The Gallery, in the Fountain Estate, was developed to celebrate and explain Protestant history and culture in the West Bank of Derry. It will also host visiting groups and be used as a starting point for walking tours of the Fountain area.
Margaret Ritchie said: “My Department has been able to provide nearly £52,000 through the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund towards this new facility. It will provide local people and visitors with a balanced experience of the difficulties encountered by both traditions in the City. The Thiepval Gallery is the first of its kind to highlight the history and culture of Protestants living in the Cityside.”
Peter Simpson, Chairman of the Bob Harte Memorial Trust, promoters of the Thiepval Gallery said: “The creation of the Thiepval Gallery is a fitting memorial to Bob Harte. When the Gallery is fully operational, we will have created a social history of the Fountain during the twentieth century and a place to display many artefacts collected over that period by the late Bob Harte. The Gallery will be used to educate both our own community and visitors of the rich social history that lies within the Fountain area.”
During her trip to Derry, the Minister visited an Oaklee sheltered housing scheme for the elderly. She also met with a number of key stakeholders in the Fountain Estate to hear their views on regeneration proposals for the area and was taken on a tour of the Estate.
Notes to Editors:
- The Thiepval Gallery is located at 2 George's Street, The Fountain, Derry.
- Media enquiries to DSD Press Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
