Dr Chris Boomer Planning Manager for Mid Ulster

The evolution of “Home Place” In 2013 Magherafelt DC bought former police Barracks to “de-militarise” and regenerate Bellaghy. In August 2013 Seamus Heagney died who was rooted in this part of south Derry and who was inspired by its people and landscapes In response to local people who wanted to celebrate Seamus Heaney and in co- operation with Marie Heaney and the family the idea for HomePlace: “ a home for inspiration, echoing the life literature and legacy of Seamus Heaney” was born

Rationale for selecting the site Originally the former manor house, ideal for a landmark building. Gateway entrance to the village Located on the Castledawson approach

Local Community and Heaney family helped set objectives for home place: To provide a timely appropriate arts and literacy product offering and tribute at local , national and international level to Seamus Heaney To enhance the artistic and cultural identity and heritage of the new Mid Ulster Council area To act as a catalyst to regeneration and overcome the economic conditions that had been prevalent in the area To create a “shared space” that helps further stimulate social cohesion across the area. “It is not a museum or a memorial but a centre which will be a catalyst for creativity, literary tourism, community cohesion, economic development and regeneration”

Designing a catalyst for Artistic Creativity, education community development, tourism and regeneration Designed to Retain stone walls and characteristics of original manor house Re-uses metal cladding of the former police station avoids over engineering and car parking dominating the centre provides a viewing platform of the countryside Create open space for interaction Plays creatively with levels on the site to create separate spaces inside and out.

Resulting in a centre to be proud of:

That provides a gateway to the village and fits with in with local heritage

That utilises past materials and recognises the former manor house and police station

That provides a space for learning and performance

Provides a gateway for tourists

And a place for the local community to relax