Belfast Transport Hub regeneration project gets underway

Belfast Transport Hub Regeneration Project has entered an important phase of work with demolition beginning on the main construction site area situated along Grosvenor Road in the City Centre.

Northern Ireland operator Translink has marked the beginning of demolition work as part of the Belfast Transport Hub Regeneration Project.

Newry based company, John Tinnelly and Sons Ltd, has been appointed to complete the demolition of large old warehouse buildings signifying the first stage of enabling works aimed at clearing the site for future development.

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway and Transport Minister Michelle McIlveen

The project will create a leading integrated Public Transport Hub that will be gateway for Belfast. Located on the site of the Europa Buscentre and Great Victoria Street Train Station, the new Hub will provide links via bus, coach and rail services. The development will also include a large section of commercial development bringing the potential for significant private investment.

Speaking during a tour of the demolition works site, Regional Development Minister, Michelle McIlveen MLA said: “I am really pleased to see the start of enabling works as this key project for Belfast begins to get off the ground.

“The Transport Hub has been identified by the Northern Ireland Executive as one of seven flagship projects for funding recognising its strategic importance in supporting the growth of the local economy.

“This impressive facility will be a catalyst for the regeneration of this area and ensure we have the right infrastructure in place to attract more people to use public transport.

“It will also act as an important gateway to Belfast as a modern, confident and progressive city.”

Belfast Transport Hub Construction phase to begin in 2018

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway said: “The popularity of public transport continues to grow and we want to offer attractive services and facilities that deliver an excellent customer journey experience.

“Investment in public transport infrastructure has a very positive impact on local and regional economies as evidenced in cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham.

“The Transport Hub will support the regeneration and development of the Belfast City Council’s Special Action Area described as the Linen Quarter. It will combine bus and rail termini with interfaces to provide car, cycle, taxi and Belfast Rapid Transit. We also plan to bring all cross-border trains into the new facility ensuring better connectivity and access between Belfast and Dublin.

“We continue to engage closely with a range of community, business and political stakeholders to consider project masterplan options. Their input will influence the operational and functional features of the Hub.

“We look forward to continued discussion that will secure essential funding and planning permission to deliver this complex and ambitious regeneration project.”

Hub construction work is due to commence in 2018 subject to planning and funding approvals.