BBC deal in jeopardy for studio use in Belfast attraction

BBC deal in jeopardy for studio use in Belfast attractionImage source, Belfast StoriesImage caption, Belfast Stories is expected to open in 2030ByMark SimpsonCommunity correspondent, BBC News NIPublished1 hour agoA proposed deal between the BBC and Belfast City Council over a new studio is in jeopardy due to opposition led by Sinn Féin.A council committee has voted against a commercial agreement linked to the £100m Belfast Stories development in the city centre.Sinn Féin said the council "should not have a financial relationship with a state broadcaster".However, attempts are being made to try to reverse the decision taken by the City Hall committee.Another vote may be taken on Wednesday evening by the full 60-member council.It has emerged that a committee voted 11-8 against the plan earlier this month.A Belfast City Council spokesperson confirmed the proposed agreement was for BBC use of an "event space".The Belfast Stories centre is expected to open in 2030, and become a city centre visitor attraction.Based at the site of the former Bank of Ireland building at the junction of Royal Avenue and North Street, it will use words, pictures and sounds to illustrate the city's past, present and future.Image source, Google MapsImage caption, Belfast Stories will be based at the site of the former Bank of Ireland buildingBBC Northern Ireland is keen to become involved.A spokesperson said: "We have been working with Belfast City Council on opportunities linked to a large-scale studio space as part of its Belfast Stories initiative."Our discussions have focused on how such a development could enhance local screen and production capabilities, and its multiplier benefits for the wider creative economy."Sinn Féin is the largest party on the council, with 22 seats, and is against the BBC's commercial involvement in Belfast Stories.A Sinn Féin spokesperson said: "Belfast City Council, as a democratic local authority, should maintai...