Spellar Launches Lurgan Development Framework Document

7 March 2005
SPELLAR LAUNCHES LURGAN DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK DOCUMENT
The Minister for Social Development, John Spellar MP, has launched the Lurgan Development Framework document which aims to enhance the quality of the town as a place for all to live, work and visit.
The Minister said; "I very much welcome the launch of the Lurgan Development Framework document which marks an important step towards a better future for the people of Lurgan."
The Framework Document was commissioned by Craigavon Borough Council and was funded by the Department for Social Development through the EU Peace II Programme. The report was prepared by Environment Resources Management following extensive research including widespread consultation with local interests.
The Minister paid tribute to the foresight of Craigavon Borough Council in taking an important first step towards implementation of measures to improve the whole town centre. Speaking at the launch in Lurgan Town Hall, he said:
"The council are to be congratulated on appointing ERM since this is clearly a milestone towards implementation of measures which will make Lurgan a much better place in which to live, work, shop and visit. This approach is very much in line with my Department's thinking on City and Town Centre regeneration and will provide a good platform from which to take forward the various issues contained in the document."
The Minister confirmed that the Department for Social Development is committed to assisting the Council and other interested parties to implement the agreed detailed proposals. He also confirmed that the Department supported the Council in its decision to appoint a Town Centre Manager and to set up a new company to oversee implementation of the agreed detailed proposals for developing the town centre.

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