A spokesperson on behalf of Titanic Quarter Ltd said:

"Titanic Quarter is one of the largest mixed-use developments underway in Europe and additional hotel space is an integral part of that mix. 

"One of the options being proposed is a five-star boutique hotel which includes an extension to the former Harland & Wolff Headquarters building, replacing a wing which was previously used as an accommodation block. Given the enormous global interest in the Titanic and the building's close associations with the ship, such a hotel will add to the Northern Ireland tourist experience.

"The plans have been devised in consultation with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and will help ensure that the building is appropriately refurbished and restored."

A separate planning application was lodged in January of this year to restore two Drawing Offices, which also form part of the former Harland & Wolff Headquarters building, and make them available for public events.

The 185-acre Titanic Quarter development is expected to attract significant numbers of visitors.  The recent Tall Ships festival attracted 500,000-plus visitors to Belfast's waterfront while the Titanic Signature Project is projected to draw c. 400,000 visitors annually.  Other commercial, residential, leisure and education developments such as the new Belfast Metropolitan College and Public Record headquarters will also help drive demand for new hotels.

ENDS

For more information please contact:

Jonathan King (077646 27297) or Mark Sterling (07858 045 418) at Stakeholder Communications

 Notes to Editors:

Titanic Quarter

At 185-acres, Titanic Quarter is one of the largest urban waterfront regeneration schemes in Europe. The mixed-use site will provide residential, commercial, leisure, education and heritage space. Upon completion it's anticipated that 20,000 people will work or live within Titanic Quarter.  Titanic Quarter is a co-promotion between Titanic Quarter Ltd and Belfast Harbour.