Minister Margaret Ritchie has officially opened the Fort George foot and cycle path (400 metres long and 4 metres wide) and walkers and cyclists can now continue their journey past Sainsburys, through Fort George leading to Bay Park.
Launching the path Minister Ritchie said: “I am pleased to open this extension to the existing riverside walkway which I know is already one of the best used and most attractive amenities in Derry city centre. The continuation of this attractive, people-friendly pathway will encourage activity throughout the day and evening for walkers and cyclists of all ages.
Creating greater access to the river and realising the obvious potential of the riverfront is a priority as we transform Fort George from an underused site into an important new asset for the city and its people. We can now begin to visualise just what can be achieved here. Derry is a special place and as Minister I want to help develop fully its wonderful natural amenities”.
Brenda Fraser, Ilex’s Director of Development said: “The Fort George foot and cycle path is a valuable extension to the existing riverside route and means that everyone - for the first time in living memory - can access the site for leisure. Fort George boasts the only World War II jetty in Northern Ireland and work is under way to ensure that in the near future we will be able to give even greater access on to the river by opening up the jetty to the public”.
Welcoming the riverside path on behalf of the city, Mayor Gerard Diver said: “Good quality leisure space is a necessity in our busy lives and the provision of additional riverside access for walkers and cyclists will greatly enhance the lives of the local community. The Council remains committed to working in partnership with Ilex to build on the economic, social and cultural identity of the area by promoting opportunities for social interaction”.
Sustrans’ Sustainable Transport Officer, Ross McGill, said: “The Fort George path is an important link in the city’s foot and cycle network and confirms Sustrans, Ilex and Derry City Council’s commitment to develop safe and attractive walking and cycling routes for both leisure and utility. The opening of the path means walkers and cyclists now have a virtually traffic-free route from bridge to bridge on the west bank of the river”.
Roads Service is once again operating the annual Christmas Park ‘n’ Ride system on Fort George, opening times as follows:
| Saturday, Dec 13th & Sunday |
Dec 14th noon until 6pm |
| Dec 15th – 19th inclusive |
Noon until 8pm |
| Saturday, Dec 20th & Sunday |
Dec 21st noon until 6pm |
| Monday, Dec 22nd & Tuesday |
Dec 23rd noon until 8pm |
| Christmas Eve |
Noon until 6pm |