The recent closure of Connswater Shopping Centre has marked a significant turning point for the business community in East Belfast. Once a thriving hub of retail, community life, and local employment, its doors closing leaves a visible and emotional gap — and raises urgent questions about the future of business in the area.
Jonathan McAlpin, Chief Executive of East Belfast Enterprise, has spoken out in response to the news, underlining both the impact and the opportunity this presents.
“The sad closure of Connswater is a devastating blow to East Belfast,” Jonathan said. “For decades, it’s been more than just a shopping centre — it’s been an institution and a key source of local jobs. Now, many small businesses are left without a place to trade or grow.”
The Growing Need for Workspace in East Belfast
East Belfast Enterprise has long championed the importance of micro and small businesses — the true backbone of the local economy. With the loss of Connswater, there is a pressing demand for affordable workspace, office units, and retail space in East Belfast to help local entrepreneurs continue their work and remain within the communities they serve.
In the immediate aftermath of the announcement, East Belfast Enterprise responded by offering:
- Business advice and mentoring
- Temporary accommodation for displaced businesses
- Access to support services to help navigate the change
But as Jonathan explains, short-term support is not enough.
“What is urgently needed now is a long-term, strategic solution,” Jonathan said. “We’re calling on the Northern Ireland Executive to invest in the future of East Belfast business. That means creating viable workspace options in the heart of our community — places where new businesses can start, grow, and employ local people.”
There is precedent for success in the area. Spaces like City East, Banana Block, Portview, and local names like Flout Pizza, Boundary Brewing, and Bullhouse East show what’s possible when the right support and infrastructure is in place.
“This is a chance to rebuild something even better — a vibrant business hub that reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of East Belfast,” Jonathan added.
A Vision for the Future of East Belfast
The closure of Connswater highlights a broader issue: a lack of fit-for-purpose, sustainable business premises across East Belfast. To address this, East Belfast Enterprise is calling for:
- A capital fund for the development of new business units
- Prioritisation of workspace development by policymakers
- Partnerships between government and charities like East Belfast Enterprise
“We have the resilience, the ideas, and the people. What we need now is investment and leadership. Let’s not wait until it’s too late for the local businesses that make East Belfast thrive.”
Want to Help Shape the Future?
At East Belfast Enterprise, we remain committed to supporting our local business community. If you’ve been affected by the Connswater closure, or if you’re a policymaker, investor, or entrepreneur keen to support the next chapter of East Belfast business, we’d love to hear from you.
Get in touch with our team.
