Translink’s Belfast Grand Central Station project has been spotlighted at the prestigious Digital Construction Awards, recognised as a ground-breaking example of digital innovation in infrastructure delivery.  

As the largest integrated transport hub on the island of Ireland Belfast Grand Central Station represented an immense engineering and logistical challenge.

Digital Construction Awards Judges praised the project as: “A stand-out entry that excels in innovation, scalability, and tangible outcomes. The well-executed approach showcases how digital tools can make a tangible impact on both project delivery and long-term operations. This is clearly an exemplar project for the continued adoption of BIM (Building Information Management) and digital engineering within the Northern Ireland construction industry.”

Translink adopted a pioneering BIM-first, outcome-focused digital strategy to manage five major contracts running in parallel—covering enabling works, bridge construction, rail infrastructure, utilities, and the station itself. This approach set new standards in information management and cross-sector collaboration, establishing Belfast Grand Central Station as a model for digital construction and operations across the UK and Ireland.

John Glass, Director of Infrastructure, said: “This project exemplifies how strategic digital innovation can transform complex infrastructure delivery and long-term public service. Belfast Grand Central Station is a symbol of Northern Ireland’s ambition, and our investment in digital engineering is helping to ensure it delivers lasting benefits for passengers and communities.”

Working to embed ISO 19650 standards for the first time, Translink’s digital engineering approach ensured real-time collaboration between multiple contractors, the Department for Infrastructure, regulators, and local communities. Each had unique requirements, and the digital strategy provided a clear framework to manage over 13,000 auditable data exchanges—of which 93% met strict compliance standards.

To support real-time insight and ensure efficient delivery, Translink harnessed Python scripting and Power BI dashboards to automate data validation, saving eight hours of manual processing per week. VR technologies, developed in partnership with Digital Catapult NI, were used to enhance public engagement and stakeholder understanding—delivering an estimated saving of £10,000.

Critically, real-time COBie asset data was successfully integrated into Translink’s Facilities Management system, enabling automated maintenance scheduling, predictive asset management, and a smooth transition into operational life.

Belfast Grand Central Station stands as a flagship achievement of Translink’s Better.Connected strategy—delivering not only a world-class transport hub but also setting a new benchmark for digital innovation and collaborative infrastructure delivery across the UK and Ireland.

At the heart of this landmark project is Translink’s commitment to placing communities first. Through meaningful engagement and inclusive design, Belfast Grand Central has been shaped by local voices and built to foster stronger connections—bringing people together and creating lasting, positive change that reaches far beyond the station itself.