The Department for Social Development has said that it will be re-inviting applications for the EXPO West Architectural Design Competition.

The competition, originally launched in November 2010, aimed to secure a landmark design for the DSD-owned site at 519 Falls Road.

The design competition, supervised by the Royal Institute of British Architects and the government's Central Procurement Directorate, was successful in attracting a large number of very strong proposals from both international and local design teams. Regrettably, following the initial assessment stage, which produced a shortlist of 5 design teams, a challenge was made in respect of the process. As a result, the Department has agreed to re-invite applications.

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A spokesperson for the Department said: "While this is a disappointing setback, we will continue to work towards our long term aim of delivering a building of real quality at this prominent site in west Belfast. I would like to emphasise that all panel members acted in good faith and followed the advice of the supervising bodies. The challenge raised related to the technical procurement procedures only."

The proposal for an Expo Centre comes from the Andersonstown Gateway Feasibility Study, published by DSD in March 2009, which looks at the potential for economic development in the wider Andersonstown area. The role envisaged for the EXPO West is as a showcase for regeneration and the arts and as a hub for local services. In design terms, the objective is to set a new standard for innovation and design in west Belfast, as well as to create a local landmark at this strategic site.

(CD)