MEMBERS of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee this week gave the go ahead for an environmental improvement scheme to the existing Bishop Street Car Park which will improve its physical appearance and improve pedestrian access and permeability.
The plans, which were unanimously approved by members, include the removal of the existing high boundary walls along Bishop Street and Stable Lane and its replacement with a more attractive boundary wall and railing.
The project will also include works to the northern boundary of the car park adjacent to St. Augustine’s Church Hall by replacing the current high level railings with new boundary features, as well as creating a dedicated ramped pedestrian access point from the car park onto Palace Street.
The project is being funded by the Department for Communities and will be delivered by Derry City & Strabane District Council, with construction work due to commence in the coming weeks.
Chair of the Council’s Planning Committee, Councillor Christopher Jackson, welcomed the plans, saying they would contribute to the visitor experience in the area.
“I am delighted to see this work get the go ahead today, it will have a significant positive impact on the surroundings within the Historic City Conservation Area.
“It will help to enhance direct pedestrian access within this important part of the inner Walled City creating new opportunities to access Bishop Street, the City Walls and Palace Street.
“Improved pedestrian access will be of great benefit to tourists and also those with limited mobility or families with prams.
“It will also help to make a big difference during some of the major events which draw large crowds onto the Walls.
“The replacement of some of the walls and railings with new brickwork and materials that are more sympathetic to the visual character of the historic setting will also aesthetically enhance the area.
“I hope to see the work commencing as soon as possible and would like to thank the Department for Communities for providing the funding required to deliver this project.”
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