A planning application to develop a new leisure centre in Co L'Derry has been rejected.

Sinn Féin said the decision by unionists to oppose the development is "extremely disappointing".

Councillor Sean McGlinchey: "This is despite the fact that the money for this leisure centre has been secured from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and that the business case has been passed by the Department of Finance and Personnel.

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"Clearly there are still those within unionism who are more concerned with narrow and petty sectarianism than providing facilities for those they were elected to serve.

"It is encouraging that at least some unionists were able to see beyond the narrow viewpoint of others and support the development of a much needed sporting facility which would benefit everyone in the entire local community."

(CD/LM)