Planning Permission Secured as West Belfast Greenway Construction Set to Begin
Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has confirmed the crucial planning permission milestone for the West Belfast Greenway, with transformative works due to start on Monday, 20 October 2025, bolstering active travel and urban ecology.
The initial phase of this multi-million-pound scheme will upgrade paths through the Bog Meadows Nature Reserve, a nationally recognised Site of Local Nature Conservation Importance. This development is a core component of the Belfast Cycling Network, aiming to provide a mainly traffic-free corridor linking West Belfast to the city centre—enhancing connectivity, accessibility, and public health. The scope of work has been carefully shaped to minimise environmental impact, supported by close collaboration with Ulster Wildlife and the use of sustainable construction practices.
As part of project delivery, some ash trees and hedgerows will be removed under agreements that also require the creation of new wetland ponds, supporting the area’s rich biodiversity. Edge treatments will complement the existing wet grassland, maintaining the delicate balance between flood-risk development and habitat conservation. The contractor, John McQuillan Contracts Ltd, will also undertake additional conservation initiatives for Ulster Wildlife to reinforce the reserve’s unique ecological value.
The Department for Infrastructure estimates the first phase will cost £500,000 and take approximately 27 weeks to complete, subject to weather and the need for sensitive excavation in this ecologically important area. Temporary path closures within Bog Meadows Nature Reserve will be necessary for public safety and construction efficiency, with clear signage to guide visitors. A public information event on 2 October 2025 provided community insight ahead of the work—further phases will connect Bog Meadows to Andersonstown, advancing the greenway’s citywide benefits.
The West Belfast Greenway reflects a rare integration of flood-risk development awareness and urban green infrastructure planning, ensuring that both wildlife and the local community benefit from enhanced access and environmental impact mitigation. This project sets a benchmark for future housing scheme approvals and active travel networks across Northern Ireland, demonstrating what material contravention of past planning norms can achieve when vision, community engagement, and ecological sensitivity align.
Originally reported in The Northern Ireland Executive on Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:06:35 +0000. Full story
