An historic building in Belfast city centre has been saved from demolition by the Department for the Environment, it has emerged.

The 'Frames' property, a distinctive triangular building at Little Donegall Street has been 'spot listed' by the Environment and Heritage Service.

A Building Preservation Notice has been issued protecting the building from demolition or major alteration for a period of up to six months.

The news follows proposals to replace the property with a 12-storey apartment block development.

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During the period of the notice, all normal listed building controls apply while detailed research and consultation is carried out to determine whether the structure should be permanently listed.

'Frames' is a large Edwardian building on a triangular site, possibly designed by Fennell circa 1907. Its curved end façade, topped with a conical roof and gothic lantern, makes it an impressive site viewed from Royal Avenue.

Previously a furniture showroom and store, it is now an entertainment complex with a café and restaurant on the ground floor and snooker halls on the upper floors.

The building has been little changed both externally and internally and has good brick detailing. All of its original cast iron columns and riveted beams remain intact. It is well proportioned and it is an interesting example of Belfast, or large commercial premises on an island site where all three elevations are of good quality.

(JM)