The family-run building and civil engineering company was tasked with the demolition of the former tax office in the city and the construction of a new commercial building that includes anchor tenant, South Down Dental Clinic.

With a section of the existing building being retained and, in addition to the dental clinic, the rest of the project having to provide space for shop and office units, Killowen Contracts had to take a flexible approach to the project.

Andrew Knapton, Director, Killowen Contracts Ltd, explained, “While most of the former tax office was demolished, we did retain the floor slab and structural steel of the original building.

“From this, we constructed an extension to the rear, while the existing building was reinstated using rendered blockwork and aluminium cladding.”
The £2million commercial building project has been developed by Downshire Quay LLP, and includes a mixed retail and office scheme over three floors.
As the anchor tenant, South Down Dental Clinic is based on the first floor. The ground floor of the building is intended to be occupied as shop units and is made up of five retail, office and restaurant units up to 6,000sqft in size. The second floor is for office space and serviced apartments.

Located in Newry centre, Custom House is the first major new mixed-use build that has been seen in the city for nearly a decade and is the first step in revitalising the Merchant Quay area.

With this in mind, all eyes were on Killowen Contracts to deliver the first stage of what is hoped will be developments to bring the former thriving Merchants Quay back to life.

The company has always beenrespected for its attention to detail and this modern building that is in keeping with the historic elements of Newry is another prime example of this.

Founded in 1974, Killowen Contracts Ltd has continued to grow its reputation for high quality construction. The company works on a variety of projects ranging from large multi-million-pound commercial projects and maintenance contracts with healthcare trusts through to renovation projects and private residential houses.

Andrew concluded, “Our aim is always to provide a quality product to the client on time and within budget. We are based in Warrenpoint, so to be part of such an important refurbishment project such as Custom House so close to home has been a great experience.”

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