Several major infrastructure projects delivered in Belfast recently are having a positiveimpact on the city centre,with footfall significantly boosted, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimminstold a delegation of business leaders at an event hosted by Belfast Chamber.
Over 130 people attended the Business Lunch at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, at which Belfast Chamber CEO Clare Guinness asked Minister Kimmins a series of questions about a range of issues that the Chamber has lobbied the Department on.
Minister Kimmins discussed the opening of Grand Central Station andthe completion of the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme as well as the introduction of an hourly Enterprise service to Dublin.
The Minister also set out her vision for the future through the introduction of seven foundations - Climate Change, Cleaner Greener Transport, Adapting to Climate, Better Roads, Water and Wastewater, Plan to Improve, and including people – as well as outlining the next steps of Belfast Rapid Transit 2.
Minister Kimmins said:
“I am delighted to be here today to discuss infrastructure matters with Belfast Chamber and share my vision for the future. Over the past year, we have witnessed several major infrastructure enhancements in the city, particularly the opening of Grand Central Station.
“I am pleased to see these developments already benefiting the city, with a notable rise in passenger numbers on the Belfast-Dublin Enterprise service since October 2024, and a subsequent boost in footfall in the city centre.”
During a fireside chat, Clare asked the Minister about several key issues, including the gap between required and available funding for critical infrastructure - such as water - to facilitate housing development. She also queried the flexibility around measures to address ongoing traffic congestion in the city centre, the support provided for Belfast’s nighttime economy, and whether the Department plans to advance pedestrianisation schemes within the city.
Belfast Chamber CEO Clare Guinness commented:
"Advocating for investment in infrastructure to improve our city and regional economyis a key pillar ofBelfast Chamber’s strategy, and we were thrilled to welcome Minister Kimmins to discuss these issues at our Business Lunch.
“With Belfast’s continued growth, it is essential that we invest in modern, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure to support businesses, attract investment, and enhance connectivity. The fact that infrastructurewas not identified as a key priority in the Programme for Government is alarming and must be addressed.
“One of the key challenges we must tackle is investment in water infrastructure to enable development of homes. Anotheris the issue of traffic congestion, which is impacting productivity, accessibility, and quality of life in our city. Businesses and citizens alike need a transport network with adequate capacity, that is reliable and fit for purpose, improved road infrastructure, and enhanced active travel options.
“The Minister’s engagement today was very welcome, and we look forward to continuing to work in partnership with government to ensure Belfast has the infrastructure it needs to thrive now and in the future."
To find out more about the services at Belfast Chamber, visit: www.belfastchamber.com
Read the latest edition, Spring 2025, of Sync NI here completely free of charge.
Subscribe to the Sync NI newsletter for all the latest technology news, jobs and upcoming events in Northern Ireland.
Visit Sync NI online for the latest technology news in Northern Ireland.
