SDLP Councillor Martin Reilly has welcomed the announcement by the Environment Minister Alex Attwood of over half a million pounds funding for a programme of environmental improvements to tackle dereliction in Derry in the lead up to City of Culture 2013.

Cllr Reilly, who as Chair of L'Derry City Council's Development Committee called for the funding boost earlier this year, said: "In March this year, as Chair of the Council’s Development Committee, I organised a presentation from the Walled City Partnership demonstrating that there were a number of historic buildings in Derry which needed attention and investment.

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"I am delighted that Minister Alex Attwood has recognised the importance of investing in our built heritage – right across Derry – in advance of City of Culture 2013.

"Buildings are more than just bricks and mortar – they tell a story of our city’s past – and it is welcome news that a number of them are to get a fresh lease of life as we look to the future."

(CD/GK)