PROJECT PROFILE
SHANKILL SHARED WOMEN’S CENTRE, BELFAST
With the aim of the new building to create a welcoming, safe and accessible shared space for women and their families from all communities, the team operating the existing Shankill Women’s Centre is working with Clonard Neighbourhood Development Partnership, including Clonard Women’s Group, at the new premises to deliver services. The primary objective is to continue the work of the previous centre at the larger 2,700sqm premises, providing training, education, childcare, health and wellbeing awareness, and young women’s activities. Young local women are also encouraged to get involved in the management and staffing of the centre. During the works, P&K McKaigue held monthly meetings with all key stakeholders to keep them aware of any issues. It was agreed the agenda should include progress against programme (% actual and % planned) with progress photographs and updates on utilities, health & safety issues, sustainability and site security. Padraig McKaigue, Contracts Director, said, “This project was delivered on time and budget using procedures contained
within our Integrated Management System. All subcontractors were selected on merit from a pre-determined list based on suitable qualifications and experience. Fortnightly meetings with supply chain members were used to clear any defects from the previous meeting and plan the following two weeks of work. “Health & safety was of high importance in carrying out the construction works. The existing site is set in a contentious interface, and the site had basically been used for bonfires over the last few years. Secure fencing was installed immediately on inception of works and checked daily to ensure continued security. Asbestos contamination was present on the site and had to be removed safely by a specialist subcontractor.” P&K McKaigue delivered social value on the project, achieving 151% against its target, with initiatives including paid employment for LTU, work experience, employability skills training, interview technique, CV writing, site visit and taster days. Working in partnership with Hydebank Wood College, Edenderry Nursery, Small Wonders and Shankill Women’s Centre,
the contractor provided craft resources to create stylish artwork impressions, which were displayed on the site perimeter and unveiled by former Belfast Mayor Christina Black. “We completed the works with excellent care and attention to the wishes of stakeholders and the local community at the heart of all design decisions,” said Padraig. “Prior to construction, there was some opposition to the project, as some members of the community felt the site should have been used for social housing. However, the overwhelming opinion is now one of pride and appreciation of the new community asset.” Client: Belfast City Council Main contractor: P&K McKaigue Ltd Architect: Todd Architects Mechanical engineer: IN2 Engineering Structural & civil engineer: Design ID Landscape architect: Park Hood PROJECT TEAM...
181 Glen Road, Maghera BT46 5JN T: +44(0)28 7964 2101 - E: mail@pkmckaigue.com www.pkmckaigue.com
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