A major milestone for Northern Ireland's digital economy has been reached as construction officially begins on the Momentum One Zero expansion in Belfast's Titanic Quarter.

Henry Brothers, the lead contractor for the project, hosted a sod-cutting ceremony attended by leaders from government, academia, and industry to mark the start of works on the site.

The project forms a central part of the £70 million Belfast Region City Deal investment, with £44.8 million specifically allocated to this expansion. Once fully operational by the end of 2027, the centre will offer cutting-edge facilities, including purpose-built laboratories, secure testing environments, and co-location spaces designed to foster collaboration between researchers and industry partners. Jody Wilkinson, Managing Director at Henry Brothers, expressed pride in the local firm's involvement: "Momentum One Zero is an exciting and highly significant project for Northern Ireland, and we are thrilled to be delivering this next phase of development on behalf of Queen's University Belfast. As a Northern Ireland-based contractor, Henry Brothers is committed to supporting projects that drive innovation, skills and long-term economic growth."

The expansion aims to solidify Belfast's reputation as a global hub for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital health. Professor Sir Ian Greer, Vice-Chancellor of Queen's University, noted that the project is a "clear example" of turning research into tangible economic impact, while Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald highlighted its potential to transform the region into a global innovation destination.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Tracy Kelly, emphasised the community benefits of the investment: "Momentum One Zero will support the creation of high-value jobs across digital and deep-tech sectors, while developing the skills our people need to access those opportunities. It represents a major investment in Belfast's future as a city of innovation, opportunity and good jobs – and it shows what can be achieved through strong partnership with the UK Government, NI Government and the Belfast Region City Deal."

The centre is expected to deliver long-term economic growth and generate more than 1,000 new jobs, strengthening the region's skills base and global competitiveness.