Farrans Sacyr Joint Venture (FSJV), the principal contractors overseeing the construction of Belfast's Grand Central Station, has celebrated a significant milestone by reaching 1 million hours of work on the project without a health and safety incident. This achievement comes as the project marks 1,000 days since construction began on this key infrastructure development.

The Grand Central Station, which opened to the public in September 2024, replaces the former Europa and Great Victoria Street bus and rail stations. As a new multi-modal transport hub, it has increased capacity with 26 bus stands, eight railway platforms, and improved walking and cycling connectivity. The station enhances comfort and accessibility, promoting greener, active travel and contributing to the development of a healthier, smarter city.

Translink, alongside partner developers, is also progressing the Weavers Cross regeneration project, which will deliver mixed-use developments around the transport hub, further driving economic growth and urban regeneration in the area.

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Health and safety have been a top priority throughout the construction process. To date, more than 2,500 individuals have been inducted onto the project, and the team has completed over 12,500 hours of training, 600 toolbox talks, and 7,000 daily safety briefings. Bi-annual safety stand-downs have been held, and a dedicated entrance tunnel has been created to highlight the importance of site safety.

Duane McCreadie, Project Director for Farrans Sacyr, said: "Reaching 1 million hours without a RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) event on the main works package is a proud achievement for our team. It reflects the dedication and commitment of everyone on site. We all share the responsibility of maintaining a safe work environment to ensure that every team member goes home to their family each day."

The FSJV team has taken an innovative approach to safety, incorporating behavioural safety awareness initiatives, seasonal campaigns, and timely guidance through videos and updates. In addition to physical safety, wellbeing has been a focal point, with on-site activities such as spin and exercise classes, free health screenings, and weekly fruit bowls.

Mental health support is also a priority, with two mental health first aiders on-site and collaboration with charitable organisations like Lighthouse, which has provided valuable resources and presentations to the team.