Business

Multi-million pound banking partnership ‘set to boost Belfast’s night-time economy’

Arrangement between Ringland Group and Ulster Bank will support future hospitality expansion

Ahead of the opening on Saturday September 7 of Belfast’s newest hospitality hotspot Amelia Hall, its owners Ringland Group and Ulster Bank have confirmed a new multi-million pound banking partnership to support future growth and boost the city’s night-time economy
Brothers Peter and Ben Ringland of the Ringland Group with Ulster Bank's corporate banking relationship director Richard Lusty (left) and associate director Andy Tew (DARREN KIDD)

Ahead of the opening on Saturday September 7 of Belfast’s newest hospitality hotspot Amelia Hall, its owners Ringland Group and Ulster Bank have confirmed a new multi-million pound banking partnership to support future growth and boost the city’s night-time economy.

The £4.75 million refinancing of the Ringland Group includes a £1.75 million facility to support the development of Amelia Hall, one of the most significant regeneration projects in Belfast’s Linen Quarter in recent years.

The 480-capacity bar is the latest investment by brothers Ben and Peter Ringland, who operate popular hotels The Flint and The 1852 as well as bars Town Square and Southside Social in the city’s Queen’s Quarter.



The funding package from Ulster Bank will also support the continued expansion of The Flint on Howard Street.

Richard Lusty, corporate banking relationship director at Ulster Bank, said: “The opening of The Flint on Howard Street in 2018 was an important moment for Belfast city centre and we’re pleased to see the regeneration of the historic Linen Quarter continuing today.

“We’re delighted to be supporting Ringland Group to deliver this ambitious project which is set to become a cornerstone of the high street and positively contribute towards the local tourism and hospitality sector, both in terms of job creation and encouraging footfall into the city centre.”

Peter Ringland said: “The Ringland Group are excited to open the doors of our new bar, pizzeria and beer garden at Amelia Hall on September 7. Ulster Bank has been instrumental in helping us realise our vision for Amelia Hall and we are most grateful for their support throughout the build.

“We are excited to partner with the bank as we expand the group and continue to make a sizable contribution to the Northern Ireland hospitality industry.”