Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council lead the Smart Villages Network Project. The project receives €4.9 million from the PEACEPLUS programme. It will convert facilities in Plumbridge, Castlederg and Newtownstewart into digital hubs.

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Declan McAleer and Cllr Fergal Leonard welcomed the funding. Cllr Leonard stated the hubs will create opportunities for businesses, schools and community groups. He noted the council signed the SEUPB letter of offer to start the rollout.

The project targets 12 rural facilities in the North West City Region. It runs until June 2029. Hubs will include Internet of Things systems, 3D printers, 5G connectivity, energy monitoring tools and green retrofits.

Residents and businesses gain access to business mentoring, training programs, digital innovation events and community initiatives. Services cover e-medical consultations, distance learning and e-agriculture support.