Leading Ireland and UK property development and investment company MRP has unveiled plans for the first development of the 1.5m square foot Weavers Cross project in Belfast.

An authentic street food market and community hub will be created as part of one of the city's largest ever regeneration developments.

MRP is the Master Developer for the transformational project, which is set to create a vibrant inclusive neighbourhood combining a mix of commercial, cultural, residential and business amenities surrounding Belfast’s new integrated Grand Central Station.

MRP has worked collaboratively with partners to bring forward the first project in the Weavers Cross development scheme marking a dynamic step towards revitalising this area of the city, at the site of the former Europa Buscentre.

Commenting on the application for the food market and on the transformational opportunities that Weavers Cross presents for the regeneration of this part of Belfast, Paul Beacom, Development Director of MRP, said: "Weavers Cross provides a generational opportunity to elevate and regenerate a brownfield site to create an exciting new sustainable destination in the heart of Belfast. It will help to stimulate wider economic growth, while supporting local communities and driving social value.

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"Reinventing and reimagining the use of the former Europa Buscentre provides a fantastic meanwhile opportunity in the form of a street food market, entertainment and exhibition space that will help drive footfall and bring culture, vitality and vibrancy to the area. 

"We are looking forward to creating interest and opportunity for the indigenous as well as international food market traders to showcase their business at Weavers Cross and be part of this regeneration journey. The food market will also help support wider businesses in the area reinforcing the pedestrian thoroughfare from Great Victoria Street through the Mall to the new Grand Central Station and beyond to neighbouring communities."

The new artisanal food market, and bar, will create up to 40 jobs and has already received considerable interest from a range of traders.

As a new hip city destination known as the 'Halt', it will sit alongside a bespoke innovation and community hub, called 'Platform', which is anchored and operated by Co-operation Ireland, the all-island peace-building organisation.

The new community hub will provide an inclusive space to support and enrich a range of local community initiatives, while the long-term plans for Weavers Cross take shape.

Subject to planning, the new food street market and entertainment facility is expected to open in the summer this year. Outline planning permission for the Weavers Cross redevelopment was previously approved in 2023.

Pedestrian connections and access to the former Bus Centre will be maintained throughout the site, including Glengall Street, Great Northern Mall and St Andrews Sq.