Craigavon, NIR - Postcode - BT66 7HA

Craigavon Geographical Description

Southwest of Belfast in Northern Ireland is the city of Craigavon, a new town established there in 1966. It is part of the Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon area. Developed as a commercial, light industrial, and residential hub connecting the older towns of Lurgan and Portadown, the new town of Craigavon was established in accordance with the New Towns Act of 1965. Northern Ireland's first prime minister, James Craig, 1st Viscount Craigavon (1921–40), inspired the town's eponymous name. The idea behind the layout of the new town was to design a city in the middle of the countryside, complete with straight roads within and quick, simple access to the rest of the city. In 1965, work began on what would become the James Craig, 1st Viscount Craigavon Building, named after Northern Ireland's first prime minister. It was supposed to serve as the hub of a new linear city that also included Lurgan and Portadown, but this concept was mostly scrapped and eventually deemed to be flawed.

For many current residents of the area, the name "Craigavon" simply designates the territory between the two cities. A large residential neighborhood (Brownlow), a second smaller one (Mandeville), and a central section (Highfield) that includes a sizable commercial center, a courthouse, and the district council headquarters are spread out around a pair of artificial lakes in this planned community. Trails wind through the woods that surround the lakes, making this area a public park and a haven for wildlife. Water sports facilities, a golf club, and a ski resort may all be found nearby. Motor vehicles are kept well away from walkers and other pedestrian traffic in most of Craigavon thanks to the widespread usage of roundabouts. The previous administration of the Borough Council of Craigavon called the building home.

Craigavon is located on relatively level ground close to the southeast shore of Lough Neagh. Aghacommon is to the north, Lurgan is to the north-east, Corcreeny is to the east, Bleary is to the south-east, and Portadown is to the south-west (southwest). Fields separate it from the other communities nearby. 

The town of Craigavon is situated between two man-made lakes, also known as the Craigavon Lakes. Between the two lakes lies the Portadown-Lurgan railroad, and to the north is the M1 motorway, which is parallel to the railroad. Craigavon Lakes is a nature sanctuary and public park with pathways winding through woods. Fields in Trust recognized it as Northern Ireland's greatest park in 2017. Some nearby residents are unhappy about the recently proposed construction plans, which include a college campus.

Craigavon Economy

Craigavon is a planned town located in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, UK. It was established in the 1960s as a center of industry and commerce for the region, and its economy is primarily based on manufacturing, retail, and services.

One of the major industries in Craigavon is manufacturing, particularly in the areas of engineering, electronics, and textiles. The town is home to a number of manufacturing companies, including Almac Group, a global pharmaceuticals company, and Huhtamaki, a food packaging manufacturer. These companies and others provide employment opportunities for local residents and contribute to the town's economy.

Retail is also an important sector in Craigavon, with a number of shopping centers and retail parks located in the town, including Rushmere Shopping Centre, which is one of the largest shopping centers in Northern Ireland. These shopping centers and retail parks provide a range of employment opportunities in retail, hospitality, and services.

The town also has a significant services sector, including professional services such as accounting and legal services, as well as health care and social assistance services. There are also a number of small businesses and independent retailers operating in Craigavon, particularly in the town center and surrounding areas.

Tourism is not a major sector in Craigavon, but the town is located within easy reach of several major tourist attractions in Northern Ireland, including the Mourne Mountains, the Giant's Causeway, and Belfast City. The town also has a number of parks and green spaces, including Craigavon Lakes, which are popular destinations for outdoor recreation.

Overall, the economy of Craigavon is primarily based on manufacturing, retail, and services, with some small businesses and independent retailers operating in the town as well.

Craigavon Tourism

Craigavon is a city in Northern Ireland that is home to a number of tourist attractions, including:

Craigavon Civic Centre: This striking building is the seat of local government and is known for its distinctive architecture.

Craigavon Lake: This picturesque lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Slieve Gullion Forest Park: This scenic forest park offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Ulster American Folk Park: This open-air museum tells the story of Irish emigration to the United States.

The Armagh Observatory: This observatory offers visitors the chance to learn about astronomy and stargaze through its powerful telescopes.

In addition to these attractions, Craigavon is also home to a number of historical sites, including:

Ballymore Castle: This Norman castle is one of the best-preserved in Northern Ireland.

The Red Arch: This 18th-century archway is one of the few remaining examples of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The Battle of the Diamond Visitor Centre: This visitor center tells the story of the Battle of the Diamond, which was a decisive victory for the United Irishmen in 1798.

Craigavon is also a popular destination for shopping and dining, with a number of malls and restaurants to choose from.

If you are planning a visit to Craigavon, be sure to check out the Craigavon Visitor Centre for more information on the city's attractions and events.