Derry initiative launched to give new purpose to old paint

An innovative new scheme to help reduce the amount of paint being wasted has been welcomed by the Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Alderman Niree McMorris.

Launched by Repair & Share Foyle, Legenderry Colours is an exciting new remanufacturing project made possible through funding from The National Lottery Community Fund’s People and Communities programme.

The support includes two years of funding for a dedicated Paint & Innovation Technician, enabling the project to both divert waste paint from landfill and create a new sustainable income stream for the organisation.

The project is a major step forward in tackling one of the UK’s hidden waste challenges. An estimated 50 million litres of paint goes to waste across the UK each year - much of it still perfectly usable.

Welcoming the launch, Ald McMorris said that by remanufacturing leftover and unwanted paint, the project gives this valuable resource a second life. “This innovative project shows what can be achieved when creativity, community and sustainability come together. By giving unwanted paint a new purpose, Legenderry Colours not only tackles a hidden waste issue but also delivers real environmental and economic benefits for local people.

"I’m delighted to see Derry and Strabane leading the way with such forward-thinking solutions.”

During the launch event, Paint & Innovation Technician Gareth Loughrey showcased the group’s specialist remanufacturing equipment, demonstrating how discarded paint is transformed into high-quality, affordable product. The project has been supported by expertise and training from the Rediscovery Centre and ongoing guidance from Community RePaint, with SSE Renewables providing capital investment for the equipment.

Gareth Loughrey said: “Paint waste is a huge but often overlooked problem. This project allows us to turn something that would otherwise be thrown away into a high-quality product people can use in their homes and community spaces. It’s better for the environment, better for local budgets, and helps support our wider circular economy goals.”

VOX POP: Hollybush Primary School pupils on their favourite thing about the school

The students of Hollybush Primary School tell The Derry News what their favourite thing is about the school and what they would say to encourage a friend to come to the school

VOX POP: Hollybush Primary School pupils on their favourite thing about the school

The students of Hollybush Primary School tell The Derry News what their favourite thing is about the school and what they would say to encourage a friend to come to the school

With remanufactured paint available from as little as £2 per litre, local households, community groups and organisations can now access affordable, sustainable paint directly from the Repair & Share Foyle workshop.

In the coming months, the team will introduce bespoke batches inspired by local culture and heritage, proudly marketed as Derry-themed ‘Legenderry Colours’.