London-based specialist multi-disciplinary surveying and design consultancy, GIA, is planning to create a new office base in Belfast.

The move will create up to 16 new jobs, adding to the 150 staff employed by GIA across Manchester and London.

GIA is the largest specialist advisor in the UK on Rights of Light matters, as well as Daylight/ Sunlight and Solar Design for planning. In the past, the company has partnered with architects and developers on major projects such as The Gherkin, One Hyde Park, 20 Fenchurch Street ('The Walkie Talkie') and the Shard in London.

Kevin Francis, Partner at GIA, said: "We have chosen to expand with a new office in Northern Ireland due to an increase in demand for our bespoke consultancy service, particularly in relation to Rights of Light and planning matters. The existing range of skillsets available from the two great universities was a great incentive to establish a base in Belfast.

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"The roles we will initially be recruiting for are Rights of Light surveyors and consultants. The new team will offer specialist advice and solutions to complex Rights of Light cases, with a continued focus on projects in London and across the UK. With good transport links we are confident Northern Ireland is the right choice for this new office."

Alan Wilson, Head of International Investment at Invest NI, added: "GIA will offer the opportunity to work on projects in London and around the UK and as such these will be an attractive prospect for recent graduates to gain experience.

"This investment is another great example of how attractive Northern Ireland is to companies operating in lots of different sectors."

Image: (L - R) Kevin Francis, Partner at GIA and Alan Wilson, Head of International Investment, Invest NI.

(LM/MH)