Investment For Alpha Glass Studio

A funding package of £547,000 has been announced to refurbish the former Alpha Glass Studio in L'derry.

The building, which is located at the corner of Magazine Street and Castle Street, was previously used as a glass-making workshop for Alphaglass Ltd. The firm still own the building and the confirmed funding will help to restore the site and bring it back into use, with shop units filling the ground floor while apartments will be above.

Baldies Barbers, who have temporarily relocated in order to allow the refurbishment to be carried out, will also move back to the building once the works are completed.

Welcoming the news, Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland said: "The project is one of many that my Department has been involved with, which aims to restore historically significant buildings in Londonderry. The project will include a residential element as I believe that encouraging town centre living is key to sustainable regeneration in the future."

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan added: "Today's announcement is a significant boost for Derry's Built Heritage. The ongoing work being carried out to renovate the Coyle Building will both promote commercial and residential opportunities within the city centre. Crucially, the renovation will ensure the ongoing use of this significant building, which is located within the Historic City Conservation Area."

(JP)