Lower Chichester Street in Belfast City Centre runs in front of the Royal Courts of Justice and alongside the recently constructed Laganside Magistrates Court and the Bar Library. The street was closed to traffic as a security measure in the 1980’s, but remained open to pedestrian access and court traffic.

Lower Chichester Street forms part of the main access from the City Hall to the Waterfront Hall and River Lagan and is therefore a key linkage in downtown Belfast. However, security measures created a visual barrier.

Scott Wilson was commissioned to look at reopening the street, with the possibility of incorporating bus access. The reopening of the street marks yet another significant stage in Belfast’s regeneration. The aim of this prestigious project is to improve the overall attractiveness of this important route. Pedestrian experiences are enhanced with raised formal grass areas, enclosed by box hedging to divide pedestrians from the new dedicated bus route. The open space, with elegant trees, offers a defined character to the busy street that has constant movement linking the Court buildings and now offers improved pedestrian access between Lanyon Place and the City Centre. Quality materials have been used throughout to complement the impressive historic and new buildings along the street. Caithness stone and decorative lighting provide a welcoming atmosphere.