Jim Roddy, City Centre Initiative manager.
Funding of £22,000 has been announced to continue a pilot project to bring empty commercial space back in to use in Derry where one in every six premises in the core commercial area of city is currently empty.
“Watch this SPACE” identifies vacant properties for cultural and community uses bringing life back into unoccupied units and the surrounding area.
City Centre Initiative (CCI) will act as project promoter and liaise with landlords to match suitable spaces with potential tenants, who will be able to avail of short term leases.
While the project will focus mainly on premises that are in a good state of repair, CCI will explore possible sources of funding to enable the refurbishment of buildings requiring internal repairs.
CCI City Centre Manager, Jim Roddy said vacancy remained a “big issue” in the city centre and the continuation of a dedicated project officer post allowed the progress made to date, working on overcoming challenges, to be sustained.
He added: “We continue to work alongside stakeholders, landlords and potential tenants to see meanwhile projects realised within the core economic area.”
Announcing the funding Social Development Minister McCausland said vacant property was a “real public concern.”
He added: “Watch this SPACE addresses this concern and helps to bring life back into the city centre with many of the units being used by young creative talent for social activities.
“My Department’s involvement in this project demonstrates our ongoing commitment to improving the overall appearance of the City and promoting community participation and ownership.
“The additional funding will continue to increase the potential for use of vacant buildings in key locations in a way that can add value to the city centre, stimulating local businesses and employment.”
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