A pilot scheme to extend Sunday trading hours in Belfast city centre has been given the green light, with Alliance Castle Councillor Sam Nelson welcoming the move as a chance to breathe new life into the area on Sunday mornings.

During a special meeting of Belfast City Council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee earlier today (Monday 28th April), a report outlining the setup of the pilot scheme was discussed and subsequently agreed upon. This decision is set to be formally ratified at a full council meeting on Thursday night (1st May).

Councillor Nelson, who proposed the initiative, expressed his delight at the progress. "After years of discussion and extensive consultation with those positioned right across the spectrum of opinion on extending Sunday trading hours, I'm delighted to see this pilot scheme be agreed," he said. He outlined the ambition behind the scheme: "We want to see a thriving, prosperous Belfast city centre that is open for business and filled with activity every day of the week. The launch of this scheme, alongside the exploration of other initiatives such as public transport incentives, family animation and support for an artists market, represents a step forward in our efforts to create more jobs, increase footfall for our local businesses, and further revitalise our city centre."

Mr Nelson also addressed concerns surrounding workers' rights and smaller retailers, emphasising their importance in any potential changes. "The protection of workers' rights, and support for smaller retailers, remains at the centre of considerations around any proposed change to trading hours. In fact, the pilot scheme will allow us to properly assess all the impacts and benefits, delivering solid evidence we can use in making any future decisions."

Concluding his remarks, Councillor Nelson highlighted the potential benefits for various stakeholders. "We want to give shoppers, tourists, families and businesses alike more freedom of choice, and help create a city centre that is thriving and vibrant every day of the week. We're excited for the potential this pilot possesses, and look forward to seeing it ratified at full council and fully rolled out in the future."

The pilot scheme will now proceed to the full council for final approval, paving the way for a potential shake-up of Sunday trading in Belfast city centre.