Self-Driving Vehicles

Self-Driving Bus Set for Belfast as NI Lags Behind on Autonomous Taxi Laws

A self-driving bus is set to launch in Belfast in the coming weeks, transporting passengers between Titanic train halt and Catalyst Science Park in the Titanic Quarter. Known as the Harlander, the service will initially operate with a safety operator on board, aiming to become fully autonomous by 2029.

Meanwhile, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has addressed questions about the introduction of self-driving taxis in Northern Ireland. Responding to SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan, she confirmed that Northern Ireland lacks the legislative framework needed to trial fully autonomous vehicles without human drivers — a key difference from Great Britain, where such a pilot is due to begin in 2026 under the new Automated Vehicles Act.

“There is no such framework here,” Kimmins said, but noted her department will monitor developments in England closely.

While GB prepares for a future with driverless taxis on public roads, Northern Ireland remains some distance away from similar technology becoming a reality.

A5 Road Scheme

Judge Blocks A5 Road Scheme as Minister Vows to Press On

A judge has ruled against the long-delayed £1.7bn A5 road project, citing breaches of Northern Ireland’s climate change targets and a lack of information. It marks the third time in 18 years the scheme has been overturned in court.

The legal challenge was brought by the Alternative A5 Alliance, a group of landowners who said they feel vindicated by the decision. The ruling halts plans to proceed with the 58-mile (94km) route, which received renewed approval from Stormont ministers last October.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said she is “not giving up” on delivering a safer A5, noting the road’s poor safety record—over 50 deaths since 2006. Campaign group Enough is Enough called the judgement disappointing but acknowledged there were “some positives.”

The A5 forms a key cross-border route connecting Donegal and Derry to Dublin, passing through Strabane, Omagh and Aughnacloy.

Contractor Takes Possession

Timelines For The Demolition & Works Of Northland House 

Anticipated Timeline Summary:

• Site Mobilisation - Site set up, erection of site hoardings – 23/06/25 to 27/06/25.

• Internal Removal & Soft Strip (internal with limited disturbance) – 30/06/25 to 15/08/25

• NIE Disconnection – WC 18/08/25

• Demolition Works – 25/08/25 to 31/10/25

• Exposure Of Foundations – 03/11/25 to 28/11/25

• Site Clearance – 01/12/25 – 5/12/25

Traffic Management Plan Summary: 

• Contractors may park on the site, in designated areas only.

• Vehicles entering or leaving the site shall be supported by a banksman.

• Vehicles entering or leaving the site to coincide with Traffic Management Plans.

• Traffic Management Plan available in separate document.

Studio Ulster Opens

Bringing World-Class Virtual Production to the City

Belfast has taken a major step forward in the global creative industries with the official opening of Studio Ulster at the North Foreshore this week. The state-of-the-art facility is now among the world’s most advanced virtual production studios, supporting film, TV, gaming, and animation sectors.

The opening marks a significant milestone for the city, positioning Belfast as a leading hub for next-generation screen production technologies. The facility is expected to create new opportunities for jobs, skills development, and economic growth, both locally and internationally.

Studio Ulster has been part-funded through the Belfast Region City Deal, a major investment programme aimed at driving innovation and inclusive growth across the region.

The project is a collaboration between Ulster University, Belfast Harbour, and Northern Ireland Screen, with support from multiple partners who have helped bring the vision to life.

This landmark development adds a powerful new asset to Belfast’s growing reputation in the creative and digital industries, showcasing what the city has to offer to the world stage.

Water Worries

NI Water Funding Model "Not Fit for Purpose," Warns Fiscal Council

Northern Ireland's water infrastructure urgently requires investment, according to a new report from the NI Fiscal Council, which describes the current funding model as "not fit for purpose."

The Council warns that domestic water charges may be "inescapable" in the future to raise the necessary funds, as NI Water, a publicly owned body reliant on Executive funding, faces severe restrictions on its ability to invest. It estimates that catching up on essential development could take 18 years or more.

Underinvestment is already limiting economic growth, particularly in areas where commercial and residential development is needed.

Council Chair Sir Robert Chote said: "Water and sewerage services are essential to public health, environmental protection, and economic development. Charging for water or raising taxes would squeeze household finances, but avoiding action comes with its own costs."

The report notes that many households believe their water is paid through rates, but this has not been the case since 1998. Options such as privatisation or mutualisation have been ruled out by previous ministers.

Local Survey

New North Belfast Community Partnership Launches Public Survey to Shape Future Plans

A new initiative aimed at strengthening community ties in North Belfast is underway as local community groups come together to form the North Belfast Community Partnership. The development of this partnership is being co-ordinated by the Ashton Centre, with the goal of enhancing collaboration and addressing key issues across the area.

As part of this process, the Partnership has commissioned Ulster University to carry out research into residents’ experiences and attitudes. This important study, funded by the Department for Communities, will gather valuable insights from people living in the Neighbourhood Renewal areas of North Belfast.

Over the coming weeks, trained interviewers from Perceptive Insight – a professional and accredited polling company – will be visiting homes across the district to conduct face-to-face surveys. All interviewers will carry official identification for reassurance.

For those who prefer to take part online, the survey can also be completed via a QR code available at the Ashton Centre and displayed on selected bus shelters throughout North Belfast.

Residents are encouraged to take this opportunity to share their views and help shape the future direction of the North Belfast Community Partnership.

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