Belfast traffic: More taxis to be allowed in bus lanes

The infrastructure minister said his department has “worked closely” with public transport operator Translink “to manage traffic flow”.

But O’Dowd said “some level of disruption is unavoidable while these important works are carried out”.

“In order to alleviate some of the disruption, and to support the taxi industry, I have asked my officials to urgently bring forward proposals which will permit Class A and Class C taxis to use certain bus lanes in the vicinity of the works,” he said.

“My department will be taking forward the necessary legislative arrangements as quickly as possible and I will announce further details on the commencement of the pilot in the near future.”

Last month, the minister defended his department following complaints of roadworks causing traffic congestion in Belfast.

He acknowledged there had been issues, but said those in rural areas would be “aghast that people are complaining” about multi-million-pound investments.