Belfast city centre will see significant traffic diversions and road closures on Tuesday 17 March as the city hosts a series of events for St Patrick's Day.

Authorities are urging participants and visitors to plan their journeys in advance and allow for additional travel time.

Disruptions will begin early in the morning with the SPAR Craic 10K event. Organised by Aisling Events, the race is scheduled to depart from City Hall at 9am, concluding at Ormeau Park. Between approximately 8am and 11am, motorists should expect delays and diversions along a route encompassing the city centre, Falls Road, Stranmillis Embankment, and Ormeau Road.

Further disruption is anticipated for the Belfast City Council St Patrick's Day parade. The parade will leave City Hall at 1.30pm, following a circular route through Chichester Street, Victoria Street, High Street, Castle Place, and Donegall Place. To facilitate the procession, rolling diversions will be active from 12.30pm to 3.30pm in several areas, including:

• Donegall Square West, College Square East, and Wellington Place.

• High Street (inner), Castle Place, Royal Avenue, and Donegall Place.

• Victoria Street, Bridge Street, and Chichester Street.

• Ann Street, plus partial closures on Upper Arthur Street, Skipper Street, and Seymour Street.

Additionally, specific road closures will be in effect from 12.30pm until 6pm to accommodate the St Patrick's Music Festival in the Cathedral Quarter. Affected streets include sections of Donegall Street, Exchange Street West, Academy Street, and Curtis Street.

Translink has confirmed it will operate a holiday service throughout the day. While some bus diversions will be necessary during the parade, passengers are advised to check bus stop display screens or the official Translink website for real-time updates.

Comprehensive details regarding all planned events, parking, and traffic arrangements are available on the Belfast City Council website.