An outline planning application for Fort George is to be submitted or a range of potential uses including housing, offices, student accommodation, hotels, leisure, shops and bars and restaurants.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said it will be up to the market to decide what is ultimately developed on the prime riverside site.

Mr. Lyons said: “My department’s vision for the Fort George site is of a vibrant mixed-use development that will accommodate a range of potential uses and become a thriving and attractive place where people will want to visit.”

He was speaking after his department submitted a Proposal for Application Notice (PAN) in relation to the forthcoming application for Outline Planning.

An artist's impression of how Fort George might look.

placeholder image — An artist's impression of how Fort George might look.

“The PAN description submitted ensures flexibility for a range of potential uses, such as office, residential and student accommodation, hotel, leisure, retail, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

"The regeneration of the site will support employment, investment, and placemaking outcomes for the residents of and visitors to Londonderry, with high quality public realm linking the site to the existing Quay trail, greenway, and the wider city.

"It is envisaged that Outline Planning will provide a framework for a wide range of uses, ultimately however it will be up to the market to decide the ultimate end uses that best serve the city,” said Mr. Lyons.

The site is owned by the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Western Health and Social Care Trust.

An outline planning application for Fort George is to be submitted or a range of potential uses including housing, offices, student accommodation, hotels, leisure, shops and bars and restaurants.

Mr. Lyons said the Department has been working in conjunction with the Trust regarding their plans for a health and care centre on the former military barracks with the Trust submitting a Full Planning Application for the proposed Cityside Health & Care Centre and Multi-Storey Carpark at the end of July 2025.

DfC is currently finalising plans for an Outline Planning Application for the regeneration of the remaining DfC-owned plots for a future mixed-use development.

The Department plans to hold public information events regarding the planning application process early in 2026, details regarding these will be available at a later date.

Fort George is a former military base which is situated on the west bank of the River Foyle. DfC (then DSD) acquired the site in 2004.