Belfast's Historic Entries Get Face Lift

22 September 2005
BELFAST'S HISTORIC ENTRIES GET FACE LIFT
Some of Belfast's oldest thoroughfares - the entries that criss-cross the city centre - have been given a Ł400,000 facelift.
Social Development Minister David Hanson MP, today marked the completion of the first phase of a project to revamp the city's historic alleyways.
The Minister visited three of the entries, Winecellar Entry, Pottinger's Entry and Castle Arcade, to see the environmental improvement work that has been completed.
Speaking at Winecellar Entry off Lombard Street, the Minister said: "This area is where Belfast began and developed into the city it is today. The entries have considerable architectural merit and are an important part of the city's history. Environmental improvement schemes, such as this one, are an important part of Government's strategy to improve the public realm for local people and tourists alike.
"Phase II of this project has identified a further three entries for environmental improvement: Crown Entry, Wilson's Court and Joy's Entry. Work on these is due to begin in April 2006 and is expected to cost a further Ł500,000."
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Wallace Brown, said: "Belfast City Council firmly believes that working in partnership with government departments, other agencies and the private sector is the best way forward to ensure the successful regeneration of the city centre"
He went on to say: "The entries initiative, which is part of the council's Brighter Belfast agenda, is an excellent example of how the partnership approach can succeed. The refurbishment of these famous entries, which are such an important part of the city's heritage, are an indicator that the city is on the road to recovery after many years of difficult times. I have been greatly impressed at the ideas and workmanship that has emerged to revitalise the entries. I have no doubt that the citizens of the city and our growing number of tourists will be equally impressed."
Stressing the importance of the entries project to the shopper and visitor experience of the city centre, Joanne Jennings, Belfast City Centre Manager, said: "Belfast City Centre Management has contributed private sector funds to the overall scheme, which has been funded by a number of agencies including the Department for Social Development and Belfast City Council. This is an excellent example of how Belfast City Centre is moving forward through strong private and public sector partnerships."

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