Business Improvement District, Belfast One has commended the influx of investment secured for Donegall Place that will see the area at full occupancy by the end of the summer, marking a major milestone for the organisation’s city centre retail revival mission.
A number of brands are set to open and expand in Belfast city centre in the coming months, including major developments such as Victoria’s Secret on Donegall Place to LEGO and Bershka in Victoria Square.
Belfast One’s latest statistics reveal that Belfast city centre is experiencing a period of notable growth, with footfall up 6.5% already this year to date, creating an attractive opportunity for the influx of new retail outlets. Royal Avenue has witnessed a particularly strong performance with a 22% year-on-year increase, while Donegall Place is up 7%. Saturdays and Sundays continue to be the busiest days in the city, reflecting increasing consumer confidence and interest in Belfast’s evolving retail and hospitality offerings.
Martina Connolly, CEO of Belfast One BID, shares her excitement: “We are delighted to see Donegall Place on its way to becoming fully occupied once again. There have been several vacant units in recent years, and whilst, like every city, there is still work to be done to improve the city centre, this milestone is a clear indicator of Belfast city centre’s ongoing growth and transformation, as we continue to witness increased footfall across the city centre.
“The hoarding for one store is coming down this week, and right across the street, the hoarding has gone up, which is just one example of the significant changes we are seeing to the retail landscape in Belfast city centre. There are also a number of active works happening in other city centre locations to create extended retail space, watch this space.”
Earlier this year, Donegall Place introduced the world’s first Primark Home store, which has been a huge success already with thousands of customers lining the street on their opening weekend, and Northern Ireland’s first ever Ivy restaurant at Cleaver House opened in Autumn last year.
“The influx of new brands and expansions this summer will ensure that Belfast keeps pace with global retail trends. It not only reflects confidence in the city centre but also enhances the shopping experience for everyone who visits Belfast, putting it on the map alongside other shopping destinations across the UK,” Martina continues.