The long-running saga over a sculpture to Derry’s shirt factory workers has taken a significant step forward.
Plans for a sculpture in honour of the thousands of people who at one time worked in city’s massive shirt factory industry were first put forward in 1992.
However, the project has since been hit by multiple delays and red tape, as well as moving from its original destination in the Waterside to a city centre location beside the Guildhall.
Now, it seems that the plans for the sculpture could finally come to fruition.
A planning application for the artwork has been lodged with Derry City and Strabane District Council.
It was the council itself which lodged the application as it is the local authority which is managing the project.
The sculpture was designed by renowned Cork artist Louise Walsh.
Ms Walsh was commissioned by the Department for Social Development to take the public art project forward in 2006 and worked together with local women on developing it.
However, the project has been continually delayed as a result of various issues.
The lodgement of the planning application for the sculpture has been welcomed by SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan.
“I hope that a positive outcome can be arrived at quickly,” he said.
“This project, which celebrates the role of Derry's factory girls as the backbone of our community, has been plagued with false starts and delays.
“I am glad to see it moving forward.”
At one stage, Derry would have been at the heart of the world’s shirt factory industry.
The city’s landscape was dominated by a large number of factories, many of which are now demolished.
Some of the factories are still standing but their days of producing shirts and other garments are long gone.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 07825 711978. Or you can email john.gill@derrynews.net at any time.