Belfast City Council has encouraged commercial owners who have vacant properties in Belfast city centre and occupiers hoping to take up vacant space in the city centre to apply for the 'Vacant to Vibrant' scheme.

The scheme provides capital grants of up to £25,000 to cover external and internal works, as well as equipment to make the property fit for use. Estate agent, Frazer Kidd, is available to help with finding suitable tenants or meanwhile uses for the property.

Councillor Clíodhna Nic Bhranair, Chair of the council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: "We’ve already awarded over £300,000 to 17 Vacant to Vibrant applications so far, including High Society Cut Club, Skull and Bones Tattoo Studio, Hench Gym, Flax Art Studios and Verona Bridal. That investment has helped to create approximately 60 employment opportunities, as well as bringing vibrancy and occupancy to properties with long-term vacancy.

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"Vacant to Vibrant is not only providing a significant boost for local independent businesses, organisations, and commercial property owners, it’s having a significant positive impact on our wider supply chain and city economy and making Belfast a more attractive place to live, work, study, visit and invest in. The scheme is also helping to restore historic buildings and buildings of interest and enhancing our streetscapes. I’d encourage any commercial owners who have a city centre property that’s been vacant for 12 months or more to get in touch with our team to see if we can help them bring their building back to life."

Applicants will also receive comprehensive support from the council’s Enterprise and Business Growth team. This support package includes resources tailored to assist in launching or expanding businesses or organisations. It includes access to personalised mentoring sessions and workshops aimed at facilitating growth and ensuring long-term sustainability. In order to receive the funding, the city centre property must have been vacant for at least 12 months.