Construction to begin on Derry's Inner Walled City Public Realm project

Construction is to commence on the Inner Walled City Public Realm Scheme in Derry.

The works, which are due to start in summer 2024 and will last for approximately 18 months, will transform Bank Place, Union Hall Place, Magazine Street, Palace Street and Society Street, providing a fitting setting for the Historic City Walls.

The Department for Communities has recently appointed FP McCann as the contractor for the scheme, which will use high quality materials such as Caithness for footways and granite setts for the carriageways.

The works will also upgrade street lighting and install high quality street furniture, and an artist is currently being procured to design artistic bollards to be used at two locations.

Following a consultation process with local stakeholders, it has also been agreed to retain the 20-space car park at Society Street.

Welcoming the start of the works, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: “It is fantastic to see construction commence on this hugely important project for the city.

"My Department’s investment of over £5m for this significant Public Realm project, right in the heart of the city centre, will transform the appearance of the streetscapes next to the iconic City Walls.

"It will also encourage more visitors and tourists to the area, providing a welcome boost for the local economy.”