Speaking in the historic surroundings of the eighteenth century Bishop’s Palace the Minister said: "This plan marks a new beginning in the care and development of this important historic monument which is the largest in state care in Northern Ireland. The plan has evolved from observation, research and most importantly from detailed discussions with the widest possible group of stakeholders. It will form the basis of future decision making to ensure that the monument’s full potential to this city and to Northern Ireland can be achieved."
The Conservation Plan is a joint publication between the DOE Environment and Heritage Service, Derry City Council, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and ILEX URG, the coordinating body for the Integrated Development Fund. Lead consultants in the project were Alastair Coey Architects and the publication forms part of the Walled City Signature Destination Project.
The aim of the Conservation Plan is to clearly explain what is important about the historic structure, why it is considered important and to set out a vision for the future with a set of agreed policies to guide works. This will provide a strong agreed framework where everyone involved can be clear on the basis of future decisions.
NOTES TO EDITORS
- Derry’s walls have been restored to a high standard over the last ten years but the new century brings new challenges of increased tourism and development.
- The Signature Destination Project championed by Derry City Council, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and ILEX aims to use the walls as the key draw for tourists to the city. Increased prosperity is bringing new development which may impact upon the monument if not handled well. Anti social behaviour, increased traffic flow and parking and the remaining security installations on the walls all have an impact upon the monument. The plan considers all of these issues and offers direction.
- A key part of the plan considers the management of the structure The city walls are an open and accessible monument within a busy urban setting and it is not possible or desirable for one agency to take all the decisions. However better management will help to ensure that full potential is reached. Currently the fabric is maintained by EHS; Derry City Council own the cannons and carry out cleaning functions and organise events; DRD Roads Service maintains the surface of the monument and its lighting; the City Centre Initiative has evolved a role in security through its wardens; and the Honourable the Irish Society, though having devolved responsibility to the State in 1955, are still owners and retain a keen interest in the structure. There are many other stakeholders with roles such as tour guides and arts organisations.
- The plan proposes that the present informal links between the key agencies involved will be formalised into a management group. Meetings with the wider group of stakeholders should take place annually. A management plan which sets out contacts and gives detailed advice on management issues such as event planning will guide this groups decisions as they consider the priorities for the monument over coming years.
- Copies of the Conservation Plan are available from Derry City Council Offices on Strand Road or from the DOE Planning Service office at Orchard House and will be available at www.ehsni.gov.uk.
- News media enquiries contact DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
