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Welcome to a New Year; we trust it will live up to your expectations. Looking back on 2024, there was certainly a lot to contend with, but we got there in the end! Now we need to brace ourselves for what 2025 will throw at us.
Let’s hope it’s all good!
All of us here at Plant & Civil Engineer really appreciate the support you have given us over the last 12 months and we hope we can continue that journey with you in the months ahead.
Looking back over the last year there have been plenty of highs and lows. It’s been a reasonably good year for the economy and for our industry in general, though there has been some volatility in the construction sector, but it is anticipated the next 12 months will bring some steady improvement with an increase in public investment.
In this issue, we look back in words and pictures on the impressive achievements of individuals and companies working across the industry throughout the last year. They were deservedly recognised at the annual Plant & Civil Engineer magazine’s Plant, Construction & Quarry Awards.
We also focus on the progress and growth of one of Northern Ireland’s success stories: R Heatrick Ltd, a leading force in the haulage, demolition & recycling sectors with over half a century of experience This family run business was established in 1969 by Robert Heatrick, and at the helm today are his four sons and two grandsons who continue to drive the company forward into the future
Our cover story highlights the role of Liebherr wheel loaders which, thanks to their performance and robustness, will prove indispensable if our roads are hit by snow and ice this winter, and we climb aboard JCB’s all-new 145XR crawler excavator to get the view from the cab. Plus, we have all the latest news and developments from throughout the industry.
Well, that’s it for now, but in the meantime, you can keep up to date with all the industry news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.plantandcivilengineer.com Of course, you should also be getting our weekly newsletter which is emailed out every
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Open Doors 2025: CITB encourages construction employers to register their events
Construction employers across the country have the chance to inspire the next generation of construction workers by demonstrating the excitement of a career in construction and taking young people onto one of their live sites.
Open Doors week being held between March 17th and 22th 2025 is being delivered by the Build UK in partnership with CITB and CSCS, supported by media, community and industry partners, who are encouraging construction employers to register their events to take part.
Open Doors offers a unique opportunity for the public to go behind the scenes of live construction sites, offices, factories, and training centres across the UK – both in person and virtually.
Employers that register for Open Doors and provide a ‘shop window’ for the industry put themselves in a prime position to attract and retain new workers
and demonstrate the benefits of pursuing a career in construction.
Employers that register their events should consider what interactive experiences and learning opportunities will be most attractive for young people. This could be providing practical demonstrations or having employees explain the differences in their roles and responsibilities.
The event presents a great opportunity for SMEs in the construction sector to attract new apprentices. Over twothirds of apprenticeship starts in the construction industry are employed by companies of fewer than 50 employees, demonstrating how important a strong pipeline of apprenticeships are for smaller construction employers.
Deb Madden, Executive Director, Nations Engagement, CITB said: “Open Doors provides a wonderful forum for construction employers to engage with the workforce of tomorrow, and for young people to
understand the joys and diversity of a career in construction. The industry needs to recruit 50,000 new entrants a year and Open Doors provides a unique opportunity for young people and those looking for a change of career to go behind the scenes and see just what the industry has to offer.
“It’s also a great opportunity for SMEs to get involved and showcase their sites.
A healthy construction industry requires thriving SME employers as they’re crucial to establishing a strong pipeline of apprentices and new entrants.
“I urge construction employers to take up the chance to register their sites for Open Doors 2025, it’s going to be a very worthwhile event.”
Employers can find information or register their site for Open Doors at https://opendoors.construction/
Komatsu Smart Construction integrates Artificial Intelligence in latest product
Earthmoving solution expert, Komatsu, has combined Artificial Intelligence (AI) to modernise its Smart Construction Edge solution, in partnership with technology giant Sony as part of the EarthBrainjointventure across Komatsu, NTT Communications, Sony Semiconductor and Nomura Research Institute, to champion digitalisation and advancement in drone surveying processes.
The innovative Edge solution is a unique device that works to enable both experts and beginners to perform accurate drone surveys and process drone flights into point clouds. The EarthBrain partnership works to optimise the construction processes through digital transformation to maximise productivity, improve worksite safety and environmental sustainability. With its latest Edge evolution, Komatsu Smart Construction now offers a terrain mapping tool
utilising AI to remove obstaclessuch as machinery and buildingsfrom drone surveys, reducing the need for manual amendments once the data has been captured.
Bart Vingerhoets, Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction commented: “I’m extremely proud to launch this new version of Edge into multiple markets. At Komatsu Smart Construction we’re committed to helping professionals within our sector increase productivity to ultimately save time and money.
“A major benefit of our updated Edge solution is its ability to speed up data processing from drone surveys to create a fully accurate, digital twin. When connected with the Smart Construction Dashboard solution, the 3D terrain maps available will save time spent on the jobsite and the data collected including volume, percentage of progress and location on site can be collected quickly and efficiently.”
The updated Edge solution was initially unveiled at the
Intermat exhibition in Paris in April 2024 and is now available across multiple European markets Germany, France, Austria, Poland, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Edge in Action
When the main surveyor of medium-sized Belgian earthmoving company, CROES VS, went on maternity leave, the company faced challenges to maintain its surveying capabilities making it difficult to carry out its projects with the same level of precision and efficiency.
CROES VS implemented the revised Edge technology and the workload gap was seamlessly filled without the requirement of additional training or recruitment. The solution allows various team members, including the marketing manager, to take on drone surveying tasks and capture survey-grade earthmoving progress, identifying challenges and opportunities within seconds. Bart continues: Working with CROES VS has highlighted
the importance of enhancing data processing speed and accuracy - serving as testament to the construction industry’s requirement of broader drone surveying adoption.
“Adopting the use of AI within the latest version of Edge means the device can eliminate the need for Ground Control Points (GCPs) which will enhance safety and efficiency on-site and process data into 3D point clouds without the requirement for internet connection. The overall goal for this enhanced Edge solution is to streamline the entire process to enable seamless terrain mapping.”
Komatsu Smart Construction experts utilise digital tools to assist clients in the earthmoving and quarry industries by finding the optimum way of using resources like machine, material and people for enhanced productivity, quicker project completion, cost savings, improved safety, and reduced CO² emissions.
Breens Farm Machinery Named Takeuchi Dealer of the Year
Breens Farm Machinery have won the Takeuchi Dealer of the Year award for the third time in five years. Awarded for outstanding performance in sales, service, support and marketing across the region the wellknown dealership, which has impressive depots in Naas, Ennis and Cashel, has firmly established the Takeuchi name right across Ireland.
A Takeuchi dealer since 2008, Conor Breen and his team has made a massive contribution to machine sales, growing the Takeuchi customer base extensively in
a number of sectors, including civils and utilities, alongside many plant and tool hirers.
Commented Daisuke “Yana”
Yanagisawa, Managing Director
Takeuchi Mfg. UK Ltd: “Conor Breen and his team are very
proactive and offer excellent customer service to support Takeuchi machine operators. Their recent investment in the new depot at Naas is significant in supporting sales and service to Takeuchi customers across the Dublin region.”
CIF responds to Irish Fiscal Advisory Council report
The Construction Industry Federation has responded to the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council report ‘Ireland’s Infrastructure Demands’.
Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation said: “The report highlights the need for greater progress on Ireland’s infrastructure and housing. We know that improving Ireland’s infrastructure will support investment, housing and jobs, so it is more crucial than ever that water, energy, transport, hospitals, schools and roads are built.
“To meet the needs of the population into the future, Ireland needs a plan-led approach to ensure that critical infrastructure is delivered proactively, ahead of demand and before a critical backlog can build up.
The Budget announcement of €3 billion in capital investment in infrastructure was a positive step in providing for greater water infrastructure, houses, and energy. But we stress that capital budgets need to be spent with clear timelines and commitment to delivery.
“The construction industry has the capacity to deliver on Ireland’s infrastructure and housing needs but must have certainty on a pipeline
Added Conor Breen, Managing Director, Breens Farm Machinery: “We are enormously proud to win once again the Takeuchi Dealer of the Year. We would like to say thanks to our customers for investing in us and Takeuchi. “This award recognises the effort we all make to support the Takeuchi brand. With our dedicated team we strive to offer our customers the best support and back-up possible. Once again, we thank Takeuchi for making a world leading product we are happy to promote.”
of new work in order to invest in and scale up resources. Uncertainty around investment and delivery timelines in public projects has a detrimental effect on the ability of contractors to retain talent and plan resources.
“We also recommend the continued resourcing of procurement agencies to equip them with sufficient skilled staff to deliver projects. Resourcing the procurement authorities and planning system will be crucial to enabling the delivery of infrastructure and housing developments now and in the future.
“The construction industry has always innovated and is continually working to increase its capacity in line with demand. Innovations such as use of off-site construction and modern methods of construction are building greater efficiencies and productivity gains. With certainly around project delivery and demand, these manufacturing capabilities can scale up.”
Equipment Upgrade Keeps
CRH member company
Roadstone has completed a major plant and equipment investment at its quarry, aggregates, and concrete products sites in the Republic of Ireland.
The equipment – supplied to them by Komatsu and Metso distributors in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales – included Komatsu WA475 and WA600 wheel loaders, and a WA800 wheel loader with 24-tonnes capacity bucket. Included also were Komatsu PC360 and HB365 Hybrid excavators, and a number of HD605 rigid dump trucks.
On the delivery side, Komatsu units went to sites across the Roadstone network at Belgard (near Dublin), Ballygarvan (Cork), Ennis (Clare), Mullaghcrone (Meath) and Kilmacow (Kilkenny). Metso mobile crushing equipment included in the deal comprised Lokotrack LT120 jaw and LT200HP and LT300HP cone units for use at Roadstone’s Brownswood quarry in Wexford, and Rock Big quarry at Arklow, Co. Wicklow. At these locations, all three crushers will work on what McHale Plant Sales says is ‘the hardest rock in Ireland: three
very tough applications that will separate the men from the boys.’ Commenting, McHale Plant Sales director, Denis McGrath said: “For an organisation of its size, Roadstone has always been diligent when it comes to investing in plant and equipment.
“Whether powered by growth and product demand from customers, on one side, or by a need to upgrade and replace ageing equipment impacted by wear and tear on the other
side, CRH and Roadstone have always been at the forefront in knowing how important it is to be ahead of the curve by having fully functioning equipment to deliver what is needed on the raw materials side.”
THE RAPID TRANSBATCH COMPACT MOBILE BATCHING PLANT: A NEW APPROACH TO ON-SITE CONCRETE PRODUCTION
In the world of construction, efficiency and adaptability are key—especially when it comes to on-site concrete production. The Rapid Transbatch Compact Mobile Batching Plant offers a solution for projects that require flexibility without sacrificing quality. Designed for rapid deployment, this mobile plant allows for quick setup and high-performance output, making it a useful tool for a variety of construction scenarios.
One of the most notable features of the Transbatch plant is its portability. Unlike traditional stationary batching plants, it is compact and designed to be easily transported between job sites. This mobility makes it particularly suitable for projects in remote locations or those with tight
deadlines. It’s easy assembly and minimal foundation requirements mean it can be up and running within hours, a significant advantage when time is of the essence.
The plant is equipped with advanced batching technology that ensures accurate, consistent
concrete mixes, essential for maintaining quality on-site. It can handle a variety of concrete types, from standard mixes to more specialised formulations, offering a level of versatility that many traditional plants lack.
Durability is another key benefit of the Transbatch. Built to endure tough working conditions, it requires minimal maintenance and is designed to withstand the wear and tear of constant use. Furthermore, its environmental features, such as dust control systems, help reduce its impact on the surrounding environment.
For construction teams looking for a flexible, reliable solution for on-site concrete production, the Rapid Transbatch Compact Mobile Batching Plant offers a practical and efficient alternative to traditional methods.
Contractors Complete £2m Wastewater Pumping Station Project
Coalisland based Geda Construction have completed a £2 million project on behalf of NI Water to replace Ballymagorry Wastewater Pumping Station in County Tyrone.
This major investment will enhance the local sewerage infrastructure and improve wastewater services for customers in Ballymagorry and the surrounding area.
The12-month construction project saw the complete replacement of the existing pumping station within a confined site, adjacent to Victoria Road, Ballymagorry. The existing pumping station was housed in a small building with poor access to operate and maintain the pumps. Additional screening and storage were also required to improve the quality of any pumped storm discharge to the Glenmornan River.
The replacement Pumping Station will now provide additional stormwater storage via a new 9m diameter and 5.6m deep concrete shaft, which includes a screen between the foul and stormwater storage, helping to enhance the environment and protect the water quality in the river.
Paul Hamilton, NI Water’s Project Manager said: “We are delighted to announce the completion of the Ballymagorry Wastewater Pumping Station, which will improve the sewerage infrastructure in the area, as well as enhancing the local environment by improving the water quality in the Glenmornan River.
“This investment will futureproof wastewater services and protect the local environment for many years to come, as well as improving access to the site, to help NI Water operate and maintain the site well into the future.”
The main contractor for this project was Coalisland based Geda Construction, with Project Management support from RPS.
Experts reveal what you need to consider before ground excavation during Winter
Winter conditions pose unique challenges to excavation work, significantly increasing the risk of cable strikes. Frozen ground, poor visibility, and adverse weather not only make operations more difficult but also amplify the potential for accidents.
These risks necessitate meticulous planning, technical adjustments, and compliance with safety protocols to protect workers and prevent costly disruptions.
To help avoid potential accidents while excavating during the colder months, experts at Integrated Fencing have detailed what extra considerations need to be taken into account when carrying out work…
Solid Ground
One of the key issues with winter excavation is the effect of frozen soil. When the ground freezes, it becomes compacted and brittle, requiring greater force during digging operations, which increases the likelihood of accidental damage to buried cables.
To address this, contractors should use ground-thawing equipment, such as hydronic heaters, to soften the soil before excavation begins. When working near marked cables, manual excavation with insulated tools is recommended to minimise the force applied and reduce the risk of strikes.
Snow and Ice
Snow and ice further complicate operations by obscuring utility markings, which are critical for identifying safe excavation zones. Clearing snow thoroughly is essential, but it is equally important to reapply utility markers with high-visibility, weather-resistant paint to ensure accuracy. These precautions should be supplemented by the use of advanced detection technologies. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electromagnetic cable locators, when properly calibrated for cold conditions, provide reliable means of locating underground utilities, even in challenging weather.
Appropriate
PPE
Worker safety is another vital consideration during
winter. Cold weather reduces dexterity and focus, increasing the risk of errors. Workers should be equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including thermal, high-visibility clothing and insulated gloves that maintain grip and flexibility. Anti-slip boots and grit should be used to prevent slips and falls, particularly in icy areas around excavation sites. Wearable temperature monitors are also a valuable tool for ensuring workers remain within safe exposure limits during extended shifts in freezing conditions.
Freezing Temperatures
Low temperatures can also compromise the mechanical performance of excavation equipment. Hydraulic systems and batteries often operate less efficiently in the cold, making regular maintenance and the use of winter-specific lubricants essential. Equipment such as detection devices should be checked frequently and recalibrated to account for environmental effects that may reduce accuracy.
Commenting on the insights Hywel Davies, Construction Director and Co-Owner of Integrated Fencing, said: “In addition to these practical measures, adhering to established safety standards is crucial. The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) guidance, particularly HSG47: Avoiding Danger from Underground Services, outlines the best practices for identifying and managing risks associated with buried utilities.
“Standards like PAS 128 provide frameworks for underground utility surveys, helping to ensure comprehensive risk assessments. Before we start work on any project, we use our own Integrated Vacuum Excavation tool, which identifies any underground cables prior to digging.
“By taking these steps, excavation teams can significantly reduce the risk of cable strikes during winter. A well-rounded approach that combines technical preparation, worker safety, and regulatory compliance not only ensures the success of excavation projects but also positions contractors as leaders in operational safety.”
Project team: (L-R) Philip Berry, Ivor Wilson, Damien McDevitt (all NI Water), Katherine Sadowska RPS, Paul Hamilton, Mark McDonald (both NI Water) and James Brady from Geda Construction mark the completion of the Pumping Station.
GREAT TURN OUT AT McMULLAN AGRI OPEN DAYS
Following on from the huge success of McMullan Agri’s open days last year, the leading North Coast and Glens agricultural, plant and equipment supplier recently hosted its second Open Day which was well supported at its headquarters on Carrowcrin Road in Armoy, near Ballymoney. The event provided a great opportunity for customers to meet and socialise and to see the extensive range carried by McMullan Agri, who are distributors for well-known and highly regarded manufacturers. McMullan Agri’s brands include specialist equipment for agriculture, soil health, grounds maintenance, and products with multiple applications across agriculture, construction, site works and transportation.
PUTTING JCB’S 145XR TO THE TEST
BY DAN GILKES
JCB’s X-Series of crawler excavators has been a major success for the company, eclipsing the performance and productivity of the previous generation JS models and gaining new customers across the country. Initially launched in popular 220X form, the 22-tonner was soon joined by the 131X, 140X and 150X, competing in the all-important 13-15 tonne sector.
JCB’s first reduced tailswing X-Series model was the 245XR and this machine has
now been joined by a smaller stablemate, in the all-new 145XR. Offering a 27% shorter tailswing than the popular 140X conventional model, the 145XR actually boasts the same dig end, bucket ram and undercarriage as the larger 150X, providing stability and lifting capability.
The machine is offered with a choice of a monoboom, or a two-piece triple articulating boom (TAB). The TAB boom provides a 15.5% reduction in the total working envelope, matching a
reduced front end swing radius with the smaller counterweight back end. Despite that smaller turning radius, the boom manages a maximum digging depth of 6,167mm, while the monoboom and 3m dipper arm offer 6,027mm. It’s a similar story in terms of forward reach, with the TAB boom delivering a maximum of 9,230mm against the monoboom’s 8,801mm. Maximum bucket tearout force is a healthy 104.5NkN with either boom configuration.
The 145XR can be specified with an optional dozer blade, for those looking for ultimate stability and versatility. Around 30% of UK customers will go for the dozer, with a higher percentage in Scandinavian and German markets. Unlike some competitive short radius models, the 145XR retains the full CommandPlus cab, giving it the same operator space and comfort as other X-Series models. There are a choice of seating options, right up to a fully heated and cooled air suspension model. The most noticeable feature in the cab though, is the new JCB UX user interface, with its 10” touchscreen monitor.
Launched with the much larger 370X earlier this year, the JCB UK allows up to 25 different user profiles, that operators can preset to suit the way they drive. This includes setting joystick configurations and allotting tasks to each of the buttons and rollers in the servo lever heads. A panel of
hot keys makes it easy to navigate and to alter the layout of controls. There is improved mobile phone connectivity and the machine comes with twin safety cameras as standard. A full 360° camera system is offered as an option. Operators also benefit from standard LED work lights, with option packs taking the count to as many as 14 lights around the machine. As with all X-Series models, the 145XR can be prepared in the factory for a Leica machine control system.
QUICK OFF THE MARK
In operation, the compact machine is remarkably quick off the mark. It is possible to tone down the controls through the JCB UX system, but the demonstration machine was certainly keen to move. That
said, the hydraulic system is incredibly smooth, with no jerkiness, even at higher engine rpm. It is also possible to fine grade with ease, working multiple boom and bucket functions together to smoothly scrape the bucket across the ground. In typical UK monoboom and long dipper configuration, with a decent size bucket in wet material, it is possible to upset the stability of the machine when working cross track. Work within the machine’s generous capabilities however and for such a compact machine it is easy to see how productive it could be in the hands of a more experienced operator.
view from the cab
The power behind that productivity will be familiar to JCB customers, as the firm’s Stage V Dieselmax 448 engine is located within that rounded counterweight. This 81kW (108hp) engine runs at a slower 1,700rpm, boosting fuel economy by 10% compared to the previous JZ140. With Auto-Stop and Auto-Idle, in combination with multi-mode hydraulic control, the machine delivers more than enough power, with a new level of economy. Despite the compact dimensions, it is still possible to get to the engine and its major service points, with wide opening access doors to each side and an engine cover on top of the machine that has a sunken standing platform to make life easier for technicians. All filters can be reached from ground level and the air conditioning condenser can be pulled away from the radiator cores for easier cleaning.
REDUCING DOWNTIME
The excavator sits on heavy-duty track components and there are graphite bushes on key pivot points. This leads to 250hour greasing intervals, reducing regular downtime. Hydraulic filter changes have been extended to 2,000 hours, resulting in 24% fewer filter changes over a 10,000-hour period, further cutting operating cost for the customer. The X-Series machine also comes with a five-year subscription to JCB’s LiveLink telematic remote monitoring offer.
The 145XR’s reduced tailswing makes it an ideal machine for a range of applications, including working within a road carriageway.
The machine will be equally at home on a tight housebuilding site, where its lifting capabilities will be of use along with its digging ability.
JCB has been promoting the machine as ‘Minimum Swing, Maximum Space’. Certainly, the rear-end of the machine could hardly be more compact and, in combination with the 150X tracks, there is very little overhang when slewing. The Maximum Space refers to the operator’s cab, which remains unchanged from the
firm’s larger, conventional tailswing models, which will be welcome news for drivers.
OUR VERDICT
In conclusion, the 145XR has followed the successful path laid by its larger 245XR stablemate, though it will probably find even more buyers than the 25-tonne machine. With all of the durability, productivity and reliability features that have already been seen across the X-Series lineup, the 145XR deserves to do well. www.dennisons.co.uk/jcb
Kilwaughter Strikes 100% Renewable Energy Deal with Power NI
Quarry and minerals processor Kilwaughter Minerals has marked a significant milestone in its sustainability journey with the announcement of a major renewable energy deal with Power NI, Northern Ireland’s largest electricity supplier.
The new two-year agreement will ensure all electricity supplied to Kilwaughter’s Larne headquarters is generated from 100% renewable sources.
This switch to renewable energy forms a key part of Kilwaughter’s broader environmental strategy, aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future.
David Smith, Finance Director at Kilwaughter Minerals, said: “This partnership with Power NI represents a major step forward in Kilwaughter’s sustainability journey. We remain committed to improving environmental standards within our industry, and this switch to 100% renewable energy will not only significantly reduce our carbon footprint,
but also contribute to longterm operational resilience.
“Sustainability forms an integral part of our business strategy, and this deal will help us build on the progress we have made so far, while demonstrating our proactive approach to embracing cleaner, greener energy solutions.”
This strategic move is set to deliver substantial environmental benefits, including a carbon reduction of 2,000 tonnes of CO2e per year. It follows Kilwaughter’s sustainable credentials being further enhanced by Business in the Community awarding the company Gold status in its environmental benchmarking survey.
Energising over half a million Northern Ireland homes, farms and businesses for over 90 years, Power NI is driving positive change for people living in Northern Ireland and for the future of our planet.
Daniel Boyle, Key Account Manager at Power NI, commented: “This partnership will make a tangible difference, not just for Kilwaughter, but for the environment as a whole. We look forward to working with Kilwaughter as the company continues to lead by example.”
This latest announcement follows the recent launch of Kilwaughter Minerals’ K Rend Eco Range, a suite of reduced cement render and mortar products.
Developed by K Rend’s research and development team, the K Rend Eco Range underscores Kilwaughter Minerals’ dedication to improving environmental standards in the construction industry, promoting sustainable practices and meeting the demands of eco-conscious customers.
Volvo Trucks Makes Inroads at Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage
Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage has added a pair of new Volvo FH16 650 6x4 tractor units to its fleet, replacing two older trucks from a rival manufacturer.
The new additions are plated to operate at a gross combination weight of up to 120 tonnes, the ideal specification for the company’s cross-channel delivery work transporting plant equipment to and from construction sites.
Supplied by Damian Kerin, New Sales Executive at Dennison Commercials, the two FH16s are powered by Volvo’s D16K engine, producing 650 hp and a maximum torque figure of 3,150 Nm.
Scott Donnell, Transport Manager at Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage, says: “Traditionally we have been a one manufacturer fleet, but we opted to go for something different this time and, so far, we are very pleased with that decision.
“The main reason was the competitive pricing and the fact that Volvo could offer us the exact specification we were looking for in regards to weight. Most of our loads are crushers and screeners, which are usually between 50 to 60 tonnes. So, we are over 90 tonnes gross but we would
never be up at 150 tonnes– the two options we had from our usual manufacturer.
“We have 18 trucks in total, and only had the one Volvo before, but that has always performed very well and never let us down.”
The new FH16s are liveried in the firm’s red and white colours anddriven via Volvo’s popular automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox, which constantly evaluates information regarding speed, weight, road grade and torque demand to apply precision to every shift.
To maximise startability, Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage has also opted to equip its new arrivals with two extra gears –
one Crawler and one ultra-low Crawler – in a move that could also reduce clutch wear by up to 75 per cent.
Inside the spacious Globetrotter XL cabs, the company’s drivers are treated to many benefits that form part of Volvo’s Drive+ package, including fully electronic air conditioning with a carbon filter and sun, mist and air quality sensors, dual armrests on the driver seat and an adjustable steering wheel with neck tilt.
A one person Living package adds extra cab storage, two bottle holders, a cab parking heater as well as a 33-litre fridge/freezer. The trucks’ specification also includes Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Support systems to improve safety.
“The level of service from Damian and the team at Dennison Commercials has been first -class, you couldn’t ask for more,” adds Donnell. “The drivers are very happy with their new tools as well.”
Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage will pair the FH16s with multi-axle step frame low loader trailers and expect each to clock in the region of 95,000 km per year, operating out of the firm’s Omagh headquarters.
Pictured announcing the deal are, from left, David Smith, Finance Director at Kilwaughter Minerals, Donna McFadden, Operations Director at Kilwaughter Minerals, and Daniel Boyle, Key Account Manager at Power NI.
SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES: PROVIDING AN UNPARALLELED SERVICE TO WORKSHOPS ACROSS IRELAND FOR OVER 50 YEARS
As we start the New Year, there’s a renewed emphasis at SWS on the all-important supply of consumables for the workshop, without any loss of our focus on workshop fit out and the supply of equipment.
SWS have been working with commercial vehicle workshops across the whole of Ireland for over 50 years.
Alongside all the changes that technology has introduced, the need for a supplier that understands the challenges faced everyday has never been greater.
That’s exactly where SWS fit in – combining an in-depth understanding of what it takes to run the workshop with product knowledge that has been accumulated as a result of the experience. And it doesn’t just stay as knowledge. Backing up the advice is a stockholding at their Irish distribution centre that has the customer as a priority.
If you’re starting the year conscious that your workshop has got to be overhauled, but not sure where to go for honest, open advice give
SWS a call. With our years of experience we can give you the best advice that will result in a cost-effective solution that best suits your business and your individual needs.
Remember, it doesn’t stop at supply – the comprehensive packages offered are all-inclusive of training, maintenance and certification. This is all backed up by some of the best names in the
industry – Stertil Koni, VL Test Systems, Samoa, Majorlift; to name but a few.
However, it’s quite likely that your workshop is all up to date, everything functioning as it should and apart from some regular maintenance (don’t forget SWS) all the boxes are ticked. That is except for one (important) thing – all those items that are needed every day, every week and every month.
If that’s the case – we’ve got your back. SWS understand the pain that running out of the most basic items – like cable ties, can cause. It’s why the stock holding is so large. If you need it, SWS want to be able to supply it.
To make accessing these basic products easier SWS are rolling out an all-new publication – The Workshop Essential. And this does exactly what the title says – it’s full of all those every-day, essential lines. If a copy hasn’t crossed your desk yet – give SWS a shout. They’ll be glad to get one to you and to discuss the options available to ensure you’ve always got the best quality products that you need, when you need them.
LIEBHERR WHEEL LOADERS ACT AS VERSATILE HELPERS IN SNOW AND ICE
Winter brings snow and ice that can make roads and pavements impassable. Reliable and powerful machines are essential to keep the infrastructure going. Thanks to their performance and robustness, Liebherr wheel loaders are also indispensable helpers for winter road maintenance. The product range includes compact loaders and stereoloaders, telescopic wheel loaders and mid-sized wheel loaders, offering the ideal machine for every operation. Whether for snow clearance,
gritting or de-icing, even in cramped spaces or with challenging loading heights, Liebherr wheel loaders are perfectly equipped for every task.
To meet their statutory obligation to clear snow and ice from roads, local authorities and contractors need powerful vehicles for winter maintenance.
Liebherr wheel loaders meet these high standards with their proven and powerful hydrostatic travel drive. They accelerate steplessly, with no interruption in tractive force or noticeable gear shifting. Their powerful hydraulic systems also ensure precise
control of the attachments, significantly increasing efficiency and productivity in winter road maintenance.
Using the hydraulic quick coupler, snow ploughs, snow blowers and spreaders can be easily fitted on the wheel loaders and used for a wide range of tasks. This flexibility of the machines is ideal for both municipal and industrial applications, whether on narrow city streets or large industrial sites. Liebherr wheel loaders also guarantee comfort and a high level of safety, for example with ergonomically designed cabs, optional heated seats, innovative
assistance systems such as active personnel detection at the rear and excellent work lighting. This lighting helps the operators in their daily work and ensures additional safety.
COMPACT LOADERS
Liebherr compact loaders –L 504 to L 508 Compact – are particularly suitable for winter road maintenance in cramped urban areas. Compact and highly manoeuvrable, they can be comfortably used on narrow roads and pavements. Standing less than 2.5 metres tall (L 504 and L 506), they allow fast
and uncomplicated transport without low entrances and passages posing an obstacle.
The compact design gives them a very low centre of gravity which allows them to handle heavy payloads with maximum stability and tipping safety –ideal for transporting large amounts of snow, for example. Powerful engines and a hydraulic quick coupler for safely changing attachments enable them to efficiently clear snow and spread grit. The compact loaders are also compatible with various attachments, such as the light material bucket for moving snow, making them even more versatile for winter road maintenance. Automatic self-locking differentials ensure excellent traction – even on difficult terrain such as slippery roads.
STEREOLOADERS
Stereo steering, a proven combination of articulated and rear axle steering, makes the Liebherr stereoloaders – L 507 to L 518 Stereo – reliable partners in winter. Local authorities and contractors appreciate the manoeuvrability of the wheel loaders when deep snow disrupts road and pedestrian traffic. Thanks to stereo steering, operators can easily clear snow and ice from inner courtyards, tight parking spaces or narrow streets in residential areas. The sturdy axles have automatic self-locking differentials that provide traction in slippery conditions. In the Speeder version, which can travel at up to 38 km/h, the operator can manually engage a differential lock with a 100 percent locking effect on the front axle.
LIEBHERR IMPROVED POWER WITH GREATHER PRODUCTIVITY
Liebherr stereoloaders are most often used by local authorities and contractors in combination with a light material bucket and snow chains. With this equipment, the agile machines are particularly versatile. A light material bucket is suitable for simple clearing work and for loading snow onto a truck to be taken away. Using a hydraulically adjustable snow plough, the stereoloaders can clear compacted snow from roads and pavements while using a sweeper to remove smaller amounts of loose powder snow. For heavy snow, they can be fitted with a snow blower, for which Liebherr offers high-flow hydraulics for the L 507 and L 509 models on request. This option increases the oil flow rate and thus the hydraulic power.
TELESCOPIC WHEEL LOADERS
The L 509 Tele telescopic wheel loader is a versatile special machine for Liebherr customers. It combines the lifting height and reach of a regular telescopic handler with the productive material handling capacity of a classic wheel loader. The specially designed telescopic lift arms allow manipulation heights of up to 4.8 metres and maximal forward reach. This makes the L 509 Tele ideal for piling snow and loading it onto trucks. In addition, its stereo steering makes it highly agile, with fast and efficient manoeuvring even in confined spaces. With a top speed of 38 km/h, the telescopic wheel loader can work quickly and effectively.
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Local authorities and contractors mostly use the L 509 Tele in combination with a light material bucket, a snow plough or a snow blower for large amounts of snow. The highflow hydraulics allow especially powerful and high-quality optional attachments to be fitted.
MID-SIZED WHEEL LOADERS
Liebherr’s mid-sized wheel loaders – the L 526 to L 546 –boast even more power and strength. The cleverly designed lift arms with z-bar kinematics have
impressively fast tilt movements and cycle times and provide maximum breakout, holding and return forces, ideal for shifting snow and ice. The mid-sized wheel loaders can also quickly and efficiently remove snow from large areas. Their high traction also enables them to quickly and powerfully pile and push large amounts of snow. Stepless traction control combined with automatic self-locking differentials prevent the wheels from spinning, even on the worst terrain.
The mid-sized wheel loaders are compatible with many different
attachments for a wide range of winter applications. Numerous assistance systems – such as active personnel detection with brake assist or adaptive work lighting for operations in twilight or at night – make it possible to work safely, productively and comfortably in winter conditions.
Liebherr offers a wide range of wheel loaders with the power and robustness to handle the most challenging winter jobs. Whether compact loaders for tight spaces, stereoloaders for
precise manoeuvring, telescopic wheel loaders for long reach or mid-sized wheel loaders for operations requiring plenty of power, each machine offers unique advantages and versatility for clearing ice and snow. With various equipment options, the wheel loaders can be used in small spaces, on large sites, on snowdrifts and on ice.
New Volvo ECR145 and EC210 redefine excavator excellence
Making it even easier for customers to deliver a cutting-edge performance with improved efficiency, Volvo Construction Equipment is introducing two more models to its leading line-up of new generation excavators.
The modern 14-tonne ECR145 crawler excavator is pushing boundaries with a bigger cab, increased fuel efficiency and improved lifting capacity, while the 20-tonne EC210 crawler excavator is punching above its weight with its ability to be a multi-purpose partner while doing even more for less. They are the latest additions to join the company’s updated range of excavators – which not only boost a modern and ergonomic design concept, but have also been built to elevate productivity, fuel efficiency and total cost of ownership. With these new models being introduced to Europe, Volvo CE is continuing to bring the customer into the future with its most technologically advanced features.
Innovation at their core
The machines’ innovative electro-hydraulic system helps
to dramatically reduce fuel consumption and lower operating costs, by regulating engine speed and hydraulic flow rate based on the task at hand. Thanks to its intelligent use of electronic sensors to monitor operator movements, the result is smooth and precise control for the most accurate digging and loading. Other fuel efficiency features include engine pump optimization to maintain excellent machine performance and an auto power boost function to ensure an automatic setting of the system pressure when more power is needed. And an improved human machine interface (HMI) with its modern features, keyless engine start and always-on camera
allows operators to easily carry out a productive day’s work.
New level of performance
The short swing radius of the new ECR145 allows operators to achieve optimum results across a variety of tasks and sites. Thanks to 20% more cab space, quieter surrounds and personalized settings, they can also work safely and smoothly with best-in-class visibility and operator comfort. An updated machine design and an optional heavier counterweight of up to 3,500 kg also ensure 5% more stability and 11% increased lifting capacity.
Lighter effort, greater results
Meanwhile the new EC210 is destined to be the perfect partner
for customers across agricultural and supporting work, as well as building, roadwork or utilities. It enjoys a lower total cost of ownership while ensuring an up to 10% improved fuel efficiency and longer service intervals. Its advanced technology reduces operator fatigue and increases efficiency, enabling precise digging with minimal input. The result is faster and smoother work with more accuracy and shorter cycle times.
Safety assured
Both models benefit from the Smart View with an optional Obstacle Detection feature with its 360° visibility of the machine’s surroundings. Increased on-site safety is secured through its camera and new radar detection system. Furthermore, the opportunity to pre-set limits on the boom’s depth, height and swing ensures operators carry out their tasks to the highest possible standards of safety, while the advanced electric control joystick and full electric travel pedals provide lightning-fast response times and a smoother operation.
JCB Marks Major Manufacturing Milestone
JCB has marked a major manufacturing milestone with the production of its one millionth engine.
Production started in 2004 at JCB Power Systems in Foston, Derbyshire, and expanded to JCB India in 2010 with the opening of a dedicated plant in Ballabgarh, Delhi. From three engines a day 20 years ago, JCB now produces around 500 a day, becoming a world leader in the design, development and manufacture of diesel engines and is now pioneering development of hydrogen combustion engines.
“To have made one million engines in 20 years is quite some achievement,” says Anthony Bamford, JCB Chairman. “This really is a significant moment for our teams around the world, a real achievement. The JCB engine is very well respected around the world for its reliability and very well appreciated by our customers. JCB machines work in dirt and hot and cold climates, and from the moment they go to a customer, they are working hard and
doing a full day’s shift. The engine really is the beating heart of that reputation for reliability.
“It was a major decision at the time to make our own engines and I was directly involved in that; it has paid off and I’m very pleased we made the decision. As we hit the milestone of producing one million engines, the time is right to acknowledge the part my played father in the design, not only of this engine, but other engines which he designed with other people in the past.
My father died in 2001 so our engines were running as prototypes by that time, and he had a lot to do with it. I’m thankful he was involved in this engine so many years ago.”
JCB Power Systems’ engines have been instrumental in helping set world records –firstly when the JCB Dieselmax streamliner, powered by two JCB engines, became the fastest diesel-powered car in the world in 2006 when it reached a speed of 350.092mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats, USA – a record that still stands. In 2019, JCB’s Fastrac tractor stormed into the record books as the world’s fastest tractor with a speed of 135.191 mph – thanks to JCB’s 7.2 litre, 6-cylinder Dieselmax engine. A team of more than 150 engineers is currently engaged in developing hi-tech hydrogen combustion engines for use in JCB machinery as part of a £100 million investment. More than 120 engines have come off the production line so far and many machines powered by these super-efficient engines are currently undergoing evaluation.
FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI
LOOKING BACK ON AN EVENTFUL YEAR
I hope that all of you had a very happy, healthy and safe holiday period and I hope that this coming year of 2025 brings you health, happiness and success. It’s also an appropriate time to look back and remember our absent friends and family. Unlike this time last year, we now have an Executive and Assembly up and running which is to be warmly welcomed. The Association has responded to the NI Executive’s draft Programme for Government which was launched at Parliament Buildings back in October with great fanfare and optimism by the four main Executive Parties. We do know however that all was not tea and buns around the Executive table with some parties not happy with what was included in the 9 priorities and what was not. Simply put though the 9 priorities are all “motherhood and apple pie” and nowhere in those 9 priorities does it contain the agreement to make the difficult decisions that will help “supercharge” our economy and give this place the type of vibrant, caring and progressive that the people and businesses deserve. All of us in the business community and particularly within our own construction materials sector know that we punch way beyond our weight in the wider UK and global economy. Yes, and we have achieved that, not because of our politicians, but in spite of them!!
BEST PERFORMING
Our local economy and mineral products sector had a reasonably strong 2024 and this has been reflected in the local labour market which continued to perform strongly, particularly in the first half of the year, being one of best performing UK Regions.
Activity levels across the construction sector have been volatile in the year to date, but more recently growth is returning. In particular, workforce jobs in the 12 months to June 2024 increased by 16.3% and October
saw an increase in new business (as per the PMI).The increase in public investment announced in the recent Autumn Budget was also positive and should provide a much needed boost in the medium term. However, recent surveys indicate that clouds on the horizon are starting to appear! Latest Regional Growth Tracker data from Ulster Bank pointed to a slowdown in growth in the Northern Ireland private sector in November. the coming months will be key in determining whether we are seeing a temporary soft-patch or the start of a more worrying downturn.
INDUSTRIAL DERATING POLICY
Recently Finance Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, has confirmed that the immediate threat to the continuation of Industrial Derating Policy has been lifted.
In a statement to the NI Assembly she announced a conclusion to the rates element of the revenue raising consultation she inherited from the previous, Direct Rule, Secretary of State which could have resulted in significant changes to what and how much rates are collected from businesses and domestic properties.
Alongside the confirmation, the Minister announced that over the next 10 years all rates reliefs will be reviewed to ensure there is alignment with the objectives of the Executive starting with Small Business Rates Relief (which mineral products manufacturers do not receive as they secure industrial derating instead).
This means that, at the earliest, it will be 2027 before any significant change will take place around the relief which manufacturers secure.
MPANI members and NI Manufacturers everywhere engaged with the process and Manufacturing NI and MPANI together provided the Minister, Department and Land Property Service with a substantial body of evidence which should why this relief was important in delivering the Executive and Economy Minister’s 4 priority areas of good
jobs, which are regionally dispersed in a more productive and decarbonised economy.
The Minister also announced the commissioning of research into the costs of doing business which we will fully engage with.
We thank the Minister for her attention, including directly engaging with Industry and visiting manufacturing businesses, and concluding that the rating system is an important part of securing the economy which the Executive wants. The Minister’s approach is both sound and strategic and offer our support.
HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE
As reported in the last column for PCE, I highlighted the intensive lobbying that MPANI were engaged in to support our Highway Maintenance and Construction members. The October monitoring round has now come and gone with a total of £14 million being allocated toward roads maintenance. MPANI continue to raise concerns and offer solutions to the shortfall in Departmental resources which is constraining work loads and endangering jobs.
We raised these concerns when we met with the Assembly Infrastructure Committee and the DfI Permanent Secretary, Denis McMahon back in November. Also, at our liaison meeting on the 3rd December we discussedwith the Department the possibilities for the January 2025 monitoring and the plans for works in the new 2025/26 financial year which will hopefully see the start of multi-year budget cycles.
The Association has also been engaged in a number of discussions about reform of the planning process. I was recently part of the CBI Infrastructure Group who met with Rosemary Daly, Director of Regional Planning Legislation and Governance, at which we discussed the importance of planning reform. Rosemary outlined a number of constraints and challenges including moving towards a properly resourced
Gordon Best, MPANI
planning system as well as a high level of vacancies across the planning system.
Key actions for the Department include:
- Engaging each planning authority to understand reasons for delays and identify solutions, collaborating with SOLACE and looking at best practice in Scotland, England, Wales and the RoI on planning improvement.
- Financial sustainability of the system is also being examined. The Department have made a transformational bid – this could potentially cover the cost of independent inspectors stepping into supplement the work of the Planning Appeals Commission. The Department officials emphasised the need for consistent frameworks which they will need planning authority buy into. They are exploring better training for planning officers, and the potential role of AI in the consultation process. The importance of accountability and independent oversight was also highlighted. They have been working on a Validation Checklist to help with improving the quality of planning applications entering the planning system. They are planning to review the role of various stakeholder groups relating to planning issues as well.
INTERIM REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION
Diana Fitzsimons, CBI rep on IRPC, provided an update to the Infrastructure Working Group, mentioning that the IRPC (Interim Regional Planning Commission) has been meeting since Feb 2023, initially quarterly but now more frequently.
During that time there has been a complete turnover in Departmental staff on the Commission and a new Minister. She noted that the IRPC minutes are available on the DfI (Department for Infrastructure) website. At an IRPC review workshop in May 2024, members of the Commission representing environmental, community and business interests, said they were keen to have a greater role than just signing off departmental planning improvement plans already in place. Although not a DfI responsibility, the Planning Appeals Commission was coming under increased criticism as holding up the planning system and there was a NIAO review of the PAC coming up. There was some support amongst planning professionals for the PAC to move from the Dept of Justice to the Dept for Infrastructure.
Diana frequently emphasised to the Commission the list of planning processes that the CBI wanted improved. These were set out in the April 2023 minutes at
Annex 1. She had called for a Sixth Sigma approach to major planning applications, similar to what had been successfully done for minor applications in Belfast City Council. She had asked for local authority case studies of major planning applications to add to those gathered by her for the CBI. Diana stressed the importance of addressing the “culture” of the planning system to become more collaborative with applicants and their consultants and pride where timelines and quality outcomes were achieved by individual planners. She had suggested a shared services approach on technical matters between Councils.
The IRPC now has a programme of work which is looking at best-practice elsewhere and looking at Local Authorities’ internal reviews of development management and plan making. The Commission has validated uplifts in fees and there is action behind the scenes on elements of the Department’s Planning Improvement Programme. The longterm financial sustainability of the planning system is a priority, but this is not necessarily about putting people behind desks.
Continuous training and retaining experienced staff are key. Digital transformation etc is needed. Interesting to note the new legislation being introduced in RoI on Statutory Timelines with fines for breaches and also limiting access to Judicial Review. RoI has the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) which deals with a variety of matters and helps reduce timescale for approving development plans. The appeals authority (An Bord Pleanala) has been through a difficult period with governance issues and a backlog of appeals. It has recently increased staffing and improved governance measures and will be prioritising housing and renewables appeals.
QUARRY EXTENSIONS
I recently met with Liam McEvoy and Daniel Healey of DfI Roads Planning Development team to discuss a number of issues but in particular the Departments officials approach to quarry extensions and non-intensification of use.
Liam said that his officials base their position and comments purely on the information received from the applicant and if it is clearly shown there is no intensification then they will have no objections and will respond accordingly. They also use previous information submitted specific to sites and will assess if the access onto the highway is suitable. This could happen where a site has been working
on an old planning permission and the vehicle access has never been upgraded to modern standards.Laim and Daniel were very open and said that if members experience is different to please come back to them and they will investigate to ensure consistency in the DfI approach.
Three independent experts have been appointed by DAERA Minister Andrew Muir to conduct a review of environmental governance in Northern Ireland, including considering options for an independent environment protection agency.The panel will be chaired by Dr Viviane Gravey, a senior lecturer in European Politics at Queen's University. Dr Gravey will be assisted by Diane Ruddock, who has recently retired from the National Trust and John McCallister, who is a current member of the Ulster Farmers' Union.
For more information click https:// www.daera-ni.gov.uk/news/ministermuir-announces-independent-reviewstrengthen-environmental-governance MPANI has in the past supported the formation of an expert led Independent Environmental Protection Agency. To view our and other responses to a previous consultation on the formation of an independent EPA in 2007 click here- https://niopa.qub.ac.uk/bitstream/ NIOPA/5138/1/Env%20Governance%20 Synopsis%20of%20Responses.pdf
REPORTABLE INCIDENTS
At our recent MPANI health and safety committee meeting Brian Price of HSENI reported that in 2024 there have been 33 reportable incidents to date in the Extractive Industry – 17 major injuries, 14 over-3-day injuries and 2 dangerous occurrences.
The Workplace Health – Exposure to Dust initiative has commenced with a number of visits completed. It is planned to complete 25 visits. These should be completed by early January 2025. This initiative will be picked up again as part of the wider HSENI Health Campaign scheduled for 2025-26 when further visits will be completed. A prestressing initiative will commence in January 2025 and will involve HSENI visiting all premises involved in prestressing.
MEMBERSHIP
If you’re interested in becoming a full or affiliate member of MPANI and get access to up to date Industry news and guidance don’t hesitate to give me a call on 07876136929. It would be great to have you on board. May I wish you all a safe and successful 2025.
AWARD WINNING COMPANY CONTINUES TO LEAD THE WAY IN SUSTAINABILITY
A leading force in the haulage, demolition & recycling sectors with over 52 years’ experience, R Heatrick Ltd (RHL) is no stranger to winning awards. It recently picked up another one at the annual Plant & Civil Engineer awards where it was recognised for its waste management and environmental excellence.
This family run business, which was established in 1969 by Robert Heatrick, operates a number of highly successful divisions in a variety of sectors, including haulage, demolition, recycling, skip hire, quarrying, and plant hire.
With hard work and dedication to quality at its core, the company has steadily evolved over the years from being a small
civil engineering and demolition firm into a pioneering force in waste management and environmental sustainability.
Today, it is run by Robert’s four sons and two grandsons, who together have followed through on the founder’s commitment to hard work, vision, and innovation, making significant strides in waste reduction, recycling, and the circular economy. It stands as a leader in environmental excellence, with a comprehensive and sustainable approach to waste management that serves as a benchmark in the industry.
The company’s origins are deeply rooted in civil engineering and demolition and it was through these sectors that R Heatrick first encountered the challenges and opportunities of Construction and
Demolition (C&D) waste management. Early projects involved demolishing concrete and brick structures and using on-site crushers to process the resulting waste into hardcore for site restoration. Surplus materials were transported to the company’s quarry, where they were further processed.These surplus crushed materials were then tested under WRAP Protocols and sold back into the construction industry.
CIRCULAR ECONOMY
This initial foray into waste recycling set the stage for the company’s future as a leader in the circular economy. By transforming demolition waste into valuable resources, R Heatrick reduced the need for new materials and
minimised landfill usage long before sustainability became a global priority.
Over the years, the company has completed numerous demolition projects working with government departments, councils, local construction firms and private individuals. RHL has an excellent reputation for completing demolition works, both large and small, on time and to the great satisfaction of clients. At the forefront of the RHL premise is Health and Safety. The demolition team
are all trained to industry standard and hold CSR cards, and the company has a dedicated Health and Safety officer.
EXPANDING FLEET
As the company’s reputation grew, so did its capabilities. R Heatrick expanded its fleet of vehicles, securing significant waste haulage contracts with Northern Ireland Water and arc21, the regional waste management group. These contracts marked a turning point in the company’s evolution, allowing it to scale its operations
and enhance its expertise in managing large volumes of waste efficiently. As a major force in haulage services both within Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, the company has a young modern fleet of vehicles that comprise over 50 fuel-efficient, and low-emission HGVs, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the business, together with 130 trailers, including bulk tippers, walking floor and ejector trailers specialising in waste disposal. It also provides low loader services throughout the UK.
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SKIP HIRE
A landmark moment came in 2012 with the acquisition of Skipway, a skip hire company who also operated a materials recovery facility. It was a move that firmly established R Heatrick as a key player in Northern Ireland’s waste management industry.
The company invested heavily in Skipway, developing it into one of the region’s most efficient MRFs. Two years later, in 2014, a second MRF was opened in Portadown, further enhancing the company’s capacity to handle diverse waste streams. Two more are now operating in Lisburn.
An Approved Waste Carrier and licenced waste management company, R Heatrick’s MRFs are designed to maximise the recycling potential of various waste streams. On-site sorting facilities separate cardboard, paper, rigid plastics, soft plastics, and other materials, ensuring that they are processed and sent to appropriate recycling outlets. This meticulous sorting process not only diverts waste from landfills but also supports the circular economy by supplying recycled materials to industries in need.
The company has also invested in specialised machinery to process biomass from the vast
amounts of waste timber it managed. This biomass is now used in Northern Ireland to produce renewable electricity, contributing to the region’s energy sustainability goals.
INNOVATIVE APPROACH
One of the company’s most significant innovations came in addressing the challenge of trommel fines. These fines, a by-product of dry waste processing, consist of fine sand, soil, and lightweight organic materials that are typically unsuitable for recycling.
In 2021, Trevor Heatrick spearheaded the company’s research into finding a sustainable
solution to this issue. After extensive consultations, RHL partnered with CDE Global to commission Northern Ireland’s first trommel fines washing plant, a £2 million investment that would prove transformative.
The company designated its quarry site in Lisburn for the new venture. The 50 tonne per hour plant was designed and engineered by industry experts in CDE. The innovative technological solutions have enabled the company to expand its contribution to the circular economy in Northern Ireland.
The process incorporates an AggMax modular log washer, EvoWash sand wash plant with Counter Flow Classification Unit (CFCU), AquaCycle thickener and static screens. The washing process removes the lightweight and organic material directly linked to Loss on Ignition and transforms the largest proportion of the fines waste stream into sellable products for the construction market.
The commissioning and installation of the plant has enabled RHL to recycle 98% of the C&D waste that it handles. The plant is producing coarse aggregates and coarse and fine sands, and the rubble wastes the company receives from councils, building sites and households are cleaned and crushed to produce other aggregates. All these products are sold to builders, civil engineering companies and concrete producers to close the loop on this waste stream.
NEW PROJECTS
The company have also started a new project on the site adjacent to the plant and all the concrete has been made onsite using recycled sands from the wash plant.
The shed now serves as a facility to process rigid plastics, primarily sourced from council amenity sites. These plastics are cleaned, baled, and sent for recycling, further expanding the company’s contribution to the circular economy.
The production of concrete Lego Blocks with recycled materials for its own use on site and for wider sale is another example
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of the commitment to using the resources created by the washing process.
The company recently introduced another waste stream to the wash plant, that of Street Sweepings, winning a contract to take street sweepings from Ards and North Down Borough Council. The wash plant can deal with a 25-tonne load of sweepings in less than 30 minutes, extracting the contaminants and contributing to the recycled aggregate products.
“The inclusion of street sweepings in our waste reduction efforts shows our dedication to expanding the positive environmental impact that this investment has and will make, and marks the beginning of further exploration and testing of other waste streams that have the potential to contribute to the circular economy.”
The company’s commitment to environmental excellence extends beyond waste processing. In early 2024, RHL completed
the construction of three new sheds, the largest being 25,000 sq. ft, using 100% recycled materials produced by its own wash plant. The projectsused approximately 2,000 metres of concrete made from recycled 20mm stone and grit sand, showcasing the company’s ability to integrate sustainable practices into every aspect of its operations. Additionally, R Heatrick is actively reducing its carbon footprint through digitisation. In the past two years, the company has made significant strides toward becoming paperless. Investments in cloud-based software, mobile apps, and tablets have reduced paper consumption by 85%, streamlining operations and reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional paper-based systems. Waste transfer notes, purchase orders, invoices, and other documents are now managed electronically, while customers can access skip and waste management services through an online portal.
INTO THE FUTURE
R Heatrick Ltd remarkable journey from civil engineering to environmental stewardship has set a new standard for waste management and sustainability in Northern Ireland. With a 98% recycling rate, the company has significantly reduced the volume of waste sent to landfills and saved over 34,000 tonnes of carbon so far in 2024. Its investments in cutting-edge technology, innovative recycling solutions, and sustainable business practices demonstrate a profound commitment to environmental excellence.
As RHL looks to the future, its legacy of innovation, responsibility, and environmental leadership will continue to shape the waste management industry and the circular economy, serving as a model for other businesses, while making a positive impact on the planet.
CDE HELPS TACKLE TROMMEL FINES AS FIRST PLANT BEGINS OPERATING
Waste management firm Skipway acquired by the R. Heatrick Group in 2012 has invested in a new trommel fines recycling plant, commissioned by waste recycling experts CDE
Designed and engineered by CDE, the new 50tph plant is situated at Skipway’s site outside Lisburn, County Antrim. The completed plant will significantly enhance the company’s current operations and contribute to the major improvement of the sustainability of the business.
Innovative solutions devised by CDE have equipped Skipway with the technology to advance the circular economy in Northern Ireland with this unique trommel fines recycling plant.
Skipway’s primary aim was to divert trommel fines from landfill and convert the material into a resource by producing recycled product with the same specification and
quality as quarry grade sand, therefore making it suitable for concrete and building products while also improving the quality of other recycled aggregates such as pipe bedding and recycled hardcore.
CDE proposed a trommel fines wet processing plant, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, to equip Skipway with the means to wash & segregate material and recover materials from C&D waste.
The plant, which incorporates AggMaxTM modular logwasher, EvoWashTM sand wash plant with Counter Flow Classification Unit (CFCUTM), AquaCycleTM thickener and static screens, operates at a rate of 50tph.
Comments Fergal Campbell, Business Development Manager for CDE: “Plants like this are the future of the industry in their ability to minimise waste and maximise value. It’s been a pleasure to work with Skipway and we really look forward to
ENGINEERED FOR RESULTS
seeing how this partnership can contribute to Northern Ireland’s circular economy.”
Adds Trevor Heatrick, Director, at Skipway: “It was an easy choice for us when we decided to invest in the new plant. Compared to other manufacturers, CDE has the edge. We had numerous other options in front of us, however CDE displayed their knowledge and expertise from the sales stage through to the delivery of the project. Every aspect of the material processing that they highlighted as being required, we can see the benefit of now.”
Our proven wet processing solutions recover maximum value from challenging waste streams and give you the power to divert tonnes of waste from landfill.
Our plants recover 80 – 100% of valuable materials, creating new revenue streams with exceptional return on investment.
An integrated water management system recycles up to 90% of process water for immediate re-use in the system, significantly reducing footprint and maintenance of settling ponds.
Limited manufacture skips, containers, balers and a range of waste containment and management equipment at its steel fabrication factory at Cladybeg in County Armagh.
It has an extensive customer base throughout the UK and Ireland, supplying a variety of organisations such as local councils, private contractors and businesses like R Heatrick with their specific waste management requirements.
Established almost a quarter of a century ago, the company’s modern and well equipped manufacturing facilities on the Rockstown Road at Cladybeg outside Armagh produces an extensive and impressive product range that includes open skips, open and enclosed roll on/off containers and tipping bins, and they can also provide used skip and hook loader trucks.
What sets MT Waste apart from its competitors is that it offers its customers a complete package for its waste containment and management needs – from design and manufacture to individual specifications and requirements through to delivery to the customers’ own premises.
The company’s aftersales service includes a broad range of spare parts to ensure customers’ domestic, commercial and industrial waste needs are always met.
Trevor Heatrick with his new roll-on container from MT Waste.
QUARRY & RECYCLING SOLUTIONS MOVING ON UP
QRS was established in 2017 by Dougie Watt initially focusing on providing a high level of service to businesses in the quarrying and recycling sectors, but it has since transitioned into one that sells a range of new and used equipment.
Its success has seen QRS take on a number of growing dealerships for leading brands such as Terex Ecotec, Terex MPS, and Terex Recycling Systems, in addition to Amerex Fire Suppression Systems.
Based in Dungannon in County Tyrone, QRS is also moving into the supply of new forestry equipment, with a range of wood chippers and other related products from Lindana TP and Europe Forestry.
All of this has enabled the company to grow its already
industry experts and equipping
QRS also believes it is important
offers its clients regular site visits
perform regular service tasks and carry out machine assessments.
So, if it’s a new or used piece of equipment, parts or accessories, you need, there’s no one better
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PAUL FEELY & ASSOCIATES: TAKING THE STRESS OUT OF HEALTH & SAFETY MANAGEMENT
Paul Feely & Associates have congratulated their client, R. Heatrick Ltd on winning the Waste Management & Environmental Excellence Award.
With over 50 years of experience, their dedication to raising standards in waste management and environmental sustainability sets an inspiring example. “We’re delighted to have supported them in achieving their health, safety, and environmental goals.”
Managing Health & Safety can often feel overwhelming. The challenges are significant: navigating HSA/HSE inspections, avoiding rejected paperwork, and protecting your workforce while ensuring compliance. That’s where Paul Feely & Associates come in.
With over 22 years of experience, Paul Feely & Associates provides tailored, practical support to industries like construction, manufacturing, logistics, and recycling.
“Our Safety Retainer Package offers all the benefits of in-house health & safety expertise
without the full-time costs. We begin with a detailed gap analysis to identify strengths and areas for improvement, then deliver a customised action plan. From site inspections and toolbox talks to policy updates and compliance monitoring, we take the stress out of health & safety management.
“We also offer flexible ad-hoc services, including CDM support, PSCS and PSDP services, audits, third-party accreditation assistance, bespoke training, and environmental consultancy to align with sustainability goals.
“Businesses like R. Heatrick Ltd trust us to protect their teams, streamline compliance, and strengthen client relationships. Their success underscores the value of prioritising health, safety, and environmental excellence.”
If you’re ready to eliminate health & safety stress and protect both your team and your reputation, contact Paul Feely & Associates today.
Congratulations to R. Heatrick Ltd on their Waste Management & Environmental Excellence Award! Their success underscores the importance of prioritising health, safety, and sustainability in todayʼs business landscape.
At Paul Feely & Associates, weʼre here to help businesses safeguard their teams and meet compliance requirements with tailored support backed by over 22 years of experience. Our services include:
• Safety Retainer Package: Ongoing support tailored to your needs.
• Ad-Hoc Services: From audits and inspections to bespoke training.
We understand the challenges and provide practical, cost-effective solutions to streamline compliance, reduce risks, and protect your workforce.
STATIC & PORTABLE COMPACTORS FROM NUMAC WHERE CUSTOMERS COME FIRST
With almost five decades of heritage and experience in the steel fabrication business in Ireland, Numac manufacture a wide product range to serve customers in the agriculture, construction, waste management and recycling sectors. With clients across the UK & Ireland, and elsewhere abroad, the company’s impressive product portfolio includes a comprehensive range of both static and portable waste compactors, together with a varied choice of bespoke and custom designed containers and skips, in addition to multi-purpose trailers, dump trailers and low loaders. Headed up by joint managing directors Johnny and James Maguire, who have a wealth of experience in the industry, the company’s manufacturing base in Mayobridge, just outside Newry in County Down, employs the latest state-of-the-art equipment including specialist plasma cutting and paint facilities. Numac’s range of static compactors, for example, are ideal for disposing large volumes of commercial and medium density industrial waste. Static waste
compactors are mainly used for general dry waste, including office and retail waste. The entry level unit is the Numac NS20, which is especially designed for smaller areas such as basements and car parks. The NS40, NS60 and NS80 offer a charge box volume from 1.1m3 to 2.7m and can cope with any type of waste. The larger static compactors are particularly suitable for large businesses including factories, council recycling centres, supermarkets and hospitals.
Portable waste compactors are more suitable for general and food waste, where environmental and hygiene requirements demand a sealed unit. The NP10 and NP50 portable compactors offer a charge box volume from 8m3 to 24m3 and can cope with any type of waste. Like the static range, the larger portable waste compactors are ideal for places such as factories, council recycling centres, supermarkets and hospitals. Numac’s range of compactors, all meeting CHEM standards, are installed on the customer’s site by a qualified team of engineers who will also provide training – and all compactors come now with telemetry controls which allows Numac to remotely access them. They also have a built-in tracker which shows the exact location and fill levels of each one.
“As a family business, we understand the need to deliver the best value for money to our customers whilst ensuring our operational practices are of the highest quality.We have a simple approach to doing business – our customers come first – and great service is critical to a long term business relationship.”
special focus on
SIMPLICITY GROUP: DRIVING EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY FOR R HEATRICK
As Ireland’s exclusive premium provider of Webfleet, Simplicity Group has become the trusted partner for leading transport businesses like R Heatrick. Known for their innovative solutions and exceptional customer support, Simplicity Group delivers class-leading telematics and telecommunications systems tailored to businesses’ specific needs.
R Heatrick, a company that places a strong focus on CO2 reporting and sustainability, operates a fleet of 37 HGVs and skip lorries using Webfleet telematics. Thanks to Simplicity Group’s expertise and support, the company has achieved measurable improvements across operational, financial, and environmental areas.
Commented Matthew Heatrick, Director at R Heatrick: “Simplicity Group has been a fantastic partner, handling both our telecommunications and telematics needs seamlessly. Their Webfleet solution has revolutionised our fleet operations.
“From simplifying tachograph management and ensuring compliance to improving driver behaviour through OptiDrive 360, we’ve seen
significant gains in efficiency and cost savings. The CO2 reporting has been instrumental in reducing our environmental impact, aligning perfectly with our sustainability goals.
“I highly recommend Simplicity Group to any business looking to optimise their fleet operations and streamline their communications.”
Webfleet telematics, combined with Simplicity Group’s comprehensive account management, has delivered R Heatrick significant value in several critical areas:
• CO2 Reporting: Actively monitoring and reducing the fleet’s environmental impact.
• Sustainability: Supporting long-term goals through data-driven decision-making.
• Driver Scoring: Using OptiDrive 360 to enhance driver behaviour and improve fuel efficiency.
• Cost Savings: Identifying opportunities to cut operational expenses and maximise fleet efficiency.
Jamie Marsh, Managing Director of Simplicity Group, highlighted the success of this partnership: “We pride ourselves on delivering tailored, customer-centric solutions that drive measurable value for businesses. Our partnership with R Heatrick is a prime example of how the right technology, coupled with dedicated support, can optimise fleet performance and align operations with sustainability targets. It’s fantastic to see Webfleet delivering tangible results, and we’re equally proud to provide R Heatrick with seamless telecommunications solutions that streamline their day-to-day communications.”
The decade-long partnership between R Heatrick and Simplicity Group underscores the trust and tangible results delivered year after year. By combining Webfleet’s cutting-edge telematics with Simplicity Group’s expertise and hands-on support, R Heatrick has successfully optimised its operations, improved compliance, and made significant progress toward sustainability goals.
ROAN PLANT SOLUTIONS PUTS SERVICE AND SUPPORT AT THE HEART OF ITS BUSINESS
Since Kevin Kelly decided to start up his own business about a year ago offering a range of crushers and stacker, his company - Roan Plant Solutions – has gone from strength to strength, driven by a desire to offer unrivalled customer service.
With an extensive knowledge of the industry, his move coincided with him acquiring dealerships for the Omega Crushing and Screening range of crushers and the Barford range of stackers.
“Both ranges are renowned for their build quality and reliability and since taking on the dealerships we have been able
to grow a steady customer base,” says Kevin, whose company is based in Dungannon in County Tyrone. “I pride myself in offering the best possible service and support which is every bit as important as supplying top of the range equipment.”
That equipment includes the Omega J1065T tracked electric jaw crusher which is designed specifically for quarry, mining, and recycling applications. It is a powerful and reliable crusher that is built to deliver exceptional performance and efficiency.
Also in the Omega range is the J1065M Wheeled Mobile Crusher which boasts the well proven Omega 1065 Jaw crusher as its
core component and comes with dual power options and an all-electric drive system.
Meanwhile, the Barford range of stackers puts the focus on reliability, simplicity and functionality, providing efficient and dependable material handling solutions, and guaranteed to get the job done.
“All our equipment is backed up by a reliable aftersales service which includes not only routine maintenance, but also expert advice and support where and when needed,” says Kevin. “We aim to be a partner with our customers in their business and not just simply an equipment
supplier – and we are focused on building long term working relationships with them.”
Roan Plant Solutions also offers customers the opportunity to acquire good quality, leading brand used equipment and the company carries extensive stocks of spare parts and accessories for all of the product ranges, thus minimising the potential for costly downtime.
“Roan Plant Solutions represents the new way forward, and I'm happy to be at the heart of it as the business grows and expands its customer base and product offering across Ireland," says Kevin.
D A FORGIE NAMED MERLO UK’S DEALER OF THE YEAR
Merlo UK recently hosted its annual Dealer Conference, at Crewe Hall in Cheshire, welcoming construction and agricultural dealer principals, and members of their senior teams to a two-day event filled with insightful presentations, recognition and innovation.
It was also an event to remember for Northern Ireland dealers D A Forgie who have branches in Limavady and Lisburn. They picked up the ‘Overall Dealer of the Year’ Award.
The annual conference, titled Together We Thrive, featured a wide range of topics presented by industry experts and Merlo team members including market insights from the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) and Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA)who provided valuable overviews of the current industry landscape.
Merlo’s Finance partners, DeLage Landen (DLL) outlined financing options to support both dealers and their customers, while Mattia Bodino, Global Events Manager delivered
an engaging presentation about the Merlo Group. Additionally, Merlo’s departmental teams provided key updates on Marketing, Aftersales & Parts, Training, Merlo Telematics, Product Development and Sales ensuring attendees gained a rounded understanding of the tools and strategies available to support their growth.
Shaun Groom, Merlo UK’s General Manager commented:
“We’ve packed a lot into our conference this year. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to share our vision for working together with our dealers, thank them for their support, and together, look forward to embracing the opportunities and innovations that lie ahead in 2025.”.
The conference was also an opportunity to recognise and thank dealers for their outstanding
performance. In addition to D A Forgie, other winners included:
• Parts Dealer of the Year: Cooks Midlands Ltd
• Service Dealer of the Year: Southwest Handling Ltd
• AG Sales Dealer of the Year: Wiltshires
• CE Sales Dealer of the Year: BH Plant Sales
Long service awards were also presented to acknowledge dealer commitment to Merlo:
• 5 Years: Wm W.M. Rose & Sons Ltd
• 15 Years: Kemp Engineering
• 20 Years: Lister Wilder Ltd
• 30 Years: Ramsay & Jackson Ltd and Ancroft Tractors
The conference also provided an opportunity to unveil the DM9 Dumper to Merlo’s construction dealers. Available to order now, this 9-tonne model is designed for maximum operator safety, usability and efficiency. Previously previewed at Plantworx in 2023, the DM9 is now in production and reinforces Merlo’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
Delegates at Merlo Dealer Conference outside Crewe Hall Hotel, Cheshire.
Mark Lennox, Sales Director, DA Forgie receiving Merlo Dealer of the Year, 2024 Award from Jenny Radcliffe, and Shaun Groom, General Manager, Merlo UK and Ireland.
TREE SHEARING DEMO DAYS AT NORTHERN LIFT TRUCKS
Northern Lift Trucks recently hosted a tree shearing demonstration along with MDE and QRS to highlight how HD Hyundai and Manitou machinery and their attachments can work together in partnership.
Held over two days in November, the demonstrations attracted plenty of interest, with a range of Manitou and HD Hyundai machines working in real life settings, using forestry attachments such as pruning grapple saws and grippers, alongside other equipment including a Terex Ecotec TDS815 compact shredder, perfect for processing oversized roots and stumps.
Apart from the live demonstrations, a number of experts were on hand to discuss and answer any questions or queries from those attending.
ROKBAK HAUL TRACK
TELEMATICS BOOST UPTIME WITH PROACTIVE
MAINTENANCE
In the earthmoving, quarrying and mining businesses, equipment reliability is paramount. Every hour of downtime can mean lost productivity and increased costs, which is why fleet managers are increasingly turning to telematics as an enabler for proactive maintenance and operational efficiency.
According to Garry Moore, a customer support manager for Scottish articulated dump truck (ADT) brand Rokbak, telematics is no longer a ‘nice to have’ but an essential tool for business success.
“More and more customers have been engaging with our Haul Track telematics system over the last few years,” Garry says. “Some even have full ‘command centres’ filled with screens as they monitor data from their fleets in real-time.”
The Rokbak Haul Track telematics system comes as standard on the brand’sRA30 and RA40 ADTs, designed to help customers monitor and maintain their machines with ease. Its simplicity and user-friendly interface are what set it apart, enabling customers to access actionable insights and make data-driven decisions about their fleet management.
“Our customers are hardworking people who need hardworking trucks– and Haul Track ensures they can optimise their operations without adding complexity,” Garry explains.
For example, the online portal includes tools such as Fleet Manager and Fleet Tracker,
which allow users to customise dashboards according to their priorities and targets, set maintenance parameters and receive automated reports and email alerts.
Another reason for Haul Track’s growing popularity is the comprehensive onboarding and training Rokbak provides to help customers tailor the system totheir specific needs. “We work closely with our customers to ensure Haul Track fits seamlessly into their operations and that they’re getting the most value from it,” Garry says.
KEY TO UPTIME AND LONGEVITY
When fleet managers have an accurate picture of machine health and status in real time, they are able to stay on top of regular maintenance requirements and address minor issues before they can turn into serious and expensive problems. This proactive maintenance approach leads to greater equipment uptime and a longer lifespan, as well as a reduced total cost of ownership (TCO).
“There are so many instances where timely intervention can protect crucial components and prevent major failures,” Garry explains.
“The drop box, for example, requires precise oil levels and has a short service interval. Haul Track helps ensure routine servicing is completed on schedule by sending timely email reminders for maintenance. This prevents unnecessary wear on components and promotes the longevity of the drivetrain.”
Besides service reminders, Haul Track can also be configured to directly alert fleet managers via email to fault codes that signal potential issues before they escalate. This capability not only protects key components but also helps maintain effective operation, minimise downtime and protect the owner’s investment.
“To give further examples, issues with the clutch or injector in the engine could result in significant downtime and costly repairs if left unnoticed,” Garry continues. “By identifying problems early, Haul Track facilitates timely maintenance interventions that keep equipment running efficiently over the long term.”
DESIGNED WITH CUSTOMER IN MIND
Rokbak’s commitment to simplicity, reliability and customer-centric support is reflected throughout its offer. Recognising that many customers operate mixed-brand fleets, Rokbak has integrated the Haul Track telematics system with the AEMP 2.0 API, the industry-wide standard that enables seamless management of telematics data across various equipment brands.
Rokbak also offers an On-Board Weigh load system that comes with a separate HMI (human machine interface) screen connecting to Haul Track to provide live payload data.
“It’s important to strike the right balance between productivity and machine longevity,” Garry explains. “On the one hand, carrying too little load can actually increase wear and tear on your machines because operators will be making more journeys than needed to transport the target volume of material. On the other hand, excessive loads risk overburdening critical systems and compromising safety.”
When combined with the On-Board Weigh system, Haul Track helps operators to maintain the ideal payload, promoting efficient operation, protecting key components and supporting the long-term health and reliability of the equipment.
“We focus on making our two models–the RA30 and RA40 ADTs –the best solutions they can be for our customers,” Garry concludes. “Whether through our durable trucks or the valuable insights from Haul Track, our customers can rest assured that we’ve got their back.”
Karen McShane
Immediate Past President of CIHT
WORKING TO IMPROVE CITY CENTRE TRAFFIC FLOW
In December Belfast City Centre experienced its highest levels of congestion within the city centre and media picked up on the difficulties that motorists had in the festive period. Despite attending a lot of events this month I want to consider how traffic levels have returned to more normal levels,how have they impacted upon the increased delays, and I will outline what choices the Department have to improve capacity for next year by considering what positive action they have taken.
The Department for Infrastructure (DFI) are responsible for the majority of our highway network unlike other parts of these islands where local councils have a larger role to play. Approximately every year DFI release a report on the levels of traffic on a number of identified route in and around Northern Ireland.
An examination of this report shows that the M1 at Belfast carried 91,300 vehicles in 2018. The last published year was 2023 and it shows the flow has again reached 91,390 vehicles as an annual average daily traffic flow indicating that the flow from the west had reached pre-covid levels. Looking at the other side of the city in 2018 the M2/M5 carried 101,140 vehicles at Fortwilliam and looking at other routes such as the Upper Newtownards Road at 31,140 and Saintfield Road at nearly 30,000 vehicles this gives us a total of 253,850 vehicle either in or out of the city in an average day.
It is not any surprise that this level of traffic flow leads to congestion on our narrow city centre streets. DFI acknowledge that a portion of this flow does not enter the city centre but we have not included the Bangor Road or Sydenham Bypass or many other routes in this calculation.
DFI have reported that a portion of traffic travelling through the city centre does not have business there and we can only ascertain that his traffic is trying to avoid the congestion on the likes of the Westlink.
FINITE BUDGET
DFI have a finite budget and have a much wider remit than just traffic. They have been proactive in encouraging us to move to alternative modes of travel and pre Christmas Translink had reported that they had carried an extra 400,000 passengers last year, showing that a lot of people did take advice and took a modal shift. Some of these services did get stuck in the congestion and more work needs to be undertaken to relieve traffic flow in Belfast city centre and increase road network capacity for motorists to avoid this happening next year.
DFI can consider several key methods which can be considered as carrots and sticks. So far,a lot of carrots or incentives,have been used trying to encourage us to change but other cities have considered sticks which
are methods that motorists will not warm to. This month I will consider the Carrots.
DFI are currently optimizing their traffic management systems. They have implemented advanced traffic signal control systems that adapt in realtime to traffic conditions, optimizing flow and reducing delays.
However at the time of writing places like Great Victoria Street were still operating on a plan, meaning that the signal detectors were not changing to pick up approaching traffic. I tested this at 4:45am this morning and had to wait for the cycle of lights to go around before I got a green light, despite the other routes having no vehicles. So, there is more work to do here. Other incentives involve the use of intelligent transport systems (ITS) to provide real-time
Karen McShane, Neil Johnston, Cherryanne Cooper, Deborah Simm and Shard D Kerai at CIHT annual luncheon.
information to drivers about traffic conditions, road closures, and alternative routes.
We have these on the Westlink and some of this work was initially funded by the Odyssey project and Sainsbury at Sprucefield as part of a planning condition to develop these two sites many years ago. The system has been improved since then, but any future expansion is dependent on DFI receiving more funding and a need to prioritise this technology.
Pre Christmas Translink did improve public transport and introduced additional night time services which were funded from a variety of different pots. I used several of these and it was standing room only, so the evidence does suggest that if people have a genuine choice they will use these services.
OPTIONS TO CONSIDER
How do we get funding to ensure these are extended throughout the year rather than just on the run up to Christmas? Enhancing public transport options to reduce the number of vehicles on the road can include increasing the frequency and reliability of buses and expanding the glider network.
There is also an online discussion on reinvigorating the “Circle Line” as part of the All Island Strategic Rail Review. Again, this is a great idea and opens up the network to more users but needs to get funded.
As part of the alternative methodology DFI have promoted park-and-ride facilities to encourage commuters to leave their cars outside the city centre. These facilities are well used and again it shows that as a carrot this works.
CLIMATE CHANGE TARGETS
DFI have promoted active travel infrastructure as a means of reaching our climate change targets. They have invested in cycling and walking infrastructure to encourage alternative modes of transport.
This includes dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian zones and have implemented the Belfast bike-sharing schemes to increase the uptake of cycling. If we do not provide the safe infrastructure for active travel modes then people will not use it.
So as a carrot this is something that we
have to continue to invest in to improve the network for these travel modes.
As part of the investment DFI have considered road expansions and upgrades by identifying and expand key bottleneck areas in the road network to improve capacity. These small ideas of sweating the network allow DFI to squeeze out the additional traffic capacity but can only do so much and this alone does not solve the problem.
DFI have upgraded existing roads to accommodate more traffic, potentially including additional lanes or dedicated bus lanesin an attempt toguarantee the bus journey time. Without this guarantee inevitably bus services get cancelled as the bus has not reached its new departure position.
So DFI and operators have given us the carrots, is this enough to get us to change?
Next month I will continue this debate with some of the Sticks that the Department could consider using if we do not take on board the carrots and try and start to change our own travel habits.
Happy New Year.
Karen McShane, Kim Kelly and Catriona Canning at Local Women Awards.
Karen McShane discussing traffic in Belfast on BBCNewsline.
Karen McShane, Karen Craig and Lord Mayor Cllr Micky Murray at Belfast Chamber
Golda Burrows, Karen McShane and Helen Beggs at PCE Awards.
County Tyrone engineering firm fined after employee seriously injured
Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, a Co. Tyrone engineering company has been fined for failing to ensure the safety of employees while working at an automatic lathe.
At Dungannon Crown Court, the company was fined £2,000 after earlier pleading guilty to a single health and safety offence.
The Court heard that an employee sustained serious hand injuries while using emery cloth at an automatic lathe. A metal component
had been placed into the lathe and the emery cloth was applied by hand for the purposes of smoothing and resizing the component.
During this process, the employee’s right hand became entangled with the rotating lathe shaft. After transfer to hospital, the extent of the injuries resulted in the amputation of three fingers on his right hand. The employee also sustained fractures to his right hand and forearm, and fractures to his left hand.
HSENI Inspector, Kevin Campbell said: “Employers must ensure they complete
a thorough risk assessment of the work process and implement proper controls to prevent harm to their workers. It is never acceptable to apply emery cloth directly by hand on a rotating automatic or manual metal working machine such as lathes.”
It was further established that the Company did not have an adequate risk assessment relating to the use of the lathe, and that it did not have adequate documented procedures or work instruction for use of the lathe.
Glass company fined after fatal accident involving employee
Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), a County Down-based glass processing company has been fined for failing to ensure the safety of its employees.
The case stems from an incident on 19 May 2022 that resulted in the death of a 65-year-old employee and at Downpatrick Crown Court, the company was fined £30,000 after pleading
guilty to a single breach of health and safety legislation.
The Court heard that on 19 May 2022, the employee was fatally injured while working at the company’s premises. During the incident, a large pack of glass, known in industry as an “endcap”, collapsed and fatally struck him, resulting in his death.
Speaking after the hearing, HSENI Inspector, Sophie Pearson, said: “Employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment and to implement
appropriate control measures when handling heavy loads and materials such as packs of glass or “end-caps”. The handling and storage of large packs of glass presents significant risks, and it is essential that these risks are thoroughly assessed and managed to prevent serious incidents. “This accident was entirely preventable and could have been avoided if suitable control measures had been in place to safely secure the large packs of
glass. It is critical that businesses handling large heavy goods and materials, ensure that storage processes and safe systems of work are adequate and that employees are suitably trained to safely work with and process these heavy loads.”
The HSENI investigation found that the company failed to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment for the storage, handling, and processing of large glass packs. Further to this the company did not have sufficient measures in place, to ensure safe storage of the end-caps, which posed a significant hazard. The company also failed to ensure that employees were properly trained to manage these risks.
Westmeath company fined €125,000 after worker fell from height
A Westmeath company has been fined at Mullingar District Court after pleading guilty to breaches of charges under Health and Safety legislation. A fine of €125,000 was handed down by Judge Keelan Johnson. Costs of approximately €6,000 are also to be paid.
The court heard two employees were installing new electrical cables across the top of a roof of a maintenance shed
when one stepped on and fell through a fragile roof light, which was partially camouflaged by dust and debris, and fell over 7 meters to the concrete floor below.
The judge said the company and their management team failed to take adequate precautions and to ensure that a safe system of work was in place to prevent persons working on a roof from being exposed to inadequate edge protection and fragile roof lights.
Mark Cullen, Assistant Chief Executive, HSA, said: “It is essential that employers manage and conduct work activities being carried out at the place of work to ensure the safety, health and welfare of all employees. We urge employers and their workers to think about the task you’re asking others to carry out, or that you are about to undertake, and to conduct an appropriate risk assessment before starting the work.”
awards 2024
Shaun Cunningham and Colin Doherty of Versaffix with Ian Heatrick and Trevor Heatrick of R. Heatrick Ltd.
Richard Sloan, LJ Campbell and Sophie Campbell of Northern Lift Trucks, and Anthony Hogben of HD Hyundai.
Jacqueline O’Neill, Belfast International Airport and Kylie Best, Power NI.
Stanis Dougherty of Alan Milne with Richard Sloane of Northern Lift Trucks.
Stephen Thompson and Luke Green, of Finning.
Adrian Logan, Niamh Fagan, Golda Burrows and Kieran Buchanan.
awards 2024
The impressive achievements of individuals and companies working across the industry throughout the past year have been recognised at the annual Plant & Civil Engineer magazine’s Plant, Construction & Quarry Awards during a glittering ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in South Belfast.
With 17 awards presented on the night, it was a real challenge for our independent judging panel to decide on who should win one of the prestigious trophies because of the high quality of entries, all of which highlighted the very best of what our industry offers.
AWARDS NIGHT CELEBRATES THE VERY BEST IN OUR INDUSTRY
It is clear there is a wealth of talent right across the board, employing state of the art, innovative technologies and displaying great versality and determination on challenging and sometimes complex projects - from infrastructure and highways to new buildings and retail outlets and a whole lot more.
A lot of hard work, personal sacrifice and ingenuity in our industry go unnoticed and unrecognised, which is why we stage these awards and each and every one of our finalists are to be congratulated on their achievements throughout 2024.
Plant & Civil Engineer’s General Sales Manager Golda Burrows and Business Development Manager Martin Elliman both agreed that this year our judges had an extremely difficult task in narrowing the entries down to the finalists and choosing the worthy winners. The quality of submissions this year was exceptionally high and selecting the most deserving winners was not easy. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible. Their support fuels the recognition of excellence and sets the stage for inspiring new standards within our industry.
Always a highlight of our awards evening, the time when we honour one of the many stalwarts and kingpins of our industry, this year’s Special Recognition award went to Product Support Account Manager with Finning UK & Ireland,Parker Anderson, who began his career in the industry almost 50 years ago. Today, he travel across the whole of Northern Ireland, meeting, supplying and supporting Caterpillar customers with whom he has built up strong and enduring relationships and indeed friendships.
The nominated charity for the event, which was hosted by television and radio sports presenter Adrian Logan, was Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice. Every day they provide specialist palliative care for babies, children and adults living with life-limiting illnesses across Northern Ireland. Generous donations from all those attending the awards ceremony totalled an incredible £6,500, so well done!
WINNERS
PLANT HIRE COMPANY:
RAILWAY PLANT SERVICES LTD
EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE:
RIVERRIDGE & RMP HIRE
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE: CEMCOR
LTD & P AT O’DONNELL & CO
HIGH ACHIEVER: COLE GROUNDSWORK CONTRACTS’ JOHNNY CONNOLLY
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY: CREAGH CONCRETE
MINERAL PRODUCTS SITE (QUARRY): KILWAUGHTER MINERALS LARNE
WASTE MANAGEMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE: R HEATRICK LTD
HEALTH & SAFETY: MORROW CONTRACTS
SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR: NATIONAL BUILDING SERVICES & KEMEK
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD:
PRODUCT SUPPORT ACCOUNT
MANAGER WITH FINNING UK & IRELAND – PARKER ANDERSON
QUARRY MANAGER : KILWAUGHTER MINERALS’ EDWARD NETHERY
Edward Nethery - Kilwaughter Minerals Gerard Lawless - Breedon Group
Providing customers with global safety standards and the very latest in explosive technology, in 2023 both companies rebranded to adopt a single identity, Kemek.
From manufacturing to monitoring, Kemek blend innovation with expertise to deliver excellent results every time. It offers a wide range of compliant products and trusted services across the Quarrying, Civil and Mining supply chain.
EDWARD NETHERY KILWAUGHTER MINERALS
awards 2024
Ciaran O'Callaghan and PJ O'Donnell of Pat O'Donnell and Co. with Peter Toth of Enva.
David Cleland, Andy Robinson, Gerard Lawless, Paul Gribben and Sydney Montgomery, with Breedon White Mountain.
Parker Anderson, Trevor WIlson, Richard Murphy and Peter Weir, with Finning.
Dominic McClements, Helen Beggs and Martin Elliman of P&CE.
TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR
IPS IRELAND
With strong partnerships with the world renowned measurement and survey equipment provider Leica Geosystems and tiltrotator manufacturer Steelwrist, Innovate was founded by Martin Graham, who embarked on an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey.
Starting from a home office, he expanded the company’s customer base from scratch to over 600 by 2023, testament to his relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction and value delivery. A small but dynamic team thrives on efficient communication and collaboration, fostering a close-knit work environment that empowers it to deliver unmatched customer experiences, taking a proactive approach to address any potential issues. It is that dedication, coupled with embracing innovation, that has propelled it to the forefront of the industry.
Creagh Concrete, Cole Groundwork
WASTES MANAGEMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE
QRS was founded in 2014 by Dougie Watt and over time it has transitioned from a company focused on service into one that has established dealerships for leading
RiverRidge, R Heatrick and
should ever be any issues, then its team of trained engineers will always be on hand to resolve any problems.
QRS prides itself on employing industry experts and equipping them with the knowledge and tools required to succeed. This allows QRS to provide you with the best possible solution for your business, whether it be new or used equipment, parts and accessories or preventative or reactive maintenance.
OVER 50 YEARS OF MOVING IRELAND
Each solution we supply from Volvo Construction Equipment, including the ground-breaking Electric models; Volvo Penta engines; Sennebogen material handlers; and Kohler engines comes with a nationwide team of qualified service engineers, a next-day parts delivery system and an all-island branch network.
HEALTH & SAFETY AWARD
SPONSORS
Pat O’Donnell & Co, a family owned and operated business, is Ireland’s largest supplier of plant machinery and equipment. It represents the complete range of Volvo Construction Equipment both Heavy and Compact, Volvo Penta Marine & Industrial Engines, Rammer Hammers and Breakers, Sennebogen Material Handlers and Kohler Engines.
Lowry Building & Civil Engineering,
With a Head Office in Dublin and three branches located in Cork, Galway and Portadown it offers the most extensive after-sales support available on the island of Ireland.
It employs a team of Volvo Trained Service Technicians, and has excellent Parts Availability over the counter, which ensures that customers can invest in quality capital equipment safe in the knowledge that Pat O’Donnell & Co has both the parts and expertise available to maintain both the productivity and profitability of machinery.
Carved by a lifetime of hard work, Rokbak articulated haulers are built to perform. Day after day. Decade after decade. From the heat of the desert to the cold of the arctic, you can rely on Rokbak.
MINERAL PRODUCTS SITE OF THE YEAR
for decades – like their parents and even grandparents before them.
Sleator Plant are the Rokbak Trucks dealer for Northern Ireland, whose manufacturer trained team are always on hand and happy to help.
With a fully operational workshop and parts store, Sleator Plant supply genuine Rokbak parts for all Rokbak machinery needs.
Cemcor, Shale Quarry, Dungannon
Cemcor, Limestone Quarry, Cookstown and Breedon Group, Temple Quarry
Scan here to watch our new corp video
awards 2024
Gavin Smith, Owen Buttle, Steven Fowler and Helen Selkin of Merlo with Austin Lynch of Export&Freight magazine.
Michael McKeown, Moussa Chidiac, James McKeague, Kevin McKeague and Nelson Hannah, with Creagh Concrete.
Aoiffe McConaght, Sophie Maxwell, LJ Campbell, Gerard Harbinson and Noel Heasley, with Northern Lift Trucks.
Neil Rainey, Ciaran McCann and Kemek Team.
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR
SPONSORS
extensive experience working with businesses in a variety of sectors.
It can offer local and quick decisionmaking, alongside a personalised service with individually tailored packages and funding solutions that directly meet the needs of your business.
SPONSORS
RiverRidge,
Dennison JCB is the JCB forklift, tractor, generator and construction machine dealer in Northern Ireland and County Donegal. Dennison JCB aims to provide customers with competent, responsive and excellent service.
SATURDAY 12TH APRIL 2025
AT GROSVENOR HOUSE, LONDON
TICKETS AND SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
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Adrian Logan, Chris Beeney, Kieran Fegan, Railway Plant Services (Winner) and
AWARD WINNING TELEHANDLERS
Congratulations to Cole Engineering
Merlo UK are proud to sponsor the Civil Engineering Award of the year, recognising the significant contributions individuals have made to the industry.
CIVIL ENGINEERING COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Merlo is the market leader in telehandlers with its rotating turret, patented suspension cab and hydrostatic transmission. An innovative and extremely versatile industrial company, it designs, develops SPONSORS
Adrian Logan, Conor Cole,
SPECIALIST
SPONSORS
Milne Tractors supply Agri & Construction Machinery
awards 2024
Johnny Connelly, Gemma Easey, Victor Gallagher, Danielle Gannon and Ryan Easey, with Cole Groundworks.
Gordon Best, Regional Director MPANI; Padraig Venney, Regional Director Northern Ireland NHBC; and Brian Pryce, HSCNI.
Christian Kennedy and Linton Kennedy of LR Kennedy with Matt Hogg of Takeuchi Excavators.
Paddy Raff.
Sleator Plant Team.
Catherine McQuillan and Aisling McParland of RSK Ireland.
Golda Burrows.
Adrian Logan.
Martin Elliman.
SPONSORS
WASTE MANAGEMENT TEAM OF THE YEAR
WINNERS
SPONSORS
RESOURCES & DYNAMIC SCREENING SYSTEMS
HD Hyundai Construction Equipment Europe and sell quality compact, crawler and wheeled excavators and wheel loaders for the construction, demolition, forestry, quarrying and waste and recycling industries.
Finalists
Recon Resources & Dynamic
Screening Systems, Terrier Pest Control NI and Re-Gen
SETTING THE STANDARD
CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OF THE YEAR
Lowry Building & Civil Engineering for Altnagelvin
Tower Restaurant Refurbishment, Creagh Concrete for Rapidres Project in Poole, Dorset, at the West Quay Marina, Cole Groundwork Contracts for PAR 10 PAR 11
Mercury Paris and Lowry Building & Civil Engineering for Roe Valley Integrated Primary School
quarry in Dungannon – and is focused on all aspects of the environment and biodiversity, working closely with the local authorities; monitoring current conditions, and implementing new equipment, technologies and resources to improve its rapport.
In recent times, it invested an additional £6 million in upgrades, focused on the sustainability and futureproofing of the plant.
Finalists
HIGH ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR
JOHNNY CONNOLLY COLE GROUNDWORK CONTRACTS
Based in Newry in County Down, Versaffix manufacture sells and services a range of tiltrotator products along with complementary product attachments. It offers great service to customers, right on their doorstep.
Catherine McQuillan - RSK Ireland
Johnny Connolly - Cole Groundwork Contracts
Enda Keenan - Crushing & Screening Services NI
Versaffix was set up by Gerard Doherty who saw the opportunities for tiltrotators in the ever-changing and evolving construction industry where owners, operators and project managers are looking for highly efficient and safe ways of utilising the most used machine on site, an excavator.
Gerard has taken his experience and research, and the proven concept of tiltrotators in the Nordic regions over the last 30 years, to develop the first tiltrotator to be manufactured in the UK and Ireland.
WINNER PARKER ANDERSON
From Holywood in County Down and from a farming background, Parker began his career in the industry almost 50 years ago when he joined the McCormick MacNaughton Caterpillar dealership as an apprentice fitter, eventually moving into a product support sales role in 1989, which he continued
to develop when Finning took over the franchise in 2010.
SPONSORS
Being very much a ‘people person,’ it is a role that he thoroughly enjoys, travelling across the whole of Northern Ireland, meeting, supplying and supporting Caterpillar customers with whom he has built up strong and enduring relationships and indeed friendships.
Well known and respected throughout the plant and machinery sector, he has a wealth of experience not just of the Caterpillar brand, but of the industry in general and is always keen to share that knowledge with younger colleagues, especially with those just starting out in their careers.
Parker may have reached retirement age and became
a proud grandfather just last year, but he has no immediate plans to call it a day just yet.
Outside of his work, the other love of his life is motor cycling. He attends many of the big racing events all over Ireland. It’s a pastime he shares with a couple of close friends who take to the road every weekend, regardless of the weather.
Today, it has a team of 80 people and is known within the industry for delivering quality projects, on time within budget. Cole is now involved in residential developments, commercial developments, schools and universities, electrical generation sites, telecommunications signals masts, and within the Water industry.
RAILWAY PLANT SERVICES NAMED PLANT HIRE COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Railway Plant Services Ltd, based in Gilford in County Armagh, has been voted Plant Hire Company of the Year at the annual 2024 Plant & Civil Engineer awards.
Established in 2008 by business partners
Kieran Fegan and Chris Feeney who have over 20 years’ experience on the Rail network across Great Britain, Railway Plant Services is a leading provider of plant hire within the Northern Ireland railway industry.
Delivering high quality, reliable and safe equipment, and readily adapting to the evolving needs of the railway industry,
RPS supports railway projects across the region with a fleet that includes machinery used in railway construction, maintenance, and repair and is tailored to meet the demands of the industry. Its commitment to excellence has cemented long-standing relationships with major railway contractors.
RPS understand that successful partnerships are built on trust and clear communication.
“Our dedicated team works closely with clients throughout the project lifecycle, providing ongoing support and ensuring all project objectives are met. This collaborative approach fosters strong working relationships and ensures repeat business.”
The company played a key role in the extensive works at the new Belfast Grand Central Station, supplying road rail
vehicles, machine attachments and an extensive team of trained operatives
The awards judges said the company had shown ‘exceptional dedication to quality, safety, and innovation.’ And they added: “Their commitment to rigorous safety standards, 24/7 customer support, and the adoption of advanced technology has set them apart as a true partner to their clients. They are worthy winners, with a strong focus on excellence and forward-thinking practices.”
Those sentiments have been echoed by many of the company’s customers who regard RPS as a partner rather than purely a supplier of equipment.
“We often require late requests for plant, usually at night and weekends and these requests are always met with an absolute willingness to deliver,” said one prominent client. “RPS is an organisation who have excellent knowledge, quality plant and most of all a fantastic customer service ethos.”
DSS WINS TOP AWARD AND PREPARES FOR GLOBAL EXPANSION
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Dynamic Screening Systems Ltd (DSS), based in County Donegal, has recently won a prestigious award for its innovative screening technology designed to handle challenging materials like micron powders, agglomerated soils, coal, recycled aggregates, and metals—materials that traditional machines cannot, or struggle to, process.
The company, founded by Martin Eves and Patrick O'Toole, was presented with the R&D Innovation Award at the annual Plant & Civil Engineering Awards, and was also a winner in the Waste Management Team of the Year category.
DSS developed the world’s first 10G Force screening machine in collaboration with renowned screen design engineer Ralph Naberg. The machine uses a patented 10G screening technology that applies 10 times the gravitational force in an energy-efficient manner. This allows DSS to effectively screen difficult materials that conventional machines, which operate at a typical 3G – 6G force, cannot handle. The 10G technology enables the screening of wet, sticky textured materials at cut sizes or volumes conventional screens simply cannot do. The unique design utilises synchronised shafts to distribute the forces evenly, preventing excessive vibration and minimizing maintenance issues. The 10G Force technology also supports multideck screening, enabling simultaneous separation of multiple streams for further processing according to customer specifications. Compared to traditional machines, DSS technology is three times more powerful, has a three times smaller footprint, and is three times more efficient.
Dynamic Screening Systems say they are thrilled to have just completed a project with another award winner, ReCon Resources, in which a semi-mobile screening plant was installed at their Portadown site for the processing of
various wastes such as gully waste, auto shredder waste and contaminated soil. ReCon, renowned for their forward thinking and implementation of new technology for best practice recovery for almost two decades, shared the Waste Management Team of the Year award with DSS.
EXCITING BREAKING NEWS
Meanwhile, it has been revealed that Moffett Investments has acquired a shareholding in Dynamic Screening Systems Ltd. The Moffett family have a long history of building cutting edge equipment through Combilift and Moffett Automation.
“This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey, and after years of in-depth testing and development of the 10G technology, DSS are now ready to expand and develop our business into a global brand,” said DSS.
“With Moffett’s support and expertise, we are poised to launch our tracked mobile machine by mid-2025 and bring our revolutionary technology to the global stage in an industry standard format. In this exciting new phase of growth, DSS will integrate within Combilift’s 46,500m2 state of the art factory which employs over 800 staff in Co Monaghan.
“This will centralise operations and further scale up production. Together, we will continue to drive cutting-edge technology, high performance and sustainability in the screening industry.”
The new generation of DSS machines is a revolutionary leap forward in both mobile and static screening technology and DSS is looking for global dealers/innovative partners around the world to be a part of that growth.
The company will be launching the product in mid-2025 and will exhibit at BAUMA (stand B2/217) in April. Stay tuned for more updates as DSS embark on its exciting next chapter.
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RMP HIRE’S RAPID GROWTH RECOGNISED AT AWARDS CEREMONY
Dublin-based RMP Hire, which celebrated its second year in business in May 2024, also had plenty to celebrate at the recent Plant & Civil Engineer magazine awards. The company, established by Ray Vaughan, featured in no less than four separate categories at the recent Plant & Civil Engineer magazine awards – winning the Excellence in Customer Service Award and being a finalist in the Top Team of the Year, and Plant Hire Company of the Year categories, while one of its team members, Colin Harbourne, was short-listed in the High Achiever of the Year category.
The past two years has been a period of rapid growth, with the launch of a new division in May
2023, Nationwide Access Hire, which specialises in powered access and offers a full range of working-at-height products, including boom platforms/lifts and cherry pickers, powered access platforms, scissor lifts, pusharound aerial work platforms, vertical platform lifts/mast booms, spider lifts and a range of safety-at-height accessories.
RMP Hire has also grown its portfolio of products. It now has over 80 powered access machines from a 10’ Pop Up to 60’ Booms, while a further 100 machines will be added in the next 12 months. It also has 20 excavators with another order placed, as well as a range of mini loaders, tracked dumpers and Hilti Power Tools.
“We are also planning to open a new repair centre early in the New Year and will be looking grow even further in 2025,” commented Ray. He added: “Currently we employ 3 full time mechanics, a delivery driver and to further boost our dedicated customer service, we haverecently advertised on another full-time apprentice plant fitter to service all of our equipment and are also offering service and repair for our customers’ own machines.”
With an eye on continued growth going forward, RMP will have a new Sales Director with a proven track record starting in the new year. Colin Harbourne, who was a finalist in the High Achiever category, is also an integral
part of the RMP team. Nothing is ever too much for Colin and he prides himself on going that extra mile to make sure customers are sorted and happy. Building the right team and culture is important to Ray. “We will do whatever we have to do to keep the customer satisfied,” he says. “We want to be a name that people can rely on. We will work with the customer and will always have a plan B. With so many hire companies in the industry it is hard to compete with the more established and national hire companies, but we treat everyone the same. No matter if you’re a one-man band or a national company our commitment to service will be the same.
“We are very fortunate that we have such loyal customers, customers that we now call friends. We can honestly say that a lot of our business comes from our own customer recommendations. I consider customer service to be the most important thing. Our customers know that if we say we will be on site for 7am it’s guaranteed.”
ECO
ECO Soil Improvers
ECO
ECO Lego Blocks
Sustainable
BS3882 Certified Engineered Topsoils
INNOVATION LEADS TO DOUBLE SUCCESS FOR RECON RESOURCES
County Armagh headquartered Recon Resources was a double winner at the recent annual Plant & Civil Engineer Awards, being praised for its innovative approach to waste management and sustainability.
The Portadown based company, which specialises in finding recycling and recovery solutions for waste streams that have traditionally been sent to landfill, was presented with both the Circular Economy Award, and the Waste Management Team of the Year award; it was also a finalist in a third category. This award winning company has evolved from a family
farming business to become one of the most progressive waste recycling companies in Ireland. The circular economy is at the core of everything it does. All of its recycled products are used in local construction products helping reduce the carbon footprint and increase the sustainability of the local economy.
ReCon was established by Daniel Connolly in 2011 to treat road sweeping and gully waste that was proving problematic for Councils to recycle. It has since expanded to treat other ‘difficultto-process’ waste materials, such as construction & demolition wastes, sludges from drinking water treatment and incinerated sewage sludge ash, with services
provided to a number of local authority, commercial and private customers throughout Ireland. Its expertise in the recovery of waste sludges and aggregates is extensive. It has invested heavily in various material handling and waste re- processing equipment, including washing, screening and bespoke separation technologies, from which it produces high-quality ‘endof-waste’ products, such as agricultural soils, sand and gravel. These are produced to Waste & Resource Action Programme Quality Protocols (WRAP QP).
IMPRESSIVE RECYCLING RATES
ReCon currently achieves an impressive, combined
recycling rate of >98% for all waste materials it accepts and processes on site. ReCon has also invested in developing its own in-house tooling and machining capability in order to produce bespoke processing equipment and its sector leading activities have won numerous awards for its contribution to innovation in recycling, sustainability and resource efficiency.
“Our activity to date has primarily focused on re-use/recycling, using separation and washing processes. Our future goal is to achieve a 100% recycling rate with 100% diversion from landfill and to fully exploit the untapped opportunity available to us i.e.to unlock the ‘uncaptured value’ within our waste streams.”
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NEW SCREENING TECHNOLOGY
It recently introduced a new electric powered screener developed by Dynamic Screening Solutions (DSS) Ltd. This screener uses patented 10G screening technology to create 10xG forces within the screening process in an energy efficient way.
This 10G technology, not previously deployed anywhere else in the UK, will provide the capability to screen wetter/ stickier textured waste materials that would otherwise be very difficult to process with conventional screening technology operating with a typically 3G force.
The technology also has a multiscreen deck configuration that will enable the simultaneous
screening and separation of waste streams into multiple fractions that will be beneficial for further processing of the wastes into End of Waste products.
“We are confident that the recent deployment of the DSS screening technology will demonstrate the potential capability to effectively meet all of Recon’s screening requirements in a single step process powered exclusively by electricity sourced from renewable energy sources.
“We are also confident that this electric screening technology will deliver a cleaner recycled intermediate product with which we can go on to manufacture clean green high quality sustainable products in keeping with the ethos of the Circular Economy.”
NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
The completion of this fuel switching deployment project will facilitate potential access to new business opportunities that will enable ReCon to diversify its operations and facilitate the manufacture of more carbon reduced End of Waste products from waste derived resources fulfilling its circular economy pledge, and as a result will increase the company’s revenue, while providing more local jobs.
The key purpose of introducing this new technology is to transition its material screening process from Diesel Hydraulic operation to fully electric. ReCon had identified the material screening processes as a significant contributor (39.45%) to
the overall carbon impact of the business. The ability to produce quality, intermediary recycled resources will deliver an increase in production capability for ReCon's range of End of Waste products.
The new equipment will be powered predominantly by 150kW of solar power, installed on site in 2022; this investment in Solar PV is complimentary to the overall aims and objectives of the business with regards fuel switching and decarbonisation. The availability of on-site renewable energy generation will be augmented by grid supplied electricity sourced from 3T Power that guarantees 100% of their electricity supply from renewable sources.
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KILWAUGHTER MINERALS CONTINUES AWARD-WINNING RUN WITH DOUBLE SUCCESS
Leading quarry and minerals processor Kilwaughter Minerals has continued its award-winning run with a double success at the recent Plant & Civil Engineer awards.
The company was named Mineral Products Site of the Year at the annual Plant & Civil Engineer Awards, with Edward Nethery receiving the Quarry Manager of the Year accolade.
These accolades follow Kilwaughter Minerals’ K Systems brand being honoured at the 2024 INCA Awards for Environmental Impact, receiving the award for the Low Rise (New Build) category for its innovative Curries Yard project.
Kilwaughter’s commitment to sustainability has also enabled the company to gain Gold status in Business in the Community’s environmental benchmarking survey, earning a Level 3 distinction for wellbeing.
Gary Wilmot, Managing Director at Kilwaughter Minerals, commented:
“These awards reflect the exceptional standards Kilwaughter consistently delivers across all areas of our business.
“From pioneering solutions in the construction sector to prioritising environmental responsibility, our team exemplifies excellence.”
With a career spanning over 40 years, Edward’s leadership, commitment to safety, and passion for mentorship were praised by judges, who described him as a champion of best practices and innovation in the quarrying industry.
Speaking following the Plant & Civil Engineer awards event, Edward said:“I am thrilled to have been named Quarry Manager of the Year, and it is a privilege to be acknowledged by the industry I have dedicated my career to.
“This award reflects the hard work of the entire Kilwaughter team, whose
commitment to safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship makes our success possible. I look forward to continuing to contribute to this dynamic industry.”
Meanwhile, the achievements of Senior Digital Marketing Executive Kathryn Douglas were also recognised at the Construction Marketing Awards as she was named winner of the ‘Emerging Talent –Young Marketer of the Year’ category.
“We are particularly proud of Edward and Kathryn’s achievements, as their outstanding commitment embodies the values that drive Kilwaughter forward and we look forward to continued success,” says MD Gary Wilmot.
Established in 1939, Kilwaughter Minerals is recognised as a leader within the industry, with manufacturing operations covering over 100 acres, four distribution centres, and three market-leading brands: K Rend, K Systems, and Kilwaughter Lime.
LOWRY BUILDING & CIVIL ENGINEERING WINS SECOND CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARD
Lowry Building & Civil Engineering was once again one of the big winners at the 2024 Plant & Civil Engineer awards, being presented with the ‘Construction Project of the Year’ award for the second year in succession. It was for their work on Londonderry’s Altnagelvin Hospital Tower Restaurant Refurbishment. The new restaurant, appropriately named ‘Crossroads’, is located on the ground floor at the heart of the Hospital, where South Wing, North Wing, the Cancer Centre and Tower Block intersects. It replaces the restaurant on level
one of the tower block which had been open for 63 years.
The awards judges noted that the project, delivered on time and on budget, often required Lowry Building & Civil Engineering contractors to schedule work to take place at night and at weekends to ensure minimal disruption on what was an extremely confined and challenging site. They also observed that this crucial refurbishment of part of the existing tower and new build extensions together with essential fire safety works and alterations to the engineering
services located in a vital piece of healthcare infrastructure was delivered meticulously by Lowry Building & Civil Engineering, while allowing the surrounding wards, theatres & clinical areas to remain ‘live’ and operational throughout the construction programme.
Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd has a long-established history stretching back to 1961 when the company was originally founded in Castlederg, County Tyrone. Since then the company has grown steadily to become one of the leading medium sized contractors in Northern Ireland. Today, it operates from modern offices in the centre of Castlederg
and employ a team of over 100 that has experience across many key trades. The company also operate a large, modern, fully equipped plant fleet which covers all needs and further strengthens its capability to fulfill the most demanding of projects. The company won the same category in 2023 for developing an innovative mobile Pilot Plant to test myriad water treatment options so that the most effective and efficient treatment solution could be executed at the Derg Water Treatment Works and future NI Water capital works programmes.
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MORROW CONTRACTS
Belfast-based Morrow Contracts, a leading utilities and civil engineering firm in Northern Ireland, Ireland and GB, has been recognised for its exceptional dedication to workplace safety. The company recently received the prestigious Health & Safety Award at the annual Plant & Civil Engineer Awards. With a rich history spanning over 40 years, Morrow Contracts has established a strong reputation for delivering top-tier engineering solutions to the utility sector. The company's commitment to safety extends to all aspects of its operations, from design and construction to maintenance.
A CULTURE OF SAFETY
Morrow Contracts prioritises the well-being of its employees, clients, and the public. By implementing robust health and safety protocols, the company has created a safer
and healthier work environment. This proactive approach has led to significant improvements in job satisfaction, productivity, and employee retention.
RESPONDING TO CHALLENGES
The company's unwavering commitment to safety has been particularly evident during challenging times. Morrow Contracts has consistently demonstrated its ability to respond effectively to severe weather incidents, including freeze / thaws, storms, droughts, and floods, often working around the clock to restore essential services in extreme conditions. These incidents by their very nature require robust safe systems of working to protect staff, whilst ensuring that the most vulnerable in society have access to critical services during thesedifficult times.
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Morrow Contracts' dedication to safety and quality has been recognised with numerous other awards, including the prestigious NIRAUC (Northern Ireland Road Authority and Utility Committees) Best Streetworks Contractor award and accolades from the British Safety Council and RoSPA. This recognition underscores the company's position as a leader in the utilities and civil engineering industry. By prioritising safety, Morrow Contracts continues to set a high standard for the industry and ensure a sustainable future for its business and the communities it serves.
IPS IRELAND WINS ‘TOP TEAM OF YEAR’ AWARD FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE & SUPPORT
The team at IPS Ireland have been voted 2024’s ‘Top Team of the Year’ at the recent annual Plant & Civil Engineer Awards. An independent fully Irish owned company and a leading Irish supplier for powered access parts, service, workshop supplies and construction plant spares, IPS was established in 2013, and is based on the east coast of Ireland.
According to this year judging panel, “IPS Ireland stood out to us with their dedication to providing exceptional customer service, driven by a focused team of individuals with drive to provide the highest standard of service. Their remarkable growth and expansion of was highlighted throughout their entry, making the independently owned company a clear winner in the category.”
And commented IPS Ireland’s General Manager, Trevor Lambe: “It’s an honour to be presented with the Top Team of the Year Award at the Plant & Civil Engineer Ceremony. It's a real recognition of our team's commitment and the passion for the work we do.
“This award doesn't just make us proud, it gives us a sense of meaning in our work, our motivation comes from each
other and drives us to be the best each and every day. IPS Ireland is a business where customer service is at the heart of everything we do.
“The dedication and diligence of our team sets us apart, and we always aim to deliver nothing but exceptional service for our valued customers and suppliers. This award makes us truly proud of our identity and the work we do.”
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ALWAYS READY
IPS operates around the clock, ready to address any issues or emergencies that may arise outside of regular business hours.
The team’s willingness to deliver parts during emergencies is a testament to its commitment, a service not typically offered by online vendors.
“Our qualified personnel across various departments extend their expertise through advice and technical support. We even dispatch engineers for on-site installation of ordered parts.
The diligence of our team in choosing the right parts and restoring machine function demonstrates our dedication to customer service. We also offer competitive pricing and part sourcing, all the while maintaining speed and accuracy.
Our bespoke pricing plans are designed to accommodate various budgetary needs.”
The company has come a long way from 2013 when it started off with one staff member operating out of a shared rented office space on a drop shipment basis, and over the
years it has built a network of customers and suppliers.
It operate in a state-of-theart facility centrally located in Dundalk, stocking a vast inventory of parts, enabling it to provide a nationwide service throughout Ireland, supplying and installing parts for any make or model of access or plant equipment, including but not limited to Genie, Hinowa, Snorkel, JLG, Yanmar, JCB, and many more.
DEALERSHIPS
IPS is also the exclusive Irish distributor for numerous top-tier brands within the industry and has, for example, established strong partnerships with UK based SafeMewp Safety Attachments, Aresta Safety Products, and The Crane Pad Shop.
SafeMEWP engineer and design a range of universal lifting attachments for powered access machines including the fast selling pipe packs and board carriers that help maximise safe productivity while operating Powered Access & Material Handling equipment.
The Crane Pad Shop provides high-grade crane pads, spreader plates, and ground mats, specifically crafted to guarantee stability and safety for all your heavy lifting requirements.
These resilient and dependable pads are designed for utilisation at any construction site, compatible with heavy plant machinery, cranes, and access platforms. Their products ensure optimal performance and enhanced safety during operations.
Xenith Height is a company dedicated to the design, production and supply of fall arrest equipment and safety harnesses, aimed at tasks involving work at height.
Their ArestaSafety line is specifically designed to offer technical solutions that safeguard workers from potential falls and other associated risks when performing tasks at elevated levels.
WORKSHOP SUPPLY STANDS
IPS also supply and install stands and shelving for workshops or
mobile service vans. Its stands are supplied with a collection of parts and workshop essentials which can be tailored for specific machines depending on the fleet.
“We complete weekly or monthly stock checks for our customers and replenish any stock that has been used, with frequent reviews to update the inventory of stock as requested. The service was set up to take the hassle out of workshop management for our customers and ensures they have what they need to keep operation running avoiding waiting for parts to be delivered.”
EXTENSIVE INVENTORY OF PARTS
IPS’s comprehensive inventory boasts over 10,000 parts, allowing it to assure swift delivery times coupled with highly competitive pricing. By choosing IPS Ireland as your provider, equipment downtime is significantly reduced. Regardless of the specific part you require or the time frame in which it is needed, rest assured that if it is not already in IPS’s warehouse, the team will go the extra mile to get it for its customers.
L-R: Clodagh McCrory, Gary Power, Trevor Lambe (IPS Ireland) and Martin Graham (Award Sponsor Innovate).
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Winner: Alan Featherstone.
Winner: Andrew McIntosh.
Winner: Michaela Cuddy.
winner: Johnny Connelly.
winner: Darragh McConville.
Winner: Dale Huxley.
Winner: Thomas Coulter.
Winner: Daniel McAvoy.
Winner: Victoria Coulter.
Winner: Mark McConkey.
Adrian Logan.
Winner: Mark Gilliland.
Winner: Oliver Close.
Winner: Bryce Mortland.
Auction Winner: Niamh Fagan and Golda Burrows.
KOMATSU NEW YEAR NEWCOMERS FROM McHALE PLANT SALES
Two important New Year newcomers from Komatsu distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales will be the latest Dash-11 generation WA47511 and WA485-11 wheel loaders, details of which have just been announced.
Already an established favourite amongst quarry owners, aggregates producers, and those working in a variety of applications that include timber, waste, grain, and fertiliser handling, both newcomers come on the market equipped with a variety of upgrades, with a major focus on fuel efficiency.
Biggest improvement in terms of fuel saving is a 29% reduction in the WA485-11c compared with its WA480-8 predecessor. Another doubledigit reduction is the WA475-11’s 14% better figure compared to its Dash-10 predecessor.
Ahead of their arrival – supported by a dedicated demonstration programme – McHale Plant Sales’ director, Denis McGrath says: “replacing two highlysuccessful units proven in numerous Irish applications, both
new models are characterised by better consumption and by an equally-important high torque in the low speed range.
“Equipped with Komatsu’s own hydro-mechanical transmission, both machines are said to
deliver a superior performance with power reserves and ease of operation in all transport and loading tasks,” McGrath said.
“Compared with its WA480-8 predecessor, the WA485-11 offers a significant upgrade in payload and bucket capacity. All components have been adapted to a permanent payload of 8,800kg, a level extendable to 9,300kg in an aggregates-handling variant which helps reduce the number of loading cycles required depending on the vehicle size.
“A constant variable gear ratio ensures the engine stays in a highly efficient fuel zone, with variable speed control that makes it possible to adapt the machine’s maximum speed to the requirements of the job site. Adjustable variable traction control limits wheel spin in difficult ground conditions,” McGrath adds.
On the sustainability front, both models have EU Stage V compliant advanced emissions control. Features of note include Komatsu’s well-proven exhaust with diesel particulate filter and selective catalyst reduction that further reduces NOx emissions using AdBlue. With low-emission combustion, this means their diesel particulate filter needs replacement only every 8,000h –an interval that can be extended by using low-ash engine oil.
IMPRESSIVE LIFTING SPEED
In the matter of lifting power, Komatsu notes that ‘never before has it been easier for an operator to find the correct balance between traction and lifting power.’
Impressive lifting speed and classleading machine stability help to increase productivity, especially in tight V-shaped loading applications. Contributing to this improvement is ‘variable power control’ which allows lifting speed to be controlled independently of the accelerator pedal. In addition, hydraulic response time and tipping or lifting speed can be adjusted to application requirements. In addition, the optimised Z-bar linkage offers up to 20% more lifting power and a higher tonnes/h production rate.
Conscious of the importance that Irish owners attach to ‘operator comfort’, McHale Plant Sales cites a number of changes that raise the bar in that respect. “One highlighted improvement is a
new, spacious cab with generous all-round glazing, a heated rear window angled to prevent dirt from sticking, and an operatorfriendly lower noise level.
‘A lever console with new command control switch is adjustable on a five-way axis for each operator, while increased internal air pressure prevents dust particles from entering the cab. A rear-hinged door, angled steps, and large handrails facilitate easy and safe entry and exit,’ the company notes.
A new air-suspended seat dampens vibrations for a
more comfortable driving experience, as do seat-mounted electronic control levers that improve operating comfort and reduce operator fatigue. Automatic bucket filling and other assistance functions help operators to maintain productivity even during long shifts.
Amongst many other advances found in both models are: a high-resolution machine measurements information system; data on AdBlue levels and fuel consumption; real time ECO control system that displays messages during
operation and at switchoff; constant steering angle feedback; easier engine access for cleaning and maintenance; and a programmable enginemanagement system that automatically switches the engine off when idling or after running to cool down.
As on all Komatsu equipment, KOMTRAX telematics and Komatsu Care customer maintenance provisions provide fleet management and support, protect the machine from misuse, and ensuring maximum efficiency and uptime. www.mchaleplantsales.com
Dromad Hire Demonstrate Community Spirit
Dromad Hire recently supported the Dundalk Chamber Pick & Pace School Mentorship Programme.
In collaboration with Dundalk Chamber and Staffline, it provided 120 branded hi-viz vests for the Pick and Pace Campaign. This initiative encourages secondary school students to participate in weekly litter picking, promoting
environmental awareness and helping maintain the school surroundings.
The initiative launched with students in O’Fiaich College and Colaiste Ris, with Dromad Hire’s Elaine Rice representing the award-winning company on the day, presenting the sponsored hi-viz vests to the schools involved.
The De La Salle Secondary school joined the programme shortly after the launch,
with many more schools in the area signing up to get their pupils involved.
According to Marcos Simpson, Dromad Hire’s Finance Director, “We are honoured to partner with the Dundalk Chamber ‘Pick & Pace’ initiative, where schools commit to regular litter picks to promote an eco-friendly Dundalk.
“Supporting local initiatives is integral to our business, fostering environmental education, outdoor activities, and school pride among the youth. Special thanks to Jennifer Grey of Staffline for her leadership in this programme.”
Sunbelt Rentals UK and Ireland achieves silver membership from the 5% club
Sunbelt Rentals UK and Ireland has secured silver membership in the 5% Club’s Employer Audit for the years 2024- 2025.
This award highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to their 4,000+ employees all over the country by creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive by investing in opportunities for all.
The 5% Club’s Employer Audit is an annual benchmarking programme that honours UK employers who excel in supporting apprentices, graduates and degree placement students. By attaining the silver membership, Sunbelt Rentals reinforces its position as a leader in the Hire industry committed to sustainable workforce practices.
As part of the membership, Sunbelt Rentals is committed to increasing the number of apprentices, graduates and students engaged in formal training programmes. This initiative is not a standalone effort, it’s part of a larger moment, as the collective members of the 5% club support 1.9 million employees, with over 108,000 individuals participating in earn and learn schemes.
Sunbelt Rentals currently employees more than 220 people undertaking 32 different apprenticeship programmes. These teammates are engaged in early career apprenticeships alongside existing employees who are upskilling in their roles and recently recruited graduates. These programmes range in complexity from level 2 up to level 7, reflecting the company’s commitment to offering formal upskilling opportunities for all employees. They partner with training providers across the UK and Ireland to deliver a diverse range of programmes
that cater to different career interests and aspirations. These include programmes such as their Women in Leadership apprenticeship, senior leadership development programme through to Mechatronics and Engineering technician specialist apprenticeships.
Practical Skills
Each of these apprenticeships are designed to equip teammates with the practical and academic skills they need at every stage of their career within the company. Through these initiatives, Sunbelt Rentals is not only investing in the professional development of its
employees but also contributing to the broader goal of creating a skilled and capable workforce.
Julie Harpley, Sunbelt Rentals Early Careers & Social Impact Academy Manager, said: “We’re extremely proud to have received the Silver Membership from The 5% Club. This builds on our bronze membership, that we proudly held for several years and showcases our commitment to investing in our people through structured educational pathways. We know the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, and our membership signifies our ongoing efforts to promote apprenticeships and training opportunities for everyone.”
Jenny Parry, Head of Talent at Sunbelt Rentals, added: “This recognition is a testament to the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals in the industries we operate in, while ensuring our people have the skills needed to succeed in today’s job market. I am extremely proud of the team for their work which has made it possible for Sunbelt Rentals to receive this membership”.
SAFETY FOR EXCAVATIONS AND TEMPORARY SITE WORKS
Plant and Civil Engineer talked to Chris Gearren from Groundforce Ireland, resulting in a fascinating insight into the importance of training for excavations and temporary works. With the projected growth in the construction sector for the coming years, first we asked him what steps can the Irish construction industry take to drive down fatalities on site, and improve safety around working in excavations?
He suggested there are three vital steps:
1) Acknowledge that nearly all deaths are avoidable with proper planning. 2) Before tasks begin, actively and together map out the hazards – crucially finding ways (risk assess) in order to lower the risks to everyone on-site.
3) Understand it’s OK to stop and ask for help when things don’t seem right. Asking for and seeking more information, supervision, training, knowledge and help must be seen as a strength instead of a weakness if the industry is to reduce the trend of the increasing loss of life within construction. Are groundworks activities, and excavation work in particular, part of the dynamic?
Absolutely, the HSA says the most common trigger for construction-related fatalities in the period 2016 to 2020 was falls from height, which accounted for 24 out of 49 fatalities (49%). Other significant triggers of construction-related fatalities included loss of control of vehicles, collapsing excavations and falling objects. Uniquely, groundwork activities that involve an excavation can easily create a variety of challenges and potential dangers that are not limited to just Working at Height but also below ground or the excavation itself (where there is a risk of collapse).
So, what are some of the general hazards when working in and around excavations?
Some of the most common ones include:
• Interfacing with plant and machinery
• Confined spaces including fumes, access and egress, and rescue
• Working at height
• Dealing with water
• Changing ground and weather conditions
• Adjacent structures
• Underground services
• Deviation from temporary works design
• Surcharges
• Vibration of plant equipment
• Position of spoil
• Poor installation of shoring
With these hazards, and many more to consider when working in and around excavations, are more companies in Ireland seeking out more information and help?
Groundforce has certainly seen a lot more contractors utilising temporary works equipment (protective measures). Additionally, those seeking a standard temporary works design through our online platform YourSolution has increased dramatically as people become aware of the better safety standards achieved with a design in place. With the recent introduction of Groundforce Safety in Ireland, there has been a large uptake in companies hiring Davit Arm Systems for excavation rescue, for example. This is evidence of increasing awareness and positivity towards safety. What else is needed for lasting change and improvement?
The best measure for culture change is, without a doubt, investment in accredited safety training, in this case, excavation training. When companies start to fully understand that the most dangerous tasks carried out on-site are groundworks activities, which require shoring (temporary works), then proper excavation safety training becomes a huge focus.
Why should Irish contractors invest in excavation training?
Beyond the typical argument for training, such as increased knowledge, better employee morale, and increased accountability of staff, there are some additional and interesting benefits of training people to install, inspect and remove shoring systems. For example, those who have a better understanding of the range of protection measures (shoring) and how they operate can feedback to their procurement departments and ask for the right equipment for the job. This knowledge can actually reduce costs and the amount of equipment on hire. There is an old myth within the sector that utilising shoring can slow down a job, but when trained on carrying out work with shoring, contractors have an actual
Chris Gearren.
understanding that completing tasks safely does not mean a reduction in productivity. A lot of individuals working in and around excavations have a lot of experience with no recognised qualifications for the work they do. Business owners and managers assume they are doing everything correctly and they are the experts. However, no matter how experienced candidates are, they learn and expand their knowledge on our excavation courses. Can you share any success stories or examples of how Groundforce Training has helped companies improve their excavation safety practices?
Examples include training 100 site managers from a Tier 1 utilities contractor who subcontracts groundworks activities and excavation work. The reason this company invested in excavation training is because they felt strongly that without being trained themselves, and possessing an in-depth understanding of the topic, they would be unable to properly oversee groundworks projects. By obtaining excavation safety qualifications, the site managers have been better able to collaborate with their groundworks supply chain to understand their unique challenges, challenge unsafe acts, and overall minimise the risks associated with excavations on their sites.
Also, training 40 operatives from a civil engineering contractor, following on from an accident that occurred whilst carrying out excavation work. The director of the company correctly identified how dangerous this activity was for their staff. Thus, industry-recognised excavation training was selected with Groundforce. This training included the installation, inspection and removal of shoring systems. Whilst many of the individuals had been involved in these activities for 20+ years, they were pleasantly surprised to come away from the courses with additional learning they could implement straight away back out on site to reduce the likelihood of harm.
www.vpgroundforce.ie
recycling & waste management
Kiverco Delivers Multi-Million Pound Plant for Westminster Waste
Northern Ireland-based
Kiverco has successfully completed its recycling plant installation for Westminster Waste, a prominent waste management company based in London.
This waste solution is one of the largest of its kind in the South East of England, designed to process three distinct waste streams: Construction and Demolition Waste (C&D), Commercial and Industrial Waste (C&I), and wood. This multi-millionpound investment represents a major milestone for both companies, further strengthening their strong partnership.
This is the third time Westminster Waste has chosen Kiverco as their preferred supplier, and it underscores the trust and confidence they have in Kiverco’s expertise, innovation, and quality of service. The collaboration between the two companies dates back to 2017 when Kiverco initially supported the upgrade of Westminster’s existing plant. Impressed by the durability and reliability of Kiverco’s machinery and the exceptional aftercare service, Westminster Waste decided to turn to Kiverco when planning the relocation of its business.
Westminster Waste visited various key recycling facilities within the UK, where they witnessed first-hand the efficiency and effectiveness of Kiverco’s waste separation machinery.
Westminster’s objective was to divert 100% of waste from landfill while enhancing throughput and the purity of its waste. To achieve this, the company was keen to increase the efficiency of the waste separation process through automation, reducing dependency on manual labour.
Kiverco’s technical team invested time from the outset of the project to fully understand Westminster’s objectives. Working extensively with Westminster Waste in conjunction with 3rd party technology partners, Kiverco has developed a solution that will deliver outstanding results for Westminster’s very busy site in the heart of London.
The Kiverco plant is designed to manage the high bulk density synonymous with construction and demolition waste - a challenge widely acknowledged
in the waste management sector. With a processing capacity of up to 60 tonnes per hour, and incorporating some of the best automation technology available, the plant showcases exactly what is possible when two companies strive for excellence and sets the standard for the future of C&D separation in the future.
Huge Support
Dominic Moule, Managing Director, stated: “This is a huge investment for Westminster Waste, so it was important to work with a highly reputable company who knows what they are doing to deliver our newest facility. Kiverco has been a huge support to us over many years and we are delighted that they have once again designed and delivered an excellent solution to support our company’s future growth.”
Speaking about the project, Sales Manager JP Devlin said: “We are incredibly proud to have partnered with Westminster Waste on this exciting project. The successful delivery of a more automated plant for Westminster Waste demonstrates Kiverco’s commitment to providing innovative solutions and our dedication to meeting and exceeding our clients’ expectations. We build recycling plant that’s built to last and keeps your business running. All day, every day.
“We are confident that this plant will play a pivotal role in helping Westminster Waste achieve high levels of purity to meet their sustainability goals, diverting more waste from landfill than ever before. The Kiverco team extends its gratitude to Westminster Waste for their trust and partnership in this endeavour, and we look forward to continuing to support their waste management initiatives in the years to come.”
Kiverco, based in Dungannon, Northern Ireland, is a trusted leader in the design and manufacturing of recycling plant solutions. With a focus on building lasting relationships with customers, Kiverco designs and delivers bespoke solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs. The company is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and for providing cutting-edge recycling equipment.
recycling & waste management
Vyta Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Future with Launch of New Report
Vyta, a leading specialist in secure IT Asset Disposition and Lifecycle Management (ITAD and ITALM), with sites across Ireland and Great Britain, has reaffirmed its commitment to a more environmentally friendly future by announcing the publication of its FY2023/24 Sustainability Report.
The report highlights Vyta’sESG credentials across all aspects of its operations and outlines its commitment to minimisingits environmental impact, promoting ethical practices, supporting clients in achieving their sustainability goals, prioritising the wellbeing of employees, and fostering thriving communities.
The new report details how, as part of its services, Vyta provides clients with ITAD Carbon Avoidance Reports, measuring the carbon dioxide (CO2) avoided by extending the life of IT equipment rather than manufacturing new devices.
Throughout the reporting period, Vyta collected, recycled and processed over 738,000 devices, preventing the release of almost 16,300 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
The Sustainability Report also references how the company has achieved numerous environmental accreditations, with all Vyta facilities holding the most recent version of the R2 Responsible Recycling standard and verified ascarbon neutral under the prestigious PAS 2060 certification.
Vyta’s Dublin site iscurrently powered by 100% renewable energy, and the business
has ambitious plans to adopt renewable energy across its remaining three sites.
Compliant Solutions
Philip McMichael, Founder and CEO atVyta commented:“Sustainability is at the core of everything we do at Vyta. Our mission is to make it easier for organisations to deliver a positive impact at every stage of their IT lifecycle by providing secure, sustainable, and compliant solutions.
“We believe that IT asset dispositioncan be a powerful tool in the fight against climate change by supporting the circular economy and reducing the demand for new device manufacturing.
“Our Sustainability Report showcases our progress and reaffirms our commitment to transparency and measurement. However, we recognise that sustainability is a journey ofcontinuous improvement. In the coming years, we hope to build on our success, and make significant strides towards achieving net-zero by 2050.”
Key Player
Founded in 2001, Vyta has become a key player in the circular economy, employing over 120 people across multiple sites in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain.
The company has received notable recognition for its leadership in sustainability, achieving numerous accolades, including the Women in Tech Green Impact Award and the Business In The Community NI Sustainable Product/Service of the Year Award.
Vyta is alsoone of only two Northern Ireland businessesto be awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Sustainable Development in 2024.
The businesscompleted its first EcoVadis assessment in 2024, placing it in the top 35% of companies evaluated worldwide.
Looking ahead, Vytais committed to furthering its sustainability efforts by expanding its Scope 3 reporting, and by reporting to both the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) in the coming year, enhancing transparency and accountability across all operations.
Focus on recycling policy urgently needed, says ACE Ireland
Increasing collection and recycling rates of all recyclable materials including beverage cartons must form a key focus under Circular Economy in Ireland’s next Programme for Government, says the Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment – ACE Ireland.
Following Ireland’s General Election, it has urged those newly elected politicians to drive investment in critical recycling and waste management infrastructure. It strongly argues this must be a core focus in the next Programme for Government if Ireland is serious about delivering on its circular economy ambitions.
In its manifesto shared with political parties, ACE Ireland has outlined its vision for increasing collection and recycling rates for all recyclable materials placed on the Irish market,
including beverage cartons.
ACE Ireland argues targeted investment in Ireland materials recovery facilities (MRFs) is key to delivering this to ensure recyclable materials collected at kerbside are correctly sorted for full onward recycling.
Other key asks include the need to:
• Increase public awareness of packaging materials that should be placed in the mixed dry recycling bin to increase overall collection and recycling rates.
• Collate and publish more detailed data on the collection and recycling of specific material formats to allow industry to monitor performance and adapt accordingly.
• Champion national recycling infrastructure that supports recyclable materials like
beverage cartons to fully play their role in Ireland’s circular economy.
ACE Ireland Chief Executive, Mandy Kelly said: “Ireland has made significant strides in recent years in driving its circular economy ambitions, grounded through focused and targeted policy mechanisms. Disappointingly however, it appears that the circular economy and recycling have dropped down the priority list for all political parties in this election campaign.
“It’s imperative that the next Programme for Government ensures that all recyclables, including beverage cartons, placed on the Irish market can be fully recycled to allow resources to continue to circulate within the economy. As an association ACE Ireland is focused on improving recycling processes and increasing recycling rates
of beverage cartons and we look forward to working collaboratively with members of the next Oireachtas to ensure policy support the same.
“Beverage cartons are a circular, renewable and recyclable food packaging solution. However, to maximise their potential in Ireland’s circular economy and to meet EU collection and recycling targets, a greater political focus needs to be placed on ensuring infrastructure and sorting targets are developed”, Ms Kelly concluded.
ACE Ireland represents Tetra Pak, Elopak and SIG Combibloc, the leading manufacturers of beverage cartons for the Irish and European markets. For more information about the Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment – ACE Ireland visit: www.ace-ireland.ie
(L-R) Josh Brown, Service Delivery Coordinator, Rachael Weir, Head of Marketing, Faye Thomas, CCO and Philip McMichael, CEO.
New Yanmar SV08 delivered to Seskinore Poultry from Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Takeuchi TB230 delivered to Shane and Jack Darcy of Darcy Constructions in Omagh by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Moycullen Plant and Tool Collecting from Sleator Plant.
New DX235LCR-7 Sold to McCartney Contracts by Northern Excavators.
New Dieci Mini Agri vered to Muckross House in Killarney by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
A new Develon DX63-7, for Whan Plant Hire, from Ballyward Plant Services.
New Yanmar SV08 supplied to Garden Room Sales from Crumlin Plant Sales.
A new Giant GT5048 for T&C McCarthy, from Ballyward Plant services.
A new Develon DX63-7 & Engcon EC206bs for R Hopper, from Ballyward Plant Services. 3no Yanmar C30 swivel dumpers and 1no. Yanmar C50 dumper supplied to CP Hire By Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Develon Dx140Lcr -7 sold to Sammy Mellon by Northern Excavators.
Trevor Heatrick picking up a new RoRo Container from MT Waste.
New Takeuchi TB216 delivered to Robin Hill Construction in Carrickfergus by AlanMilne Tractors Newry.
A new Giant G2700tele HD+ for Mill Contracts, from Ballyward Plant Services.
New Bobcat T86 Track Loader delivered to Gradewell Plant Hire by Northern Excavators.
New Takeuchi TB230 delivered to Conda Services in Dungannon by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
New Rioned Flexjet supplied to LA steel from Crumlin Plant Sales.
Gortlee Hire lifting a New Yanmar VIO80 from Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Rotair MDVN26 compressor delivered to Gortlee Hire from Crumlin Plant Sales.
Three New Bobcat Mini Excavators sold to Dial a Digger Hire by Northern Excavators.
An Immaculate second hand Dieci 38.10 recently deliverd to Benone Caravan Park in Limavady by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
A new Giant G2700tele HD+ for P McCormack, from Ballyward Plant services.
Galloway Steel fabrication in Downpatrick by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
P J Piling Contracts Ltd SY35U from Sleator Plant.
New Bobcat E55z Delivered to Florida Developments by Northern Excavators.
Loughran Rock Industries RA30 from Sleator Plant.
S45XC Boom for Tim Lyons in Co Cork from Sleator Plant.
A new Dieci Pegasus 50.25 and a new Dieci Zeus 40.13 delivered to S&E Contarcts in Warrenpoint by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
New Yanmar VIO57 delivered to SMK contracts by Crumlin Plant Sales.
AG Wilson collecting their SY75C from Sleator Plant.
New Yanmar C50 track dumper supplied to Errigal Rentals from Crumlin Plant Sales.
McGowan Tree
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New Messersi TC50 supplied to Monaghan Hire from Crumlin Plant Sales.
