The government in Northern Ireland has backed a decision to invest more than £100,000 into turning a march organised by the Orange Order into a carnival and tourism attraction.

Traditionally, 12 July, or the Twelfth, is marked by annual marches – the biggest of which takes place in Belfast – which have been a focus of division between Protestants and Roman Catholics across Northern Ireland for decades.

Celebrating the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, when William of Orange defeated King James II, a Catholic, the marches have been contentious events in the past.

However, David Hanson, the Northern Ireland social development minister, has publicly backed the approval of £104,000 worth of funding for a new development officer, responsible for promoting the positive aspects of the parades over the next three years.

Hanson said: “Belfast city centre is about to experience rapid growth in retail, leisure and tourism. The city centre is a place where all sections of the community and visitors feel safe, welcome and at home.

“It is disappointing that, during the marching season, the city centre and some of the main arterial routes either close down or are abandoned by those who do not feel comfortable with the parades.

“Given the urban renewal underway in Belfast, I believe that the time is right to see whether the Orange Order can achieve a broader understanding and acceptance of Orange culture and tradition across the community.” Details: www.dsdni.gov.uk