Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has promised Portadown traders no full road closure during the 2026 Christmas lights switch-on. The assurance follows complaints about a total traffic closure in December 2025 that blocked shoppers from reaching businesses.

Ulster Unionist Councillor Julie Flaherty raised the issue at the council's economic development committee meeting. She reviewed a report on the 2025 Christmas events and noted positive feedback overall. Flaherty highlighted persistent problems with road closure timings in Portadown and urged action to benefit traders at the town's base end.

She also called for more activities for businesses at the bottom end of Portadown. Council staff acknowledged the need to address trader concerns across towns.

Paul Tamati, director of development and community and wellbeing, stated that road closures remain necessary for setting up Christmas stalls and markets. He said the council aims to minimise impacts and improve annually.

Elaine Cullen, infrastructure and economic development manager, confirmed extensive consultations with Portadown businesses via town centre managers. She assured that feedback led to plans for one-way or single closures only, delayed until 4pm to respect peak retail hours.

Cullen noted efforts to add activities beyond Church Street. She added that retailers and chambers requested more festive events on Saturdays in December, which the council plans to support.