Magee expansion will continue to be prioritised within my budget: Archibald

Date published: 14 January 2026

Speaking at a meeting with the Magee Taskforce, Minister Archibald said: 

“At long last the North West is beginning to realise its huge economic potential, and the expansion of the Magee Campus is underpinning this positive change.

“Since the Executive was restored in 2024 my Department has prioritised investment in Magee and student numbers have increased by 22% since then to over 6,500.

“We have also secured all the land needed to meet the target of 10,000 students. This is significant progress and it has been achieved by the community coming together in the Taskforce under a common plan.”

The Minister added: 

“We must now build on the momentum we have created. I will continue to prioritise Magee within my budget, despite the significant financial pressures we face. I will also establish an expert working group to support the delivery of student accommodation.”

The Minister paid tribute to Taskforce Chair, Stephen Kelly, and Vice Chair, Nicola Skelly, as well as Ulster University, Derry City and Strabane District Council, and all Taskforce members for their continued commitment, collaboration, and leadership.   

She added: 

“Transformative change of this scale is a collective effort. I remain fully committed to working with all our partners, and my Executive colleagues to overcome the challenges and to unlock the full economic potential of the North West.”

Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, Professor Paul Bartholomew said: 

“This year we have marked major milestones: we have welcomed more students than ever before to Derry~Londonderry; graduated the first cohort of medical doctors from our School of Medicine; welcomed Computing students into the first phase of Timber Quay, which marks our expansion to the river front; and progressed plans for several capital projects including the Shared Island Funded Student and Teaching Centre.

“Progress has been significant and for that I thank sincerely my colleagues in the University, the Minister, DfE Officials and the Taskforce. There is more to be unlocked, and we remain committed to working with our partners for the expansion of this vibrant campus which will stimulate further economic, social, cultural and civic growth in the North West.”

Stephen Kelly added: 

"When we presented our Action Plan a year ago, we stressed that the time for delivery was now. We are pleased that all parties have accepted that challenge head on and our plan is being delivered on time and in some areas ahead of target.

“However, we now arrive at the most critical moment of this project. A draft 3-year revenue and 4-year capital budget has been published for consultation. Once agreed this budget will operate within the remaining period of this Assembly mandate and into the next. Ensuring that our Action Plan receives the funding demanded is mission critical to ensure that this Programme for Government commitment is met."