The scheme generally consisted of public realm environmental improvement works around the Maureen Sheehan Centre, locate on Albert Street, Belfast. The aim of the project was to revitalise the surrounding area giving it a much-needed face lift.
The main scope of the works delivered a new carpark for the staff working in the adjacent Maureen Sheehan Centre and Health Centre. Due to the split level in the area – Kane Contracts constructed a 100m long retaining wall to facilitate the construction of a new 1000m² carpark area with a new access on to Albert Street.
Due to the location of the carpark being situated along what was previously a public footway, this was a complex piece of engineering requiring a lot of forward planning as there was a heavy presence of existing services – which had to be protected and maintained for the duration of the works.
Prior to works beginning several services were diverted – however BT and Virgin Media cables had to be maintained.
Before and throughout the works Kane Contracts continually liaised with all service providers to ensure that services remained operational at all times.
Additional works completed in the carpark included:
- CCTV – column and wall mounted cameras which linked back to the main Belfast Trust Servers;
- Lighting – new and upgraded column mounted street in the carpark and surrounding streets to shine new light on to the area;
- Fencing – 2.7m High security fencing with Roller Tops to secure the carpark and enclosed buildings from frequent Anti-social behaviour which had been a major issue in the past; and
- Gates – automated Vehicle and Pedestrian gates which linked back to the Belfast Trusts IT network for access controls.
1500m² of footpath upgrades which included a range of surfacing including:
- Kilkenny Limestone Paving;
- Resin Bound Gravel;
- Tarmac;
- Granite Kerbing;
- Bollards; and
- New Street Lighting and Associated Ducting Works.
Due to the footpath works being completed outside numerous local businesses and residential buildings. Kane Contracts planned the works in advance to minimise disruption to stake holders, community groups and residents in the area. This was done through careful planning and phasing of the works and constant contact and updates both before and during the works.
Kane Contracts were proud to safely complete all re-surfacing works with minimal disruption to the surrounding properties, to a high standard which has made a massive difference in the area – much to the delight of local businesses and residents.
This was mainly achieved by working to our programme which we were able to deliver on by using our own staff – without relying on outside contractors.
Due to the location of the work being in a busy area just off the Falls Road and across from the Cathedral, all deliveries were planned in advance for off-peak times to minimise disruption in the area. Kane Contracts operated with a closed Gate Policy to ensure the safety of the public at all times, given the high volume of passers-by including residents, Tourists and Staff from the Maureen Sheehan Centre & Health Centre. Site safety and security measures were continually checked and reviewed by site supervisors to guarantee safety of the public.
This was a complex project due to the scope of the works, busy nature of the area and high risk of anti-social behaviour which has troubled other projects in recent times. Kane Contracts are proud to have delivered the project to a high standard and on time.
