Belfast City Council (BCC) has announced the launch of its new integrated strategy to help guide tourism development in Northern Ireland's capital city.

The council will deliver the new framework in partnership with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau to continue the city's tourism growth. According to the strategy, a number of Belfast's key destinations "must be promoted" in a consistent and innovative way - such as the Titanic Quarter and the Queens Quarter.

Meanwhile, the document has outlined six schemes that will help boost the city's profile as a unique destination - such as the Titanic Signature Project and the Belfast Hills. BCC director of development John McGrillen said: "Over the next few years, it is vital that we build on the momentum achieved so far.

"Next year, 2012, in particular, offers us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to do this, and to capitalise upon the benefits of an industry that, despite the global downturn, is still the fastest-growing global economic sector."