Christchurch: Steelwork made in Dorset is used on Belize sports stadium

Steelwork made in Dorset is providing the frame for a multi-million-dollar sports stadium in the Central American country of Belize. Christchurch-based REIDsteel has performed the structural design, drawing work and fabrication for the new national arena in Belize City.

The cutting-edge complex – due for completion in December – is one of the highest profile projects in the country’s history at a cost of $32.9 million Belize dollars, equivalent to £12.7m.

Named the Belize Civic Centre Sports Complex, it will include a FIBA/FIVB basketball and volleyball pro courts, gym facilities and offices as well as being able to accommodate large entertainment concerts and venues under one roof. 

The exterior offers the community free access to a sports park that includes a 45-meter running track, a five-on-five football field, various basketball courts and an exterior performance amphitheater. 

Steel construction company REIDsteel has the capability to design, manufacture, ship and erect entire steel buildings including their cladding and or glazing requirements anywhere in the UK and world.

Project engineer Pepe Olivier said: “The new national arena is one of the biggest projects of its kind in Belize and will help transform the country’s sporting and cultural life.

“The contractor turned to us as we have a demonstrable history of exporting to Belize, Central America and the Caribbean.

“Our business model means that we can carry out the structural design, drawing and fabrication under one roof at our Christchurch site before containerising the finished structure for shipping to its destination.

“Demand for this type of service continues to rise from clients worldwide, including many outside of Europe who see the value in a seamless service.”

The structurally optimised steel frame is designed for hurricane wind speeds of 160mph.