Published Thursday, 13 May 2010
The race usually takes place on May Day bank holiday Monday, but organisers had hoped the date switch would reduce traffic congestion in the city.
Their plans faced opposition from religious leaders, including the Presbyterian moderator, who said some people would not want to take part if the marathon was held on a Sunday.
Church leaders also argued a Sunday race would disturb worshipers.
At a meeting on Wednesday evening, Belfast City Council decided to defer any consideration of moving the event from its traditional May Day Bank Holiday until after the 2011 Marathon.
It means next year's marathon will definitely not be held on a Sunday, with a final decision made on future events made after the views of the public have been sought.
"It is vital that the Marathon Company undertake the most robust consultation exercise possible on this important decision and not be seen to rush into making up our minds. This process will include churches and faith-based organisations," explained Councillor William Humphrey, Chairman of the Development Committee.
"We were concerned that the consultation hitherto had not been robust enough and it was not going to deliver equality and inclusivity in relation to the marathon, which is a tremendous event for the city," he told UTV.
The DUP chair of the committee added: "We want to try and ensure that basically anyone who wants to take part can take part."
"It is important that this council be seen to treat all the communities in our city equally - and not least to ensure that the Marathon, one of the most successful events of its kind, is fully inclusive for all those who wish to take part in it."
The council will work with Belfast's City Centre Management team, the Chamber of Trade and Commerce and local churches throughout the consultation period.