The Alliance Party has taken the lead in ensuring plans are put in place to revitalise Belfast city centre, after a call from Councillor Michael Long to create a specialised cross-party working group received unanimous support.

Speaking after Belfast City Council agreed to immediately create a revitalisation committee - to include Councillors, statutory agencies and Government Departments - Michael said the move “was essential” in dealing with the growing list of problems facing the city centre.

He added: “Belfast has always been a welcoming city, buzzing with visitors across the world. Yet sadly, negative headlines of rundown buildings, lack of cleaning and a generally downtrodden vibe is what the city is becoming known for.

“We must and can do better. While Belfast City Council is already progressing ways to ensure our city is cleaner, it falls on all of us to build a revitalised Belfast, capable to delivering world-class facilities for all those living, working and visiting here.

“A joined-up approach, with Council, statutory agencies and Government Departments working together, will ensure we can deliver these aims, with my vision also seeing a roll out of support for businesses and tourism and to compassionately deal with the homeless and growing drug issues on the streets.

“I’m delighted to see this plan receive unanimous support across the chamber and look forward to working as part of team with the aim of delivering the best version of Belfast."