Plans have been unveiled for a major new multi-million pound mixed-use project in the Smithfield area of Belfast.

Bywater Properties and Ashmour are proposing to develop the 235,000 sq ft scheme at a one-and-a-quarter acre site between Gresham Street and Winetavern Street, which is currently being used as a car park.

Designed by architects FCB Studios, outline proposals include developing a vibrant mix of contemporary office spaces, co-working space and workshops for small, local businesses, as well as significant improvements to the current public realm. The development is anchored by a 115,000 sq ft main office building, providing modern office space and floorplates with roof terraces, digital connectivity and high-quality bike, shower and other amenities.

Theo Dales, from FCB Studios, said the practice's design for the scheme is based on "reimagining" the traditional mill building.

"This familiar building type, mixed with the grain of historic buildings, combines to create a characterful and rich piece of the city," he said.

"The listed Butcher's building is integrated into this set of buildings to create a unified and active place. The proposal reflects an ambitious development and keen interest in how this city works. Bywater and Ashmour have promoted viable development and inclusive regeneration by making links to local businesses and people. This is most clearly reflected in the small-scale ground floor uses and inclusion of accessible public space."

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If approved, up to 650 construction jobs will be created in the build phase of the project and once completed, the proposed office accommodation will have space for up to 1,500 people.

A consultation on the proposals has now been launched under the working title 'Building Blocks'. Both Bywater and Ashmour are refurbishing the listed former Butcher's building on the corner of Gresham Street and North Street to use as its consultation headquarters and a community consultation will be held in the building in September.

In addition, the Building Blocks proposals have also taken into account the goals set out in Belfast City Council's recently published Inner North West Masterplan for the areas of the city including Smithfield. The scheme will create new pedestrian access into Gresham Street and Winetavern Street as well as additional landscaped public areas.

Ashley Stewart from Ashmour said: "Smithfield was historically a thriving hub of trade in Belfast and our plans aim to make it a trading heart in the city once again.

"We respect the city's heritage and culture and we want to preserve Smithfield's character and the life that's already there while investing to rejuvenate an area that has suffered from chronic under investment for many years."

Theo Michell from Bywater Properties added: "Smithfield has always been about small, local independent traders. We believe that it is important for the city to retain diversity, locating big businesses alongside small home-grown startups, independent traders and artisan makers.

"Our aim is to champion the independents, not to attract multi-national chains to fill standard shops. We believe larger businesses recognise these are the areas their staff want to work and socialise in, where there's life and vitality on the doorstep."

Details of the proposed development are available at buildingblocksbelfast.com

(LM/MH)