Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is asking residents, businesses and community groups to provide input on place plans for Craigavon, Lurgan and Portadown. The council, working with Carlin Planning, wants feedback on living, working and using services in these towns to guide growth, investment and development.

Alderman Stephen Moutray, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, urged local people to join the process. He said the plans will capture community aspirations and called for participation online or at engagement sessions.

Engagement includes an online session on Wednesday 15 April, plus events at Marlborough House, heritage walks in Lurgan and Portadown, and coffee chats to collect ideas.

The project receives funding from the council and the Department for Communities. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons noted the department's support and stressed the value of community input for a vision that directs investment and regeneration.

Separately, the council thanked over 700 residents, business representatives, community groups and visitors for attending sessions on Armagh Gaol's future. The site overlooking The Mall has been vacant since 1986.

Alderman Stephen Moutray thanked participants and said their input shows the landmark's importance. He added that feedback will shape the business case to match local aspirations and support sustainable development for Armagh and the borough.

Carlin Planning facilitated the Gaol events. The firm will now develop an outline business case using public views and viable options. The council secured momentum for the project through the Mid South West Growth Deal, which targets the site for multifunctional use. The business case goes to the Growth Deal in late summer 2026.