Laganside - A major  success for Urban Regeneration

Well if you can’t blow your own trumpet or vuvuzela what can you do?

I don’t apologise for this self indulgent pride that one takes from doing a good job very well, but the management of the River Lagan is one thing this Department can shout about. More so in recent weeks and in the weeks to come.

Laganside has become so popular that a few weeks ago a programme was shown on television reminding us of the wildlife around Belfast and the River Lagan in particular. You may remember that I covered this in one of my first special features’ Tales from the riverbank’ when I wrote about the leisurely morning I spent on the Lagan in the company of the staff, Harry the heron and Sammy the seal as the rest of Belfast’s population busied itself in frustration, in rush hour traffic on the roads above.

Aerial photographs of the area are stunning and makes one sit back in awe wondering if this is really how our city looks from the sky. The Obel Tower stretches towards the heavens as the landmark at the mouth of the Lagan and where the Lagan Weir nestles below.

Several weeks ago our newly installed DSD Minister, Alex Attwood, took an adventurous ride, no not on the Duck Tour, but on a more adrenalin pumped vehicle, a Zapcat. It was incredible to see this professional show come to town. Numerous media were present to interview the Minister.  This was a perfect opportunity to show the people of Northern Ireland how much things have improved at the river, and how valuable the Lagan is to our city as an attraction.

As our summer kicks in more events are planned for the River Lagan. Last Saturday many people zip wired across the Lagan in aid of charity. It took place in the shadow of the Obel Tower down at the Lagan Weir itself. This was the start of a programme of events to take place in the next few months organized by various companies and charities who make use of the facility.

Here is a brief guide to what’s on in the coming months. Details are also available on the DSD website (Urban Regeneration / Events)

Most, if not all of these events are free. Some charities may collect donations from those who can afford to give. The most important thing is that the people visiting the Lagan area will have something to enjoy during the summer.

Don’t forget that before moving on to pastures new, Minister Ritchie launched the Duck Boat Tours that take you sightseeing by road and river so you too can enjoy the peace and tranquility of floating along the River Lagan away from the busy traffic.

JD