Derry's city centre streets have been transformed into a shopper-friendly area thanks to a £1.1 million cash boost.
The area, focusing on Newmarket and Linenhall Streets, was officially unveiled by the Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie during a visit to the city this week.
The project includes a public art piece depicting the history of the area, la
ndscaping, new lighting and street furniture.
It also features a decorative wall outside the Richmond Centre and the installation of high quality steps between Newmarket Street and the Richmond Centre.
Welcoming the completion of the project this week, the Minister said: “The completion of this work has significantly enhanced the Newmarket and Linenhall Street areas.
“It is an example of how good urban design can maximise the potential of public space.
“Not only will it improve the appearance of the area but will also help it to function more efficiently, and attract a greater flow of people through one of the busiest locations in the city.”
Eleanor Wheeler, the artist commissioned for the work, said: “There is a lot of good public art around celebrating and marking the identity and diversity of communities and places.
“My approach has always been to mark the place - it's like that well worn phrase, turning spaces into places.
“Certainly a lot of the stuff that I do is to try and determine what has been in a place previously and celebrate that, drawing people's attention to what has gone on before - preferably the quirky, personal details that exist on a human scale.”
The full article contains 260 words and appears in Journal Friday DER Edition newspaper.
