NEW CHAIRMAN FOR TITANIC FOUNDATION
27th June 2007
Brian Ambrose has been appointed as the new Chair of the Titanic Foundation, which was recently established to take the Titanic Signature Project (TSP) forward.
As Chief Executive of George Best Belfast City Airport, Brian brings a wealth of experience from a customer focused private sector organisation. He is the incoming chairman of the CBI and is also a Board member of the Northern Ireland Tourist Industry Confederation.
The Titanic Foundation will be responsible for driving forward the delivery of the TSP which envisages an iconic building located at the head of the Titanic and Olympic Slipways in the heart of Titanic Quarter. Located on more than three acres of the land, the building will be over five storeys high and contain five exhibition galleries which will tell the story of the Titanic. The building will also include a Flying Theatre, Titanic themed banqueting, an exhibition and conference suite, community arts and education facilities, a gallery for temporary exhibitions plus a café, family restaurant and shop.
Commenting on his appointment Brian Ambrose said; “I am passionate about Belfast and about transforming the city into a world class tourist destination. I believe that the Titanic Signature Project can be a catalyst not only for tourism growth but also for city regeneration. I believe this project is a winner and therefore I am willing to commit my time to make this happen.’’
Significantly the Government and the private sector, Titanic Quarter Ltd and Belfast Harbour Commissioners, have committed £65 million to this project subject to a successful bid to the Big Lottery Fund for £25 million. The decision is due to be announced in November 2007.
-ENDS-
For further information contact Tony Millar on 02890 441644
Notes to Editors:
The Titanic Foundation
1. The Foundation was incorporated as a company limited by guarantee with charitable objectives on 27 May 2007.
2. The Foundation is independent – ie not owned by any organisation and will have charitable status
3. The Foundation will own the TSP.
4. Post the Lottery decision, the Foundation will undertake a full appointment process using Commissioner of Public Appointment best practice guidelines.
