Ireland

High quality office development spearheads major regeneration

Leading a major regeneration scheme, construction of a brand new three storey office development is reported to be progressing ‘extremely well’ on part of the old Clondermot School site in Irish Street, Londonderry, as part of a larger regeneration scheme on the site which is set to provide a massive boost for the area.

The ÂŁ1.2 million office development is being carried out for Waterside Development Trust by Main Contractors P & K McKaigue, with RPP Architects as Project Architects.

“The contractors are doing an excellent job. The scheme is progressing extremely well and is currently around two weeks ahead of schedule” said Mr Bill McBride of Waterside Development Trust.

The 15,000sq ft high quality, high specification office development is geared to benefitting the local social economy market (accommodating training establishments and council activities, for example).

All the office areas will initially be open plan for maximum flexibility, with individual fit-outs being carried out later, to accommodate the needs of particular occupants. The specification includes a high standard interior including suspended ceilings, Category 5 electrics, natural gas heating, and carpeting.

The steel framed building features external elevations in brick and render, incorporating uPVC framed windows and a flat roof.

Externally, a new car park is being constructed and landscaping will be carried out.

Currently the first fit out of the building is underway. The project commenced in February 2011 and is due for completion in November 2011.

The overall development at the Clondermot High School site is being overseen by the Waterside Development Trust and is expected to include a number of other agencies bringing vital educational and health services to the area.

The site became empty after the school moved to a new site at the Crescent Link under a new name, Lisneal College.

Damien McIlroy, from Top of the Hill 2010, which has been closely involved in the consultation process for the scheme, said the Clondermot site development had massive potential for the area, and would entice more young people into further education.

“It is a massive development for Top of the Hill and has massive potential. We want to try and get rid of the image of the Waterside and to try and improve it and this project offers so much potential for what we want. We have to ensure there is access for both communities.”

Local Councillor Lynn Fleming said the development would bring economic benefits for both communities and would be a huge boost in education for the area.

P & K McKaigue Ltd have over 40 years experience in construction industry.  Over the years the company has completed a wide range of construction projects including jobs for the public, private, commercial, heritage and residential sectors.

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