Belfast Primark fire update: Nearby businesses to re-open with new walkway

  • Businesses forced to close by the Primark fire in the historic Bank Buildings this year will re-open in time for Christmas shopping thanks to a new walkway.

    When Belfast's historic Bank Buildings burned down back in August, the Primark store occupying it wasn't the only casualty. Several nearby businesses were forced to suspend operations as it wouldn't be safe to allow pedestrians near the site of the fire, and one of the main road routes through the city centre was closed off. Even those in the general area that remained open have noticed decreased footfall, an unexpected blow as we approached the Christmas shopping season.

    The city responded to the problem with an innovative solution, planning a new walkway made out of shipping containers to reconnect Royal Avenue to Donegall Place while keeping pedestrians safe in the unlikely event that the Bank Buildings collapse during the ongoing salvage and reconstruction project. This new walkway will allow eight shops to re-open, but those closest to the burned-out building will have to remain closed until work on it resumes in Spring.

    BBC News NI reports that the walkway is due to be opened very soon, with Belfast Lord Mayor Deirdre Hargey promising to "continue to keep the pressure on the contractor" to ensure that "we can quicken up the pace to have the work completed." Businesses in the area have reportedly already seen increased footfall throughout November thanks to events and stalls being erected in the closed-off road.

    Source:  BBC News NI

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    Brendan is a Sync NI writer with a special interest in the gaming sector, programming, emerging technology, and physics. To connect with Brendan, feel free to send him an email or follow him on Twitter.

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