Construction consultants, Gleeds, has been appointed a place on the Belfast Stories project.

After a 12-month competition to secure its place on the design team, Gleeds will oversee project management and design assurance.

The architectural appointment for the project is a partnership between Oslo-based, Snøhetta, and Belfast-based TODD Architects.

As a flagship project of the £850 million Belfast Region City Deal, the 1931 Art Deco Bank of Ireland site on Royal Avenue will be transformed into an interactive, and immersive visitor experience that celebrates the stories of Belfast and provides vibrant social spaces for everyone to enjoy.

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Wendy Langham, Programme Director at Belfast Stories, said: "Reaching this important project milestone is a crucial stage in the project, and we are delighted to appoint a consortium that we believe not only has the experience to create a state-of-the-art, city landmark but also shares in the Belfast Stories vision – to create a space for everyone that demonstrates and celebrates the spirit of Belfast. We had an overwhelmingly positive response to the competition which attracted the highest calibre of talent."

Tim Hanna, Director at Gleeds, said: "Our experience of managing other city-based projects, such as the PwC headquarters at Merchant Square and The Seamus Heaney Centre, will serve us well as we take the lead on project management and assurance for Belfast Stories. We’re proud to have been selected to lead the team and I’m confident that we'll deliver a visually striking, sustainable place which unites locals and visitors and benefits Belfast culturally, socially and economically."

The new visitor centre is set to open by 2029.