Markethill’s final phase of £2m town improvement scheme gets under way

The final phase of a £2 million Environmental Improvement Scheme has begun in Markethill, with contractors now working in the town centre as part of a wider investment in three rural towns.

The scheme covers Rathfriland, Gilford and Markethill and forms part of the Small Settlements Regeneration Programme. The project began in March 2026, with significant improvements already delivered in Rathfriland and Gilford. Markethill is the final location to receive work under the programme.

Work starts outside Dolphin Takeaway

Contractor Northstone has started outside the Dolphin Takeaway. The works will then progress up Main Street in carefully managed phases, with the company expected to remain in Markethill until spring 2027.

The programme is focused on upgrading paving, repairing kerbs and installing new street furniture. The stated aim is to improve the appearance and functionality of Markethill town centre for local residents, businesses and visitors.

Construction will be phased to minimise disruption wherever possible. Access for residents, businesses and emergency services is expected to be maintained at all times, while the project partners have said every effort will be made to reduce inconvenience during the work.

Contact for residents and businesses

Northstone has appointed Gareth McKenna as a dedicated liaison officer and the main point of contact for residents and businesses throughout the construction period. He can be contacted by telephone on 028 9590 5249.

The source gives no complete email address for the liaison officer, so telephone contact is the only published contact detail included here.

Investment across three rural towns

The £2 million scheme is being funded collaboratively by the Department for Communities, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department for Infrastructure, and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Lavelle McIlwrath, said the Markethill work represented the final phase of an investment that had already improved Rathfriland and Gilford.

“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.”

She also thanked local residents and businesses for their support and patience while construction takes place, and said the improvements were expected to have a positive effect on the town for many years.

“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.”

Communities Minister Lyons described the Covid Recovery Small Settlements Regeneration Programme as a joint effort to address long-standing issues in smaller settlements. The minister said the investment was intended to strengthen rural towns, support their long-term sustainability and help keep them vibrant places to live, work and visit.

“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.”

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said her department had contributed to the street works through the regeneration programme. She linked improvements for pedestrians with wellbeing, climate ambitions, economic growth and the region’s appeal as a place to live, work, visit and invest.

“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.”

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said the Markethill project demonstrated what could be achieved when government departments and the council worked together to support rural communities. Further information on the Small Settlements Scheme is available from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.