The South Belfast Councillor was speaking after the announcement was made during the Chancellor’s budget on Wednesday afternoon.
He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Belfast; a city deal would bring investment, employment and – without exaggeration – is a game-changer for our city. Our ask centres around transport, regeneration and finance, all elements Belfast needs to face the future. It’s also positive that the lobbying was supported right across the political spectrum which shows just what can be achieved when we work together.
“This process will begin under an Alliance Lord Mayor who has consistently advocated for Belfast to be a main player on the international stage. Since taking up the post Nuala McAllister has consistently promoted her vision of a global Belfast, with today’s announcement our chance to make this a reality – showcasing the welcoming, open and inclusive city the majority aspire for it to be.”
Lord Mayor Councillor Nuala McAllister added: “A City Deal for the Belfast-region would be a 10 year investment plan to improve infrastructure in the region, develop innovation and skills and attract more and better jobs. This will create a real ‘fast-forward’ for economic growth here. Working closely with businesses, universities and further education sectors, locally elected representatives across all parties are committed to getting the best Deal possible.”