Construction work on the long-awaited transformation of Meenan Square in Derry~Londonderry is underway, marked by a ceremonial groundbreaking attended by First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.
The high-profile visit signalled the next major milestone in the delivery of the multi-million-pound regeneration project, which will see the creation of a vibrant mixed-use development at the heart of the Bogside. The project is being delivered through The Executive Office’s Urban Villages Initiative in partnership with Apex Housing Association and Meenan Square Developments Ltd.
Connolly & Fee was recently appointed to deliver the build, which will provide much-needed new homes, modern community facilities, commercial opportunities and a revitalised shared public space for the local community.
Speaking at the groundbreaking, First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA, said:
“It is fantastic to see work underway at Meenan Square, marking another important step forward for Derry and the North West. This community is rich in ambition, talent and resilience, and deserves investment that creates opportunity and supports growth.
“Supported by our Urban Villages Initiative, the £13million investment at Meenan Square is about creating opportunity, supporting local families and businesses, and delivering a vibrant shared space where people can come together, thrive and build a better future for generations to come.”
Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly MLA, added:
“Breaking ground at Meenan Square marks a significant milestone for the wider North West. Through the Urban Villages Initiative, we will create a vibrant, shared space that will deliver new opportunities for local people.
“Together with other major Urban Villages investments in the city, including the New Gate Arts & Culture Centre and Cathedral Youth Club projects, this reflects our ongoing commitment to regeneration, good relations and building stronger, more connected communities.”
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said:
“I am pleased to support this project that reflects the importance of working with local communities to deliver spaces that meet local needs. The enhanced Meenan Square will provide a lasting community asset and a more attractive environment for everyone who uses the area.”
Liam Hannaway, Chairperson of Apex Housing Association, said:
“This is a hugely significant and exciting milestone for a project shaped by years of engagement, collaboration and determination. The regeneration of Meenan Square is about so much more than bricks and mortar, it is about creating a place where people can live, connect and thrive. We are proud to be playing a key role in delivering new homes and community infrastructure that will serve local families for generations to come.”
Charles Lamberton, Chairperson of Meenan Square Developments Ltd, said:
“It is fantastic to see work officially begin on the site. Meenan Square has always been an important focal point for the Bogside, and this project will restore that role by bringing new energy, activity and opportunity back into the area. We look forward to seeing the site transformed into a modern, inclusive space that the whole community can take pride in.”
Caroline Hendron, Business Development Manager at Connolly & Fee Limited, the contractors for the project, added:
“We are proud to have been appointed to deliver this landmark development. We recognised from the outset that Meenan Square is far more than a construction project – it is a vital community asset with a long and important history. We have registered the site with the Considerate Constructors Scheme and are committed to high standards, strong community engagement and delivering real social value throughout the build.”
The commencement of construction followed the granting of full planning approval by Derry City and Strabane District Council in November 2025, a key milestone that paved the way for work to begin on the regeneration of the site.
With work now underway, the Meenan Square transformation enters an exciting new phase, moving from vision to reality and bringing renewed optimism for the future of this historic and much-loved area.