Kimmins announces earlier roadworks embargo and extension to bus lane hours to Keep Belfast Moving

Date published: 6 October 2025

In Belfast the embargo, which covers all non-essential roadworks on key arterial routes, will now begin on 10 November and remain in place until January 2, 2026.

Liz Kimmins said: 

“Belfast is a thriving city where people come to work, shop and socialise and like all major cities we can expect more traffic as we head into the autumn and winter months.

“My department and those who do business in the city centre share a common goal – to keep Belfast moving as the city gets busier in the run-up to Christmas, and discussions have been ongoing throughout the year about the practical steps we can all take to achieve that. I have listened carefully to the business and hospitality sector and have decided to bring the roadworks embargo forward by two weeks to 10 November, when the festive season will be getting into full swing.”

“While delivering key infrastructure projects is essential for helping to build our economy I also recognise the need to strike a balance between continued development and the needs of the public and our business and hospitality sectors who rely on them, especially at this important time of year.”

The move is part of a package of measures to Keep Belfast Moving, which will also see an extension to operating hours for some bus lanes.

From Monday 3 November, a number of existing bus lanes, including on Ormeau Road, Lower Lisburn Road and Malone Road, will now operate from 7.30-9.30am and from 3.30-6.30pm (Monday to Friday).

Minister Kimmins said: 

“The operation of extended bus lane hours will assist Translink to provide more reliable public transport services across the network by allowing buses to avoid the worst impacts of traffic congestion. Signs to alert the public to the new bus lanes times will be erected in the coming weeks and I would urge road users to exercise caution and avoid parking or driving in the bus lanes as they get used to the new arrangements.

“It is vital that traffic flow around the city is maintained during this busy period.  We can all play our part to Keep Belfast Moving by thinking about how we travel into the city. I would encourage anyone coming to Belfast to consider using public transport, choosing one of the many park and ride sites on the approach to the city or by embracing active travel means.

“If you are travelling to another part of the city then think ahead and instead of travelling through the city choose another route such as the Outer Ring. If you must drive in the city please be mindful of other road users, abide by traffic signs and signals and do not block yellow box junctions.”

A roadworks embargo in other major towns and cities across the north will operate between 24 November and 2 January.