BELFAST-based private equity firm Norlin Ventures is to expand its leisure and community offering with the introduction of Northern Ireland’s largest fanzone facility at its South13 venue in South Belfast.
Located on the Boucher Road, the former B&Q warehouse will become Fanzone@S13 during the upcoming World Cup qualifiers both the Northern Ireland and Republic soccer teams, as well as the Irish rugby team’s clash with South Africa.
The 10,000 capacity indoor venue (www.fanzonebelfast.com) will boast a 40 sq metres screen, licensed bar facilities and a range of food and beverage options, as well as free on-site parking.
Stephen Symington, director at Norlin Ventures, believes the launch of Fanzone@S13 will address a gap in the market for a non-weather dependent family venue in the city.
“Northern Ireland boasts a strong sports culture that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and from across all backgrounds, contributing over £850 million to our economy every year.
“We have seen from high-profile events such as the Euros last year that local people really get behind the Northern Ireland and Republic football teams.
“We have invested in making the site at Boucher Road a safe, family-friendly venue where people can come together – regardless of the weather – to embrace the community spirit that embodies sport here.
“This is a perfect example of how, with the right expertise and investment, a space can be re-purposed and used in a welcoming, flexible and versatile manner for the benefit of the local community.”
