ALMOST £2 million of lottery funding has been secured to breathe new life into Lurgan town centre.
The money will be used to support a five-year project to regenerate the commercial heart of the Co Armagh town and celebrate its rich built and cultural heritage.
Once a thriving market town with an architectural heritage dating back to the 17th century, today many of the historic buildings which gave the town centre its unique character have fallen into disrepair and are underused or vacant.
The new project will support the repair and conservation of 25 historic properties to provide much-needed, valuable commercial floor space as well as new residential accommodation opportunities.
A programme of 50 events and activities will help attract new visitors to the town centre to celebrate its unique heritage and revitalise the area.
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) awarded the grant to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, which will also add another £2 million in additional funds to support the scheme.
Lord Mayor Julie Flaherty said: "Heritage-led regeneration is a great way to promote civic pride and access to local places, and I welcome this scheme, along with a number of complimentary heritage activities".
Paul Mullan from the HLF said: "Thanks to National Lottery players, this heritage-led regeneration will transform Lurgan’s historic streetscape, helping to attract new residents and businesses to the town centre and boost the local economy".
