PHASE ONE COMPLETED FOR WALLED CITY SIGNATURE PROJECT

15 January 2007

Tourism Minister, Maria Eagle, has celebrated the completion of Phase One of the Walled City Signature Project at a special event at Derry's Guildhall.

The event highlights a significant milestone in the development of this project led by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) in partnership with Ilex, the co-ordinating body for Integrated Development Fund (IDF) funding, and project commissioners Derry City Council.

Phase One sees the completion, over the past two years, of a number of projects such as visitor signage and orientation. It also includes the regeneration of tourism attractions such as the Tower Museum and the Armada Exhibition as well as the production of a conservation plan for the historic city walls.

As the only completely walled city in Ireland, Londonderry is recognised as an authentic tourism treasure. £9.1 million of Integrated Development Funding has been earmarked by the Secretary of State to carry out Phase Two which entails the implementation of a city lighting scheme, a built heritage programme - which will include the restoration of a number of buildings along the city walls - and a culture and animation programme.

Minister Eagle commented: "Tourism is now positioned at the centre of economic development and I am committed to ensuring that its huge potential is realised. The success of the Signature Projects is instrumental in the growth of tourism in Northern Ireland and I am pleased to see the level of progress that has taken place on the WalledCity Signature Project.

"With the completion of Phase One, we can all look forward with optimism to the entire completion of this project by 2010 which will successfully combine all of the core elements of a great visitor experience."

Finance Minister David Hanson MP, said: "The Integrated Development Fund was established by Government to promote an integrated approach to local development. This project was one of 11 projects identified by Ilex for assistance under the Fund and I am pleased that progress continues to be made and look forward to the completion of Phase Two."

NITB chairman Tom McGrath is also optimistic about the project and its potential to deliver international standout on the travel map and inspire pride in its residents. Mr McGrath commented: "The overarching objective of the Walled City Signature Project is to develop a competitive product that will attract more visitors to the region. The success of this project in achieving its tourism potential can be attributed to the integration of the walled area, physically, socially and economically, with the surrounding cityscape. The developments to date bode well for the successful implementation of Phase Two."

Chief Executive of Ilex, Bill Kirk, commented: "Tourism is a key driver in the economic regeneration of the city and the Signature Project formed a core part of Ilex's bid to the Integrated Development Fund. Today's event is the first in a series of announcements to be made over the coming months of key strategic projects across the city in the fields of tourism, enterprise, education, and arts and culture".

Speaking on behalf of project coordinator Derry City Council, Mayor Cllr Helen Quigley said the completion of Phase One of the Walled City Signature Project will successfully improve the visitor experience in the city. She added: "Derry City Council is keen to realise the potential of the city's superb built environment, thriving cultural sector and rich fabric of social and political history. Ensuring the visitor experience is memorable and enjoyable is key to greater recommendations, repeat business and helping to underpin sustainable tourism growth for Derry. Phase One of the project will certainly build upon the city's potential in an innovative and fascinating way".

NOTES TO EDITORS:

For media enquiries, contact DETI Press Office, Tel: 9052 9353.

For further information contact NITB Communications Department; 028 9044 1638.