SDLP East Derry MLA John Dallat said an extension of the natural gas network from Limavady to serve Ballykelly, including the former army barracks at Shackleton and Greysteel would bring enormous economic benefits to the area.

He said it will also make a significant contribution to tackling fuel poverty which now affects 40% of the population.

Mr Dallat who is working closely with council Colleagues Orla Beattie, Gerry Mullan and Michael Coyle to roll out the gas pipeline said: "The provision of a gas pipeline to the North West was based on the argument that it would bring significant improvements to an area which historically has suffered disproportionate social and economic disadvantage over many years.

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"It is now time to deliver on the perceived benefits which permitted the approval of the pipeline in the first place. It is not good enough, as claimed, that this may not happen for another 15 years.

"The ball needs to begin rolling and in collaboration with my council colleagues we will be knocking on the doors of various government bodies as well as Firmus to deliver what we believe was the bigger plan for natural gas in the North West.

"We have also asked for an early meeting with the Gas Regulator to establish what can be done to ensure that commitments or obligations are lived up to.

"The provision of natural gas to the now vacant site at the former army barracks at Ballykelly is an absolute must if we are to attract sufficient interest from potential investors, particularly from overseas. It is also the key to ensuring that the several hundred former army homes have a choice in the supply of energy. The same applied to all other existing businesses and private homes in this large part of the North West including Greysteel."

(CD/GK)