The draft masterplan will give local people an opportunity to view the plans and make further comments on how they want to see the park redeveloped.

These comments will then be added to the final masterplan which will be produced in October 2008.

The masterplan was drawn up following initial public consultation events held in June, with the aim being to give the park a new lease of life.

Possible additions to the park include synthetic five-a-side football pitches, a multi-use games area, a piazza (public square), new play areas, a new pavilion, new car parking, a lake forming part of an education trail, fitness areas, a sculpture trail, an area of open space for events, themed gardens, walks and the rejuvenation of the river.

The project is a joint venture between Craigavon Borough Council and Portadown 2000 as part of the Portadown Development Framework. Leading specialists in urban park design, MWA Partnership, are the consultants.

Letters have been sent to approximately 40 groups in Portadown, inviting them to view the plans and make their opinions heard, while members of the public are also asked to go along with their ideas.

"We want as many people from Portadown as possible to come along, view the draft plans and then let us know what they think," said Councillor Ronnie Harkness, chairman of the Steering Group for the development of the park.

"The draft plan is very exciting so far with many new additions to the park. The People's Park has so much potential and we look forward to fulfilling that and creating a park that all sections of the community can enjoy," he added.

Display boards of the draft drawings will be on show, and representatives from the council, Portadown 2000 and MWA Partnership will be available to answer questions while comment cards will also be available for recording feedback.

Consultations will take place on Tuesday, September 16 in Portadown Town Hall, Wednesday, September 17 in Ashgrove Community Centre and on Thursday, September 18 in Corcrain Community Centre from 4.30pm to 8.30pm each day.

The display will remain in these venues until Wednesday, September 24 so the public can call in during opening hours.
Brian Walker, chairman of Portadown 2000, said, "I believe everyone will agree that these new plans are an extremely positive step forward for the People's Park.

"They promise something for everyone and look set to deliver many benefits for the entire community. It is particularly important to hear feedback at this final stage in the planning process. This will ensure we produce an urban park facility that is truly inspiring to both residents of and visitors to Portadown.

"We hope everyone plays an active part in this final consultation event and look forward to putting this masterplan into development in the months ahead."