Foreword
I'm pleased to introduce Belfast City Council’s Performance Improvement Plan 2026-2027 which sets out our ongoing commitment to deliver continuous improvement as an organisation and for the people of Belfast.
In the wake of significant challenges facing our society, from geopolitical instability to the cost-of-living crisis, we recognise our role and duty to ensure that we can show leadership and support to people, communities and stakeholders across the city.
As a council, delivering improvement is non-negotiable. From our elected members, corporate management team and throughout our talented workforce, it is the responsibility of everyone to deliver continuous improvement. This is reflected in our new emerging Planning and Performance Management Framework which is a critical tool that will embed a consistent, streamlined approach to planning and performance management throughout the organisation.
I reflect proudly on our performance and what we have achieved over the last 12 months. In relation to our Performance Improvement Plan 2025-2026, I am delighted that we were able to achieve our six improvement objectives. Particular highlights include: far exceeding our target in terms of customer satisfaction levels with customer hub contacts, and the extension of our highly successful Vacant to Vibrant intervention which supported the transformation of 24 previously derelict properties and brought them back into economic use for local businesses across Belfast.
We progressed 220 projects through our Physical Programme, improving existing facilities whilst developing new and transformative facilities within our communities.
In addition, we were delighted to secure Belfast as host of the Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture, for the first time from 2 to 9 August 2026. We look forward to welcoming 800,000 people to the city which will provide huge economic, social and cultural benefits for the city.
Looking ahead, we will continue to focus on ensuring that we can deliver effective and efficient services that demonstrate value for money. We will concentrate on delivering investment within the city and our communities to improve the quality of life for all our residents.
Delivering on our climate commitments remains an important priority for the council as we play our part in protecting the planet. We will also work to ensure that Belfast’s economy can grow and prosper through business support and creating more and better jobs.
Finally, we will continue to support those most in need across the city to ensure that Belfast is a safe, inclusive and welcoming place for everyone – ensuring no one is left behind.
John Walsh, Chief Executive
