Communities Minister has announced the
commencement of construction on the Shankill Gateway Public Realm
scheme.
The project will take in the area from the Peter's Hill/North
Street junction and continue along the Lower Shankill Road to the
Agnes Street/Northumberland Street junction. This is the first
phase of the overall plan for public realm environmental
improvement works to the Shankill Road.
The scheme will deliver upgrades to the existing streetscape
through the provision of high-quality natural stone paving, tree
planting, new street furniture and improvements to pedestrian
crossing points. The carriageway will also be widened where
possible to better facilitate and improve public transport access
to the city centre. The project, which has been fully funded by
the Department for Communities with a total capital investment of
£3.18million, is anticipated to take approximately twelve months
to complete.
Minister Lyons said: “I am pleased to announce that construction
has now begun on the Shankill Gateway Public Realm Scheme. This
long‑awaited investment marks a significant milestone for the
Shankill Road, enhancing its role as a vibrant, welcoming and
well‑connected corridor, improving quality of life for residents,
and strengthening the local economy.
“My department's investment will enhance the appearance and
character of the area, boost local businesses, encourage active
travel, and help create a safer, more accessible environment for
everyone who lives, works or visits here. When complete, the
Shankill Gateway Scheme will deliver a modern, high‑quality
public realm that supports economic growth and reinforces the
strong community identity that defines the Shankill Road.”
The Shankill Gateway scheme forms part of the Department's wider
regeneration programme, aimed at improving public spaces,
supporting inclusive growth, and enhancing connectivity across
Belfast. The project builds on previous departmental commitments
to improve public realm quality and support community-led
regeneration initiatives in the area.
