The NI Construction Awards are poised to set a new record this October, with nearly 850 attendees expected at ICC Belfast for the largest event of its kind ever staged in Northern Ireland.

The sold-out ceremony will bring together professionals from across construction and the wider built environment to celebrate excellence, achievement and innovation. Architect and TV presenter George Clarke will co-host alongside broadcaster Claire McCollum, with 27 awards recognising standout projects, businesses, individuals and teams.

CEF Chief Executive Mark Spence commented: "We are delighted by the response to this year's awards and incredibly proud to be bringing the industry together on such a scale.

"Construction is one of our largest sectors and makes an enormous contribution not only to our economy, but to the communities and places in which we live, work and invest. From building homes and delivering major infrastructure to creating jobs, supporting supply chains and driving innovation, the industry touches almost every part of our economy and society.

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"It is fantastic to see the awards go from strength to strength, recognising achievements and the exceptional projects, partnerships and delivery across not only Northern Ireland but throughout the UK and Ireland.

"Most importantly, these awards are about the people behind the projects - the businesses, teams and individuals whose skills, expertise and hard work deliver for their clients every day. There is a huge amount to be proud of and this is our opportunity to recognise and celebrate that.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone to ICC Belfast for what promises to be a truly memorable night."

Formerly the CEF Excellence Awards, the programme has been a fixture of the construction calendar for more than 25 years. The 2026 edition ushers in a new name, a move to ICC Belfast and a partnership with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Mineral Products Association Northern Ireland (MPANI), expanding its reach to the broader built environment community.

Fiona Graham, Sales Specialist at headline sponsor Payapps, added: "The scale of this year's event, with more than 800 guests coming together at ICC Belfast, is a fantastic reflection of the strength and importance of the construction and wider built environment sector across Northern Ireland.

"We are proud to play a part in what will be the biggest awards night of its kind ever held locally and look forward to celebrating the achievements of the industry with everyone at this landmark event."

The evening will also support Little Heroes, an independent charity which fundraises exclusively for the Children's Hospital. The NI Construction Awards 2026 take place at ICC Belfast on Thursday 1 October.