Belfast City Council has appealed to businesses in the City to help traders affected by last weekend’s devastating fire at North Street Arcade – and voiced its own continued support to get them back in business.

Following a meeting yesterday afternoon between traders and Councillor Chris McGimpsey, Chairman of the Council’s Economic Development Sub-Committee, it was agreed that the first step was to see what was needed to get businesses up and running as quickly as possible.

The Council therefore has embarked on an initial audit of both the immediate and long-term needs of the retailers and other businesses whose premises were destroyed or damaged in the fire.

Councillor McGimpsey said: “North Street Arcade has been a focal point for Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter for many years, and a strong sense of identity and community has emerged in the area as a result of a unique mix of the arts and business.

"This disaster has resulted in a number of businesses losing their entire livelihood virtually overnight. Working within the constraints of a local authority, Belfast City Council is determined to act as a catalyst for these people during this traumatic time, and we would appeal to anyone who feels they can help to come forward.”

The Council is also continuing to facilitate ongoing meetings with relevant stakeholders, including local businesses and statutory and non-statutory agencies.

(MB)