New Temporary Bus Lanes To Be Introduced In Belfast

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) has announced that new temporary bus lanes will come into operation in Belfast from Monday 1 July.

Temporary bus lanes are being implemented as major public improvement projects around the new Belfast Grand Central Station intensify. These measures aim to alleviate congestion by offering a viable alternative to driving. The Department advises commuters to consider active travel or public transport options for quicker journeys when accessing Belfast city centre in the upcoming months.

These lanes will ensure that emergency services can continue to access and move through the City Centre. They also play a vital role in creating a modern and effective transport network and contribute to a reduction in congestion and environmental pollution.

During operational hours, the lanes will be open to buses, motorcycles, bicycles and authorised taxis, while all vehicles will have access outside these times. The lanes will be clearly delineated with white markings and accompanied by appropriate signage. Any affected accessible parking spaces will be relocated accordingly.

Four new bus lanes will operate as follows:

•Howard Street – 24-hour bus lane on the approach to the Gt Victoria Street junction. The left turn into Gt Victoria Street will be for buses only.

•Gt Victoria Street - 7am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday, bus lane up to the junction with Bruce Street.

•Bruce Street - 7am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday, bus lane up to the junction with Dublin Road.

•Dublin Road - 7am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday, bus lane up to Shaftsbury Square.

In addition, there will be a bus lane on North Street, which will operate from 7 am to 7 pm, Monday to Saturday, from Bridge Street to Royal Avenue. The accessible parking bays for Blue Badge holders on North Street are being relocated, towards Bridge Street and into Royal Avenue.

A proposal for a temporary bus lane on the Lisburn Road, 8:30 am to 9:30am, Monday to Friday, from Jubilee Road (City Hospital) to Sandy Row is still being finalised.