The 2023 Open Botanic Festival in Belfast was a vibrant community event aiming to transform Botanic Avenue into a pedestrian-friendly space. Organised by Forward South Partnership, the festival promoted the concept of shared space, accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, highlighting the area's potential for reduced car use, decreased pollution, and enhanced health benefits.

The university played a significant role in this event through the involvement of the School of Natural and Built Environment. Staff and students collaborated with six community groups, including those from the Holylands, Donegall Pass, Sandy Row, and the Anaka Women's Collective, to co-design kiosks and other elements for the festival.

The festival featured a range of family-friendly activities such as music, workshops, food stalls, and temporary cycle paths, emphasising the area's cultural diversity and community spirit. The event was also an opportunity to gather public input on the future of Botanic Avenue, with discussions centered around the possibility of permanent pedestrianisation as part of Belfast City Council's Bolder Vision Strategy, which includes plans for the redevelopment of Shaftesbury Square.

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