A major renovation scheme has been launched along the River Bann towpath, which includes modernisation of the area's signage.

Large signs which now incorporate more local information will replace the old ones. They display facts and photographs of the history of the area, the types of fish that can be found there, as well as health and safety information.

This enhancement scheme was initiated by the River Bann Action Group in conjunction with Friends of the River Bann community interest group and Craigavon Borough Council's Leisure Services department.

The new signage which costs £2,000 per sign and £800 for its landscaping is part of a larger regeneration of the area which will see the towpath seats, waste bins and dog bins being upgraded.

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The project is being implemented in two phases, beginning with the walkway from Hoys Meadow to the rear of the Portadown boat club.

Noel Mitchell, Parks Manager, said: "There were about 20 to 30 different signs along the towpath which were very old and badly vandalised. They were a mis-match of different sizes, shapes and colours and in some instances the signs portrayed out of date information.

"We’ve taken these down and put up new, larger signs which give clearer information and show the range of activities within the surrounding area. The plan for the future is to extend this new range of signage further up the Bann giving the area its own unique identity."

Mr Brian Cassells, Chairperson of the action group, said: "All stakeholders in the River Bann Action Group look forward to continuing with the project through to phase two, which will see new events and further improvements taking place along the River Bann up to Moneypenny's Lockhouse.

"This area is an asset to the people of Portadown and it is the intention of the group to make a feature of the area for all to enjoy. There are upcoming events planned for later in the Spring, so why don’t you watch out for these and come down to the Bann and enjoy the atmosphere."

(PR/JM)