Small Settlements
Council has secured funding in collaboration with the Department for Communities (DfC), the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) in March 2022 to undertake projects which will support the recovery and revitalisation of small settlements.
A small settlement is defined as one with a population between 1,000 to 4,999 people. (Figures from 2011 census data)
There are 13 Small Settlements within the Borough
| Waringstown | Markethill |
| Tandragee | Magheralin |
| Keady | Laurelvale/Mullavilly |
| Richhill | Aghagallon |
| Rathfriland | Bleary |
| Dollingstown | Donaghcloney |
| Gilford |
The four key strands of work include:
- Environmental Improvements within Gilford, Rathfriland and Markethill
As part of the ongoing commitment to regeneration, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council have recently appointed a Design Team to undertake the design of Rathfriland Environmental Improvement Scheme, providing high quality improvements within the Town Centres.
The Environmental Improvement Schemes aim to enhance the streetscape and offer quality design, utilising natural materials with bespoke details. The schemes seek to introduce new pavement treatments, lighting, enhanced shared space, street furniture, signage and decorative features designed to complement the towns.
- Business Support Grants for business located within small settlements
Over 82 business located within small settlements across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough are set to be revitalised through the Small Settlement business grants scheme. Business owners are availing of grants to improve the exterior façades of their properties with fresh paint and signage, as well as accessing support for more extensive internal structural work to reconfigure and transform un-used spaces into new commercial units. Find out more.
- Enhancement of street furniture e.g. Cycling infrastructure and Active travel initiatives
A consultation was completed with stakeholders to create an Active Travel Masterplan, embracing a holistic approach to movement, people and place across the Borough. Find out more.
- Borough wide market strategy
A consultation was completed with stakeholders to develop a borough-wide ‘market strategy’. (Opened 13th January 2023, closed 10th February 2023). Find out more.
Each of these projects are at various stages of delivery and if you have any queries contact the Small Settlements Team, details below.