Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has urged the public to contribute views on expanding pedestrianisation in Belfast city centre, saying now is the ideal moment to get involved.

Her comments come after the success of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, when some city streets were closed to traffic and footfall over the eight-day festival was recorded at more than 1.6 million.

The Minister said: "When I came into office, I set out my Department's Seven Foundations for a Better Future. These included creating cleaner, greener, town centres through a person-centred approach to all we do over the next decade."

"The huge success of the Fleadh has just shown us exactly what that can look like and how we can build on this success for next year, with an even bigger event. "The measures introduced for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann clearly demonstrated the benefits of pedestrianisation and has led for calls for a more permanent solution. This has shown how we can make Belfast a nicer place for people and their families to live, to work and to visit.

"My Department has already been working diligently behind the scenes to prepare a new Transport Plan for the Belfast area.

"In the next few weeks, I will bring forward a consultation which includes proposals for the expansion of pedestrianisation in Belfast city centre."

The Minister added: "It is my ambition to reshape our town and city centres to put people first, creating more attractive, accessible and vibrant places while reducing car dependency and encouraging sustainable travel choices.

"I want to hear everyone's views on these proposals to ensure that everything we do is accessible for all."