€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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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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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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Successful completion of North West Greenway Network celebrated

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A NEW EU-funded cross-border greenway connecting people and communities across the North West was officially opened on 12th September..

The €34m North West Greenway Network was supported by the European Union’s INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC) in partnership with the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), Donegal County Council (DCC) and Sustrans NI.

Further funding was also provided by both Councils, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Department for Infrastructure, and the Department for Communities in Northern Ireland.

The overall project has successfully delivered a network of 46.5km of greenway infrastructure, walking and cycling routes, linking communities spanning the North West border area.

The two new routes link Strathfoyle to Quigleys Point via Muff, and Culmore and Castlefinn to Strabane via Lifford. The network has already attracted thousands of local users, providing an environmentally friendly travel option for commuters as well as facilitating active travel, physical activity and encouraging sustainable transport and decarbonisation. The new routes also provide improved safety for walkers, runners and cyclists.

Speaking at today’s celebration event, which was attended by project partners and representatives from both sides of the border, Minister for Infrastructure, John O’Dowd said: “This project is a shining example of partnership and cross border work and I am delighted that my Department was able to provide funding towards it. The Greenway is already producing tangible benefits in the North West by linking communities and encouraging more people to consider the option of active travel as an alternative to the private car for short journeys. This is a modal shift I want to see continue. Active travel has the potential to increase physical activity and improve mental wellbeing. It can also help to tackle air pollution and, along with public transport, will help to decarbonise our transport system.”

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, James Lawless, said: “The opening of the North West Greenway Network represents an exciting development for the North West Region. This cross-border Greenway project has received significant financial support through the INTERREG VA programme with the Department of Transport providing approximately €3 million in 2024 to support this project. This project is an exemplar initiative of cross-border collaboration, with Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council working together to realise 46.5km of segregated cycle lanes.

This project has resulted in two separate Greenway routes connecting Derry to County Donegal. These routes will encourage greater levels of cycling and walking, rather than private car use, among leisure users, tourists, and commuters. In addition, this project will help to ensure coherent cycling infrastructure for individuals travelling between the two jurisdictions. This investment by the Department of Transport to date signals the Government’s commitment to providing high-quality cycle infrastructure that will generate many benefits for cyclists and communities across Ireland”.

Gina McIntyre, SEUPB Chief Executive, said: “The official opening of the North West Greenway Network marks a transformative step towards a more connected, sustainable future for the region. This project not only strengthens cross-border cooperation but also promotes cleaner and greener travel, healthier lifestyles and enhances environmental stewardship.

“This project exemplifies the commitment of SEUPB and our partners to building a shared, sustainable future for all communities in Northern Ireland and the border counties.

“I would like to congratulate all those involved in the management, design and build, who have produced this amazing new North West Greenway, an ambitious concept carried through in outstanding delivery.”

Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council, Alderman Darren Guy, said: “I am delighted to join with project partners and funders today to mark the successful completion of the North West Greenway.

“We are already seeing the benefits of the new routes which have opened up new areas to both pedestrians and cyclists and brought our cross-border communities closer together. Here in the North West we are blessed with beautiful green spaces and the network makes these areas more accessible, connecting both urban and rural areas so they can be reached within minutes.

“This is now a practical travel route for commuters, as well as a popular pathway for fitness and leisure. I want to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of our team in delivering this major strategic project, and also the support of all our partners in recognising and supporting the vision we had for the North West area.”

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Official opening of New Gate Arts & Culture Centre’s cultural shared space

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A vibrant new arts and culture centre for communities across Derry~Londonderry to celebrate and share their unique cultural heritage officially opened in November.

The New Gate Arts & Culture Centre, located in The Fountain area of Derry~ Londonderry; close to the historic walls and the city centre marks a £2.3 million investment by The Executive Office to create an inclusive shared space for communities to host events and initiatives in a state-of-the-art community facility.

This project is part of The Executive Office’s Urban Villages Initiative aimed at providing funding for projects in five urban areas across Northern Ireland. Managed and overseen by Derry City and Strabane District Council the project is aimed at improving good relation outcomes and develop thriving places where there has been a history of deprivation and community tension. The investment will assist in fostering positive community identities, building community capacity and improving the local physical environment.

The new centre includes a performance and multi-use space, art and tuition rooms, a dance studio, offices and café.

Joan O’Hara, Director, The Executive Office’s Urban Villages programme said the newly completed New Gate Arts and Culture Centre with the adjacent site brings a significant investment to The Fountain area of Derry/ Londonderry. It has become a state-of-the-art, performance space that will create opportunity to celebrate culture and identity with the local community and much wider. Urban Villages also have a keen interest in the organisational development of North-West Cultural Partnership to ensure the capacity and sustainability of such a landmark location.

“This is a fantastic regeneration project for the Fountain area of the city and across the region to provide a shared cultural space right in the heart of the local community. The centre will invigorate the area and encourage the community to come together to celebrate their culture and backgrounds in a space that will use the arts to create new experiences and friendships. We look forward to enjoying this collaborative voice and its potential in the years to come.”

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Patricia Logue said: “The New Gate Arts and Culture Centre plays a hugely positive role in the local community through the provision of services and activities as well as improving the physical environment of the Fountain area. I am delighted that this investment has been completed successfully and that the residents of the Fountain and the wider area can now enjoy this new state of the art performance and cultural facility on their doorstep.”

Kyle Thompson from the North West Cultural Partnership who will be managing the day to day running of the centre thanked everyone involved in the project.

“We are hugely excited to see the Centre completed and the doors open to the public. This investment is a huge boost to the local community and allows us to continue with the positive work we are doing to promote the work that is going on in our community and reaching out to others to share and enjoy our unique cultures and traditions. This new state of the art building allows us to expand our ability to facilitate more activities and events and invite communities from across the city and region to participate and visit this unique shared space.”

The project is the culmination of the development of the Urban Villages Strategic Framework for Derry-Londonderry in 2016 and the preparation of the Fountain Area Strategic Overview in 2018.

As NWCP CEO, Brian Dougherty explained: “‘The centre represents the core focal point in establishing our strategic vision of ‘building a future of confident, creative, and connected people’. By providing further physical infrastructure for our six member groups and broad constituent base, it will allow us to fulfil not only an exciting and creative annual cultural programme but will provide the administrative base for our programme staff to continue developing our civic leadership initiatives.”

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Move home for the best of both worlds

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Working in your dream role doesn’t have to involve a long commute, huge rents and the stresses of big city living.

A return to the North West can give you all-important career progression, AND a competitive salary, without sacrificing your quality of life.

In Derry and Strabane, you’ll find corporate positions with big-name multinationals, skilled jobs with thriving local firms, or even the support to set up your own venture.

And with shorter journeys to work than most major UK cities, you can clock off for the day and be back home – or on the beach or golf course – in no time at all.

But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what some of our brilliant employers say:

“We are matching Derry’s strengths with our needs. It has a fantastic educational base; it has a fantastic demographic base. There is a tonne of flexibility here.” – Modsquad

“By establishing our European operations here, we are in a stronger position to target opportunities within UK and Europe and expand sales and ensure future growth of our business.” – OneSource Virtual

“Our experience in Northern Ireland far exceeded our expectations. We came here originally for the cost savings. We find ourselves staying for the people and the talent that’s available.” Allstate NI

If you’re interested in moving back to the North West, check out the companies recruiting and explore what the region has to offer at https://investderrystrabane.com/worklife. Your journey home starts here! 

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New street art emerges in Derry city centre

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The murals were created by Peaball, a street art collective, with the hopes of bringing life to run-down parts of the city. The murals are all done in different styles, showing different images and Peaball member Donal O’Doherty says there’s ‘something there for everyone’.

The murals are part of Peaball’s street art initiative ‘Get Up’ which is intending to brighten up the riverfront and areas around it such as the Strand Road and Ebrington. Murals were recently completed on the new Ebrington Hotel, City Cabs in William Street and Quayside Shopping Centre on the Strand Road.

“We really wanted to get this right,” said Donal. “So, we brought Fintan Magee to do Ebrington Hotel. Fintan’s father was born in Derry, he left during the troubles and Fintan is a world famous, high-end street artist. We had a mural on City Cabs in William Street before and it was a bit tired looking to be honest. James from City Cabs said he wanted to freshen up the whole area to make it light and bright and welcoming for people. William Street is quite a serious street so we wanted something fun and engaging. We worked with Bonsai on that, a London-based artist who has been visiting the city and painting graffiti for over ten years. We talked about this idea over five years ago to take symbols that identify us around the world, such as the shamrock, and put a real modern street art twist on it. I have to say, I think it’s amazing. And the feedback we’ve had is phenomenal.”

“Pyke ‘n’ Pommes, Patricia’s, Primrose, are all trying to animate our riverfront and they’ve got a great scene there,” Donal said. “But, once you pass the Council offices, you navigate three car parks and the back of Quayside before you get into town. We’re hoping to take people off the quay earlier, up to the great food scene around Guapo. We found that a lot of tourists and Derry people alike were drawn over when they seen the artist and were asking questions and I was guiding them to the Mandarin Palace, a staple of Derry restaurants and all the other places around there. I think those businesses were very happy with what we were doing.”

The ‘Get Up’ festival is privately funded, with most of the money sourced by ‘knocking on doors’.

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North-West Ireland City Region selected for the Intelligent Cities Challenge

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‘Innovative solutions that will place the city region at the forefront of the green and digital twin transition through Local Green Deals’

The North-West Ireland City Region has been selected for the Intelligent Cities Challenge (ICC) 2023-25 edition, a support programme spearheaded by the European Commission.

A spokesperson for ICC said the city region, which consists of Derry / Strabane and Donegal, will now start its “two-year journey to create an impactful strategy and develop innovative solutions that will place the city region at the forefront of the green and digital twin transition through Local Green Deals”.

“The ICC programme will help cities to harness the power of cutting-edge technologies, while improving their economic competitiveness, social resilience, and the European citizens’ quality of life.

“They will receive high quality, tailored guidance, expert support, access to advisory and city peer networks, and capacity building tools, to drive their city closer towards the twin transition.”

Derry City and Strabane District councillor Conor Heaney (Sinn Fein) and vice chair of ERNACT (European Regions Network for the Application of Communications Technology) said: “I welcome this opportunity for the City Region to continue on the Intelligent Cities Challenge journey, to access expert guidance for green-digital transition and to learn from other EU cities.

“These supports will help us to face increasing constraints on resources and progress our desire to provide attractive, enjoyable places to live, work and visit, in an inclusive, sustainable way.”

Commenting on the announcement, Donegal County Council Cllr Rena Donaghey (Fianna Fáil), chair of ERNACT, said: “We look forward to being part of the ICC and boosting our progress towards a sustainable and low carbon region guided by our Local Green Deal, the North West Regional Energy Strategy of Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council.”

The previous ICC edition (2020-2022) saw €1.9 billion earmarked for ICC cities’ actions and €247 million in public funding from EU, national and regional sources was leveraged which helped facilitate 336 actions planned by the 136 Core cities.

This new edition will build on the success of the previous ICC programme (2020-22) and Digital Cities Challenge (2018-20) and provide an extensive high-profile network, solid methodology framework and strong support mechanisms.  

Dana Eleftheriadou, Head Cities and Proximity Team, DG GROW at the European Commission, said: “Cities are the beating heart of Europe’s economy.

“The new phase of the Intelligent Cities Challenge offers cities with the prime opportunity to put themselves on the map as a European Intelligent City and to turn their sustainability and technological ambitions into action, especially by launching their own Local Green Deals across city departments and with the local businesses.

“These will put your cities firmly on the path towards making the European Green Deal and the Green Deal Industrial Plan a reality, while scaling-up Europe’s net-zero industry.”  

For the latest developments and more information, visit intelligentcitieschallenge.eu. 

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A Giant Experience Awakens in the Sperrins as Sculpture Trail is launched

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July witnessed the official launch of the Sperrins Sculpture Trail and unveiling of the three giant art installations that have been created to showcase the geology, archaeology and heritage of the Sperrins.

This innovative tourism project showcases a trio of interrelated and unique art pieces created by world acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo, located at three sites in the Sperrins at Mullaghcarn, along the Glenelly Valley near Cranagh, and at Davagh Forest.

These innovative and inspiring artistic creations celebrate the ancient and intriguing natural beauty of the region and embraces the giant spirit of the local landscape.

The Sperrins Sculpture Trail is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council in partnership with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and Mid Ulster District Council and is part of a wider plan to promote this popular area of natural, unspoilt beauty and drive rural tourism and investment in the local natural and built heritage.

The Sperrins Sculpture Trail is delivered through the Rural Tourism Scheme as part of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 with funding support of over £1.32m from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) with match funding totalling £568k from the partner Councils.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Patricia Logue, speaking at the site of the trail at the Glenelly Valley site near Cranagh said she was hugely supportive of the project and very impressed with the giant sculptures.

She said: “I am delighted that this hugely important tourism project for the Sperrins is now complete and ready to be actively marketed and promoted as a major tourism attraction for this really beautiful scenic area. I am confident that it will bring much needed investment to the region and encourage visitors from across the globe to visit our amazing rural heartlands, whilst preserving the natural assets for our rural communities and linking in with the work being done at a regional level to embrace the giant spirit of our local landscape and natural environment.”

The Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Dominic Molloy speaking about the Davagh site said: ““It is my pleasure to formally welcome Ceoldán the Giant to the Sperrins and to OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, one of only two International Dark Sky parks on the island of Ireland. The inclusion of such a striking sculpture in the ancient heart of Mid Ulster can only add to the exciting experiences already in place that are open to our local and international visitors. In forging this link with our neighbouring Council areas, we are working collaboratively to maximise the benefits for our local rural economies west of the Bann.”

Speaking about the project, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O Reilly, said:

“We are thrilled to be a part of the Sperrins Sculpture Trail featuring a trio of giant sculptures. These interrelated and unique art pieces created by world-acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo not only showcase his artistic brilliance but also highlights the natural, unspoiled beauty of the region. It will serve as a catalyst to drive rural sustainable tourism, attract investment, and preserve our local natural and built heritage. We anticipate the Trail will captivate visitors locally, regionally, and internationally, leaving them with unforgettable giant experiences of the Sperrins”.

Welcoming news of the completion of the project, DAERA Director of Rural Affairs Teresa O’Neill said: “ I am delighted that DAERA,  through the Rural Tourism Scheme strand of the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, has been able to support this project. 

Tourism is one of the key economic drivers for Northern Ireland and I congratulate the three Councils involved for developing and delivering unique and iconic artistic creations at the three sites in the Sperrins. This innovative project will attract additional visitors to this rural part of Northern Ireland and will therefore provide a timely boost to the local economy”. 

A spokesperson from McGurk Architects added: “As a local firm based in the Mid Ulster area, McGurk Architects are proud to have led and managed this unique project from design competition stage through to final completion on site.

In July 2022, Colm McGurk (Director and founder of McGurk Architects) sadly passed away, suddenly and after a short illness. Colm’s research into the history, geology and folklore of the Sperrins was instrumental to the award of this contract to McGurk Architects and Colm told everyone he met about the Giants of Sperrin.  

We believe that the Giants enhance the identity of our region and trust that they will be cherished and enjoyed by many future generations.

Artist Thomas Dambo said: “Working in Northern Ireland has been a great challenge. Most of my sculptures around the world are made from trash like discarded pallet wood, because my main mission is to show the world how to transform trash into treasure. But for The Sperrins I was asked to build my sculptures to last for 60 years and this has been a push to learn how to work with longevity in a responsible way.

“To make ‘The Three Giants and the Campfires in the Sky’ a reality I had to learn about responsible forestry, European Oak and natural preservatives. I also salvaged tons of residual wood from Danish furniture makers to make sure my work would still be in line with my core values. Because we must leave this planet a better place!

“I have worked through Chinese bureaucracy, Caribbean heatwaves and climbed steep slopes to build on the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee – but what met my crew in the misty hills of the Sperrins made me realise that most of the world doesn’t have weather – Northern Ireland though – you’ve got weather! Thank you.”

The three locations are at Cranagh (Derry City and Strabane District Council area); at Mullaghcarn (Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area) and at Davagh Forest (Mid Ulster District Council area).

Copenhagen based artist Thomas Dambo and his team have worked alongside the design and construction consultancy team McGurk Architects to take forward the development of this hugely exciting and innovative project that will not only showcase the epic stories associated with the Sperrins, the inspirational nature of the landscape but also the giant spirit and welcome of its people.

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Spend less, live better in the UK’s most affordable city

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A move back to Derry and Strabane isn’t just great for work-life balance; it could boost your bank balance too.

Our cost of living is much lower than in other major UK cities, with the monthly cost of a one-bed apartment, and full-time childcare, both more than three times cheaper than in London.

A monthly bus pass in Derry-Strabane is just a third of what you’d pay in London, and socialising is also more wallet-friendly: a three-course meal in Dublin costs more than twice what it would in one of our LegenDerry local restaurants!

With an average commute time of 30 minutes – compared to 70 minutes in London, and 60 minutes in Belfast – you and your family will have more time to savour the quality of life here: our beautiful beaches, great outdoor spaces, rich culture and friendly people.

It’s no wonder ‘cool, credible, cheap’ Derry was named one of the best places to live in the UK by the Sunday Times – and ranked first for remote working in Northern Ireland, and fourth in the UK.

Major employers think Derry and Strabane is pretty great too. You’ll find graduate roles, high-level jobs and remote, hybrid and flexible working opportunities in sectors including FinTech, software development, life and health sciences and advanced manufacturing and engineering.

There are now three daily flights from City of Derry airport to London Heathrow, and the newly opened A6 from Derry to Dungiven has also made the drive to Belfast quicker than ever.

The £250m City Deal will also give the region another valuable boost of investment, innovation, infrastructure and growth.

There’s never been a better time to come home – but don’t just take our word for it! Check out these money-saving stats:

The average monthly cost of a one-bed city centre apartment is £590 in Derry-Strabane, compared with £1860 in London and £1660 in Dublin

Full-day, monthly childcare in Derry Strabane costs £500 compared with £1,590 in London

A monthly buss pass in Derry-Strabane is more than three times cheaper in Derry-Strabane than in London

Hourly parking will cost three times more in Belfast than in Derry – and 15 times more in London

The average monthly salary in Derry-Strabane after tax is £1,950 – just £98 less than in Belfast

Basic monthly heating costs in Derry-Strabane are cheaper than Belfast, Liverpool, Edinburgh, London and Dublin

(Source: Numbeo Cost of Living Sept 2022)

For more information on living and working in the North West, visit investderrystrabane.com

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