A decision to refuse plans for one of the largest student accommodation buildings in Northern Ireland has been overturned.
The huge student scheme, with some 795 rooms, to be located close to Library Street and Little Donegall Street in the city centre at a former Belfast Telegraph car park, was recommended for approval by planners at Belfast City Council in 2023. But the planning committee instead voted to refuse the application.
However, following an appeal, the major development could now be built, after being given the go-ahead by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC).
At the time it was recommended for approval, Colin Donaldson, director with developer Mandeville Developments NI, said: “We understand from both universities and the further education college that demand for quality managed accommodation in the city will continue to grow and outstrip approved or existing supply.”
He said the company had held “positive engagement” with businesses and the community in the area and would respect the character of nearby listed buildings.
What the new student scheme could like when built
They include the former Belfast Telegraph site on Royal Avenue, while an Art Deco-style building nearby is to be turned into Belfast Stories, a visitor centre for the city.
Some of the issues raised with the scheme previously included that it would impact the delivery of housing in the area, public open space for new housing, and that it was “out of keeping” with the area.
But on the issue of the impact on housing and social housing schemes in the area, the PAC said, as there are no expired schemes or approved schemes in the area, it is “unable to conclude that the appeal proposal would prejudice delivery of social housing on the adjacent site”.
“[We] conclude that the appeal proposal would deliver [student accommodation] and public realm/open space which would further… the intention of creating a new city centre neighbourhood that incorporates a mix of uses, including residential, commercial, retail and leisure, all integrated through a strong and cohesive public realm”.
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On the appearance and design of the building, the PAC said it did “not consider that the scale, form and massing of the appeal building would represent a discordant feature in the local context”.
The plans would also include a café and retail offering, as well as communal facilities and an internal courtyard.
If work now begins on the building, it will become one of the largest to be developed in the city.
Watkin Jones and Lacuna Developments is planning to build a student scheme, with more than 1,000 rooms, in the Titanic Quarter. The development was given the go-ahead last year.
It would also include a café, shared lounges, dining areas, games rooms, study spaces, launderettes and gyms.
Speaking at the time of the green light, George Dyer, group investment director of Watkin Jones, said it “will help to address the growing need for [student] accommodation in Belfast whilst supporting a sustainable and safe community for living, working and leisure”.
He continued: “Residents will benefit from excellent transport links, which will be further enhanced through the green travel fund, proximity to the city centre, and nearby developments including Titanic Belfast, SSE Arena and Titanic Studios.”
News Catch Up – Tuesday 4 February