There is now just one week to go until the first ever Summit of the Cities takes place at Belfast City Hall on Wednesday 24 June 2026, bringing together representatives from all twelve cities across the island of Ireland for the first time.
The landmark event will see civic leaders, policymakers, business leaders, academics and community representatives come together for a positive and forward-looking conversation on how cities can drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and create more vibrant, sustainable and inclusive places for the future.
The Summit will feature keynote contributions from former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and former Chief-of-Staff to UK Prime Minister Sue Gray, alongside a programme of discussions exploring regeneration, innovation, culture, connectivity and the role of cities in shaping economic prosperity.
The Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and the Deputy Mayor of Ards and North Down Borough Council joined Summit of the Cities Partner NIE Networks and one of the event organisers Brendan Mulgrew at Grand Central Station to mark the milestone.
Along with NIE Networks, the Summit of the Cities is being supported by a number of partners including BCF Lending, Belfast City Council, Newry, Mourne & Down Council, Ards & North Down Council, Queen’s University Belfast and Intertrade Ireland.
Peter McClenaghan, Head of Communications & Engagement, NIE Networks, said:
“We are delighted to support the inaugural Summit of the Cities and to play a role in bringing together leaders from across the island to discuss the future of our urban centres. It is increasingly clear that the future success of our cities will depend on collaboration, innovation and investment in the infrastructure needed to create sustainable, connected and resilient places.
“NIE Networks is proud to support conversations that bring together civic leaders, communities and industry to help shape the cities of the future.”
Brendan Mulgrew, Managing Partner at MW Advocate, who are organising the event said:
“The Summit of the Cities is a historic moment, bringing together every city on the island of Ireland for the first time to explore how we can collectively shape the future of our urban centres.
“The programme will look at the opportunities and challenges facing cities today, from regeneration and investment to culture, sustainability and innovation.
“We are looking forward to welcoming delegates to Belfast City Hall for a day of ideas, collaboration and practical solutions.”
Tickets are still available at www.summitofthecities.com
The Summit of the Cities will bring together representatives from Armagh, Belfast, Bangor, Cork, Derry, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Lisburn, Limerick, Newry and Waterford.
The event takes place at Belfast City Hall on 24 June 2026.