Mayor says acquisition of Timberquay is significant milestone in university expansion plans
28 February 2025
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr has welcomed news that the Department for the Economy and Ulster University have acquired the Timber Quay building on Derry’s Strand Road as part of plans to expand the university.
Mayor Barr said the news marked a significant milestone for the city and district that would bolster the expansion of Ulster University's Derry~Londonderry campus.
She said: “We continue to champion the growth of Magee, recognising its transformative potential to drive economic prosperity, create opportunities for our young people, and enhance our city's vibrant cultural and intellectual landscape. The expansion of the university is not just about bricks and mortar; it's about investing in our future. It's about creating a dynamic learning environment that attracts and retains talent, fosters innovation, and strengthens our position as a hub for education and research. The availability of Timber Quay will enable the university to increase its student numbers and drive forward the ambition to reach 10,000 students by 2032.”
Mayor Barr added that the expansion of the university will further contribute to the catalytic investment that is the cornerstone of the Derry and Strabane City Deal, playing a crucial role in driving economic and social transformation for the region.
“This expansion is not merely about increasing student numbers; it's about creating a hub of innovation, research, and skilled workforce development. Projects like the Cognitive Analytics & Digital Robotics Innovation Centre (CADRIC) and the School of Medicine are designed to attract further investment, stimulate job creation, and create class leading research that will enhance our local economy ultimately securing a prosperous future for Derry and Strabane.”
The Mayor concluded that the acquisition of Timber Quay would also have a positive impact on the wider community including local businesses who will benefit from increased footfall, with the potential to attract further investment, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Department, Ulster University, and all the stakeholders who have played a crucial role in making this happen. This achievement is an example of successful collaboration to achieve a common goal.”