Construction of new Derry maritime museum expected to begin next spring

The new museum aims to showcase the historic maritime importance, including its role as a vital naval base during the Second World War.

placeholder image — The new museum aims to showcase the historic maritime importance, including its role as a vital naval base during the Second World War.

Construction of the new DNA civic museum at Ebrington is expected to begin in the spring of 2024 with an anticipated opening in the spring of 2026, it has been confirmed.

Sinn Féin MLA Ciara Ferguson said the museum, which will explain the story of Derry from its early origins to the 20th century using a maritime theme, will be transformational for tourism across the entire north-west region.

The Foyle MLA commented: "I am delighted that the final businesses cases for the museum have now been approved by the Department of Finance. The final £5 million allocation from the Future Fund was spearheaded by Conor Murphy when he was Finance Minister and has unlocked a further £7 million of support from a range of other funders.

“The appointment of TourismNI as the project sponsor also followed intensive engagement between Sinn Féin in Derry and Executive departments.

"It means all the elements are now in place to allow work to finally commence on this long anticipated project which will enhance the regeneration of the Ebrington site and also massively increase tourism footfall in the north west.

“I look forward to its launch in 2026."