MP concerned at proposed Walled City cuts

The local MP met the Minister on Monday to express his concerns about

the projects affecting the Guildhall, First Derry Presbyterian Church and St. Columb's Cathedral.

Mr Durkan welcomed the Minister's agreement to have officials meet the Council to discuss options for a way forward.

He said: "Obviously the proposed cuts to these projects are a cause of worry on a number of fronts, including tourism potential, a shared future for our city and the built environment.

"These projects will also bring much needed work to craftspeople and those involved in the building trade.

"The Minister outlined the difficult budgetary position which his department is facing. I was nevertheless pleased to note that he has a sympathetic and open-minded approach to the concerns which I have outlined."

St. Columb's

He added: "It now appears that the smaller cut facing St. Columb's Cathedral's works will be absorbed by a lower than expected tender cost, which is welcome news.

"However, there remain significant financial exposures to First Derry and the Guildhall."

Guildhall

He continued: "I outlined to him that the Guildhall project is facing a major retraction of 387,000 which is a gap that the council cannot be expected to fill.

"I asked him to have his officials consider possible alternatives to deliver this vital project for our city.

"I am therefore pleased that he agreed to consider options and that his officials from the Environment Agency will offer to meet Council regarding this."

First Derry

He concluded: "I also spelled out the situation which is facing the congregation of First Derry Presbyterian Church.

"They have already had to find a significant pot of money to maintain the building in a decent state.

"They are obviously worried that they will be exposed to a further unexpected cost and it is in the interests of the whole city that this key part out our heritage is given the necessary assistance to proceed.

"The Minister appeared confident that a better outcome might be found."

"I suggested to the Minister that he review the planned allocations for the scheme against the costs of individual tenders as they arrive. Therefore, any savings made through lower tender bids can be allocated to theimportant projects currently facing a cut."