Review of AGM

Last Thursday afternoon, LQ BID was delighted to welcome members to The Clayton Hotel for our Annual General Meeting (AGM). As we were unable to hold an AGM in 2020, we took the opportunity to discuss the work of the BID during the pandemic, update members on our current projects, and exclusively reveal the new parklet, located on Bedford Street outside Pug Uglys bar

Summary of AGM

Guests were welcomed by LQ BID’s Managing Director, Chris McCracken, before our out-going Chair, Paul Johnston, spoke to attendees, highlighting the three years he has chaired the BID and what was achieved during his time.

Belfast’s Bolder Vision

Strategic Director of Place and Economy at Belfast City Council (BCC), Alistair Reid, provided an insightful update to business members on BCC’s most recent public consultation, ‘Belfast’s Bolder Vision’ for the City Centre. Attendees were given a chance to ask questions and provide their feedback on the consultation, which is open for comment until the 23^rd of December 2021. Details can be found here: https://yoursay.belfastcity.gov.uk/bolder-vision

BID Project Update

MD Chris McCracken provided an overview of the last 12 months, including key achievements of the BID, acknowledging the two new City Centre parklets, and future plans as we look to 2022. Chris also highlighted our upcoming festival – RE[act] 2021, which aims to integrate Northern Ireland into the global conversation on sustainability, and position the Linen Quarter as NI’s first Sustainable District. More info here: https://reactfestival.co.uk/

Governance and Formalities

Our annual accounts were presented and approved by the board. The BID’s Incoming Chair, Blair Mayne (BBC) was also formally voted in. Final comments were made by Blair, who will take forward the role at a very exciting time for LQ BID.  Our MD paid tribute to outgoing Chair and Deputy Chair, Paul Johnson (Arup) and Phil Donaldson (Limelight), for their hard work, vision and support for the work of the BID. Our new Deputy Chair, Sarah Cull (Danske), and Treasurer, Colin Mounstephen (Deloitte) were also announced.

Bedford Street Parklet Launch

Following the presentations, guests were invited to Pug Uglys for the launch of the new parklet, complimentary drinks and pizza. The parklet is a fantastic addition to LQ, particularly for Pugs, who will now have the opportunity to extend their hospitality services outdoors. Members were given a Linen Quarter Welcome Back Pack, which included a LQ coffee card worth £25.00, information on services, the RE[ACT] Festival and our Street Beat contact details.

For more information on any of the above, please do not hesitate to get in touch: info@linenquarter.org