Lurgan in County Armagh has an architectural heritage dating back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest settlements in the area. But many of the historic buildings which give the town centre its unique character have fallen into disrepair and are underused or vacant. Now a new five-year project is set to regenerate the historic market town, thanks to a £2m National Lottery grant.

The Lurgan Townscape Heritage project will restore and conserve historic buildings throughout the town’s commercial core, bringing back into sustainable use much-needed, valuable floor space.

[quote=Paul Mullan, Head of HLF Northern Ireland]"These exciting plans will regenerate the historic streetscape and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Lurgan."[/quote]

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council will lead the project to breathe new life into the town centre, boosting the local economy with the creation of new jobs, new living and retail space, and helping to attract additional investment to the area.

Announcing the award, Paul Mullan, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, said: “These exciting plans will regenerate the historic streetscape and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Lurgan. The heart of the town will be transformed and reimagined as a vibrant space for people to use, visit and enjoy, and we are delighted to be involved.

“It is thanks to National Lottery players that we can support such fantastic projects that deliver real benefits to communities right across Northern Ireland. To date, HLF has awarded funding to more than 1,200 projects with a total investment of £209m in our amazing local heritage.”

As well as the building works, a programme of events and activities such as town tours, storytelling sessions, a Blue Plaque scheme and traditional skills and crafts workshops, will help bring people into the town centre to learn more about the unique heritage of the area.