Subject: Expression of Interest for the Development of 23 Donegall Street/Exchange Place: Rear Area at Belfast Exposed Ground Floor Gallery

Introduction Northern Visions and Belfast Film Festival are currently joint tenants of the back space of Belfast Exposed Gallery at 23 Donegall Street/Exchange Place. We are keen to explore opportunities for developing this space including the retractable covering in Warehouse Lane into a more creative and community-driven venue while maintaining its function as an occasional film screening and exhibition area.

Vision for the Space Our objective is to transform the space into a vibrant cultural hub that complements its existing film-related activities while broadening its community engagement. We envision a welcoming and flexible space that could include:

• A coffee shop to create a social atmosphere and attract regular visitors.

• A retail section showcasing local goods, such as books, crafts, and cultural products.

• A multifunctional venue for small cultural events, including poetry readings, live music, and creative workshops.

• A space for hosting Screen NI and the Northern Visions archive, ensuring accessibility to the public while celebrating our rich audio-visual heritage.

Potential Benefits This development would:

• Enhance the cultural landscape of the area by fostering community engagement and creative expression.

• Support local businesses and artists by providing a platform for showcasing their work.

• Provide a sustainable revenue model to maintain the space.

• Encourage public interaction with the Northern Visions/NI Screen archive and independent film culture.

Next Steps We invite interested stakeholders to collaborate with us in shaping this vision. We welcome expressions of interest from individuals or organisations who share our enthusiasm for cultural development and would like to discuss potential partnerships or funding opportunities.

Please feel free to reach out to us to explore possibilities and arrange a discussion at your earliest convenience.

Contact Details: info@northernvisions.org

We look forward to engaging with potential partners who share our commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive cultural space.

Best regards,
Northern Visions & Belfast Film Festival