A new £12million museum in Derry's Ebrington Square has moved forward to the detailed design stage, it has been revealed.
The new museum aims to showcase the historic maritime importance, including its role as a vital naval base during the Second World War.
The project on the Ebrington Square site, which is owned by the NI Executive,initially completed a feasibility study in 2010.
Last week, the Executive Office (TEO) committed a further £3 million for the museum.
As well as a museum, the flagship project is set to include a archive centre with galleries, archival reading rooms, dedicated learning spaces, a café, shop and other facilities for visitors.
The facilities will primarily showcase the Derry and Strabane District Council's important maritime collection which 'charts the rich and fascinating naval and maritime history of the North West'.
A spokesperson for the local council said: "The council continues to explore all funding opportunities for this key strategic tourism facility, including the opportunities which will be afforded by our City Deal.
"The museum remains a key attraction within the new Tourism Strategy for the City and District and Council will continue to work closely with all our partners in both government and the tourism industry to ensure its successful delivery as soon as the necessary funds are made available."
Sinn Fein's Martina Anderson getting the project its construction stage as soon as possible was the priority.
"This confirmation of funding for a museum is another step towards realising the potential of the Ebrington site," the Foyle MLA said.
"This project will be a game changer in terms of improving the visitor experience for tourists coming to the city and will massively increase footfall and visitor spend at the Ebrington site."
