Award-winning contractor and property developer, Heron Bros Ltd has delivered one of Belfast’s most significant new Grade A office developments with the completion of The Paper Exchange building on Chichester Street.
The 11-storey office block comprises a concrete and steel frame structure with brick, render and striking façade of ‘Scorched Earth’ aluminium rainscreen panels and glazed screens. Key features include an eye-catching, double-height ground floor entrance lobby, six passenger lifts, core areas encompassing toilets and a Category A fit-out on Level 8, designed for showcasing purposes to potential tenants.
Located in the heart of the city centre at 43-63 Chichester Street, the Grade A office scheme can accommodate up to 2,000 people and represents a major boost in confidence for international investment in Belfast.
Challenges and solutions
The project encountered substantial challenges, notably the early onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, which prompted implementation of a meticulous set of Safe Operating Procedures to ensure the safety of workers. Additionally, challenges arising from Brexit and the war in Ukraine impacted material access, necessitating strategic planning to circumvent increased lead times.
Space constraints posed another challenge, and made material ordering and delivery planning a daily task. JP Higgins, Heron Bros Associate Director, explained, “As there was limited space on site, we split the build into two phases. The concrete frame (Phase 1) was prioritised over the steel frame (Phase 2) to give us additional footprint to bring in and set down materials. When we lost this space, the ‘Just in Time’ delivery method was the only way we could keep critical tasks moving and so planning was key. The site team excelled on this front.”
Heron Bros adopted an innovative 4D programming strategy, collaborating early with main package sub-contractors to devise an optimal sequence of works. This approach ensured a realistic yet appealing project timeline for the client, Wirefox.
Forward thinking
Heron Bros has invested heavily in technology and innovation. The integration of technologies like Procore, Sustain IQ and the MyHeron App streamlined documentation and recording processes, from quality assessments to health and safety monitoring.
“We have also engaged in the Lean philosophy which encouraged our team to reduce waste, not just of materials, but also of time,” said JP. “We saw great results in terms of the team being more productive and efficient in the tasks they carried out daily, and this benefitted the project greatly.”
Safety took precedence throughout the project. A dedicated Health and Safety Officer was on site to drive daily briefings and ensured that high-risk tasks were identified and the necessary risk assessments and work permits were in place. Workforce education was promoted through on-site training, and the MyHeron App provided accessible resources for health and safety awareness.
“Due to the location and nature of the build, H&S was paramount from the off,” explained JP. “Through effective communication and buy-in from the sub-contractors, we were able to complete the project with zero reportable incidents.”
As part of the contract, Heron Bros produced a full floor, Cat A fit-out to assist Wirefox with their letting process. “Through engagement with the client we were able to complete this section of the build in earnest and we also facilitated the visits for viewing by various potential tenants before the project was complete,” said JP.
Unique features
The ground floor lobby’s double-height space showcases distinctive features such as oak glulam columns, roof beams and full-height glazing. The three-dimensional floating oak reception desk adds a unique touch. “Another client-specified feature of the project was the black and satin anodised metal wall cladding around the lifts. This created a clean and striking space that really sets the building apart from others,” added JP.
He concluded, “We take great pride in providing a world-class space at the heart of Belfast City Centre and redeveloping a previously derelict site. We consider The Paper Exchange as a landmark building that will be a feature on the Belfast City Centre skyline for years to come, and will no doubt be the home of many globally recognised brands.”
For the full feature on The Paper Exchange, check out NIBuilder Issue 34-4 Aug-Sept here.
