Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has approved a request for dual Irish and English street signs at Woodside Hill in Portadown. The decision ends a High Court challenge launched by local resident Iris Hagan after an earlier council rejection.

The council rejected the initial application despite support from the required proportion of residents. Petitions need backing from at least 33% of residents initially and two thirds of households on the electoral register. Councillors voted against the proposal despite majority resident support on the street.

Hagan took legal action claiming the council decision lacked rationality. Proceedings concluded after the council ratified the fresh application at a meeting last month. The sign will be erected within weeks.

Hagan stated that the sign recognises the rights of residents and children educated through Irish. Her solicitor, Gavin Booth of Phoenix Law, confirmed the outcome supports the position of Hagan and most Woodside Hill residents.

Sinn Féin MLA John O’Dowd for Upper Bann commended Hagan, local residents and councillors for their efforts. He noted that unionist councillors blocked the proposal despite resident backing, leading to public funds spent on defence.