Plans submitted for long-awaited, multi-million Bogside development

Artists' impression of how Meenan Square might look in the Bogside, viewed from the Derry Walls
-Credit:Reach Publishing Services Limited


A major redevelopment project in the Bogside area of Derry has taken a step forward with a full planning application now submitted to Derry City and Strabane District Council.

The redevlopment of Meenan Square - where a number of buildings including the Bogside Inn were demolished in 2021 to make way for an 'Urban Village' project - had been held up for some time until a deal with a landowner was finally agreed in spring 2023.

The plans will see a mixed-use development built at the currently vacant site in the Bogside, with a "community hub" and "essential local amenities" set to be included.

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Sheena McCallion, Chief Executive of Apex Housing Association, said: “We would like to express our thanks to all residents, community stakeholders and elected representatives who took the time to provide their feedback and support for this important project during the consultation process. The regeneration of Meenan Square is about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about building a more vibrant and sustainable community and transforming a significant area of the city for the generations to come.”

A separate local planning application, for the development of eight social homes on the wider site, has also been submitted by Apex to the council with a proposed housing mix of two-bed and three-bed homes.

Ciaran O’Donnell, Project Co-ordinator, Meenan Square Developments Ltd added: “The Meenan Square transformation project will provide a space for all communities to live and thrive in. The submission of the planning applications to the council marks a vital step in the development process and we look forward to engaging positively with DCSDC planners and consultees as the applications make their way to planning committee in the near future.

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“I am extremely grateful for the support and feedback that local residents and interested parties have provided the team during the consultation process as we sought to deliver real and lasting impact in the local community through the revitalisation of Meenan Square.”

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