Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, business representatives and the PSNI have come together to reaffirm their commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting the borough’s town centres as welcoming places to live, work, shop and visit.
Representatives from across the local business community gathered today (Wednesday 17 June) along with local elected members in Portadown to demonstrate their collective support for businesses and communities following recent incidents of disorder in some areas.
This highlights the strength of partnership working across the borough and sends a clear message that local businesses remain open, resilient and ready to welcome customers.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, said:
“Our local businesses are the lifeblood of our towns and villages, creating jobs, supporting families and contributing to vibrant communities. Today’s event demonstrates our shared commitment to working together to support businesses, build confidence and showcase everything our town centres have to offer.
“We want residents and visitors to know that our town centres are open for business and remain safe, welcoming and inclusive places for everyone. By continuing to shop local and support local businesses, we can all play our part in helping our communities thrive.”
Geraldine Lawless, Chair of Portadown Chamber of Commerce, added:
“Businesses have shown tremendous resilience and determination. The strong partnership between the Council, business organisations and local traders is vital in ensuring confidence remains high and that our town centres continue to prosper.
“We are committed to working together to support local businesses, encourage footfall and ensure our town centres remain attractive, welcoming destinations for residents and visitors alike.”
District Commander for Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon, Superintendent Brendan Green, said:
“This was an extremely positive event which allowed members of the business community to raise issues and concerns around the negative impact of last week’s disorder. As we are well aware, business owners already operate within an extremely challenging financial environment and the recent disorder has caused further concern.
“Our district is diverse, vibrant, and resilient. Local businesses continue to welcome customers as normal, and our officers will deliver a visible policing presence to provide reassurance and support for everyone who lives, works, visits and invests here.”
ABC Council, business representatives and local stakeholders will continue to work closely together in the weeks and months ahead to support economic activity, promote local businesses and reinforce positive messages about the borough’s town centres.
Residents are encouraged to continue supporting local businesses and to take advantage of the wide range of retail, hospitality and services available across the borough.
