Plans to revitalise Belfast city centre are one step closer to fruition after a recent committee meeting.

The Council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee met last night, 12 February, progressing plans which will reimagine the city centre.

Local Alliance Councillor Nuala McAllister has welcomed the progress and called for plans to kickstart a new version of Belfast.

"Belfast city centre has the potential to be the heart of everything that happens in our city," she said. "We need to encourage an inclusive and connected city centre attractive to families, shoppers, workers and visitors alike. City centre living may provide the lifeblood that many businesses need, but families, workers and visitors need appropriate services, such as open spaces and parks."

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The North Belfast Cllr has identified plans like pedestrianising the city centre, creating a safe cycle network to connect the city centre to all communities across Belfast, and developing a cafe culture.

Cllr McAllister added: "There is a lot of investment currently taking place and planned, but we need to make sure this investment can enrich opportunities - that is why the work must start now. Only by collaborating together from the onset will we transform the city centre into a diverse and welcoming place.

"It is also important that people who live on the edges of the city centre feel they are part of the city through proper planning of the arterial routes that should facilitate easy movement and not act as barriers. People in North Belfast, for example, need to see the benefits of the developments that will take place over the next few years and be assured they will not be left behind.

"Belfast City Council has an important role to play in reimagining the city centre. Council needs to ensure that relevant government departments and developers work in a co-ordinated way for the benefit of all. The Alliance group of councillors will be to the fore in promoting Belfast City Centre at every opportunity and helping bring these important plans to fruition."

(CM/MH)