Public invited to shape the future of town centre

STRABANE'S £7m public realm project for the town centre are advancing at pace with the recent appointment of FP McCann Ltd as the lead contractor and work set to commence this spring.

To coincide with this, Derry City and Strabane District Council, who are leading on the project on behalf of the Department for Communities (DfC), are hosting an information event aimed at keeping local businesses, retailers and the wider community fully engaged in the process.

The public information session will be held on Thursday, March 26, at Strabane Library from 2.30pm to 7pm.

The Strabane Public Realm Improvement Plan is backed by £6.3m from DfC and £700,000 from Derry City and Strabane District Council and is aimed at completely transforming the town's aesthetic and functionality.

Among the key features of the scheme are streetscape upgrades including new lighting, high-quality footpaths, and improved traffic flow, as well as revitalisation works across Abercorn Square, Butcher Street, Castle Street, Main Street, and Railway Street.

The works will also see the removal of the Market Street toilet block and the relocation of the Abercorn Square taxi rank to Market Street to improve pedestrian access.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, councillor Ruairí McHugh, described the project as a vital pillar for the town’s economic future.

He said: “This project is about making Strabane a more attractive place to visit, work, and stay.

"Coming on the heels of the £115 million City Deal investment, this £7 million scheme will boost footfall, support our local businesses, and pave the way for new investment.

"It’s vitally important that the local businesses and community have their say to ensure we get it right.”

Council is calling on residents and business owners to attend the session or provide feedback via an online survey.

This feedback is essential for minimising disruption during the construction phase and measuring the project's long-term success.

The event will be held at the Strabane Library (Civic Room) and for those who can’t attend in person they can participate online at:

www.derrystrabane.com/strabanepublicrealm