Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has formally adopted its first heritage strategy, a ten-year framework to safeguard and invest in the area’s historic places, landscapes and traditions.

The plan was shaped by a public consultation that gathered input from more than 10,000 residents, community groups, heritage organisations, schools and businesses.

Lord Mayor Councillor Mary O’Dowd described the strategy as a significant milestone, emphasising that local heritage defines identity and that the broad public engagement ensured community priorities are reflected. She added that the vision seeks to protect heritage assets while supporting wellbeing and sustainable economic growth.

The strategy includes a small grants scheme for heritage projects, the creation of a heritage network, a dedicated approach for green and blue spaces, and backing for UNESCO-related initiatives such as Navan Fort and the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium.

Dr Paul Mullan, Northern Ireland Director at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, commended the council’s extensive consultation, noting that the process provides a solid foundation for future investment.

The borough has been designated Northern Ireland’s first Heritage Place under a UK-wide initiative funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, a decade-long commitment to strengthening local heritage.

Council officials will now work with partners across the heritage sector to deliver on the strategy’s goals over the coming years.