Clarendon House, Belfast
Project Description
Demolition of existing offices and construction of new build 126,000 Grade A office accommodation across 9 storeys used as the new headquarters for Belfast City Council.
A challenge faced during construction was linking the existing council owned HQ building, Cecil Ward to the new. This was devised by construction of a link bridge at first floor level which then required re-evaluation of the existing buildings fire strategy and once completed, all main systems linked to the new Clarendon House building.
The project delivered a number of substantial benefits to the client, the first being the ability to consolidate the various council departments into one building, where previously they were spread out across Belfast City Centre. We were also able to hand over the building two months ahead of programme through implementation of a number of cost saving and programming initiatives.
The building was to be handed over in sectional completions however we were able to hand over the entire building on one date thus enabling the client to mobilise staff sooner and break leasing agreements on their current rented accommodation sooner. At the design stage we were able to design out and eliminate the need for an extra floor level whilst still meeting the client’s requirements. This not only resulted in a cost saving for the client but also assisted the programme.
The Site
The development occupies a prime site in the heart of Belfast City Centre and replaces a dilapidated 1970’s nine storey structure which had remained vacant for many years until the redevelopment.
