Over £8.5million to improve Belfast's Arts infrastructure

Arts and Culture Minister Edwin Poots MLA has announced public funding of over £8.5million for the refurbishment of the Ulster Hall.

Making the announcement during a visit to the landmark building in Belfast’s city centre the Minister said: “I am committed to delivering improvements to the arts and cultural infrastructure in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland. Today’s announcement follows closely on my announcement last week of over £2million funding from the North West Challenge Fund for six arts and cultural capital projects in Londonderry.

“The refurbishment of the Ulster Hall will preserve one of Belfast’s most notable and irreplaceable architectural assets and will breathe life back into a unique, much loved venue which has supported a wide range of arts and cultural events over the years.

“It is further evidence of Government’s strategy of encouraging arts and culture to lead the way in Belfast’s social and economic regeneration. When completed it will improve the cultural provision throughout the city and enhance the quality of life for the people of Belfast.

Edwin Poots highlighted the importance of providing the Ulster Orchestra with a home worthy of such a national asset. “The Ulster Orchestra is one of the jewels in the cultural life of Northern Ireland. As an internationally acclaimed institution which regularly attracts renowned conductors and guest performers from all corners of the world the orchestra deserves a permanent home worthy of such a national asset.”

The Minister pointed out that funding for the project had come from a number of sources. Belfast City Council has committed over £4.6million, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure £2million, the Heritage Lottery Fund £1million, Arts Council of Northern Ireland £687,000, and the Environment and Heritage Service £200,000.

He Continued:

“While the City Council is the major funder, I welcome the significant contribution from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Heritage Lottery Fund and from Environment and Heritage Service which recognises the value of this venue. By working in partnership we can invest in and improve our arts and cultural infrastructure for the benefit of both local people as well as the increasing number of visitors who come to the city.

“I wish Belfast City Council well as they take forward this important project and look forward to visiting the Ulster Hall again when it re-opens in all its splendour next year.”

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office. Tel: (028) 9025 8901 or email press.office@dcalni.gov.uk