LISTEN:Derry-Londonderry voted Northern Ireland's best place

by Q Radio News

After years of successful regeneration of its historic core, Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland's 'second city' has been crowned the winner of Northern Ireland's Best Places competition today. 

The nationwide competition, organised by the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Northern Ireland, celebrates the places protected, carefully planned or improved by town planners for communities. 

Nearly 4,000 people voted on a shortlisted of 10 places, however Derry-Londonderry emerged as the most popular place with the city's Historic Core, Peace Bridge and Ebrington.

It's chequered, and at times violent, history including the 16th century plantation, the 1920s partition and significantly the Troubles which started in the late 1960s, all played a part in shaping the city's physical and social form. 

Following the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, the city's prospects changed, with planners playing their part in regenerating and reunifying the city. 
 

This lead to the unveiling of the Peace Bridge in 2013, which not only became a pedestrain and cycling link between the Protestant and Nationalist communities on either side of the River Foyle, but a symbol of unification. 

Also linking the town centre to the once run down Ebrington area, the bridge also become a catalyst for regenerating languishing parts of the city and one of the main reasons Northern Ireland's 'second city' was awarded the Best Place to be. 

RTPI President Stephen Wilkinson presented the award to Deputy Mayor John Boyle today. 

He said the award is very much an accolade and that Derry is a very special place: 

(Deputy Mayor, Councillor John Boyle pictured with Ebrington Primary School pupils)

Deputy Mayor, Councillor John Boyle was delighted to accept the award, saying it's a reflection of the hard work from many people throughout the city who have helped with building bridges and creating peace: