The economic development agency for Northern Ireland will establish its new north west regional office at Ebrington Plaza in Londonderry, moving from its current base at Timber Quay where it has operated since 2006. According to BBC News, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald announced the relocation as part of efforts to strengthen the agency's regional presence and improve accessibility to businesses across the north west.
Invest NI, which was established in 2002, has been seeking alternative premises following Ulster University's acquisition of its existing building. The agency has agreed a 10-year lease and expects to move into the new location in early 2027. According to the Department for the Economy, the office will occupy 299 square metres and feature a reception area, four meeting rooms, a 22-seat boardroom and workspace for 20 Invest NI staff members.
Dr Archibald expressed her intention to use the new premises as a base for meeting local businesses and inward investors, emphasising that the relocation would strengthen the agency's capacity to serve the region. The Waterside location at Ebrington Plaza positions Invest NI close to some of its most significant regional clients while providing access to the wider city.
Why has the relocation been controversial?
Invest NI has faced sustained criticism over the distribution of inward investment across Northern Ireland. An independent review led by Sir Michael Lyons in 2023 identified "profound divisions" at the top of the organisation that were damaging its effectiveness. In 2025, Strabane business leader Kieran Kennedy resigned from Invest NI's board after alleging discrimination against the north west.
Performance data presented to Derry City and Strabane District Council in July 2026 revealed significant regional disparities. Between 2021–22 and 2025–26, Belfast accounted for 8,733 new jobs—almost half of the 17,932 jobs created across Northern Ireland—while Derry City and Strabane recorded only 1,176 new jobs during the same period. However, Invest NI reported that in 2025–26, its support helped secure £41 million in business investment in Derry City and Strabane, with nearly £6 million in assistance offered and 274 jobs expected to be created.
What changes is Invest NI making?
Aeidin McCarter, appointed as Invest NI's head of regional business for the north west in May, acknowledged that "mistakes have been made" in the past but stated that regional balance is now "front and centre" for the organisation. The new office will provide a modern and welcoming environment for businesses, entrepreneurs, partner organisations and potential investors seeking to develop opportunities in the region.
Invest NI chief executive Kieran Donoghue emphasised that stimulating further economic development in the north west and across Northern Ireland remains a key priority for the agency. Last year, Invest NI supported 263 projects in the north west, which are expected to result in more than £80 million of investment and create more than 400 new jobs. The new location will enable the agency to strengthen its engagement with regional stakeholders and demonstrate commitment to balanced economic development.
What is the next step?
The premises will now enter the fit-out phase, with Invest NI targeting an early 2027 move-in date. McCarter confirmed that once the office becomes operational, it will serve as a hub for connecting with partners and exploring investment opportunities within the region. The relocation represents a tangible commitment to addressing long-standing concerns about regional investment disparities and improving the agency's capacity to support north west businesses.
