Purchasers of apartments at the prestigious Gallery development on Belfast’s Dublin Road have been picking up the keys to their new homes, with some coming from as far away as China and South Africa.
A total of 17 of the bespoke apartments have been completed with the first wave of purchasers now in residence.
The Gallery, which has 58 apartments, is one of the first apartment blocks to be built in Belfast in a decade.
The 4,000 sq ft ground floor space will be home to a café and bar while communal areas in the building will transformed into a gallery for unique artwork designed by students at the Ulster University.
Templeton Robinson partner Beth Robinson says the development had strong interest from the outset, not least because the units were sold off plan at last year’s prices, despite rising property prices here.
“Young professionals, students and investors have been attracted by the affordable £115,000 price tag which can yield a healthy rental return, as well as providing city centre living within a manageable price bracket.
“We’re delighted that the Gallery has proved so popular, and with purchasers coming from as far afield as South Africa and China, the Gallery has a truly global feel. This is a world class development in the heart of Belfast which has attracted a cross section of society here.”
Location was key for 24-year-old Newry IT worker Gary McDonald, who was one of the first purchasers to get his keys.
“Living in Newry, I had a commute of between an hour and an hour and a half each morning and evening. Working just around the corner from the new apartment means it will take only five minutes to get to my desk.
“Cost was also a huge factor in deciding to purchase in the Gallery, and the off plan price has helped me get onto the property ladder at a time when house prices are continuing to rise.”
Developer Gary McCausland, who was responsible for the project, says the strong interest in the building reflects the demand for global living in the city centre.
“The key selling points of this building are the quality, design and location. Botanic is right on your doorstep, City Hall just around the corner, there are lots of amazing restaurants in the vicinity and a Dublin Road location – somewhere we see as very much up and coming over the next few years.”
