Work has begun on rebuilding a Derry “bird hide” which had been destroyed in an arson attack almost two years ago.
Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced £20,000 is to be spent rebuilding the purpose built bird screen located at Fort George, overlooking the Pennyburn Estuary.
A new stone clad “bird hide,” funded under the Social Development Department’s Fort George Infrastructure fund, will be erected in place of the original which was destroyed in a malicious fire in August 2012.
Announcing the start of the construction Minister McCausland said the bird shelter had been “greatly missed” since it was destroyed.
He added: “The shelter is very popular with ornithologists, schools and local families who use it to observe the rich variety of wildlife in the Foyle
“The riverside walkway, the site of the bird hide, also boasts the only World War II jetty in Northern Ireland and last month I announced £20,000 to repair the jetty after an accident.
“This walkway is one of the best used and most attractive natural amenities in the city.”
He concluded: “The reinstatement of the purpose built bird hide and the repair of the jetty will further enhance the enjoyment of all those who use the walkway.”
The rebuild has been welcomed by Sinn Féin councillor Mickey Cooper.
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