Cyclists of all abilities took part in a community ride from Queen's University to Belfast City Hall this morning as the Ride On Belfast event returned for Bike Week. Funded by Belfast City Council and organised by Cycul, the event aims to promote cycling for both commuting and leisure.

Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly welcomed riders at City Hall. She said the large turnout demonstrated that many people are opting to leave their cars at home and choose cycling for their daily journeys. The councillor noted that Belfast is a compact city well suited to getting around on foot or by bike, and that events like this highlight how cycling contributes to a healthier and greener city. She added that with the Fleadh set to bring many visitors to Belfast, people will be encouraged to cycle as a way to explore the city at their own pace while helping to keep traffic moving.

Stephen McNally from Cycul said the event gave participants a taste of what cycling in the city could be like if bikes were given priority. He described cycling as a fun, efficient and healthy way to travel and expressed hope that the ride would persuade more people to adopt it for regular journeys. He also urged politicians and transport planners to make such safe cycling conditions an everyday experience rather than a once-a-year occasion.

Belfast City Council supports a range of active travel initiatives, including the Bolder Vision for Belfast strategy developed jointly with the Department for Communities and the Department for Infrastructure. The strategy prioritises walking, cycling and public transport in the city centre to make more room for people and improve links with surrounding communities.