Ebrington Square

Under the Good Friday Agreement (1998) Ebrington was gifted to the NI Executive and the site is now owned by the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (OFMDFM). Ilex urc was established in July 2003 to redevelop Ebrington physically, socially and economically, and a second former army base, Fort George (owned by the Department for Social Development). Ebrington is widely acknowledged as a key asset in the city's regeneration and offers a superb opportunity to balance the historic walled city with the intact ramparts, mature trees and handsome Victorian architecture on site. Located on the east bank of the River Foyle, Ebrington has spectacular views across the river to the Walled City and its historic buildings are a familar landmark. Measuring some 26 acres, 19 buildings remain on site, 14 of which have been listed. Originally known as 'Stronge's Orchard' the site was first used for military purposes during the Siege of Derry (1689) when King James II soldiers bombarded the walled city. The founding stone of the army base was laid by Viscount Ebrington in 1839 and the base was subsequently opened in 1841 as a Star Fort, now a Scheduled Monument (2003). The centre piece of the Star Fort is the former Parade Ground which overlooks the River Foyle and is flanked on 3 sides by cream coloured buildings most of which date from the 1840s. The former Parade Ground has been transformed into a state-of-the-art multi purpose venue now known as Ebrington Square. Of particular note are the Clock Tower (original soldiers' quarters) and the military hospital, both of which overlook Ebrington Square. Ebrington is being regenerated as a mixed use site for office, retail, commercial, tourist and residential purposes. An arts and culture hub is also envisaged within the Star Fort which includes Ebrington Square and several listed buildings.