Local residents, city centre workers, and shoppers will be aware that Montgomery Street in Belfast city centre has been temporarily closed to pedestrians since July 2025. This important precautionary measure was taken to ensure public safety for everyone.
The closure stems from potential issues identified with some internal columns within the Victoria Square apartments, specifically one located close to Montgomery Street. Following information received regarding safety concerns, Building Control surveyors, along with advice from an independent chartered engineer, assessed the situation, leading to the decision to close the street.
It's important to clarify that this closure is focused solely on the pedestrianised section of Montgomery Street. There is no information to suggest that a similar closure of Chichester Street or any other wider area is necessary, nor is there any indication of a broader risk to pedestrians or other buildings in the vicinity.
We understand that an ongoing closure, particularly as we head towards the busy Christmas period, can cause inconvenience and concern for businesses and individuals alike. Officials have been liaising with affected businesses, including those in Erskine House, and are committed to working 'at pace' with all parties involved in the ongoing legal proceedings to reopen Montgomery Street as swiftly as possible.
While ensuring building safety is ultimately the responsibility of individual property owners, the council has powers to act on safety concerns. They want to reassure everyone that public safety is taken extremely seriously and the July closure was a proactive step based on thorough assessment.
This remains a complex situation due to ongoing civil proceedings, meaning some information cannot be publicly disclosed. However, officers will continue to liaise with stakeholders and promise to provide further updates as soon as it is possible to do so.