A SAFER TOWN
In November 2000 an 8-camera CCTV system was introduced to Banbridge Town Centre, strategically located to be effective throughout the day and night. According to two reports on the system, 46% of respondents felt that Banbridge had become safer as a result of the CCTV cameras, 63% felt the cameras helped to prevent crime and 59% felt that the cameras help to catch criminals. As a result 46% of respondents were more likely to use the town in the daytime and evening. The scheme has been so successful that an additional camera has been introduced to the town centre covering the area adjacent to the new cinema/ theatre complex..

See Future Projects for plans on a radio link scheme.

A GOOD EXPERIENCE
The town centre music system, first piloted in Newry Street in December
2001, has proved a huge success. Now extended to Bridge Street, a selection of music from classical to country and easy listening pop to Christmas tunes is played throughout the year at the busiest shopping times:

POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT
Between 2001 and 2002 huge effort went into improving the general
environment in the town centre. Falling into 2 distinct phases the following environmental improvements have been completed in the main shopping areas:

• widened pedestrian-friendly pavements,
• new pelican crossings,
• traffic calming features,
• new high quality paving, lighting and street furniture,
• the creation of an avenue of trees along the full length of the two
  main streets (Newry and Bridge streets),
• new car park access direct from the main shopping area.

Everyone is benefiting from these developments but the work hasn't stopped.
Phase 3, completed in Summer 2004, has seen the scheme extended to include Church Square, one of the oldest parts of the town centre.

This phase has continued the work already undertaken in Bridge Street and Newry Street. It complements the environmental improvements already made and ensures that the lower part of town is equally as attractive as the rest. The latest phase includes upgraded paved pedestrian areas, tree planting, stylish safety railings and improved Crozier Monument setting.
Also included in the third phase of the scheme is the creation of a pedestrian area located off one of the busier shopping streets. The aim is to create an attractive square and provide much needed civic space in Banbridge Town Centre. On completion it is hoped that further private investment will occur in this part of town, as has been seen in other parts of Banbridge.

ADVERTISING & PROMOTION
In association with the Town Centre Manager, the Regeneration Company works with traders to prepare co-ordinated advertising campaigns throughout the year. To date these have included;

• New Christmas Lighting schemes throughout the town centre
• Shopping voucher booklets distributed by Royal Mail to households throughout the district.
• Press advertising at key times for retailers
• Schools Promotions and competitions
• Town centre events