London Street Project

The Cresco Trust has confirmed funding to transform the disused Cathedral School located in London Street, Londonderry, into an exemplar of best practice in built heritage conservation. Redeveloping the building in a way which contributes to the social and economic renewal of the neighbourhood.

Built in 1891, the B1 listed Victorian schoolhouse was the primary school attached to the nearby St Columb's Church of Ireland Cathedral, located on London Street, Londonderry. It ceased to function as a school in 1995 and has since fallen into disrepair. The project will see the building conserved and opened up to provide a venue for cultural and heritage tourism and will create training, education and employment opportunities.

The programme of capital works, in addition to returning the building to its former glory, will contribute to the regeneration of the area through the creation of almost 800sq/m of office, exhibition and community space which will house local social economy firms and private businesses. The Shoreditch Trust, an award winning London based charitable regeneration agency, has been secured as a tenant and will open a restaurant and training facility, providing opportunities each year for local people interested in pursuing a career in the catering industry.

The Project will also be used to support a programme of outreach and educational activities to enable the local community to become involved in learning about the history and heritage of the building. The 'Tales from School' project, which will run alongside the restoration works, will record the memories and experiences of past pupils, teachers and the local community on a range of themes including school days, lessons and teachers, childhood aspirations and life developments. An exhibition will be produced for permanent display in the completed building to highlight the impact the school has had on the lives of individuals and the wider local community.

Confirmed funders of the London Street Project include:

Clothworkers Foundation
Ulster Garden Villages