A bomb detonated outside the City of Culture office in Derry, police said tonight.
There were no reports of injuries, and police have yet to reveal details on the extent of the damage caused.
It is the second time that the office has been targeted after a pipe bomb planted by dissident republicans in January caused minor damage to the building.
Derry’s winning of the UK City of Culture title has secured cross-community support in Northern Ireland.
The city’s Shipquay Street was closed off tonight by officers investigating the blast which they reported at around 11pm.
SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan condemned those responsible for the explosion. “Those responsible for this bomb have shown complete and utter contempt for the people of Derry," he said.
“Derry is a city with many challenges and with many difficulties. But the City of Culture is one of the opportunities we have.
“It has been strongly supported across our city, not just for the positive ongoing work to make it a memorable and successful year for Derry, but for the legacy that it will create long after 2013 as a springboard for future investment here,” Mr Durkan added.
“This callous and dangerous act flies in the face of the efforts made by so many people to improve life here. Thankfully no-one has been injured but those graces are no thanks to those who are behind this attack.
“They are out to destroy and they don’t care if they injure or kill when they are at it.”
PA