St Columb’s Park car park and path upgrade

Described by SDLP Councillor John Boyle as a ‘jewel’ in the city, substantial works have already been carried out in the park with the avenue having been completed and tree lined with funding secured from the Department for Communities (DfC). 

Members of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Environment and Regeneration Committee were also informed on Wednesday that since the endorsement of the Regeneration Masterplan, the Walled Garden (Phase 1) has been completed with funding secured from Peace IV.

To date St Columb’s Park public realm works has seen a total investment of around £1m.

Director for Environment and Regeneration, Karen Phillips, said that the next phase in the development is to proceed with the enhancement of the existing car park and pedestrian linkages into the Ebrington estate.

She said: “This involves the enhancement of the existing car park off St Columb’s Park Road and pedestrian linkages into Ebrington at the Peace Tree.

“The capital works have been costed at approximately £210,000 and it is proposed that £185,000 will come from DfC and £25,000 from The Executive Office (TEO).

“A funding application is with the DfC at present with a decision expected shortly and the TEO have confirmed their contribution for the years 2021/2022.”

Sinn Fein Colr. Christopher Jackson offered his party’s support adding: “We have seen over the past year how valuable our public spaces have been and St Columb’s Park in particular. Any steps to improve the public realm we should encourage.”

DUP Alderman Ryan McCready added it was ‘a very worthwhile investment especially as we come out of a pandemic with people staying local and using our green spaces.’

By Gillian Anderson

Local Democracy Reporter