McFadden Civils is delivering major civils and infrastructure works at the Larne Point of Entry to support the operational needs of DAERA. The project involves the design and construction of facilities required for border control inspections of live animals, plants, and products of animal and non-animal origin arriving from countries outside the European Union. Facilities include a Product Inspection Facility, Livestock and Equine Inspection buildings, and all associated external works.

The site presents significant challenges, including working within a busy operational port and managing groundwater and tidal water during deep drainage and storage tank installation. McFadden Civils is addressing these conditions with specialised plant, construction techniques, and phased project planning to minimise disruption and maintain safety standards.

All works are delivered on programme, with careful coordination with government and maritime operations to ensure operational continuity at Larne Harbour. The client has expressed satisfaction with McFadden Civils’ efforts in meeting key milestones, with the project team working additional hours and weekends where necessary to ensure continuity and timely delivery. The works at Larne Harbour enhance border inspection capabilities and support trade resilience at Northern Ireland’s key maritime entry point.

Brief Description

Sector: Government / Infrastructure

Location: Larne Harbour, Northern Ireland

Role: Civils Contractor

Scope of Works

  • Groundworks, including bulk excavation, cut and fill, and foundations
  • Drainage and ducting installation across the operational zones
  • Construction of Product Inspection Facility, Livestock and Equine Inspection buildings
  • Installation of utilities and service connections
  • Access and logistics improvements within the port footprint
  • Coordination with DAERA and port operations to maintain operational continuity
  • Phased delivery programme to manage site activity effectively

Surveying, Techniques and Planning

Key construction methods and machinery include the installation of foul storage tanks up to 6.5m deep using sheet piling and long reach excavators. Groundworks are carried out with attention to drainage, ducting, foundations, bulk excavation, and cut-and-fill works. These measures ensure the project is executed safely, efficiently, and in line with the technical requirements of the client.