Approval was given today for work to start on Northern Ireland's biggest ever property development.
The scheme is phase two of a riverside project built around the legacy of the Titanic, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1912 with the loss of 1,500 passengers and crew.
The liner was built at Harland and Wolff shipyard beside the River Lagan. The shipyard, which is now largely derelict, is to become a showpiece for housing, tourism and technology.
Northern Ireland Environment Minister Arlene Foster said today that outline planning permission had been granted for the second stage of the development of the city's Titanic Quarter. The scheme involves three million square feet of new floorspace.
Proposals for the development of the 16.5-hectare site include plans for office, cultural, employment, tourism and leisure space and room for up to 2,000 houses.
At the heart of the scheme will be the Titanic Signature Project that showcases the city's maritime and industrial heritage.
PA