Derry City and Strabane District Council is consulting residents on plans to spend £45 million on the River Foyle riverfront in Londonderry. The funding forms part of a £300 million-plus City Deal package.

The council views the investment as a chance to enhance a key public space along the quayside, which draws joggers, dog walkers and families. Regeneration programme manager Joanne Benison stated the goal is to create public spaces that local people value and that draw visitors. She stressed the need for public input on the project.

Residents offered varied suggestions during outreach in March. Pauline Doherty called for improvements to make the area more welcoming, including better use of existing features like summer flowers and views of boats and water activities. Ava Dreyer proposed adding public art, picnic areas and more room for bikes and walkers to ease crowding.

Beth Armstrong, walking with her children aged one and three, requested summer activities such as picnic benches and play areas. Abi Savage, a student at Ulster University's Magee campus, argued the funds should go to road repairs instead. Her friend Lauren Smiley prioritised health services, dental care and addressing homelessness over quayside enhancements.

Financial journalist Paul Gosling noted competing demands, including Ulster University expansion to 10,000 students and related road needs, amid Stormont's projected £1 billion overspend next year. He supported improving the riverfront to counter unattractive buildings and better link the university to the city centre, but questioned if the sum suffices and whether private funding is required.

Benison described the riverfront work as one element in broader regeneration efforts. Londonderry Chamber of Commerce chief executive Anna Doherty encouraged participation to develop promenades and activities along the river. The council invites views online.