Eight new food spots to try this Christmas

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Whether you’re planning a special evening out with loved ones, or just need a pit stop during the Christmas shopping, here are some exciting new eateries in Derry and Strabane for you to try this festive season.

Stitch & Weave

Gift yourself stunning views at this new bar and restaurant on Ebrington Square, overlooking Derry’s River Foyle and Peace Bridge.

Enjoy seasonal dishes with local produce, treat your friends to a Prosecco ‘tower’, or order a warming glass of the restaurant’s own newly-launched whiskey, Cask 1782.

Clipper Quay Street Food Market

Does your Christmas crew struggle to agree on what kind of food they’re after? Avoid a festive fallout and head to this bustling Derry street food market, where there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes.

Think juicy smash burgers from Notorious Street Food, giant New York-style pizza slices from Cugino’s, and delicious sweet crepes from Scoops Ahoy, all with views of the River Foyle.

Social Studio

As the name suggests, the atmosphere is as good as the food in this lively restaurant in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter.

Fuel up ahead of some present shopping with the Brunchin’ and Lunchin’ daytime menu, or make an evening of it with dinner and drinks from the extensive cocktail menu.

Café Central

When you purchase coffee, cake or lunch from this Bishop Street café, the money you spend will help women and families supported by its parent charity, Foyle Women’s Aid.

There are some delicious Christmas specials on the menu, and don’t forget to pick up a loyalty card – with the lovely atmosphere, great service and delicious food, you’re sure to be back again.

The Thirsty Filly

This cute and cosy café, located at the Old Schoolhouse in Strabane, serves hot drinks, homebakes and an epic festive toastie with all the trimmings, on Scarpello sourdough.

Left your Christmas shopping to the last minute? There are New Kid coffee beans, reusable cups and cafetieres on sale too – the perfect gift for any coffee aficionado.

The Banks Restaurant

Also in Strabane is award-winning restaurant The Banks, overlooking the banks of the River Mourne. Enjoy the view as you tuck into lunch or dinner with locally sourced, seasonal dishes.

You can even treat yourself to an overnight stay at The Banks, in one of the tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms above the restaurant.

Castle Bistro

From its new home in Derry’s Craft Village, the Castle Bistro serves up brunch, dinner and cocktails, plus some lip-smacking vegan options.

There are paintings by local artists on the walls, local ingredients on your plate, and local spirits and beers on the drinks menu too.

Oui Bakery

You’ll often find a queue outside Oui Bakery, also in the Craft Village – and once you’ve tried its beautiful bakes, it’s easy to see why.

Parisian chef Laurent Pirone pours decades of expertise into his creations – which include almond croissants, pains au chocolat, sourdough loaves and the seriously indulgent white chocolate and pistachio spiral rolls.

Treat your loved ones – and yourself – to a ‘oui’ treat this Christmas!

If that’s got you in the mood to try out some more of the fantastic restaurants and cafes in the North West, the entire month of February is dedicated to showcasing the LegenDerry food and drink on offer locally.

During Love LegenDerry Food Month, a variety of events and experiences will be held across Derry and Strabane to promote the region’s outstanding food and drink, and the people who produce it.  

The programme includes a range of unique events created by food producers and chefs to showcase the high-quality produce that can be found throughout the region including a Dart Mountain Cheese tour and taste experience which will take you into the heart of the Sperrins to visit Derry’s award-winning artisan cheese producer, the Oyster and Stout Festival celebrating the Lough Foyle Native Oyster, and the launch of the city’s newest food tour, Derry By Fork.

For more information on Love LegenDerry, visit  www.legenderryfood.com/events 

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Seating Matters to expand clinical manufacturing facility with 62 jobs across Limavady and Derry

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Economy Minister Conor Murphy has announced that Seating Matters is investing £3.7 million in its manufacturing facilities in Limavady and Derry as part of its ambitious expansion plan to triple turnover by 2027.

Seating Matters is a globally recognised leader in therapeutic seating design and manufacturing. The new investment will be made over the next two years and will lead to the creation of 62 new jobs, strengthening the company’s position as a key regional employer. 

Pictured (L-R) are Martin Tierney, Managing Director, Seating Matters; Economy Minister, Conor Murphy; George McKinney, Director of Technology, Services and Scaling at Invest Northern Ireland
A key priority in my Economic Plan is building a regionally balanced economy with high-quality jobs. I am delighted that these new roles in the North West will offer excellent employment opportunities for the local community.
Conor Murphy
Minisiter for the Economy

Making the announcement while visiting the company’s Limavady site Minister Murphy said: “A key priority in my Economic Plan is building a regionally balanced economy with high-quality jobs. I am delighted that these new roles in the North West will offer excellent employment opportunities for the local community.

“In recent years, Seating Matters has invested in advanced technologies to boost productivity which has contributed to its growth. This latest investment will further expand its capacity and enable it to produce even more products efficiently. I’m also pleased that Seating Matters is driven by continuous improvement in its drive for sustainability and efficiency.”

The new facility will be a manufacturing centre of excellence and will build upon the company’s current expertise in lean manufacturing.

Martin Tierney, Managing Director at Seating Matters said: “This investment supports our ambitious growth strategy to triple our turnover by 2027. With increased production capacity and over 60 new staff, we will be ready to scale rapidly and further ourselves as an award-winning exporter known for products which dramatically impact the lives of the most dependent patients in our society, and the people who care for them.”  

“We are growing rapidly in global markets and set our sights on further export growth in Europe, North America and Australia. Our deep understanding of patients’ medical conditions, the caregivers needs in providing care and the latest clinical research will give us a competitive edge to do this.”

Welcoming the expansion, George McKinney, Invest NI’s Director of Technology, Services and Scaling said: “Since 2008, Invest NI has worked with Seating Matters to achieve ambitious growth targets. Today’s announcement is a testament to those efforts and will bring 62 new jobs to the North West, contributing to a regionally balanced economy.

“This investment will provide Seating Matters with the team, skills, and operational efficiencies needed to achieve its goal of tripling turnover by 2027. It also underscores Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a centre of advanced engineering excellence.”

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€77m PEACEPLUS funding awarded to transform six cross-community facilities for thousands of people

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€77m (£65m) of PEACEPLUS funding has been awarded to transform six community facilities and public spaces in Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. 

Among the exciting and wide-ranging new cross-community initiatives to receive funding are the conversion of a former military barracks site into a sport, wellbeing and shared learning centre; the creation of a huge ‘Air Dome’ indoor arena in the North-West; and a significant investment at a North Belfast interface to enhance shared space and connectivity between local communities.

Six projects were successful in their bids for investment through PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).

Thousands of people are expected to benefit from the new facilities when completed and it is hoped they will bring people together, promote better understanding and trust, and provide communities with improved services and infrastructure. 

The successful projects included within this round of PEACEPLUS funding are:

  • The Centre of Participation Wellbeing & Shared Learning Hub (€15.4m) – a 30-acre complex based at the former military barracks site owned by the UK Ministry of Defence in Ballykinlar, Co Down. Led by Down Gaelic Athletic Association in partnership with County Down Rural Community Network and Co-Operation Ireland, the project will see the construction of a new two-storey complex building to include a heritage and shared learning space, and a new 2,000-square-metre multi-purpose games arena (MUGA)
  • UU Dome (€10.86m) – Led by Ulster University, this project will transform the old Foyle College site in the city of Derry-Londonderry into a regionally significant and inclusive shared space that will generate significant, meaningful and purposeful contact between different communities. The site, which is currently vacant and disused, will see the development of an ‘Air Dome’ facility comprising of a 15,000 square metre year-round indoor arena with synthetic playing field and capacity for thousands of spectators.
  • Reconnected Belfast (€13.5m) – Focused on the Waterworks and Alexandra Park in North Belfast, the project will see further progress towards the removal of peace walls and enhancement of green space for use by local residents, community organisations and schools. Led by Belfast City Council in partnership with the Department of Justice, Reconnected Belfast is part of a strategic connectivity project which aims to make Belfast a fully sustainably connected city via a series of greenways, urban greenways, and pocket parks.
  • The Riverine 2023 (€16.7m) shared space – spanning both Lifford in Co Donegal and Strabane in Co Tyrone, the project will include the creation of 30 acres of parklands and a new community pavilion building, developed through a cross-border partnership between Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council.
  • The Ballycastle Shared Space Project (€5.2m), which will see the enhancement of sports facilities on the grounds of the planned Shared Education Campus (SEC) in the town, providing community access and shared usage between the school and the local community for sport, leisure and recreation purposes. The project will be led by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in partnership with the Department for Education.
  • The Shannonside Peace Arena (€15.3m) in Carrick-on-Shannon. Led by Leitrim County Council in partnership with Shannonside Regional Recreational Campus, the project will create a new inclusive shared space with a co-designed, sustainable building which facilitate meaningful and purposeful contact between different communities. The development will include a double-height multi-use sports hall and high-performance gym.
  • Reconnecting Belfast
  • Inside UU Dome
  • Centre of Participation, Wellbeing & Shared Learning Hub
  • Shannonside
  • Centre of Participation, Wellbeing & Shared Learning Hub
  • Riverine Bridge

All six projects are to be funded under the Special EU Programme Body’s Re-Imaging Communities investment area, which is part of the €1.14bn PEACEPLUS programme.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA said: “I am delighted that the PEACEPLUS Steering Committee has approved funding for six projects under the Re-Imaging Communities Investment Area of the PEACEPLUS Programme.

“It is my ambition to deliver policies and programmes that will have real and meaningful impact, that are sustainable and that will provide tangible, lasting benefits. 

“My department has previously supported 25 capital builds under the Shared Spaces element of the PEACE III and PEACE IV Programmes which were delivered in partnership with the Special European Union Programmes Body. These projects have clearly demonstrated the many positive impacts such investments can have across society. I am therefore pleased that we are able to build on this success by supporting these new shared spaces.

“I want to congratulate each of the projects on their achievement in securing funding for their proposals.”

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys TD said: “We have witnessed the benefits from the development of these shared spaces under the various PEACE programmes, which have brought about real change through the repurposing of lands, the reimaging of existing buildings and spaces, creating new parks and infrastructure and regenerating peace line interface barriers. 

“These shared spaces, which are stunning to look at, have a huge transformational impact and support economic and tourism opportunities in the region, while also ensuring the bringing together of all communities into a safe neutral space and I am sure this programme will be no different. 

“I want to commend all the applicants for the time and effort that went into drafting the applications received under this funding call, which was hugely over-subscribed.

“I wish all the success applicants the very best of luck in getting their projects underway for the benefit of all in their communities and surrounding hinterlands.  I am delighted that my Department of Rural and Community Development will be partnering with the Department for Communities in Northern Ireland and the Special EU Programmes Body in providing funding for these wonderful projects.”

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “There was a huge response to this funding call which really demonstrated the public’s appetite and need for shared spaces within our communities. We have seen from previous PEACE programmes how shared civic spaces can act as beacons of hope within a community, real catalysts for change and enhanced socio-economic environments.

“I am delighted that through PEACEPLUS we will be delivering another six transformed and repurposed facilities for people right across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.

“These new facilities will provide places where people can come together, collaborate and engage with one another in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment. They are crucial for peacebuilding and reconciliation.

“Their impact transcends the bricks and mortar required for their construction, penetrating much further into the local community through the changes in both attitudes and behaviours, resulting in a reduction in segregation and contributing to sustained peace and prosperity.”

Unfortunately, given the scale of interest in the investment area, a number of excellent applications were unsuccessful in attaining funding through the Re-Imaging Communities investment area.

The SEUPB said while it recognised this would be disappointing for those impacted, there was a finite budget and those successful must deliver the maximum impact for the community and ensure the provision of the very best services and facilities. This competitive process meant that all applications were rigorously assessed to ensure full compliance with all criteria for public monies.

PEACEPLUS is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland Executive.

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NW RegTech ambitions top of the agenda during City of London Visit

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The Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Alastair King, was in Derry on 9th December for a series of engagements building on the North West’s strong connection with the City of London.

Alderman King and the visiting delegation were welcomed to the Guildhall by the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, who took the opportunity to discuss shared interests in business, the adoption of technology and innovation. The City of London is a global leader in the Financial and Professional Services sector, and the visit was a timely opportunity to highlight the City Deal projects that will bring about growth, investment and prosperity for the region and ongoing collaborative work locally to establish the world’s first multi-sector RegTech Supercluster here in the North West to the City’s international ambassador.

Welcoming the Lord Mayor on his first visit to Derry, Councillor Barr said: “I was delighted to welcome Alderman King to the city, building on the strong ties we already enjoy with the City of London. We discussed the many strategic advantages of living and working here in the North West, in particular the work that is going into developing our RegTech proposition. “We offer a compelling package for global investors, which is why it’s so important to get the message out there through our partners in the US and the City of London, who can assist in tapping into RegTech global market opportunities.”

Speaking after the meeting, Alderman King said: “It was pleasure to meet the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Lilian Seenoi Barr, policymakers and business leaders across Derry today to discuss how we can further grow our already strong relationships, build on the Northern Ireland’s excellent work in the RegTech sector and on bringing out further regulatory reform.

“Northern Ireland is a leader in financial services and we look forward to continuing the conversation on how to grow the financial and professional services sectors across the UK.”

The delegation went on to attend a special RegTech Forum event led by Council, Invest Northern Ireland and Ulster University where the Lord Mayor and London City representatives met with partners from DCSD Council, Donegal County Council, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ulster University, and Catalyst, and over 100 industry leaders, regulators, academics, and innovators. 

The Forum was chaired by Invest N. Ireland Chair John Healy, and during the event Council’s Investment Manager Rosalind Young, launched a special Innovation Challenge in partnership with the City of London Corporation. The initiative encourages local companies to generate creative solutions for regulatory challenges which could contribute to shaping the future of RegTech.

Speaking afterwards Ms Young said: “We are inviting innovators to showcase their ideas and help address critical ESG and AI issues with support from global experts. It’s an exciting opportunity to foster collaboration between cutting technology companies to address the challenges faced by the financial services sector and contribute to developing new technologies and identifying solutions that could assist businesses by addressing real-world regulatory challenges.”

To find out more about the RegTech Supercluster and how local companies can get involved, go to https://www.regtechsupercluster.co

RegTechForum Members with Lord Mayor of the City of London
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Economy Minister Conor Murphy announces £55m investment in the Future Medicines Institute

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Economy Minister Conor Murphy has launched the Future Medicines Institute (FMI), a £55million industry-led collaborative initiative aimed at advancing the North’s Precision Medicine sector. 

Backed by a consortium of leading companies in Precision Medicine and supported by leading academics from Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University, FMI will drive innovation and productivity in Precision Medicine, building on Northern Ireland’s strong reputation in diagnostics and therapeutics.

Minister Murphy said: “This £55 million investment in the Future Medicines Institute is a landmark step for Precision Medicine in the North which will strengthen our Life and Health Sciences sector and reinforce the region’s role in global healthcare innovation.

Pictured (L-R) are Conor Murphy, Minisiter for the Economy; Wendy Moore, Director of Data Analytics, Diaceutics PLC; Professor Sir Ian Greer, Vice Chancellor, Queen’s University Belfast.
This £55 million investment in the Future Medicines Institute is a landmark step for Precision Medicine in the North which will strengthen our Life and Health Sciences sector and reinforce the region’s role in global healthcare innovation
Conor Murphy
Minister for the Economy

“FMI will foster collaboration across industry, academia, and healthcare to accelerate the development of new drugs and diagnostics, driving growth in our economy. It will provide a vital pathway to speed up patient access to personalised treatments, streamline drug development processes, and bring innovative solutions to market at pace.” 

The industry consortium has been offered £35m from the Northern Ireland Executive towards FMI, with the consortium members contributing an additional £20m. This will fund a wide range of collaborative R&D activities between the companies and universities. It will also create a shared lab within Queen’s University Belfast, where industry and academics can come together to collaborate and access leading edge technologies.

Professor Ian Greer, Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, said: “Queen’s is proud to be hosting this initiative, working in partnership with industry experts and Ulster University to advance novel therapeutics and diagnostics. The FMI will stimulate the creation of a cluster for innovation, talent development, and global partnerships within Northern Ireland’s Life and Health Sciences sector.” 

The industry consortium is made up of Diaceutics PLC, Fusion Antibodies PLC, Randox Laboratories Ltd, Almac Group, Sonrai Analytics, Exploristics and ProAxsis. Ryan Keeling, CEO of Diaceutics PLC said: “The Future Medicines Institute represents a pivotal step forward for Precision Medicine. At Diaceutics, this collaboration provides an opportunity to harness data-driven insights and cutting-edge technology to improve outcomes across the healthcare sector. By joining forces with other local companies through FMI, we’re reinforcing Northern Ireland’s role as a leader in Precision Medicine.”

The FMI will also focus on skills development, leveraging the local universities and colleges to address talent gaps in the sector, foster spinouts, and drive job creation, supporting the broader Northern Ireland economy.

UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) will manage the delivery of the projects within FMI. Dame Jessica Corner, UKRI SRO for Place and Chair of SIPF, said “We are delighted to welcome the Future Medicines Institute to the Strength in Places Fund programme. Funding from the Northen Ireland Executive for the Institute has enabled a very strong project from the initial competition to join the other UKRI Strength in Places Projects and demonstrates how highly the programme is regarded. 

“We look forward to supporting the Future Medicines Institute to benefit very quickly from all the experiences and insights we have gained from the programme and all the other projects to deliver real benefits for the Northern Ireland economy and widely for society.”  

By joining forces with other local companies through FMI, we’re reinforcing Northern Ireland’s role as a leader in Precision Medicine. Ryan Keeling, CEO, Diaceutics PLC
Ryan Keeling
Ryan Keeling, CEO, Diaceutics PLC
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Over 50 North West businesses benefit from Invest NI Lunch & Learn events

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More than 50 businesses from the North West have taken vital steps to grow their business by participating in Invest Northern Ireland’s Lunch & Learn workshop series held recently in Derry. 

The Lunch & Learn workshops offer businesses guidance on a range of topics, from Research & Development (R&D) and innovation, to market research, intellectual property, access to finance and embracing digital transformation.

Pictured (L-R) are: Christian Kotey, CEO, Nupitch Productions; Carolann Doherty, Business Officer, Derry City Strabane District Council; Mark Johnston, Director, Johnston Financial Solutions; Des Gartland, North Western Regional Manager, Invest NI.
Today’s workshop offered invaluable insights into the funding options available for businesses like ours aiming to scale and grow.
Christian Kotey, NuPitch Productions
Director

Highlighting the value of Lunch & Learn workshops to the local economy, Des Gartland, Invest NI’s North Western Regional Manager, said: “Our Lunch & Learn series is a fantastic platform for businesses in the North West to connect, gain valuable insights from industry experts, and explore fresh opportunities for growth.  

“We have offered businesses five workshops over the last three months covering a diverse range of business critical topics, with sessions designed to empower businesses to strengthen their competitive edge, boost efficiency, and unlock new pathways to success. Invest NI is dedicated to supporting the ambitions of businesses in this region and I strongly encourage local companies to take full advantage of the support we offer.” 

Christian Kotey, Director of Derry based multi award winning production company NuPitch Productions, participated in the latest workshop in the series which focused on Access to Finance. Hosted at Invest NI’s North West regional office at Timber Quay, the event provided an overview of Invest NI funding solutions and highlighted how accessing funding can propel businesses to the next level.

Our Lunch & Learn series is a fantastic platform for businesses in the North West to connect, gain valuable insights from industry experts, and explore fresh opportunities for growth. Des Gartland, North Western Regional Manager, Invest NI
Des Gartland
North Western Regional Manager, Invest NI

Christian said: “As a small business, securing funding is vital for turning our ambitions into reality and helping us drive innovation. Thanks to previous funding from TechStart supported by Invest NI’s Proof of Concept grant, we successfully tested and developed our AI driven presentation software for filmmakers, and secured strategic partnerships to further enhance our platform.

“Today’s workshop offered invaluable insights into the funding options available for businesses like ours aiming to scale and grow, and was also an excellent opportunity to connect with other local businesses. I would highly recommend these workshops to any business seeking to strengthen their operations and position themselves for future growth.”

To register for the Lunch & Learn workshop series visit investni.com. Lunch & Learn is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

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City Deal Spotlight Interview

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The Derry-Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Deal has celebrated a major milestone with the signing of a Financial Deal to unlock more than £290 million of investment in health, life science and digital projects and bring transformational change to the region.

Derry City and Strabane District Council Chief Executive John Kelpie explains the key benefits of the City Deal, and what it could mean to people hoping to return to the North West.

Congratulations on the signing of the Financial Deal. How will the City Deal change people’s day-to-day lives in the Derry City and Strabane region?

The Derry City and Strabane City Deal will improve people’s quality of life by creating more job opportunities, a safer, more vibrant city and town centre, and a focus on education and skills. It has the potential to bring up to 6,300 jobs by 2033 and lever additional millions in investment over the next decade. We aim to increase our output growth with a GVA (gross value added) of £230m per annum, which should see a significant rise in wages. People can expect to see real growth in sectors such as health and life sciences, digital industries and SMART technology that will support economic investment and regeneration, and also boost tourism and culture.

As someone who has been working on the City Deal since its inception, what aspect of the deal are you most proud of?

This is a once in a generation deal; its impact will be felt by the people of the city and district for many years to come. Personally, I’m proud of the collaboration between all the key partners who worked tirelessly to get it across the line. It’s been a joined-up approach which has seen us harness collective resources, expertise and passion for the North West. The investment from the UK government and NI Executive, plus the input from all the delivery partners, allows us to leverage additional private sector investment and make a real, positive difference to local people’s lives.

What type of jobs will be created?

We anticipate jobs will be created across all City Deal projects – including Smart Cities and digital enabling infrastructure, the School of Medicine and C-TRIC expansion, Strabane town centre’s regeneration, the Derry riverfront regeneration, Walled City tourism and the DNA (Derry North Atlantic) Museum in Ebrington.

Sustainability, inclusivity and employability are crucial and partners are already working to create a skills pipeline for the employment opportunities created by the City Deal – helping people upskill, reskill and boost digital skills.

The investment will also boost confidence and stimulate additional private sector activity and jobs. We anticipate an overall increase of 12% in the labour market, with large increases in areas such as healthcare and tourism.

What benefits will the City Deal bring for potential investors?

The North West is already an attractive proposition for investors, thanks to our unique cross-border location, our talented, well-educated workforce, and our fantastic quality of life. The City Deal, with its emphasis on innovation, digital infrastructure and regeneration will transform our local economy, and make the city and district an even greater place to do business.  

What are the next steps for the City Deal?

The official signing of the Financial Deal means Council and its delivery partners can now access funding to progress to the next stage of delivering the projects, once the full business cases are approved. The next phase of the City Deal will focus on detailed design and delivery. This work will include a wider awareness and engagement process, as the designs are developed.

What message would you have for anyone looking to return or relocate to the North West?

If you grew up here, or are considering a move here, you’ll already know that there’s nowhere quite like the North West. Our location, the friendliness of our people and our rich cultural heritage are second to none. There’s an energy and excitement here, and economic growth in recent years means we are already seeing diaspora return to live, work and raise their families. The City Deal will supercharge that prosperity, innovation and regeneration. There’s never been a better time to come home. I would encourage anyone considering relocation to visit investderrystrabane.com and sign up to the Derry Strabane Global newsletter for job and investment updates, and help planning their move.

When will City Deal projects be visible on the ground?

The pledge by the UK and NI Governments with the signing of the Financial Deal allows us to progress to the delivery phase of the projects, which will be on a phased approach over the next 10 years. The first visible project will be the DNA Museum being on site by early 2025 and the Museum opening in late 2026. All of the projects are at different stages of delivery, and these will be implemented in phases. With the financial deal in place, we will now be moving at pace to bring the other projects such as the Strabane Strategic Leisure project, a key element of the Strabane Regeneration, to the next stage of delivery. There will also be a focus on creating designs and drawings ahead of engagement with the public and partners.

What legacy do you hope the City Deal will leave for future generations?

With its focus on sustainable growth and lasting change, the positive impacts of the City Deal will be felt for generations to come – from health and wellbeing, to job prospects and economic prosperity. It’s about fulfilling Derry City and Strabane’s potential as a thriving, prosperous and inclusive region for all its inhabitants.

Where can the public find out more and be kept informed about progress?

People can visit www.derrystrabane.com/citydeal and keep an eye on Derry City and Strabane District Council’s social media channel for updates.

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‘There’s something very special happening in the North West right now’

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Derry entrepreneur Jennifer Neff co-founded social prescribing start-up Elemental, now Access Elemental, in 2013. The company supports over 20 million people across the UK, Ireland and Australia, helping them access personalised support and care in their own communities, and tackling health inequalities. Jennifer, who was recently awarded the Society Award at this year’s TechUK President’s Awards, shares her story, and her advice for people considering a relocation or investment in the North West.

“Winning the TechUK President’s Award was of those pinch me moments. The competition was high, so I was under no illusion that it would be an easy win. When they called out my name in the packed conference hall in central London, full of the UK’s leading tech companies and Thought Leaders, I put my head in my hands and sat still in total disbelief as everyone cheered. I asked myself, ‘Has a non-technical co-founder just won overall tech UK President’s Award for Society?’, and the answer was ‘Hell, yes!’

It is one of my career highlights to date and is great for women in tech, tech for good and for Derry! Any chance I get to talk about Derry and how wonderful Derry is and Derry people are, I am in there. 

When I co-founded Elemental with Leeann Monk-Ӧzgül in 2013, we took the story of Derry to every city, town and village we could (even Dubai) and talked about what was so great about Derry, but also how we were tackling health inequalities here, to help others tackle the avoidable issues affecting their localities. As a result, we were invited to participate in the regeneration and improvement of other places and spaces. The Access Elemental platform was created and implemented across communities so people could get more personalised support and care to improve their health and wellbeing in their own communities.

Leeann and myself always had total belief in what we were doing and why we were doing it – I think that is part of being a Derry Girl, and the strong generations of Derry Women down the years. We surrounded ourselves with the best mentors and the best people we could find in the region, and learned from them. 

We were bought out by the UK’s largest UK-based tech company, The Access Group, in August 2021, five years after we first launched Elemental Software. There’s been lots more investment in the team and the Elemental product which has enabled us to expand into Australia and develop new products across the NHS and local Councils throughout the UK. Over 20 million people are now engaging in services such as debt advice, mental health support, physical activity and befriending support via Access Elemental. We’ve developed a unique marketplace product, Access Elemental Marketplace, that community and voluntary groups and services feature on and receive referrals via that is accessible by commissioners, clinical leads and community leaders. It’s been rolled out across cities as we speak.

I would say to everyone living/working, or considering returning to the region, to think about starting their own business. We’re a resilient, creative and caring bunch of people here in Derry and Strabane; all the right qualities for starting and growing successful businesses. There are lots of opportunities and support here from me and others. The FEED programme for example – funded by NatWest and based at The Amp, Ebrington Square – is one of many programmes available to help people spark ideas and take their ideas to the next level.

I was also asked to be the Entrepreneur in Residence, one of three experienced mentors, and the only female mentor, in the Founder Labs, an accelerator programme to support early-stage innovation businesses in Northern Ireland. We’re keen to get as much representation from the North West as possible. The next cohort of participants will be starting the programme in mid-November. 

There’s something very special happening here right now with high growth start-ups. Having received angel funding over the years for Access Elemental, I have now become an investor myself and made my first investment recently in a Derry-based start-up. It makes all the difference to the company, job creation opportunities and building the social and economic potential of the region. I would encourage other firms and individuals to invest in Derry and Strabane-based businesses.

The business landscape is changing here. It’s not just about the accountants, solicitors and insurance companies anymore. We have animation, gaming, renewable energy, creative, tech for good and clothing brands operating on an international level, all based in Derry and Strabane. There are more women, young people and ethnic minority groups taking the step into entrepreneurship than ever. 

Having lived abroad in Edinburgh, Manchester and the United Arab Emirates, I feel so fortunate to be home. I can walk to work, my kids walk to school, cold-water dip and surf within a 20-minute drive. I get to give back and mentor others coming through social entrepreneurship journeys and I can be in London, Manchester and Birmingham for meetings within 90 minutes.

And I’m able to pop into see my mum and dad for a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit; you can’t put a price on that.”

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Seven days of activity across 50 venues revealed for Derry and Strabane’s 2024 Halloween celebration

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The overall programme for the City and District will run over seven days from Friday October 25th to Thursday October 31st 2024 and will feature activity in over 50 venues.


The Derry Halloween celebrations, the largest festival of their kind in Europe, will focus on ‘Awakening the Walled City’ trail within the streets of the city centre from Monday 28th until Wednesday 30th October and will climax with a ‘Carnival of the Dead’ themed Halloween parade and fireworks display on Thursday October 31st.


Strabane’s Halloween celebrations will include trick or treat trails, street theatre, food stalls, dinosaur shows, magicians and much more in Castle Street, Abercorn Square and the Alley Theatre.


The activity begins with the Castlederg Apple Fair on Friday October 25th and Saturday October 26th and includes various community events across the district including the Halloween Hoolie in Castlederg and Newtownstewart’s Scarecrow trail.
A number of key elements to the Derry Halloween programming were highlighted for Members including In Your Space Circus’ Witchy Wonderland on the City Walls, Haunted Projections by Guildhall Production Studio on the Austins and Bishop Street Court House buildings, the LUXE hosted Elemental Garden in Ebrington Square and Rodafonio – a travelling street theatre act created by renowned American designer and musician Cesar Alvarez.


Other highlights will include Stelzen Art Time Travelers in the grounds of the Cathedral Quarter, Studio 2’s Hocus Pocus sisters in the City of Bones, a Back to the Future themed street performance by New Gate Arts, interactive performances by the North West Regional College’s Music and Performing Arts students as well as Magical Science Shows in the Guildhall.


The Haunted Harvest Market will feature LegenDerry Food in Guildhall Square and will give the public the opportunity to sample the best of locally sourced and home-grown food from across the district.

“Officers have been working closely with local providers, creatives and performers as well as international level acts to develop a dynamic and comprehensive programme for Halloween 2024,” explained Head of Culture at Council, Aeidin McCarter.

“Activity is planned across the district from Friday October 25th and climaxing on Thursday October 31st with the city’s Carnival of the Dead Halloween Parade featuring some of the city’s finest performers and culminating in the festival finale fireworks display where all eyes will be on the River Foyle for a deathly display of pyrotechnics.


“We are confident that programming for 2024 will build on our reputation as Europe’s largest Halloween Festival and an internationally renowned visitor experience at this time of year,”


Other programming elements revealed at this week’s meeting are the return of the Hay Bale Sculpture Trail in and around Strabane which will see over 12 groups and community organisations get involved in Halloween activities by creating their own Hay Bale Sculptures using a perfect blend of creative charm and spooky thrills.

Other Derry Halloween highlights include the Monster Fun Fair at Ebrington, Spark Drummers, Uncle Doom and his organ of Doom, Pop Up Choir Performances, Street Walkabouts, Haunted Houses, Live Music, Arts and Crafts, Kids Halloween Disco, Ghost Tours on the City Walls, Wailing Nuns, Wicked Windows, City Centre Dressing, City Dance’s Walter on the Dance Floor and a city centre trick or treat trail.

Members also heard that Officers have been working closely with local creative and community sectors which will also see programming from the Playhouse, Echo Echo, Nerve Centre, An Cultúrlann and Glen Community Development.

Council’s Culture and Business teams are organising a Halloween Business Engagement event on the 2nd October, to allow the business, tourism, retail and hospitality sectors to receive practical support on how to leverage the Halloween activities to enhance their business.


Marketing activities for Derry Halloween will include digital initiatives, broadcast, print, consumer engagement and collaborative campaigns with Visit Derry and Tourism Northern Ireland.

New approaches for the 2024 Derry Halloween campaign include podcast advertising, additional digital channels, a media drop, and the use of Augmented Reality to enhance engagement.


The campaign aims to work closely with Tourism Ireland to position Derry as the Capital of Halloween in their global drive to position Ireland as the Home of Halloween.


The full Halloween programme can be found at www.derryhalloween.com.

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UK and NI Executive Ministers sign financial deal for Derry- Londonderry and Strabane City Region

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Over 6,000 new jobs could be created thanks to City Deal and Inclusive Future Fund

UK Government and NI Executive Ministers gathered at The Guildhall in Derry today to sign the Financial Deal for the Derry-Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Deal that will unlock in excess of £290m of investment in health, life science and digital projects, and help bring about transformational changes and benefits to the region.

The UK Government has provided £50m City Deal funding and £55m via the Inclusive Future Fund, which has been match funded by the Northern Ireland Executive with contributions by Derry City and Strabane District Council and its project partners of £83m.

The funding marks the single largest investment by the UK Government and NI Executive in this region, and today’s signing of the Financial Deal represents a significant step forward in the City Deal journey. This will ultimately enable progress and the successful delivery of key infrastructure, regeneration and tourism projects.

The Derry~Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Deal and Inclusive Future Fund will see more than £250m invested in the city and district with a focus on innovation, digital and health projects together with regeneration, tourism and renewal initiatives, creating up to 6,300 new jobs by 2033 and allowing the region to attract investment, enable regeneration and boost tourism.

The Derry~ Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Deal partners – Derry City and Strabane District Council, Ulster University, the North West Regional College, the Western Health and Social Care Trust and Clinical Translational Research Centre (C-TRIC Ltd) – have been working intensively with the NI Executive, UK Government and industry partners and are hugely proud of the success of this collaboration in reaching this landmark stage of the process following the signing of the Heads of Terms in 2021.

Today’s official signing of the Financial Deal sets in motion the next stages of the process for Council and its delivery partners to work to deliver the projects, once the full business cases are approved.  The focus for the next phase of the City Deal is the detailed design and delivery. The signing of the financial deal will allow access to funding to undertake this work which will include a wider awareness and engagement process as the detailed designs are developed.

Among the attendees at today’s event were the First Minister, Michelle O’Neill; deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, MLA; the Secretary of State for NI, Hilary Benn MP and the Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald. There were messages of support from the Minister of Health, the Minister for Infrastructure, the Minister for Economy and the Communities Minister, acknowledging the significance of the event.

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, who hosted the event, acknowledged the importance of the investment.

She said: “This is a momentous day for the Derry and Strabane region. Thanks to cross-party political support, private sector backing and unprecedented levels of collaboration from all the partners, we’ve succeeded in securing this significant, long-term commitment to transforming the NI economy in the sectors where we have the potential to become world leaders.

“This City Deal provides us with an opportunity to be vibrant and exciting, and to provide us with so much potential for growth and prosperity. Today, with the signing of the Financial Deal Agreement, we have reached a major milestone, unlocking £290m of capital investment from the UK Government, the Northern Ireland Executive and our local delivery partners.”

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn said: “I am delighted that the Derry-Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Dealis proceeding as planned, and proud to sign the deal on behalf of the UK Government.

“It’s going to provide support to so many important initiatives which will positively impact the lives of local people, including the regeneration of the waterfront in Derry, and of Strabane town centre.

“The digital and innovation projects which the UK Government is investing in through this deal will deliver a fantastic economic boost and opportunities for residents of the entire North West region. Exciting projects such as the £39 million new combined Cognitive Analytics and Digital Robotics Centre (CADRC), will deliver cutting-edge research and innovation. A new School of Medicine/ Personalised Medicine Centre will develop research capabilities at Ulster University’s Magee Campus, complemented by educational facilities at Altnagelvin Hospital campus.

“I congratulate everyone involved for their hard work and dedication over many years to reach this important milestone. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will have on local people and businesses.”

John Kelpie, Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council, on behalf of the delivery partners said: “This once in a generation City Deal would not have been possible without the successful collaboration between all of the partners involved who have worked tirelessly to get it over the line. This joined up approach has seen us using our resources, expertise and determination to secure this funding for our area so that we can make a real and positive difference to the lives of people who live and work here. The significant investment from the UK government and NI Executive with additional input from all the delivery partners allows us to leverage additional private sector investment to deliver a programme with an overall value well currently standing at £290m.”

The Mayor added that the City Deal will strengthen the region’s offer in growth sectors such as life and health sciences, digital and creative industries and will also support next generation digital capabilities, boost tourism by creating world-class visitor experiences and enable regeneration, underpinned by infrastructure developments and investment in skills to connect people to jobs and services.

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