19/02/2015

Over £200k To Revitalise Banbridge Trading

Over £200,000 is being allocated for the revitalisation of shop fronts and other services in Banbridge, County Down.

Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey has announced further funding for the ongoing Banbridge Revitalisation Project.

The aim of the project is to support traders and promote the area as a destination for shoppers.

The Department for Social Development has provided a total of £222,069 for improvements including free wifi, arts festivals, artists' workshops, shutter and window graphics, signage and a very successful shop front improvement scheme.

Minister Storey said: "Banbridge is an important regional town providing a wide range of services including education, health care, shopping and employment for its residents.

"The shop frontage initiative, which is a part of the overall funding package, has been a great success with almost 80 shop owners availing of this assistance. My Department’s funding has levered in investment from both private sector businesses and Banbridge District Council."

Catriona Regan, director of Leisure and Development said: "The Council welcomes the additional financial support for the Banbridge Revitalisation project which has been announced by the Department for Social Development today.

"The funding will allow further support for shop front grants in the town centre and will directly assist the business community to make improvements to their property ensuring that Banbridge remains a competitive commercial location during a difficult time for the high street.:"

(IT/MH)

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