Faughan Valley to be sold

LAND at the former Faughan Valley High School in Londonderry will be sold on the open market, according to the Education Minister Caitríona Ruane.

The Minister stated that the Western Education and Library Board (WELB) has advised of its intention to dispose of the site on the open market. Discussions with Derry City Council over the acquisition of the land are still ongoing.

Last month the Sentinel reported that WELB was still considering a request by Derry City Council to transfer the Drumahoe Playing fields to the local authority for a nominal fee.

DUP Alderman Drew Thompson originally proposed the transfer of the vacant land to the local authority over a year ago. And residents and community leaders in Drumahoe have suggested the dormant site be put back into sporting use.

Due to the long stalemate local YMCA chief William Lamrock called on the Londonderry urban regeneration company ILEX to get involved.

But things came to a head last week when Sinn Fin MLA Raymond McCartney suggested the land could be used to build a Meanscoil (Irish Language Secondary School).

According to the Minister WELB have indicated the site will be put up for sale.

She stated: "The former Faughan Valley School site remains in the ownership of the WELB. It is therefore a matter for that Board to determine its future use or disposal.

"The WELB has advised that there has been no Public Sector or educational interest expressed in the main college site and the WELB therefore intends to dispose of it on the open market. Discussions regarding Derry City Council's interest in acquiring the former school's playing fields are on-going.

"However, on foot of your question I have today written to Conradh naGaelige (CnaG) to suggest that they write directly to the WELB to lodge an interest in the site if considered an appropriate location for the development of a new Meanscoil."

The Minister also stated that WELB does not have the authority to gift land to any organisation without the approval of the Department of Education (DE).

"The former Faughan Valley School is in the ownership of the Western Education and Library Board (WELB). Under Article 106(5) of the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986 the WELB cannot dispose of any land or premises gratuitously unless the approval of the Department is obtained.

"The arrangements for the disposal of surplus land are detailed in guidance issued by the Department of Finance and Personnel's Land and Property Services. In accordance with the guidance Department's are required to ensure that best value is obtained."

Mr Lamrock again said yesterday that the land was needed for community and sports provision, adding: "This is an opportunity that should not be missed."

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