Overview

• Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins announced the Keep Belfast Moving package on October 6, extending select bus lane hours to 07:30–09:30 and 15:30–18:30 on weekdays from November 3.
• A Belfast city centre embargo on non‑essential roadworks will run from November 10 to January 2, 2026, with other major towns and cities observing an embargo from November 24 to January 2.
• The extended hours apply to Stranmillis Road, Lower Lisburn Road, Ormeau Road, Saintfield Road, Ballynahinch Road in Carryduff, Malone Road, Upper Malone Road and Botanic Avenue.
• The new bus lane times are being introduced under an experimental order for an initial six months, after which the department will review the scheme.
• Signs will be erected ahead of the changes, with appeals for drivers to avoid bus lanes and for visitors to consider public transport, park‑and‑ride or active travel.