PROPERTY developer Kirk Bryson has launched its latest bid for a residential project in the heart of Belfast’s retail core.
The company set up by former KFC tycoon Michael Herbert, has lodged a planning application to develop 13 one-bedroom apartments inside the listed Royal Chambers building on Royal Avenue.
A ground level restaurant is also proposed in the unit currently occupied by retailer Schuh.
The bid comes after Royal Avenue was hit by the loss of the flagship Debenhams store. Clothing retailer Gap has also closed its Royal Avenue outlet in recent weeks.
Kirk Bryson has said the residential and restaurant proposal “ensures the continued use of the existing building and will bring increased vitality and viability into the city centre”.
The developer has pointed to Belfast City Council’s draft plan strategy which includes a policy of growing the residential population of the city centre through the adaption and re-use of vacant and under-utilised buildings.
Built between 1880 and 1899, one of the earliest occupants of Royal Chambers was the office and auction market of former Lord Mayor of Belfast Sir Robert McConnell, responsible for naming the streets in Belfast’s Holy Land after returning from Egypt and Palestine.
While Kirk Bryson is proposing some internal demolition works of the listed structure, the company said the intention of its design was to be sensitive and respectful to the subject building and the character of the surroundings.
Last year Kirk Bryson was given planning permission to build 54 studio apartments in nearby Queen Street.
The developer’s building at 31-39 Royal Avenue is on the edge of the 12-acre area due to developed as part of the £500m Tribeca scheme. The proposal includes a total of 367 residential units.
