The search has got underway for an integrated design team to progress a landmark visitor destination project in Belfast.

Belfast Stories is a unique visitor destination of unprecedented scale and ambition in the heart of the city centre, that will catalyse economic, social, and cultural regeneration in the city and wider region.

Belfast City Council hopes to realise a high-quality landmark building, which will attract international and local visitors, as well as providing a home for the Belfast Stories experience, by 2029.

The 5,000 m² site is located on a city centre block to the north of the Royal Avenue and North Street intersection and includes the former Bank of Ireland Art Deco property. The development will accommodate a stories visitor experience, a screen centre, and a variety of vibrant public spaces. The project forms part of the Tourism and Regeneration Pillar of the £1bn Belfast Region City Deal (BRCD).

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The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) launched a competition on behalf of Belfast City Council to name a design team.

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Tina Black said: "We've chosen to partner with RIBA to attract the very best in design for our ambitious, landmark visitor experience, which is a key part of our Belfast Region City Deal programme of investment.

"Belfast Stories will be a major tourism anchor, reflecting the unique spirit of our city through a variety of media and a mix of immersive, authentic experiences, stories, screens and social spaces – with Belfast's people and personality at its heart. So it's only fitting that the design and architecture will be of the highest calibre."

It is anticipated that up to five teams will be shortlisted and invited to participate in the design phase of the competition. 

The deadline for applications is midday on 01 November 2022.