The new headquarters of a tech company in Derry has been officially opened at a new office block built at a redeveloped former military base in the Waterside area of the city.
The state-of-the-art new, multi-million pound Ebrington Plaza building, built at the former Ebrington Barracks in the Waterside area of the city, was opened by the First and deputy First Ministers Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly on Wednesday.
The first tenant, software consultancy firm Alchemy Technology Services, say the new headquarters marks an "exciting new chapter".
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The new office building is the latest project in the development of the former military site at Ebrington. First occupied by Jacobite Forces during the Siege of Derry and later developed as a 10 acre Star Fort in the 1840s, Ebrington was used during both World Wars and again during the Troubles before it was handed over to the Stormont Executive in 2003.
Notable developments include a new hotel, restaurants, and the iconic Peace Bridge connecting the Waterside and Cityside of Derry.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly said the arrival of Alchemy as the first tenant of the new Ebrington Plaza building marks a "major step" towards transforming Ebrington into a "dynamic business hub".
First Minister Michelle O'Neill, meanwhile, said: "Alchemy continues to play a key role in driving regional balance and I am delighted to be here to mark another milestone in the economic regeneration of Ebrington.
“Since 2018, the company has created high quality jobs, forged strong industry partnerships and become a key contributor to the local economy in the North West. The company has also demonstrated the potential for Ebrington as a hub for innovation and future investment."
The Sinn Fein minister added: “We share Alchemy’s ambition to create world class careers in the North West, an area in need of investment, and are committed to creating regional economic equality and opportunity.”
Her DUP counterpart said: “The Ebrington site can be a game changer for the North West, and the transformation into a dynamic business hub has long been an ambition of the Executive Office.
“Alchemy’s arrival as the first tenant marks a major step towards that vision becoming a reality.
“This iconic site has evolved at pace in recent years and Alchemy’s decision to set up its new headquarters here is a significant development. As a global company bringing high quality opportunities to the North West, Alchemy is demonstrating the economic potential that Ebrington can offer.”
John Harkin, Founder and CEO of Alchemy, added: "The move to our stunning new headquarters at Ebrington Plaza marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the company. We are committed to growing the economy in the North West by investing in talent development, forming partnerships, and continuously innovating. This space enables us to continue that mission and build for the future of our clients, people and community."
Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “Alchemy’s move to Ebrington Plaza is a significant milestone, reinforcing the North West as a thriving hub for financial services, innovation and investment. Ensuring that prosperity is spread across all parts of the north is a key priority for my Department, and this expansion is a testament to Derry’s strong talent base and business potential. By creating high-value jobs and making further investment, Alchemy is making a lasting contribution to the local economy. I look forward to seeing the company continue to grow."
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