MARTIN were appointed as main contractor on this prestigious restoration project for Castlereagh Borough Council.

As part of an ongoing tourism project to re-open large sections of the Lagan Canal for the general public, the Industry Lighter was the final part of the jigsaw adjacent to the recently restored Lock-keepers Cottage.

The primary elements of the work consisted of the following:

• Excavation and disposal of 900m3 of clay and topsoil
• Supply and install 320m3 of consolidated stone subbase
• Supply and place 480m2 of flexible surfacing and 1-3mm pea gravel in epoxy resin
• Drainage reconfiguration
• Kerbing & fencing
• General lighting
• Mechanical installation
• Piling
• 350T crane on contract lift.

One of the major challenges on this project was the relatively small footprint where the work had to take place. After the site clearance and drainage alterations, it was necessary to enlarge the footprint with temporary works to allow the crane and the dual axle lorry to fit into the site.

At approximately 50T, the barge was lifted into its final position in little more than two hours, but the extensive planning made the process much easier.

The finishes schedule utilised several high quality finishes, and it is a tribute to the tradesmen involved on the scheme that the project was handed over on time and within budget.

The interior fit-out comprising several salvaged items has resulted in an educational space enjoyed by schools and visitors.

The scheme was finished off with soft landscaping provided by The Landscape Centre which increases natural beauty of the scheme.

The hard & soft landscaping has complemented the entire project, with the adjacent café enjoying higher visitor numbers during and post-contract.