Belfast's Victoria Square retail complex and the Braid Arts Centre in Ballymena were named last week among the best development projects completed in Britain and Northern Ireland during recent years.

Both were commended in the regeneration section of the highly prestigious Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) awards, which reward both British and international buildings.

Victoria Square and the Braid were among 15 construction projects to collect accolades in the coveted awards at a gala ceremony in London.

"Both these impressive local buildings have made a significant impact, bringing investment and visitors and significantly contributing to the regeneration of their locality," RICS Northern Ireland Director, Ben Collins said.

"They are testament to the skills, expertise and professionalism of chartered surveyors and other property and construction professionals in Northern Ireland."

-- Advertisement --

The awards recognise a full spectrum of projects worldwide, from small schemes achieved by the vision and persistence of one person, to multi-million-pound budget, globally recognised developments.

Opened in March 2008, Victoria Square is a high quality urban regeneration scheme in the centre of Belfast. Previously an urban backland, this area of the city divorced the existing retail areas from key components of the broader city.

Victoria Square has helped to create a new urban quarter linking up key areas of the city, such as the recently developed Laganside area of Belfast. The scheme comprises nearly 63,000m2 of retail floorspace on two covered streets, anchored by a flagship House of Fraser store. It also includes a multi-screen cinema, a two-level food court, restaurant terrace, and 106 apartments.

In contrast to the old city centre culture of closing at 5.30pm, shopping now stretches into the night, with restaurants opening late most evenings. This has led to increased employment opportunities for the local community, as well as leisure and recreation facilities.

The design as an open 'streetscape' model has emulated the existing urban environment and integrates well with the city. Its dramatic glazed dome has already become an iconic image on Belfast's skyline, attracting local people and visitors with its panoramic view of the city and beyond.

The owner is Commerz Real AG, the developer, Multi Development (UK) Ltd, the contractor, FGA (Farrans Gilbert Ash), the architect BDP T+T Design b.v. (concept only), C & S/M & E Engineer, BDP, quantity surveyors, Cyril Sweett Theobald & Gardiner and the management is by Victoria Square Management.

(BMcC/KMcA)