Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council launched a Business Paint Scheme with £70,000 available in grants for local businesses and property owners. The funding targets improvements to shopfront appearances in town and village centres.

Grants range from £500 to £1,500 and cover up to 50% of costs for repainting shopfronts or signage, plus repair or cleaning of external stonework and brickwork.

Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray welcomed the scheme as a practical support for local businesses that enhances street vibrancy through well-maintained shopfronts. He urged eligible applicants to apply.

Eligible participants include independent retailers, cafés, restaurants, bars, hair and beauty businesses, service providers, and vacant commercial properties. Residential properties above shopfronts qualify where applicable.

The scheme applies to properties in Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon, Dromore, Lurgan, Portadown, Aghagallon, Bleary, Dollingstown, Donaghcloney, Gilford, Keady, Laurelvale/Mullavilly, Magheralin, Markethill, Rathfriland, Richhill, Tandragee, Waringstown, Drumnacanvy, Hamiltonsbawn, Kinallen, Poyntzpass, Blackwatertown, Loughgall, Derrymacash, and Loughbrickland, plus others with streetscape frontage in the borough.

Applications opened on 18 May and close on 1 June 2026. Council assesses submissions on a first-come basis. Information sessions provide support for queries.