We are delighted to share that the Dromore Place Plan was launched on Wednesday the 7th May at Dromore Community Centre, setting out a vision and priorities for the future to create a unique market town that is rich in built and natural heritage and primed for strategic growth.
The Dromore Place Plan will enhance Dromore’s social, economic and environmental wellbeing for generations to come.
Dromore, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a historic market town. The Place Plan is a significant initiative aimed at revitalizing the town through comprehensive community engagement and strategic development. The Plan will enhance Dromore’s social, economic and environmental wellbeing. Shaping and transforming it into a greater, better and more beautiful town than it is today.
Developed by the Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Community Planning Partnership, the plan reflects the input of over 1078 local residents and stakeholders, ensuring it aligns with the community’s aspirations for the future of the town. This collaborative approach ensured that the Plan reflects the genuine needs and aspirations of those who live and work in Dromore.
HLM Architects were appointed by the Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Community Planning Partnership to develop the Dromore Place Plan, aimed at revitalizing the town through community engagement and strategic development. Working alongside the Partnership we provided several key services which have lead to the successful launch of the Dromore Place Plan, including: Public Engagement, Data Collection and Analysis, Place Plan Creation, Public Consultation.
Dromore, the Place Plan encourages everyone to be active, connect with the community and discover everything that this charming town has to offer.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Kyle Savage said: “An extensive collaborative process with the local people, businesses and groups has helped to create this visionary Place Plan for Dromore. It recognises distinct challenges, exciting opportunities and unique characteristics to be celebrated within the town. As a council, we are committed to ensuring that this shared vision and action plan is used as a tool to secure a vibrant, thriving and environmentally responsible town.”
The Dromore Place Plan outlines a strategic vision for the place, detailing five outcomes which are aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the residents, preserving the unique character of the area whilst stimulating economic growth. Six thematic clusters comprising of 37 suggested actions, serve as a road map for the Community Planning partners, stakeholders, businesses and local community groups to collaborate to develop Dromore into the future.
The four big ideas include: Tackling Vacancy and Dereliction (breathing life into underutilised spaces to create vibrant hubs for community and business); Development Potential of Quillyburn (exploring opportunities to transform these lands into a thriving new space unlocking economic growth); Dromore Viaduct (restoring this historic landmark to promote heritage, recreation and community use); Active Riversides (enhancing links between the River Lagan and the town’s assets).
Sinead Collins, Vice Chair of Place Board Sub Committee said: “We were delighted with the response from the people based in Dromore, which had one of the highest engagement rates. Engaging with the people who live and work here gives them the opportunity to play a proactive role in defining the future of their town. By coming together, different stakeholders can work towards mutually beneficial projects for the betterment of Dromore, leading to a place that is more reflective of the people of that place.”
Chris McNabb, Associate said: “Our work focuses on creating places where people can live, work, and thrive. This plan captures Dromore’s potential and charts a path for regeneration that respects its heritage while looking towards the future. We’re proud to have played a part in shaping the Dromore Place Plan and are excited to see it progress, develop, and make a lasting impact for the local community.”
Keynote speaker at the event was Joe Mahon, from the ‘Mahon’s Way’ television series, which sees Joe travel the length and breadth of Northern Ireland exploring the heritage, history and culture which makes this place so unique. Joe spoke about the importance of profiling your place and celebrating some of Dromore’s unique assets including the Viaduct, the Motte and Bailey and the River Lagan, which will also feature in the Mahon’s Way autumn series.
Regardless of your connection to Dromore, the Place Plan encourages everyone to be active, connect with the community and discover everything that this charming town has to offer.
