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Brick Works Belfast: Exploring the Sustainable Future of Clay Brick Construction

Brcik Panel Discussion

The Brick Development Association (BDA) returns to Belfast with the latest instalment of its highly regarded Brick Works Series—and this year’s event brings a major highlight: an exclusive panel discussion on the sustainability of clay brick in construction.

Set against the iconic backdrop of the Titanic Distillery, Brick Works Belfast 2025 offers an unmissable evening of architectural insight, networking, and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for construction professionals and built environment enthusiasts.

New for 2025: Sustainability in Focus

A newly announced panel discussion will place sustainability front and centre. Featuring three industry thought-leaders—Nick Blair (Brick and Stone), Alexis Harrison (Arup), and James Willcox (The Sustainability Business Ltd)—the conversation will examine the environmental credentials of clay brick as a building material.

Nick Blair – Brick and Stone

Alexis Harrison – Arup

Key topics include:

  • The inherent durability and 150+ year lifespan of clay bricks

  • Brick’s potential for reuse and recycling at end-of-life

  • The role of clay brick in reducing embodied carbon

  • Natural material advantages: low VOCs, local sourcing, thermal mass

  • Challenges and innovations in decarbonising brick manufacturing

With open Q&A from the audience, this promises to be a rare opportunity to gain expert insight into how clay brick can contribute to a low-carbon, resource-efficient future in UK construction.

Event Highlights

Brick Works events are known for their relaxed atmosphere and invaluable industry connections. Belfast’s edition is no exception, offering an evening packed with inspiration and engagement, including:

  • Drinks reception on arrival
  • Presentations from top architects and engineers
  • Panel discussion on sustainability in brick
  • Complimentary refreshments and local cuisine
  • Networking opportunities with leading professionals
  • Exclusive event gift bag from sponsors and partners

Speaker Line-up

The event will also feature presentations on two standout case studies:

  • Little Victoria Street Student Accommodation

Presented by Stephen Regazzoli (IG Masonry Support) and Maurice Rafferty (TODD Architects) – exploring detailed design and bespoke masonry support in high-rise brickwork.

Little Victoria Street

  • Templemore Baths Restoration

Led by Diarmuid Mullan (Heron Bros Ltd) – highlighting heritage conservation, sustainable refurbishment, and the adaptive reuse of historic structures.

Templemore Baths

Why Attend?

Whether you’re an architect, contractor, specifier, or developer, Brick Works Belfast delivers value-packed CPD content and real-world insights into clay brick’s relevance to modern, sustainable design.

With increasing industry focus on whole life carbon analysis, circular construction, and net-zero targets, this event offers the perfect platform to explore how clay brick is evolving to meet today’s environmental challenges.

How to Book

Tickets for Brick Works Belfast are now available.
Visit www.brick.org.uk to secure your place.

Spaces are limited—early registration is recommended.

Date: Thursday 7th August 2025
Location: Titanic Distillery, Thompson Dock & Pumphouse, Queens Road, Belfast BT3 9DT
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM