New site handed over to Foyle College

At the same time, Ebrington Primary School also officially took over land on which to build a new school.

The transfer of the 32 acre former Clooney base site from the Department of Social Development to Foyle and Londonderry College and Ebrington Primary School was rubber stamped by DSD Minister Margaret Ritchie.

Attending the event in the Waterside Theatre, Education Minister Caitrona Ruane said the move was "very important" for education in the city as it not only freed up land to expand Foyle and Londonderry College but also allowed for the long-awaited expansion of the University of Ulster's Magee campus.

She added that it was "fantastic" to see an extensive former military base becoming an education centre.

"Once completed, the new school facilities will represent a 35.27million investment by the Department of Education," she added.

Minister Ritchie added that the move would not only reap benefits for pupils as it would also give a boost to Londonderry and its people generally.

"Transferring this land from my department will deliver significant regeneration, educational and environmental benefits to the people of this city."

Foyle College's migration to the Watersidewill free up 30 acres at Northland Road which have been earmarked for a large scale Magee campus expansion.

Plans include the provision of twonew research institutes,rapid growth in student numbersand innovative new degree and study courses.

Professor Deirdre Heenan, Dean of Academic Development atMagee, said the handover not only facilitates the creation of a flagship education campus but also moves the development of Magee campus a step further to fruition.

"This is a fantastic day for everyone who has worked for an expansion of higher education in the city and region and an integral part in realising our ambitious plans for growth and expansion in the City."

Building work should begin within two years.