Third Bridge Over Foyle Confirmed

Plans for a third bridge across Londonderry's River Foyle have been described as another positive dimension to creating a 'shared city'.

Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie confirmed details of the footbridge scheme in a letter to SDLP party colleague, and Foyle MP, Mark Durkan, (pictured).

The foot and cycle bridge will stretch from Guildhall on the Cityside to Ebrington on the Waterside.

Mr Durkan welcomed the bridge as a positive step for the city.

He said: "In many ways we will have a cross-river city centre created.

"That is one of the reasons it has secured funding from the EU peace programme, because it is seen as really creating an extra dimension in terms of trying to create a shared city," added the SDLP Leader.

Meanwhile, the Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has also welcomed plans to build a third bridge across the River Foyle.

Mr McGuinness said: "This innovative and iconic bridge project that has been announced today and which will provide a lasting legacy for the city.

"This will be the third bridge over the river, and one which I see as a tangible step in linking the two sides of the city by providing an opportunity for people to access both the newly developed shared open space at Ebrington and come right into the heart of the city centre near the Guildhall."

(PR/JM)