Beannchor, owner of the Merchant Hotel in central Belfast, has submitted plans to renovate Lagan House and convert it into a 55-bedroom hotel. Lagan House is an office block previously occupied by the Department of Justice.

The new hotel will be 'technology-led'  with work space featuring desk top computers with access for both residents and non-residents, high-speed wi-fi and charging points for mobile devices - plus a restaurant and bar, coffee shop and courtyard garden.

Subject to planning approval, Beannchor expects the 55-bedroom hotel to open in 2016.