Speaking at Belfast City Council’s Evening Economy conference, the minister said: “I am pleased to announce two new regeneration initiatives for the riverfront. Firstly, I have commissioned a study to make recommendations on the redevelopment of the Lagan Lookout and the riverside area around the Lagan Weir towards Lanyon Place. I have in mind the opportunity to exploit the potential of the Lookout as an improved multi-use visitor centre by extending the building and refurbishing it. Our plans for the riverfront at the Lookout also involve providing a mini marina of pontoon moorings for small craft bringing life to the river.
"I have commissioned a second study to make recommendations on improving pedestrian and bicycle access across the river from the east bank to the city centre. The legacy regeneration statement published by the Laganside Corporation recommended that ideal locations would be new footbridges at Donegall Quay to Queen's Quay, from the Gasworks to Ormeau Park or an enhancement of the existing footbridge at the Lagan Weir.”
The potential bridge at Donegall Quay will make travel by foot easier in the Quays area linking North Belfast, Greater Clarendon and Cathedral Quarter with the Odyssey and Titanic Quarter.
Also, the potential bridge linking the Gasworks site to the Ormeau Park will encourage further pedestrian movement in the South and East of the city – for workers, residents and tourists alike.
The minister went on to say: “I will be in a position within the next six months to make a further announcement on the results from the studies and how and when these riverside projects will proceed.
"As you can imagine, these initiatives too can make a contribution to the evening economy in the city centre and riverfront by providing new places for people to spend their leisure time and better access routes across the river.”
Notes to Editors:
- The estimated cost of the studies is £100,000. Implementation of recommendations arising from the studies is subject to economic appraisal, the availability of funding and obtaining planning approval.
- The Lookout and weir study is being carried out by DSD’s regeneration and planning consultants, Drivers Jonas. Consultants to carry out the bridges study will be appointed shortly. The bridges study will update previous studies carried out by the former Laganside Corporation and take account of the proposal for a bridge at the Sirocco Works development.
- Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned
