St Pat’s gig saved after parade move

BELFAST’S St Patrick’s Day parade could be re-routed in a bid to save the big day’s concert.

The gig was facing the axe after City Hall planners raised safety concerns.

However, last night councillors agreed to reassess how the celebrations are run with the parade’s route and timing possibly being changed to stop too many people coming together at Custom House Square.

The start time of the gig may also be altered.

Alliance councillor Emmet Mcdonoughbrown said an “amicable outcome” was reached.

He added: “There was no need for a vote. It was agreed planners should re-organise things to address health and safety concerns. It’s about timing and where the parade starts and ends.”

Sinn Fein and the SDLP had been set to resist any attempt to amend the 2018 celebrations to a paradeonly event.

As next year’s event falls on a Saturday, even more revellers are expected.