A proposed partnership between Belfast City Council and the BBC for the Belfast Stories project has been delayed after Sinn Fein lodged a formal challenge. The move could force the council to revisit a decision made earlier this month that would have seen the broadcaster become an anchor tenant at the planned £100 million tourist attraction.

The Belfast Stories project aims to transform the disused former Bank of Ireland building, an art deco landmark on Royal Avenue and North Street, into a destination combining visitor attractions and spaces for Northern Ireland's creative industries. The building, nearly a century old, is to include studios for television, radio and online content if the BBC partnership proceeds. Plans also feature a public space and roof garden, with the facility expected to open by 2030 and draw 700,000 visitors a year.

The dispute became public in March during a council meeting when a Sinn Fein councillor disclosed the BBC's proposed involvement before the meeting moved into closed session. The party subsequently lost a vote that appeared to clear the way for the partnership, but has now used a call-in mechanism to potentially send the decision back for further debate. Sinn Fein representatives have also indicated they may consider legal action.

Sinn Fein says its objection is rooted in concerns over a major public project entering into a financial relationship with a state broadcaster. However, DUP group leader Sarah Bunting argued the party is allowing its opposition to anything British to obstruct progress for Belfast. She contended that if the proposed partner were RTE instead of the BBC, Sinn Fein would support it without hesitation.

Bunting said any major project using public funds should be subject to proper scrutiny, but that such scrutiny should not serve as a smokescreen for ideological objections. She called for the project to be assessed on its merits and the benefits it would bring to the city, including strengthening the creative sector and delivering value for ratepayers.

The DUP councillor warned that delaying the flagship development risks job creation and damage to Belfast's reputation. She said residents would question why a project designed to celebrate the city is being stalled simply because the BBC is involved.