Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has been asked to set up a traders forum in Markethill before environmental improvement works begin later this year.

The request came from local DUP councillor Adam Copeland, who said traders need a direct channel to raise concerns while contractors are on site.

Northstone was appointed in February to deliver the works in Markethill, Gilford and Rathfriland under a £2m investment shared across the three towns.

The scheme is a joint programme between the Department for Communities, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department for Infrastructure and the council.

Works are due to reach Markethill in August or September after initial phases in Rathfriland and Gilford.

Copeland said the forum would allow traders views to be heard and acted on quickly during construction.

He added that access to businesses must be maintained throughout the project despite the need to carry out street works.