77 Jobs Announced For L'Derry

A total of 77 jobs are to be created in L'Derry, it has been confirmed.

The jobs were unveiled as work gets underway on two historic buildings in the area. The buildings are being transformed into boutique hotels.

The former Northern Counties Club on Bishop Street is being converted into a 31-bed hotel, and will consist of a restaurant, cookery school and two retail units; while a former bank building in Shipquay Street will be transformed into a 20-bed hotel with a bar and lounge area for both residents and non-residents.

The work will be carried out by Conway Brothers Construction and is expected to be completed by late summer 2015. Both projects have received funding from the Department for Social Development. Works started on the Shipquay Street site in October 2014; these are due to be completed by the end of March 2015.

Welcoming the announcement, Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey said: "These ambitious and forward thinking projects will regenerate two iconic listed buildings into first class boutique hotels.

"This is a fantastic addition to the city's selection of hotels which will help build on the legacy of the UK City of Culture, encouraging visitors to come and see Londonderry's many attractions."

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan added: "It is fitting that these important projects in Bishop Street and Shipquay Street will now proceed as a result of funding from my Department, DSD and the efforts of the Inner City Trust.

"Derry's built heritage is a unique attraction for tourists and investors and a source of pride for locals. It is important that we strive together to realise its full potential. My Department is committed to working with a wide range of partners to ensure that this is achieved."

(JP/MH)