Ebrington potential 'could lead to tourist boom'

Tapping into the potential of Ebrington Square in Londonderry could see thousands more tourists visit the city, a music promoter has said.

Kieran Dunlop said a special working group should be set up to attract big names in the world of art and entertainment.

Several music events have been confirmed to take place in the square in the coming months – including electronic, pop, dance and some 1980s nostalgia.

Mr Dunlop, of Music Capital, commented that "short time frames" were preventing bigger acts performing at the venue.

"If you want to book some of the bigger acts you would need at least a year to 18 months in advance notice," he said.

"I mean some of the time frames we have been given could be as little as three to four months and that makes it very difficult."

Mr Dunlop said a working group should be established with a team to work on the site and with promoters.

He added that the group could also work to promote and "positively enhance" the venue.

Ebrington Square has hosted many big concerts over the years creating magical moments for concert goers.

Discussions are now under way to map out a strategy for developing an area that has become known as the Peoples' Square.

The council and The Executive Office are working together on that strategy.

There was controversy last year when the Ebrington Hotel threatened legal action over a concert plan for the Square.

That objection was withdrawn after a public backlash.

Now the council and The Executive Office - which owns the venue - is engaging with a range of promoters and businesses - among others - to agree a way forward.

The general manager of one newly-opened bar and restaurant said the area's potential is huge.

Jason Foody from Stitch and Weave – which is based in one of the old Army blocks on the square – remains optimistic about the future.

He said anything that brings people to the area will benefit the community and the businesses in the square.

"That will attract national and international tourists we would hope as well," he said.

“So, the opening of the square and the more and more events that are on the square that’s hugely important and will make businesses successful here."

Mr Foody said that could see his business hire more staff and could extend opening hours from five days a week to seven.

A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council said: “The council will continue to work with The Executive Office to help deliver successful events in this hugely important strategic event space.”