Graham to build first Passivhaus PBSA in Belfast

GRAHAM has started work on Belfast’s first-ever Passivhaus-certified student accommodation, valued at £46 million.

The 16-storey development, on behalf of Queen’s University Belfast, will see Graham construct a 459 bedrooms, aimed at setting a new standard for sustainable student living in Northern Ireland. 

In order to meet the strict standards associated with Passivhaus certification, the development will use minimal energy for heating and cooling, to reduce carbon emissions, and improve comfort for occupants.

The building will consist of a concrete frame with brick and glazed facades, incorporating mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) units and air source heat pumps.

the purpose-built managed student accommodation (PBMSA) will also feature a mix of cluster apartments and studio units and along with amenities such as:

• meeting rooms
• communal and social spaces
• group dining areas
• a post room
• Laundry
• dedicated staff office and welfare facilities

The Dublin Road site aims to be the first ultra-low emission multi-occupancy building in Belfast city centre.

This follows Graham’s appointment to finalise the design for the £20 million Fermanagh Lakeland Forum redevelopment in North Ireland 

Gary Holmes, managing director of GRAHAM’s Building North region, said: “Queen’s University has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing a high-quality, energy efficient development and as a business which prioritises sustainable practices, we are pleased to have been appointed as the main contractor.”

Was this interesting? Costain Group – The lasting legacy of a ‘visionary builder’

If you have a tip or story idea that fits with our publication, please contact the news reporter miles@wavenews.co.uk