Kimmins sets out a vision for a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient transport network
Date published:
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has set out a vision for a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient transport network.
The Minister was speaking as the Transport Strategy 2035 was published and as she launched the consultation of the draft Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) 2035.
The Transport Strategy 2035, outlines the Department's ambition to deliver a cleaner, smarter and more inclusive transport system by 2035. One which addresses climate change requirements, serves both urban and rural communities and supports economic growth.
The draft ETP seeks to build upon the strategy by detailing proposed changes to reimagine a transport system that will expand travel choices and better connect communities to the people, services and opportunities they rely on. It aims to prioritise active travel and public transport , while contributing to reduced carbon emissions, improved air quality and healthier, safer, more accessible and inclusive communities.
ETP Proposals for Belfast City Centre include:
- Expanded pedestrian-priority streets and a new civic spine.
- City centre-wide 20mph speed limit.
- New Glider routes, simplification of bus routing and additional bus priority measures.
- Expanded segregated cycling network.
- Reduced through-traffic and parking management reforms.
ETP Proposals for the wider Metropolitan area include:
- New Glider corridors on key radial routes.
- New and upgraded cycling infrastructure.
- Targeted 20mph zones and public realm improvements in local centres.
- New and expanded Park & Ride sites.
- Strategic transport network improvements, including bus priority measures.
By providing greater travel choice and improving connectivity between communities, the Plan aims to support sustainable economic growth and enhance quality of life throughout the region.
Publishing the Transport Strategy 2035 and launching the consultation on the first phase of the Eastern Transport Plan Minister Kimmins said:
"The publication of the new Transport Strategy sets out our vision for a more sustainable, safe, accessible, inclusive and effective transport network which meets the needs of both urban and rural communities while supporting economic growth across the region. Shaped by public engagement, it recognises that transport is about people and the opportunities it provides. As we respond to climate change, technological advances and changing lifestyles, a modern, efficient and sustainable transport system will be essential to future prosperity.
"This first phase of the Eastern Transport Plan marks the beginning of an important journey towards delivering that vision as it sets out the proposals for Belfast City and the wider Metropolitan area that will deliver a modern transport system that better serves residents, businesses and visitors alike. At its heart, the ETP is about people. I am committed to building a transport network that is accessible and welcoming for people of all backgrounds, incomes and abilities, enabling them to access opportunities and reach their full potential.
In relation to the Metropolitan Area proposals Minister Kimmins said:
"The Plan reflects our commitment to regional balance, ensuring that communities in both urban and rural areas benefit from improved access to employment, services and opportunities across the wider Metropolitan area.
The Minister concluded: "This draft Plan is an important first step in transforming how people move around the region, and public feedback will play a vital role in shaping its future. I encourage everyone to share their views and engage with the consultation process so that, together, we can create a better transport system for all."
The consultation is open until 25th January and is available at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/consultations/public-engagement-eastern-transport-plan-etp-2035-belfast-city-centre-and-belfast-metropolitan-area
Notes to editors:
- The draft Transport Strategy, launched for consultation in June 2025. Overall, the engagement demonstrated a clear mandate of support for the Strategy and its overarching ambition to deliver a more sustainable, inclusive, safe and resilient transport system. Transport Strategy 2035 | Department for Infrastructure
- The Eastern Transport Plan is the first in a series of Transport Plans that will cover all 11 council areas and set out the Department's transport investment priorities through to 2035.
- The draft ETP has been developed in close collaboration with five local councils: Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Ards and North Down Borough Council, Belfast City Council, Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, and Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
- Given the strong links between the Transport Plan and councils' Local Development Plans, and recognising the advanced stage of Belfast City Council's Local Policies Plan, this initial consultation focuses on the Belfast City and wider Metropolitan area. Consultations for the remaining council areas will follow in due course.
- Local consultation events will be held throughout the consultation period and will be promoted on the Department’s social media channels.
- All media queries should be directed to the Department for Infrastructure Press Office.
- The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
- Follow the Department on social media: X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Bluesky.