PUNCH Consulting Engineers were initially involved in the remodelling of the existing shopping centre creating new entrances and forming roof lights to improve the ambience of the centre. A major extension was constructed using a steel frame and precast slabs over a new insitu concrete basement. This set a new standard for retail developments in Limerick. A further extension was constructed in 2006 with PUNCH responding to the high cost of structural steel at that time by redesigning the super-structure as a composite steel deck with the steel frame. This alternative saved 30% in steel tonnage over the precast option still commonly adopted in Ireland. The basement was also extended to replace the surface car parking displaced by the building footprint.

The Crescent Shopping Centre in Limerick was one of the first shopping centres to be built in Ireland in the 1970’s. The most recent works involved extensive remodelling of the existing centre including new double height glazed entrances, a major new central concourse space with an airy cathedral like roof and new double height roof lit malls with glazed shop fronts and the highest specification on finishes throughout.

During each of these extensions it was imperative that the existing centre remained fully accessible to shoppers. This dictated the sequence of the works and PUNCH worked closely with the contractors in the design of temporary works and overhead shelters to safely facilitate this access.