Schools situated close to Translink’s Weavers Cross development site have come together to participate in a creative art workshop inspired by the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.
Pupils from St Joseph’s PS (Grosvenor Road), Blythefield PS (Sandy Row) and Donegall Road PS were given exclusive ‘behind the scenes’ access to the NI Executive flagship project site in Belfast City Centre which will include delivery of the largest modern integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland – Belfast Grand Central Station.
The event included a visit to the construction site viewing gallery to give pupils an understanding of the scale and significance of the development. Workshops facilitated by WheelWorks Art explored the themes of connectivity, people, place and climate to create a ‘25-year city vision’ collage.
Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, said: “Belfast Grand Central Station and the surrounding Weavers Cross city neighbourhood will play a huge role in the lives of young people here, a symbol of progress and opportunity.
“Public transport keeps people connected to all parts of the city and beyond, supporting economic, environmental and social wellbeing. And over the past 25 years there’s been numerous developments in terms of services, people, vehicles, facilities, ticketing and technology.
“But as we look back to celebrate progress since the Good Friday Agreement, it’s also an opportunity to look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead, especially for younger people and to understand their hopes and aspirations for the city over the next 25 years.
“We hope all our young visitors are inspired by their journey of discovery today, finding out about this impressive new facility that will play such a central role in how they travel in the future, tackling the climate emergency and improving air quality by delivering sustainable transport options for decades to come.” said Chris.
Farrah Chowdhury, CEO of Wheelworks Arts (WWA) said:
“Wheelworks are delighted and proud to be part of this event that marks the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement and delivering this bespoke creative workshop experience with Translink. Since 1995, WWA have used the creative arts to build community cohesion, good relations and understanding between children and young people across Northern Ireland.
“Working with the local school children on this project – who will see the full benefit of the Weavers Cross development to Belfast and the whole of Northern Ireland – further cements the need for even more integration and connections to ensure our joint futures. There is no better way to start this journey than with young people using their imaginations and enthusiasm.”
The new Belfast Grand Central Station will sit at the heart of the Weavers Cross development and will be a catalyst for regeneration in the area. It will be an important gateway to Belfast as a modern, confident and progressive city, stimulating economic opportunities for the city and Northern Ireland.
