'Stunning' Bloody Sunday mural sees 'transformational' work begin at Central Drive

Planned works for Central Drive in the Creggan area of Derry have been described as "transformational"

Speaking as work began on the scheme, Sinn Fein Cllr Kevin Campbell said the project would see the physical improvement of Central Drive with the erection of a “stunning” Bloody Sunday photographic collage (pictured) on the Telstar Bar wall, the painting of a number of sporting images drawing on Creggan's rich sporting heritage and the removal of graffiti from the area.

Cllr Campbell, a member of the Triax Neighbourhood Management Team, added: “It is the product of a long process of development which has seen the TNMT work with local businesses, schools, youth groups and residents and has been supported by the Bloody Sunday Trust, Department for Social Development, NIHE and the Triax partnership.

Cllr Campbell said Central Drive had for “too long” been “blighted” by graffiti.

He added: “ This project, which enjoys massive community support, will improve the appearance of Central Drive and the TNMT wants to thank all of those who have helped make this possible.

“This project marks an important milestone in the TNMT's work to make the Triax area a cleaner, safer and more attractive place to live. It is work that has at times seen our equipment destroyed and our employees threatened, but it is work that we remain committed to.

“The residents of Triax deserve no less.

Triax Tourism co-ordinator Michael Cooper said he was “delighted” with how the Bloody Sunday exhibition hasd turned out.

He added: “We supported the project as it reflects the Creggan connections to Bloody Sunday and which is of massive interest to tourists.

“It will hopefully improve footfall to the area, enhance the fabric of Central Drive and provide another reason for those delivering coach and taxi tours to visit Creggan and other areas of Triax which are rich in political history.”

Gerry Duddy, a member of the Bloody Sunday Trust whose brother Jackie was murdered on Bloody Sunday, said:”This is an excellent piece of work that not only marks the starting point of the Bloody Sunday march but also improves the appearance of the area. It is great to see it erected today.”