As we close the chapter on 2024, it’s fitting to reflect on the achievements and challenges that have defined the past 12 months for Belfast’s business community.
The return of the Stormont Assembly brought a renewed sense of hope, ending a prolonged period where the economy seemed to be in drift mode. Businesses across all sectors welcomed the restoration of a functioning government, recognising it as a vital first step towards addressing the economic challenges facing our region.
But a functioning Assembly must also be an effective one. This initial optimism has been tempered as ministers are rightly being held to account to deliver the public services that provide the essential foundation for businesses to thrive.
Businesses need a strategic, well-coordinated approach to create the environment required for long-term success, and Belfast Chamber is dedicated to playing our part.
One of our standout achievements in 2024 was the progress made in tackling traffic congestion in Belfast city centre. Through dedicated lobbying and collaboration with the Department for Infrastructure, we successfully championed measures to ease congestion and improve the flow of people and goods throughout the city.
But challenges remain. Belfast is a city of immense potential, yet its infrastructure often lags behind what is needed to support its growth. From the need for cleaner streets and public spaces, to more efficient transportation systems and city centre housing, these are issues that demand continued investment and collaboration.
The Chamber remains steadfast in our call for a more strategic, long-term approach to city development - one that ensures Belfast remains attractive to businesses, investors, and tourists alike.
We celebrated a significant uplift in membership in 2024, a testament to the strength and value of our collective voice, and Belfast Chamber also launched a bold new strategy, reinvigorated our board, welcomed 12 new council members, and moved to a new office space.
Engaging, connecting, and informing are at the heart of the Chamber’s mission. Over the course of 2024, we hosted 25 high-impact events that brought together Belfast’s vibrant business community. These events ranged from networking opportunities to informative panels and conferences, all designed to drive collaboration and success across the city and Northern Ireland.
As we enter 2025, our vision for Belfast is clear = we want to see the development of a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming city. Achieving this vision will require deeper collaboration across government, council, and business.
Regeneration and public realm projects remain at the core of our advocacy efforts. Continued investment in these areas will not only boost Belfast’s appeal but also create a ripple effect of economic and social benefits.
The road ahead is filled with opportunities and the Chamber is well-positioned to play a leading role in shaping Belfast’s future. Collaboration will be key. As we’ve seen in 2024, when businesses, government, and civic organisations align their efforts, the results can be transformative.
Together, we can build a city that not only meets the challenges of today but also anticipates the needs of tomorrow. Belfast’s potential is boundless, and with continued investment, and innovation, we can ensure our city remains a beacon of opportunity and success for years to come.
- Clare Guinness is chief executive of Belfast Chamber of Commerce
