Our Partners

Read what our partners have to say about the new Belfast Grand Central Station.

Clare Guinness, Chief Executive, Belfast Chamber:

“The station has greatly improved our capacity, and whilst a project of this scale invariably brings some changes and challenges, in the medium to long term this will prove worthwhile. Next stages will include exciting public realm developments as part of the wider Weaver’s Cross project, which will be another important milestone as we see this investment drive transformation in our city and regional economy.”

Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, NI Chamber:

"Grand Central Station will be a long-term game-changer for Northern Ireland. Already, it has delivered an elevated passenger experience, which is a fitting welcome for tourists, commuters and those travelling to shop and enjoy day trips and entertainment

"As the development and the planned service improvements continue to be rolled out, its impact in terms of connectivity and sustainability across the region will be even more substantial.

“Investment in both the station and the wider development of Weaver’s Cross is welcome and we are incredibly encouraged by the quality of what has been unveiled to-date.  It is so important that Northern Ireland is strategically ambitious in its outlook – when completed, this development will set a new standard. As the project moves to the next stage, its full completion will be eagerly anticipated by passengers, surrounding communities and businesses alike.”

Chris McCracken, Managing Director, Linen Quarter BID:

"Belfast Grand Central Station represents a transformative investment in our city's infrastructure and has quickly established itself as a landmark gateway, not only for visitors and our thriving tourism sector but for people working, shopping and living in our city centre everyday. 

As Managing Director of Linen Quarter BID, I've seen how this world-class transport hub enhances connectivity between our city centre and the wider region. The station's strategic location creates a seamless link to the heart of Belfast, making the city centre more accessible than ever. We're observing encouraging signs of increased activity in the surrounding area, with the station serving as a catalyst for wider urban regeneration.

Looking ahead, the planned public realm developments at Weavers Cross will further elevate this transformation, creating vibrant spaces that will change how people experience our city.

This isn't just about transportation - it's about reimagining Belfast's future and creating new opportunities for businesses, workers, and visitors to thrive in an increasingly connected city."

Noyona Chundur, Chief Executive, Consumer Council for Northern Ireland:

“Since opening in Autumn 2024, Belfast Grand Central Station has provided an enhanced experience for consumers. The integration of bus and rail services, along with improvements such as the introduction of hourly cross-border rail services, helps to address key consumer priorities of increased choice, convenience, and greater accessibility. 

With increased capacity, the new facility sets the tone for the future of decarbonising our transport system, enabling consumers to choose public transport more often. We look forward to the completion of the next phase of the project, which will deliver further improvements in accessibility and connectivity with the active travel network. These include an assistance dog spending area, cycle parking with provision for accessible and non-standard cycles, and accessible parking bays with larger spaces for Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles.”

Gerry Lennon, Chief Excutive, Visit Belfast: 

"Belfast Grand Central Station is a game-changer for our city, strengthening our position as a world class destination for tourism and business.  

In 2023 there was a 46% increase in visitors from the Republic of Ireland and now, with 15 daily train departures from Dublin, Belfast is more accessible than ever for day trips and weekend stays from one of our strongest markets.    

Belfast is gateway to Northern Ireland and this impressive, state-of-the-art transport hub, with a capacity to handle around 20 million passenger journeys a year, transforms our connectivity and our ability to encourage visitors to explore more and stay longer, driving economic growth throughout the entire region.   

This vital investment in our transport links supports Visit Belfast’s strategic commitment to drive sustainable tourism, to promoting more sustainable travel choices for visitors, realising the city and region’s ambition to become a sustainable economy.” 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray:

“Belfast Grand Central Station is already delivering positive results, bringing more cross-border visitors into our city and providing more frequent services for commuters.

“The building’s striking design reflects ambitions to grow Belfast as a confident, connected and sustainable city which recognises the key role of public transport and supports the shift away from car use and towards other alternatives.

“And, through the exciting public realm plans for the next phase of development, the station’s potential to be a catalyst for the physical, economic and social regeneration in this part of Belfast will also begin to take shape, bringing new opportunities for jobs, housing and leisure use.”

Siobhan Casey, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland:

"I am delighted to see the continued development of Belfast Grand Central Station and the surrounding Weavers Cross site. This project is set to have a positive impact on our ageing population, as many older people rely on public transport to stay connected and maintain their independence. With a focus on accessible travel, the redevelopments ensure older people can travel with confidence, access essential services, and enjoy healthier, more active lives for longer.

The project reflects a forward-thinking approach to creating a more inclusive, age-friendly Belfast, where older people can thrive and fully participate in society. Its continued progress is an important step toward a vibrant city where older people can age well."

Matthew Hall, Chief Executive, Belfast City Airport:

Since opening six months ago, Belfast Grand Central Station has delivered significant improvements to the city’s transport network.

“The enhanced connectivity and efficiency it provides are already providing clear benefits to both commuters and visitors.

"As a key regional gateway, Belfast City Airport is pleased to support the next phase of development, which contributes to the broader goal of strengthening Northern Ireland’s transport links and making travel to and from Belfast more accessible for all.”