A Donegal Deputy has raised concerns relating to delays in the Riverine Park Project.
The cross-border project is a proposed 30-acre park planned for Lifford and Strabane with a pedestrian and cycle bridge over the River Foyle connecting the two towns.
It’s been almost two years since the funding was ring-fenced and it must be spent by December this year.
Sinn Fein Deputy Pearse Doherty has expressed his concerns at the ongoing delays and the impact of the rising construction costs on the funding.
“I am becoming increasingly concerned about the future of the Riverine Park Project. There is now a real danger that the €8.96 million of EU Peace Funding and a further €2.8 million in funding to address rising construction costs being squandered due to planning delays.
“The delay is with An Bord Pleanála where there is a significant backlog of cases and we must see movement made quickly now if we are to save the project. A decision had been expected in October.
“I have asked for Donegal County Council to urgently facilitate a meeting with Sinn Féin representatives in both Donegal and Tyrone to address concerns. I have also informed An Bord Pleanála of the importance of a decision being prioritised.
“This cross-border project was to be a huge boost to the Lifford and Strabane area. It was also to represent the strong working partnership between Donegal County Council and Derry and Strabane District Council. Losing it now would be unthinkable,” said Mr Doherty.
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