Donegall Place (after the fire), Belfast (September 2018)

Image: © Albert Bridge Taken: 8 Sep 2018

11.25 on a Saturday morning and not enough shoppers, visible, to fill a Glider bus. “Statement on behalf of Lord Mayor of Belfast - Update re: Bank Buildings 7 Sep 2018 “Belfast City Council, Primark, Belfast Chamber of Commerce and other city partners met this morning (Friday) to discuss their response to the recent fire at Bank Buildings." “While no lives have been lost or injuries sustained as a result of this major incident, there remains a very serious risk to the livelihoods of those working and trading nearby, and all partners are committed to continue to work together with urgency to help those affected.   “The safety of the public continues to be paramount, along with the economic resilience of the city. A City Recovery Planning Group has been set up to co-ordinate actions in immediate response to the fire, and to develop a plan for building longer term recovery in the city centre.  Councillor Hargey reiterated: “We will working proactively with all our partners to restore the city to the very vibrant place that it is and we are making progress. It is vital that as a city, we continue to rally round to support those affected by this event both directly and indirectly. “The impact of the fire will be felt for many months to come but I want to reassure our business community that they have our support and we will be with them every step of the way providing whatever support and assistance we can in the weeks and months ahead. I also want to encourage people to continue visiting our city centre and continue to rally round to support retailers. “The Primark building is in a very dangerous condition and the Council has served a dangerous structures notice. Structural assessments are ongoing by Primark and independent professionals”.  “What is immediately clear from initial assessment of the site is that there is no quick fix, and whatever solution is determined, including the option of demolition, will require a complex engineering operation. Vehicular access may be required to ensure this work is done in a comprehensive manner. “Everyone remains committed to considering every opportunity to reduce the size of the cordon and the length of time it is in place, providing the safety of the public can be guaranteed” extract. For comparison see Image

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