Belfast City Council has announced plans to launch the UK's first incentive-based digital currency.

Belfast Coin, developed by tech company Colu, will be accepted as payment at local businesses across the city.

It will operate as a rewards platform and will be deployed to boost the city economy and help meet environmental goals.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Cllr Deirdre Hargey, said: 'Belfast Coin will be introduced later this year and it’s our hope that it will initially give an economic boost to local businesses, as well as helping council achieve other long-term goals, including environmental.

'This challenge gives us the opportunity to explore how a city currency can bring residents, businesses and city partners together to support inclusive growth - a key priority within our Belfast Agenda.'

The council had the opportunity to develop the currency as part of its participation in 100 Resilient Cities.