Belfast Grand Central Station has been shortlisted for the Irish Building & Architect of the Year 2026, recognising the project’s significance as both critical infrastructure and a new civic gateway for the city.

Designed by John McAslan + Partners with Arup as Multi-Disciplinary Engineer for Translink, and delivered by RPP Architects as Contractor Architect, the £340 million development is the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland.

With capacity for 20 million passenger journeys annually, the station anchors the transformative Weavers Cross regeneration and plays a central role in strengthening regional connectivity, including the Belfast–Dublin corridor. The project represents a major investment in Northern Ireland’s infrastructure, supporting sustainable growth and long-term urban renewal.

Its expressive sawtooth roof – inspired by Belfast’s industrial linen heritage – combines architectural clarity with engineering innovation. Developed through close collaboration between architecture and engineering teams, the design brings generous daylight deep into the concourse while integrating low-carbon strategies, including photovoltaic panels and passive ventilation. The result is a calm, intuitive and energy-efficient environment centred around a light-filled public heart.

The adjoining Saltwater Square further reinforces the station’s civic role, creating the city’s largest new public space in over a century and establishing a welcoming setting at the heart of the future Weavers Cross neighbourhood.

This shortlisting reflects the strength of collaboration across architecture, engineering and delivery teams in creating inclusive, sustainable and city-shaping infrastructure.

https://www.buildingoftheyear.ie/shortlist#building-of-the-year-public