Michael Stewart appointed Belfast’s first-ever Night Czar
Stewart hopes to serve as an “advocate and voice” for Belfast’s nighttime economy
Hospitality figure Michael Stewart has been appointed Belfast’s first-ever Night Czar following calls to apply for the new role in May.
Stewart, who heads up Common Market Belfast and is known for his role in hospitality operations across the city, was selected for the role after a five-week process.
The news was announced on Tuesday, June 11, confirming that Stewart will be given a two-year honorary role as he hopes to serve as an “advocate and voice” for Belfast’s nighttime economy.
“This is a significant appointment and I’m proud to serve as an advocate and voice for Belfast city centre’s nighttime economy,” Stewart said.
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Stewart, who has been working in the hospitality sector for 38 years, also hopes to address safety in nightlife and late-night transport issues, which has been an ongoing point of contention in recent years.
“This role provides a unique platform working with key partners to address critical issues impacting our city centre, ensuring it remains a vibrant and dynamic destination after hours,” he says.
The new role is funded by Belfast’s three business improvement districts and will pay Stewart £12,000 a year for his part-time duties - just a 10th of the salary received by London’s night czar Amy Lamé.
According to the Irish News, the role is being funded by the Linen Quarter BID, Belfast One, and Destination CQ business bodies, as opposed to the local council and government.
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Stewart told the BBC that while he holds “no power” over the implementation of regulations, his role will allow him to lobby for change, advocate, and network.
"I was Belfast Chamber president during the Covid years, I do this for the passion, not for the money," he explained. "This is a part, part, part-time role, but I will give it a lot of time and effort.”
In May, the new role was established to oversee a major development in Belfast’s nighttime economy. Calls to apply for the role were open for a month.
The announcement of the Night Czar role followed Belfast’s recent award of the Purple Flag, which recognises the city’s thriving and diverse nighttime economy.
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter