The Arches Centre

The Arches Centre

The bold, colourful Arches Centre is a beacon of health and regeneration for its east Belfast neighbourhood. It is one of three new Community Treatment and Care Centres designed to provide a range of health and social care services under one roof.

  • The Arches Centre 1
  • The Arches Centre 2
This is a remarkable achievement and a wonderful building. In talking to people as I walked around, it is obvious that there is a very high level of cooperation and commitment. HRH The Princess Royal
  • The Arches Centre 1
  • The Arches Centre 2

The two-phase project involved the extension and transformation of a busy but uninspiring health centre housing a host of medical services including seven separate GP practices. This remained fully operational while a new four-storey block was constructed next to it.

  • The Arches Centre 1
  • The Arches Centre 2

The doctors then moved into the new building while the existing block was stripped down to its concrete frame and substantially remodelled inside and out.

  • The Arches Centre 1

The new building has a striking street facade with bright aluminium panelled windows and a three-storey artwork above the main entrance. The two blocks are linked by a generous glazed atrium – a dynamic, landscaped space featuring sculptural staircases, waiting balconies and a light-based art installation.

Designed in partnership with Todd Architects.

  • The Arches Centre 1
  • The Arches Centre 1
  • The Arches Centre 1

Awards

  • Civic Trust Award - The Rollercoaster Centre: Commendation
  • Health Estates, ‘Recognising Design Merit’ - The Arches Centre: Winner
  • RIBA Award - Prior Weston School Temporary Accommodation: Winner
  • Building Better Healthcare Awards, ‘Best Community Care Design’ - Beech Hall Wellbeing & Treatment Centre: Highly Commended
  • Building Better Healthcare Awards, ‘Best Use of Art in Hospitals’ - The Arches Centre & The Bradbury Centre: Winner
Client
  • Belfast Health and Social Services Trust
Status
Complete
Size m2
6,300
Completion Date
2005
Structural Engineer
  • Price & Myers LLP
M&E Engineer
  • Max Fordham LLP
Landscape Architect
  • Gillespies LLP