New hotel in Botanic and major leisure development in Boucher approved by Belfast City Council

CGI image of new leisure development on the Apollo Road in the Boucher area.

Belfast City Council’s Planning Committee has given the green light to several transformative developments across the city, including a new 164-bedroom hotel in the vibrant Botanic area, a state-of-the-art leisure complex in Boucher, and a drive-through café near the Olympia Leisure Centre.

These approvals mark a significant step forward in enhancing Belfast’s appeal as a tourist destination and improving amenities for local residents.

The new hotel, proposed by Andras House, will be located at the junction of Botanic Avenue and Donegall Pass, transforming a site currently used as a surface-level car park and a retail and office unit.

CGI image of new 164-bedroom hotel in the Botanic area at junction of Botanic Avenue and Donegall Pass.

The development will feature a ground-floor bar and restaurant, adding to the area’s bustling hospitality scene.

Councillor Ryan Murphy, Chair of Belfast City Council’s Planning Committee, welcomed the decision, stating:

“It’s further good news for tourists and visitors to Belfast to have another major hotel development approved, this time - in the Botanic area.

“This new hotel will be close to shops, bars and restaurants and other local visitor attractions like Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum.

“It’s also walking distance to the city centre and close to Botanic station which provides public transport links to the wider city and beyond including Lanyon Place and St George’s Market and Titanic Quarter and SSE Arena and Titanic Belfast, among other great attractions.”

The hotel’s prime location ensures easy access to some of Belfast’s most iconic landmarks, making it an attractive option for visitors exploring the city’s rich cultural and historical offerings. Its proximity to Botanic station also enhances connectivity, linking guests to key destinations such as the Titanic Quarter and SSE Arena.

In addition to the hotel, the Planning Committee approved a significant leisure development at the Adelaide Business Centre on Apollo Road, Boucher.

The project will see the conversion of former office and storage space into a family-friendly complex featuring a bowling alley, restaurant, indoor golf, children’s soft play area, virtual reality zone, amusements, and parking facilities.

Councillor Murphy highlighted the benefits for local residents, saying, “The Planning Committee also approved a new leisure complex on the Apollo Road, Boucher, with bowling alley, soft children’s play area and indoor golf which is fantastic news for residents and families in the city.”

This new leisure hub is expected to provide a welcome boost to family-oriented activities in Belfast, offering diverse entertainment options under one roof. The inclusion of modern attractions like a VR zone reflects the city’s commitment to embracing innovative leisure trends.

Further enhancing the city’s offerings, the committee approved a drive-through café near the Lidl supermarket and Olympia Leisure Centre on Boucher Road. This development will provide convenient dining options for both residents and visitors in the area.

The Planning Committee also granted permission for a council-led initiative to install street art on the façade of the former Belfast Telegraph building at the junction of Royal Avenue and Donegall Street. This project aims to enhance the city’s visual appeal and celebrate Belfast’s growing reputation as a hub for creative expression.

These approvals signal an exciting period of growth for Belfast, with projects that promise to enhance its appeal as a dynamic, visitor-friendly city while providing new opportunities for local residents to enjoy modern leisure facilities.

As the city continues to evolve, these developments underscore Belfast’s ambition to balance cultural heritage with forward-thinking urban planning.