Timeline
History was written here.
And as Weavers Cross adds a new chapter, we reference a few key dates that contributed to the growth and development of our city.
1640s
Bridge built to span the River Blackstaff and facilitate travel to Lisburn and beyond. First known as the Great Bridge and then coming to be known as Saltwater Bridge.
1700s
French and Dutch Huguenots bring their weaving skills to Ireland, establishing huge linen mills in locations including Weavers Cross.
1820
Great Victoria Street is laid out (originally called New Dublin Road).
1839
Ulster Railway Company opens Belfast-Lisburn line.
1848
Railway station on Victoria Street is rebuilt.
1855
Continuous track between Belfast and Dublin is completed.
1875
Belfast Central Railway opens.
1940
Belfast, a heavy engineering centre, is badly damaged in the Blitz.
1964
Belfast Urban motorway/Westlink is proposed.
1983
Westlink is finally built.
1995
Great Victoria Street Station opens.
2024
Belfast Grand Central Station opens.
2025
Weavers Cross development sites become available.