UP2030 Belfast

UP2030 Belfast project

Belfast was one of 11 European pilot cities in the Horizon Europe-funded UP2030 programme, which supported cities to accelerate transition to climate neutrality through urban planning, innovation and collaboration. 

Over three years, Belfast worked alongside cities including Lisbon, Milan and Rotterdam to explore how net zero neighbourhoods can be planned, delivered and scaled across cities. 

The project concluded with the publication of Belfast's Net Zero Neighbourhood Framework.

Belfast Net Zero Neighbourhood Framework

The framework explores what a just and place-based transition to net zero looks like for neighbourhoods. We designed the framework as a practical guide for planners, policymakers, communities, developers and regeneration practitioners in Belfast and beyond. 

This is a practical roadmap for creating healthier, greener and lower-carbon neighbourhoods. Developed through extensive engagement with communities, stakeholders and technical experts, the framework demonstrates how climate action can be integrated into neighbourhood planning while improving quality of life for local people.

The framework focuses on Belfast's Inner South pilot area, including the Linen Quarter and surrounding communities of the Market, Donegall Pass, Sandy Row and Barrack Street. The pilot provided an opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with achieving net zero across a diverse urban area comprising residential neighbourhoods, business districts, transport corridors and public spaces.

The work identified three priority themes that can deliver the greatest impact in reducing emissions while creating more liveable neighbourhoods:

• retrofit
• active travel
• greening

Retrofit

This involves improving the energy efficiency and performance of homes, businesses and public buildings to reduce carbon emissions, lower energy costs and improve comfort.

Active travel

This involves creating safer and more attractive conditions for walking, wheeling and cycling, helping to reduce car dependency while improving health and connectivity. 

Greening

This involves expanding green infrastructure and nature-based solutions to support climate resilience, biodiversity, healthier places and improved wellbeing. 

A framework for future regeneration

The framework provides a scalable model that can inform future regeneration projects across Belfast. It demonstrates how climate action can be embedded into area planning, placemaking and investment decisions, ensuring that communities are at the centre of the transition to a net zero city. 

It also supports the ambitions set out in Belfast's wider climate and regeneration strategies, helping to create neighbourhoods that are resilient, inclusive and prepared for future environmental, economic and social challenges.

For more information about UP2030 Belfast, contact [email protected].