23rd July 2025
Belfast One BID (Business Improvement District) is proud to unveil “OUR CITY”, a bold new mural spanning the 20-metre wide façade of a previously grey, ageing building on Royal Avenue. As part of the “A Bolder Vision for Belfast” placemaking initiative, this large-scale artwork is adding to the transformation of the city centre, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and vibrancy.
The design, curated through a collaborative approach between the Belfast One team and local artist Alana McDowell, features flowing forms, a bright palette, and a central message of unity, “OUR CITY”, incorporating an abstract nod to Belfast’s iconic yellow Harland & Wolff gantry cranes. The swirling lines evoke the city’s creativity, energy, and ongoing regeneration.
Martina Connolly, CEO of Belfast One BID, highlights the significance of taking action now to help revive this side of the city centre.
“Located at the heart of the city centre, Royal Avenue plays a central role in major events such as Belfast’s Pride Parade and the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil. The introduction of this artwork has had an immediate, positive impact bringing colour, vibrancy, and fun to the area. Initiatives like this are widely recognised in helping to reduce antisocial behaviour by fostering a more welcoming and cared-for environment for people in Belfast city centre.”
“It is our understanding that long-term regeneration efforts won’t begin for another 12–24 months, the introduction of this piece of art, will have a positive effect bringing a joyful mood to the area. This mural signals future transformation and is helping to reclaim one of the city’s most important streets,” Ms Connolly continues.
While Royal Avenue is set to benefit from long-term public realm improvements and future investment, integration into Belfast’s Northwest glider, persistent challenges of this key area in our civic spine remain in the meantime.
Belfast One is actively stepping in to tackle longstanding challenges on Royal Avenue through a coordinated, practical placemaking approach. In partnership with agencies including Belfast City Council and the Department for Infrastructure, Belfast One is addressing derelict buildings, poor lighting, broken pavements, obstructive street furniture, blocked drains, inadequate signage, and general neglect. The Belfast One BID regularly deploys its Clean Team, removing graffiti and gum, power-washing surfaces, and maintaining cleanliness, to help to lift the visual environment.
Alongside these efforts, Belfast One is working with local artists, universities, and young people to bring creativity and community voice into public spaces through temporary activations and street art. These interventions offer visible improvements now, ahead of long-term regeneration, ensuring Royal Avenue is safer, more welcoming, and vibrant in the meantime.
Royal Avenue is already witnessing positive change with new arrivals including TK Maxx, Haymarket, and Starbucks as well as a 22% increase in footfall year-to-date, boosted by rising student numbers and local events. The Belfast sign, currently situated outside CastleCourt, has become a popular photo spot for visitors.
The forthcoming Belfast Stories cultural landmark, scheduled around 2029, promises further cultural investment to the north end of the street.
More information on Belfast One’s initiatives here.
