26/11/2019

Council Seeks Views On Sundays In Belfast City Centre

Members of the public are being encouraged to submit their views on how to attract new visitors into Belfast city centre on Sundays.

A consultation, launched by Belfast City Council, aims to establish new ways of boosting footfall in and around the city centre and maximise profits from cruise ships docking in the city and tourists staying in hotels.

It follows significant council investments to continue the regeneration of the city centre, with attention given to improving accessibility into and around the city, increasing the provision of cultural and leisure facilities, creating family spaces, enhancing the retail offering, supporting residential areas and creating a more positive experience for tourists.

Anyone with a view on how to get the most out of the area, particularly during the spring and summer months, is urged to reply to the consultation by Friday 17 January 2020.

According to Belfast City Council, the way in which people are using the city centre has changed significantly over recent years.

Tourists, in particular, make a significant contribution to the local economy. Last year, 28 ships docked in Belfast on a Sunday, carrying 46,000 passengers and crew, while hotel occupancy on Saturday evenings in Belfast averaged at around 85%.

This has created a demand for things to do and see on a Sunday – and also presents opportunities to support the local economy and create jobs.

At present, Sunday trading hours for retailers across Northern Ireland, including in Belfast City Centre, remain limited to between 1pm and 6pm.

The results of the consultation will inform a 'Sundays in the City' programme to enhance the area and drive footfall and spending with local retail, hospitality, leisure and cultural providers.

It's hoped that such actions will revitalise and strengthen the city centre's economic and social regeneration.

Click here for more information and to submit a response.



(JG/CM)

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