The temporary pedestrianisation of a Belfast street is to be extended for six months, it was confirmed yesterday.
Union Street, off Little Donegal Street, is part of a Department for Infrastructure trial aimed to increasing footfall in the area which has a developing nightlife scene.
SDLP councillor Carl Whyte welcomed the news.
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He said: “Since Union Street was pedestrianised by the SDLP’s Nichola Mallon it has given a boost to both local businesses and customers alike, providing a new space for them to consume products purchased nearby or to simply sit and relax while going about their day.
“This a bustling and thriving part of our city centre and this pedestrianisation alongside the other improvements in terms of lighting and street furniture has really added to the experience of everyone visiting this area. Keeping this area free of vehicles also contributes to public safety, with large numbers of people gathering and visiting hospitality businesses in the vicinity, particularly at weekends.
“I am glad the success of the initial scheme has been recognised and hope to see these benefits retained permanently at the end of the year. I also welcome confirmation that a proposal for the pedestrianisation of Hill Street will be finalised shortly and would like to see other parts of our city centre considered for this scheme. Spaces like this have proved hugely successful in major cities across the world and Belfast can benefit from adopting that model.”
A Dept spokesperson said: “Union Street is currently closed to vehicular access under an Experimental Traffic Control Scheme with the exception of access for permit holders, loading and unloading between certain hours, and cycles.
"It is intended that this scheme will be extended for a further 6 months from the 11th June 2022. At the end of this further 6 months a decision will be made as to whether the scheme will be made permanent.”
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