Belfast launches project to let citizens ‘talk’ to historic attractions

Belfast City Council is encouraging residents and visitors to interact with landmarks along Belfast’s Maritime Mile. Anyone with a mobile phone can strike up a conversation with attractions such as the Big Fish statue.

‘Hello Maritime Mile’ is a pilot smart city project between Belfast City Council, Titanic Foundation, Tourism NI, Ulster University and Hello Lamp Post which will run for six weeks.

Anyone with a mobile phone can strike up a conversation with attractions such as the Big Fish statue.

Starting at the Big Fish on Donegall Quay, people will be able to ‘chat’ with objects along the stretch which finishes at the HMS Caroline in Alexandra Dock.

With an SMS-enabled phone, visitors can send a text to each landmark – for example: ‘Hello Big Fish’ – and receive responses.

Landmarks include SS Nomadic, Titanic Belfast, Belfast Harbour and The Great Light.

Smart tourism

Lord Mayor, Councillor Deirdre Hargey, said: “Belfast City Council is delighted to take part in this exciting pilot project which aims to animate the Maritime Mile and engage both visitors and residents of the city to learn more about the notable landmarks that are located along the scenic riverside stretch.”

She added: “It not only brings together our city partners and us to collaborate on the project but our teams within the Council - Tourism, Culture & Arts, Smart Cities, City Innovation and Events – to work to enhance the visitor experience in Belfast by exploring how technology can contribute to this, while also progressing our smart city agenda.”

Hello Lamp Post

Hello Lamp Post, which provides the platform for citizens to interact with objects, has also launched projects in cities including Bristol, Brighton, London, Tokyo, Texas and Singapore.

Hello Lamp Post has also launched projects in cities including Bristol, Brighton, London, Tokyo, Texas and Singapore.

Tiernan Mines, CEO of Hello Lamp Post said: “This is the start of an exciting journey for us in Belfast and beyond - aiming to help citizens and visitors to see the city in a new light and to feel more included. And ultimately, helping to bridge the gap between citizens and their city."

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