Work on new Civic centre on target

At a recent briefing, councillors heard one of the electrical sub contractors working on the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre had gone into administration, but that a Limavady-based firm had been appointed in its place.

"In general terms, progress on site has advanced safely and steadily," Sarah Villiers of Consarc told councillors.

A Limavady Borough Council spokesperson added: "As for the contractor that went into administration, this has not affected the opening date as the work was very well on when this happened so the centre should still open when planned. Also, regarding cost, council will have no idea whether this will be affected until the new contractor takes over."

While the bad weather wasn't amenable for outside work, a significant amount of interior work had been completed including installation of underfloor heating and painting of walls. Much of the scaffolding is gone and some outside walls have been painted white, said Ms Villiers.

Mayor, Sinn Fein Colr. Cathal O'hOisin said there was great excitement surrounding the massive structure "that it may breathe heart in the part of the town that's like a ghost town by night. I wish it well."

SDLP Colr. Gerry Mullan said he was delighted with the progress and agreed it would lift that area of Limavady.

In response to a question from SDLP Colr Michael Carten about the old town clock, Director of Environmental Services Noel Crawford said while some parts were salvaged it couldn't be restored and a new clock would be installed. He stressed it wouldn't be a striking clock as there were concerns about noise.

There were also concerns expressed that pigeons which had caused problems in the the past, might return to the building.

However, Ms Villiers said devices to deter the birds coming back had been sourced.