Multi-million pound plans to transform parts of Derry City centre have been backed by NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.

Ms Ritchie was in northwest region to view a public exhibition detailing the £8m regeneration scheme, proposed for Guildhall Square and Waterloo Place.

The exhibition, commissioned by the Minister's department, illustrates a number of key regeneration projects, including the installation of a new water features in Guildhall Square, specially created public art works and a striking canopy structure in Waterloo Place.

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Ms Ritchie said: "The regeneration of the Guildhall Square/Waterloo Place area will create a high quality public space that will attract people into the city centre.

"As is evident from the remodelled Newmarket Street, good urban design creates better public spaces that serve all the community, providing places to meet, relax and do business.

"It will ensure that the Derry public is kept informed of the improvements planned for the City and that everyone is aware of the scale of the transformation taking place in Derry," added the Minister.

Derry Mayor Gerard Diver welcomed the Minister's £8million investment to revamp and regenerate the city centre.

"The Public Realm Scheme when completed will create a modern, contemporary and confident image of a city that is looking towards a new future," he said.

"The detailed construction and engineering works along with unique features will bring life and vitality to the Guildhall Square, Waterloo Place, William Street and Newmarket Street areas of the city and entice more residents, visitors and shoppers to these areas," added the Mayor.

(PR)