Belfast·LDP Plan Strategy 2035 (adopted 2023)·Page 183·8.4.8

Replacement of Tourism, Leisure and Cultural Facilities

When a tourism, leisure or cultural facility is to be removed, a similar or better replacement facility must be provided in the same locality and be readily accessible by pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport.

Where the tourism, leisure and cultural facility is deemed to be no longer economically viable, a viability report is required if it is proposed to close the facility and develop the land or convert building for alternative uses. The applicant will have to provide clear evidence that the existing facility or alternative proposal for a tourism, leisure and cultural facility is no longer economically viable, and that every effort was made to secure a viable tourism, leisure and cultural use. It is important to ensure that the city is offering a variety of attractions and facilities that will appeal to a wide range of visitors and to sustain visitor interest to encourage longer stays in Belfast to benefit the local economy.

Source — /Users/richardhill/Documents/planning-arch-project/data/documents/belfast/LDP Plan Strategy 2035 (adopted 2023).pdf