Bank Buildings, Primark, Belfast (£30m)

SBEM, EPC

Located on Royal Avenue, the Grade B1 listed Bank Buildings has been a Belfast icon since 1900. Originally consisting of an existing façade refurbishment, along with a large extension in the form of Commonwealth House, the project was targeted to complete in the run-up to Christmas 2018. Weeks before completion, a fire tore through the Bank Buildings portion of the project, resulting in extensive damage to the existing façade.

The Commonwealth House extension was saved from fire damage and began operating in 2018, while the existing building was meticulously restored to its former glory. Handing over October 2022, BPP’s involvement spanned 6 years and various simulations to assist along the project’s duration. The newly operational full development plays host to extensive retail spaces, as well as a nail bar and café, all operated under Primark, and is a welcome reinstatement of a landmark building.