BHS store transformation Keeps hospitality on top

Plans to transform the the former BHS store in Belfast into a retail and leisure destination include a rooftop hospitality venture with views across the city skyline.

The 70,000 sq ft  building at on Castle Lane has lain vacant since 2016 when the retailer  fell into administration.

Belfast-based Alterity Investments have now unveiled their latest plans for a a multi-purpose venue called The Keep, incorporating hospitality, leisure and retail outlets.

Richard Faloon, commercial director of Alterity Investments, said: “We are delighted to reveal plans to help strengthen Belfast City centre’s offering with the redevelopment of the BHS site. We believe the site has the potential to regenerate the commercial and retail vibrancy of this critical section of the city.

“We hope to maintain and strengthen the distinctive position of Belfast city centre to enable it to perform its role as the primary shopping centre of the region to promote a sustainable, vital and vibrant city centre.”

Belfast-based Like Architects are behind the  plans which have been submitted to Belfast City Council.

They envisage the ground floor being divided into four separate retail units and a café, while the upper floors will change use to “a mixed assembly and leisure and
sui-generis leisure use with the sale of food and drink for consumption on the premises”.

Alterity’s other city developments include Boucher Squares’ restaurant offerings, including Nando’s and Five Guys, and it is also behind development in Fountain House, and Donegall Place.

Speaking in March, Richard Faloon, said: “We are confident about the retail sector’s ability to bounce back from the difficulties of the past year and this strategic acquisition adds to the existing holdings the company already has in the Castle Lane and Cornmarket area.”

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