Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, has paved the way for a new boutique hotel in Belfast city centre.

Subject to planning and other statutory approvals, the redevelopment of the vacant site at 38 – 42 Bank Street in Belfast will see a significant investment which will result in a four floor boutique hotel with accommodation for 33 people in 17 ensuite rooms. The hotel will also have a ground floor restaurant.

Appointing the developer, MM Developments (NI) Ltd, Minister Storey said: “The developer’s proposal for a boutique hotel will be the final piece in the jigsaw of regenerating Bank Square in Belfast City Centre, and will complement the £3million regeneration work recently undertaken in the area by my Department.

“The hotel development will provide an active frontage for Bank Street that will further enhance the new streetscape and contribute to the physical and economic renewal of the area. It will create job opportunities and attract tourists, which will benefit businesses both locally and in the wider City Centre.

“This is an exciting time for Bank Square area, with events such as the weekly Folktown Market and other planned activities now bringing increased footfall to the area. The time is right to move forward with the development of this site and I believe that a boutique hotel will fit well into this up and coming area. I wish MM Developments (NI) Ltd every success with this venture.”

Mark Matthews, MM Developments (NI) Ltd commented: “I am delighted to be selected as the preferred developer for the Bank Street site to continue the rejuvenation of the Bank Square area, building on DSD’s recently completed refurbishment of the streetscape.

“I look forward to working closely with the Department to deliver the boutique hotel project, which will complement the existing hospitality offered in the Square and create new jobs and much needed economic activity in this unique part of the city centre.”

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