Belfast tunnels set for transformation

A network of tunnels running under Belfast City Centre is set for a £2.6m regeneration.

The Lanyon Tunnels that run beneath East Bridge Street have lain derelict for nearly 70 years

Now, thanks to a £1.3m boost from the Northern Ireland Executive's Social Investment Fund (SIF) and support from Belfast City Council, the tunnels will be developed to provide two childcare facilities, commercial units and a thoroughfare between the Markets area and city centre.

Junior Minister Megan Fearon has welcomed the employment opportunities the project will bring.

Visiting the site, the Sinn Féin MLA said it would "help regenerate this historically significant site, benefitting the area economically and socially".

She said it would have "long-lasting social benefits for those who need it most and local people and local needs are at the heart of it".

Fellow Junior Minister, the DUP's Alastair Ross, said the project was one of 69 similar schemes aiming to improve the lives of people living in deprivation.

He congratulated the Market Development Association for its "determination and hard work in bringing their vision to a reality".