Cycle racks to be built in Belfast city centre

The bicycle racks will be placed around Belfast

Cycle racks are to be installed across Belfast city centre as part of a regeneration project.

There are 50 racks planned at a cost of £15,000 as part of the £28m Streets Ahead Project.

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said they wanted more people to use bicycles as their main means of transport around the city.

"Taking traffic out of the city centre will make a safer, hassle free area for pedestrians and cyclists," she said.

"The erection of new cycle racks will further promote this."

The minister helped launch the new cycle racks, along with sustainable transport charity Sustrans and DRD Roads Service.

Steven Patterson, from Sustrans, said cycling would help cut down air pollution.

"Convenient cycle parking located outside shops is very important so traders can see the economic benefits that cyclists bring to a city," he said.

"We commend DSD and their designers for consulting with users on where the cycle stands should be located."