Comprehensive update given to councillors on transformative City Deal projects

A comprehensive update report on the transformative City Deal and Inclusive Future Fund (IFF) programme was presented at a Special Meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council this week.

Following the landmark signing of the ‘Financial Deal’ in September 2024, elected members were briefed on the significant progress that has been made across a suite of regionally significant projects, with the total investment package now reaching approximately £307.5 million.

The report detailed critical progress across all the innovation, digital, health and regeneration sectors, confirming that several major projects are moving from the planning phase into active delivery mode.

In terms of the Strabane Town Centre Regeneration (£115m) – elected members were informed that Integrated Consultant Teams (ICTs) have been appointed for the new Leisure Centre and the Primary Care Health Hub for the Strabane regeneration project, while procurement for the new North-West Regional College (NWRC) campus is well advanced, with a consultant appointment expected by spring 2026.

In terms of site preparation, legal agreements for the acquisition of the former DfI building on Derry Road are nearing completion, and a demolition tender is being prepared to clear the site for construction. A dedicated consultant team is being appointed to coordinate essential water, sewerage, and electricity enabling works across the regeneration footprint.

Members were also informed that progress continues to be made on the design of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the Mourne River, aimed at improving access between Strabane town centre and relevant transport links.

Details of progress on other key projects and milestones were also provided at the meeting, including an update in relation to The Cognitive Analytics and Digital Robotics Innovation Centre (CADRIC) project on the Ulster University campus and how it has advanced with the signing of its Contract of Funding and the appointment of an ICT.

In terms of the DNA Museum, construction is officially underway, with an anticipated opening in 2027 while the Smart Energy Pilot for Strabane, aimed at supporting modern digital infrastructure and sustainability, is currently in development stage.

In Derry, details of how the Central Riverfront Project is set to reimagine the riverfront as a vibrant civic space with new civic squares and streetscape enhancements and how it will serve as a physical link to the new University Square and integrate Ulster University’s expansion into the city’s riverfront fabric, was provided at the meeting. It was also acknowledged that there is an urgent need for structural replacement works at Queen’s Quay, to be integrated with the wider riverfront development.

In terms of the Walled City, plans are being developed for public realm and lighting proposals that will enhance the city’s historic core and improve the visitor experience, while plans are advancing for the remodelling of the Tower Museum.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairí McHugh, who chaired the meeting praised the successful collaboration between all partners.

He said: "The scale of this programme is a testament to the unified vision of our partners. As well as investing in infrastructure, we are building a foundation for long-term social and economic prosperity, creating pathways to high-quality employment for the entire City Region."

Members, noting the progress made to date, approved recommendations to work to secure further funding from Government Departments to advance public realm works at the Strabane Canal Basin and carry out critical structural works at Queen’s Quay.

The report is available in full at – Report 3 -City Deal Interdependent and Strategic Projects Updates.pdf

The meeting was broadcast live and can be viewed back on the Council’s Youtube channel.