COUNCILLORS in Belfast last night approved a number of major city centre planning applications.
Belfast City Council's planning committee gave the go-ahead for two applications for a mixed-use scheme close to Smithfield Market at Gresham Street and Winetavern Street, an area which is mostly used for car parking at present.
Approval for the multi-million-pound office and retail scheme, dubbed Smithfield Yard, had been recommended by city council planning officials.
Hotel group Andras House’s bid for a 13 storey aparthotel on Bedford Street and two large apartment schemes was also approved.
The scheme involves proposals to refurbish a historic Victorian terrace on Bedford Street, with part change of use to include two cafes on the ground floor and offices above.
Approval was also granted for a 10 storey mixed-use development with 85 serviced apartments on the Dublin Road.
Planning committee chair Councillor John Hussey said: “These major developments are proof that investors have high confidence that our city will continue to grow into the future.”
