A £1.2 million grant has been allocated to the Inner City Trust by Northern Ireland Communities Minister Gordon Lyons for the purchase and restoration of a former department store in County L'Derry.

The grant aims to address dereliction and vacancy in the historic city centre, focusing on the landmark listed building, which was formerly the Austins department store, that has been vacant for nine years. The funding will enable the Trust to purchase the property and begin immediate restoration work.

Minister Lyons stated: "I am pleased my Department has been able to fund the purchase of the 'Austins' building. The investment of £1.2million is the first step in the regeneration of this iconic building located at the heart of the Historic Conservation Area."

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He emphasised the transformative impact of the investment on both Austins and the wider city centre, highlighting his commitment to urban regeneration and community growth.

The Venerable Robert Miller, Chairman of the Inner City Trust, praised the announcement as a significant step in revitalising the building. He said: "This investment is a testament to the power of partnership. I am deeply grateful to the Minister and his Department for their commitment to this key project, which aligns seamlessly with the Inner City Trust's vision to drive the physical, social, and economic regeneration of the City Centre."

He highlighted the project's alignment with the Department for Communities' Public Realm Scheme and the Derry City and Strabane District Council's City Deal, sending a message of confidence to investors.