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The Local Government Act (NI) requires Councils to ensure continuous improvement whilst carrying out their functions and delivering services. Councils are also required to set improvement objectives and put in place arrangements to achieve these.

Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council is keen to ensure performance objectives have a positive impact on the quality of life for stakeholders across our Borough.

Council carried out a consultation to seek views on our draft performance improvement objectives for 2025 - 2026. The consultation closed on 03 April 2025 with 23 responses. Responses received were from both individuals and organisations and an analysis of the results shows that 78% to 96% of respondents agreed with our proposed objectives giving the assurance that the proposals are appropriate for the year ahead.

The suggestions, comments and feedback received have been passed to the relevant departments for consideration in line with business plans and service delivery plans.

The section below provides a brief update on how Council currently addresses the matters raised from the feedback. We recognise there is more work to be done and are committed to improving in these areas, as outlined within the Performance Improvement Plan 2025-26.

We Asked: Do you agree that the proposed Performance Improvement Objectives are appropriate for our Borough?

Objective 1 - We will reduce the number of days sickness absence lost per employee - 96% agreed we should do this.

You said: Suggestions from feedback included better access to healthcare professionals including mental health support, a review of the Absence Policy and inclusion of a Disability Passport.

We did: The management of staff absence will continue to be a priority for Council in 2025-26 with a focus on tackling the main reasons for absence. Council will also continue to benchmark itself against other organisations and research areas of best practice and implement accordingly.

Various health and wellbeing initiatives have been rolled out to help and positively support staff with mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.  The mental health first aiders will continue to be promoted to staff.  Council also has a section on the intranet dedicated to Health & Wellbeing for all staff.

The Attendance Management Policy has been reviewed and is in effect from 1^st April 2025. The ongoing implementation of Personal Development Conversations (PDC’s) ensures that Line Managers take time to speak with staff and ensure they are given the opportunity to address any concerns and identify any additional help and support they may want.

Council has improved access to sickness absence data at line manager level allowing them to effectively monitor trends and react to matters in a timelier way. Sickness absence is regularly reviewed and reported at senior management level.

Objective 2 - We will reduce Council’s environmental impact through the development and implementation of a Climate & Sustainability Action Plan. 78% agreed we should do this.

You said: Responses to this performance improvement objective included suggestions for Council to adopt more green initiatives, such as installing solar panels, planting trees, and promoting sustainable travel. Respondents also expressed a desire for greater visibility of the positive work being undertaken in relation to sustainability. However, some concerns were raised about the potential impact on existing services and rates due to the increased investment in these initiatives.

We did: Council has identified climate action as a priority within the Corporate Plan, and within the Climate, Sustainability & Parks Business Plan for 2025-26. This is acknowledged as a long-term objective that will require dedicated and specialised resources. Where feasible, Council will pursue and seek funding for renewable energy projects and energy efficiency initiatives.

The introduction of the Climate Change (Reporting Bodies) Regulations (NI) 2024 places a duty on local councils to regularly report on carbon adaptation and mitigation.

Council is committed to delivering a Climate & Sustainability Action Plan that protects our environment, improves public services, and benefits residents across the borough. From expanding cycle paths and promoting renewable energy like solar, to enhancing biodiversity through tree planting and reduced grass cutting, our initiatives are designed to build a more sustainable future while safeguarding value for the ratepayer. This action plan will be monitored and reported on regularly.

Objective 3 - We will improve our Waste Management Services through the implementation of technological solutions and continued communications. 96% agreed we should do this.

You said: Feedback from respondents included that they would like more detail on the technological solutions being implemented; more consultation with operational staff that deal with residences on the impact of pilot schemes and more communication on recycling including composting and how to be more sustainable. Some respondents expressed concern on increased waste disposal costs and the impact on rates.

We did: Council continues to consider all new technologies and waste disposal techniques in our ongoing efforts to improve the service with due regard to environmental considerations and the current market conditions in N. Ireland. Detailed examples of the technological solutions are included in our Waste Management Plan and Addendum which will be published following the publication of DAERA’s Waste Management Strategy. As an example, we are in the process of implementing an in cab digital data information system as part of the Environmental Services improvement project.

The Environmental Services Department now works closely with Design and Communication team to provide a bespoke communication plan for all our service improvements. The waste section on the council website is continually reviewed to ensure accurate and up to date information is available to residents and there is a dedicated section on the website for commercial waste has been developed.

We are currently reviewing the Monthly Brown Bin Collection Pilot scheme and will consider all issues including tonnage yield, participation and recycling rates before extending this scheme further. We currently provide free home composters to residents (upon request), along with advice and support for those new to composting.

Council is continually striving to improve the waste management service in terms of environmental factors and value for money.

Objective 4 - We will improve communications with our customers on Council services and responsibilities - 96% agreed we should do this.

You said: Feedback from respondents on this objective included several comments around clear communications on the website detailing contact details and roles and responsibilities within and outside council. Another comment included the suggestion for elected members to be fully briefed on what is within the remit of council and what is not.

We did: As part of the agreed actions for this improvement objective, Council’s website will be reviewed and will include a user-friendly section that outlines Council’s services and responsibilities.  

Council acknowledges the feedback received with regards to the importance of effective external and internal communications.  To address this, over the next 12-month period, agreed generic Departmental emails addresses for Council Departments will be profiled on the Council website.  The website section will also outline each Department’s core responsibilities. 

We will provide contact details or links to other public bodies/ external organisations responsible for those services that fall outside of Council responsibility. 

Each Department will also regularly review staff contact details, to maintain and update the staff directory and intranet, ensuring effective access and improved communications for staff.

Council will continue to use social media channels to send out communications to customers at prescribed times in relation to Council services and responsibilities.

A comprehensive induction is carried out with all new councillors on the roles and responsibilities of Council.  As part of this individual sessions are arranged with the Chief Executive and all Directors on the work of each of their departments.

We also asked you for feedback on where we could improve generally.

You said: In response to us asking for further suggestions for improvement, we received a suggestion to remove legacy signage that is still up around the borough.

Council’s Estates & Asset Management Department confirms new borough boundary signage was erected during 2022. All legacy borough Boundary signage was replaced in situ locations. Roll out of replacement of signage is ongoing and being delivered on a phased approach as part of the capital programme, the next stage being considered will be the replacement of signage within all Tier 1 town locations which includes Lurgan, Armagh, Portadown, Banbridge and Dromore.

As part of the Home of St Patrick Festival we asked for your thoughts and opinions in relation to a variety of areas including the overall programme, opportunities for improvement and other considerations. 

From the responses provided,The Home of St Patrick Festival received positive feedback for its inclusivity and variety of events, catering to diverse audiences. Many attendees highlighted the enjoyable atmosphere, excellent music, and well-organized activities.

The information has now been compiled and will be reviewed by the Events Team in relation to preparations for the 2026 programme and beyond. 

Heritage Places Survey Summary

Between October 14 and December 20, 2024, we conducted a borough-wide survey to understand what heritage means to people in Armagh, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough. We received an incredible 217 responses, offering deep insights into the community’s connection with heritage and their hopes for its future. 

Who Took Part?
90.32% of respondents were individuals, showing strong personal interest and 8.29% responded on behalf of an organisation, project, or group.

How Important is Heritage?
An overwhelming 89.4% of respondents said heritage is very important/ important to them. This reflects a strong cultural pride and a desire to protect and celebrate the borough’s unique history.

What Aspects of Heritage Matter Most?
Respondents ranked the most important elements of heritage, with the highest priorities being:
1.    Landscapes & Natural Spaces (95.86%)
2.    History (95.85%)
3.    Historic Buildings (94.47%)
4.    Traditions & Practices (93.09%)
5.    Craft Skills & People (91.71%)
6.    Arts & Culture (91.7%)
7.    Nature & Biodiversity (91.25%)
8.    Archaeology & Local Stories (89.4%)
9.    Music (88.02%)
10.    Food & Drink (84.34%)
11.    Celebrating Diverse Heritage (82.95%)
12.    Sporting Heritage (73.74%)
13.    Language (71.43%)

We are continue to progress with the results of this survey and are taking the feedback on board. We will endeavour to include this feedback into our future plans.