is reaching out to residents, visitors, and local businesses across the city, including here in North Belfast, to gather feedback on a significant proposal: extending Sunday trading hours for larger shops.
Currently, under Northern Ireland law, shops with a floor space greater than 280 square metres are generally only allowed to open from 1 pm to 6 pm on Sundays. Smaller stores, however, already have the freedom to set their own opening hours. The council is exploring the option of designating Belfast as a 'holiday resort' – a status that would allow these larger shops to open earlier or for longer on up to 18 Sundays between March 1 and September 30 each year, excluding Easter Sunday.
This move has been agreed in principle by elected members and is now subject to public consultation. If approved, it is anticipated that Sunday, July 5, 2026, could be the first date when larger retailers would have the option to open earlier or for longer, with the scheme running until September 27, 2026. Stores wishing to utilise these extended hours would need to notify the council of their chosen dates.
Councillor Natasha Brennan, Chair of the council's Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, shared her perspective: 'Extending Sunday opening hours during the 'holiday period' would enable us to compete with other cities, boost visitor and tourism spending, add greater vibrancy to the city, and provide additional trading opportunities for retailers. It's also a chance to make our city centre more family-friendly, especially given that many hotels are busy on Saturday nights, yet Sunday mornings currently see limited attractions beyond St George's Market.'
She also emphasised the importance of hearing from everyone: 'The aim of this consultation is to ensure as many views as possible are captured and taken on board. We recognise that Sunday remains an important day for worship and rest for many people, including those working in the retail sector, so we warmly welcome views from faith groups and individuals as part of this consultation.'
Your feedback is vital to help shape this decision. You can share your views by Wednesday, May 13, 2026, via the council's Your Say Belfast engagement platform at yoursay./sunday-openings. All feedback will be considered by elected members before a final decision is made, anticipated by June 2026.