OGU have been working with Linen Quarter Business Improvement District to reimagine Blackstaff Square. The square has long been associated with anti-social behaviour and has been the focus of renewed attention to create a viable public space in the centre of the city.

The proposed designs demonstrate how the square might begin to successfully work throughout the day, with a reduction in vehicular traffic allowing it’s surrounding edges to be better utilised in activating the square.

A central kiosk with a frame inspired by the ‘blackened oak’ of the Blackstaff name begins to offer cover and activation during the day. The covered spaces also help to support local bars, markets and weekend events. A good square has uses throughout the day - the designs explore how this might be possible over the coming years.

There will be considerable changes to this area as the new transport hub is completed in the next few years. The designs propose hard-wearing natural stone paving to form a new public street to the relocated reserve taxi rank at the gateway to the Linen Quarter. This change provides the opportunity for a new outdoor space to the famous Crown Liquor Saloon on Great Victoria Street alongside other places to eat and drink.  Planted beds provide space for public seating and rainwater to be discharged in a sustainable way.

This is a chance for real debate about the quality and approach to public space in Belfast and deliver something which creates real change in the area.