Communities Minister has welcomed the start of the
final phase of a £2 million Environmental Improvement Scheme for
the rural towns of Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill in Armagh.
The scheme, which is due to commence on 2nd October
2026, forms part of the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme
and is funded in collaboration with the Department for
Communities (DfC), the Department for Agriculture, Environment
and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the Department for Infrastructure
(DfI) and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
Since works began in March 2026, significant improvements have
been delivered in Rathfriland and Gilford, enhancing the
appearance and functionality of both towns. Markethill is the
final location to benefit from the investment.
The works will start at the Dolphin Takeaway and progress up Main
Street, focusing on upgrading paving, repairing kerbs, and
installing new street furniture to enhance the town centre
environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Welcoming this final phase, Minister Lyons said,
The Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme is a
great example of how DfC, DAERA and DfI have collaborated with
our partners in local councils to address long standing issues in
our smaller settlements. I am pleased to hear that the
Environmental Improvement Scheme works in Rathfriland and Gilford
are nearing completion and that the scheme is now entering into
the final phase of delivery in Markethill. This investment
reflects our shared commitment to strengthening rural towns,
supporting their long-term sustainability, and helping to ensure
they remain vibrant places to live, work and visit.
DAERA Minister said
I am delighted to see works getting underway in Markethill as the
next phase of this important Environmental Improvement Scheme
under the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration
Programme.
This investment is a good example of what can be achieved when
government departments and council work together to support rural
communities, and the improvements planned for Markethill will
enhance the village for those who live, work, and spend time
there.
By investing in schemes such as this, we are helping to build
strong, sustainable and diverse rural communities for the future.
Infrastructure Minister said:
I am delighted my Department was able to contribute to this
street works scheme in Markethill through the Small Settlements
Regeneration Programme, which will deliver improvements at street
level in the village for residents and visitors alike.
The Small Settlements Regeneration Programme has played an
important role over the last five years in delivering public
realm enhancements for pedestrians in villages across the north
to walk, wheel and cycle, which in turn is an important driver in
boosting wellbeing. This all helps to meet our Climate Change
ambitions, grow our economy, improve wellbeing, and support a
thriving region where people want to live, work, visit and
invest.
Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon,
Alderman Lavelle McIlwrath, added:
It is fantastic to see this important investment reaching its
final phase in Markethill. The Environmental Improvement Scheme
has already delivered significant enhancements in Rathfriland and
Gilford, and these final works will further improve the
appearance and accessibility of Markethill town centre.
"We appreciate the support and patience of local residents and
businesses during the construction period and look forward to
seeing the positive impact these improvements will have on the
town for many years to come."
Notes to editors:
- Funding for this project was provided though the Department
for Communities Small Settlements Regeneration Programme in
collaboration with the Department for Infrastructure, the
Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and
Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. The
funding breakdown for the EI Schemes is as follows DfC
£1,207,500, DAERA £751,000, DfI £75,000 (Total £2,033,500).
