The National Trust is to get a major facelift at its Divis and Black Mountain site.
The Belfast City Council Planning Committee has approved a planning application by the National Trust to refurbish and repurpose three buildings to provide facilities including a kiosk area, exhibition space, an accessible toilet and relocation of the existing café.
The proposal included enhancements to the existing pond network located at the visitor hub and improvements to the site such as paths, new routes, signs and furniture.
The site comprises 6.5 hectares of land, and is accessed from the Divis Road. There are a number of walking trails within the site.
Along the access road is a car park which contains a “traditional” old single storey building containing a café and two other old buildings currently in a state of disrepair.
Council officers recommend the plan for approval.
The planning report states: “The proposal is considered to enhance the existing National Trust site by enhancing the existing walking trails and the addition of new walking trails. The proposal will also provide signage and appropriate furniture to aid the visitor experience.”
It adds: “The proposed building is sympathetic to the rural character of the surrounding area and the refurbishment of existing buildings is welcomed and will contribute to enhancing the character of the area.”