Derry Bids For Top Architectural Prize

A building in Londonderry that literally rose form the ashes has become the first in Northern Ireland to be shortlisted for the prestigious Stirling Prize.

Culturlann Ui Chanain cost £4m and has already been awarded prizes for its architecture.


It opened in September 2010 as an Irish language centre teaching traditional music, dance and language.

The building on Great James Street was built on the site of a burnt-out bakery.

It was designed by Dublin-based architects O'Donnell and Tuomey and is in one of the city's most historic areas.

The building is one of six UK finalists on the Royal Institute of British Architects' shortlist.

The final result will be revealed in October and the winning architect will get a prize of £20,000.

(BMcC)