Belfast risks falling behind without late-night transport boost

Over 1,000 businesses and organisations have united in a call for year-round late-night transport in Belfast, warning that the city's night-time economy—and its competitiveness—hangs in the balance. Despite being a UK capital, Belfast remains the only one without consistent late-night bus and rail services.

Industry leaders, including NI Chamber and Visit Belfast, argue this lack of provision hampers economic growth, limits workforce mobility, and discourages footfall in the city after hours. A successful pilot last Christmas moved over 17,000 passengers, proving public appetite and operational viability. With Northern Ireland’s night-time economy employing 40,000 people across 5,000 businesses, transport is no longer seen as a luxury, but as core infrastructure.

Civic and industry leaders are now pressing the Executive for action before year-end, backed by a new research project set to quantify the value of the after-dark economy and sharpen future policy.

Read the full article to see what’s at stake for Belfast’s business landscape.