Minister for Infrastructure explains temporary Belfast bus lane access amid Grand Central works
The Northern Ireland Assembly faced questions around new measures aimed at reducing the impact of major public realm works taking place around Belfast’s Grand Central Station.
Last week, John O’Dowd, Minister for Infrastructure, revealed plans that will allow certain taxis to use designated bus lanes in the area, offering a practical solution to the congestion and access issues caused by the ongoing construction.
The decision comes as part of broader efforts to ease the disruption that has affected commuters, businesses, and residents alike. The works, which form part of a wider project to develop a state-of-the-art transport hub in Belfast, have caused significant road closures and delays in the city centre. With completion expected to bring major long-term benefits, including better transport connections and improved public spaces, the temporary taxi access is designed to provide immediate relief during the works.
Temporary Taxi Access to Ease Congestion
Minister O’Dowd confirmed that the new provisions will permit class A and class C taxis to use certain bus lanes in and around the Grand Central Station site. This will allow taxis to move more freely through the area, reducing congestion on key routes and ensuring that services remain as efficient as possible during the construction period.
The minister stressed the importance of the taxi industry in maintaining access for the public, particularly for those who rely on door-to-door transport. “Taxis provide an essential service for many, including vulnerable members of society who need reliable transport to get to work, medical appointments, or social activities,” he said. The measure will also help support local businesses and tourism, which depend on smooth transport links. With many tourists using taxis to connect with Belfast’s wider transport network, ensuring that taxis can move efficiently through disrupted areas will be a key factor in maintaining visitor satisfaction.
The Role of Class A and Class C Taxis
The inclusion of class A and class C taxis in the proposal is particularly significant. Class A taxis, which include public hire vehicles such as black cabs, play a crucial role in providing on-demand services within the city. Meanwhile, class C taxis, which are private hire vehicles, are often pre-booked for journeys and offer flexibility for a wide range of users. By allowing both types of taxis to use the bus lanes, the proposal covers the majority of Belfast’s taxi fleet, ensuring the benefit is felt across the city.
The bus lanes in question are a vital part of Belfast’s road network, particularly for commuters and public transport users. Opening these up to taxis, albeit temporarily, will help reduce bottlenecks and improve overall traffic flow, particularly during peak hours when the disruption is most keenly felt.
A Step Towards Reducing Disruption
The ongoing construction work around Grand Central Station forms part of an ambitious infrastructure project that will significantly alter the landscape of central Belfast. While the development promises to bring long-term improvements to the city’s transport network, the short-term impact has been considerable. Road closures, diversions, and restricted access have led to frustration among commuters and businesses operating in the area.
During the Assembly session, Pat Sheehan, MLA for Sinn Féin, raised the issue of the ongoing disruption and questioned how the city would cope during the remaining phases of the works. In response, Minister O’Dowd acknowledged the difficulties faced by the public and businesses but stressed that the long-term benefits of the project would outweigh the short-term inconveniences.
“The completion of the Grand Central works will be transformative for Belfast,” O’Dowd said. “Once finished, we will have a state-of-the-art transport hub with high-quality public realm works around it. It will be an attractive asset to the city, providing a modern and efficient transport system.”
