Minister Ritchie approves £3.2million for remedial works at Fort George site, Derry.

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie today announced funding of £3.2million to facilitate a specific programme of remedial and infrastructure works at Fort George, Derry.

Ilex will oversee the programme of works which is the first practical step in preparing to bring the Fort George site to the market.

The works will include:

• The removal of polluted sand, silt and other debris from the Pennyburn Channel;
• Repairs to the quay wall on the River Foyle and remediation of the bank of the Pennyburn estuary following dredging;
• Repairs to the surface of the concrete jetty dating from World War 2, including the installation of lighting and new steel railings;
• The opening of the jetty to pedestrians and cyclists as an extension to the foot and cycle path.

Announcing the funding Margaret Ritchie said: “At the recent launch of the Ilex foot and cycle bridge I said that while the river Foyle is one of Derry’s greatest assets, its potential has not been realised. We need therefore to reintegrate the river with the city centre and this work at Fort George is the first step to achieving this. It is of critical importance that we fully realise the potential of this superb river front location.”

“I have therefore provided funding of £3.2million to allow Ilex to undertake a specific programme of remediation and infrastructural works as a practical first step in implementing the Fort George Master plan which I launched in late 2007.”

The mixed use redevelopment of Fort George will include education and research activities, office accommodation, including space for targeted economic sectors, together with residential and leisure use. The Ilex Corporate Plan commits the organisation to having 30% of the site built out, or under construction by March 2011.

The immediate programme of remedial works is necessary to deal with the dereliction, pollution and infrastructural problems that characterise the existing river frontage.

Concluding the Minister said: “These works will complement the cycle path already completed at Fort George and in allowing access to the upgraded jetty will enable local people to get much closer to the river and enjoy the magnificent views from this location.”

Notes to Editors:

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