Historic Assembly Rooms Sparkle for Fleadh and Future Generations

Great news for North Belfast and beyond! Our historic Assembly Rooms, a true gem located on the corner of North Street and Waring Street, are undergoing a fantastic transformation. Significant conservation and public realm improvements are now well underway, breathing new life into this landmark as Belfast prepares to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann from August 2-9.

Vacant since 2000, the Grade B1 listed building dates back to 1769 and is one of Belfast’s most architecturally and socially important public spaces. These vital works aim to safeguard the Assembly Rooms for future generations and act as a key catalyst for regeneration in the surrounding area.

Initial work includes the development of a conservation management plan by Belfast-based James Grieve Architects, establishing a framework for the building’s future. New exterior signage will also enhance understanding of its significance for visitors, improving its presence ahead of a full capital works project. The Department for Infrastructure has also begun resurfacing Donegall Street, including footpaths and traffic lanes near the Assembly Rooms, further enhancing the public realm.

A major part of this first phase involves remedial façade works – weatherproofing, repainting based on historic analysis, emergency façade conservation, window treatment, and new planting. Our council cleansing team has already completed a deep clean of surrounding pavements, with all these immediate physical works expected to be finished by the end of July, just in time for the Fleadh celebrations.

Councillor Joe Duffy, Chair of the City Growth and Regeneration Committee, highlighted the significant investment in these heritage assets. "In tandem with the progress on the nearby Belfast Stories, we are investing to ensure these wonderful heritage assets are given life, purpose and relevance for generations to come," he stated. He emphasised strong public and political support to bring the Assembly Rooms back into use in a way that reflects its historical and cultural significance.

The Assembly Rooms hold a special place in Irish culture, having been the heart of the famous Belfast Harpers' Assembly in 1792. It’s fitting, then, that Belfast harpist and composer Ursula Burns will be performing outside the building on Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 August during the Fleadh. The venue will also host a stage for free pop-up sessions daily from 11 am to 9 pm, inviting everyone to perform. Further harping heritage events, including a talk and recital at St Anne’s Cathedral and a historical talk at Clifton Street, are planned for Tuesday 4 August. More information on these events can be found at fleadhcheoil.ie/whatson.

Looking ahead, an interior lighting scheme is being explored to enhance the building's prominence, and essential works to ensure structural soundness are being specified. The Council is partnering with the World Monuments Fund (WMF), who included the Assembly Rooms in their 2025 World Monuments Watch, a biennial programme highlighting global heritage sites facing urgent challenges. WMF has provided both financial and expert support, commissioning a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan, expected later this summer, to guide future restoration and development. A parallel Conservation Management Plan is also underway for the neighbouring Grade B1 listed Braddell’s Building.

Magnus von Wistinghausen, Executive Director of World Monuments Fund Britain, praised the Assembly Rooms as a building of great historic significance and architectural merit, representing exactly what WMF aims to protect. He expressed delight in helping safeguard its future and return this remarkable part of the city's heritage to the community.

The restoration and reuse of heritage buildings is a key priority for local council efforts. This initiative is part of wider city centre regeneration, building on programmes like the Vacant to Vibrant scheme and other projects like the new LGBTQIA+ Hub planned for 2 Royal Avenue.