A new Compass Rose wayfinding feature has been unveiled at Donegall Quay, located in front of Belfast’s Big Fish sculpture. The installation is part of Maritime Belfast Trust’s ongoing efforts to revitalise the city’s historic waterfront. Supported by Tourism NI and the Department for Communities, this initiative is transforming Belfast’s waterfront into a vibrant, connected space for people who live, work and visit the area.
The bespoke Compass Rose, crafted from contrasting natural stone pavers and brass insets, stands as a striking landmark and serves as a vital navigation tool for those exploring the area. It is designed to guide visitors toward key attractions along the Maritime Mile, encouraging further exploration of Belfast’s rich maritime heritage and enhancing the overall waterfront experience.
Judith Webb, Product Development Manager at Maritime Belfast Trust, commented, “We are excited to see the installation of this new wayfinding feature, which aligns with the ambitions of the ‘Embracing the Belfast Waterfront Promenade Framework’ which was launched in December 2023. This framework marks the beginning of a longer-term vision to deliver 10km of seamless, accessible and historic waterfront. The Connectivity Project is one of several early initiatives aimed at encouraging locals to enjoy and reconnect with the River Lagan.”
The Compass Rose is just one component of the Connectivity Project, which also includes a raised planter at Queen’s Quay. This has already enhanced the aesthetic appeal of this key gateway point on the Maritime Mile, and it will be complemented by a new coffee kiosk opening this winter. Additionally, Maritime Belfast consulted with partners Sustrans, Cycling UK, Mic n Bike Tours, and Belfast Cycle Tours and installed 25 bike stands to improve cycling infrastructure in the area.
In partnership with the Waterfront Task Group, Maritime Belfast is committed to the delivery of the framework aimed at ensuring the sustainable future of Belfast’s waterfront. This framework includes both long-term transformative projects and short-term, community-focused initiatives that respond to local needs. Through the installation of the Compass Rose and other elements of the Connectivity Project, Maritime Belfast is playing a key role in realising the wider vision for Belfast’s historic waterfront.
Ciaran Doherty, Head of Regions and Investment at Tourism Northern Ireland, said: “Tourism Northern Ireland is delighted to support the Maritime Mile Connectivity Project, which will help guide visitors towards key attractions along the Maritime Mile. The installation of the unique Compass Rose at the Big Fish improves navigation for visitors along the waterfront and the city centre, better connecting our heritage assets and cultural and tourism attractions while improving our domestic and international reputation as an attractive holiday destination. Projects like this can help increase the length of time visitors spend here.In addition, the improvement to the nearby cycling infrastructure will also greatly add to the visitor offer and sustainable future of Belfast’s waterfront”
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said, “The new Compass Rose in front of the Big Fish is a fun and interesting addition to other wayfinding features around the Maritime Mile and River Lagan. My department is pleased to continue it’s working partnership with Maritime Belfast and looks forward to more new highlights in the waterfront area.”
The project was delivered by The Paul Hogarth Company and Totalis Construction.
