Borough Link 2019

BOROUGHLINK ARMAGH CITY, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON BOROUGH COUNCIL

BRING A

SPLASH OF FUN

INTO YOUR

SUMMER

ACHIEVEMENTS

COUNCIL'S FIRST TERM REVIEW PAGES 6-7

RESIDENTS' MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLBEING

COMPETITION

EVENTS

PLAY FOR EVERYONE

SIX HIGH STREET VOUCHERS UP FOR GRABS

PAGES 11-12

PAGE 15

PAGES 24-26

WHAT'S ON IN THE BOROUGH

SUMMER 2019

New Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor elected New Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mealla Campbell (SDLP) took up the chain of office on 20 May 2019, with Councillor Margaret Tinsley (DUP) supporting her in the role of Deputy Lord Mayor.

Representing two historic firsts, Councillor Campbell is the first SDLP elected representative to hold the senior civic role and this is the first time that two women are at the helm of Northern Ireland’s second largest council. Involved in politics from an early age, Mealla worked in the offices of John Hume, Seamus Mallon and Bríd Rodgers; Mealla was elected to Armagh City and District Council in 2005 and served as Deputy Mayor from 2011 - 2012.

The new Lord Mayor holds a degree in history from Queen's University Belfast and a postgraduate degree in Irish history from University of Ulster. Mealla previously worked for the Education Authority in Armagh. She is married to Paul and they have three young children.

Vowing to carry on the good work of former Lord Mayor Councillor Julie Flaherty, Councillor Campbell said,

“It’s a tremendous honour and privilege to be elected Lord Mayor and I am determined to fulfil this important role to the best of my ability. My drive and passion to help people is what spurred me to become a councillor. I’m really looking forward to getting out and about, meeting residents right across the borough, finding out about their projects and learning about what’s important to them, and doing all I can to represent all citizens.”

Armagh office The Palace Demesne, Armagh BT60 4EL T: 028 3752 9600 Banbridge office Civic Building, Downshire Road, Banbridge BT32 3JY T: 028 4066 0600 Craigavon office Craigavon Civic & Conference Centre, Lakeview Road, Craigavon BT64 1AL T: 028 3831 2400

FIND US ONLINE: armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk armaghbanbridgecraigavon @abcb_council

04 08 15

Borough Link is produced by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and delivered to local households. No article or photograph in this magazine can be reproduced without the consent of the editor. © Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

This magazine can be provided in alternative formats upon request.

Borough Link is printed on FSC® certified paper.

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BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

18

Hello and welcome!

Can you believe it has been a full year since our last edition? Well we can’t either!

Things have been busy as usual here as we continue to drive forward ongoing and planned projects, deliver high quality services and let’s not forget the hard work that went into the local government elections, which resulted in many new and returning councillors take up their seat for our second term, so we certainly have a lot to tell you about!

We’re sure you’re feeling it too, with end of school terms, exam periods and holidays, it can be a busy time for everyone! So grab a cuppa, sit back and take a break with your latest edition of Borough Link.

Reflection is an important aspect for us, (see our first term highlights on pages 6 to 7), and it is highly vivid with our heritage-led regeneration projects, where we place great emphasis, appreciation and protection on our built and cultural heritage. Learn more about what’s happening in Lurgan and Armagh on page 18.

We understand everyone has a collective responsibility to ensure the future sustainability of our environment. With a drive to reduce our plastic footprint growing in ever more prominence, you can find out what council is doing and pick up some tips on how you can reduce your plastic usage on page 8.

We live in a rapidly changing society, with many new and conflicting pressures, so there is no better time for us to take care of our physical and mental health.

06-07 11-12

Make sure to flick to our health and wellbeing section (pages 10 to 15) for the latest on our £35 million South Lake Leisure Centre project as well as exciting updates on our Play Strategy, Gosford Forest Park, inclusive programmes like Get Out Get Active and much more.

Turn to page pages 16 to 17 to read up on our new Growth/ City Deal and ongoing business support programmes, highlighting our continued commitment to supporting the local economy.

You’ll also notice our competition on page 15, with six £50 high street vouchers up for grabs, it’s not to be missed!

Don’t forget to head to the ‘what’s on' guide on pages 24 to 26, with so many exciting events and exhibitions taking place across the borough there will be plenty to see and do for everyone!

CONTENTS 04

Game of Thrones studio tour

06-07

First term review

08

Reducing our plastic footprint

10

South Lake Leisure Centre

11-12

Play for everyone

15 Competition

24-26

16-17

Business brief

18

Heritage-led projects

20 Community plan in action 22-23

Contact your councillor

24-26

‘What’s on’ guide

27 Directory BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

3

Game of Thrones studio

Studio tour to boost tourism potential

We launched ambitious plans to bolster the borough’s standing as a market-leading heritage and cultural international tourism destination in 2017 as part of a five-year blueprint designed to attract more visitors and increase tourism spend.

At our tourism conference in Banbridge this year, Andrew Webb, Managing Director of Linen Mill Studios, revealed the company’s ambitions to open a new Game of Thrones studio tour in collaboration with HBO next year.

Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge is the original 110,000-square-foot filming location used for many iconic scenes in Winterfell, Castle Black and several sea battles throughout the run of the series.

The tour, which is a similar idea to the Harry Potter studio tour outside London, is expected to bring thousands of international visitors face-to-face with original set pieces, costumes, props, and weapons used to create the worlds of Westeros and Essos.

© Photo by Benjamin Skinstad, available under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported

Museum visitor experiences Craigavon Museum Services recently organised ‘Anne Acheson: A Sculptor in War and Peace’.

The exhibition was the first to bring together the surviving sculptures, paintings and sketches of Portadown-born sculptor Anne Acheson CBE (1882-1962) who invented Plaster of Paris splints as a volunteer during the First World War. One of the exhibition’s key sculptures ‘December’ (c.1929) was purchased and transported from America thanks to funding from The Art Fund and Northern Ireland Museums Council.

Meanwhile Armagh County Museum has successfully secured funding from the Department for Communities to improve access to arts and cultural activities for people with disabilities.

Visually impaired visitors can now independently explore and engage with the museum’s displays.

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BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Shared history project

Royal visit As part of His Royal Highness' two-day visit to Northern Ireland in May, The Prince of Wales visited the beautiful Palace Demesne in Armagh, Lurgan Park and Brownlow House, Lurgan.

Greeted by Ulster and Ireland rugby star Rory Best OBE and Manager of Armagh GAA Kieran McGeeney at the Palace, His Royal Highness then enjoyed magnificent Gaelic Football and Rugby skills during a game of two halves showcased by pupils from St Patrick's Grammar School, Armagh and The Royal School, Armagh. His Royal Highness then met with representatives from a range of local groups including Armagh GAA and City of Armagh Rugby Club as well as representatives from a number of local cultural organisations, including Home of the Penalty Kick in Milford, the John Hewitt Summer School and Armagh Observatory and Planetarium.

Esteemed piper Derek Mack then warmly welcomed His Royal Highness to Brownlow House, ahead of the recent UK Pipe Band Championships in Lurgan Park.

Enjoying an extensive tour of this historic building, Prince Charles met with beneficiaries of the PEACE IV programme, including representatives from a range of local community groups, charities and voluntary organisations.

His Royal Highness also met with those directly involved in the Townscape Heritage Project, which is helping to preserve and protect Lurgan’s rich built and cultural heritage. There was also an opportunity to meet with representatives from The Friends of Brownlow House and the Ulster Scots Network to learn more about the unique history of Brownlow House.

We are continuing to deliver the £5.1 million PEACE IV programme by supporting a range of projects across the borough including sports, community and good relations.

The Polish community is the largest minority ethnic group in our borough, so we provided a shared history educational programme ‘For Your Freedom and Ours’ to introduce historical links between the Northern Irish and Polish communities. The project mainly focuses on Polish Airmen who fought in the Battle of Britain during the Second World War. It demonstrates how historical events combined with a modern learning approach helps communities gain a wider understanding of shared history and to celebrate positive relations between communities.

As part of the project, award-winning biographer Clare Mulley delivered an enthralling lecture on Britain’s first female spy, Krystyna Skarbek.

Participants visited NI War Memorials including the Polish Air Force Memorial in Newtownards, and went on a study visit to Lublin, Poland and met with the Polish/Jewish community, Polish Protestant community, Ukrainian community and visited the German death camp Majdanek that was based in Lublin during the Second World War. The Uprising Museum in Warsaw also featured during the study visit.

The next course is due to start in autumn 2019 and applications will open soon.

An outstanding joint choir performance and unique Irish and Ulster Scots dance showcase, prepared and delivered by students of St Ronan’s College and Lurgan Junior High School brought his visit to an inspiring close.

BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

5

Looking back on our first term As a highly ambitious, dynamic and progressive local authority, we strive to deliver outstanding public services, achieve operational excellence and unlock the potential of our borough for the benefit of all people who live, work or visit here.

With our first term as ABC Council now complete, there is no better time to take a look at some of our key achievements from 2015 to 2019. Now as we begin our second council term, we are committed to do all we can to ensure we achieve ‘a healthy, happy and connected community, a vibrant and sustainable economy and appealing places for living, working and learning’. With many more projects in the pipeline, it’s an exciting time to be part of the ABC community.

Best Food Story & Roots to Market

at NI Food and Drink Awards 2017

Purple Flag

accreditation for Armagh City

Banbridge’s Linen Mill Film and Television Studios chosen

by HBO to become the official location of the formal studio tour for the Game of Thrones Legacy Project

Portadown

named Champion High Street at the 2018 Great British High Street awards

£5.1m PEACE IV funding

secured for the local community

£3.9m SOAR ABC

grants awarded, supporting 90 projects and creating 67 new full-time and 3 part-time jobs

ACHIEVED

FAIRTRADE

STATUS IN 2017

4* tourism visitor NI rating for F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio and Armagh City Youth Hostel

Portadown People’s Park wins ‘Community Benefit’ and ‘Regeneration’ categories at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors regional awards

£4.75m

Play Strategy launched

to deliver a total of 44 upgraded play facilities over next 5 years

Freedom o

bestowed up greatest am and Dr Rory

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BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Armagh voted fourth Top Foodie Destination in Ireland

First council

by the Restaurants Association of Ireland in 2018

4 5

to become a corporate member of the NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry

£2.4m

investment secured

from the UK government to help drive up broadband speeds and increase digital connectivity in 2018

77 Food and drink producers 160

town centre task forces

from the region scooped

prestigious Great Taste Stars and Irish Food Awards

established to address town centre sustainability

Food Heartland of NI brand established,

year Tourism Strategy launched

bringing together over 250 local food production and hospitality businesses

Growth/City Deal

Supported

launched in partnership with Mid Ulster District Council and Fermanagh & Omagh District Council to boost economic growth

£4m+ awarded

local businesses

explore new business opportunities outside NI

£300,000

£8m

to 1,900 community-led projects

£2.68m

Portadown Linkages scheme

84

restoration of Portadown’s historic Pump House - now a riverside café

NI Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 launched

£13m

heritage led regeneration projects for Armagh City and Lurgan for up to 45 iconic historic buildings

improves key streets and main access routes to the town centre

Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre

achieves Customer Service Excellence Standard and highly commended in the ‘Customer Service Excellence’ category at Tourism NI Awards

Three NI Local Government Awards secured in 2017

Tannaghmore Gardens and Rare Breeds Animal Farm

Armagh Georgian Festival

wins Most Promising Authentic NI Tourism Event Award at the NI Tourism Awards

New flagship

£35m South Lake

Leisure Centre gets the go-ahead

of the Borough

pon two of the borough’s mbassadors, Ronnie McFall MBE Best OBE

£1.35m INVESTED

in Gosford Forest Park

trails and iconic play

Preferred Options Paper first formal stage of the Local Development Plan

becomes the only animal farm on the island of Ireland to be granted ‘Farm Park’ status by Rare Breeds Survival Trust

37

Green Flags awarded

to our parks and green spaces

launched in 2018, setting out social, economic and environmental goals

£250,000 urban sports facility opened in Solitude Park, Banbridge

'Connected’ Community Plan 2017-2030 launched with our statutory partners and the community and voluntary sector to improve residents’ quality of life BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

7

REDUCING OUR

Did you know that just about every piece of plastic ever made is still around somewhere today?

And according to recent research, by 2050 there will be more plastic in the sea than fish by weight, a frightening prospect that may seem irreversible but we can all make small changes now to make a real difference.

6 TIPS

1 4 8

FOOTPRINT

What is ‘single-use plastic’?

Single-use plastics are plastics that are only used once and thrown away - what a waste! Plastic is a truly extraordinary substance with many useful applications but it doesn’t make sense to use it once and throw it away, when it is so long-lived and harmful in the wrong environment.

Why refuse single-use plastic?

• It's made from finite fossil fuels such as oil and coal.

• Causes litter in streets, hedges, lakes and beaches.

• Can harm wildlife from entanglement and also animals who may swallow it.

• Can get into our food chain through tiny micro plastics and what we eat.

Check out our top tips on how to move away from single-use plastics.

FOR LIVING WITH LESS PLASTIC

Refill a reusable water bottle

2

Bring a reusable coffee cup

Buy wooden or metal cutlery

5

Use bars of soap instead of liquid soap

BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

What can we do?

We understand we all have a collective responsibility to reduce our plastic footprint. That's why we are working to reduce the impact of single-use plastics used across our services. We are now implementing sustainable procurement, encouraging waste reduction, education and using alternative products.

3 6

Use paper straws instead of plastic

Try reusable food wraps

A friendly way to tackle dog fouling issues within your community - sign the pledge for you and your pal!

The Green Dog Walkers scheme is a UK wide community-based campaign to change attitudes about dog fouling. We have been promoting this scheme across the borough as another innovative approach to dog fouling and to encourage responsible dog ownership.

Dog owners and dog walkers can support the scheme by signing a pledge to clean up after their pets. Anyone who signs up to the pledge receives a green collar for their perfect pooch. If you see a dog wearing the ‘Green Dog Walkers’ collar, this means the owner has taken the pledge to: • Always clean up after their dog.

• Carry extra doggie bags.

• Gladly give you a bag for your dog - just ask!

Anyone of a dog wh in charge o after them w fails to clean up ill be issued with a

For more information and to receive your welcome pack and pledge, which includes a green armband, dog bone, bag dispenser, doggie bags and clip on hand sanitiser, please call 0300 0300 900.

Fixed Penal Notice of £8ty 0

Report incidents of dog fouling on 0300 0300 900 or email ehealth@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Holiday arrangements Kerbside box collections Bin collections Normal collection day Fri 12 Jul 19 Mon 15 Jul 19 Mon 26 Aug 19 Tues 24 Dec 19 Wed 25 Dec 19 Thurs 26 Dec 19 Wed 1 Jan 20

Holiday collection Sat 6 Jul 19 Normal collection Normal collection Normal collection Sat 21 Dec 19 Sat 28 Dec 19 Sat 4 Jan 20

Tell us how we are doing

Normal collection day Fri 12 Jul 19 Mon 15 Jul 19 Mon 26 Aug 19 Tues 24 Dec 19 Wed 25 Dec 19 Thurs 26 Dec 19 Wed 1 Jan 20

Recycling centres Holiday collection Sat 13 Jul 19 Normal collection Normal collection Normal collection Sat 28 Dec 19 No collection Sat 4 Jan 20

Normal collection day Fri 12 Jul 19 Sat 13 Jul 19 Mon 15 July 19

Holiday collection Closed Closed Open

(Closed - Tandragee, Markethill & Keady)

Mon 26 Aug 19 Tues 24 Dec 19 Wed 25 Dec 19 Thurs 26 Dec 19 Wed 1 Jan 20

Closed Open Closed Closed Closed

You can view holiday arrangements for bin, kerbside box collections and recycling centres all year round on the Bin-Ovation app or by visiting

armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/resident/holiday-collections

We aim to provide high quality services to you, our customer, and it is important for our continuous improvement that we hear how we are performing. Help shape our services by letting us know your thoughts and experiences. e: info@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk | t: 0300 0300 900 armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/compliments-suggestions BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

9

New flagship £35m leisure centre

on target for summer 2020 completion

Craigavon’s brand new South Lake Leisure Centre, the largest capital project ever undertaken in the borough, is on target to be finished by summer 2020.

The construction phase is expected to create 500+ jobs and deliver £6.5 million in direct wages to the local economy.

The new purpose-built facility will feature an eight-lane 50-metre swimming pool, teaching pool, children's fun pool, the largest gym in Ireland (around 1,000m2), an eight-court sports hall, a range of studios including a dedicated spin room and dance studios, four activity rooms for parties and other functions, two squash courts, an open hub space with café and soft play area, and a health and beauty suite as well as an extensive outdoor water sports centre.

Access for people with disabilities and the less mobile has been a key priority in the design and council is seeking Inclusive Sports Facility accreditation through Disability Sport Northern Ireland.

For more information visit getactiveabc.com/south-lake-leisure-centre 10 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Construction will soon be underway for a unique outdoor adventure experience at Gosford Forest Park, a first of its kind for the island of Ireland.

Located outside Markethill in County Armagh and at 240-hectares, the Gosford Forest Park estate features miles of paths and trails around the beautiful woodland and open park spaces.

The new outdoor adventure play experience will showcase five iconic play structures linked by a 2km woodland play trail. Taking on board feedback from local people, schools and families the exciting design plans will be a reality by 2020.

The new play experience will satisfy a growing demand for more child-centred experiences in the NI tourism market and will establish Gosford Forest Park on an unprecedented scale in Ireland, offering maximum play value, inclusivity and challenge for children of mulitple age ranges. With exciting times ahead for Gosford, a wider development plan will be implemented, which will include the creation of a new visitor centre, enhanced car parking and other visitor facilities.

Working in partnership with Outdoor Recreation NI, Doran Consulting Ltd and Gerald Davies Ltd, Gosford Adventure Play Trail is being developed thanks to a £500,000 grant received from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) under the the Rural Tourism Scheme of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014-2020 and a £350,000 contribution from council.

Did you know?

From the start of this year we took on responsibility for the management of recreation at Gosford Forest Park.

With this change a new pricing structure is now in place, including a reduced cost for the annual parking pass and daily entrance cost of £5.

Annual pass prices • Car - £25 (down from £50!)

• Minibus - £50 • Coach - £55 • Horsebox - £55 • Gold pass (Gosford and Loughgall Country Park) - £33 Annual pass prices (concessionary) • Car - £16.50 • Gold pass (Gosford and Loughgall Country Park) - £21.40

To purchase your annual pass please visit

getactiveabc.com/gosford For all queries please call 028 3755 1277 or email gosfordforest@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 11

PLAY

for everyone We believe everyone has a right to play. A natural and fundamental aspect of children and young people’s lives, it supports learning, enhances health and wellbeing and encourages development of self-confidence, enabling children and young people to make sense of the world around them.

Based on this belief and the acknowledgement that play should be part of the everyday life and experiences of children and young people, we launched our Play Strategy last October.

Since its launch, over £1 million has been invested into the delivery of 11 newly refurbished play parks across the borough including, Drumilly Green, Brownstown Park, Killicomaine Community Centre, Kinnego Marina, Dollingstown, Poyntzpass P.S., Magheralin, Loughbrickland, Maghery, Donacloney and Waringstown.

But it doesn’t stop there, with another 33 play parks earmarked for upgrade over the next five years, the borough is set to be a centre for high quality, fully inclusive, safe and accessible play facilities.

With an emphasis on extensive consultation, each play park renovation involves input from schools and local communities, so a challenging and stimulating outdoor play experience is on offer for all.

12 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

What’s next Following £250,000 investment, the play park at the much loved Tannaghmore Gardens and Rare Breed Animal Farm is next to benefit from an upgrade.

Due to open this summer, the new play park will be tailored for specific age groups with areas for young children and toddlers, as well as more challenging play equipment, such as a zip line for older children including teenagers. In addition, this inclusive play area has been designed for children of all abilities, with sensory play panels and a fantastic wheelchair accessible in-ground trampoline.

With play park renovations planned for Lurgan Park, Dromore and Markethill, there will be plenty of fun in store for everyone!

For further information on our Play Strategy, please visit getactiveabc.com/homepage/play-development or call 028 3831 1684.

RURAL VILLAGE RENEWAL SCHEME Local action group, SOAR ABC is continuing to support the borough’s rural communities by delivering the NI Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.

Everyone has mental health just the same way everyone has physical health and with one in four of us expected to experience a mental health issue at some point in our lives, it is important we all try and look after our wellbeing.

Talking to a friend, family member, your GP or someone you trust can really help, what’s more we can also try to build these five steps into our everyday lives.

Connect The Rural Village Renewal Scheme (RVR Scheme), supports the implementation of local village plans, seeing nearly £800,000 invested so far. At the heart of the scheme is the commitment to help residents enjoy long, healthy and active lives.

See how the scheme is transforming our rural communities: Bleary With £250,000 investment, the scheme is helping address the needs of young people in Bleary and enhance their quality of life. Highlighting the important role ‘play’ has in learning and development, the funding saw the development of a play park, multiuse games area and nature reserve beside Bleary Business & Community Centre. With the additional provision of a pedestrian crossing and lighting, this is really helping create a central and accessible hub for all the community.

Laurelvale Delivering a community play park that offers an enriching and varied play experience for all children, was the focus of Laurelvale’s RVR Scheme. With nearly £70,000 funding, its existing play facility saw an extensive upgrade and expansion, including the installation of a wider range of inclusive play equipment. There was also the development of a wider footpath, timber adventure trail, seating, bins, picnic benches and soft landscape works.

Find out more about the RVR Scheme and the NI Rural Development Programme by visiting soarni.org

Connect with the people around you: family, friends, colleagues and neighbours at home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these relationships as the cornerstones of your life and spend time developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.

Be active

Go for a walk or run, cycle, play a game, garden or dance. Exercising makes you feel good. Most importantly, discover a physical activity that you enjoy; one that suits your level of mobility and fitness.

Take notice

Stop, pause, or take a moment to look around you.

What can you see, feel, smell or even taste? Look for beautiful, new, unusual or extraordinary things in your everyday life and think about how that makes you feel.

Keep learning

Don’t be afraid to try something new, rediscover an old hobby or sign up for a course. Take on a different responsibility, fix a bike, learn to play an instrument or how to cook your favourite food. Set a challenge you will enjoy. Learning new things will make you more confident, as well as being fun to do.

Give

Do something nice for a friend or stranger, thank someone, smile, volunteer your time or consider joining a community group. Look out as well as in. Seeing yourself and your happiness linked to the wider community can be incredibly rewarding and will create connections with the people around you.

Did you know? Our Community Plan Healthy Community Action Planning Team is working with local residents to recruit and train volunteer ambassadors to deliver the Take 5 message. If you’d like to get involved contact Deirdre.

McParland@southerntrust.hscni.net. For services that offer help and advice visit mindingyourhead.info/services For more information on Community Plan, please visit armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/resident/community-planning For more information on getting active visit getactiveabc.com BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 13

It’s a ‘waterful’ life!

It’s great to see our little ones learn new skills and get more active and our latest programme, Swim Stars, has helped fulfil this!

Funded by the Health and Social Care Board and delivered by ‘Everybody Active 2020’ coaches, Swim Stars saw 15 children and young people with cerebral palsy access 10 one-to-one swimming lessons, helping boost their confidence, fitness and social skills.

Aged between three and 12, the fledgling swimmers received tuition from qualified and experienced instructors in five of our pools.

The sessions aimed to develop the children’s skills so that in the future, they can join mainstream lessons or attend small ability-specific group lessons, ultimately aiming for long term enjoyment of swimming!

Since the programme, nine children continue to swim regularly and five have taken up a new activity, including horse riding, boccia, football and wheelchair exercise!

Well done and keep it up guys!

“It has been a brilliant experience… and the benefits have been life changing.”

For more information on this programme and future intakes visit getactiveabc.com

Get Out Get Active (GOGA), an exciting and fun-filled programme encourages less active people of all ages and abilities across the borough to come together and increase their participation in sport and physical activity.

Working in partnership with Live Active NI, we are one of only two councils in Northern Ireland and one of only 18 in the UK to be chosen to be part of GOGA, which has been funded by the London Olympics legacy charity ‘Spirit of 2012’ as part of a £4.5 million investment stimulus. Seeing over 1,200 people involved to date, the programme gives disabled and non-disabled people the opportunity to be active together, stay active in the long term and change attitudes through its inclusive delivery.

With a wealth of activities to choose from including, sensory walks, Nordic walks, wheelie active club, Tai Chi and buggy fit, there’s something for everyone.

For more information and to get involved visit getactiveabc.com

14 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

WIN! £50 high street voucher!

Look Good

Feel Better There’s no doubt when you look good you feel better and for those undergoing cancer treatment struggling to cope with the physical side-effects, there is no better time to benefit from this feel-good factor.

We love our high streets! They’re the life and soul of our communities, crucial to creating jobs, nurturing small businesses and driving our local economy!

We’ve teamed up with Southern Health and Social Care Trust and the Look Good Feel Better Charity to support a series of skincare and make-up workshops.

Nevertheless, it’s not been an easy time for our beloved high streets, with greater economic uncertainty and rapidly changing consumer behaviour, our high streets are required to be more adaptable, resilient and creative! Now is no better time for all of us to get behind our local high streets!

The free two-hour confidence boosting workshops, initially designed for women undergoing cancer treatment, take place monthly at the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre.

To show our support we’re giving away six £50 vouchers for a shop of your choice from your local high street. So to be in with a chance of winning, please answer the below question,

The sessions see trained volunteer beauty therapists and make-up artists demonstrate and explain useful skills and techniques to manage the side-effects of cancer treatment. With participants getting the chance to meet others in a similar situation as well as getting a goody bag of premium beauty products, completely free of charge, the group sessions help people face cancer with confidence!

Q. If you won a £50 gift voucher for a shop on your local high street, where would you spend it and why?

“I feel more confident applying my makeup now after receiving some very helpful tips from the volunteers who were very pleasant, helpful and welcoming. The beauty gifts I received are great. Thank you so much!”

Did you know? All ‘Move More’ participants will see a referral to these workshops.

To find out more contact Mary Haughey, Macmillan Cancer Service Improvement Lead on 07717 511 470 or mary.haughey@southerntrust.hscni.net

Sponsor Farrans Construction, lead contractor for council’s new state-of-the-art £35 million leisure centre in Craigavon.

Closing date for entries 31 July 2019 Email entries competition@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk Postal entries Please return to, BOROUGH LINK COMPETITION FREEPOST BE2081 CRAIGAVON CO. ARMAGH BT64 1BR (No stamp required) Terms and conditions Only one entry per person. Entrants must be aged 16 and over and reside within the borough. Council employees cannot enter. No cash or alternative prize will be offered. The personal information you provide on the entry form will only be used to respond to you about this competition.

BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 15

YOUR

VIEWS COUNT!

We hope you’ve found this edition of Borough Link enjoyable and we would love to hear your comments and feedback.

What do you think about this issue?

Growing our city and town centres Last year you may recall we established four town centre task forces to drive a joined-up, targeted and robust approach to the continuous regeneration of our city and towns.

Made up of representatives from council, the business community and central government, their co-ordinated efforts have acted as the impetus to deliver a series of masterclasses, focusing on improving the competitiveness, attractiveness and vitality of our town centre businesses.

Funded by the Department for Communities, over one hundred local businesses have taken advantage of these ‘inspiring and informative’ masterclasses. From a range of different retail backgrounds, the seminars saw successful practitioners offer expert guidance and advice on growing sales, by focusing on excellent customer experiences and digital marketing strategies.

What stories, features and information would you like to see more in future issues?

Complementing the masterclasses, our evening and night-time economy support programme saw local hospitality businesses benefit from specialist one-to-one mentoring and guidance.

The programme saw invaluable support offered on new product development, digital marketing, strategic business growth and the delivery of bespoke staff training.

With many more programmes in the pipeline, keep up to date by contacting the Regeneration department on 0300 0300 900.

Please return to, BOROUGH LINK FEEDBACK FREEPOST BE2081 CRAIGAVON CO. ARMAGH BT64 1BR (No stamp required) Alternatively you can email your feedback to communications@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Thank you!

16 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Council leading on regional Growth/City Deal Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, and Mid Ulster District Council are working together to develop a proposition for a Growth/City Deal to boost economic growth and deliver a step change in the fortunes of all three council areas.

A bespoke deal for the region would see the three councils, which represent one-quarter of Northern Ireland’s population, working together to develop a strategic economic plan focused on improving productivity; creating more and better jobs; addressing economic infrastructure; growing investment; supporting business innovation; and improving skills. The deal will help grow an already strong economy. Collectively the region is home to one-third of all Northern Ireland’s businesses, which provide over 200,000 jobs, three-quarters of which are in the private sector, a higher proportion than the UK average, and offer support to the already strong sectors including agri-food, engineering, construction, tourism and, crucially, advanced manufacturing.

Three neighbouring councils with shared expertise in manufacturing, among other key industries, are working on a Growth/City Deal to boost economic growth.

Pictured L-R: Mid Ulster District Council Chief Executive Anthony Tohill, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council Chief Executive Brendan Hegarty, and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Chief Executive Roger Wilson.

Together we can make joined-up plans to improve infrastructure, such as roads and broadband, which will help our advanced manufacturers in their daily processes and together we can pitch for international investment.

The end result will be three council areas which have all the components in place to allow advanced manufacturing companies to flourish in a global market.

Building connections

Save the Date CONNECTING DIGITALLY – LINKEDIN ESSENTIALS

Thurs 5 Sept | 8.00am - 10.00am

Once again we will be hosting a series of inspirational and engaging business-focused networking events aimed at the entrepreneur right up to the large corporate company based in the borough.

Covering a range of topical and thoughtprovoking issues, the invaluable and interactive breakfast events are a must for growing contacts, building skills and knowledge sharing.

Craigavon Civic and Conference Centre

BELIEVE TO ACHIEVE

Tues 8 Oct | 8.00am - 10.00am Armagh Palace

AN ENTREPRENEUR’S JOURNEY Thur 21 Nov | 8.00am - 10.00am Banbridge Town Hall

To register your interest for any of the events please email connect@ndevents.co.uk

BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 17

Reclaiming our heritage

Riverfront Over the next five years Armagh City and Lurgan will benefit from a total investment of £13 million to preserve and protect their rich built and cultural heritage.

Breathing new life into these historic centres and strengthening the knowledge and appreciation of local history, the ambitious schemes will see the regeneration of 45 heritage buildings and the delivery of a series of community-led events.

Past to present Built in the 18th century by Dean Averell, number 43 Upper English Street, known locally as the ‘Seven Sisters’ is set to be brought back to its former glory. Damaged by fire in December 1955, the beautiful Georgian building will now be rebuilt to showcase its significant architectural merit and important historical associations.

The scheme has also seen educational activities take place such as a 3D sketch project, a postcard exhibition in Armagh County Museum and a weeklong AE Russell festival in Lurgan as well as a consultation on potential new uses for urban backlands led by Queen’s University Belfast.

With a rich and varied heritage woven into the fabric of our borough, we are dedicated to exploring more opportunities across our towns and villages.

We are investing over £4 million of funding in these schemes in addition to £4 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund (formerly Heritage Lottery Fund) alongside other public and private funding. © Images Armagh County Museum collection

18 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

revitalisation Building on our public realm improvements and investment at the Old Town Quay and the Pump House in Portadown, we are progressing our regeneration along the River Bann.

Supported by the Department for Communities, the project will see resurfacing, landscaping, signage, lighting, street furniture, enhanced boundary treatments, additional tourism and events infrastructure as well as the development of new play facilities.

This significant investment will help reposition the River Bann as a key feature of Portadown. Following a first phase of work between Old Town Quay and the Pump House, the remainder of the scheme will be delivered by 2021.

With significant bodies of water in a number of our towns, we are actively considering further opportunities to rejuvenate these areas, such as improving accessibility and creating new development opportunities along the River Bann in Banbridge.

For more information contact the Regeneration team on 0300 0300 900.

Houses in multiple occupation Landlords across the borough should note that from 1 April 2019 they must hold a valid licence for any House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), which they own that is rented to three or more people from different families.

Planning for the future Last year we launched our Preferred Options Paper, the first formal stage of preparing our new Local Development Plan (LDP), which strives to make our borough a place of choice to live, work and visit; with a vibrant and sustainable economy; and a healthy and connected community.

Alongside residents, we are continuing to prepare a draft Strategy Plan, which we are hoping to adopt by 2021.

Support sustainable economic growth With more supportive policies and highlighting lands for development, the LDP will encourage new and existing investment and economic growth. Last year our Planning department processed nine major planning applications representing around ÂŁ60 million of inward investment and 860 new jobs in the borough.

Landlords will be required to provide homes that are safe, good quality and have facilities suitable for the number of tenants. This licensing requirement was implemented through The Houses in Multiple Occupation Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.

This new law provides powers for councils to regulate shared properties. Landlords must have a range of policies in place (such as an anti-social behaviour plan) to help deal with any issues which arise from the property.

A licence can be revoked or enforcement action taken if a landlord or agent does not comply with the terms and conditions of a licence. A licence may also be refused if there is overprovision in an area or the landlord is not deemed fit. A licence can be applied for either online, by post, or in person. The cost of application will depend on the number of people living in the property.

The administration and implementation of the Act is managed regionally by the NI HMO Unit, who are based at Belfast City Council.

For any enquiries, please contact NI HMO Unit, Belfast City Council on 028 9027 0414, nihmo@belfastcity.gov.uk or belfastcity.gov.uk/nihmo

If you rent a property to three people or more from

Improve health and wellbeing The LDP will encourage healthier lifestyle choices by promoting active travel and better integration between housing, employment and services. Already seen with recent planning approvals at Scarva Park and football pitch, and the existing sports pitch in Tannaghmore Gardens.

must have a licence from your local council.

Managing and protecting our environment With new and improved policies, the LDP will enhance biodiversity, build upon safeguards against water pollution, flooding and reduce greenhouse gases.

Continuing this support, this year the Planning team has assisted the waste management industry, supporting the reduction in landfill and waste minimisation.

For more information on Planning and our LDP visit armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

To apply or to check if your home has a licence, visit your local council’s website or This scheme is managed by Belfast City Council on behalf of all NI councils.

www.belfastcity.gov.uk/nihmo BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 19

Community plan in action

APPLY ONLINE

Since the launch of ‘Connected’, our first ever Community Plan, we continue to work with other statutory agencies, community and business partners to deliver our aspirations and improve the quality of life for everyone in the borough.

The plan brings together multi-agency groups to collaboratively foster a confident, healthy and welcoming community; a creative place; and a skilled, enterprising and tourist-led economy. However, as the old adage goes, actions speak louder than words, so let us take a look at how one of the groups has been getting on.

Dog Licence | Building Notices Building Regularisations Register at

council.direct

Healthy community Chaired by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, the Healthy Community team aims to help residents make more positive lifestyle choices, be more resilient and better equipped to cope with life’s challenges.

Recently launching Community of Lifesavers, this initiative will promote cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillation (AED) training across the borough and will encourage organisations to list their AED with the NI Ambulance Service. With more people trained to administer CPR and to use the AEDs, the aim of this project is to strengthen the chain of survival and save lives.

If you have a static AED (i.e. permanently at one location), please visit nias.hscni.net/our-services/ aed to register your device with the NI Ambulance Service.

To learn more about Community of Lifesavers or to get involved, please email stephanie.leckey@nias. hscni.net 20 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Registration of births, still births, deaths, marriages and civil partnerships

Introduction of appointment based Registration Service at Craigavon Civic & Conference Centre At Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council we are continually striving to improve our services.

For your convenience the Craigavon Registration Service now operates an appointment only based service.

To book an appointment please call 028 3831 2440 or 028 3831 2441 Our Registration offices in Armagh and Banbridge already provide an appointment based service. You can book an appointment at one of these offices by calling: Armagh Registration office: 028 3752 9615 Banbridge Registration office: 028 4066 0614

armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

Each year we carry out an intensive detailed review of our budgets and corporate priorities for the year ahead, ensuring that the agreed rate reflects significant investments and our commitment to deliver high quality services to local ratepayers.

A

Health

Leisure, parks and open spaces

Education

Bin collections Social services

YOUR TOTAL RATES BILL

Rate Rebate?

Tenants and homeowners who receive Universal Credit are being urged to check their eligibility for the new Rate Rebate scheme.

The scheme is being administered by Land & Property Services, part of the Department of Finance and entitles ratepayers in receipt of Universal Credit to a rebate on their rates. It is being rolled out in conjunction with Universal Credit across Northern Ireland.

Economic Development

DIS T

Entitled to a

Community services

Tourism, arts and culture

Infrastructure

Justice

Call Land & Property Services Rate Collection on 0300 200 7801 or visit nidirect.gov.uk/rates

Building Control and Planning

RI C TR

Your rates bill Rates bills are made up of two parts, the district rate, which pays for council services and the regional rate that pays for services provided by central government.

N IO

ATE R L

E AT

We have agreed a below inflation district rate increase of 1.96% for 2019-2020, meaning householders across the borough will be paying, on average, an extra 74p per month.

RE G

Lower district rate agreed

To apply for Rate Rebate, the tenant or homeowner must be of working age, in receipt of Universal Credit and live in the property. Tenants or homeowners can only make a claim for Rate Rebate once they are awarded Universal Credit and any claim should be made as soon as possible following their first payment of Universal Credit.

Claims should be made within three months to ensure no partial loss of any subsequent award. For anyone who has not yet received Universal Credit or for those who are not eligible to receive it (such as pensioners) rates support will continue through Housing Benefit.

To apply visit nidirect.gov.uk/rate-rebate-scheme For help with the online application process contact Land & Property Services on 0300 200 7802.

Are you receiving Universal Credit?

You may be eligible for Rate Rebate

BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 21

CONTACT YOUR COUNCILLORS

BANB

ARMAGH DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREA

Banbridge

Blackwatertown, Cathedral, Demesne, Keady, Navan, The Mall Lord Mayor

Mealla Campbell SDLP 07729 220 040

Alderm

Jackie Donnelly SF 07599 992 825

Garath Keating SF 07809 288 049

Darren McNally SF 07851 630 292

Sam Nicholson UUP 07713 074 776

Hamiltonsbawn, Markethill, Rich Alderman

Deputy Lord Mayor

Declan McAlinden SDLP 07760 231 410

Catherine Nelson SF 07720 949 553

Margaret Tinsley DUP 07990 501 568

Glenn Barr UUP 07713 391

CUSHER DISTRI

CRAIGAVON DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREA

Bleary, Brownlow, Craigavon Centre, Derrytrasna, Kernan

Thomas Larkham SDLP 07874 793 144

Thomas O’Hanlon SDLP 07743 930 427

Kenneth Twyble UUP 07780 961 697

LAGAN RIVER DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREA

Donaghcloney, Dromore, Gransha, Quilly, Waringstown

Paul Berry IND 07889 731 911

Bróna Hau SF 07902 10

LURGAN DISTRI

Aghagallon, Knocknashane, Lou

Alderman

Mark Baxter DUP 07833 196 996

Tim McCelland DUP 07874 794 265

Paul Rankin DUP 07714 835 878

Kyle Savage UUP 07742 401 132

Eóin Tennyson APNI 07742 401 127

Keith Haughian SF 07590 264 227

PORTADOWN DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREA

Ballybay, Corcrain, Killycomain, Loughgall, Mahon, The Birches Alderman

Sydney Anderson DUP 07751 374 182

22 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Darryn Causby DUP 07742 401 129

Paul Duffy SF 07593 382 367

Julie Flaherty UUP 07710 562 611

Lavelle McIlwrath DUP 07827 284787

Eamon McNeill SDLP 07704 436 768

Peter Lav APNI 07742 40

BRIDGE DISTRICT ELECTORAL AREA

East, Banbridge North, Banbridge South, Banbridge West, Gilford, Loughbrickland, Rathfriland

man

r

1 927

Alderman

Ian Burns UUP 07733 303 712

Alderman

Paul Greenfield DUP 07841 595 633

Jill Macauley UUP 07742 401 128

Junior McCrum DUP 07917 543 668

Brian Pope APNI 07742 401 130

Kevin Savage SF 07919 214628

ICT ELECTORAL AREA

hhill, Seagahan, Tandragee

ughey

03 740

Alderman

Lurgan Alderman

Craigavon

Alderman

Portadown Lagan River

Gordon Kennedy UUP 07833 527 821

Jim Speers UUP 07713 062 239

Armagh

Gareth Wilson DUP 07788 156 519

Banbridge

Cusher

ICT ELECTORAL AREA

ugh Road, Magheralin, Mourneview, Parklake, Shankill

very

01 124

Alderman

Liam Mackle SF 07720 211 273

Sorchá McGeown SF 07742 401 133

Louise McKinstry UUP 07742 401 126

WHO’S IN

3

POWER?

These 41 councillors are responsible for shaping local services and making important decisions that make a real difference to you and your community.

They should be your first point of contact if you want to comment on a service or see some action on an issue that affects you.

Stephen Moutray DUP 07711 011 151

Joe Nelson SDLP 07768 302 110

1

6

10

Democratic Unionist Party [DUP]

Number of seats by political party

Ulster Unionist Party [UUP]

11

Sinn Féin [SF] Social Democratic and Labour Party [SDLP] Alliance Party of Northern Ireland [APNI] Independent [IND]

10 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 23

YOUR GUIDE TO

WHAT'S ON IN THE BOROUGH EXHIBITIONS Armagh Visitor Information Centre

Armagh County Museum

Sharon Regan exhibition

AE Russell

Mon 1 Jul-Wed 31 Jul If you love nature, you are sure to love the inspirational work of the very talented local artist, Sharon Regan.

Call in and enjoy Sharon's sculptures, no doubt one will capture your heart!

Running to Sat 10 Aug An exhibition of paintings by George Russell, painter, poet and mystic.

Armagh Art Club annual summer exhibition Sat 15 Jun-Sat 31 Aug An exhibition by the local art club with works for sale.

ACM Watercolours David Burke exhibition Thurs 1 Aug-Sat 31 Aug Local artist David Burke hosts his first art exhibition throughout August. Call in and enjoy this wonderful work inspired by local myths and legends.

Ring of Gullion Handcrafts and Arts exhibition Sun 1 Sept-Mon 30 Sept This September, the Visitor Information Centre will host the fabulous work of the Ring of Guillion.

Armagh Art Club exhibition Tues 1 Oct-Thurs 31 Oct Armagh Art Club will showcase the varied and beautiful work of their members throughout the month of October.

Lareindeer and Joe Handmade Soaps joint exhibition Fri 1 Nov-Tues 31 Dec An opportunity to pick up some wonderful handcrafted Christmas sculptures and decorations or that special handcrafted gift in the form of organic hand made soap.

Armagh Visitor Information Centre is open Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm and Sun 1pm-5.30pm 028 3752 1800 24 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre

Wed 19 Jun-Sat 28 Dec A selection of watercolours from the museum's collection.

Stray Sod Sat 17 Aug-Mon 19 Oct 2020 An exhibition by Orlaith Cullinane of drawings and paintings in response to the museum’s collections.

A Step in Time Mon 28 Oct-Sat 7 Mar 2020 Celebrating Irish dance.

Armagh County Museum is open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm and Sat 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm [Closed Sun] 028 3752 3070

F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio, Banbridge Scottish colourists from the Fleming collection Fri 31 May-Sat 28 Sept This exhibition charts the work of the artists known as the Scottish colourists, S.J. Peploe, J.D. Fergusson, Leslie Hunter, and F.C.B. Cadell and including work by Sir John Lavery.

F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio is open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm and Sunday 1pm5pm (June, July and Aug) 028 3752 1800

Blood Horses - Paddy Lennon and Moyra Donaldson Mon 22 Jul-Sat 7 Sept Words and images combine to evoke the history of our human relationship with these beautiful creatures and the part horses play in the lives of those who work with them and ride them.

Indian Faces and Scenes Malachi O'Doherty Mon 22 Jul-Sat 7 Sept Malachi O'Doherty travelled around the north of India with a camera, stopping to talk to people, snapping images of strangers, from the beggar on the street in Delhi to the labourer in Kolkata and the farmer in the Punjab.

Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre is open Mon-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm and 8.30pm on show evenings 028 3752 1821 visitarmagh.com/ marketplacetheatre

FREE ADMISSION TO ALL EXHIBITIONS

JUNE

AUGUST Wedding Fever Sat 3 Aug | 8pm Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre The ever-popular Belvoir Players return for their now legendary summer theatre tour with the rip-roaring Sam Cree comedy, ‘Wedding Fever’.

028 3752 1821 visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre

Scarva Bandstand concerts Every Sun Jun-Sept | 3pm-4pm Scarva Bandstand | FREE Taking place every Sunday until September, the concert season features the finest in local concert bands performing at the magnificent Victorian bandstand on beautiful Scarva Green which is renowned for its superb floral displays.

028 4062 0232 visitbanbridge.com

JULY

The Story Of The Miami Showband Tues 20 Aug | 8pm Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre Are you ready to revisit Ireland in the 1960’s in the company of the legendary Miami Showband and all their fantastic hits? Who remembers ‘Simple Simon Says’, ‘From The Candy Store’ or ‘Clap Your Hands, Stomp Your Feet’?

The Gathering - Stories through Fire Sat 3 Aug | 6.30pm-10.30pm Navan Centre & Fort Join us for our annual celebration of the Celtic festival of Lughnasa, marking the beginning of the harvest season. visitarmagh.com/navan

028 3752 1821 visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre

The John Hewitt International Summer School 2019 Mon 22 July-Sat 27 July Various times and admission charges Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre This annual festival of culture and creativity offers an attractive international programme of readings, talks, discussions, exhibitions and evening shows, featuring wellknown writers and performers and esteemed speakers from throughout Ireland, the UK and beyond.

028 3752 1821 johnhewittsociety.org

08-11 AUGUST

Armagh’s iconic 7 Hills Blues Fest returns for a ninth summer bringing world class talent to more than 20 venues and locations across the City.

ARMAGH CITY Firmly established as one of the great blues and roots music events in the UK and Ireland and set to be the jewel in the crown of a series of wonderful summer events across the region.

60+ FREE GIGS BLUES PICNIC IN THE PALACE PARK

SAT 10 AUG | 12NOON-3PM

BBQ N’ BLUES THE SHAMBLES YARD SUN 11 AUG | 1PM-5PM

7HILLSBLUES.COM ft BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 25

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

Armagh Food & Cider Festival Thurs 19 Sept-Sun 22 Sept Various times and locations across the Orchard County Celebrate a tasty feast of Armagh cuisine combined with the best of local cider this harvest season. visitarmagh.com/ foodandcider

Little Spooks Sat 26 Oct-Sun 27 Oct and Wed 30 Oct-Fri 1 Nov | Various times Navan Centre & Fort Little Spooks is the perfect Halloween experience for boys and girls who aren’t afraid of enjoying some spooky surprises!

NOVEMBER Christmas crafts at the Gallery Fri 15 Nov-Sat 16 Nov Fri 4pm-9pm | Sat 10am-4pm F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio Come along and pick up an early Christmas present with a wide variety of crafts on offer or maybe just treat yourself with something a little special.

028 3752 1800 visitarmagh.com/fe

CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH-ONS

Free admission

Armagh Pipers Club - 26th William Kennedy Piping Festival Thu 14 Nov-Sun 17 Nov Various times and venues A four-day international festival of bagpipe-based traditional music, featuring over 60 musicians from Ireland, Scotland and mainland Europe.

028 3752 8188 armaghpipers.com

Put these dates in your diary for a magical Christmas experience as our city and towns light up in celebration of the season and put on a fanfare of festive fun for families across the borough.

Lurgan

Fri 15 Nov | 6pm-10pm

Armagh Georgian Festival Thurs 28 Nov-Sun 1 Dec Various times | Armagh City Centre Celebrate the Georgian history and heritage of Armagh in this four-day festival with events and activities for all the family.

028 3752 1800 visitarmagh.com/georgian

26 BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019

Portadown

Fri 22 Nov | 6pm-10pm

Brownlow

Wed 27 Nov | 3.45pm-5pm

Banbridge

Fri 29 Nov | 6pm-10pm

DIRECTORY OF

COUNCIL FACILITIES Central telephone number 0300 0300 900 Main council offices

Leisure, recreation and community centres

Armagh The Palace Demesne, Armagh BT60 4EL 028 3752 9600

Ardmore Recreation Centre Ashgrove Community Centre, Craigavon Avenue Road Community Centre, Craigavon Banbridge Leisure Centre Bleary Business and Community Centre Brownlow Jubilee Community Hub Brownstown Jubilee Community Centre Cascades Leisure Complex, Portadown Cathedral Road Recreation Centre, Armagh Craigavon Golf Ski Centre Craigavon Leisure Centre Craigavon Watersports Centre Dobbin Street Community Centre, Armagh Dromore Community Centre Gilford Community Centre Keady Recreation Centre Killicomaine Jubilee Community Centre, Craigavon Kinnego Bushcraft Centre, Craigavon Kinnego Marina, Craigavon Lough Neagh Discovery Centre, Craigavon Loughgall Country Park Lurgan Park Mourneview Community Centre, Craigavon North Lurgan Community Centre Orchard Leisure Centre, Armagh Oxford Island National Nature Reserve, Craigavon People’s Park, Portadown Rathfriland Community Centre Richhill Recreation Centre Scarva Cycle Hire Taghnevan Youth and Community Centre, Craigavon Tandragee Recreation Centre Tannaghmore Gardens and Animal Farm Tommy Makem Arts & Community Centre, Keady Waves Leisure Complex, Lurgan

Banbridge Civic Building, Downshire Road, Banbridge BT32 3JY 028 4066 0600 Craigavon Craigavon Civic & Conference Centre, Lakeview Road, Craigavon BT64 1AL 028 3831 2400

Arts and cultural facilities Armagh County Museum 028 3752 3070 Armagh Visitor Information Centre 028 3752 1800 Banbridge Visitor Information Centre 028 4062 0232 Barn Museum 028 3831 1669 Brontë Interpretive Centre, Rathfriland 028 4062 0232 F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio, Banbridge 028 4062 3322 Moneypenny’s Lockhouse 028 3831 1669 Navan Centre & Fort, Armagh 028 3752 9644 The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh 028 3752 1821 Millennium Court Arts Centre 028 3839 4415

028 3751 8384 028 3833 1650 028 3832 6020 028 4062 8800 028 3831 2433 028 3831 3630 028 3833 1964 028 3833 2802 028 3751 8338 028 3832 6606 028 3834 1333 028 3832 6606 028 3751 2004 028 9269 9070 028 3883 1708 028 3753 8388 028 3833 6816 07880 276 355 028 3832 7573 028 3832 2205 028 3889 2900 028 3832 3795 028 3832 6020 028 3831 6394 028 3751 5920 028 3832 2205 028 3831 2597 028 4063 8188 028 3887 0718 028 3883 2766 028 3832 4989 028 3884 1110 028 3834 3244 028 3752 1810 028 3832 2906

Recycling centres Banbridge Recycling Centre Dromore Recycling Centre Fairgreen Recycling Centre, Portadown Keady Recycling Centre Markethill Recycling Centre New Line Recycling Centre, Lurgan Rathfriland Recycling Centre Station Road Recycling Centre, Armagh Tandragee Recycling Centre

028 4066 0604 028 4066 0604 028 3835 0629 028 3753 9131 028 3755 2762 028 3834 5249 028 4066 0604 028 3751 0245 028 3884 9932

Town halls Dromore Town Hall Lurgan Town Hall Portadown Town Hall

info@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk

028 9269 9070 028 3832 2422 028 3833 5264

armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk BOROUGH LINK SUMMER 2019 27

Activities include:

Sports Camps Outdoor Activities Summer Schemes Swimming Lessons plus much more

getactiveabc.com/summer

ACBCBC 2171

For details and to book please visit