This week Cllr Haughey, who is Chair of Armagh Council’s Internal Scrutiny Committee, revealed details of an exciting development plan for Poyntzpass which will deliver key services for the area.
Cllr Haughey said, “Since my election in 2005 I have been working very hard to deliver play and recreation facilities for the Poyntzpass area as this is something that has been identified as a real need for the area. Poyntzpass has a growing young population and its important that we have the service and facilities to meet the needs of local people.
“I have been working with Cllr Robert Turner for the last six years trying to identify suitable land for the play area. Unfortunately all options that were explored were unaffordable and that is why we were unable to deliver a play park. We did however maintain a funding commitment from council for the project year after year.
“I am now pleased to confirm that we have worked up a development plan for Poyntzpass which will deliver play and recreational provisions, new gateway features and new public toilets.
“We hope this scheme will be developed around the railway line to regenerate that area of the ‘pass while delivering essential services for the entire community. We are currently in talks with NI Railways to get them onboard and to secure tenure of the land.
“This development plan will compliment the plans for redevelopment of the Handball Alley, which I have been supporting Poyntzpass Community and Regeneration Group with.
“This is very exciting news and over the coming months there will be community consultation and that the plans will be finalised, external funding secured and at long last play and recreational facilities will be a reality for the people of Poyntzpass.”