Belfast City Council's Planning Committee has approved a diverse range of new developments this month, set to bring two new hotels, two nursing care facilities, and a major apartment conversion to the city.

The hospitality sector is set for a boost with two new city centre hotels receiving the go-ahead. Lindsay House on Callendar Street will be transformed from its current mix of fast food, retail, and office space into a 76-bedroom hotel complete with a ground-floor bar and restaurant. Nearby on Rosemary Street, former office and retail units will make way for a smaller 30-bedroom hotel featuring an on-site café and guest facilities.

Local healthcare infrastructure will also expand significantly following the approval of two new residential care developments. At Cromac Place, the former Halifax building will be converted into a large 156-bedroom nursing home, which will feature a specialised scanning unit, offices, and landscaped grounds.

In east Belfast, the historic Grade B1 listed Netherleigh House—previously the headquarters for the Department for the Economy—will be converted into residential and nursing care facilities. This project includes extending the existing office block and constructing 36 assisted living apartments across two new four-storey blocks. In another major heritage project, the former Good Shepherd Centre on the Ormeau Road has secured its long-term future. The Grade B1 listed building will be converted into a residential complex consisting of 28 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. The plans include a ground-floor extension, a reconfigured external layout with updated parking, and a brand-new access point from the Ormeau Road.

Councillor Ryan Murphy, Chair of Belfast City Council's Planning Committee, said: "We have had a range planning applications through Planning Committee this month which will benefit our residents and visitors alike, through the provision of much needed accommodation in our city.

"It's great to see plans approved that will further enhance Belfast's tourism infrastructure, increasing accommodation capacity and providing visitors with a wider range of hotel options.

"It's also good news for residents with the approval for the development of new apartment dwellings in the south of the city.

"The approval of two new residential care facilities, is also good news for local residents. These facilities will help meet the growing demand for care services and ensure that more people can access quality care services and further the council's agenda of supporting older people in our communities."

To learn more about the local planning system or view recent committee decisions, visit the official council website at www.belfastcity.gov.uk/Planning.