Foreword
I’m delighted to introduce Belfast City Council’s Performance Improvement Plan 2025-2026 which is a key element of our arrangements to secure continuous improvement. Driving improvement is a priority for the council, evidenced by our new Planning and Performance Management Framework which is currently being developed. The framework is a crucial component that will help us to embed a consistent approach to how we plan, deliver, monitor and measure the impact of our services and work across the organisation.
As we move past a decade since local government reform which was implemented to enhance service delivery and improve cost effectiveness for local authorities in Northern Ireland, as a council we remain committed to improving the quality of life and environment for our ratepayers and communities over the next year and beyond.
This commitment is echoed in our new Corporate Plan 2025-2028 which is closely aligned to The Belfast Agenda, our city’s community plan. Our new Corporate Plan sets out our priorities and ambitions in terms of improving our services, supporting our people and communities, enhancing our place, growing our economy, protecting our planet, promoting a compassionate city and ensuring that we are an organisation fit to lead and serve.
Looking back on 2024-2025, we are proud of the progress that we achieved and the positive impact that the work of council staff continues to have on our residents and stakeholders. Reflecting on last year’s performance, this plan highlights some of our key achievements, such the delivery of over £14.5million of investment in two PEACE IV projects - Shankill Shared Women’s Centre and Black Mountain Shared Space.
These facilities will undoubtedly play a crucial role in connecting communities as we continue to strive towards a shared future for everyone.
We will continue to prioritise our commitment to creating a sustainable, nature positive city and championing climate action by increasing the climate resilience of council assets and services.
To improve the health and wellbeing of our residents, we will maximise our contribution through investing in and offering a diverse range of activities in parks, open spaces, play and leisure facilities. Additionally, we uphold our dedication to stimulating inclusive growth and innovation and enhancing the prosperity of our city, through supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for more and better jobs and employment.
We have supported and continue to deliver real improvements for all our citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable, underpinned by the desire to make Belfast a compassionate city, a city which is caring, safe and inclusive for all.
However, whilst much has been achieved, our continuous improvement journey is ongoing, and we remain determined not to stand still. As an organisation, we look forward to the year ahead as we strive to improve the quality of life and opportunities for all our citizens and stakeholders.
John Walsh, Chief Executive
