Boost Our Borough

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant and unprecedented impact on our local economy, causing many businesses in our borough to face new and complex challenges.

The impact of closures, uncertain public With strict public health and social distancing health environment, and the economic pressures on our citizens, will have a longlasting effect on businesses and the local restrictions the new norm, we understand how we do business and how we shop has changed. economy for many years. Helping address the concerns of our local businesses, From the onset of the pandemic, we have played a leading role in liaising with key economic stakeholders, engaging with residents and visitors is a key priority for us, which is why we are leading on the development and implementation of a borough wide business revitalisation initiative. local businesses and delivering awareness campaigns to stimulate investment during this crucially important time. We have also championed the importance of local residents to support local businesses to help sustain employment and revive the economy. In partnership with our key statutory partners, the recovery campaign is helping support the safe trading practices for our rural and urban businesses, ensuring the protection of customers and staff. Through our Covid-19 Revitalisation Grant Fund, many of our local businesses have received financial assistance to In June we launched the ‘Boost Our Borough’ awareness campaign, in which ‘Bob’ encouraged local residents and people from outside the support investment in projects and equipment to address some of the operational challenges brought on by the pandemic. borough to show their support for our local business community. Bob’s shop local, dine local and stay local messages showcased all aspects of the borough’s To hear more about the initiatives email regen@armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk economy in a fun and engaging way, creating a lot of interest.

Pavement cafés are becoming a familiar sight across the UK and Ireland, helping foster the rise of a new continental-style café culture.

Already known to have positive effects on the vibrancy and vitality of urban centres, they are now playing an important role in helping support businesses recover from the Covid-19 pandemic right here in the borough.

Introducing the option for businesses to apply for a pavement café licence since July, we have been helping support our local hospitality businesses get back on their feet as safely as possible. Experiencing a significant dent to their capacity due to public health and social distancing restrictions, local businesses offering food and drink can now apply free of charge for a licence, helping them reclaim some of those lost profit margins.

With the placement of temporary tables, chairs, umbrellas and heaters in outdoor public spaces, we are committed to safeguarding the interests of all pedestrians, in particular those with mobility needs as well as blind and visually impaired pavement users. To ensure everyone’s safety all licensees will receive clear instructions on size, layout and boundaries.

Approved temporary pavement café licences will be

granted until 31 December 2021.

Further information on the new initiative and how to apply here armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/pavementcafe Life may have been on pause recently but now as restrictions have eased, you can begin to explore the borough’s beautiful outdoors, countryside, attractions and discover our historic landmarks once more.

From the historic Navan Centre & Fort to the scenic southern shores of Lough Neagh along the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, our borough is home to some of Northern Ireland’s best havens, and many hidden gems perfect for relaxation, recreation and outdoor pursuits.

Discover and rediscover a love for our borough, experience the exceptional and award-winning service from our local guest houses, hotels, bars and restaurants and enjoy a relaxing staycation where you can take in the heritage, culture and savour some delicious foodie delights. Or why not try one of our staycation itineraries, which will see you dust down your walking boots and bicycles to meander your way through the stunning local landscapes. With so much to see and do right on your doorstep, you’re guaranteed an exceptional experience in this remarkable place.

Working closely with Tourism Northern Ireland, we will be promoting a wide variety of things to do, see and enjoy. Discover it all here visitarmagh.com