Lyons welcomes start of final phase of £2m Environmental Improvement Scheme in Markethill
Date published:
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons 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 Andrew Muir 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 Liz Kimmins 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).
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