Cllr Catherine Curran said: “This is one of the most important architectural and historic buildings in Belfast that we should preserve for future generations.
“I proposed at Belfast Council’s Planning Committee that we should oppose any demolition proposal and so I am disappointed by this decision by the Environment Minister today.
“We must ensure that we get the right balance between building for the future as well as well preserving the past. This is such a well known building that is easily recognisable and would be a loss to our city if it was demolished.”
ENDS