Suspension of Growth Deal for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council 'undermines hard work' of local stakeholders in Dungiven

Glenshane Community Development Ltd has expressed 'deep concern and disappointment' over the recent decision by the Labour Government to suspend the Growth Deal for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

Westminster was due to provide approximately 50 per cent of funding for nine Growth Deal projects in the borough which included the regeneration of Dungiven town centre and digital hub.

This decision comes despite the head of terms being signed on April 24 this year and the Dungiven-based organisation says it 'signals a significant setback for the community’s development and future prosperity'.

The Growth Deal was poised to bring substantial investment and opportunities to encourage economic growth, job creation and enhanced infrastructure.

Mairead McCormack, the Chief Executive of Glenshane Community Development Ltd, said the suspension of this deal 'undermines the hard work and collaborative efforts of local stakeholders who have been dedicated to driving positive change and the development of Dungiven, including all those who have participated in the consultation process over the past number of years'.

"I am immensely disheartened by the Labour Government’s decision to suspend the Growth Deal,” Ms McCormack said.

“By halving the budget, this move not only stalls critical projects but could also jeopardise the future economic and social development of the town. After decades of Dungiven failing to meet the threshold for public realm works since Glenshane completed the last public realm programme in 1996-998, the Growth Deal represented a beacon of hope for Dungiven, promising much-needed investment and development.

“Glenshane Community Development Ltd. remains committed to advocating for the needs and aspirations of our community. Our dedication to enabling a vibrant, thriving community remains unwavering.”