Ulster American Folk Park included in Mid South West Growth Deal

THE Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh has been included as a key project in the recently announced Mid South West Growth Deal, which aims to deliver substantial economic growth and infrastructure improvements across Northern Ireland.

This growth deal, designed specifically for rural areas, is one of four here and represents a collaborative, multi-million-pound investment package from both the UK government and the Northern Ireland Executive.

Following a period of uncertainty during a pre-budget spending review, the deal was officially confirmed in October with a £1.5 billion funding package for Stormont from the UK government.

The Mid South West Growth Deal alone involves a funding commitment of £252 million to support critical areas, including infrastructure, tourism, digital innovation, and regeneration. The Heads of Terms Agreement for this deal was signed at Cookstown's Burnavon Theatre, a significant milestone celebrated by officials including First Minister Michelle O’Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, and Secretary of State Hilary Benn.

They praised the collective effort and strategic vision driving the growth deals, which aim to create widespread economic opportunity and regional balance across Northern Ireland.

The inclusion of the Ulster American Folk Park highlights its importance as a central tourism asset within this investment plan.

A spokesperson for National Museums NI, the organization overseeing the park, expressed strong support for the Mid South West Growth Deal, emphasizing its transformative potential for the region. The deal's focus on tourism and infrastructure projects is expected to bring substantial benefits to Omagh and surrounding areas, positioning the Folk Park as a cultural and economic anchor in the region’s development plan.