A conservation specialist has been appointed to restore four historic war memorials across L'Derry City and Strabane District.

Derry City and Strabane District Council has appointed Irish Stone to carry out restoration and essential maintenance works at memorials in The Diamond in Derry city centre, Castlederg, Sion Mills and Strabane.

The project is being supported by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through the PEACE Plus Programme and aims to preserve the memorials while promoting greater understanding of the district's shared history.

Irish Stone will carry out the conservation work alongside Consarc Conservation Architects, which is providing specialist conservation architecture services.

-- Advertisement --

The works will include specialist stone repointing, conservation of bronze elements, cleaning and painting, landscaping improvements and measures to improve accessibility.

A cross-community outreach programme will also form part of the project, with RAPID, North West Cultural Partnership and Creggan Enterprises engaging with local community groups, schools and organisations across the district.

The programme will provide opportunities for participants to learn about the historical significance of the memorials, explore shared heritage and discuss themes including remembrance, peace and reconciliation.

The PEACE Plus-funded initiative is intended to promote peace and reconciliation, improve understanding of different traditions and histories, and create more welcoming and inclusive shared spaces.

Works at The Diamond War Memorial will also complement wider regeneration plans for Derry city centre, including City Deal public realm, streetscape and lighting improvements.

The restoration programme forms part of the council's wider efforts to protect the district's built heritage while supporting positive community relations and engagement across local communities.

The works are expected to take approximately three months to complete.