UK steelwork contractor delivers Belize sports complex

Dorset-based REIDsteel has designed and fabricated the soon-to-open Belize Civic Center Sports Complex, said to be one of the largest public construction projects in the Central American country’s history.

REIDsteel carried out the structural design, drawing and fabrication in Christchurch, Dorset, before containerising the finished steelwork for shipping to its destination.

The structural steel frame included hot rolled sections that were hot-dip galvanized for protection from the elements and for ease of maintenance, all designed for hurricane wind speeds of 160 miles per hour.

A total of 750t of steelwork was required for the 3,600m² complex, including a roofing system spanning 60m, together with terracing for approximately 4,500 seats.

The package also included all the suspended floors consisting of a galvanized composite metal decking system suitable for cast-in-situ concrete.

The glazing package, including curtain walling and aluminium-framed windows, was also packed for export and shipped to Belize.

The air-conditioned arena is suitable for both sports and entertainment events and includes international standard basketball and volleyball courts, practice courts, offices, media boxes and changing rooms. Outside there is parking and a deck area for boats to dock.

REIDsteel Project Engineer Pepe Oliva said: “There has been tremendous interest in Belize about the new national civic centre.

“Although we have designed, made and supplied many buildings in this part of the world, it is still incredibly rewarding to deliver a project of this magnitude on time and on budget to the client’s satisfaction.”

He added: “Like most of our buildings in Central America and the Caribbean, the Belize Civic Center has been designed to withstand hurricanes and other natural disasters.

“We hope it will serve the people of Belize, and be a source of civic pride, for many years to come.”