Clodagh Rice

Invest NI chief executive Kieran Donoghue defended withholding details about why Cantor Fitzgerald abandoned a planned 300‑job investment in Belfast, arguing disclosure would damage commercial trust and deter investors. Committee members sought information about a meeting between the firm and Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald, but Donoghue said the company insisted discussions remain confidential. He emphasised the need to maintain investor confidence, noting the firm informed him on 17 March that it would not proceed.

A revised redevelopment proposal for a large derelict site in Belfast city centre shifts focus from the controversial Tribeca plan to a housing-led scheme featuring 1,000 homes, two hotels, refurbished listed buildings and new public spaces. Castlebrooke Investments has submitted a pre‑application notice and appointed consultant Gerry Hughes to lead the project, emphasising integration with the city’s historic character. The site’s long‑stalled redevelopment history, past planning approvals and recent property sales to Belfast City Council frame the renewed effort, with public consultation scheduled before a full planning application is submitted in the autumn.