HomeQuality of life in Belfast
As well as improve our
economy, job prospects and regeneration of the city, we want to create a successful and vibrant city where people want to live.Quality factors are important to people living in Belfast, they include things like clean streets, availability of green spaces, safer and healthier environment, level of pollution and the perception of crime, amongst others.
House prices
Like all parts of the UK, house prices increased significantly in Belfast in the last decade as a result of the housing boom, but have come down in value since the peak of the boom in 2007.The average house price in Belfast is still almost double the price levels of 2000 however, standing at around £176,000 (third quarter 2009).
The environment
The environment affects many aspects of quality of life and helps determine the attractiveness of the city to both visitors and residents.In Belfast there are over 2,000 acres of parkland and nature reserves which include two city parks, nine district parks, 77 playgrounds, 36 local parks, five country parks and Belfast Zoo.
A lot of the parks are home to buildings of huge cultural heritage such as Belfast Castle, Malone House and the Palm House, in Botanic Gardens.
Community safety and crime
Crime in Northern Ireland remains low in comparison to other UK cities.A total of 108,468 offences were recorded during 2007-08 which is 10.5% lower than the previous year. Between 2003-04 and 2008-09, the crime rate in Belfast fell by around 15%.
Cultural heritage
Belfast is recognised as
having a vibrant, revitalised
cultural life. The growing
energy within the culture
and arts sector is clear
to see.
There are eight
major annual festivals, key
concert and performance
venues, and award winning
theatres. In the past decade,
Belfast’s culture has seen the arrival
of a new generation of
visitor attractions, hotels,
restaurants and bars.
We have 1,040
listed buildings, 13 designated
areas of conservation and
20 designated areas of
townscape character. The proud heritage
and history of Belfast is
important and is celebrated
through the eight museums
and heritage centres across
the city.
The
iconic Titanic Signature
Project , pays respect to the craftsmanship
and mastery of the famous
ship. It will open in 2012, to
coincide with the centenary
of the ship’s launch.
The
newly defined Cathedral
Quarter and Titanic Quarter
have derived their strong
identity from their rich
traditional heritage. Belfast
is punctuated by beautiful
Victorian and Edwardian
buildings which continue
to enhance the lives of
today’s citizens with a rich
architectural heritage.
Belfast has also produced some
internationally renowned
artists such as Grammy
award winner Van Morrison,
pianist Barry Douglas and
Oscar nominated Kenneth
Branagh.
Festivals
Over half a million people participate in the 55 festivals all over the city, including Queen’s University’s annual Belfast Festival, the Belfast Film Festival, the Titanic Festival and Opera in the Gardens in Botanic Gardens.The St Patrick’s Day festival in March offers a carnival atmosphere for all the family with a wonderful and colourful carnival parade dancing through the city centre streets.
Belfast also plays host to the biggest Orange parade on 12 July every year which attracts tens of thousands of participants and spectators.
More information on these festivals and events can be found at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/events
