Londonderry' Waterside Theatre has reopened following a massive refurbishment programme.

Works were undertaken as part of a £4m redevelopment scheme for the north west region.

Allocation of funding for the threatre project was first announced in late 2005.

Significant progress has been made at Waterside, which now boasts a new Gateway Studio, along with a refurbished foyer, box office and coffee bar.

The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure contributed over £800,000 towards works.

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Minister Nelson McCausland welcomed what he described as "the tangible results" that have been produced.

"Londonderry needs a facility like the Waterside Theatre which I am sure will have a positive impact on the lives of both local people and visitors alike," he said.

"DCAL has made a significant contribution to the improvement of our arts infrastructure throughout Northern Ireland.

"Only last week I attended the unveiling of the threshold stone at the Lyric in Belfast, which DCAL committed over £9m funding for."

Brian Sore, Board Member, Arts Council of Northern Ireland said he was delighted to see this project coming to fruition.

"The refurbishment of the building will make a major contribution to the delivery of the arts in the area, making this venue an invaluable part of the cultural infrastructure in Northern Ireland."

(PR/GK)