Derry would need to be doing something as with the council amalgamations there are a lot more rate payers now that will be asking why they should be supporting it as it is in reality just as handy for them to go to either of the Belfast airports.
There already is questions being asked as to why the Strabane area rates have risen sharply. Whether or not the airport is the primary culprit is not the point as its high profile will always attract attention.
From Strabane to Derry airport is at least 50 mins upwards depending on traffic whereas BHD is comfortably 90 mins with BFS slightly less.
I personally travel twice a month to various global locations and I have as yet to find Derry flights that will connect in sort of sensible manner.