Regeneration plans offer potential for 400 new homes for Derry says Ritchie

Plans were today announced which could see 400 new homes, as well as new play areas and community facilities, in the Galliagh and Carnhill areas of Derry city.

The regeneration plans which will be open to public consultation today, propose a new vision for shaping future developments in an area with plenty of open green spaces, but which lacks in play and community facilities and has a growing need for housing.

Speaking on behalf of Minister Ritchie, Michael Sands, deputy director of housing said: "This is good news for Derry, providing much needed housing and play facilities. Consultation with local people is the key to delivering a successful regeneration plan. The Minister welcomes the work that has been carried out so far in developing this strategy and is pleased that staffed exhibitions in Galliagh and Carnhill are centre stage in this exercise.

“The consultation document, appropriately entitled, ‘Your Community - Your Future’ represents her Department’s commitment, through the Housing Executive and its partners to sustain and develop this community.”

Sean Mackie, the Housing Executive’s West Area Manager added: "The regeneration plan booklet has been produced by the Housing Executive following consultation with Galliagh Development Trust, the North West Development Office, Outer North Neighbourhood Partnership and representatives from Derry City Council. It addresses problems such as need for more housing and play areas.

"Galliagh and Carnhill are popular estates with long waiting lists. These proposals show how a very small proportion of open spaces in the area could be developed for the benefit of the whole community. There is potential to build around 400 new homes over a period of 10 to 15 years. This is based on current and projected levels of housing need.”

Mr Mackie continued: "Following the consultation we will reflect on the concerns raised and, if it is necessary, we will review and amend our plans. We will then seek outline planning approval for the overall master plan."

Notes to editors:

1. Those who wish to comment will be able to contact the Housing Executive Collon District office on 03448 920 900, in writing or via e-mail at collon.terrace@nihe.gov.uk. Their comments will be acknowledged and passed to the strategy team. They will also have a further opportunity to comment at Planning Application stage.
2. There will be three staffed exhibitions of the Galliagh and Carnhill Proposed Regeneration Plan. Housing Executive staff, partners and consultants will be on hand to talk through all aspects of the proposals. Locations and dates are:
   · St Therese’s Primary school, Lenamore, Galliagh – Monday 15 March 2010 from 4.00pm to 6.00pm.
   · St Brigid’s Primary school, Carnhill – Monday 15 March 2010 from 7.30pm until 9.00pm.
   · St Paul’s Primary School. Slievemore, Galliagh _ Tuesday 16 March 2010 from 4.00pm until 6.00pm.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9497 or Ciara McGuigan on 07792 150 486. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.