Magheramorne Development,
Northern Ireland
Bringing value through collaboration
An unusual solution, realised as a result of close client collaboration, will transform the former Magheramorne quarry, the largest brownfield site in Northern Ireland, into a high profile leisure and residential destination.
When Lafarge Cement purchased Blue Circle, it took on both the company’s assets and liabilities. Lafarge’s dedication to leaving exhausted industrial sites in a socially acceptable state meant that a solution was necessary for Magheramorne. Several development plans were formed and abandoned in the years prior to Lafarge’s ownership. As the largest brownfield site in Northern Ireland, finding a viable solution for the derelict cement works and limestone quarry presented an important yet challenging task.
Creative consultations with the client finally produced an unconventional solution: an activity centre. Site conditions proved ideal for a world class cycling course capable of hosting international mountain biking competitions. Combined with scuba diving and nature reserves, the scheme is designed to attract people to the area and establish it as a recreational destination, whilst setting the stage for future residential development. All of this was made possible through thorough stakeholder collaboration with the architects and the client.
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Did you know?
Our expertise has assisted the masterplan architects in turning an exhausted cement and limestone quarry into an eco-friendly resort, neighbouring the northernmost home of the endangered Roseate Tern.
Services provided
- Acoustics & air quality assessments
- Environmental impact assessments
- Geotechnical surveys
- Groundwater & contamination investigations
Project highlights
- The largest brownfield site in Northern Ireland
- Ecologically sensitive design for the protection of endangered wildlife species
- Flagship scheme for ‘One World Living’ housing