Major design study announced for Londonderry

The future development of key sites in the centre of Londonderry city will be the subject of a major design study.

The design study announced today by Minister for Social Development Nigel Dodds is to include Ebrington Barracks and Fort George.

Mr Dodds said: “The production of an Integrated Urban Design Strategic Framework for the centre of Londonderry is a significant and groundbreaking initiative. Good urban design produces real social, commercial and environmental benefits. It improves returns on investment, delivers more lettable space, reduces whole life costs of buildings and increases workforce productivity.

“The Londonderry Development Office has been the driving force behind the significant regeneration that has taken place in the city over recent years. The 'Heart of the City' study was a key proposal from the City Vision 2020 initiative and one which will chart the way ahead from here.

“Historically and architecturally Londonderry is unquestionably one of the country’s most important urban centres. Our desire, working closely in partnership with all the local interested parties, is to create an even more attractive city with high-quality architecture, open spaces and landscaped areas while conserving our natural and built heritage.

“Regeneration has to be planned and developed within a context that meets with the approval of local citizens. The 'Heart of the City' study will seek to continue and build upon the work already completed.”

The Londonderry Development Office of the Department for Social Development has appointed one of Europe’s largest consultancies, WS Atkins, to produce an Urban Design Strategic Framework. The consultancy firm recently completed work on the Cork Area Strategic Plan and the Cork Docklands Development Strategy.

A steering group, set up to manage the production of the framework, includes representatives from the City Council, the Chamber of Commerce, the City Centre Initiative, Londonderry Port & Harbour Commission, North West Architectural Association, Laganside Development Corporation, Planning Service and Roads Service.

Several private and community sector regeneration projects have recently been completed in Londonderry. These include environmental improvements within the Walled City, the opening up of the Riverfront for amenity access and the completion of the new footway and cycle path at Meadowbank.

(SP)