London & South East Premier Construction

H & J Martin Ltd

H&J Martin
Written by Roma Publications

H&J Martin

H & J Martin build fit and maintain projects across the commercial, leisure, retail, healthcare and education sector.

The firm delivers a range of projects across the UK, Ireland and Europe and was founded in 1839 by Henry Martin, who was joined by his son 40 years later.

The firm have over 170 years experience in the construction industry and so have played their part in the creation and development of many landmark developments. Since its inception the company has worked in various different countries including England, Ireland, Scotland and Romania offering a variety of services to an array of clients.

H & J Martin Ltd were awarded the main contract for Belfast Welcome Centre, the official tourist information centre in Belfast; following their appointment works started on site in July 2013. The contract was completed by November 2013 and saw the property, which previously housed a bank, converted into a multi-functional modern space.

Carried out on behalf of Belfast City Council the 20 week project saw the building’s ground floor – which formerly comprised the banking hall – converted into the new Welcome Centre. The conversion involved the removal of an existing internal division and finishes and the installation of high quality services such as audio-visual equipment and impressive display technologies implemented to inform visitors.

The building’s existing ramped access at the entrance was replaced and the interior of the venue was upgraded to include internal and external signage, graphic materials, counters, literature, information and retail displays. The venue also boasts impressive video walls, interactive displays, and tables, as well as touch screen PCs, hand held devices and media walls. Self-service ticket kiosks were also installed during the transformation alongside a new dedicated Telecoms and Data installation which provides high speed broadband.

The venue’s basement has been adapted and now contains a kitchen facility and storage areas. The mezzanine level contains office space which has been converted for use by the Belfast Visitor & Convention Bureau. The building’s lift access was also replaced as part of the works programme and the building’s mechanical and electrical services were replaced and upgraded as appropriate. The final aspect of the £1.8 million project involved the upgrading and improvement of the existing external facade at ground floor.

H & J Martin Ltd illustrated their flexibility and varying skills during their impressive restoration works at Mount Stewart House. The firm was appointed by National Trust to lead a significant £7 million restoration project to conserve the mansion. The contract has secured work for 40 employees for a three year timeframe. Commenting on the appointment of H&J Martin to Mount Stewart Restoration project Heather Thompson, Director for Northern Ireland, said:

“We are thrilled to have H&J Martin onboard to take forward this amazing project. This is important news in the current economic climate, and especially with the difficulties facing the construction industry. Mount Stewart is one of the most significant 18th century estates left in Ireland. We want to breathe new life into the house, transforming the decayed elegance back to the glamour of bygone years.”

The property has remained open to the public throughout the works meaning that H & J Martin Ltd has had to schedule their works programme around the property’s hours. Visitors have been able to see the works in progress and observe the impressive building being upgraded step by step.

 

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Roma Publications