Derry riverfront overhaul takes leap forward as Queen’s Quay project approved
The Queen's Quay replacement project promises a modernised, accessible public space on the banks of the Foyle.
Liz Kimmins has green-lit the replacement of Queen’s Quay on the banks of the River Foyle saying the project will go ahead in tandem with the Department of Infrastructure’s Central Riverfront project.
The Infrastructure Minister approved the establishment of the Queen's Quay replacement project in Derry on Monday.
This will allow the scheme move forward through design, environmental assessment, planning and business case development stages.
The project will be developed alongside the Department's Central Riverfront Project, a City Deal initiative that is being delivered in partnership with Derry City & Strabane District Council.
This will, she said, help to ‘ensure a coordinated approach to the future development of the city's riverfront’.
Minister Kimmins said: "Queen's Quay is an important strategic asset at the heart of Derry's waterfront. Progressing this project will allow the Department to develop a long-term solution for the quay while ensuring it aligns with the wider vision for the riverfront.
"Developing the project alongside the Central Riverfront Project will help us take a coordinated approach to regeneration, active travel, flood resilience, and connectivity, while continuing to work closely with our partners and stakeholders.
"Setting up a replacement project will allow the necessary design and assessment work to be undertaken before any future decisions are taken on delivery."
SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said the plan must be backed with funding.
“Replacing the existing quay infrastructure is essential to unlocking the wider redevelopment of Derry’s riverfront. The Central Riverfront Project was secured through City Deal funding after years of work from the SDLP at Westminster.
"It represents a major opportunity to reshape this part of our city, creating more attractive public spaces, improving walking and cycling routes and making better use of our waterfront for the public to enjoy,” he said.
Mr. Eastwood said the quay is one of Derry’s most outstanding resources.
"These quay replacement plans must now be backed by the funding needed to turn this ambition into reality,” he said.
The project is intended to support the long-term regeneration of the riverfront while providing opportunities to improve connectivity, enhance active travel provision and contribute to wider flood resilience objectives.
Feasibility estimates indicate a potential project value of between £36 million and £45 million, subject to further design development and approvals.