§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what was the financial year in which provision was 157W made for the purchase of the Belfast Opera House; what was the amount of the provision; when the expenditure was actually incurred; what was the amount; and who were the vendors.
§ Mr. CarterThe Northern Ireland Department of Education agreed in 1975–76 to provide the Arts Council of Northern Ireland with sufficient funds to purchase the Grand Opera House, Belfast, to make essential repairs to the fabric and to secure the foundations of the building. The building was purchased by the Arts Council in February 1976 at a total cost of £175,000, including fees and preliminary survey. The vendors were Belfast Cinemas Limited.
§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what are the plans for the rebuilding of the Belfast Opera House; who were responsible for drawing up the plans; how they were selected; and when the citizens of Belfast will have an opportunity to see what is planned for their city centre.
§ Mr. CarterThe plans of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland envisage the restoration and redecorating of the Grand Opera House and its opening as a centre for the performing arts in Northern Ireland. The Arts Council selected and appointed Robert McKinstry, Belfast, consultant architect and John Wyckham Associates, Epsom, theatre consultants, for the project. I understand that the Arts Council intends at an appropriate time to mount a progress exhibition on the project in its Belfast gallery.