New Destination Derry initiative to promote city as ideal base

The ‘Destination Derry’ initiative created by local businessman Michael Taggart from Taggart Homes aims to attract new investors and those who wish to relocate to the area to experience a more balanced life in the wake of Covid-19.

Organisations such as local Chamber of Commerce, City Centre Initiative, Foyleside Shopping Centre, City of Derry Airport and Seagate Technology are some of the bodies collaborating on this project, Mr Taggart’s company said.

The Destination Derry team said they are keen to make sure that the initiative aligns with the wider city and county ambitions through communications with Derry City & Strabane Council and various government departments.

The group aims to promote Derry as offering as “a great work/life balance,” which involves “in many cases a short drive to work or may be close enough to walk or cycle”, which they say means people have “more time for family, friends and recreation”, and “more time to live”.

The website www.destinationderry.com is being set up a portal to the knowledge of all the agencies, bodies and communities “who want to welcome others to live, work and visit our beautiful city and county”.

The project is an addition to the many initiatives and projects currently running in the area, and involves everyone working together to promote Derry’s strengths to the outside world in “a collective voice”.

Destination Derry also aims to deliver practical supports and information required by those who plan to return or relocate to the area, and to those who already call Derry their home.

Michael Taggart, from Taggart Homes, said: “Taggart Homes is delighted to power this initiative and work with everyone in the community to promote some of the fantastic qualities of Derry, which have attracted companies and visitors from all over the world, showcasing resilience and community spirit as one of its greatest assets.”

Mr Taggart invited all business and community organisations to include their voice in the initiative and visit and to visit www.taggarthomes.com/news/destination-derry to learn more.

“With remote working a key factor in our future, we believe the time is right for people to Live, Learn, Work and Invest in our region - an area that is constantly evolving, where people will find a warm welcome, an easy affordable lifestyle, steeped in culture and beauty,” he said.

The launch of the Destination Derry initiative and website is planned for later this month.

The team are keen to hear from any business interested in being part of the project, any local person who loves where they live, or anyone looking for information on relocating to the region.

You can visit www.destinationderry.com to fill out an expression of interest, or call 028 71277900 for further information.