The incredible plans to transform Belfast waterside at the eastern bank of the River Lagan have been unveiled. The plans, which have used the redevelopment of Copenhagen harbour as a model, will cover 6.5-hectares with the aim of delivering an area which people use all year long through the development of new housing, infrastructure and offices along with pedestrian and cycle-friendly zones.

The waterside development is set to be a big talking point at the Northern Irelands Development Plans Conference to be held in Belfast.

Plans highlight housing as a key focus with 750 new homes set to be created, as well as a hotel, leisure and office space. A new pedestrian and cycle bridge to link the banks of the river, as well as additional leisure and shopping facilities, also form part of the intentions for the waterfront location which would ‘bring a Nordic understanding of outdoor living to Belfast’. The ambitious designs would integrate the River Lagan into the community so that it no longer acted as a barrier, but isn’t connected the city together better.

The innovative designs, by Henning Larsen Architects, draw inspiration from Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist destination – the Giants Causeway – which sees buildings step up and away from the water. The tiered form of the proposed buildings would ensure incredible views down the river, whilst also sheltering the waterfront from wind in a bid to make the area usable for a larger portion of the year. It’s been calculated that by reducing the wind speed along the riverside front then outdoor areas could remain comfortably in use for up to 25 weeks of the year – in contrast to the 9 weeks the city’s inclement weather typically permits.

Other inspiration from the Giants Causeway can be seen within the stones and geometric patterns used, with a honeycomb formation of the basalt stone stacks seen there.

Join us to hear more about the incredible projects and development plans in the country at the Northern Ireland Development Plans Conference.