Planned tall buildings in Belfast will have to meet new design guidelines, set to be unveiled by NI Environment Minister Arlene Foster.

Speaking ahead of a special event, the Tall Buildings Conference, the Minister said her intentions were to provide design guidelines that will advise both developers and the general public. 



The proposed guidelines will also assist the Planning Service in its assessment of development proposals, which include taller buildings.


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Minister Foster said: "There is an increasing trend in the demand for development to go higher than has previously been the case. Tall buildings can have an immense impact on our landscape, and my announcement will ensure that a more strategic approach is taken to this issue."

"The new guidelines will also ensure that proposals are not simply considered and determined on a purely ad-hoc basis. The guidelines will be a useful tool in helping to shape the form of development in Belfast over the forthcoming years," added the Minister. 



Proposed guidelines will compliment current design policy framework, which is emerging from the Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan. The Ministers department will also be seeking advice from design consultants.

There is an increased trend for tall buildings, particularly in the Belfast city centre area.

(PR)