More than 300 dual language signs for Gaeltacht Quarter are set for approval

Plans set to go ahead despite some criticism from DUP councillors

MORE than 300 streets in Belfast’s Gaeltacht Quarter are set to get dual language street signs.

It follows a proposal for the erection of these signs, which was agreed by Belfast City Council’s (BCC) strategic policy and resources committee in October of last year, despite some criticism from DUP members.

Now a consultation on the plans has been carried out and councillors will be asked to give their final approval on Friday.

The Gaeltacht Quarter in west Belfast covers an area over 417 streets, 108 of which already have dual language signs.

Sinn Fein proposed last year that BCC would save thousands of pounds by designating the streets in the Gaeltacht Quarter by public, rather than surveying each street individually where an overwhelming majority would be in favour of Irish street signs.

Letters were subsequently issued to all affected residents via a mail drop.

The letters advised the resident about the dual language sign proposals and gave them the opportunity to object if they so wished. If 15% or more objected, the signs wouldn’t go ahead.

A total of 21 objections covering 16 individual streets were received, with one street (Clovelly Street) meeting the 15% threshold. Following the consultation process, 301 streets are to have the signage erected.

According to a council briefing document prepared for members of the strategic policy and resources committee: “Work and discussions are ongoing between staff within Property and Projects and Building Control to consider the next part of the project, to erect the nameplates.

“The proposal is to follow the existing process and utilise the current street signage contract and contractor.

“Whilst the project will be managed by Property and Projects, the Building Control Service will work in conjunction with the project manager to provide the necessary guidance, assistance and oversight.

“This may also require a resource to be provided by the Building Control Service to carry out some of the duties associated with the project.”

The cost of erecting the signs is expected to be in the region of £135,000.

SDLP councillor Paul Doherty, who is based in west Belfast, said it is “fantastic at last” that the signs are set to go ahead and paid tribute to those who have campaigned for the move for years.

“The Gaeltacht Quarter is absolutely thriving and has come on leaps and bounds in recent years,” he added.

“It does a great job of making the Irish language accessible and attracts a significant number of tourists to this part of our city. These new signs will only enhance the area and contribute to the resurgence of the Irish language in Belfast. ' I would urge every councillor to back these proposals, the Irish language is part of our shared culture, history and heritage and contributes positively to our society. Those living in the quarter have been clear that they back these new signs and they will be warmly received by everyone in west Belfast.”

Speaking when the plans were decided last October, some DUP representatives voiced concern, but in the end did not oppose them formally.

DUP councillor Ian Mclaughlin said he had “grave concerns” about the erection of dual-language signage around the Springfield Road area.

“This signage, whether we admit it or not, demarcates social lines across this city,” he added.

“It will exclude a part of west Belfast. It is basically republican west Belfast within that boundary, and it will be set apart from the rest of the city.”