Construction on Loftlines, one of Belfast’s most ambitious regeneration schemes, is moving forward at speed, with the project set to deliver 778 new homes in the heart of the city and mark the first major residential development in Belfast in 25 years.
Located in the Titanic Quarter, the mixed-tenure scheme represents a major step in addressing Northern Ireland’s chronic housing shortage. Loftlines will combine the region’s first Build-to-Rent (BTR) homes with social housing, discounted market rent units and private rental apartments, creating a modern, sustainable neighbourhood on one of the city’s most historically significant waterfront sites.
The first milestone is now in sight with 81 new social homes nearing completion at Dargan House, which will be owned and managed by Clanmil Housing Association. Representing an investment of £18.6 million, the homes are funded by Clanmil with support from the Department for Communities and the Housing Executive’s Housing for All Shared Housing Programme. With around 49,000 households on Northern Ireland’s social housing waiting list, the delivery of these first homes marks a critical early step in easing pressure on the city’s housing system.
Anthony Best, Managing Director of Lacuna Developments, co-developer of the site, said the project is set to “redefine modern living” in Belfast.
“Loftlines is a unique blend of homes and shared outdoor space which we believe will set a new benchmark for regeneration in the city,” he said. “Seeing construction progress so quickly — and the first homes reaching completion — marks a pivotal milestone in the long-term vision for this site.”
Lacuna is developing Loftlines alongside Watkin Jones, the UK’s largest residential-for-rent specialist. The company’s CEO, Alex Pease, said the project will deliver far more than new homes: “This is about creating a vibrant urban neighbourhood that sets a new standard for city-centre living. Loftlines looks to Belfast’s future — supporting growth, energising the city centre and delivering a place where people want to live, work and build community.”
Clanmil’s Executive Director of Development and New Business, Jan Sloan, said the new social homes will have an immediate impact.
“We are delighted to be the first element within Loftlines,” she said. “These modern, energy-efficient homes will help meet urgent housing need and provide local families with stability, opportunity and a sense of belonging.”
At the heart of the development is the introduction of Northern Ireland’s first large-scale Build-to-Rent offering, supported by a £150 million investment from Legal & General. The BTR element will deliver 627 modern homes across one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts. With pet-friendly units, on-site management and a comprehensive suite of amenities, the scheme aims to bring the rental experience offered in cities like Manchester, Dublin and Leeds to Belfast for the first time.
L&G’s Head of Multi Family BTR & PBSA, Adam Burney, said the concept is a game-changer for the city.
“Build-to-Rent is a completely different experience from traditional private rental,” he explained. “These homes come with amenities that are second to none — gyms, co-working spaces, roof terraces, private dining rooms, resident lounges and even a pet wash facility. With 24/7 on-site support and extensive public realm space, Loftlines sets a new benchmark for city-centre living.”
The first BTR homes will welcome residents in Spring 2026, with both short- and long-term rental options available.
The development also includes 70 premium private rental apartments in Lady Pirrie House, while the scheme’s masterplan incorporates independent retail space, a creche, landscaped parks and a walkway connecting to the Maritime Mile, encouraging walking, cycling and sustainable transport.
Beyond its housing and placemaking ambitions, Loftlines is already making a significant economic contribution. More than 650 jobs are currently supported by the construction programme, with numerous local suppliers engaged across each phase. Sustainability has also been embedded from the beginning, with the aim of delivering a greener, healthier and more connected urban community.
Reflecting on the project’s progress, Anthony Best added: “Loftlines is not only the first major residential scheme in a generation — it’s a blueprint for a sustainable and responsible way of living in Belfast. We are proud that it is already delivering jobs, investment and regeneration, and that we are now close to welcoming the first residents into this remarkable new community.”
