Charles Brand have successfully delivered the Magheracross Viewpoint Project in Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland. Situated on the Causeway Coast Way, a walking trail stretching from Portstewart to Ballycastle, the development has seen two, state-of-the-art, fully accessible, viewing platforms extending out to the edge of the cliffs, maximising the stunning views of Whiterocks Beach and Dunluce Castle. The site now provides panorama to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Rathlin Island, and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland.
Innovation has been at the core of the project for Charles Brand. Innovative Materials used on the Magheracross Project included the use of Exposed Aggregate Concrete for the public footpaths. An innovative process on the scheme also included the use of “Rock Shoes” on the Piles to support the Viewing Platforms. Typically, Mini Piles do not require the use of Rock Shoes. However, due to the potential risk of Piles not being able to key into the underlying bedrock, special Rock Shoes were designed to be used in conjunction with the standard Mini Pile.
The Viewpoint Walkway Platforms are a fundamental and integral element to the overall Magheracross Viewpoint Scheme. The platforms are the focal point for the entire project. In order to drive efficiencies on this project, “lean construction methods” were adopted. The idea to fabricate the platform and undertake a mock “assembly” meant that any potential quality issues were eradicated at source. The mock assembly helped test integrity, served as a quality control process and also assisted with developing robust installation methodologies to safeguard staff on site due to the high risk nature of the installation.
Another key performance indicator for Charles Brand was the use of local supply chain. The use of local suppliers meant assuring accessibility of materials, relatively local to the area. This also added to our sustainability score on the project.
The project has met its expectations on a number of fronts. First and foremost was the safety performance of the project. Throughout the 7-month project duration, the project had zero incidents and was commended for its safety culture by visiting HSEQ managers. The overall objective of the scheme was to provide a state of the art, tourist facility in the heart of the Causeway Coast and we believe this was achieved and something that was endorsed by the visiting Minister during the opening of the Facility. We are delighted to have successfully delivered the scheme for our Client, Causeway Coast & Glens Borough CouncilPatrick Harney, Director
The project represents a significant addition to the tourism infrastructure along the renowned Causeway Coastal Route. The views from both locations are simply breath-taking and the new world-class infrastructure offers visitors a closer appreciation of nature’s wonders along our coastline. We want to encourage sustainable tourism growth within our local economy and through this collaboration we have ensured a high level of quality in the provision of our public spacesCouncillor Richard Holmes, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council
