Derry City and Strabane District Council selected FP McCann Ltd as lead contractor for Strabane's £7m public realm project. The work receives £6.3m from the Department for Communities and £700,000 from the council. Construction starts this spring.

The project covers Abercorn Square, Butcher Street, Castle Street, Main Street, and Railway Street. It includes new lighting, footpaths, improved traffic flow, removal of the Market Street toilet block, and relocation of the Abercorn Square taxi rank to Market Street.

Mayor Cllr Ruairí McHugh called the project key to Strabane's economic future. He said it aims to attract visitors, workers, and investment while supporting local businesses.

A public information session takes place Thursday, March 26, at Strabane Library from 2.30pm to 7pm. Residents and businesses can attend or submit feedback via an online survey at www.derrystrabane.com/strabanepublicrealm.

McHugh visited Learmount Community Centre in Park Village and Glenmoran Community Association in March. The visits occurred in the Sperrins District Electoral Area.

He met volunteers, staff, and residents at the groups. McHugh said the organisations provide connection, support, and companionship to local people. He noted the volunteers' commitment sustains the groups and highlighted their challenges and successes.

The community visit programme runs from October 2025 to May 2026. It targets one District Electoral Area each month. The Mayor's Office and Community Development team coordinate with Local Growth Partnership Boards to select groups.