In July 2020, the ICLRD commenced a new contract to support both Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council in the various out-workings of the North West City Region (NWCR) initiative. This includes facilitation of the North West Strategic Growth Partnership, a unique partnership established in 2016 through the North South Ministerial Council that brings together senior Government officials from all Government departments in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland to deliver on the strategic priorities aimed at bringing real and positive change for the NWCR. The current work programme is strongly informed and influenced by the EU Green Deal, Brexit, the climate emergency and the current public health emergency, COVID-19.