Ulster Carpets Plans New ‘Hub’ Building for Employees

In a significant move aimed at enhancing employee welfare, Portadown-based Ulster Carpets has proposed the construction of a new two-storey ‘hub’ building on its Garvaghy Road site. The initiative reflects the company’s commitment to providing a supportive and modern working environment for its staff.

Proposed Development Details

The proposed development is designed to meet diverse employee needs while keeping logistical aspects unchanged. According to the plans submitted to the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, the new hub will be located separately from existing structures on the site. Importantly, parking arrangements will remain intact, with 80 spaces designated for use.

If given the green light, the ground floor of the hub will feature an expansive kitchen and seating area, fostering a communal atmosphere for employees. Additionally, the design includes male and female restrooms, an accessible toilet, and a shower facility.

Accessing the upper level will be seamless, with stairs and lifts available. The second floor will house two boardrooms, a catering and refreshments area, and a dedicated breakout space complete with a tea point and coffee dock. Further enhancing functionality, a meeting room will also be included, alongside additional fully accessible toilet facilities.

Company Background

Ulster Carpets has a rich history dating back to its founding by George Walter Wilson in 1938. Remaining privately owned by Wilson’s family, the company is recognized as one of County Armagh’s most respected employers. In December, Ulster Carpets received its second Royal Warrant, which acknowledges suppliers of goods and services to the British Royal Family, marking a prestigious milestone for the company.

In 2022, the company was honored as one of the final recipients of a Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth II before it expired following her passing. A new Royal Warrant was subsequently issued by King Charles III after a thorough review by the Royal Household—a timely recognition that coincided with the holiday season.

Ulster Carpets recently played a role in the Coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey, designing, manufacturing, and installing over 1,000 square meters of luxurious wool-rich Axminster carpets.

Commitment to Community and Innovation

According to Ulster Carpets’ website, the company blends the positive attributes of being a family-run business with innovative and global strategies. This fusion positions them as a technologically advanced and service-oriented entity focused on quality and flexibility.

The company emphasizes its dedication to community engagement, noting its support for local initiatives such as the John Wilson Memorial Trust, various charity efforts, and corporate sponsorships including the Ulster Orchestra and Ulster Youth Rugby. “We are proud to connect our brand to organizations which embody similar values to ourselves,” the website states. “This reflects our well-established tradition of striving to help the local community.”

As the proposal for the new hub building moves through the approval process, advertisements for the project will soon be publicized. A decision from the council is anticipated in the near future, further solidifying Ulster Carpets’ commitment to its workforce and community.