Glenshane Community Development Limited celebrates 35 years of community impact and announces future plans

Glenshane Community Development Limited is proud to celebrate its 35th anniversary this month, marking over three decades of dedicated service and significant contributions to the local community. This milestone year has been one of reflection, achievement, and forward planning, as highlighted at the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Glenshane House, Dungiven.

Chairman Aidan Farren began the AGM by acknowledging the profound loss of both the Vice Chairman Denny Hegarty and former Co-Ordinator Mary Halsey, who both passed away during the Summer. Their dedication and commitment have left an indelible mark on the organisation. Mary had joined the Glenshane team in 2008, whilst Denny had been one of the founding members of the organisation, contributing to the success of Glenshane Community Development Limited.

ABOVE: Glenshane Community Development with Supporters in 1989. Back Row – Stephen Bell, Limavady Borough Council; Brian McCloskey, Solicitor for GCD; Sean Colgan, GCD; Anthony McGarvey, Ulster Bank; Cllr. Michael Coyle, Limavady Borough Council; Adrian McCloskey, GCD; David Simpson, Northern Bank; Aidan Farren, GCD; Colum McNicholl, GCD; (Unknown); Cecil Ross, GCD. Front Row – Marie Heavern, GCD; Therese McMackin, GCD; John McNicholl, GCD; (Unknown); Mary McNicholl, GCD.

Over the past 35 years, GCD Ltd. has achieved many major accomplishments. Aidan listed the following key achievements:-

• Asset Growth: Established £3.7 million worth of assets in one of the most underinvested regions of the UK and Ireland.

• Job Creation: Created 489 full-time equivalent positions, including employees and sub-contractors.

• Economic Contribution: Contributed £16.01 million in salaries to the local economy.

• Financial Independence: Ensured that 93% of income is unrestricted, reducing reliance on external bodies.

• Community Investment: Directly invested more than £150,000 annually into the local economy through supplies and wages.

• Support for Local Charities: Maintained nearly half a million pounds for reinvestment in local regeneration and capital improvement.

• Advice Services: Facilitated £1.5 million annually in benefits claims for vulnerable community members.

ABOVE: Official opening of Glenshane Enterprise Centre in 1991. Pictured is Pat O’Hagan, GCD; Gerry Murphy, Ulster Bank; Gerry Thornbury, GCD; Cecil Ross, GCD; Cllr. Michael Coyle, Limavady Borough Council; Denny Hegarty, GCD; David Simpson, Northern Bank; John McNicholl, GCD; (Unknown); Anne Thornbury, GCD; Andy Murphy, Contractor; Colum McNicholl, GCD; John Stevenson, Limavady Borough Council; Michael Hegarty, Architect; Adrian McCloskey, GCD.

Aidan recognised that one of the most notable achievements has been the redevelopment of Dungiven Castle. Transformed from a ruin into a majestic property, the castle now houses Gaelcholaiste Dhoire, the first Irish-medium secondary school outside of Belfast, with 325 pupils and 33 staff. The growth of the school has also drawn an additional £10m into Dungiven.

Looking ahead, he advised that Glenshane Community Development Limited has ring-fenced £200,000 for key projects, including the development of a Digital Hub. However, the pause in the commitment of Growth Deal monies to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough by the British Government poses challenges, with the organisation awaiting the Spending Review on October 30th for further clarity on whether or not this pause will be lifeted.

Chief Executive Mairead McCormack highlighted the organisation’s operational focus on providing workspace units, educational opportunities, and various community projects. Key highlights include:

                      Property Management:

• Managed 48,000 sq ft of workspace and 20,000 sq ft of commercial space.

• Achieved a 90% occupancy rate, supporting local businesses and employment.

• Maintained 100% occupancy in a 7,000 sq ft heritage building.

  Educational Initiatives:

• Offered a variety of educational courses to enhance community skills and knowledge.

  Community Services:

• Provided well-received advice services and health and wellbeing projects.

• Daily and weekly community engagement through various classes and services, including Pilates, yoga, meditation, educational and recreational courses.

• Hosted community groups and services such as AA, Slimming World, and local dance classes.

  Financial Performance:

• Emphasised a strong financial position, allowing confident planning for future projects.

  Future Plans:

• Continued delivery of essential services.

• Planned renovations for the enterprise centre and business park, and an extension of the café.

  Community Engagement:

• Strong community ownership and support, with significant daily usage of services.

• Operated the Warm Places scheme and provided drop-in computer facilities and room hire.

She reported that her strategic focus was on:

• Sustainability and prudent financial management.

• Continued support for local enterprises and community services.

• Long-term collaboration and mutual support through new partnerships.

And in addition to this and the continuation of ongoing services, Mairead advised that the organisation has formed a partnership with Inishowen Development Partnership, McGarvey Baltic Connections, Blu Zebra Ltd and MTU Piiriveere Liider in Estonia. This collaboration aims to enhance cross-border cooperation in tourism, business, social economies and civic leadership, building on previous workings with each of these organisations.

ABOVE: The GCD team at the official opening of Dungiven Castle, February 2002. Mairead McCormack, Manager; Denny Hegarty, Director; John Henry, Director; Mary McNicholl, Director; Aidan Farren, Director; John McNicholl, Director; Colum McNicholl, Director; Angus Simpson, Director; Marie Heavern, Director; Mary Brolly, Administrator.

Other reports delivered on the night included the Secretary’s, Treasurer’s, and Auditors’. Each advised that the organisation is in a strong financial position, with clear and transparent records. The auditor confirmed that all accounting practices were in full compliance with the relevant standards and regulations, ensuring accuracy and transparency in the financial records.

Chairman Aidan Farren expressed his gratitude to all supporters, volunteers and partners. He attributed their unwavering commitment and hard work as continuing to drive the organisation’s mission of economic development and community support.