A new street food market and community hub is set to open in Belfast city centre as the first phase of the 1.5 million square foot Weavers Cross development. The project, one of the city's largest regeneration initiatives, will transform the former Europa Buscentre site.

MRP, the Master Developer for Weavers Cross, has announced plans for 'Halt', an artisanal food market and bar, alongside 'Platform', a bespoke innovation and community hub operated by Co-operation Ireland. This 'meanwhile use' will precede the larger, long-term development of Weavers Cross, which aims to create a vibrant, inclusive neighbourhood surrounding Belfast's new Grand Central Station. The new street food market is expected to create up to 40 jobs and has already attracted significant interest from traders. "Weavers Cross provides a generational opportunity to elevate and regenerate a brownfield site to create an exciting new sustainable destination in the heart of Belfast," said Paul Beacom, Development Director of MRP. "It will help to stimulate wider economic growth, while supporting local communities and driving social value."

The 'Halt' market will serve to drive footfall to the area, creating a cultural and vibrant space, and reinforcing the pedestrian thoroughfare from Great Victoria Street through the Mall to the new Grand Central Station.

Co-operation Ireland's 'Platform' hub will provide an inclusive space for local community initiatives. "Our move to the former Europa Travel Centre is an exciting development for the organisation," said Ian Jeffers, CEO of Co-operation Ireland. "Weavers Cross will be a catalyst for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous Belfast and locating our offices at the site reflects our commitment to support holistic community spaces and build on our well established our peace and reconciliation work."

Pedestrian access to the former Buscentre will be maintained throughout the development. Subject to planning approval, the new food street market and entertainment facility is expected to open in summer this year. Outline planning permission for the Weavers Cross redevelopment was granted in 2023.