Parades Commission gives go ahead to Belfast parade

The parade is just days before the first anniversary of Belfast council's decision to restrict flying of the union flag

The Parades Commission has given the go-ahead for a loyalist parade in Belfast city centre.

It is to take place on Saturday 30 November, with a number of restrictions imposed.

The parade is just days before the first anniversary of Belfast City Council's decision to restrict flying of the union flag from city hall.

Organisers have applied for up to 10,000 people and 40 bands to take part.

The commission has ruled that the parade should be finished at its main assembly point of city hall by noon, and should be clear of the North Street/Royal Avenue junction by 12:30 GMT.

The organisers, the Loyal Peaceful Protesters, have also been told to provide adequate stewarding, and that there should be "no undue stoppages or delays" once the parade is in progress.

The commission said it came to its determination after representations from traders in Belfast city centre, and from the hospitality and tourism industries.

Following Belfast council's decision in December 2012 there were regular protests and some disturbances in the city and throughout Northern Ireland for a number of weeks.