A news website with a searchable business database filtered by county and service category.

We are looking for an experienced website developer to build a custom platform that combines a modern news website with a searchable business directory. This is not a standard brochure website or a simple AI-generated build. The project involves custom functionality, database structure, advanced search capabilities, and a user experience that allows visitors to easily discover both news content and businesses across Ireland. Project Overview The platform will have two primary components: 1. News Website Similar structure to leading news websites such as Journal.ie Categories and subcategories Featured articles and trending content Search functionality Mobile-first responsive design CMS for managing and publishing content 2. Business Directory Businesses can create and manage listings Users can search businesses by county and service category Individual business profile pages Filtering and search functionality Lead generation/contact options Directory structure similar to platforms such as constructionireland.ie and ESDA.ie Key Requirements We are looking for someone who has experience building... Custom directories Content-heavy websites Advanced search and filtering systems User account systems Scalable database structures SEO-friendly platforms Responsive web applications Nice to Have Experience with news or publishing websites Experience building marketplaces or directories Strong understanding of UX/UI Experience with SEO implementation Experience integrating payment systems for premium listings To Apply Please include.... Examples of similar directory, marketplace, listing, or content websites you have built. Your recommended tech stack for a project like this. Whether you would build this using WordPress, Laravel, React, Next.js, or another framework and why. Your estimated timeline. Any recommendations you would make based on similar projects you have worked on. We are looking for a developer who can help architect the platform correctly from the beginning rather than simply building pages from a template.