PEACEPLUS - Access to the Hills

**NOTE this is not an above threshold exercise but is a notice to highlight this tender is live on eSourcing NI** The Contract is for the delivery of the Access to the Hills project, a landscape and recreational access infrastructure scheme located within the Belfast Hills between Cave Hill and Black Mountain in North and West Belfast. The project comprises the construction and improvement of approximately 8km of walking routes, including upgrades to existing paths and the creation of new path sections.

Associated works include the installation of field gates, pedestrian access controls, steps, wayfinding signage, drainage infrastructure and other ancillary works required to provide a safe, accessible and connected network of routes. The scheme will improve public access to the Belfast Hills, creating enhanced recreational walking opportunities, strengthening links between local communities and the hills, and encouraging greater enjoyment and understanding of the natural environment.

The works are located across a number of routes linking communities to the Belfast Hills between Cave Hill and Black Mountain, including sections connecting Fernhill House to Divis, Ligoniel to Divis and Divis to Cave Hill. The project presents a range of challenges associated with working within an environmentally sensitive upland landscape, interfacing with existing public access routes, landownership constraints, drainage and flood risk considerations, existing utilities and maintaining public safety throughout construction.