Belfast's Boyne Bridge Transformed into Stunning Steel Time Capsule

A new sculpture has been unveiled outside Belfast's Grand Central Station, and it is made from parts of the old Boyne Bridge. The Boyne Bridge was a well-known landmark in Belfast, with a history that stretched back almost 400 years. It was rebuilt in 1936 but was recently dismantled to make way for new developments. Instead of letting the bridge disappear from memory, artists decided to use its steel parts to create a sculpture that celebrates Belfast's industrial past and its ongoing transformation.

Peter Richards, an artist from the Golden Thread Gallery, played a key role in designing the sculpture. He described the project as an opportunity to honor the hard work that has shaped the city and to reflect on how Belfast is changing. Richards explained that he often sketches ideas while talking with others, and the concept for the sculpture came together quickly during these discussions. The team considered several ideas but chose the one that best represented both celebration and remembrance. The sculpture, named Reflections, stands nine metres tall in Saltwater Square, a new public space next to the station. It faces Sandy Row, the area where the Boyne Bridge once stood, and its shiny steel surface reflects people passing by, symbolizing the movement of time and the city's journey.

Kevin Killen, the sculptor who helped bring the design to life, said it was a pleasure to work with the materials from the Boyne Bridge. He worked closely with engineers to ensure the sculpture was safe and sturdy. The unveiling of the sculpture was accompanied by the launch of murals created by local schoolchildren. These murals, displayed around Grand Central Station, add color and life to the area and give young people a chance to share their vision for Belfast.

Belfast's Lord Mayor, Tracy Kelly, said the removal of the Boyne Bridge was a sensitive issue for the community, but she hopes the new art pieces will help people connect the city's past and future. Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins praised the murals for giving young people a voice in shaping the city's image. Chris Conway, Chief Executive of Translink, said the new civic space is about bringing communities together and revitalizing the area. He emphasized the importance of including the Boyne Bridge in the sculpture to honor the area's heritage while looking forward to the future.

The new sculpture and murals are more than just art; they are symbols of Belfast's resilience and its ability to adapt and grow. By reusing parts of the Boyne Bridge, the city is keeping its history alive while creating something new for everyone to enjoy. The project shows how art can help communities remember their roots and imagine a brighter future together.