Minister Kimmins approves pedestrianisation trial for Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has confirmed that an experimental scheme to pedestrianise Hill Street in Belfast will go ahead later this year.

The Minister said:

“Following an informal consultation period during which concerns were raised by some businesses in the area around access to their premises, my officials agreed to undertake further discussions.

“Those discussions have now concluded positively and I can confirm that the necessary paperwork is currently being prepared to allow the experimental legislation to move forward.”

The Department for Infrastructure has confirmed that details of the pilot pedestrianisation scheme will be formally advertised in the local press during October. Implementation is expected to begin in November.

The trial will run for an initial six-month period, as set out in legislation governing experimental traffic schemes. The timeframe can be extended to a maximum of 18 months before a final decision is made on whether the scheme should be removed or made permanent.

Hill Street, located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, is a popular area with restaurants, bars and cultural venues. Advocates of pedestrianisation argue it could improve the visitor experience, encourage footfall, and create a safer environment for pedestrians.

However, concerns had been raised by some local businesses about access to premises and potential impacts on deliveries.

The Minister’s confirmation signals that a compromise has been reached, paving the way for one of the city’s most notable pedestrianisation initiatives in recent years.