Council to pursue full time Broighter display

The Borough’s newest councillor, DUP man Edgar Scott, has asked the council to go about trying to set up a permanent Broighter gold display in the town following the recent successful return of the historical artefacts to the Borough where they were found over a century ago.

The collection of golden artefacts, found in a field in the townland of Broighter by two local farmhands, were recently returned to the Limavady Borough for a display at the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre which attracted huge numbers.

Councillor Scott, who has been co-opted to replace his DUP colleague George Robinson at Limavady Borough Council, made the suggestion following a positive response from the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to a query at Stormont from Mr Robinson back in November. George Robinson asked Carál Ní Chuilín whether she would “give consideration” to the idea. Ms Ní Chuilín replied: “I certainly will. I am keen to have discussions with the museums and the people who are the curators at the minute. I believe passionately that it should come back to where it was found and where it belongs. There have not been many opportunities presented to that area over the decades, particularly around tourism, so the Broighter gold hoard is one opportunity that we cannot afford not to fight for.”

Now, councillor Scott has brought the following motion for consideration: “That this Council, in light of the recent support expressed by the DCAL Minister in Stormont, pursues the joint development of a permanent display about the Broighter Hoard, including replica pieces, in conjunction with DCAL as an additional tourist product which Limavady Borough Council can advertise to attract an increased number of visitors.”

East Londonderry MLA George Robinson, meanwhile, has reiterated his support for the idea, saying: “I was delighted to learn that our new DUP Councillor, Edgar Scott, has promoted the idea of a permanent display of the Broighter Gold and its story in Limavady.” He continued: “In late November the DCAL Minister gave me a very positive response when I questioned her regarding the establishment of permanent display and Councillor Scott has followed the idea through to council. All the various theories regarding the gold can be mentioned so visitors can make their own decision as to the back story of the hoard.

“Councillor Scott has mentioned a number of ways in which such an exhibition could be included in exiting programmes; for example the myths and legends tour; which could benefit the local tourist numbers and the certainly our local shops and businesses.

“Any proposals must ensure there is a direct benefit for our local businesses to ensure a positive cost benefit relationship. Our area has to be at the centre of all business or tourist development proposals being put forward. I will of course be happy to lend whatever support is necessary to bring this very worthwhile project to fruition.”