Belfast City Council proposes closing a wide area of city centre roads to vehicles from 2-9 August for the All-Ireland Fleadh. The car-free zone will extend from City Hall past Castlecourt Shopping Centre to Ulster University on York Street. A smaller area beside City Hall including Wellington Place faces a shorter closure period.

The festival runs in Belfast for the first time this summer and again in 2027. Council expects 800,000 visitors during the first week of August, with peak attendance from 6-9 August. Road closures aim to improve safety and accessibility.

Public consultation on the plans opened this week and closes on 6 April. Tattoo artist James Conway, based on North Street, supports the closures to allow more space for crowds with reduced traffic.

Sinn Féin councillor Natasha Brennan, who chairs the strategic policy and resources committee and helps organise the event, stated the measures will help maximise the event's potential. Events will span from Ulster University to Waterfront Hall with food markets across the city.

SDLP councillor Donal Lyons called for more permanent pedestrian areas in Belfast, noting busy streets in other cities are often pedestrianised.

Translink is coordinating with the council on bus route changes, with details due in coming weeks. Temporary campsites are set for Ormeau Park and Falls Park, plus motorhome and caravan space in Titanic Quarter.

Information sessions for retail and hospitality businesses continue, with the next at City Hall on 23 March at 12:00 GMT.