Planning approval has been granted for the £4.5million OASIS (Omagh Accessible Shared Inclusive Space) project that will transform Omagh town centre. The European Unions Peace 111 funded project will open up a part of Omagh that was previously segregated and inaccessible. An interlinked walk and cycle trail will revitalise a large neutral space in to a cultural and social focal point within the town centre.
The project includes the construction of a new pedestrian bridge linked from Drumragh Avenue car park to Old Market Place, a riverside walk, exercise areas, electronic information hub, artwork panels, games tables and fishing stands. It will also include the development of covered performance and stage area and a neutral civic space able to accommodate markets, concerts and general recreational activities partially occupying lands at Drumragh Avenue car park.
Environment Minister Alex Attwood says: “This project will make a real difference to the lives of people in Omagh and the surrounding areas. It will revitalise the town centre – opening it up to create a vibrant cultural and social hub that will attract local artists and visitors.”
He adds: “This coupled with my announcement of planning permission before Christmas for the former Scotts Mill factory site will be a positive boost for Omagh. Both projects will enhance the environment and aid the economy by providing increased opportunities that will be welcomed by shoppers, artists, traders and visitors.”