Our Vision for Newtownards Road 2030
PLAN UNVEILS VISION FOR VIBRANT AND CONNECTED NEWTOWNARDS ROAD
An east Belfast Local Action Group brought together by EastSide Partnership, a neighbourhood regeneration charity, has unveiled ‘Our Vision for Newtownards Road’. A five-year plan which focuses on the role that a range of community, statutory and local businesses will play to support and develop a collective vision to create a unique and vibrant destination, connected with Belfast city and welcoming to all.
The Newtownards Road is the heart of East Belfast and a vital arterial route emanating from the city centre. With a long and proud history, the road is home to many residents, businesses, churches and community organisations. Over the years it has seen significant investment with projects such as The Skainos Centre, City East, Portview, Pitt Park redevelopment and C.S. Lewis Square, but like many inner-city communities, it continues to face challenges such a vacant buildings, derelict sites and heavy traffic.
To unlock the potential of the Newtownards Road, EastSide Partnership has taken a collaborative approach. Working with the Newtownards Road Local Action Group, urban design consultants, and involving the local community, a strategic development plan has been created to breathe new life into the area. The group includes representation from community and statutory agencies, local residents and businesses, and elected members. The development of the plan has been supported with thanks by The Urban Villages Initiative, Belfast City Council and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
The approach to the plan is based on the Department for Communities ‘Living High Streets’ process of engagement and a community led approach to placemaking. The Living High Streets Framework Place Change Model is a comprehensive approach to urban revitalisation. Launched by the Ministerial Advisory Group and Department for Communities in 2024, ‘Living High Streets’ focuses on transforming high streets. It emphasises a holistic understanding of place, considering physical, social, economic and environmental factors. The model involves stages such as assessment, engagement, visioning, planning, implementation and monitoring. It encourages collaboration among stakeholders and sets clear goals aligned with the community’s aspirations.
Welcoming the plan, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said,
“The Newtownards Road Local Action Group has put forward an exciting vision for the future of the Newtownards Road, engaging the community to ensure regeneration in the area meets the needs and desires of the people living there. It sets out a clear plan for a vibrant, thriving road that benefits the community and attracts business and visitors to a rejuvenated area.”
Councillor Sam Nelson, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, welcomed the launch of the plan.
He said: “This plan and the vision behind it really complements the Belfast Agenda – the city’s community plan. It can help regenerate the Newtownards Road area in a way that will strengthen connections with the rest of city, while adding vibrancy to the local area.
“This vision is a positive partnership which aims to use collaboration and co-design to create an exciting, sustainable future for this part of Belfast. It reflects our council’s aims of putting the needs and aspirations of the local community – residents and businesses – at the very heart of regeneration.”
Michele Bryans, Chief Executive of EastSide Partnership, commented:
“We are very excited to launch a new strategic plan for the Newtownards Road. It is a very special part of east Belfast rich in industrial heritage and cultural activity. What makes it unique is its diversity of use and its future potential for local people as well as being a key gateway to the city centre. I look forward to being one of many organisations who will continue to lead and take forward the plan. It is the start of a process which will include ongoing involvement from local people and key agencies.”
The Paul Hogarth Company’s Director, James Hennessey added:
“It has been a privilege to work with the Local Action Group, supporting them in the preparation of this important plan. They have worked hard to ensure that the vision accurately reflects the priorities of the community and with them, we would like to thank everyone who has participated in this process. We look forward to seeing future projects and developments come to fruition.”
A copy of the full report can be downloaded here;