PLANS have been submitted for a £40 million residential development in Belfast city centre.
Following the conclusion of a pre-application consultation process, plans were submitted for the redevelopment of a car park site on Wellwood Street just before Christmas.
The proposals for the Albion scheme include the erection of two residential units no more than 19 storeys in height, featuring 277 build to rent apartments.
The plans, being brought forward by developer, Glenalpin St Ltd also include shared amenity and car parking spaces.
If approved by council planners the development could create 250 construction jobs, as well as offer apprenticeship opportunities.
Speaking in November ahead of a public consultation event, Ciaran Deazley, project architect from Like Architects said the scheme will help re-invigorate the local area.
“The Albion development seeks to provide a landmark building for inner city living. It has been designed as two buildings connected by a landscaped square, the high quality brick and glass façade will bring a contemporary presence and vibrancy to the area," Mr Deazley said.
The project coincides with an initiative from community workers in Sandy Row who are working to revitalise an area that has experienced population decrease from 25,000 to 4,000.
The scheme also forms part of Belfast City Council plans to provide new housing for an additional 66,000 people in the city by 2035.
Belfast's first build to rent accommodation was granted planning permission in October.
The £15m Academy Street building, being brought forward by joint venture Lacuna Watkin Jones, comprises 90 one and two bed apartments.
The 16-storey landmark development is due to be complete by early next year.
Build to rent is a popular concept in other major UK and Irish cities.
The model sees apartments purpose-built for rental only, with ownership retained by the building owner. A management company then provides additional services such as 24/7 security, communal space and cafes for long-term tenancies.
