Emergency Action Needed After Meeting With Business Leaders

The need for urgent action to bring people back into Belfast city centre was the key message that came out of an emergency meeting with retailers, representatives of the hospitality industry, business organisations and local traders.

Hosted by Lord Mayor Gavin Robinson, the meeting followed a decision by the council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee on Friday January 11 to engage with business people to identify initiatives to counteract the current difficulties in the city and the negative image that has resulted.

The Lord Mayor said: "We were delighted that all sectors of business were represented, not just from the city centre but also from parts of the city that have been worst hit by the recent trouble.

"It was an opportunity for those present to vent not only their frustrations and fears but perhaps more importantly come up with ideas and initiatives to deal with the problem.

"The council is giving this matter some urgency and will consider all the issues that were discussed and come up with a joint plan of action to encourage people who work in the city centre to stay beyond work time and for others to come into the city and support our bars, restaurants and shops, while also supporting the retailers in their own localities.

"Now is not the time for recriminations and blame, it is the time to work together to ensure that the great work that we have all contributed to during the past few years to promote Belfast in a positive way is not lost.

"We aim to go back to the business organisations with a plan of action as soon as possible. I am confident that we can make a real difference in ensuring that the good image of Belfast as a great place to shop and socialise is not only restored but enhanced."

(CD)