Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced that work is due to start on a £400,000 Public Realm scheme in Londonderry.

The appointed contractor, Whitemountain, is due to begin work on Queens Quay later this month.

Nelson McCausland said: "The riverfront in Londonderry is one of the city's great assets and this project will transform a key part of the riverside. As we gear up for the UK City of Culture celebrations in 2013, this will be one of many schemes to be delivered.

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"The environmental improvements will create a vibrant pedestrian setting which will improve access to the new Peace Bridge. I am fully committed to preparing the city for next year’s celebrations."

The Queens Quay area is cited in the Riverside Masterplan as one of the most attractive spaces for events.

The Department has worked closely in partnership with Roads Service, the City Council and the Planning Service to develop a scheme that will provide a cycle path, pedestrian walkway, street furniture, planting and lighting. The scheme complements the resurfacing works that were carried out last year and will result in the pedestrianisation of part of the Queens Quay car park.

(CD/GK)