Various commercial projects are planned for Belfast's Titanic Quarter

The Titanic Signature Project, the Connswater Community Gateway and plans for a new park by Belfast Lough are among 23 UK-wide projects shortlisted.

The three schemes are in line to receive development grants of �250,000.

In September 2007, the Big Lottery Fund's Living Landmarks programme will decide where to allocate a small number of grants between �10m and �25m.

The final decision on the major grants will be made by a committee which includes experts in architecture, regeneration and the environment.

'Maritime heritage'

Stakeholders in the Titanic Signature Project hope to create a visitor centre by 2012 - giving a Belfast perspective on the ill-fated liner, in time for the centenery of its sinking.

The project could cost up to �100m, using a combination of public and private money.

A scheme to transform the Connswater River is planned

Welcoming the lottery boost, Titanic Quarter chief executive Mike Smith said they were planning "world-class facilities, entirely fitting to Belfast's maritime heritage".

Giants Park would be a themed park located on the north foreshore of Belfast Lough.

Belfast City Council plans educational facilities, various pathways and public art.

It would also build a distinctive access bridge over the M2 motorway.

The Connswater Community Gateway would involve creating a parkway following the course of the river and other waterways through east Belfast.

It would connect a number of green spaces along the course of the river, making them more accessible to the local community.