Gilbert-Ash Chosen as Fit-Out Contractor

Gilbert-Ash has been chosen to work on a ground-breaking project which will help position Northern Ireland as a global leader in innovation and business.

The company was appointed as fit-out contractor at Merchant Square. The £14 million project will see the creation of 200,000 sq ft of Grade A office space over nine floors. The new offices, which are exclusively let by PwC, will accommodate up to 3,000 employees at the former Oyster and Royston buildings in the heart of Belfast’s business district adjacent to the City Hall.

Gilbert-Ash Managing Director Ray Hutchinson said the company is delighted to be working on one of the most prestigious projects to be undertaken in Belfast in recent years.

He said: “It is always great to be working on a landmark building in our home city of Belfast, but this is extra special as Merchant Square really will be a leader on the international stage. We have been working with excellent local partners to bring this stand-out fit-out project to life, with advanced logistical planning and management during what has been a challenging year for many industries, including construction.

“Earlier this year we completed our new £5 million headquarters at Boucher Place in the city, which was a very proud moment for Gilbert-Ash. It is a privilege to follow it up with this project which has the power to be transformative for the city, in terms of helping to position Belfast on a global stage as a centre of innovation.

“The designs for Merchant Square are a celebration of Belfast’s industrial and linen heritage as well as a number of Northern Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Harland & Wolff cranes. The themes running throughout the building will give nods to the city’s shipbuilding and aviation industries as well as Belfast’s history as a centre of the linen industry.

“The building will also reflect the geography of Belfast with the River Lagan and Botanic Gardens incorporated into designs.

“This will be a building which will help foster an excellent working environment and help inspire and attract the best people to work in Belfast.”

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