UU Expansion Granted

Planning permission has been granted for an extension to the University of Ulster at its Magee campus.

Covering a floor space of 3,762m sq, the extension will create teaching facilities and a large tiered lecture theatre, two smaller lecture theatres, up to 20 classrooms and a cafe.

Environment Minister Mark H Durkan, who announced the planning approval, said: "This strategically important investment by the University of Ulster on the Magee Campus will be a boost for the local economy. It will create construction jobs in the short term and enhance the academic offering in the long term. This will contribute positively to the economic, social and cultural vitality of Derry and the surrounding area. This application was turned around in just over three months which demonstrates that changes to planning are ensuring a fast, fair and fit for purpose system."

DOE Planning consulted Derry City Council on 1 July 2014 who raised no objections to the proposal.

(IT/MH)