Callender House is a four-storey office building located at 58-60 Upper Arthur Street in Belfast City Centre. It was constructed between 1990 and 1991 as a three-storey health club and later expanded and converted into a mixed-use commercial property. The building is situated approximately 150 meters east of Belfast City Hall, making it centrally located for access to the city's business and legal districts.

Features of the Building

• Architecture: Callender House has a contemporary glazed façade, characteristic of modern office buildings.

• Commercial Units: The ground floor includes two retail units currently occupied by 'Arthurs' and 'The Belfast Barbering Co.'

• Office Space: The upper floors are utilised for office purposes, offering flexible space for various businesses.

Location and Surrounding Area

Callender House is part of an urban block that includes several key landmarks:

• NCP Montgomery Multi-story Car Park to the north.

• Montgomery House to the east.

• Arthur Lane to the north.

• Montgomery Street to the east.

• Music Hall Lane to the south.

• Upper Arthur Street to the west.

Although the building itself does not have significant historical importance, it is located in an area with several notable listed buildings, including:

• Grade B2 Listed Buildings: No. 14, 16, and 20 May Street.

• Grade B1 Listed Buildings: No. 18 May Street and No. 37 Montgomery Street.

Planning and Development History

There are no recent planning approvals for significant changes to Callender House. However, historical planning approvals have shaped its current use:

1. Extension Approval (1999): This approval (Planning Ref: Z/1999/2677) allowed for an additional floor to be added to the existing office building. The extension was granted on January 18, 2000.

2. Change of Use Approval (1995): This approval (Planning Ref: Z/1995/2309) authorized the change of use from a three-storey health club to shops and offices, including alterations. This decision was made on September 14, 1995.

Future Development Plans

In July 2024, a planning application (LA04/2024/1322/F) was submitted by Renesa MVG to convert the office space into 18 short-term serviced apartments. The proposal includes internal and external demolition works to accommodate the new apartments. This application is currently under review.