Lost Belfast

Some of the lost architecture of Belfast – through neglect, the Belfast Blitz, and redevelopment.

1916 – Picture Theatre , Duncairn Gardens, Belfast

From The Building News, August 16 1916: “This cinema theatre, illustrated to-day has been recently erected in Duncairn Gardens Belfast,

1870s – Benn Hospital, Clifton Street, Belfast

On the corner of Glenravel and Clifton Streets in Belfast, and constructed as a Eye, Ear, and Throat hospital, but known after its benefactors George and Edward Benn.

1957 – McLay Memorial Hall, Henry Place, Belfast

Described in the News Letter on May 2, 1957: “A new £14,000 church hall for the congregation of Clifton Street United Presbyterian Church,

1817 – Belfast Royal Hospital, Frederick Street, Belfast

Architect: David McBlain

The Belfast Fever Hospital and General Dispensary, was originally located in Factory Row, before moving to West Street in 1799,

1916 – Lyceum Cinema, Belfast, Co. Antrim

Architect: Charles Adelian Aickin

Opened on 11 December 1916, and designed to seat 1,200 customers, the Lyceum Cinema closed on 29th April 1966,

1956 – Metro Cinema, Dundonald, Belfast

Built at a cost of £50,000, it was the first post-war cinema in Belfast with a balcony. It was an ill-timed venture.

1889 – Fountain Street Hall, Belfast

Architect: Thomas Jackson

Now demolished. Described in The Irish Builder, January 15 1890: “With this issue we give front elevation,

1887 – No. 61-63 Royal Avenue, Belfast

Demolished in 1964, and replaced by horrendous Leicester House by Jackson, Greenan & Down.

1905 – Crane’s Buildings, Wellington Place, Belfast

Architect: Young & Mackenzie

Constructed on the corner Wellington Place and Fountain Street, known as Crane’s Building after the piano warehouse contained within.

1889 – Presbyterian Church Buildings, Beverly Street, Belfast