CONSTRUCTION work has finally commenced Olympic House in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, almost six years after the £30 million project was originally granted planning approval.
A co-development between Belfast Harbour and Titantic Quarter Ltd, the project could eventually house 1,500 jobs when completed.
Piling and enabling works were completed last summer on the site next to Belfast Metropolitan College.
Newry-based O’Hare and McGovern has now started building the 150,000 sq ft ‘grade A’ office development.
The construction phase is expected to support 250 jobs.
Olympic House will comprise two linked blocks of six and seven storeys, including a feature atrium. The development also includes a basement car park.
Graeme Johnston, Belfast Harbour’s property and place director, said: “Belfast Harbour’s ambition to develop a thriving economic hub for the region has never been more relevant, as we work with key partners to support the NI economy to ‘Build Back Better’ from the pandemic crisis.
“Our partnership commitment to develop Olympic House will facilitate 1,500 jobs when complete and we are pleased to play our part in supporting 250 local construction industry jobs, as building work gets underway.
“The development will be one of the most modern office buildings in the city, offering accommodation which will support both growing indigenous businesses and new market entrants.”
James Eyre, commercial director, Titanic Quarter described it as an exciting development for the area.
“We are pleased to see work commencing which will add a further 150,000 sq ft of grade A office space to support the growth of our local economy.
“Over £480m has already been invested in Titanic Quarter which has attracted a diversified range of local and global occupiers who have established or expanded their Northern Ireland operations here.
“This is another important milestone as we move from masterplan to reality and we look forward to welcoming interest from occupiers.”
Seanie O’Hare of O’Hare and McGovern said: “This is an exciting and prestigious development in an area of historical importance, and we will be working with some of the best in the construction industry.
“It sends out a hugely significant message to local, national and international investors that Belfast is continuing to build for the future, and OHMG are delighted to be part of that process.”
