Derry City and Strabane District Council officers met with Castlederg business owners and residents to minimise community impacts from public realm works in the town centre. The engagement forms part of the £6.5 million Derg Active project, funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

The initiative targets economic, health, wellbeing, social and environmental improvements, including regeneration of the Diamond area into a pedestrian-friendly public space.

Local businesses raised concerns about disruption in recent months. A meeting occurred on March 20 with affected businesses, political representatives, the contractor and council officers.

Council officers plan to maintain contact with those impacted, update businesses on project progress and schedule a follow-up meeting. The council recognises challenges for businesses near construction sites and aims to address issues early through collaboration with the contractor, design team and stakeholders.