Boyne Bridge on Sandy Row Belfast: All demolition work halted with diggers silent since last week

The Sandy Row community in south Belfast has been angered at demolition of the bridge - which they see as part of their identity.

However the Department for Infrastructure (DFI) says it must be removed to give traffic access to the new Grand Central Bus Station nearby.

Some superficial work has already been carried out in removing some of the tarmac from the bridge.

However, according to stakeholders, diggers stopped work last Thursday and have done no further work since.

John Anderson of Ulster Architectural Heritage told the News Letter that the contractor will not proceed as the required paperwork is not complete.

In particular, DFI has previously conceded to the News Letter his claim that required traffic mitigation plans have not been implemented while demolishing the bridge - a key arterial route through Sandy Row. Local business reports a 30% slump in trade as a result.

Ben Allen, who runs TA Allen Furniture on Sandy Row, confirmed that no demolition has taken place since Thursday.

"I have seen an aerial photograph on Facebook, where you can see where they've taken some tarmac away, but the bridge itself is fine," he said.

The only demolition has been akin to regular maintenance work “which is amazing” he said.

Asked if demolition work has stopped due to breaches of planning conditions, Translink avoided the question.

A spokesperson replied: “Dismantlement of the bridge has commenced, which will see key elements of the bridge re-purposed in the new civic space, Saltwater Square.

“Translink continues to collaborate closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment with each phase of the complex planning processes.

“The dismantling work is expected to be completed in January”.

Last Wednesday the News Letter put detailed claims by Mr Anderson that the bus station and associated work is in breach of 11 planning conditions.

He said: "The planning conditions actually say the bus station should not be open at all. For example, there is no passenger car park and no staff car park.

"The bus stands are not fully operational, with important routes scattered through the city."

DFI has declined to comment on his claims over six days.