Belfast City Council has confirmed that the collaboration of organisations across the public, private and third sectors is driving prosperity around the region, as well as across Northern Ireland.
This comes as part of the Belfast City and Region Place Partnership, which brings a number of stakeholders together from across the three different sectors to drive sustainable development and placemaking. Recognising the funding challenges that developments across Northern Ireland face, the partnership works with the understanding that social and economic growth can be driven through the leveraging of private investment.
Chief Executive of Belfast City Council John Walsh said:
“The Belfast Agenda, which sets out our ambitions for the city, aligns closely with the Programme for Government’s objectives, focusing on driving inclusive, sustainable growth. Investment in quality homes, placemaking, connectivity and social infrastructure lies at the heart of that shared vision...
“The Belfast City & Region Place Partnership will continue to facilitate and encourage collaboration between local authorities, government agencies and businesses. By aligning efforts and resources with these overarching objectives, the partnership is creating a more cohesive approach to development that benefits all stakeholders. Through fostering cooperation and coordinating resources, we’re creating vibrant, inclusive spaces that support economic growth, community wellbeing and environmental sustainability.”
Thanks to the approach that the partnership takes, the aims of the Programme for Government that was set out by Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister Conor Murphy will be met, creating good new jobs, increasing productivity and promoting regional balance.
Joe O’Neill, Belfast City and Region Place Partnership’s Chair, also commented:
“The recent agreement on the Programme for Government marks a pivotal moment for Northern Ireland, providing a clear roadmap for our region's development. The Belfast City & Region Place Partnership is perfectly positioned to play a key role in realising these ambitions. In today's challenging economic climate, it's more important than ever that we work together across sectors to create spaces and places that benefit all our communities.
“We must also acknowledge the reality of our current financial landscape. Public sector finances are not just strained: they're severely drained after years of budget cuts and increasing demands on services. Attracting additional investment from the private sector is not just a very welcome opportunity, it’s imperative.”
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