Approval nears for Weavers Cross

A major planning application for the Weavers Cross Regeneration Project is set to go before planners this week, with a decision due on the Belfast city centre development.The outline proposals were submitted to Belfast City Council in December 2021 following an extensive community consultation process.Translink set out the development ambition for the 1.3 million sq ft brownfield site on land surrounding the Belfast Transport Hub, which will comprise a number of uses including grade A office space, residential, leisure, retail, hospitality, social enterprise, community space and public realm in the city centre.At its heart lies the approved Belfast Transport Hub and Saltwater Square: a central gathering place for events, recreation and connection.The application is set to be discussed at a special meeting of Belfast City Council’s planning committee on 31 August, with a recommendation for approval.At the time the plans were revealed, Chris Conway, group chief executive at Translink, said: “We have sought to bring forward proposals that sets out a direction for inclusive regeneration to be delivered by an appointed developer partner.”We are delighted that there has been resoundingly positive feedback across the local community, business, passengers and the wider public, about the opportunity that Weavers Cross can deliver.”Utilising the Belfast Transport Hub as a catalyst for transport led-regeneration, Weavers Cross is not just an opportunity to create new modern employment space and homes in the city but will generate long-term jobs and social value.”As a hugely important NI Executive Flagship project, it will contribute to enhancing the city in line with the Belfast Agenda ambitions, helping ensure its long-term success for the benefit of everyone.”