Culmore Landfill

Culmore Landfill Site stopped receiving waste in early 2007. The landfill site presents Derry City Council with a unique opportunity to transform the landfill into a valuable open space.

About the Culmore Site

The site, which was originally tidal, was reclaimed for agriculture use in the late 19th century and early part of the 20th century. Prior to 1971 the sea defences installed for the agricultural reclamation of the tidal marshes had been breached and the land had reverted to mudflats. In 1971, the site was developed by the former Londonderry Development Commission as a controlled municipal landfill. Gradually the site was reclaimed from the tidal mud flats and over three decades later it encompasses more than 40 hectares. Derry City Council would like to regenerate the site with a mix of passive and active recreational areas, developing natural habitats and increasing biodiversity.

Restoration Challenges

The site presents its own challenges and unique solutions and Derry City Council are currently undertaking a restoration programme.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency is responsible for the delivery and regulation of waste activities in Northern Ireland and the site is currently under their regulatory regime.

The site will be restored to European Union guidelines to ensure that the site can be turned into beneficial use for the public.