PROJECT PROFILE
SEAMUS HEANEY CENTRE, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY BELFAST
University’s requirements and respected the building’s heritage.” A commitment to quality craftsmanship was also evident in the completed project from the restoration of original features to the installation of new fittings. While construction got underway in July 2022 and was originally scheduled to wrap up in August 2023, practical completion was only achieved in June 2024 due to delays stemming from the building’s listed status. “The biggest challenge with this project has been working around the conservation of the building and trying to keep it in its original condition as much as possible,” said Eddie. “The existing windows were to be retained and refurbished but, because of the condition the windows were in, that just wasn’t doable. “We ended up having to go with new sash windows throughout, which the Historic Environment Division accepted, as we were able to demonstrate it couldn’t be done. By the time you tried to save the window, there was just nothing left of the wood.”
Another obstacle was encountered only weeks into the project, when GEDA had just gutted the building and was about to commence piling for installation of a new lift shaft. “It was difficult enough getting a mini rig into the footprint of the existing building and then, once we were able to get it in, we hit a lot of obstructions,” said Eddie. “We encountered old foundations that nobody knew were there.” Setting back the programme by three to four weeks, the unexpected obstruction required a redesign of the piling layout and a slight change to the lift shaft position in collaboration with the engineer and piling company. A complex M&E installation, meanwhile, included upgrades and new systems for ventilation, lighting and access controls. “Working within the confines of a listed building was quite a challenge,” said Eddie. “It was quite difficult to fit in all the M&E services within existing floor makeups. It took a substantial amount of time for the M&E coordinator just to get all of that aligned so there were no clashes, and everything would work.” Having successfully navigated the many
challenges emerging along the way, the Seamus Heaney Centre now represents a distinguished addition to GEDA’s portfolio. “A significant milestone for our company, it reflects our ability to handle complex, high-profile projects and reinforces our reputation as a trusted and capable construction partner,” said Eddie. “This project stands out as a testament to our expertise, collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment to preserving
cultural heritage while advancing modern construction practices.”
Client: Queen’s University Belfast Main contractor: GEDA Architect: Michael Whitley Architects Project manager: Gleeds Management Services Ltd PROJECT TEAM...
Structural engineer: Doran Consulting Ltd
M&E engineer: Williams & Shaw Ltd
36 Moor Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone BT71 4QB T: +44 (0)28 8774 7600 - E: info@geda.co.uk www.geda.co.uk
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