The £6.5 million Derg Active Project in Castlederg is moving forward thanks to a major appointment.

A consultant team has agreed a deal to lead on the Green Infrastructure elements of the regeneration plans.

GM Design will now work with Derry City and Strabane District Council on the ambitious project, which will promote more active living in the Castlederg area through a range of new outdoor facilities. These include the design and delivery of a high quality public realm scheme in the Diamond, upgraded, new play facilities and enhanced connectivity.

Welcoming the news, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Sandra Duffy, said: "I am delighted to see further progress on this major project which will really enhance the lives of those living in and around the Castlederg area.

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"The state of the art new facilities will encourage more people to engage in outdoor recreation locally, and significantly improve the green infrastructure in the area, providing people with an alternative and more sustainable option when it comes to travel. I am so pleased to see this major investment in Castlederg, which I hope will lead to further development and investment in the area."

GM Design and Officers will commence a local engagement process in early 2023, with an initial focus on the regeneration of the Diamond Realm aspect of the Derg Active Programme. The projects are expected to be completed by March 2025.

The Derg Active initiative is one of three exciting local redevelopment projects to benefit from over £16m from the UK wide Levelling Up Fund. Other projects include the Daisyfield Community Sports Hub, which received £4.2m, and the Acorn Farm St Columb's Park Regeneration project allocated £5.6m.