The research titled "West Belfast Heritage: Impact Analysis", conducted in partnership with local heritage organisation Fáilte Feirste Thiar, represents a significant milestone in understanding the transformational potential and impact of community-driven tourism. Working alongside the West Belfast Heritage Forum network, QCAP academics compiled evidence to demonstrate how the sector now generates over £9.4 million annually, supports 161 full-time equivalent jobs, and reaches more than 600,000 people each year. With a Gross Value Added approaching £20 million, heritage tourism has emerged as a vital economic engine for the region, but significantly local places like West Belfast.

What makes this research particularly impactful is its engaged methodology. Rather than conducting tourism analysis in isolation, QCAP worked directly with local community organisations, heritage groups, and social enterprises to understand the sector's multifaceted impacts. This collaborative approach ensured that the findings reflected genuine community experiences and priorities based on actual financial data compiled through surveys and filed accounts by the local organisations themselves.

The report was launched on Wednesday, 28 May 2025, by Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA at the Roddy McCorley Republican Heritage Centre, who underscored its importance for future policy development and place-based renewal.

                     

Harry Connolly from Fáilte Feirste Thiar also noted how the research validates the power of authentic, community-led heritage experiences to create lasting benefits for both visitors and local communities, establishing a blueprint for inclusive economic growth and meaningful employment opportunities. The emphasis on heritage and local storytelling also offers alternative peacebuilding pathways, which will be significant for divided and often some of the most deprived communities in Belfast.