Planners are considering proposals for a new £50m development in Drumahoe that could bring 300 jobs back to the north west.

According to the BBC, the development would be built on the site of the former Desmonds factory, which employed almost 300 people when it closed in 2004.

The scheme would include an ice rink, bowling alley, and eight-pitch indoor soccer dome, as well as shops and restaurants.

If permission is given, building could start on the site in late 2011.

-- Advertisement --

Speaking to BBC Radio Foyle, architect John Smiley from WDR and RT Taggart confirmed that planning permission was applied for in August 2009, but they have just submitted further documentation: a retail impact assessment and visual impact assessment.

"We hope to soon meet again with the planners to agree the content of those documents, but we're confident that what we have produced will answer any queries that they may have," he said.

"Clearly it's a large scheme so it probably will exceed the two month statutory period for the planners to make a decision."

Mr Smiley said the project would go out to tender in mid-2011, should the application receive approval.

Developer David Gilmour is said to be keen to move forward with the development, according to the BBC report.

(NS/BMcC)