Series of measures to tackle ongoing traffic congestion in Belfast city centre announced

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) is set to undertake a series of measures to help ease traffic congestion in Belfast.

Traffic in the city centre has been criticised for its congestion particularly at peak times throughout the year, which has been caused by several factors including the movement of bus lanes and ongoing roadworks across the city.

In a statement, the Department has said it has created an “oversight group” alongside Belfast City Council, PSNI and Translink to address the issue.

That group has now created the following measures:

• a review and optimisation of traffic signals at key junctions including Durham Street / Grosvenor Road and Fisherwick Place / Great Victoria Street, as well as an amendment to arrangements at Glengall Street / Great Victoria Street junction;
• use of additional roadside signage, including variable message signs, to provide the public with guidance on avoiding congested roads in the city centre and promoting alternative modes of travel including park & ride;
• improvements to public transport services on key strategic routes and from Ballymartin, Cairnshill and Sprucefield park and ride sites have been introduced, while an increased use of the social media profile TrafficWatch on X, formerly Twitter, will commence;
• increased targeted visibility and engagement by PSNI in relation to traffic infringements in particular Yellow Box infringements at key junctions which have been identified as exacerbating traffic congestion

The measures come as roadworks across the city are set to be suspended ahead of the festive season.

In addition, planned work on the Sydenham bypass has been cancelled this weekend, meaning it will remain open.

A departmental spokesperson said: “The ongoing work in and around Belfast represents a significant investment, which will ultimately improve and enhance the cityscape, however we fully appreciate that this work is causing delay and frustration for motorists travelling through or to the city centre.

“Mitigating the congestion issues requires a collective approach, with everyone considering how they can play a part to help everyone better share out the limited road space available in a smarter way.”

The spokesperson added: “More generally, we are appealing to motorists to consider other options they can take to avoid congestion such as public transport, park and ride, active travel or, if possible, planning their journey to use an alternative route or to avoid peak times.

“To reinforce this messaging, a bespoke public advertising campaign (on radio and outdoor platforms) has been commissioned to promote Park & Ride to Belfast City Centre in the run-up to Christmas. This will go live on w/c December 2.

“For those who are travelling to or through the city centre by car, the advice is to allow extra time for your journey, be patient and respect other road users; and to follow the advice and direction on road signs and markings, particularly yellow boxes.”

“Over the coming weeks and months, the strategic oversight group will oversee the implementation of the mitigation measures and communication initiatives. The group will continue to monitor traffic patterns within the city centre and consider the requirement for further mitigations as required.”