The proposals include a wide consultation process due to take place later this year with the aim of implementing city wide changes by March 2026 for a period of around four months.

Cllr Nelson has said: “It’s been a long time in the making, but we’re glad to see such key progress being made in getting this off the ground.

“We want to see a thriving, prosperous Belfast city centre that is open for business and filled with activity every day of the week. Alongside extended opening hours on Sundays, we’re excited to see a number of other ideas for revitalising our city centre, such as family animation projects, support for artists and other exciting activities.

“Whilst we would have liked to have seen this agreed in time to implement a pilot this summer, we’re pleased to see progress towards an enhanced scheme and to have the opportunity for city wide consultation with interested parties.

“The protection of workers’ rights and support for smaller retailers remain at the centre of discussion around this, and ensuring that continues will be a key focus of the consultation.

“These changes have the potential to give workers, shoppers, retailers, tourists and local families alike more options and freedom of choice, as well as giving Sundays in Belfast a much needed boost.

“Alliance will continue to work hard to deliver this, and we want to thank everyone who has engaged on this so far. It was particularly pleasing to see the enthusiasm from many of those organisations crucial to enhancing the experience in our city centre, as well as broad public support.”