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The main function of a peaceline is to control the landscape by limiting the movement of residents. A dramatic example of this, shown in the photograph, is a gate in a peacewall from one neighborhood to another, which may be equipped with a lock, giving the community control over opening and closing times, or completely welded shut which is impossible to open without destruction of the wall. Most often, however, peacelines restrict access in two main circumstances, to the other group and to amenities. |
In 1995, 13 peacelines were in existence. By the spring of
1999, the number had grown to approximately 17 purpose-built structures.
These numbers do not include less formal peacelines, geographical or social.
These include the River Lagan, separating West and East Belfast, and the
Westlink expressway which acts as a peaceline between the residential estates
and the CBD, as well as sectarian graffiti,