13
Mar 2025
- BY Kevin Barry BSc(Hons) MRICS
- POSTED IN Latest News
- WITH 0 COMMENTS
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As of March 2025, several significant construction projects are planned to commence in Northern Ireland during the 2026/2027 period. Here are the top 10 projects:
- Casement Park Redevelopment: The long-delayed redevelopment of Casement Park in Belfast aims to transform the derelict Gaelic games stadium into a modern facility with a capacity of over 34,000 seats. Despite previous funding challenges and delays, efforts are ongoing to secure the necessary investment to commence construction by 2026.
- Belfast Harbour Deepwater Quay: Belfast Harbour plans to invest £90 million in upgrading its port facilities, including the construction of a new deepwater quay. This project is designed to support upcoming offshore wind energy projects and accommodate larger cruise ships, with construction expected to begin in late 2027 or early 2028.
- NI Railways Rolling Stock Upgrade: Translink has announced plans to procure new rolling stock for NI Railways starting in 2026. This includes 15 three-car bi-mode or tri-mode units for domestic services and nine eight-car sets for the Enterprise service between Belfast and Dublin, aiming to enhance capacity and reduce emissions.
- Enterprise Train Service Enhancement: The Belfast–Dublin railway line is set to receive new trains in 2027, funded by a €165 million investment from the PEACEPLUS Programme. This upgrade aims to reduce journey times to under two hours and improve accessibility and passenger experience.
- Weaver’s Cross Development: Adjacent to the newly opened Belfast Grand Central Station, the Weaver’s Cross project plans to develop a new neighborhood featuring leisure, residential, and commercial facilities. Construction is anticipated to progress in phases, with significant developments expected to commence by 2026.
- Galgorm Castle Estate Transformation: The Galgorm Collection has acquired the Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and plans a £22 million transformation. The project includes enhancing the golf course to elevate its status and developing luxury hospitality amenities, with construction expected to begin in 2026.
- Roe Park Resort Redevelopment: Alongside Galgorm Castle, the Roe Park Resort in Limavady is set for a £28 million redevelopment. Plans include the creation of a bespoke adult-only spa and other luxury facilities, with construction slated for 2026.
- Wrightbus Manufacturing Expansion: Wrightbus, based in Ballymena, has secured a contract to supply up to 1,200 electric buses to the Go-Ahead transport group. This £500 million investment will support around 500 manufacturing jobs and necessitate the expansion of production facilities, with construction of new production lines expected to commence by 2026.
- DART+ Coastal North Electrification: Part of the broader All-Island Strategic Rail Review, this project includes extending the electrified rail network from Malahide to Drogheda. While primarily in the Republic of Ireland, it enhances connectivity to Northern Ireland, with construction phases planned around 2026/2027.
- All-Island High-Speed Rail Study: A proposed high-speed rail line connecting Belfast, Dublin, Cork, and Limerick is under study, with potential construction phases beginning post-2026. This ambitious project aims to transform rail connectivity across the island.
These projects reflect Northern Ireland’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, supporting sustainable energy initiatives, and boosting economic development in the coming years.