Ministers launch draft regeneration plan for Derry

The deputy First Minister and the Minister for Social Development this afternoon attended an event in Derry’s Waterside Theatre to launch the draft Regeneration Plan (Mark II) for the city.

The new draft plan, which was commissioned by Ministers, will set the vision of transformational change for the city in terms of building a more vibrant economy with increased prosperity, in ways which will ensure that opportunities and benefits from regeneration are targeted towards the most deprived groups.

Speaking at the Launch the deputy First Minister said: "Regeneration is not something we do to our communities but something we do in conjunction with them. In taking time to craft this Mark 11 Regeneration Plan, Ilex has ensured that those communities most affected by disadvantage and neglect have had a voice in the decision making process and the potential outcomes which will be part of shaping their futures.

He went on to say: "Of course it is not enough that we merely deal with aspirations, we also need to be prepared to turn that vision into a concrete reality. We will measure our success against whether we see changes in the patterns of poverty, deprivation and disadvantage. I am confident that this new Regeneration plan will ensure that the City does not prosper whilst leaving our people behind, they must go hand in hand."

Social Development Minister Alex Attwood said: ''This plan will set the agenda for the next phase in the regeneration of Derry. The decisions we take and the priorities agreed for the plan will influence the shape of the City for future generations.

"It essential to all of this is that those in need and disadvantaged are at the heart of the regeneration and opportunities of the city.

"Much has already been achieved in Derry in recent years. The city is experiencing an exciting renaissance and beginning to achieve its full potential. My Department has played a major role in bringing this about. However, I want to continue facilitating regeneration. Pound for pound across government funding streams urban regeneration makes sense. It helps build stable communities, creates and sustains jobs and improves the economy, allowing people to work and live together.

"It is important to hear the views of the widest possible cross-section of people to this plan. It will only succeed if it gains the support of local communities, politicians, statutory agencies and the business community. Derry has proven many times before that it rises to challenge, I am certain it will do so again."

Notes to editors:

1. Part of the consultation will include an Equality Impact Assessment. The consultation will last for a period of 12 weeks.
2. All media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1905. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440.