News

Approval for new 54,000 sq ft office development in the heart of Belfast City Centre

The Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) has granted planning permission for a £10m office development designed to support the continued demand for high-quality office space in Belfast City Centre.

We provided expert Planning and Strategic Communications services for the development by the Domus UK group, which signals strong support for office focused development in the city centre and provides a great opportunity to develop what is currently a surface-level carpark and a number of small commercial units. 

The PAC decision outlined how the proposed office development could support and develop the character of the Linen Quarter area and the wider Belfast City Centre. The decision states that the redevelopment “provides an opportunity to enhance the character of the [Linen Quarter] conservation [area].” 

The PAC also accepted that the site, as it currently sits, “does not make a positive contribution to the conservation area” and that it considered that “the existing development on the site does not make a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area” and accordingly granted the demolition of the existing buildings on site. 

Philip Stinson, Director said:

“We welcome this decision by the PAC and their recognition that the proposal will enhance the conservation area whilst respecting the setting of Ulster Hall. It will be a great addition to the area transforming a site that has partly lain derelict for 50 years with a high-quality building providing Grade A office space.”

Investment Director for Domus UK, Ian Layford, stated: 

“We are delighted to receive this positive decision from the PAC which paves the way for work to begin on the site. Domus UK is committed to this project along with the £10m investment that it brings to Belfast as we’re keen to support the continued demand for high-quality office space for in the city.”

“We have put significant effort into bringing development forward on this site and whilst is was regrettable that we had to seek our permission via a planning appeal, it is positive that we can now move forward with a scheme we view as being transformative for this part of the city centre. We continue to remain committed to progressing further development in Belfast.” 

22 May 2023