The opening of the George Best Hotel is facing further delays, it has emerged.
It had been hoped that the £15million hotel, in the former Scottish Mutual building on Bedford Street in the middle of Belfast, would open in June.
However, the firm behind the project has said their launch date has been “delayed further”. Signature Living added “additional work” has been identified as being required to complete the build.
Belfast Live understands that the construction of a fire escape at the 63 bedroom hotel is an issue that is being looked at by parties involved in the build and statutory agencies involved in signing off on the project.
The hotel has faced some delays previously with reports in February of the opening date being pushed back until June. A June opening now appears to have been pushed back also.
Signature Living boss, Lawrence Kenwright, has previously spoken of his concerns over the complexities of local planning regulations.
The Scottish Mutual building is a Grade B listed building which means there are restrictions as to what can be done during any building work at the premises.
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A number of people who have booked events at the hotel are being contacted to make alternative arrangements.
Asked about the delay, Signature Living said they “met recently with Belfast City Council Officials, as part of the ongoing planning procedures/process”.
A spokesman told Belfast Live: "It has been identified that additional work is now required as set out by (Council/Heritage Authority).
"Unfortunately this will result in our proposed launch date for the George Best Hotel being delayed further.
"The team have been in contact with confirmed bookings/guests, and are making arrangements for refunds, and facilitating alternative arrangements as much as possible.
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"We are very sorry for any inconvenience caused as a result.
"The situation moving forward will be constantly reviewed, as the additional works progress. We look forward to welcoming all guests to The George Best Hotel in the near future."
A Belfast City Council spokesperson said: “We are working with Signature Living in relation to their Building Regulation Applications to the Council.
"We held a meeting at the George Best Hotel on 27 March 2019 with Signature Living and will continue to work with them to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations.”
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