A Belfast arcade that dates back almost 150 years is undergoing a £2million refurbishment with work underway to restore and revamp Queen’s Arcade.
The project includes the restoration of its original iron signage and façade on Donegall Place, the laying of a new Italian terazzo floor and the creation of new shopfronts.
The arcade dates back to 1880 and was designed by James McKinnon.
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It was updated in the 1930s to accommodate Austin Reed, with the shop fronts redesigned by renowned London shop fitters Frederick Sage & Co, whose other clients included Harrods and Selfridges.
Peter Lunn, Chairman of Lunn’s Jewellers, said: “Queen’s Arcade has been a much-loved part of Belfast for almost 140 years and this £2m restoration will ensure that it remains a popular Belfast landmark for generations to come.
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“While modern alterations have helped obscure what an architectural gem the Arcade is, the proposed restoration will recapture its Victorian splendour and reputation as a home to specialist retailers.
“The recent destruction of the Bank Buildings has been a horrendous experience for city centre retailers, but this city and its people are resilient and we have a vision for its future. We believe Queen’s Arcade has a big role to play in bringing people back into the city centre.”
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