iReach
The Institute for Research Excellence in Advanced Clinical Healthcare (iREACH) is a groundbreaking project set to transform medical research in Belfast. This 8,500m² state-of-the-art facility, funded through the Belfast Region City Deal initiative, will provide specialised spaces for clinical trials, research and associated enterprise activities.
Designed to foster collaboration and innovation in medical research, iREACH comprises two strategically located buildings on either side of Lisburn Road, adjacent to Belfast City Hospital and Queen’s University Belfast Medical Biology campus.
Each building is expressed as a single lightweight aluminium volume supported by a sculptural brick podium and expressed gable. This design creates a holistic response to the dual-site arrangement, establishing a clear formal relationship where the separate buildings visually “interlock” despite being separated by a major thoroughfare. Textured brick coursing and aluminium fins add detail and articulation, responding to both the Lisburn Road streetscape and the larger contemporary buildings of the adjacent City Hospital site.
Building A integrates with Belfast City Hospital via a bridge link, housing essential research spaces and clinical areas.
Building B, replacing the former Radius Housing tower, focuses on innovation with shared amenities, offices, incubator spaces and advanced laboratories.
The project aims for BREEAM Excellent certification, emphasising sustainability and cutting-edge research capabilities.
Construction is set to begin in Autumn 2024, with completion expected by Autumn/Winter 2026, marking a significant advancement in Belfast’s medical research infrastructure.
