Gas Disconnection 

Delay to Gas Disconnection Halts Progress at Northland House

Plans to begin major demolition work at Northland House have been pushed back following further delays to the removal of a gas line running across the building’s front façade.

The existing Phoenix Gas line must be disconnected, removed, and the trench backfilled before demolition contractors can safely commence superstructure works. The disconnection was first requested in June 2025, with Phoenix initially advising completion within two weeks. The timeline later slipped to August, and the latest update confirms works will not be finished until 19 September 2025.

The setback means demolition contractors face a 23-day standstill, pushing the projected completion of superstructure demolition to 7 November 2025.

Project representatives said they are “continuing to seek improvement” and have suggested several alternatives that could potentially accelerate the timeline, but stressed that Phoenix Gas must complete its part before any progress can be made.

Updates on the situation are expected as discussions with Phoenix Gas continue.

Bin Collection Update 

New Safety Measures for Bin Collections in Belfast

Belfast residents are being advised of upcoming changes to bin collection procedures, aimed at improving safety for waste collection crews and the wider community.

From 4 August, new safety measures will come into effect as part of Belfast City Council’s efforts to reduce workplace injuries and street litter. Refuse vehicles are being upgraded with sensors that prevent the emptying of overfilled bins—specifically, those with lids that cannot fully close. These sensors are already fitted to some vehicles, with the entire fleet expected to be upgraded over the coming years. Once installed, collection crews will no longer be able to override the system.

The changes follow a serious incident elsewhere in the UK and are designed to help prevent accidents and protect frontline staff.

The council has highlighted two key safety concerns that led to this decision. First, overfilled bins pose a risk to workers, as they can fall or spill during the lifting process, potentially causing injuries or spreading litter across streets. Second, some residents use large plastic liners inside their bins to keep them clean. However, these liners can snag during emptying, leading to spills or bin damage, again putting staff at risk.

From 4 August, bins that are overfilled or contain large liners will receive an amber warning tag. Although these bins will still be emptied at this stage, the issue will be reported to the council’s Customer Hub. From 29 September, however, bins with these issues will not be collected. They will be tagged with a red notice, and residents will need to wait until their next scheduled collection after correcting the problem.

Residents are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure that bin lids are fully closed and that large liners are not used inside their bins. These changes are being introduced to improve the safety and efficiency of the waste collection service across Belfast.

Tips to Manage Your Waste and Help Keep Belfast Clean

Belfast residents are being encouraged to manage their household waste more effectively to support the city’s drive for a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment.

Residents are reminded to recycle right by making sure items are placed in the correct containers. Guidance is available on the council website and in the leaflet delivered with this letter. All recycling and food waste should be placed at the kerbside by 7am every Tuesday for collection.

Households are also urged to reduce and reuse by thinking before they throw – many items can be donated, repurposed, or reused instead of going to waste.  When disposing of rubbish, it’s important to use the right bin. Only non-recyclable waste should go in the black bin, and food waste must be placed in the food caddy—not the black bin.

For those who need support, Resource Advisors are available to visit homes and offer tailored advice. Information can also be provided in various formats and languages on request.

Residents can order free recycling containers online. Black bins can also be ordered online or through the Customer Hub, although a charge applies. Each household should have one black bin for general waste.

If you have any news you feel we should feature, please email us with the details to largbelfast@gmail.com.