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The renovation and restoration of the Guildhall will help transform Londonderry into a world-class tourism destination, Arlene Foster has said.
The Tourism Minister was speaking at an event to mark the official re-opening of the Guildhall, which was also attended by Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland, and Environment Minister, Alex Attwood.
Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said: "The Guildhall is a magnificent, historic building and one of L'Derry's most important assets. Completion of the restoration programme means it can now fulfil its full potential as a multi-faceted visitor experience.
"It will also be a key venue during the 2013 UK City of Culture celebrations. It is a particularly nice touch that the two Guildhalls of London and Londonderry will link up to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the city in July with the new 'At Sixes and Sevens' cantata.
"My Department, through the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, has allocated over £14million in investment to Londonderry in recent years through the Walled City Signature Project, made up of the Built Heritage Programme, Walled City Lighting Strategy and a number of other projects.
"I want to see a Walled City that has international standout and visitor appeal and this refurbishment at the Guildhall is another vital piece in that jigsaw."
Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland said: "I am very pleased that the Northern Ireland Executive through DSD has been able to provide £1million towards the cost of this ambitious restoration and refurbishment project, from the UK City of Culture Capital Infrastructure Fund. The investment is part of over £17million which the NI Executive has invested in the city to help prepare Londonderry for 2013.
"The Guildhall restoration project has rejuvenated this part of Londonderry city centre, boosting local people's sense of civic pride. This investment has protected and maintained this key civic listed building for future generations to enjoy, and has also reconfigured its use and maximised its accessibility for residents of the city and tourists."
(CD)
