Hill Street, Belfast to be pedestrianised from Thursday 4 December

Hill Street, Belfast to be pedestrianised from Thursday 4 December

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that Hill Street in Belfast will be a pedestrianised zone from Thursday 4 December 2025.

The Experimental Traffic Control Scheme will pedestrianise Hill Street in Belfast between Gordon Street and Waring Street. The scheme also introduces a one-way system on Gordon Street from its junction with Hill Street to Dunbar Street in an easterly direction.

The Minister said: “Hill Street is a thriving area in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast as more and more visitors come to enjoy the hospitality on offer.   

“My Department has been actively engaging with local businesses and those in the hospitality and retail sectors who have expressed support for the pedestrianisation of Hill Street and I am pleased that the proposals are now being made a reality.

“Importantly this scheme will facilitate a vibrant social space that prioritises people by making the streets safer for pedestrians.  By contributing to a more pleasant and enjoyable environment it will help maximise the street’s potential and enhance the nighttime and weekend economy. The scheme is also complemented by our recent announcement of late night buses, ensuring that more people can visit and socialise in the city centre safely.”

Damien Corr Manager of Cathedral Quarter BID  said that they have been lobbying and working with businesses on the street for years to get this over the line. He added that he looked forward to businesses reaping the benefits as the most iconic street in the city delivers its full potential. Mr Corr thanked Minister Kimmins and the DFI team for getting this delivered before Christmas.

The Department will keep the experimental scheme under review over the initial six-month period.