During a special meeting of the Strategic Policy and Resources Committee earlier today (28 April), a report detailing how the pilot should be set up was discussed and a decision reached to agree to run the scheme.

This will be ratified at full council on Thursday night (1 May).

Cllr Nelson has said: “After years of discussion and extensive consultation with those positioned right across the spectrum of opinion on extending Sunday trading hours, I’m delighted to see this pilot scheme be agreed.

“We want to see a thriving, prosperous Belfast city centre that is open for business and filled with activity every day of the week. The launch of this scheme, alongside the exploration of other initiatives such as public transport incentives, family animation and support for an artists market, represents a step forward in our efforts to create more jobs, increase footfall for our local businesses, and further revitalise our city centre.

“The protection of workers’ rights, and support for smaller retailers, remains at the centre of considerations around any proposed change to trading hours. In fact, the pilot scheme will allow us to properly assess all the impacts and benefits, delivering solid evidence we can use in making any future decisions.

“We want to give shoppers, tourists, families and businesses alike more freedom of choice, and help create a city centre that is thriving and vibrant every day of the week. We’re excited for the potential this pilot possesses, and look forward to seeing it ratified at full council and fully rolled out in the future.”