'Considerable historical, cultural and community value': Co Down conservation specialist appointed to restore four Northern Ireland war memorials
Irish Stone has secured a contract to deliver a three-month restoration programme across four historic sites in Londonderry city centre, Castlederg, Sion Mills and Strabane
Northern Ireland conservation specialist Irish Stone has been appointed by Derry City and Strabane District Council to restore four historic war memorials across the district.
The contract covers memorials at The Diamond in Londonderry city centre, Castlederg, Sion Mills and Strabane, with works due to begin on Monday (August 10) and expected to take around three months.
The project is being supported through the PEACE Plus Programme, delivered by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and represents an investment in the conservation of the district’s built heritage.
Based in Hillsborough, Irish Stone will carry out the specialist conservation works alongside Consarc Conservation Architects, which has been appointed to provide conservation architecture services.
The programme will include specialist stone repointing, conservation of bronze elements, cleaning, painting, landscaping improvements and measures to improve accessibility at the four sites.
The appointment comes as the council continues to invest in the protection and enhancement of historic assets across the district.
Karen Phillips, director of environment and regeneration at Derry City and Strabane District Council, said: "We are delighted to appoint Irish Stone to deliver this important restoration and maintenance project across four significant war memorial sites within our district, with the support and expertise of Consarc Conservation Architects.
"These memorials hold considerable historical, cultural and community value and this investment will ensure they are carefully conserved and enhanced for future generations.
"The project is about much more than the restoration of physical structures. Through the accompanying outreach programme, we are bringing together schools, community organisations and local groups from across the district to explore our shared heritage and deepen understanding of the histories and experiences that have shaped our communities.
"Supported through the PEACE Plus Programme, the initiative reflects our commitment to promoting peace and reconciliation, encouraging mutual respect and creating welcoming shared spaces where everyone feels included.
"The works planned for The Diamond will sit alongside the wider City Deal public realm and lighting improvements in the city centre, delivering additional benefits for residents, businesses and visitors while enhancing the setting of this important landmark.
"We look forward to seeing the restoration works progress over the coming months and to working with our partners and local communities to maximise the positive impact of this significant project."