15th June 1998

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A team of top researchers from the United States has arrived at Magee College this week to begin a research project on the regeneration of the city's Waterside area.

In particular the team want to look at how the city can be said to be the victim of a cycle of economic underachievement despite its highly skilled and educated workforce.

The researchers, from the University of Massachusetts have teamed up with Magee College's Faculty of Business and Management to address the specific planning issues facing the North-west, and to develop strategies to drive the city's progress in the new Millennium.

"It's a great opportunity for us to share our knowledge with the people of Derry," said researcher Brigid Ryan, "as well as to promote international learning and offer a global perspective on the challenges and opportunities the city faces."

During their ten-week stay in the city the students, from the University of Massachusetts' Amherst campus, will help Derry's Town Centre Management draw up the Waterside regeneration action plan.

Town Centre Manager Cliodha Mulhern said: "We are delighted to have this opportunity to collaborate with the University and its students."

Researcher Jennifer Phelan added: "Producing the Waterside action plan will take a lot of hard work and research, and we have a full schedule of meetings and presentations with community groups and opinion formers, but it's great to be here in your lovely city - everyone's been so friendly and helpful."

The transatlantic project was arranged by Tony Johnston of Magee College's School of Commerce and International Business.

"The results of this research will be invaluable to the University local communities, statutory and voluntary bodies, and the city as a whole," he said.

The Waterside action plan will be ready by 6 August.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk