Works to commence in Rathfriland as part of £2m rural towns Environmental Improvement Scheme

Works to commence in Rathfriland as part of £2m rural towns Environmental Improvement Scheme February 25, 2026 151 Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Jessica Johnston with Elizabeth McIlwaine (DAERA), Paul McNaught (DfC) and Gareth McKenna (Northstone). Works are set to commence from mid-March in Rathfriland as part of a £2million Environmental Improvement Scheme for rural towns of Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill. The scheme, which forms part of the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme, 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. Following completion of works in Rathfriland, the programme will move to Gilford during summer 2026, with Markethill scheduled for autumn 2026, subject to weather conditions and programme progress. The Environmental Improvement Scheme will deliver a range of enhancements designed to improve the look, feel and functionality of each town while respecting their rural character. Works will include new and upgraded pavement treatments, improved lighting, enhanced shared space, street furniture, signage and decorative features, all aimed at creating a more attractive and welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors. L-R Paul Tamati (Director of Development, Community and Wellbeing, ABC Council), Nicola McEvoy (Deputy Director, DfC Southern Regional Development Office), Gareth McKenna (Northstone), Elizabeth McIlwaine (Head of Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation, DAERA), Daniel Dempster (Northstone), Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Jessica Johnston, Paul McNaught (Director, DfC Southern Regional Development Officer), Councillor Joy Ferguson, Keith Scott (ABC Council Project Officer). Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Jessica Johnston, said: “This investment represents an important step in enhancing our rural towns. Beginning works in Rathfriland this spring marks the delivery phase of a scheme that will bring long-term benefits to local communities, businesses and visitors alike. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of residents as works progress and are committed to keeping people informed throughout each phase.” The works will be delivered by appointed contractor Northstone, who will carry out construction in a phased and carefully managed manner to minimise disruption. Temporary traffic management arrangements, including lane closures and pedestrian diversions, will be in place as required. Access for residents, businesses and emergency services will be maintained throughout the works, and every effort will be made to reduce inconvenience. To support ongoing communication with the local community, Northstone has appointed a dedicated liaison, Gareth McKenna, who will act as the main point of contact for residents and businesses throughout the construction period. We invite the local community to attend a drop-in session on 11 March 2026 at Rathfriland Regeneration Community Hub, from 4pm to 7pm, to share project details in advance of works commencing. Advance notice will be provided ahead of works starting in specific locations. Further information on the rural towns small settlements scheme please visit www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/smallsettlements, updates will be provided as the scheme progresses in Rathfriland and in advance of works commencing in Gilford and Markethill. Previous article Big turnout in Lurgan for Job Fair