Watts & Hughes were engaged as the Main Contractor to complete the construction of the new Countdown Belfast Supermarket, located within the new Belfast Village Development.

The existing residential housing was demolished first, to provide area for the proposed car parking scheme within the site footprint. This, along with alterations to the completed infrastructure, formed the new Countdown Store site.

The new supermarket consists of large span steel portal frames, with pre-cast concrete panel walls, large front joinery windows, and a Kingspan roof. The RC ground bearing strip foundations and pads provide support for the structure, and also the ground floor slab.

The new supermarket reflects the updated look that Countdown supermarkets have been rolling out over the past few years. Including a variety of cladding and finishes such as timber and tiles. Shadowclad, stainless steel, and polished concrete on the main floor. The main store is your typical supermarket, consisting of back of house, deli, fish, bakery, pharmacy, beer & wine section, and is approximately 3450 sqm.

The new supermarket also includes a 1,700sqm area dedicated as an E-Store, comprising freezer, chiller units, offices, and a new automatic racking system which is specifically fitted out for online click and collect shopping.

The external footprint covers an area of 9,784sqm and consists of walkways, full landscaping, signage, canopies, loading docks, and EV charges.

As a requirement of the Lessee, the design and construction of the project is planned to achieve a 4-star Greenstar rating. This is a general requirement for all new Countdown stores as part of General Distribution Limited’s sustainability plan.