Alliance Councillor Kate Nicholl has said she is deeply disappointed the opportunity to see Belfast City centre adjust Sunday trading has been turned down for a final time.
Speaking after the latest Strategic, Policy and Resource Committee meeting, Councillor Nicholl said she was ‘frustrated’ at the decision that had the potential to transform Belfast’s Sunday potential.
She added: “The consultation previously carried out pointed to the fact the majority are in favour of seeing the strict Sunday trading laws altered. But this wasn’t even about changing things permanently, we were only talking about 18 Sundays a year.
“Everything pointed to this being a success for Belfast, especially in terms of the economic benefit. I can’t tell you how many times I have witnessed frustrated tourists who have been met with closed signs while trying to explore our city.
“Those who voted against this, I would ask them what they are going to do to recommend Belfast to the 36,500 people from 21 cruise ships that traditionally arrive on Sunday mornings over the course of the year.
“We may have lost out on a key opportunity now, but I hope to see this decision over turned in years to come.”