Belfast cruise terminal expansion and 13-storey aparthotel approved

CGI of new multi-purpose berthing facility for cruise ships to the city at land on Airport Road West in the Harbour Estate.

Belfast’s facilities for welcoming cruise passengers are set to be expanded after councillors approved amended plans for a multi-purpose berthing facility within the Harbour Estate.

Belfast City Council’s Planning Committee gave the application from Belfast Harbour Commissioners the green light on Tuesday evening, 18 August.

The development, on land at Airport Road West, will include the relocation and extension of the main cruise terminal building, a further baggage building and associated infrastructure.

Expanded gateway for cruise visitors

Site lighting, landscaping and other ancillary works also form part of the approved application.

The investment is intended to strengthen the infrastructure serving cruise ships visiting Belfast, which acts as an important arrival point for passengers travelling onwards to attractions across Northern Ireland.

Because the application concerned amendments to the development, the committee’s decision should not be interpreted as approval of an entirely new cruise terminal proposal.

Bedford Street aparthotel plans renewed

CGI of proposed new 13-storey aparthotel in Belfast city centre

Councillors also renewed planning permission for the redevelopment of a four-storey terrace at 29–33 Bedford Street in Belfast city centre.

The application, submitted by Andras House, provides for the refurbishment of the existing terrace, an extension to its rear and the construction of a new 13-storey aparthotel.

An aparthotel combines hotel services with apartment-style accommodation, typically providing guests with facilities suited to longer stays.

The renewed permission allows the developer further time to pursue the scheme, but planning approval does not necessarily mean construction will begin immediately.

Playing pitch improvements approved

A third application approved by the committee will allow improvements to Hammer Playing Pitch.

The work includes resurfacing and a minor extension of the existing 3G pitch, replacement floodlighting and fencing, new dugouts and a covered mini-stand with seating for 50 spectators.

Further information about Belfast City Council’s Planning Committee and Planning Service is available here.

The approvals clear an important planning hurdle for all three developments, although their delivery will now depend on the respective applicants progressing the projects.