We’re inviting expressions of interest to inform the next stage of the selection process for the long-term, sustainable use of 2 Royal Avenue’s ground floor.
We acquired this iconic building in autumn 2021, recognising its potential to help address challenges impacting on the city centre through appropriate re-use, to deliver a positive regenerative impact. Since November 2021, we’ve supported the ground floor as a well-received community and cultural space, on a meanwhile basis.
We want to preserve the spirit of this space, while ensuring its future financial sustainability, so we’re seeking expressions of interest for the lease of the ground floor, with proposals that complement Belfast’s existing offering, support diversification of the city centre and enhance the city’s appeal as a place to live, study, work, socialise in, and visit. The expressions of interest will inform a second stage to this process.
Alongside this, plans are underway to establish a dedicated LGBTQIA+ Hub on the first floor, further strengthening 2 Royal Avenue’s role as an inclusive and vibrant space for all.
A unique opportunity
2 Royal Avenue (Belfast, BT1 1DA) occupies a prominent location in Belfast city centre, along Royal Avenue, between Belfast City Hall and the future Belfast Stories public space, visitor experience and creative hub which will open in 2030. Located at an intersection of routes north, south, east and west, the building helps connect the city centre with its surrounding neighbourhoods. The location also benefits from some of the highest passing footfall in Belfast.
The ground floor offers exciting vibrancy, placemaking and public realm opportunities, with building entrances from Royal Avenue and Bank Square, and frontage along Bank Street. There is also potential to collaborate with neighbouring businesses in Bank Square and beyond to further enhance the square’s civic nature.
Inside, the landmark Grade B+ Listed Building retains striking Gothic Revival features, including a circular dome visible on entering the building from Royal Avenue. The historic part of the building, as well as its later extension, offer significant potential for a number of uses and configurations.
We are seeking expressions of interest that meet the following requirements from businesses, individuals, groups or collectives:
- The long-term use should retain elements of the public facing, civic, third space that currently exists within the building.
- The long-term use should be financially sustainable – that is, it should not need any recurring operational funding from Belfast City Council.
- Uses that maximise the benefit of this key heritage asset for economic, place and social outcomes will be welcome.
- The long-term use should be complementary and compatible with the LGBTQIA+ Hub proposed within the first floor of the building.
Proposals should encourage public enjoyment and celebration of the Listed Building. The space should be accessible and inclusive and have the potential for cultural use, independent and creative retail, and artisan produce and food offerings - creating a people-focused civic place in the city centre.
Scope: The opportunity comprises the ground floor only, extending to approximately 14,250 square feet.
Lease area: The potential lease area extends into the public realm at Bank Square and Royal Avenue (floor plan available on request). The former ATM structure on Royal Avenue is also included, offering a valuable activation opportunity.
Costs: Estimated holding costs will be shared with interested parties upon request.
Contact us
If you would like to explore this opportunity, email [email protected].
We are welcoming initial conversations now and aim to conclude these in early February 2026.
You will be asked to complete a brief proforma outlining how your proposal meets the four requirements.