Belfast Chamber has called on the Department for Infrastructure to address concerns raised by local businesses relating to current infrastructure works taking place throughout the city.
Feedback from Belfast businesses across a range of sectors has highlighted the impact of the current congestion on daily operations, with issues including an increase in working from home as staff avoid prolonged travel times, disruptions to punctuality and productivity, late appointments and no-shows, and a general reluctance to travel into in the city centre by shoppers and business clients seek to avoid congestion.
Additionally, businesses are facing higher fuel costs due to extended idle time in traffic, something which raises significant environmental concerns.
Gavin Annon, President of Belfast Chamber commented:
“As we approach a crucial period for retail and hospitality businesses, the urgent need for practical and immediate interventions to improve Belfast’s traffic flow cannot be overstated.
“Our members are experiencing firsthand the strain and significant cost implications brought about by the current congestion. For many, managing daily business activities under these conditions feels like navigating a maze, with businesses finding it harder to connect with customers, operate efficiently, and maintain productivity amidst roadblocks and detours. This is not only a costly disruption to their businesses but impacting employee wellbeing and customer satisfaction.”
To alleviate these challenges, Belfast Chamber has identified several potential solutions including:
– amending traffic light sequences at congestion hotspots
– increase capacity by permitting taxis to use bus lane until works are completed
– expanding clearway zones and traffic police to help ease gridlock scenarios
– more works to be completed at off peak times such as through the night
– increased promotion and incentivisation of Park & Ride facilities
– improved signage and clearer communication regarding completion timelines and alternative routes
The Chamber has issued an invitation to officials to convene and urgently discuss these proposals.
Mr Annon continued:
“At Belfast Chamber, a better Belfast makes for a better Northern Ireland, and we understand the need for infrastructural improvements across our city.
“However, we also believe that our officials have a responsibility to adopt practical measures that will mitigate the potential knock-on-effects these improvement works may have on Belfast’s business community.
“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Department to find viable solutions that will see our city succeed and become an even better place to live, work, visit, study and invest.”
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