Consultation Launched On East Belfast Walkway Improvement Plans

Belfast residents are being asked to share their views on plans for environmental improvements to a walkway in the east of the city.

The Bloomfield Walkway, which runs from the Beersbridge Road onto the Upper Newtownards Road at the Hollywood Arches is set for an upgrade including new planting and landscaping, street furniture, resurfaced paths, enhanced lighting and improved accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.

The popular thoroughfare is owned by the Department for Infrastructure, which is funding the scheme.

Two information sessions have been scheduled to give interested parties the opportunity to hear more about the plans and share their feedback:

• Eastside Visitor Centre, 402 Newtownards Road, Friday 08 March, 2pm-7pm

• Walkway Community Centre, Finvoy Street, Monday 11 March, 10am-3pm

Peter Johnston, chair of Belfast City Council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, said: "Bloomfield Walkway is a key link for pedestrians and cyclists, and has already benefitted from investment via Council's Local Investment Fund, with the creation of a play park and multi-use games area in 2015.

"This work will build on those enhancements to create a welcoming, safe and attractive linear park for the local community to enjoy. The works will also mean improved accessibility for cyclists and walkers along this stretch of the Comber Greenway."

The project is part of wider improvement plans for the east of the city which seek to regenerate key stretches of the Greenway down to Titanic railway halt to improve open spaces and the travel infrastructure."

Councillor Johnston added: "While this project will be delivered by Council, it is an example of how we are taking an area-planning approach with our partners to ensure that there is joined-up thinking and consistency of design between projects to ensure that, together, we are delivering the best possible result for communities.

"Our Belfast Agenda has clear goals to deliver a vibrant, attractive, connected and environmentally sustainable city for everyone; to improve people's health and wellbeing, and to encourage engagement and inclusivity; and as a Council, we are committed to working with our partners to achieve those aims through projects such as the Greenway projects."

A DfI official commented: "The Department is pleased to be working collaboratively with Belfast City Council on this important improvement project at Bloomfield Walkway. The enhancements have been carefully considered and will provide a significant improvement for walkers and cyclists using this stretch of the Comber Greenway."



(JG/MH)