Construction partner Farrans Sacyr held a ’topping out’ ceremony of the new Belfast Grand Central Station which was marked with a ceremonial tightening of the last bolt in the highest point of the steel structure.
Employees from Translink and the Department for Infrastructure were also in attendance.
When complete, the project will bring further transformation of public transport in Northern Ireland. It will greatly improve both local and international connectivity by establishing efficient bus, coach, and rail networks throughout Northern Ireland and extending beyond its borders. Moreover, the initiative will prioritise the development of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, promoting sustainable modes of travel and contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Julie Harrison, Permanent Secretary for Department for Infrastructure said: "It is great to see the progress on this important flagship project, which reflects the hard work of the Translink project team, various contractors and suppliers who have got it to this stage.
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"The outline of the new station is already a striking addition to the city’s skyline. When complete, the new station will bring a host of benefits to support the local economy and bring together many aspects of how we travel more sustainably, including greener and cleaner travel by bus, rail and cycling."
Chris Conway, Translink CEO said: "Reaching this momentous point in the construction of Belfast Grand Central Station is a key milestone and I commend the hard work and commitment of everyone who has been involved to bring this project to this stage. It is becoming evident now the facility is taking shape, just how impressive the new station will be once it is complete, and it is certainly attracting a lot of interest.
"When completed in 2025 it will be the largest integrated transport facility on the island of Ireland and will contribute to the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of Northern Ireland and Belfast."
Duane McCreadie, Project Director for Farrans Sacyr Joint Venture, said: "Our team, working in collaboration with our client and all partner organisations, has made excellent progress on Belfast Grand Central Station and we remain on programme as we hit the topping out milestone. Everyone involved in this project has played a role in that success to date and I would like to commend them for their hard work and commitment to a high-quality end product, particularly in the face of the challenges that we have faced together."
