A £1.1m project designed to transform the street scape in some parts of Derry city centre has been completed.

The news follows DSD Minister Margaret Ritchie's announcement yesterday to further expand the environmental improvement scheme in the city.

Derry's Newmarket and Linenhall Street now boasts public art designs depicting the history of the area; landscaped areas encompassing new lighting and street furniture; improved roadways; and upgraded footpaths.

The Department for Social Development-led project also included the construction of a decorative wall outside the Richmond Centre, and the installation of high quality steps between Newmarket Street and the Richmond Centre.

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Minister Margaret Ritchie said: "This is an example of how good urban design can maximise the potential of public space. Not only will it improve the appearance of the area but will also help it to function more efficiently, and attract a greater flow of people through one of the busiest locations in the city.

"I would like to thank the contractor, and all involved for their work. I am sure that the project's city centre location presented many difficult challenges."

The city's new artwork was commissioned by Eleanor Wheeler. The pieces celebrate the area's past as a market space and its present - as an area for entertainment with the Playhouse theatre and former Rialto cinema.

"Good public art adds interest and focus to our streets and can contribute to positive memories of Derry for visitors and local people," Ms Ritchie added.

Artist Eleanor Wheeler said: "My approach has always been to mark the place - it's like that well worn phrase, turning spaces into places. Certainly a lot of the stuff that I do is to try and determine what has been in a place previously and celebrate that; drawing people's attention to what has gone on before - preferably the quirky, personal details that exist on a human scale."

See: Minister Backs £8m Derry Regeneration

(PR/JM)