Belfast News
News
Belfast City Council activates emergency flood defenses as the River Lagan bursts its banks, inundating the Quarter and forcing road closures. Meanwhile, the £450m Belfast Central Station project reaches 75% completion, on track for its March 2026 opening.
Business News
Harland & Wolff secures a £300m contract to build two new ferries, creating 400 shipyard jobs. The Victoria Square shopping centre reports 92% occupancy after its luxury retail expansion, while local fintech firm Kainos announces plans to add 200 tech jobs at its Belfast HQ.
Economic News
Belfast's economy grew by 4.2% last quarter - the fastest in Northern Ireland - driven by advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity sectors. The city centre vacancy rate has fallen to 14%, though concerns remain about rising commercial rents. Unemployment stands at 2.8%, below the UK average.
Political News
Stormont faces deadlock over the CPark redevelopment, with costs now estimated at £340m. The controversial Belfast Rapid Transit expansion gets greenlit despite objections from some local businesses.
Election News
With Westminster elections approaching, Belfast's constituencies (North, South, East, West) show Sinn Féin and DUP maintaining strongholds, though Alliance Party gains in mixed areas. Key issues include NHS waiting lists and the proposed United Ireland referendum.
Employment News
The new Belfast Cyber Security creates 150 high-tech positions. Spirit AeroSystems recruits 100 aerospace engineers, while hospitality businesses report staffing challenges ahead of peak tourist season.
Business News
Shares in Belfast-based Almac Group rise 7% after major pharmaceutical contract wins. Bombardier Belfast sees shares dip 3% amid global aerospace sector volatility.
Forecast
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Wednesday (18 June): Heavy rain, 16°C
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Thursday: Showers, 15°C
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Friday: Cloudy, 17°C
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Saturday: Sunny intervals, 18°C
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Sunday: Light rain, 16°C
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Monday: Partly cloudy, 19°C
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Tuesday: Warm sunshine, 21°C
Entertainment News
Belsonic Music Festival kicks off this weekend with rs Noel Gallagher and Dua Lipa. The Opera House announces its autumn season, including a new play about Belfast's shipbuilding heritage.
Upcoming Events in Belfast
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Belfast Maritime Festival (21-23 June) - Titanic Quarter
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Belfast Pride (26 July - 4 August) - Early events begin
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Belfast International Arts Festival (24 June - 7 July)
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CS Lewis Festival (22-25 June) - East Belfast
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Outdoor Cinema: Oppenheimer (26 June, Botanic Gardens)
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Ulster Rugby Summer Camp (28 June - 2 July) - Kingspan Stadium
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Belfast Mela (3 August) - Ormeau Park
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Titanic Quarter Food Festival (29-30 June)
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Belfast TradFest (1-7 July) - Traditional music across the city
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Belfast Film Festival (15-23 November) - Early bird tickets on sale
Key Features:
⚓ Tracking Belfast's shipbuilding renaissance
���� Tech Focus: Cybersecurity sector growth
����️ town Spotlight: C Park developments
���� Cultural Capital: Summer festival lineup
For breaking updates follow Belfast Live on social media.
Transport Alert: Temporary closure of Lagan Weir footbridge until 21 June for flood damage repairs.
Editor's Note: This edition highlights:
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Belfast's flood response
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The city's economic resurgence
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Political tensions at Stormont
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Major summer cultural events
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