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Belfast Key Facts

Not only does Belfast possess the workforce, transport and telecommunications links to build a strong base from which to serve European and world markets, it offers a sophisticated business environment.

  • Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, its urban heart and its engine for economic growth.
  • Over 700,000 people live in the Belfast Metropolitan area
  • 46% of the population is under 30
  • Labour cost is 15% lower than the UK average .
  • More than 60% of our Secondary school graduates go onto college.
  • Education standards in the city’s grammar and secondary schools are among the highest in the UK
  • A strong university research base and close linkages between university and commerce puts Belfast at the leading edge in world markets
  • A recent study carried out by IBM Business Consulting Services showed that Operating costs in Belfast are up to 32% lower than other UK locations and up to 35% lower than US locations for a software development operation. 

- Key Facts
- Business & Economy
- Population & Workforce
- Transport & Travel
- Education & Training
- Lifestyle & Leisure

Climate

Belfast’s climate is mild and temperate, with mild winters, very little snow and warm summers.

  • Sunniest months: May and June
  • Driest period: March to June
  • Average annual rainfall: 43 inches
  • Average temperature: 10º C (50º F)

Taxation

  • Corporation and personal taxation are amongst the lowest in Europe
  • Capital grants are not taxable – a unique position within the UK
  • Capital allowances are very generous for expenditure on plant and equipment including 100% in the first year for small and medium enterprises
  • Tax credits for research and development were introduced to stimulate scientific innovation for SMEs.

Property

The benefits of setting up on Belfast are second to non to include:

  • Buildings ranging from 10,000 to 100,000sq ft immediately available.
  • Flexible lease terms and occupancy costs amongst the lowest in Europe.
  • Fast easy set-up from acquisiton through fit-out of premises, cabling and recruitment.
  • Easy access to world-class financial, legal, consulting, risk management and other corporate services.

New speculative office developments are widely available in Belfast with rents on average £13.50 per sq ft.  Belfast currently maintains the lowest net-rent in the UK.

Comparison of Global Prime Office Rents

Location

Prime Office Rent

per sq ft (£)

Belfast £13.50
Birmingham £27.50
Dublin £31.05
Glasgow £22.00
London (City) £43.50
London (WestEnd) £75.00
Manchester £26.00
New York £27.86
Madrid £19.24
Paris £40.07
Hong Kong £30.77
Tokyo £64.93

Source:  CB Richard Ellis Global Market Rents, January 2005

(conversion rates as at 16 Feb 2005)

 
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