The changing face of Belfast Laganside

The architecture of Belfast has changed rapidly since the ending of the troubles, more so than any time since the late 19th/early 20th century. Travelling down the river from the Albert Bridge there is little to be seen of old Belfast. Following is the first of an ongoing series of images I am planning to take showing the changing face of Belfast Laganside, as the city turns again towards the river from which so much of its history emanates. 

The above panorama, is of the Titanic Quarter, taken from Clarendon Dock on the other side of the river. Notable recent developments are from the left Titanic Studios, Titanic Centre, the Belfast Metropolitan College, the Abercorn Residential Complex and the Odyssey Arena. This was an evening shot in early October just as the light was beginning to fade.

The primary architects of The Odyssey were Consarc Architects and the main contractors Farrans & Gilbert Ash. The building was completed in 2001/2 at an approximate cost of £50M. The client was the Odyssey Trust Company and it was the overall winner of ‘RICS Excellence in the built environment’ award in 2002.

The second image again featuring the Odyssey, taken in September, this time early morning just after sun rise. Thanks to the Tall Ships arrival in 2009, Belfast now has an 80 berth marina within a stone’s throw of the city centre.

The Belfast Harbour Marina, situated in the Abercorn Basin was built in 2009 to accommodate the Tall Ships Festival in that year. Initially with 40 berths it was extended this year to 80. The designer/architect was Walcon Marine Ltd and the main contractor Ashleigh Contracts Ltd.

The third image features the Abel Tower at Donegall Quay, Ireland’s tallest building - a mixed commercial and residential development. It includes the M3 flyover and railway to/from Central Station with the lights of a train as it passes over the river.

The Obel Tower was designed by Broadway Malyan Architects with main contractor O'Hare & McGovern. Completed in 2011 on behalf of the developers Donegal Quay Ltd at a cost of approximately £75M and sold this year for something in excess of the asking price of £20M - and not the winner of any excellence awards as far as I am aware!