Northern Ireland

Belfast councillors approve major city centre planning applications

A digitally rendered impression of the Smithfield Yard scheme in Belfast
A digitally rendered impression of the Smithfield Yard scheme in Belfast A digitally rendered impression of the Smithfield Yard scheme in Belfast

COUNCILLORS in Belfast last night approved a number of major city centre planning applications.

Belfast City Council's planning committee gave the go-ahead for two applications for a mixed-use scheme close to Smithfield Market at Gresham Street and Winetavern Street, an area which is mostly used for car parking at present.

Approval for the multi-million-pound office and retail scheme, dubbed Smithfield Yard, had been recommended by city council planning officials.

Hotel group Andras House’s bid for a 13 storey aparthotel on Bedford Street and two large apartment schemes was also approved.

The scheme involves proposals to refurbish a historic Victorian terrace on Bedford Street, with part change of use to include two cafes on the ground floor and offices above.

Approval was also granted for a 10 storey mixed-use development with 85 serviced apartments on the Dublin Road.

Planning committee chair Councillor John Hussey said: “These major developments are proof that investors have high confidence that our city will continue to grow into the future.”