Multi-million pound banking partnership between the Ringland Group and Ulster Bank welcome news for city’s night-time economy

As Belfast’s newest hospitality hotspot, Amelia Hall, prepares to open next week, owners Ringland Group and Ulster Bank have announced a new multi-million pound banking partnership to support future growth and boost the city’s night-time economy.

The £4.75 million pound refinancing of the Ringland Group includes a £1.75 million pound facility to support the development of Amelia Hall, one of the most significant regeneration projects in Belfast’s Linen Quarter in recent years.

The 480-capacity bar, which is set to open on Saturday 7th September, is the latest investment by brothers Ben and Peter Ringland, who operate popular hotels The Flint and The 1852 as well as bars Town Square and Southside Social in the city’s Queen’s Quarter.

The funding package from Ulster Bank will also support the continued expansion of The Flint on Howard Street.

Richard Lusty, relationship director, corporate banking at Ulster Bank, said: “The opening of The Flint on Howard Street in 2018 was an important moment for Belfast city centre and we’re pleased to see the regeneration of the historic Linen Quarter continuing today. We are pleased to be supporting the Ringland Group to deliver this ambitious project which is set to become a cornerstone of the high street and positively contribute towards the local tourism and hospitality sector, both in terms of job creation and encouraging footfall into the city centre.”

Commenting on the new banking partnership, Andy Tew, associate director, corporate banking at Ulster Bank, added: “Our new partnership will help build upon the solid foundation the Ringland Group has created with its incredibly strong brand portfolio and we look forward to continuing our relationship with Peter and Ben over the coming years.”

Peter Ringland added: “The Ringland Group are excited to open the doors of our new bar, pizzeria and beer garden at Amelia Hall on Saturday 7th September. Ulster Bank has been instrumental in helping us realise our vision for Amelia Hall and we are most grateful for their support throughout the build.

“We are excited to partner with Ulster Bank as we expand the group and continue to make a sizable contribution to the Northern Ireland hospitality industry.”

Pictured (from left) are Richard Lusty, relationship director, corporate banking at Ulster Bank, brothers Peter and Ben Ringland of the Ringland Group, and Andy Tew, associate director, corporate banking at Ulster Bank.