BELFAST City Council has approved a plan to create legal graffiti walls for artistic purposes across Belfast, backing a motion by SDLP Councillor Gary McKeown.

Legal spaces will be provided for street artists to showcase their work across the city and it's hoped this will lead to a decrease in graffiti in other areas where it is not welcomed.

Councillor McKeown praised Belfast's art scene and its artists and said his motion was aimed both at highlighting the work of street artists and cutting down on unwanted graffiti – a regular complaint from Cllr McKeown's constituents.

“Belfast is lucky to have a fantastic art scene that rivals anywhere else on these islands," he said. "Over the last few years we have seen street art grow in popularity, whether to support an important cause or campaign, or just to give artists a chance to show off their creativity.

"Alongside that we have also seen an increase in unwanted graffiti that has annoyed local residents and cost the Council considerable sums to remove.

“I believe that by creating dedicated street art walls across our city we will be giving artists the perfect platform to showcase their work, while tackling issues around graffiti. Street art in Belfast has attracted attention from both local people and tourists alike, with some breathtaking pieces of work being shared widely online.

“I am delighted that my fellow Councillors supported my proposal and I look forward to seeing the creation of these spaces where our artists can show off their skills in an area created specifically for them."

Councillor McKeown continued: “Council needs to work more closely with our arts sector to meet their needs and encourage our talented local artists to reach their full potential. A vibrant street arts scene should be an important consideration as we work to reimagine Belfast as a modern and forward-thinking city that reflects the population who lives here.”