Following a legislation change which brings St Patrick’s Day into line with other holiday periods, Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed the news, which relates to on-street parking in CPZs.

The change will apply to Belfast, Newry and Lisburn.

The Minister said that her Department had been working to amend the legislation.

“This will provide greater flexibility for those wanting to either enjoy the festivities or simply to visit one of the cities to socialise or shop on their day off,” said the Minister.

Reminding everyone to continue to park legally and responsibly, the Minister added: “If we all park responsibly, we can ensure we have safer streets, better access for disabled people, support for local businesses and keep our transport system running smoothly.”

The post Boost for high streets as St Patrick’s Day made non-charge day for CPZs first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

Clear your diary for Friday 16^th October when the NR Awards will return with more energy, excitement and industry buzz than ever before!

And we are thrilled to reveal that this year’s NR Awards gala dinner will take place at the iconic Europa Hotel, returning to the venue where it all started three decades ago.

The event will bring together over 500 retail industry professionals at a star-studded ceremony to celebrate all that is ground-breaking and innovative on the shop floor.

From independent operators and emerging talent to established names and industry leaders, the evening will shine a spotlight on those who continue to raise standards and push boundaries across the sector.

The world-famous Europa Hotel is renowned for welcoming famous faces and hosting a plethora of prestigious events, and we are delighted that the Neighbourhood Retailer Awards will once again be held at this stunning venue.

With 20 unique categories, the NR Awards draw entries from more than 500 top-notch retailers from across NI, all vying to be the best at what they do.

Since the awards were launched, they have grown into an absolute must-attend on the annual calendar, and the perfect place to meet and greet, network and celebrate with your colleagues right across the industry.

Keep your eyes peeled for information on the when you can enter this year’s awards, giving you a chance to enter some of the industry’s most exclusive award categories!

The post NR Awards return to iconic Belfast venue first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

The incident occurred on Tuesday 6^th May when a man entered a shop on the Lisburn Road at approximately 8.30am.

After entering the premises, the man threatened staff before making off in the direction of Donnybrook Street with cigarettes and a sum of cash.

The man was wearing a blue puffa style coat, a grey baseball cap, blue shorts and black trainers.

Anyone who may have witnessed the robbery, has CCTV or other footage that could assist with enquiries, is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 270 06/05/25.

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/

The post Robbery at South Belfast shop first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

The armed robbery occurred at commercial premises on Sunnyside Street on Sunday 27^th April.

At approximately 8.45pm it’s reported that a masked man entered the premises of the South Belfast store, demanding staff hand over the till, before he threatened them with a knife.

He made off with a sum of cash before being seen running down an alleyway.

Described as being approximately 6ft tall, the suspect is of heavy build and was wearing all-black clothing along with a black mask. Police are appealing for information into the incident, asking for anyone with CCTV or dash-cam footage to contact 101, quoting reference number 1479 27/04/24.

The post South Belfast store robbed at knifepoint in weekend incident first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

Stephen Crumley, from Donegall Avenue, Belfast appeared in Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Monday 10^th February.

The 33-year-old was charged with a number of offences, including three counts of fraud by false representation.

Crumley was charged with attempted burglary with intent to steal at The National Café on High Street; burglary at Nice Sip on Lisburn Road; theft of a handbag and contents to the value to £2000; burglary at Boojum, Botanic Avenue where he allegedly stole a wallet and its contents and possession of a class C controlled drug, namely Tramadol.

He was also charged with three counts of fraud by false representation namely making a purchase at SPAR Botanic Avenue, Tesco Express Dublin Road and Hui Bai Jai Asian supermarket, Donegall Pass, with a bank card belonging to another person with the intention to make a gain for himself or another or to expose the card owner to risk of loss.

Finally, Crumley was also charged with burglary at Spoon Street, Ann Street, stealing £90 cash.

The charges allegedly occurred on a series of dates in Belfast City Centre between October 2024 and February 2025.

Crumley was remanded in custody to Maghaberry Prison, with his case adjourned until 18^th February.

The post Man charged with series of commercial burglary and fraud offences first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.