27/10/2026
Kimmins Unveils Plan For Greener, Fairer And More Resilient Transport By 2035
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has set out plans for a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient transport network with the publication of the Transport Strategy 2035 and the launch of a consultation on the draft Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) 2035.
The Transport Strategy 2035 sets the Department's ambition to deliver a cleaner, smarter and more inclusive system by 2035, meeting climate obligations, serving both urban and rural areas and underpinning economic growth.
Building on the Strategy, the draft ETP proposes a reimagined transport system that widens travel choices and strengthens connections to essential people, services and opportunities. It prioritises active travel and public transport to cut carbon emissions, improve air quality and support healthier, safer, more accessible and more inclusive communities.
Key proposals for Belfast City Centre include:
- More pedestrian-priority streets and creation of a new civic spine.
- A 20mph speed limit across the city centre.
- New Glider routes, simplified bus routing and additional bus priority measures.
- An expanded segregated cycling network.
- Reduced through-traffic alongside reforms to parking management.
Across the wider Metropolitan area, proposals include:
- New Glider corridors on key radial routes.
- New and upgraded cycling infrastructure.
- Targeted 20mph zones and public realm improvements in local centres.
- New and expanded Park & Ride sites.
- Strategic transport network upgrades, including bus priority measures.
By broadening travel options and improving connectivity, the Plan aims to boost sustainable economic growth and enhance quality of life across the region.
Publishing the documents, Minister Kimmins said: "The publication of the new Transport Strategy sets out our vision for a more sustainable, safe, accessible, inclusive and effective transport network which meets the needs of both urban and rural communities while supporting economic growth across the region. Shaped by public engagement, it recognises that transport is about people and the opportunities it provides. As we respond to climate change, technological advances and changing lifestyles, a modern, efficient and sustainable transport system will be essential to future prosperity.
"This first phase of the Eastern Transport Plan marks the beginning of an important journey towards delivering that vision as it sets out the proposals for Belfast City and the wider Metropolitan area that will deliver a modern transport system that better serves residents, businesses and visitors alike. At its heart, the ETP is about people. I am committed to building a transport network that is accessible and welcoming for people of all backgrounds, incomes and abilities, enabling them to access opportunities and reach their full potential."
On the Metropolitan Area proposals, Minister Kimmins said: "The Plan reflects our commitment to regional balance, ensuring that communities in both urban and rural areas benefit from improved access to employment, services and opportunities across the wider Metropolitan area.
"This draft Plan is an important first step in transforming how people move around the region, and public feedback will play a vital role in shaping its future. I encourage everyone to share their views and engage with the consultation process so that, together, we can create a better transport system for all."
The consultation is open until 25 January and is available at www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/consultations/public-engagement-eastern-transport-plan-etp-2035-belfast-city-centre-and-belfast-metropolitan-area
The Transport Strategy 2035 sets the Department's ambition to deliver a cleaner, smarter and more inclusive system by 2035, meeting climate obligations, serving both urban and rural areas and underpinning economic growth.
Building on the Strategy, the draft ETP proposes a reimagined transport system that widens travel choices and strengthens connections to essential people, services and opportunities. It prioritises active travel and public transport to cut carbon emissions, improve air quality and support healthier, safer, more accessible and more inclusive communities.
Key proposals for Belfast City Centre include:
- More pedestrian-priority streets and creation of a new civic spine.
- A 20mph speed limit across the city centre.
- New Glider routes, simplified bus routing and additional bus priority measures.
- An expanded segregated cycling network.
- Reduced through-traffic alongside reforms to parking management.
Across the wider Metropolitan area, proposals include:
- New Glider corridors on key radial routes.
- New and upgraded cycling infrastructure.
- Targeted 20mph zones and public realm improvements in local centres.
- New and expanded Park & Ride sites.
- Strategic transport network upgrades, including bus priority measures.
By broadening travel options and improving connectivity, the Plan aims to boost sustainable economic growth and enhance quality of life across the region.
"This first phase of the Eastern Transport Plan marks the beginning of an important journey towards delivering that vision as it sets out the proposals for Belfast City and the wider Metropolitan area that will deliver a modern transport system that better serves residents, businesses and visitors alike. At its heart, the ETP is about people. I am committed to building a transport network that is accessible and welcoming for people of all backgrounds, incomes and abilities, enabling them to access opportunities and reach their full potential."
On the Metropolitan Area proposals, Minister Kimmins said: "The Plan reflects our commitment to regional balance, ensuring that communities in both urban and rural areas benefit from improved access to employment, services and opportunities across the wider Metropolitan area.
"This draft Plan is an important first step in transforming how people move around the region, and public feedback will play a vital role in shaping its future. I encourage everyone to share their views and engage with the consultation process so that, together, we can create a better transport system for all."
The consultation is open until 25 January and is available at www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/consultations/public-engagement-eastern-transport-plan-etp-2035-belfast-city-centre-and-belfast-metropolitan-area
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A mixture of bright spells and blustery showers, some heavy. A windy day too with fresh to strong southwesterly winds, with gales towards the north coast in the morning. The winds easing later. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Occasional showers will continue this evening and tonight especially over the north and west, but with some drier and clearer intervals too. Moderate to fresh southwesterly winds. Minimum temperature 7 °C.