Translink names contractor to start work on Belfast transport hub

Translink has announced the chosen contractor to carry out initial works for its new transport hub in Belfast.

The project is a step closer as local company Graham is set to deliver essential early engineering works to prepare the site for construction.

The multi-million pound Northern Ireland Executive flagship project, will see the transformation of the 8-hectare city centre site, into a modern, high quality integrated transport hub to enhance local and international connectivity, with bus, coach and rail links across Northern Ireland and beyond.

The new hub will be at the heart of a new city neighbourhood called ‘Weavers Cross’ with mixed-use development proposals. The new infrastructure is part of the ambitions of the draft Programme for Government and Belfast City Council’s Belfast Agenda.

The project in its entirety is due to take up to five years to complete.

Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, said: “These site preparation works will take around 18 months to complete, and will include site clearance, utility diversions, ecology surveys, ground remediation and watercourse and drainage activities.

“This will ensure the site is ready for the main build phase in 2021, and that construction teams and materials are able to enter and begin work safely and efficiently.’’

The initial work will see up to 100 jobs created, with a potential for up to 400 from the entire scheme.

“Local employment opportunities will be developed through Belfast City Council’s Construction Employment Academy,’’ Mr Conway continued.

“We have built up strong links, and have widespread support across the local community, businesses, city stakeholders and political parties for this scheme. We will continue to engage with them in partnership with our contractor as we make progress.

“We have seen strong passenger growth in recent years, and we carried a record 84.5 million passenger journeys last year. The impressive new Belfast Transport Hub will help us to build on this success, with increased capacity vital to delivering our ambitious plans to transform public transport.’’

Co Down-based GRAHAM has worked on Translink projects including the new train maintenance facility at Adelaide Depot and the new Portrush Train Station.

Leo Martin, GRAHAM Civil Engineering Managing Director, said: “Over the next 18 months, our important works programme will ensure the site is ready for the main build phase in 2021 and that construction teams and materials are able to enter seamlessly and begin work safely and efficiently.”