SDLP Belfast City Council Group Leader and Lisnasharragh Councillor Séamas de Faoite has been elected chair of the Council’s Future of the City Centre working group.

The group will focus on addressing the issues impacting the city centre, driving regeneration, and attracting investment.

Councillor de Faoite said:

“There’s been a lot of talk in recent years around how we tackle the problems that exist in Belfast and exploit the opportunities to make our city a modern, thriving, and welcoming place to live and visit. But unfortunately there hasn’t been enough action. We have been dealing with issues around cleanliness, vacant buildings, the night time economy and mental health and addiction issues that require our immediate attention.

“I am determined to drive the change our city needs. The SDLP’s priorities include the promotion of our nighttime economy through the appointment of a Night Mayor, pedestrianisation our city centre, active travel routes and the creation of more green spaces. We also want to establish safe spaces and support networks for those suffering from addiction, mental health issues and homelessness.

“We will not be able to solve these problems overnight but as Chair of the working group I will be making progress a top priority. There is huge potential that exists within Belfast, we are a growing city with a young, diverse and talented population. The SDLP is working to build a cleaner, fairer future for Belfast in a new Ireland.”