Strategic Growth Partnership meets for quarterly update
23 October 2026
Local partners gathered in the Guildhall today for the quarterly meeting of the Strategic Growth Partnership (SGP) to discuss progress in delivering the long-term vision set out in the City and District's Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan.
Local partners gathered in the Guildhall today for the quarterly meeting of the Strategic Growth Partnership (SGP) to discuss progress in delivering the long-term vision set out in the City and District's Inclusive Strategic Growth Plan.
Co-chaired by the Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, the meeting brought together key stakeholders to hear updates on a range of significant initiatives that continue to support economic growth, improved wellbeing and sustainable development across the City and District.
Members received presentations on a number of strategically important projects and programmes, including an update on plans for the continued expansion of Ulster University, by Prof. Paul Seawright, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, as well as progress on the delivery of the City Deal programme, work to support health and wellbeing, and the impact of the North West Community Network's Ideas Fund. Discussions also focused on the future implementation and review of the Strategic Growth Plan, which provides the framework for community planning activity across the district.
A key item on the agenda was the presentation of the latest economic outlook for Derry and Strabane by Dr Myles Patton, Principal Economist at the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre. The report highlighted a number of encouraging indicators, including growth in payrolled employment, a significant reduction in claimant counts and positive forecasts for future job creation. The findings also pointed to strong levels of business dynamism, with Derry and Strabane recording the highest business birth rate in Northern Ireland.
Partnership members also noted the continued progress being made through major strategic investments including City Deal projects and wider regeneration initiatives, recognising their importance in creating opportunities, attracting investment and improving quality of life for local communities.
Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, welcomed the positive discussions that took place during the meeting, saying: "Today's meeting demonstrated the strength of partnership working across our district and the collective commitment that exists to improving outcomes for local people. The Strategic Growth Partnership continues to play a vital role in bringing organisations together around a shared vision for the future of Derry and Strabane.
"It was particularly encouraging to hear the positive economic outlook for our area, with forecasts pointing towards continued jobs growth, increased economic activity and expanding opportunities in a range of key sectors. These achievements do not happen in isolation and are the result of sustained collaboration between our community planning partners, businesses, educational institutions, community organisations and government agencies.
"While challenges remain, today's discussions highlighted the significant progress being made through major initiatives. Together, these investments are helping to create a stronger, more inclusive and prosperous future for everyone who lives, works and invests in our district.
"I would like to thank all partners and stakeholders for their continued engagement and commitment to the community planning process, which remains central to shaping positive growth, improving outcomes and ensuring that the voices of our communities continue to influence future development."
Find the full reports for today’s meeting at growderrystrabane.com