initial draft village plan aghagallon

Aghagallon Village Plan

Aghagallon Village Plan Page 1

MWA partnership Ltd Parkway Studios Belmont Business Park Belfast BT 4 2AW Tel 02890 768827 [email protected]

October 2012


Introduction page 3 The Village Plan Process page 4 The Settlements page 6 Issues & Initiatives page 12 SOAR Projects Identified page 24 Action Plan page 25 Appendix 1 page 31

CONTENTS


The MWA partnership in association with Harper Tourism and Community Development was appointed by Craigavon Borough Council in August 2011 to develop a series of Village Plans for the following village clusters:-

• Waringstown, Bleary & Gibson’s Hill

• Donaghcloney, Milltown & Ballynabragget

• Magheralin, Dollingstown and Ballymacmaine

• Tartaraghan & The Birches

• Maghery & Milltown

• Charlestown & Derrytrasna

• Derryadd & Derrymacash

This commission was then extended to include the additional settlements of :

• Scotch Street

• Aghagallon It was agreed that the adjacent settlement of Derrymore would be included in the Aghagallon Village Plan. For the purposes of this study, the settlement limit for the village is as defined in the Craigavon Area Plan 2010. As part of the Action Plan, projects / initiatives were discussed and identified as a potential application to SOAR for funding. SOAR [Southern Organisation for Action in Rural Areas] is the body charged with the delivery of the Rural Development Programme within the Armagh, Craigavon and Newry & Mourne Council areas. The objective of Measure 3.5 Village Renewal and Development is to enable and encourage residents of villages and surrounding areas to create a vision and an integrated action plan to ensure the full potential of such areas is achieved and to support integrated village initiatives which promote cross community development and regeneration.

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND


THE VILLAGE PLAN PROCESS


The process was designed to maximise input and discussion within the local community and consisted of : Stage 1 Desk research was carried out to consider all relevant background information on each settlement. Stage 2 Site surveys were carried out by the Consultant Team to map the settlement, build up a photographic record and identify issues and opportunity sites. Stage 3 The Consultant Team then met with representatives of the Aghagallon & District Community Association [ADCA] on 3rd July 2012 to outline the concept of the Village Plan and discuss some of the issues relating to the village. Stage 4 In consultation with ADCA, St Patrick’s Primary School and the Council, a workshop was arranged for the evening of Thursday 27th August 2012. This was promoted by the distribution of a flyer by the community group and by a press release from Craigavon Borough Council. After a brief introduction, the workshop split into two groups chaired by members of the Consultant Team in order to discuss issues relating to the community.

The group then re-convened to discuss issues raised under the general headings of:

• Community

• Services

• Traffic

• Recreation & Amenity

• Environment

• Tourism

In addition, a web site and facebook pages were set up to allow addi-tional feedback to the Consultant Team: www.craigavonvillageplans.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/Craigavon.villageplans



Stage 5 All issues raised at the workshop were reviewed on site and additional consultations were carried out with Council Officers and Statutory Agencies as required. Stage 6 A draft Village Plan was then reviewed with representatives of ADCA at a meeting on 10th October. Amendments were incorporated in the final document. The Action Plan forms the basis of this Village Plan. In addition, potential projects were identified for consideration to move forward to an application for funding under Measure 3.5 : Village Renewal and Development for assessment by SOAR. These projects are highlighted on page 24 of the Village Plan.

On-going support for the community The production of the Village Plan is only the beginning of the renewal and development process. It identifies a range of actions and these may involve input from a number of Government agencies as well as Craigavon Borough Council. To assist the communities in this process, the Council envisages establishing a Rural Inter-Agency Forum. This will enable community groups to access representatives of the Agencies on a regular basis and raise specific issues relating to their own Village Plans. The need for this type of Forum was highlighted in the Craigavon Borough Council Rural Development Strategy and has been reinforced by the Village Plan process.


THE SETTLEMENTS

Aghagallon


The name Aghagallon is derived from the Irish Achadh Gallan which means “field of the standing stone.” Aghagallon is located on the B12 , approximately 6km to the north east of Lurgan. At the 2001 Census the population was stated as 824 people, although this is likely to have increased over recent years with a number of new housing developments. The Craigavon Area Plan 2010 Identifies:

• Additional lands for development - Phase 2 which have not yet been developed

• There is a Local Landscape Policy Area in the centre of the settlement . The area

forms a distinctive landform [possibly the site of an old fort] and includes St Patrick’s Church which is a Listed Building. Facilities in the settlement include:

• St Patrick’s Primary School

• St Patrick’s Church

• Parish Hall [site of proposed new community facility]

• Village store / Post Office

• Butchers

• Hairdressers

• Fruit & vegetable shop

• Hardware shop

• GA pitch [to the rear of the church] Aghagallon is a linear settlement developed along the Lurgan Road with a strong focus at the centre of the village around the church and primary school. This central area also includes the site for the proposed community facility.

THE SETTLEMENTS

Village Description - Aghagallon

There are a number of visitor destination points and facilities in the surrounding area which include:

• The shores of Lough Neagh

• The Lagan Canal and sections of restored towpath

• Portmore Lough Reserve managed by the RSPB

• The Montiaghs Moss Nature Reserve

• Riverdale, Gilbert’s Dam [venue for functions and

weddings]

• National Cycle Route 94 which forms a section of the

113 mile circuit around Lough Neagh

The area also includes St. Mary’s GAC on the Clonane Road, an Ancient Order of Hibernian Hall on the Whitehall Road, Cranagh Hall, Mitchell’s Hall and a Council play area off Parknasilla Way which is now closed. Aghagallon is located on Ulsterbus route 53.


THE SETTLEMENTS

Derrymore


DERRYMORE

Village Description - Derrymore

There are a number of visitor destination points and facilities in the surrounding area which include:

• The shores of Lough Neagh

• The Lagan Canal and sections of restored towpath

• Portmore Lough Reserve managed by the RSPB

• The Montiaghs Moss Nature Reserve

• Riverdale, Gilbert’s Dam [venue for functions and weddings]

• National Cycle Route 94 along the Derrymore Road which

forms a section of the 113 mile circuit around Lough Neagh

The name Derrymore is derived from the Irish Doire Mor meaning the “great oak-grove”. Derrymore is located on the south east shore of Lough Neagh, approximately 5km to the north west of Aghagallon. At the 2001 census the population was stated as 243. The Craigavon Area Plan 2010 identifies:

• The land between the Derrymore Road and the Lough shore as a

Countryside Police Area.

• An area to the south of the settlement zoned for development -

phase 2. The settlement is linear in nature stretching along the eastern side of the Derrymore Road. The open agricultural land on the western side of the road allows fine views across Lough Neagh. The settlement consists of a series of detached and semi-detached dwellings with two small housing developments at Bayview Park and Lough View. St. Mary’s Primary School is located on the Derrymore Road and also operates a pre-school play group. Derrymore is included in the Craigavon Rural Heritage Trail as a smaller settlement. Reference is made in the booklet to the raised landforms which were caused by previous schemes to lower water levels in the Lough. Craigavon Borough Council own a small area of land between the Derrymore Road and the Lough shore. The site consists of lose stoned access which is quite steep and grassed areas with shoreline planting.


Aghagallon & District Community Association [ADCA] is the local community group which acts as an umbrella organisation for a number of specialist groups including the Cranagh & Aghagallon Senior Citizens Club and the Aghagallon & District Walking Group. ADCA operate a web site with wealth of useful information on the area - www.aghagalloncommunityassociation.btck.co.uk. The role of the ACDA is to “support the community forum and the development of a new community centre, promote community safety and the environment and organise the community festival.” The Aghagallon & District Steering Group carried out a community survey in 2008. Many of the issues raised within this survey were reflected in the community workshop. There are two Youth Clubs operating in the area - Seven Derrys Youth Club and the John Mitchell Youth Club.

THE SETTLEMENTS

Perceptions At the workshop, people were asked what they valued about living in Aghagallon / Derrymore area. Responses included:

• Rural setting, yet convenience of the town

• Good environment

• Good housing

• Good services—shops & Post Office

• Friendly community

• Families have lived in the area for generations

• Good age mix within village

• Strong GA Club

• Cranagh Hall; Mitchell’s Hall & Parish Hall

• Little vandalism Negative things about living in Aghagallon were:

• No play area

• Poor level of public transport

• Lack of walking routes

• Lack of community involvement ie. volunteers

• Traffic speed on the Colane Road

• Abandoned building site on Parknasilla Way

Other organisations active in the area include:

• South Lough Neagh Regeneration Association

The SLNRA was established in 1993 as a voluntary organisation to attract and encourage investment in the economic, social and environmental well being of the southern shores of Lough Neagh.

• Loughshore Care Partnership

The LCP was established in 2003 to provide locally based health and social services to those living in rural areas along the southern shores of Lough Neagh.

The community festival held at Gilbert’s Dam


THE SETTLEMENTS

GAA pitch and car park to the rear of St Patricks Primary School

Floral display at the entrance to Aghagallon

Towpath at Cranagh Bridge on the Lagan Canal

Entrance into Aghagallon from the west

St Patrick’s Church, Aghagallon

Council owned land at Derrymore Quay


ISSUES & INITIATIVES

A number of issues were identified and discussed at the workshops. These have been grouped under the following themes for ease of reference.

1.1 Community facilities The development of a community facility is one of the key objectives of the ADCA. Funding is in place for the development of a new facility on the site of the existing Parish Hall. A Design Team is in the process of being appointed with a potential project completion date scheduled for the end of 2013. This will provide a base to allow the group to provide a wide range of activities such as a pre-school club; breakfast club; after school club as well as youth activities.

Potential Initiatives Identified • Support the efforts of ADCA in developing the community facilities

on the Parish Hall site.

Theme 1 Community

1.2 Sense of community There were many positive comments on the sense of community,

such as the works of the ADCA and the annual community festival. There was, however, strong support for the need to build a better sense of community. This would reinforce pride in the community and build on the work and success of the local groups and

organisations. Initiatives discussed included the organisation of more community events and the potential of re-establishing links with Aghalee. The absence of a focal point in the village was also mentioned - a seating area / open space / sculpture for example. The development of the new community facilities was recognised as a major step forward in developing a better sense of community.

Potential Initiatives Identified

• Develop a recruitment strategy to increase the volunteer base.

• Re-establish links with Aghalee Community group.

• Investigate opportunities to provide more events.

• Consider a community history project involving inter-generational co-operation [opportunity to link with Lagan Canal history see 5.3]

• Provide a “welcome pack” for people moving into the village, listing information on the activities and groups in the Aghagallon area.

1.3 Informing the community ADCA operate a good web site which is kept up to date - www.aghagalloncommunityassociation.btck.co.uk. St Mary’s GAC also operates a web site which covers both sporting and community events at www.aghagallongaa.com. However, an alternative need was identified to circulate information and inform the community. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Review feasibility of providing a newsletter.

• Provide a village notice board.

Site of the new build community facility



1.4 Anti-social behaviour The issue of anti-social behaviour was raised at the Workshop. The issue of under age drinking behind the Primary School was discussed, together with the associated problem of broken bottles being left on the adjacent pitch. Concern was expressed that much of the anti-social behaviour was associated with a lack of things for young people to do and get involved in. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the development of the community facilities on the Parish Hall site.

• Encourage recruitment of a young person onto the community group to provide a young person’s perspective.

• Support the work carried out by Youth Clubs in the area and source funding opportunities to for extended activity programmes.

• Review support to provide a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

• Monitor incidents and liaise with PSNI Neighbourhood Police

Officer.

1.5 Potential for Historical Society Reference was made to the rich history of the area - especially associated with the Lagan Canal. It was felt that the establishment of a local history society could develop this potential. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Identify level of support within the community.

• Liaise with LCT on initiatives that they are progressing.

1.6 Refurbishment of Cranagh & Aghagallon Hall Insert text when available Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the Cranagh & Aghagallon Hall Committee to source

funding

1.7 Village entrance signs - Derrymore The need for a proper entrance sign to the settlement was raised at the workshop Potential Initiatives identified

• Provide village entrance signs on a common theme with other

villages within the Montiaghs

Improvised village entrance sign at Derrymore



Theme 2 Services

2.1 Services for the elderly Discussions focused on the problems of isolation of the elderly in the rural community. The contribution of the Cranagh & Aghagallon Senior Citizens Club was recognised and it was felt that the new community facilities will provide a base for additional provision for the elderly. Down Armagh Rural Transport [DART] deliver a range of pre-booked fully accessible community transport services within the Craigavon Council area. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the work carried out by the Crannagh & Aghagallon Senior

Citizens Club and identify potential funding sources.

• Review needs of the elderly when developing proposals for the new

community facilities and future activity programmes.

• Retain existing services in the community such as the Post Office

and mobile library service.

• Review support provided by the LCP and SLNRA and identify any

further opportunities of assistance.

• Review need of providing a befriending / local call check service in

specific cases.

• Promote the availability of DART as a provider of community

transport.

2.2 Public transport There was a general feeling that the level of public transport needs to be more flexible and responsive to community needs. It was noted that there is no bus service to the train stations at either Moira or Lurgan. The bus service to Derrymore and Gawley’s Gate was also described as inadequate. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Discuss with other communities and lobby Translink for an

improved / more flexible service.

2.3 Bus shelter Mixed views were expressed on the need / desirability of a bus shelter. Some though it would provide a location for anti-social behaviour whilst others thought it was a necessity [especially for elderly people]. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Review the need for a bus shelter and develop a consensus in the community.

2.4 Broadband service • There were mixed views on the level of broadband service within

the area. There is an ADSL network available from the local telephone exchange in Aghalee but conflicting information on whether there is fibre optic availability. The NI Broadband Fund has appointed North West Electronics to improve access to broadband in rural areas. The DETI Telecoms Action Plan 2011- 2015 states that “virtually all premises across Northern Ireland should be able to access a broadband service of at least 2 Mega bits per second. DETI are carrying out an assessment of areas with poor broadband service in Northern Ireland.


• Contact NW Electronics to investigate scope of works.

• Residents should ensure their post code is included in the DETI assessment - www.detini.gov.uk

2.5 Mobile phone reception • The poor level of mobile reception on a number of networks was

raised at the workshop. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Lobby providers to improve service.



2.6 Mobile library service • There was some discussion as to whether there was a mobile library service in the village. Consultations with Libraries NI revealed that the service stops in five different locations within the village as part of a fortnightly Friday service . They also operate a Homebound service where a need is identified. Libraries NI are currently reviewing their mobile library strategy with a consultation exercise which begins on 24th September 2012.


• Promote the availability of the existing mobile library service.

• Promote the availability of the Homebound service.

• Review opportunity to provide a small static library facility in the new community building with Libraries NI.

• Make a community representation to Libraries NI as part of their strategy review.

2.7 Bin collection service Some residents expressed their dissatisfaction with recent changes to bin collection with regard to where bins are to be placed for collection. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Review with Craigavon Borough Council.

2.8 Road gritting Views were expressed that during the bad weather last year, there was no gritting on the main route to the motorway and the Colane Road. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Request DRD Roads Service Section Office to assess.

Theme 3 Traffic

3.1 Traffic speed Since the provision of traffic calming measures along the Aghalee Road, excessive traffic speed through the village is no longer a problem. However the view was expressed that traffic speed out past Whitehall Gate is still a problem. Residents also felt that traffic calming measures should be extended to both Whitehall Gate and at the other side of the village, out towards Aghalee. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Request Roads Service to carry out an assessment for the

extension of traffic calming measures.

• Request Roads Service to move the 30mph sign at Whitehall Gate

to improve visibility.

• Request PSNI to continue speed monitoring.

Traffic calming measures along the Aghalee Road through the village



3.3 Footpath from village to St Mary’s GAC, Colane Road The need for a footpath from the village to St Mary’s GAC was expressed, especially given the number of children who walk along the Colane Road. However the problems of land availability and cost were recognised. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Monitor for future opportunities.

3.4 Footpath from village to Cranagh Bridge The provision of a footpath from the village to Cranagh Bridge was seen as desirable especially since this is currently the only connection to the Lagan Canal towpath. However, the problems of land availability and cost were recognised. Potential Initiatives Identified


3.2 Footpath from village to Aghalee The provision of a footpath from the village to Aghalee was seen as desirable, however the problems of land availability and cost were recognised. Potential Initiatives Identified


3.5 Signage The absence of signs was highlighted :

• A directional sign at the junction of the Colane Road and Lurgan

Road.

• A street name sign [Colane Road] at the Lurgan Road junction.

• A welcome sign for Aghagallon along the Colane Road

approach.


• Request Roads Service & Craigavon Borough Council to install

signs accordingly.

3.6 Whitehall Road / Lurgan Road junction The poor sight lines from the Whitehall Road into the Lurgan Road was highlighted at the workshop. Whilst it was realised that this may be difficult to resolve, it was felt that the extension of traffic calming measures [see 3.1] would slow traffic down on the approach to this junction. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Request DRD Roads Service to carry out an assessment.

Concealed speed limit sign at Whitehall



Theme 4 Recreation & Amenity 4.2 Recreation facilities There were a number of problems associated with the Council play area at Parknasilla Way and it is now closed. There is strong support within the community to identify another site which will be less problematic. There was much discussion on a number of alternative sites:

• Area adjacent to the church and the GA pitch. This is within

a Landscape Policy Area due to the archaeological importance of the site. Initial discussions have revealed that NIEA are considering carrying out an exploratory dig in the area which will determine the future potential of the site.

• Grassed area at Whitehall Gate - in private ownership

• Area at Parknasilla Way - has development potential and is

in private ownership

• Land adjacent to the Parochial House on the Aghalee Road

- owned by Parish for future extension of graveyard Discussion revealed that the preferred option would be to develop a MUGA at the GA pitch and a play area on the Aghalee Road site adjacent to the Parochial House. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Identify needs and type of facility to be provided.

• Identify preferred location and test feasibility of acquiring site.

• Identify potential funding sources.

4.1 Provision for young people Whilst there was recognition of the good work carried out by the two youth clubs in the area, it was felt that there is a lack of things for young people to do. There was discussion on the need for a play space / MUGA facility. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the work of the local Youth Clubs.

• Investigate opportunities for additional youth programmes with

SELB and Public Health Agency.

4.3 St Mary’s GAC The role St Mary’s GAC plays in the community was recognised at the workshop. The Club is currently seeking funds to carry out pitch improvements. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the funding efforts of St Mary’s GAC.

Potential site for MUGA to the rear of the GA pitch — an ideal location in terms of proximity to the new community centre


4.6 Amenity area at Derrymore Quay This area is owned and maintained by Craigavon Borough Council as an area of open space. The site consists of a lose stoned access, which is quite steep, and grassed areas with shoreline planting. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the grant application to “Awards for All” to carry out an improvement scheme.


4.4 Seating & amenity area There was support at the workshop to provide a local amenity area as a focal point in the village. This could provide seating and bedding displays and even a public art installation. Options were discussed, with the preferred location being as a combined facility with the play area on the church owned site on the Aghalee Road [ see 4.2]. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Investigate potential of providing a seating and amenity area as

part of a play facility.

• Investigate funding opportunities.

4.5 Walking routes Reference was made at the workshop of the Aghagallon & District Walking Group and the need to develop more local routes around the village. The Council’s current “Walk on the Wild Side” initiative has developed a series of walks in the Borough supported by a booklet which includes a number of walks in the area. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the current “Walk on the Wild Side” initiative.

• Investigate future opportunities for extending further walking trails

in the area

• Support the initiative to develop the Canal towpath

Potential site for a combined play and amenity space on the Aghalee Road



4.7 Lagan Canal towpath The Lagan Canal towpath is recognised as an important recreation amenity to the residents of Aghagallon and the surrounding area. Part of the towpath has been restored from Cranagh Bridge to the west and part of the section to the east towards the Goudy Bridge, where the Lock House and associated towpath is in private ownership currently for sale. The Lagan Canal Trust is progressing the opening of the complete link from Lough Neagh to Belfast [see under Tourism] and the community felt that the completion of the section between the two bridges would initially provide an excellent walking route for the village. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the long term objectives of the Lagan Canal Trust to open

the canal from Lough Neagh to Belfast.

• Lobby for the completion of the section between the Cranagh and

Goudy Bridges.

Council owned land at Derrymore Quay

The towpath at Cranagh Bridge The towpath offers a safe and attractive walking route for local residents



Theme 5 Environment

5.1 Fly tipping This was a frequent problem raised in the wider area and would seem to occur on a fairly regular basis. Craigavon Borough Council can assist in the removal of dumped material and can instigate an enforcement process through their Environmental Wardens. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Contact Carn Depot Craigavon Borough Council to report any

incidents or via the web site at Craigavon.gov.uk.

5.2 Appearance of the village Support was expressed at the workshop to improve the visual appearance of the village. Craigavon Borough Council offers support to community groups to improve their local environment through the provision of bedding plants. The community is then responsible for planting and maintenance which requires an on-going level of commitment from volunteers. The village “tidy up” in 2011 was seen as a success in not only cleaning up the village but also in reinforcing a sense of community. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Continue the community clean up initiative as an annual event

• Set up a Village Improvements Committee to develop and

co-ordinate a programme of improvements.

• Consider working towards the “Best Kept Village” awards through

the NI Amenity Council.

5.3 Dog fouling The problem of dog fouling was identified as an important issue although after discussion it was agreed that there was a sufficient supply of dog waste bins. Craigavon Borough Council may supply any signage as necessary and are responsible for any enforcement action through their Environmental Wardens. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Consider implementing an awareness campaign within the

community as part of improving the appearance of the village.

5.4 Grass verge & hedge maintenance It was felt that there are a number of locations where overgrown hedges and poorly maintained grass verges detract from the appearance of the village and it’s surroundings.


• Identify locations and ascertain responsibility.

• Contact local landowner and discuss.

• Contact Roads Service Section office and request review.

5.5 Bartin’s Bay site on the Lough shore Comment was raised that the Bartin’s Bay site on the shores of the Lough [which is in Council ownership] requires improvement. An environmental improvement scheme for the site has recently received a letter of offer for funding as part of the wider Southern Loughshore Way Initiative. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the implementation of the Southern Loughshore Way

Initiative.



Theme 6 Tourism

6.1 Tourism potential It was felt that Aghagallon is surrounded by a number of tourist attractions:

• The southern shores of Lough Neagh

• Portmore Lough

• Montiaghs Nature Reserve

• Lagan Canal

In addition Riverdale, Gibert’s Dam is a popular venue for weddings and other functions is on the periphery of the village. The Aghagallon Trail is also featured in the Craigavon Rural Heritage Trail [CRHT] - an initiative by Craigavon Borough Council to develop and publish booklets to promote the rural villages of Aghacommon, Aghagallon, Bleary, Dollingstown, Donaghcloney, Drumnacanvy, Magheralin and Waringstown. The National Cycle Route 94 goes through the village as part of the 113 mile circuit of Lough Neagh.


• Support the CRHT initiative by installing interpretation panels

within the village.

• Examine other opportunities to provide interpretation / promotional

material eg. Historic monument at St Patrick’s Church.

The Lagan Canal

The Montiaghs Nature Reserve

The southern shores of Lough Neagh

Gilbert’s Dam - a private venue for functions

Portmore Lough



6.2 Opportunities for tourism to benefit the local economy It was generally agreed that there are very few opportunities for visitors to contribute to the local economy. This will become even more important as plans to develop the Lagan Canal are advanced and more people are attracted into the area. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the initiative to investigate the option to provide a cafe in

the new community facility as part of a social economy enterprise.

• Investigate opportunities for any joint marketing / promotional

opportunities with Riverdale, Gilbert’s Dam.

6.3 Opening of the Lagan Canal There was unanimous support for this at the workshop. The Lagan Canal Trust [LCT] is attempting to secure £100m investment to open up the 27 mile stretch of the Canal from Lough Neagh to Belfast. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Support the initiative to open up the Lagan Canal and raise

awareness in the community

• Complete the LCT questionnaire to demonstrate support

• Investigate opportunities with LCT– eg schools projects,

community ownership of the Aghagallon stretch of Canal; local history / stories.

• Lobby LCT to nominate the Aghagallon stretch as a demonstration

project to develop towpath access from Lough Neagh to Moira Train Station



6.4 Linking the Lagan Canal to Aghagallon Whilst there is pedestrian access to the Canal at the Cranagh Bridge, all thought it would be desirable to promote a more direct link into the village which would benefit existing traders and support a social economy cafe at the new community facilities. A potential route was identified leading from the Aghalee Road at the Post Office, which could potentially link to the Canal at Chapel Lock and across to the towpath via a swing bridge [depending on LCT requirements]. This would obviously be dependant on agreement with landowners. Potential Initiatives Identified

• Investigate landownership and potential for agreements.

• Identify costs.

• Source funding opportunities.

Potential link to the Lagan Canal from the village centre Potential link from village centre to Lagan Canal towpath


The following projects have been identified to move forward to an application to SOAR for funding under Measure 3.5: Village Renewal and Development.

• Provision of village notice board & seating

• Provision of village entrance sign at Derrymore

• Provision of interpretation panels as part of the Craigavon Rural Heritage Trail

• A Feasibility Study to develop options & costs to provide a link from the village to the Lagan Canal towpath

PROJECTS IDENTIFIED

A number of initiatives have been identified as potential SOAR projects from the Draft Action Plan to take forward when Measure 3.5 Village Renewal and Development re-opens. The projects and initiatives have been prioritised using the following criteria:

• The degree to which the potential project matches SOAR funding criteria

• The likelihood of the potential project achieving a high score under the assessment process

• The level of community support the potential project received at the workshop

• The perceived level of benefit that each project will deliver across the community

• The degree to which the potential project complements and delivers added value to current Council initiatives

• The potential deliverability of the project within the timescale

• The desire to deliver a range of projects across the different settlement groups


ACTION PLAN

THEME : COMMUNITY

Issue identified Action Support partners Priority

Increase the volunteer base to support ADCA • Develop a volunteer recruitment strategy Craigavon Borough Council Short /med term

Re-establish links with the Aghalee Community Group

• Make contact with the group

• Explore common problems and opportunities for any

joint initiatives

Craigavon Borough Council Short term

Develop a community history project

• Review support within the community for a local

history group

• Consider as a joint initiative with the Lagan Canal

Trust

Craigavon Borough Council Lagan Canal trust

Medium term

Promote greater involvement of the community

• Review activities to be provided in new community

facilities

• Provide a wider range of events

• Consider resources available to provide a Newsletter

Craigavon Borough Council Short /med term

Provide village notice board

• Support application to SOAR for funding

• Agree location

• Contract procurement and installation

Craigavon Borough Council DRD Roads Service

Short term

Promote greater involvement of younger people in community activities

• Review activities to be provided in the new

community facilities

• Consider recruitment of young people on to the

community group

Craigavon Borough Council Southern Education Library Board

Short /med term

Establish a Neighbourhood Watch scheme

• Review support in the community

• Appoint co-ordinator and consult with PSNI

Craigavon Borough Council PSNI

Short term

Short term under 2 years; medium term up to 5 years; long term over 5 years


ACTION PLAN

THEME : COMMUNITY [continued]


Improvement works to Cranagh & Aghagallon Hall

• Identify needs & outline costs

• Identify funding opportunities


Provide village entrance signs to Derrymore

• Support application to SOAR for funding

• Agreement with DRD Roads Service

• Procurement & installation

Craigavon Borough Council DRD Roads Service

Short term

Extend level of services for the elderly

• Review provision in the new community facilities

• Identify funding requirements of C&A Senior

Citizen’s Club

Craigavon Borough Council

Short term

Retain / expand the mobile library service

• Input into the review being carried out by Libraries

NI

• Promote availability of the existing service &

Homebound Service

Libraries NI Short term

Poor level of public transport

• Promote the availability of DART

• Lobby Translink for an improved service

DART Translink

Short term

Need for a bus shelter in the village

• Review demand and obtain consensus view in the

community

• Request assessment by Craigavon Borough Council

Craigavon Borough Council Short / med term

THEME : SERVICES

Poor level of broadband service • Liaise with North West Electronics

• Liaise with DETI as part of their assessment of poor

level of broadband service

Short term

Short term under 1 year; medium term up to 4 years; long term over 4 years


ACTION PLAN

THEME : COMMUNITY [continued]


Issues with bin collection

• Review with Craigavon Borough Council Craigavon Borough Council Short term

Lack of road gritting in some areas

• Request assessment from DRD Roads Service Short term

Excessive traffic speed at Whitehall Gate

• Request assessment by DRD Roads Service to

extend traffic calming measure

• Request DRD Roads Service to re-locate concealed

speed limit sign

• Request PSNI to continue / extend speed

monitoring

DRD Roads Service PSNI

Short term

Provision of footpath from Aghagallon to Aghallee • Monitor for future opportunities DRD Roads Service Long term

Provision of footpath from village to St Mary’s GAC

• Monitor for future opportunities DRD Roads Service Long term

Provision of footpath to Cranagh Bridge • Monitor for future opportunities DRD Roads Service Long term

Implement various signage improvements

• Request assessment with DRD Roads Service &


DRD Roads Service Craigavon Borough Council

Short term

THEME : TRAFFIC

Whitehall Road / Lurgan Road junction • Request assessment by DRD Roads Service DRD Roads Service Short term



ACTION PLAN

THEME : RECREATION & AMENITY


Need to develop additional youth programmes

• Review opportunities with potential providers

Craigavon Borough Council SELB Public Health Agency

Short / med term

Provision of MUGA to rear of new community facilities

• Monitor decision by NIEA to carry out exploratory dig

• Review potential site with Parish


Craigavon Borough Council NIEA Local Parish

Short / med term

Provision of play space & amenity area

• Review potential site with Parish


Craigavon Borough Council Local parish

Short / med term

Pitch improvements at St Mary’s GAC

• Investigate funding opportunities


Improve recreational potential of Derrymore Quay

• Monitor “Awards for All” grant applicatioin

• Agree improvements with Craigavon Borough Council


Lagan Canal towpath

• Meet with LCT to lobby for the extension of this

section of towpath

Lagan Canal trust Short / med term



ACTION PLAN

THEME : ENVIRONMENT


Problem of fly tipping within surrounding area • Report incidents to carn depot Craigavon Borough

council

Craigavon borough council Short term

Continue to implement a community clean up initiative

• Advertise and promote within the community

• Organise equipment / support from Craigavon

Borough Council


Short term

Improve appearance of village • Establish a Village Improvements Committe

• Identify opportunities for improvement

Craigavon Borough council DRD Roads Service

Short / med term

Problem of dog fouling • Request assessment of need for dog fouling bins

• Review other potential initiatives with Craigavon

Borough Council


THEME : TOURISM


Provide interpretation panels within village to complement the Craigavon Rural Heritage Trail

• Support the SOAR application for funding to provide

interpretation panels in the 8 main villages in the CRHT


Investigate any joint initiatives with owners of Gilbert’s Dam

• Initiate meeting to discuss Short / med term

Promote visitor facilities within the village • Provide cafe / TiP in the new community facility

• Explore any other opportunities

Craigavon Borough Council Tourist Board

Medium term

Promote access from the Lagan Canal to the village • Support the SOAR application for funding to carry out

a Feasibility Study



ACTION PLAN

THEME : TOURISM


Provide interpretation panels within village to complement the Craigavon Rural Heritage Trail

• Support the SOAR application for funding to provide

interpretation panels in the 8 main villages in the CRHT


Investigate any joint initiatives with owners of Gilbert’s Dam

• Initiate meeting to discuss Short / med term

Promote visitor facilities within the village • Provide cafe / TiP in the new community facility

• Explore any other opportunities

Craigavon Borough Council Tourist Board

Medium term

Promote access from the Lagan Canal to the village • Support the SOAR application for funding to carry out

a Feasibility Study




The Craigavon Village Plans project was funded by Craigavon Borough Council. Craigavon Borough Council and MWA partnership would like to thank the following people and organisations for their assistance in the development of this plan:

• Members of community groups and organisations who assisted in the

delivery of the flyers to advertise the workshops.

• Members of the local community who attended and participated in the

workshop.

• Members of the Aghagallon & District Community Association who met with

us to discuss issues relating to the villages

• St Patrick’s Primary School for hosting the workshop

• Local organisations who met with us independently

• Elected Members and Officers of Craigavon Borough Council

• Representatives of DRD Roads Service

www.craigavonvillageplans.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/craigavon.villageplans

APPENDIX 1

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

For further information please contact: Patricia Lappin Rural Development Officer Community Development Craigavon Borough Council Craigavon Civic & Conference Centre Lakeview Road Craigavon BT64 1AL Tel. 012 3831 2563 E-mail: [email protected]

initial draft village plan aghagallon

Documents