Former Derry nightclub Earth moved to make way for Café Roc flats

While works progress on the £multi-million office block and on other historic buildings to be occupied by a range of organisations and businesses on the Ebrington site, in the cityside construction work is also progressing at a number of familiar sites.

Once one of the north west’s premier night spots, the former Café Roc / Earth Nightclub complex has been partially demolished with works ongoing to make way for a new apartment complex.

The club was among the first to host VIP nights, celebrity appearances and saw tens of thousands pass through its doors during its years of operation.

Full planning permission for the development was granted back in July 2020 for a housing complex for people aged 55 and over.

The TVL Properties Strand Road development will provide 27 self-contained apartment accommodation units for active older people and was given the go ahead by Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee.

The complex will include a wheelchair accessible unit on the ground floor, with communal open space would be provided on the ground floor level.

Speaking after the plans were approved, Chair of the Planning Committee Councillor Christopher Jackson said he welcomed the fact that this development would see the enhancement of a derelict site that will in turn bring about positive economic prosperity to the area. “I am delighted this premises will be used to house elderly members of the community who will be located in the heart of the city centre with access to all the local amenities and facilities.”