Some of Northern Ireland’s freshest building projects are in-line for an industry award, recognising their contribution to regeneration in the province.

A total of 11 northern entries will vie for the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Northern Ireland awards, sponsored by Mullusk-based manufacturer Brett Martin.

The shortlisted entrants range from a Belfast city centre office block to a Newry castle.

One overall winner will be selected from amongst four category winners, including Building Conservation and Regeneration.

Entrants include Belfast’s Adelaide Exchange, Bagenal’s Castle in Newry and the extension to Belfast’s Grand Opera House, the Baby Grand.

Other shortlisted building features include the Courtyard, Drumnabreeze House, Magheralin.

-- Advertisement --

This particular project encompassed the renovation and rescue of a derelict Georgian courtyard to create state-of-the-art stables for race horse training, offices for 15 people, four houses, entertainment loft area for social and charity events, plus a gym on the first floor.

RICS Northern Ireland Awards Chairman, Alex Mackay said: "The winners of these awards, in addition to demonstrating excellence in their specific category and a positive contribution to the community, should demonstrate how professionals have used their skills to develop, regenerate and conserve the world in which they live, work and play."

Winners of the Northern Ireland Awards will go through to compete in the overall RICS Awards, with the winners announced in London in October.

Past award winners have included prestigious projects such as the site of the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, the Bullring in Birmingham, London’s Royal Opera House and the Eden Project in Cornwall.

Brett Martin Director of Building Products, Joe Doyle, said: "The shortlisted entrants demonstrate the diversity and creativity that exists in the built environment in Northern Ireland and highlight the positive impact that building projects can have on people’s lives."

There are over 3,000 Northern Ireland RICS members, in addition to 140,000 members worldwide.

The organisation represents, regulates and promotes the work of property professionals throughout 120 countries.

(PR)