Bloody Sunday Trust chair Tony Doherty calls for ‘common sense’ approach to Free Derry Corner renovation
Bloody Sunday Trust Chair Tony Doherty has called for a ‘common sense and collaborative approach’ to securing the future of Free Derry Wall.
"Free Derry Wall isn’t just a local monument; it’s an icon of the civil rights era and of freedom from British rule in Ireland. It is recognised internationally as a symbol of solidarity among struggling peoples throughout the world. It is important that we nurture and respect the wall as both a local and national treasure,” he said.
He issued the call after disagreement was aired over renovation of the landmark.
"The wall has been in common ownership for decades and has suffered two physical attacks in the 1970s and 80s from British Army vehicles bent on its destruction.
"They failed. It was built back up by local people and has been maintained by many political and community activists for many years.
"As it is fully exposed to the elements, it has been showing its age recently and is due to be radically overhauled to secure its long-term future. In October last year, the Trust engaged a well-known Derry construction firm who carried out a structural engineer’s survey and provided an outline scheme of works which would keep it safe and protected for many years to come.
"Work will be due to commence as soon as the weather is conducive. The works are in some measure straight-forward but there are also several complex structural engineering elements which require a diligent, professional approach,” he said.
Mr. Doherty described a recent fundraising appeal for repairs as ‘well-intentioned’ but asked those behind it to ‘reconsider their approach’.
"The wall is more than 150 years old. Any works carried out to preserve it should be carried out by a professional firm. I am very concerned that an ad-hoc approach will not render the wall safe and sound and will indeed endanger its future.
"I am also concerned about the potential safety hazards involved if the approach is less than professional. The Free Derry Wall precinct is flanked on both sides by dual carriageways, has walkways and zebra crossings on both sides and is an attraction for tourists and sightseers.
"Therefore, site security and proper public liability insurances must be an integral part of the professional approach to restore the wall to its full glory,” he said.