Regeneration of Derry's Waterside continues - Ritchie

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA, today announced that her Department is to release a further development site to help promote the continuing regeneration of Derry’s Waterside.

The site is centrally located in the commercial heart of the Waterside at Spencer Road/Lower Fountain Hill. It overlooks the River Foyle and is in close proximity to a number of successful developments delivered by DSD in the area.

Launching a development brief for the site, the Minister said: “This is another important development opportunity within the commercial core of the Waterside. I know there is interest in this site and I am now inviting prospective developers to bring forward innovative proposals that will further transform this part of the city.

"I am seeking proposals that will not only redevelop this particular site but which will complement and build on the regeneration work that my department has recently undertaken in partnership with the private sector on Spencer Road.

"I opened the award winning Health and Social Care Centre in December 2007 on Spencer Road, and I am pleased that it has not only set new design standards but also stimulated further investment in the area. The Spencer Road/Fountain Hill site presents another opportunity for the department to work in partnership with others to bring forward a project that will maximise the potential of this location. The end result must be another well designed building housing much needed jobs in this area of the city.”

The publication of the Development Brief will be further advertised in the press and the closing date for submissions is 27 March 2009.

Notes to editors

1. This development site which has been vacant for a number of years is currently in use as a car park. It was offered to the market unsuccessfully in 2003 and 2005.
2. Prospective developers will be required to demonstrate how their proposals meet all of the Department’s objectives contained in the Development Brief.
3. The closing date for the receipt of submissions is 12 noon on Friday, 27 March 2009.
4. The Department for Social Development has recently facilitated and part funded other developments on Spencer Road such as the new Health and Social Care Centre, Fountain House and Gortfoyle House.
5. Copies of the development brief can be obtained from the Department’s North West Development Office, Orchard House, 40 Foyle Street, Londonderry BT48 6AT. Telephone Number 028 7131 9784. E-mail: northwest.development@dsdni.gov.uk. All submissions must be received by 12 noon on Friday 27 March 2009.
6. Media enquires to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.