Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart Welcomes Completion of £6M Banbridge Public Realm Scheme

Carla Lockhart MP • February 19, 2025

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the completion of the £6 million Banbridge Public Realm Scheme, marking the final phase of a major regeneration programme across Upper Bann’s three key towns—following similar works in Lurgan and Portadown. 

Carla Lockhart MP said: 


"Having worked hard to secure this investment for Banbridge, it is fantastic to now see the project completed. While the process has taken time and, at points, been frustrating, the end result is a much-enhanced town centre that will benefit businesses, residents, and visitors alike. The feedback so far has been very positive, and I hope this will encourage even greater footfall and economic activity in the town.


Banbridge is a fantastic town with a strong retail and hospitality offering, and I want to commend the dedication of our local businesses, who have continued to invest and work hard to make it such a success. This project has provided a much-needed boost, ensuring that Banbridge remains a thriving hub for commerce and community life. 


The improvements delivered through this scheme—high-quality paving, modern street lighting, and upgraded public spaces—have created a more welcoming and accessible environment. It is important that our town centres continue to receive investment so they remain attractive places for people to visit, shop, and socialise.


As someone who has consistently lobbied for regeneration across Upper Bann, I know how vital projects like this are in keeping our towns strong and competitive.


I know that with any project of this scale, there can sometimes be snagging issues. If anyone has concerns or issues that need addressing, I would encourage them to get in touch. I will be happy to raise them with the relevant authorities to ensure they are resolved. 


This investment, alongside previous projects in Lurgan and Portadown, represents a major step forward in regenerating our town centres. Each of these towns has benefitted from significant improvements, and this work will help to attract more visitors, businesses, and investment to the area.


I want to thank all those involved in delivering this project and for their patience throughout the process. Our town centres are at the heart of our community, and I will continue to work to ensure they receive the support and investment needed to keep them thriving."


Share

By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed confirmation from the Department for Infrastructure that a missing speed ramp on Mill Hill, Waringstown, will be reinstated following representations she made on behalf of concerned local residents.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to Waringstown Neighbourhood Watch as the organisation marked its 20th anniversary, praising its volunteers for two decades of dedication to keeping the village safe. 
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the organisers of a successful Eleventh of July Fun Day and Tea Dance in Lurgan, commending the outstanding community spirit on display ahead of the annual Twelfth celebrations.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the tremendous turnout and community spirit displayed across Northern Ireland as thousands gathered to mark the Glorious Twelfth.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 9, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has welcomed the launch of DAERA's Sustainable Farming Investment Scheme, describing it as essential and meaningful support Northern Ireland's farming industry.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 8, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has challenged the Government over what she described as its failure to protect Northern Ireland from illegal immigration, warning that the Province remains exposed because of weaknesses in UK border policy.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 5, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has reaffirmed her unwavering support for the brethren of Portadown District LOL No. 1 after attending today’s Drumcree parade and church service, describing it as another significant chapter in their long-standing campaign to return home along their traditional route.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 3, 2026
DUP Agriculture Spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has welcomed DAERA's long-awaited consultation on wildlife intervention, describing it as a vital step towards delivering the comprehensive bovine TB eradication strategy that Northern Ireland's farming community has been demanding for decades.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 1, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to local centenarian Jim Copeland as he celebrated his 100th birthday, describing him as “one of life’s true gentlemen” and thanking him for his lifetime of Christian faith, service and quiet inspiration.