£16Ok for phase four of Waterside Greenway project

It follows a £160,223 funding announcement from Communities Minister Paul Givan in support of the scheme, which will open up public access into the Gransha estate and will connect directly with the end of the phase three close to the Foyle Bridge.

The funding has been made available to Derry City and Strabane District Council who are working in partnership with the Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT) and the department to deliver the project.

Mr Givan said: “This project is a great example of partnership working between my department, the council and the trust to deliver improvements for the local community. The extension of the Greenway network will provide direct access into the Gransha estate, creating a safe and accessible route for cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy and brings my Department’s investment in the Waterside Greenway to a total of over £600,000.”

The work includes the creation of a 0.5km pedestrian and cycle path and the provision of street lighting and litter bins.

The Mayor, Alderman Hilary McClintock, said: “This development will enhance the already impressive greenway network which is linking communities across the city, giving people access to high quality green space.

“It will also encourage local people to make healthier lifestyle choices by providing them with more environmentally friendly travel options, and encouraging them to take up leisure activities such as walking, running and cycling.”

Commenting on behalf of the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Teresa Molloy, director of Performance Management and Service Improvement, said: “The Western Trust has worked closely with Derry City and Strabane Council over the last year to plan the new access arrangements from the Greenway onto Gransha Park, and we are delighted that the scheme will now move ahead.

“As a trust we work hard to promote all aspects of health improvement with our staff and the public, and the Waterside Greenway project will deliver a great resource for the local community to have a healthier active lifestyle. The project is a great example of the Trust, the Council and the Department for Communities working in partnership to make this project a reality.”

Construction is expected to be complete by June 2017.