Specify February 2016

NORTHERN IRELAND’S No.1 CONSTRUCTION MAGAZINE SPECIFY is the official publication for the Construction Employers Federation

february 2016

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PAT BURNS Editor SIOBHAN McGUINNESS Sales Manager

Leader in Construction

HELEN WRIGHT Art Editor STUART GRAY Production Manager SUBSCRIPTIONS: (UK £18.00 Outside UK £27.50) PUBLISHERS: James & Gladys Greer

Specify is published by Greer Publications, 5B Edgewater Business Park, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, BT3 9JQ Tel: (028) 9078 3200 Fax: (028) 9078 3210 Email: Sales siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

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A

ccording to leadership expert John C Maxwell, ‘a leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.’

This quote was used by Barry Nielsen of the Construction Industry Training Board at the launch of the new Leader in Construction initiative.

Now more than ever the construction industry in Northern Ireland is facing many challenges and needs leaders who are able to navigate through complex environments, lead their organisation to new markets, products and services and who can deliver results.

Having a pipeline of leadership talent is critical to ensuring that businesses are sustainable no matter what the size. So whether you want to elevate your company to the next level or simply secure its future and you have a candidate with the right potential then the Leader in

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Construction programme is ideal.

This will help nurture and support the skills your people need to succeed. Coaching and practical workshops using construction specific examples will develop innovative, results-driven inspiring leaders. A visit to the Leuven Institute in Brussels will help broaden their outlook expand their network of contacts and help develop relationships both locally and on an European level.

The launch of this programme is timely as more and more local construction companies concentrate on developing their business outside Northern Ireland. Nearly half of all work being done by local building firms is now outside of Northern Ireland, according to the latest RICS and Tughans Construction Market Survey.

The lack of a significant recovery in construction activity within Northern Ireland has seen many local companies seeking work in Great

Britain in particular. According to the RICS, investing in infrastructure is a crucial part of rebalancing and growing the economy. We need better roads and railways, schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure to meet our sustainable energy needs.

A lot of our existing infrastructure is aging and in need of replacement, and the RICS strongly encourages the policy makers to take a strategic view in relation to where best public money should be spent to make the most positive impact for the economy and society.

Barry Nielsen and his team at the CITB are to be congratulated for their work in developing and promoting the Leader in Construction scheme and Specify Magazine is delighted to be one of the programme’s sponsors. We will be covering the initiative as it develops and talking to the candidates throughout the year. We wish them all good luck.

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FEBRUARY 2016

contents...

6 DIGEST Gilbert-Ash completes the renovation of the Crown Bar and Windell wins a Small Business Award.s

7 DIGEST

Bangor Wastewater treatment gets a special green award while Marcon starts work on the Seamus Heaney centre in Bellaghy.

12 WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

Training schemes for more than 500 participants are to be created in the next three years thanks to a new programme developed by training agency WOMEN’STEC and Clanmil Housing Group.

16

DAVID JAMESON ROOFING SERVICES:

The Portadown based roofing and asbestos removal company celebrates 30 years in business.

30 FOLD HOUSING: Anita Conway, director of development at Fold Housing Association, talks to Specify about the innovative ‘Land, Design and Build’ initiative the organisation has been successfully pioneering in Northern Ireland.

34 LEADER IN CONSTRUCTION:

The CITB launch their new initiative to create a new generation of leaders in the NI building industry.

36 40

EXPORT AWARD:

Combilift scoops the Irish exporter of the year award for the second time.

CEF NEWS:

The latest developments from the Construction Employers Federation.

44 CREAGH CONCRETE:

The Toomebridge company announces its most successful year since the downturn in 2008.

66 INTERVIEW:

Specify talks to Celine Treanor, Bid Manager at Gilbert-Ash, who says that bidding is not as easy as ABCD...

67 UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER:

Richard Moorehead of HNH Group in Belfast looks at the short and long term positive impacts of the relocation of the University of Ulster

-

contents |05

David Jameson Roofing Scaling the HEIGHTS

10 HAYS RECRUITMENT

Mark Wade, Director at Hays Northern Ireland

David Jameson Roofing celebrates 30 years of business Page 16

45 WILLIS INSURANCE & RISK ASSESSMENT

David Workman, Broking Director, Willis Insurance

66 INTERVIEW

Specify talks to Celine Treanor, Bid Manager for Gilbert-Ash

06|

digest

Gilbert-Ash completes restoration Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year of growth plan in UK and Ireland.

Belfast’s landmark Crown Bar NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists Gilbert -Ash and the National Trust the have company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based completed a series of complex restorations turnover ofof£6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, operating its Nutt’s Corner Harvey acquired the CrownGroup, Bar onhas Great Victoria Street, thefrom most premises.

Northern renewable famous pub Ireland in Belfast.

AsNational a result Trust of the deal, Solmatix energy Solmatix The bar, specialists, which has been looked after by the will continue to operate as an Renewables in a move the since 1978, has been returned to its full Victorian splendour autonomous and independent companies say will transform following a six week project which saw floors, ceilings, stained thewindows, renewable sector glass tiling energy and booths delicately company repaired. within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director in Northern Ireland act The Victorian gin palaceand is well-known for its intricate Harveytourists Group, said there was as adécor springboard fortofurther Italian dating back the 1800s andofattracts a perfect fit between the two expansion into the multifrom all over the world. The ten individually shaped and organisations. million pound UK and Ireland elaborately decorated wooden booths contain gunmetal havevery been planning to renewable energy markets. plates for striking matches, and an antique bell“We system, Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables The acquisition, for an Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). common in Victorian houses where servants were employed, involvement for some time, either organically sum, will bring to 110 toundisclosed alert bar staff. as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through said: the acquisition of an the of people employed Ray number Hutchinson, managing director of Gilbert-Ash, customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey established player. directly by the Harvey Group in an important “We are delighted to have had such role in Having worked “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Solmatix Renewables on Northern Ireland and Great Britain. bringing this much-loved bar back to its former glory and of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d With a turnover of £30 million to have had the opportunity to work with the National real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. always been impressed with and over 80 staff, Harvey Group Trust again. The Crown Bar has several features which made organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix their engineering rigour and has over 30 years’ experience our work particularly interesting. The polychromatic tiles on enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean professionalism. In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and the exterior wall and the mosaic floor required specialist resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, to be a natural synergy between maintenance of building services techniques to repair and replace wear and tear areas. We Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to our two companies in terms of within every conceivable kind of were careful however not to remove all features of the bar, to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB asand some ofincluding the marks related to importantapproached stories in the within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our Richard Bell about a RoI, Pharmaceutical/ bar’s history andLaboratories, we worked with these inyear mind.

Ontothe more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff ago float the idea of our Cleanrooms, exterior wallsGovernment you can still and see the marks where fish sellers’ win-winIan relationship that’s good withis (L-R) courtesy and consideration. ” Pictured the Crown Bar Ray Hutchinson, managing director of Gilbert-Ash, Fisher, project manager at Gilbertcompanies coming together, butatonly Education, Ash and Claire Magill, conservator with the National Trust. carts would collide with the building. ” for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and if there was a good fit. After careful Healthcare . Richard and Norahwell as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix consideration we both agreed Anne Bell founded Solmatix Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that this would indeed be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then

Windell wins Small Business award Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction glazing specialists Windell Ltd recently contract at Randox Science ParkMagherafelt scooped the national award for Small Business of the Year.

Ltd, a leading of high securitycommented: and commercial production of Randox’s pioneering this contractWindell with Randox, one of manufacturer Director at Randox “The systems were crowned winners having of faced competition medical diagnostic products and will Northernglazing Ireland’s most dynamic development Randox Science from overbusinesses 70 companies from across the also include associated administrative and exciting on a local ParkUK. is core to our plans to create Ann McGregor, Chief Executive, Northerndiagnostics, Ireland Chamber of functions. The works are the first and global level.

Through the quality innovative to improve Commerce and Industry Chamber Awards aretoconsidered phase of a major capital expenditure of our work and the dedication andsaid: “The manufacturing efficiency export one ofofthe UK’s most and prestigious awards project by Randox to develop the professionalism our team TALhotly has contested high-value healthcare business capabilities to and provide thelast perfect platformworld for local businesses establish former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the 34 years markets.

This to state-of-the-art themselves on reinforces a local and national stage. will become a centre of into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a and this contract award premises areexpertise delightedinthat have received the recognition and futuristic R&D and manufacturing the strength“We of our theWindellcutting-edge research, development WItH a reputation for competition a numbercovering of firms facility. The award-winning, healthcareprofile sector.they ” deserve by seeing offand diagnosticfrom manufacture, excellence in constructing high acrosswill Northern Ireland, England,conditions Scotland and international biotechnology firm, The project be delivered suchWales. as cancer, stroke and quality projects, tAL Limited is companies who will play aWe crucial in helpinga unveiled its plans for an innovative to BIM level“It 2 in partnershipsuch as these heart disease. will role also provide has been awarded a significant the economy moveand from being good, to being great, in the hub on the 43 acre site earlier this with the design team Ostick significant boost to the localmonths economy contract (£3.1m) by global and years ahead. year.

Williams Architects, Rainey” & Best, through new job creation. We very medical diagnostics company Now inDelap its 12th year, the Chamber are one the with Welcoming the announcement, Doran Consulting, & Waller muchAwards look forward toofworking Randox. in the businessTAL calendar, highlighting the role of Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Consultingshowpiece Engineersevents and Charles on this initial contract to deliver This initial contract is for the in delivering growth andthe prosperity for the UK and local Limited commented: “We are Hutchisonbusiness Consulting. high quality infrastructure we Pictured (l-r) areof IanaHenry Mike Lawler (from sponsorto NFU Mutual) andawarded Rodney Hassan (Windell). construction new (Windell); facility for communities delighted have been Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

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20/08/2014 16:45

digest

||07 07

CDE Global doubles project size of north america office Major wastewater in Bangor scoops Engineering Excellence award applications in a variety of sectors; construction, recruits.” recycling, mining, specialist industrial sands and Joel Prince, general manager of CDE Global environmental. The regional office network has in North Carolina, said: “At this point there are a presence in Kolkata (India),The Sao scheme Paulo (Brazil) eight in the will improve the of us working Water said:office “Thismade awardupis of a great and Cary (North America). development executives andLuke’s seniorPoint design sewerage infrastructure in business the achievement for the Brendan McGurgan, managing director of engineers.

We really value a blend of technical and Bangor area, improving the water team who received an “excellent” CDE Global, said: “The sizequality of theinmarket across commercial talent and we have been fortunate Ballyholme strand and whole team award. The team all sectors makes North America continent toIreland find that by working withovercame Virginia Tech, a local will helpa to meet Northern successfully many where there is a significantEnvironment opportunity Agency for the Standards university. engineering and environmental company to target and, while it is competitive, “It was important that we ethos (NIEA). challenges to continued complete athe successful The CDE Global team based in North Carolina we believe that our people, along with our award aims of the CDE headquarters Cookstown in our This CEEQUAL sustainableinsewerage Improvement supply chain and the energy nature of office in North Carolina, to efficient assist clients, designers Project. so of the eight of us CDE Global, which has its headquarters our products, will set CDEand apart.

Achievingto deliver currently in the office areatfrom Northern contractors “Thefour work Luke’s Point in Cookstown, recently announced that it significant growth in market share in the US and Ireland and four are from America.

The local improved project specification, is part of the overall Bangor has doubled its presence in North America, Canada will form a major part of our global growth community also shares many similarities design and construction of civil Sewerage Improvement with Project, with the creation of four new jobs. strategy to 2020 and we lookengineering forward toprojects. realising It celebrates Northern Irelandwhich so it represents was a natural fit for our base an investment The company says this investment is a its full potential in the comingthe years. to be here.” commitment of the civil of approximately £8m to upgrade demonstration of their commitment the BSG, David McCune “There are several reasonsengineering why we chose Caryto achieve Mr Prince added: a strong tradition Pictured are: (L-R) Joseph Martin AECOM, Paulto McErlean AECOM, David industry and “There increaseis the capacity of the McGrath NI Water, Sir John Armitt PresidentInstitution Civil Engineers, McManus AECOM, significant opportunities within this key marketof and as theSam location for this office.high Firstenvironmental, and foremost iteconomic of machine export from Northern Ireland to area, and sewerage infrastructure in the Bill Gowdy NI Water, Paul McSparran BSG Civil Engineering, and Samuel Donaldson AECOM. forms part of the company’s growth strategy for is halfway along the north coast, which positions It rewards North America achieving and therecompliance is a respectwith for the social performance.

NIEA 2020 which will see the team target a significant us in the best Northteamscraftsmanship.

There is a lot of EU skilldirectives in Northern projectwith and the contract that standards and for The NI Water team working Quality Assessment) in time zone to engage increase in sales in North America.

American market.

It is also situated close to the Ireland and our customers will be aware go the extra mile to achieve bathing water quality.” of that. on the Bangor Sewerage recognition of their work to The recruits will be joining the office in upgrade Cary, Research Triangle Park of North Carolina, one of It is social important to remember thatclosely every with machine distinctive environmental and “We worked our Improvement Programme a Pumping Station North Carolina, which is responsible for sales, the largest research parks in the world.

Almost all we sell in North America will help to support performance in their work. entire project team to achieve job this has scooped a prestigious at Luke’s Point, Ballyholme in engineering and after (Civil sales care for customers in as part Fortune 500 overall companies have a Bill presence this Northern Ireland. ” GowdyinDirector of creation back in award, including contractor BSG CEEQUAL award Bangor, of the the US and Canada.

The infrastructure is good, with an airport CDE Global currently employs and 140AECOM. people ” Engineering Procurement at NI Civil Engineering Engineering Environmental programmearea. of improvements.

CDE Global designs and manufactures materials close to the new office, and we are also in the in Cookstown with a sister company, CDEnviro washing and classification equipment with vicinity of some great engineering schools for new employing a further 28 people.

Marcon Fit-Out begins Gilbert-ash creates 40 new jobs new chapter in Seamus following high profile contract wins Heaney building (L-R): Andrew Todd, Director, Tandem Design and Mark McElroy, Director, Marcon Fit-Out.

AwArD-winning construction managers, planners and estimators. and fit-out contractor GilbertRay Hutchinson, Managing Marcon Fit-Out has been awarded the contract for the Ash has announced that it has Director of Gilbert-Ash, said:fit-out “I of the new Centream in very Bellaghy. created 40 Seamus new jobsHeaney in the first proud that the company Theofbuilding work of the late poet Seamus half 2015. will showcase the life and has increased its workforce so Heaney bringing together an interactive exhibition using the latestWe audio The substantial increase in staff significantly at this time. took the visual technology a 160-seater and performance numbers has beenwith driven by a seriestheatre strategic decision to space, target learning projects zones children and adults as well as community of highfor profile contract wins across that wouldspace. allow us to make use of Marcon’s heritage team will be using the skills its joinery and the UK including the £13 million ourspecialist expertise andofexperience workshop to create bespoke elements for the new building which being contract to refurbish and extend this activity is helping us tois sustain developed byArmy Mid Ulster District the National Museum and Council.our plans for continual growth. By McElroy, Director,of Marcon commented: “We are really projects theMark £20m refurbishment the Fit-Out,specifically targeting bespoke excited to be playing such a key role in the new Seamus Heaney Interpretive world-renowned Bartlett School of in niche areas, we have won a Centre.

This culturally significant project will be an important facility for local Architecture at University College number of high profile, multi-million people visitors into theand area.we anticipate London.and will be a driver to attract newpound contracts Our heritage team is looking forward to starting work on the scheme, This consistent success with large further wins in the coming year.” supported by our specialist joinery workshop which will manufacture contracts has also seen Gilbert-Ash Gilbert-Ash has recently the many bespoke itemswith within the new building.the We5G areInnovation delighted to expand its basejoinery in London, completed Centre have been awarded as it will further enhance our reputation the company movingthis to project larger new at the University of Surrey, which is within theinmuseum andofheritage premises the centre the city.sector. the first facility of its kind worldwide IThe havejobs a personal connection with the project as like Seamus Heaney are across all dedicated to the Research and I was taught at Anahorish Primary School and my late grandfather Eddie Diamond construction disciplines including Development of 5G technologies. In issite mentioned theengineers, Heaney poem ” managers,insite design‘Hailstones’.

Liverpool the company has recently The award-winning fit-out firm will be working closely with leading

Pictured at the Institution of Engineering and Technology's building in Savoy Place in London where Gilbert-Ash is currently carrying out a £20 million refurbishment is ray Hutchinson, Managing Director of Gilbert-Ash, and Gerry Hughes, Construction Director of Gilbert-Ash

finished Phase 1 of the major refurbishment of another landmark site, the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

The Everyman Theatre in Liverpool, which was constructed

by Gilbert-Ash, won the most prestigious award in the architecture industry last year, the Stirling Prize, beating the Shard, the Library of Birmingham and the London Aquatics Centre.

Mr Hutchinson added: “It is in London where Gilbert-Ash has enjoyed the most success recently interpretive designer, to deliver the new centre. and the expansion ofTandem, our office Andrew Todd, Director, Tandem, “The project presents an building reflects this. Work is progressing at added: a and Commonwealth office opportunity to celebrate the contribution made to the world by rapid pace on a £20m refurbishment on King Charles Street inSeamus Whitehall.

Heaney and to inspire the next generation children in the arearelationships to not of the Institution of Engineering and Weofhave formed strong only be proud of their regionPlace but also towith delveour into poetry that has a Technology building in Savoy partners on all of our personal connection to themdue all through recent the landscape they is a in London, with the building projects and share. this hasIt helped privilege to work on the project and have the opportunity to develop a for handover in October 2015. We to create new opportunities through new tourism draw for the area and as such our expectations of the finished have also recently secured a £1m repeat business as we move forward product are high and withForeign Marcon on board fit-out we ”are contract to work on the with to ourdeliver plans the for expansion. one step closer.”

08|

digest

Kingspan’s technology Dunlop new Homes to build 37 newbuilds homes Women’stec on breakthrough set to lower success with loanBank with £1.5m funding from Danske building lifetime costs and Residential builder,environmental Dunlop enhance Homes is set to build a new housing development in performance Comber consisting of 37 homes following a £1.5m investment supported by Danske Bank.

Dunlop Homes is a family run business that has been operating for four generations. The company has already completed and sold a number of homes in the first phase of the final stage of the very successful Mill Village development, offering a variety of luxury homes on a 10 acre site.

Phase three is due to commence in the New Year and be completed in the next 18 months.

Lynn Carvill, Chief executive of WoMen’sTeC is pictured with Harry McDaid, Chief David Dunlop, Managing Director executive of UCiT and Ray Hutchinson, Managing Director at gilbert-ash. at Dunlop Homes said: “This is an (l to r) phil smith, Managing Director UK & ireland, Kingspan insulated panels and gilbert McCarthy, WoMen will be trained in construction and iCT skills to exciting Director, time forKingspan Dunlop Homes.

We Managing insulated panels.

(L-R) Pictured is David Dunlop, Managing Director at Dunlop Homes John Gunning, Director at Dunlop Ltd, and Davidcharity.

Croft, Senior Business help findLtd; employment thanks to aHomes Belfast-based were actively seeking funding for the Manager at Danske Bank.

WoMen’sTeC has received a loan from the Ulster development and it was Danske Kingspan insulated panelsBank has launched ipn-QuadCore, a Manager at Danskeinvestment Bank, commented: Community Trust (UCiT) helpand deliver this Bank that we felt werepanel able tocore best that meetdeliversMr difficultto years, at Danske Dunlop highlightedfire the and support new insulated the best thermal, “The Dunlops were in a position to training. our needs. we welcome the opportunity to of Danske: “We have been banking environmental performance of any closed-cell material. invented buy and sell provides properties throughout UCIT affordable loans to community and socialhouse enterprise “Our houses in technology phase one have support residential builders with Danske 40 years and with a bespoke process that createsfora over unique microcell the residential property downturn, businesses throughout Northern Ireland andworking in the Republic of Ireland. proved hugely popular, showing there with capital finance.

A As they have been hugely supportive. As structure, ipn-QuadCore is set to bring about a fundamental a testament to their knowledge of a registered charity, all profits generated are retained and recycled for the is a demand for this type of new recent report by the Construction well as significant financial support, shift in building performance, resulting in lower lifetime costs and theirbenefit market, prudent approach of and its clients. property in environmental the North Down credentials. area.

Employers Federation (CEF) warned the knowledge and expertise they enhanced to business.

We have been WOMEN’STEC beganworking 21 years ago that and ais shortfall the largest provider of of The“This second phase this residential in the number havetechnology shared withbreakthrough us has been in a is our mostofsignificant insulated panel closely withfor them for some time to training women in non-traditional skills in Ireland.

Thecould charitylead enables development will consist of three houses being built to instrumental in securing a third phase decade, ” said Gilbert McCarthy, Managing Director, Kingspan Insulated Panels. helpwomen them secure thisto land.

to return employment in non-traditional sectors, promoting pairs of semi-detached and four high performance, another property bubble, so this type of development at The Mill Village “The property market demands energy-efficient buildings “The building sector isand steadily a diverse workforce reducing the skills shortage in is thea good construction detached finished to the of development news story site.” environmental impact. The that deliverhomes low risk, high net yield and reduced recovering a number of and ICTafter industries.

Currently they employ five economy. staff and ”engage with highest standards. ” for the David Croft, Senior these Business unprecedented performance of IPN-QuadCore helps to deliver superior numerous self-employed tutors. buildings, making the strongest business case yet for sustainability.”

Lynn Carvill, Chief Executive of WOMEN’STEC explained: “The charity IPN-QuadCore delivers a 20% thermal improvement over standard was set up to support women in areas of high deprivation, giving them polyurethane insulated panel core insulation. It has a lambda value of just the skills and confidence to get back into employment in decent paid jobs.

0.018w/mK, the best in the industry, and achieves U-values as low as 0.08w/ “Our last programme ended in March and has yielded fantastic results. m2K. More than 400 women obtained qualifications, 80 went on to further IPN-QuadCore enhances the environmental credentials of buildings education, 43 went into employment, 42 went intohave voluntary and CITB NIFirstly, is bringing awareness the work Speaking about the innovative supervisors instantwork access in two ways. the technology helps toand achieve higherofratings in location.

13training became self-employed. construction training to a Viewers can experience real time new facility Chief Executive to complex operations, allowing building assessment methodologies such as BREEAM and LEED, with the loansaid: from UCIT not us totofinish our current whole new AECOM level with theshowing that situations and identify hazards Barry “The Neilson “VET360 will only allowed analysis improve processes by aforementioned study an IPN-QuadCore building in programme but helped develop our new one.

We will working with launch of their brand new complete safety raising awareness transform the way we view training understanding realbeinteractions and achieves six more BREEAM Ene01 credits than a typical retail or distribution Clanmil Housing residents and have engaged with construction virtual environment training and understanding of health & safety in the local construction industry. foreseeing possible delays.companies We are warehouse. such as to help deliver a whole new level of training to facility at Nutts Corner issues. Purpose built advanced 360° It allows theGilbert-Ash user to travel through very excited of the opportunities Each IPN-QuadCore panel is backed by the industry’s first 40 year guarantee women. ” Training centre. camera technology is used to create a virtual version of their site and that VET360 will bring to the ever which covers both structural and thermal performance. This ensures that a continued: “There ahead for WOMEN’STEC, VET360 is an innovative new customised imagery allowing the carry She out planning and designare exciting times changing construction industry and building will perform the property, reducing costly creating developing partnerships with the ”private sector. Our goal tool that provides‘as-built’ a uniqueover andthe life of viewer to be placed into the middle meetings, siteand inductions or safety beyond. envelope maintenance andexperience repair costs as of time The longwithout guarantee is to keep reaching into the communities andInterested helping women develop the memorable immersive realpasses. site locations the briefings.

The facility allows user in experiencing can which be offered because IPN-QuadCore’s unique closed-cell structure resists skillsmore, to find employment.

We currentlyVET360 work across Belfast want to gives the user instant logistical and safety problems involved to see save time and stay and see howbut it could moisture ingress, which maintains the structural integrity of the core, and cuts eventually work beyond that. ” access to construction sites in a in workplace visits. The specialised safe as VET360 is the perfect bridge transform your training? Contact Speaking of UCIT’s backing for the project, she said: 028 “UCIT have beenor the workplace risk of additional moisture weight, a leading cause creates of structural failure in environment. technology an immersive between theoretical classroom Lorraine Fisher 9082 4202 extremely supportive of our work.

Our case worker Sinead was very inferiorUsed products. as a training tool VET360 experience which makes the user feel training and the reality of a busy email: lorraine.fisher@citbni.org.uk for professional helped through a difficult time. I can’t speak highly IPN-QuadCore is being introduced to cold-store insulated panels allows greater understanding as if they are actually on the site. construction site.and Senior staffusand more information. enough of UCIT and the amazing support they’ve given us.” immediately, with a wider rollout commencing later this year.

CITB NI: Bringing training to life

digest

||09 09

McCue wins at London Retail Week Interiors Awards New Architectural practice opens its doors in Derry THE prestigious ISG UK Retail many fantastic projects.

Week Interiors Awards 2015 “I am delighted with the Two former colleagues with designs The pair’s new venture is already off to took place recently at the judges’comments and winning not on shaping Derry’s future have set up a flying start, with Gradon Architecture Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, in one but two awards on the night is a new architectural practice in the designing the RoCo hair and beauty salon London, with McCue Crafted exceptional and is testament to the city. Architect Sean Furey, 47, and on the prominent Derry waterfront after Fit winning both the ISG UK fact that we are doing something very architectural technician Liam Nelis, fire destroyed the salon’s original premises Retail Interior of the Year and right in our complete solutions fit 35, have teamed up with long-time and the business was forced to relocate.

Non-Food Design of the Year out company and with our bespoke friend and experienced architect With the salon owners passionate about for the fit out of the Lush Fresh craftsmanship and architectural Graham McDarby to launch Gradon upcycling, Liam and Sean worked to create Handmade Cosmetics flagship joinery services.

Architecture in Northern Ireland. a unique, eye-catching environment using store in Oxford Street.

“The team at Lush is to be Graham and his wife Donna founded predominantly recycled and sustainable Both awards were in conjunction commended; they are a young and Gradon Architecture in Gateshead, in the materials. with Design Time architects and in dynamic team with lots of enthusiasm North East of England, in the depths of Liam said: “Sean and I have long dreamed addition to recognising the design it and are extremely passionate about the recession in 2009. Based on the core of opening a practice in Derry. It’s a city on recognised McCue’s bespoke joinery their brand and this flagship store. It values of delivering architecture with care the up and we’re really excited to have the skills and fit out. The store, Lush’s was a real privilege to support them and efficiency, the business has since gone opportunity to work with Graham to launch biggest in the world at 9,500 sq ft, throughout this project and to see from strength to strength, expanding into Gradon Architecture in Northern Ireland. showcases all that is innovative and them accept these awards too, in Pictured with McCue’s Managing Director, Les McCracken are Design Time (Steve Moore, Nick Mongolia and winning multiple industry What’s even better is that we have beenLush (Claire Constantine, Jo Evans, Katie Tabram, Jennifer Hilton, David Segelman), Fiona Wilson), inspiring about the company. front of their peers and an array of awards. able to hit the ground running. Nevin (Business Development) and Bob Young (Contracts Manager) from McCue. Les McCracken, Managing Director retailers.”

Liam and Sean, who have a total of 35 “We are committed to developing furniture and any that was not night that: “Taking an established retail at McCue Crafted Fit, based in The work undertaken by McCue years’ experience in the trade between them, sustainable architecture, so the RoCo salon was FSC certified. As well reclaimed format and completely reinventing it, Carrickfergus, said: “To win these was in line with Lush’s company will be heading up Gradon Architecture’s was a fantastic project to start offaswith.

Wea must see retail store, being making it a destination for loyal and prestigious and highly respected values in that SKA sustainability expansion into Northern Ireland, backed by have created a unique environment thisusing venue also features a Lush new shoppers is what the winner industry awards in London is a great guidelines were strictly adhered to the wider team in the UK and Mongolia. upcycled and sustainable materialsSpa thatcomplete is not with four treatment of this category has managed to do. honour for McCue Crafted Fit. It was throughout. All the wood used in Having the support of the team in the only great to look at but also tailored to the rooms.

‘Amazing’ and ‘it really does look an outstanding evening where some the construction was FSC certified.

UK and Mongolia means that Liam and Sean needs of the business, its staff and customers.

The Non-Food Design of the entirely different’ were just two of the of the most esteemed companies in Reclaimed wood and vintage can call on a wealth of extra resources and Projects already secured for Gradon Year judges commented on the reactions from the judges.” the UK were present representing buys were used in much of the specialist architectural expertise, including Architecture include a number of bespoke Liam Nelis, Sean Furey and Graham McDarby of Gradon Architecture at Building Information Modelling (BIM), should private residential projects and a large-scale the opening of RoCo salon a project require it. retail complex.

Expansion for Murdock’s as new branch opens

Brett Martin launches new Deepstyle 170

Newry-based Murdock Builder’s Merchants, one of Ireland’s Representing an investment of €1.1m and creating 15 new jobs, the leading suppliers of building materials, tools and DYI products, new branch is located on the Lower Ballymount Road, Walkinstown. It will AS has rainfall intensity and frequency captive seal complement is held securely Manufactured in the UKNorth at Brett Martin’s own further expanded its network with the specially openingdesigned of a second Murdock’s existing site in Balbriggan, Dublin, which has continues each year, to it is11vital the fitting lockstrading the seal quality assured BSwhich EN ISO branch to in rise Dublin, taking the total nowwithin operated by whilst the clipbeen forfirmly 10 years.

The company, was 9001:2008 establishedfactories, in 1982 thatMurdock’s. rainwater drainage systems have in place. When fitting the gutter, the CLIP provides the Deepstyle 170 system is a robust, hardalready operates nine highly successful branches across Northern Ireland the capacity to protect a building and its just enough flex to allow the gutter to locate wearing and employs a team of over 270 solution. staff. Tested to EN 1462 Load Class contents. The new Deepstyle 170 high within the fitting, whilst a reassuring click locks the H service to withstand heavy duty snow loading, the sector, Originally established to the local building and construction performance rainwater system from Brett gutter securely into position compressing theadapted seal Murdock’s has extensively over system the lastis10also years.

This to hasretain included high gloss PVC proven its Martin Plumbing & Drainage combines for superior sealing. the extension of its product and service ranges, enabling the business to stunning aesthetic with UV protection providing increased drainage capacity with design Deepstyle 170 integrates seamlessly with respond to its Brett changing customer Ofstability particular significance been long termbase. colour – backed by a has 10 year flexibility to provide reliable, effective and Martin’s 110mm Industrial Downpipe System to the growth in demand for DIY and home improvement services, fuelled by colour warranty. efficient drainage for large commercial, complete the company’s high capacity offering. the ‘improve, don’t move’ trend which peaked during the recent economic With a reputation for quality and reliability industrial, agricultural and residential roofs. Comprising 110mm plain ended or single downturn. socket developed over more than 50 years in the Specifically developed with a super-sized 170mm downpipe options, with high quality PVCu fittings, A key factor in the decision to Deepstyle open a second branch has been industry, 170 isDublin the latest addition to profile to accommodate the increased volumes of including bends, branches, access pipes and to support theclips, building trade’s preference to order and collect all materials Brett Martin’s rainwater portfolio which includes rainwater on large roof areas with a capacity of the system retains the adaptability fromessential a centralinlocation. This, combined with Murdock’s 6.45am114mm opening 106mm Prostyle, 112mm Roundstyle, 11.54 litres per second, the new Deepstyle 170 planning an industrial rainwatertime scheme. enables customers to beat the city’s rush hour traffic congestion.

Squarestyle, 115mm Deepstyle and 160mm system requires fewer discharge points reducing “Combining an efficient installation with Group Sales Manager (RoI), Gary Craven who believes much of High Capacity in addition to the innovative and the number of downpipes to provide both exceptional reliability and increased capacity, Murdock’s success to date has been the emphasis placed on staff training, highly acclaimed Cascade range of cast iron effect material and installation savings. Designed with the Deepstyle 170 perfectly complements our existing customer insights and product knowledge: “Our personal approach and guttering and downpipe profiles. Brett Martin’s installer in mind, the system also features new and range of rainwater systems,” said Hayley Lowry, ability to build relationships with our customers has helped us differentiate on-going investment in the latest manufacturing innovative factory fitted CLIP & SEAL technology Brett Martin Marketing Manager.

“With continued ourselves from the competition, particularly the larger wholesale operators. technology, innovation and product development on all fittings to ease installation and provide investment in product researchOur andrange development, of products and services also means we are regarded as a ‘one that thewith company’s above and belowand exceptional long-term sealing reliability. our range satisfies every variety of roof stop shop’drainage by the buildingensures trade, backed the one-on-one advice Pictured are (l-r): Stephen McDonnell (Ballymount Sales Manager), Ann Morgan (CEO of ground drainage products remain at the forefront AMurdock’s) unique and addition to Deepstyle 170, the CLIP from the smallest domestic property to which much customers appreciate today.” expertise Gary Craven (Group Sales Manager, RoI). of the industry. & SEAL fully integrates with the fitting so that the larger agricultural and commercial buildings.”

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10| Hays

Fresh opportunities to look forward to in 2016: Hays

By Mark Wade, Director at Hays Northern Ireland

T

his coming 12 months is set to be a big year for Northern Ireland construction.

The prospect of elections and a new Programme for Government represents a fresh opportunity to make the case for greater infrastructure investment.

There is no hiding the scale of the challenge ahead on public sector investment. The latest RICS / Tughans Market Survey found that infrastructure activity had fallen significantly in the final three months of the year. As RICS Northern Ireland Jim Sammon said, ‘Government needs to create the conditions to grow jobs and business’.

In terms of how government does this, the recent CEF manifesto represents a valuable contribution as to how we can enhance what John Armstrong rightly describes as “the bedrock of Northern Ireland’s future economic growth”. [That document can be downloaded from cefni.co.uk] But it seems government is listening. A statement by former

Finance Minister Foster to the Assembly in December offered welcome news for the industry.

Among the proposals for the 2016/2017 budget is a commitment to progress the A5 scheme; £46m of Capital expenditure for roads structural maintenance; and £25 million to be re-purposed to fund capital projects represent positive news.

Aside from infrastructure, the last quarterly Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin estimated total output to be 18% higher compared to the same quarter in 2014. According to DFP, there have now been four consecutive quarterly increases in construction output in NI. In our view this trend looks set to continue based on the findings of the Hays annual UK Salary & Recruiting Trends 2016.

This is a benchmark survey of more than 20,000 employers and employees around the UK, and it also contains deep insight into the local economy. One of the main findings in the survey suggests that four fifths of

employers here plan to recruit over the coming 12 months.

The survey gathered together insights from 500 professionals and candidates in a range of sectors, a fifth of these representing industries such as building services, civil engineering, commercial and on-site construction as well as technical surveying. So it not only identifies optimism within construction but that positivity is widely spread around the local economy.

However, once again our survey found that demand for skills will have cost implications for business.

A heightened competition for talent in a growing market will likely lead to pay pressure on construction firms this year. For construction professionals across the UK, the Hays survey found that year-onyear salary increases saw upward movement of 3.6% for 2015. This rise meant the average UK salary of £36,864 for 2014 rose to £38,195 last year.

Nonetheless, candidates should be pragmatic around pay packages

and remain realistic as to what is affordable to employer organisations.

Additionally, candidates should evaluate the strategic benefits of being associated with a particular project and how that experience advances their long term career options.

And while the focus for many contractors understandably remains on the GB market, we hope that with continued economic optimism, capital expenditure and housing confidence here that the Northern Ireland market evolves to a more balanced outlook for all.

Finally, for employers seeking to retain core talent, these would be well advised to develop a clear action plan aimed at developing staff and ensuring this is clearly communicated across the organisation. By both introducing new and enhancing existing talent, firms can maintain momentum in the year ahead.

For further information about Hays in Northern Ireland log on to http:// www.hays.co.uk/northern-ireland/

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12|

digest

500 construction sector training places for women to be created Gilbert Ash managing director Ray Hutchinson and Womenstec trainee Sophia Kyle mark the launch of a new training programme for 500 women.

Training schemes for more than 500 participants who face particularly difficult barriers to employment and training across Northern Ireland are to be created in the next three years thanks to a new programme developed by training agency WOMEN’STEC and Clanmil Housing Group.

The programme has attracted support from the private sector and is being backed by construction firms GilbertAsh and JMC Mechanical and Construction Ltd. The programme is designed to give people, mainly women, who are struggling to get a job an opportunity to explore their options in the construction industry. Accredited training in plumbing, joinery, painting and decorating, tiling, horticulture and IT will equip them for the world of work.

The SPEC (Supporting People – Empowering Communities) programme is funded by the European Social Fund and Department of Employment and Learning and has secured investment from Belfast City Council.

WOMEN’STEC chief executive Lynn Carvill says the initiative is the first such private, voluntary and public sector partnership of its kind.

“This is a historic departure as

it is the first time we have secured significant private sector sponsorship,” says Ms. Carvill. “Students will start their training on various trades by sampling courses before moving on to OCN-accredited courses. These courses will be complemented with confidence-building, money management, job readiness and enterprise programmes – offering a full range of opportunities to students.

“WOMEN’STEC works with women who are furthest removed for the labour market, many of whom are lone parents. These women can experience specific barriers to accessing training and moving into work. The Supporting People – Empowering Communities programme will tackle these barriers by providing onsite childcare and travel expenses where needed,” she says.

The SPEC programme is a partnership between WOMEN’STEC and Clanmil Housing, who provides almost 4,000 social homes throughout Northern Ireland.

Clanmil Chief Executive Clare McCarty says: “As well as a good home, we want the people who live in the homes we provide to get the most from life and to reach their full potential.

“The SPEC programme is one of a number of initiatives we’re introducing

at Clanmil to support our tenants in developing their communities and to help those who need it to gain the confidence and skills to progress into accredited training and ultimately employment.

“We are very excited to work’ with WOMEN’STEC on this project and are particularly pleased that our Maintenance Contractor, JMC, is one of the sponsors supporting the programme.”

Gilbert Ash is the first private sector backer of a WOMEN’STEC programme. Ray Hutchinson,

Managing Director of Gilbert-Ash says: “We are pleased to be able to partner with WOMEN’STEC on their latest programme. At present, two of the main issues in the construction sector are the shortage of skills and the under-representation of women. Our workforce is currently 24% females, well above the industry average of 13.4%, but we are continuing to work proactively to make sure that we always hire the best candidate for the job. Our partnership with WOMEN’STEC is an important part of our strategy to raise the profile of construction as an industry of choice to work in and to attract more women into the sector. The training and opportunities WOMEN’STEC are providing local women are invaluable and partnering with them was a natural fit. We look forward to developing our partnership further and helping local women find employment in the construction sector.”

Tracey Victor of JMC Mechanical and Construction Ltd says: “We’re delighted to be part of the Clanmil team providing maintenance services to the people who live in Clanmil homes and it makes perfect sense for us to get involved with this project to support those same people gain essential employability skills. Also, as a company working in the construction industry we know the value of training and welcome any initiative that increases the pool of skilled workers.”

Tracy Victor of Lurgan-based JMC Mechanical and Construction with trainee Sophia Kyle and Clare Carty of Clanmil Housing Association mark the launch of the training scheme.

TBC

Specialist Conversions is one of the leading vehicle conversion and adaption companies, operating throughout the island of Ireland.

manufacturers including VW Commercial Vehicles, Mercedes, Ford, Citroen, Vauxhall and Peugeot, the company has built a reputation for delivering the highest quality conversions and adaptions for businesses and organisations of all sizes.

Based in Dungannon Co Tyrone, the company offers the complete range of bespoke conversions including ply-lining, seat adaptions, vehicle glazing, shelving systems, tow bars, roof racks and bespoke crewvan and refrigeration solutions – ideal for plumbing, joinery and electrical contracting companies of all sizes.

“Our team of highly qualified technicians is capable of working on any commercial vehicle and the team is highly experienced in the design, the manufacturing process and more importantly, in all the relevant safety legislation. By understanding the needs of our clients, we are able to apply this knowledge to deliver conversions of the highest standard.”

“From our production facility we have the capability to deliver conversions and adaptions on any scale,” said Managing Director, David Donnell.

“We have undertaken work for private customers as well as large fleets and with a number of the key frontline services across Northern Ireland, including power companies, fire authorities and water services.”

Working with all the leading commercial vehicle

TBC Specialist Conversions have a very clear vision according to David Donnell: “We believe that everyone regardless of need, business type or budget, should drive a vehicle designed to the highest standard and specification and we strive to deliver on that vision continuously, converting and adapting each vehicle with intelligence, empathy and care.”

For more information please contact 028 8772 2247 visit, www.tbcconversions.com

digest

14|

McAvoy Group hosts CIOB visit to Lisburn factory Recently McAvoy Group hosted a Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) continual professional development event at its Lisburn factory.

The event included a presentation

by David Clark, Design Manager on the advantages of offsite construction including how modern buildings are being constructed under controlled factory conditions then brought to sites throughout the UK and Ireland for final assembly. With forecasts on the expected changes facing the construction industry all pointing to the need for faster and more efficient delivery, offsite construction is becoming increasingly recognised as a way for that to be achieved.

Attendees at the event included construction professionals, lecturers and a delegation of Built Environment students from South Eastern Regional College’s (SERC) Lisburn campus.

Gerard Graham MCIOB, Senior

Vice-Chair of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre commented on the visit: “Seeing buildings being successfully designed and constructed under controlled factory conditions is very impressive. Using an innovative approach, McAvoy Group is clearly

challenging traditional construction methodologies which has to be commended. We would very much like to thank the staff of McAvoy Group for facilitating the event, and would like to wish the company well for the future.”

Inspirational building companies invited to enter Responsible Business Awards Business in the Community (BITC) is calling on companies in the building sector to showcase how they are taking practical action to address pressing issues as the 2016 Responsible Business Awards opens for entries.

The most prestigious and respected awards championing responsible business in the UK and abroad will identify and celebrate inspiring examples of businesses making a difference by creating stronger communities, building more inclusive workplaces and tackling societal and environmental challenges.

For further information about the 2016 Responsible Business Awards, including the full list of categories, the assessment criteria and application forms visit www.bitc.org.uk/awards

Action Renewables set to celebrate Northern Ireland innovation in renewables

Pictured at the launch of the 2016 Action Renewables Awards at Titanic Belfast are Ciaran McConville, Action Renewables; Mary Rossiter, Vayu; and Maria O’Loan, Tughans.

Teaming up with event sponsors including renewable electricity supplier Vayu and Tughans Solicitors at Titanic Belfast, Action Renewables recently announced that this year’s annual awards luncheon will take place at Titanic Belfast on Thursday 31st March 2016. Now in their eighth year, the Action Renewables Awards are recognised as the flagship awards of the renewables industry in Northern Ireland.

Ciaran McConville, Business Development and Marketing Assistant, Action Renewables, said at the awards launch that 2016’s event would be the best yet. “Now in their eighth year the Action Renewables Awards have gained more and more momentum and popularity with each year, and has become a key event in the Northern Ireland Business calendar.” said Ciaran.

“We’re delighted to welcome back event host Jamie Delargy and

our esteemed panel of judges for 2016, which includes industry experts Carol Forster, Operations Manager, NIEL; Jim Kitchen, Director, Sustainable NI; Dr Robin Curry, Queen’s University Belfast’s School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering; and Andy McCrea, Renewable Energy Consultant. The high calibre of industry figures who attend the annual event teamed with the stunning modern venue of Titanic Belfast will help to make this year’s event one to remember.”

With expertise in diverse areas of renewables development and practice, the 2016 judging panel represents all facets of the industry in Northern Ireland. “It is a pleasure to be invited to judge the Action Renewables Awards again this year,” said Carol Forster, Northern Ireland Environment Link. “The initiative has grown from strength to strength and is a wonderful way to showcase and celebrate excellence in the renewable energy sector.”

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16| David Jameson The new rooves at Castle Buildings, Stormont, supplied and fitted by David Jameson Roofing Services

David Jameson |17

David Jameson Roofing Scaling the HEIGHTS David Jameson Roofing celebrates 30 years of business

18| David Jameson David Jameson JNR with his sister Carrie in front of a portrait of their grandfather who was also a roofer

P

ortadown based roofing specialists, David Jameson Roofing Services has just celebrated their 30th year in business. The family business continues to

expand, improve turnover and take on and train new apprentices while maintaining an exemplary health and safety record as well as winning numerous awards for their

projects.

The company was started in 1985

by David Jameson senior who, like his father before him, was a roofer. David Sr, with some backing from the IDB, set up his own roofing company. From those early days the company

has continued to expand and now employs a staff of 80 looking after both roofing, building and asbestos removal. David Jr is at the helm now continuing on the family business.

The ethos of the family run company is corporate governance,

20| David Jameson “David Jameson Roofing sees training as of the utmost importance “Investment in our employees is an investment for our future success” added David

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22| David Jameson

compliance and the standing of the company name in the construction industry as paramount. The company was the first roofing business to be awarded the BS5750 Quality Control award in 1994 and also attained a ‘Fair Employment Certificate 1986’, essential for tendering for government contracts. A separate department for the removal of asbestos, Asbestos Removal Contractors (ARC) was set up in 1998.

David Jameson Roofing sees training as of the utmost importance: “Investment in our employees is an investment for our future success,” says David. Staff are made aware of the ‘open door’ policy of the company and the business is led in a ‘hands-on’ approach by David Jr who has worked in the company since he was on school holidays.

The company uses a wide range of roofing systems from Geco, Cefil, Fopan, Icopal, Kingspan, IKO and Britannia Coating Systems.

The company has a wide and diverse client base, ranging from public bodies, hospitals, schools, industry and private clients.

David Jameson |23

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Congratulations from all at BMG Insurance on your 30th Anniversary

“We are delighted to work with David Jameson Roofing Ltd and would like to congratulate them on 30 years in business and wish them continued success in the future.”

• 98 Banbridge Road, Lurgan BT66 7HQ • 028 3832 2165 • 078 7655 6754 • info@wmlsecurity.co.uk • www.wmlsecurity.co.uk

01606 834015 sales@britanniapaints.co.uk www.britanniapaints.co.uk

WATERPROOFING / PROTECTING / RENOVATING Britannia Paints are one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of high performance coating systems. The company, which is ISO 9001:2008 accredited, has an extensive portfolio of best-selling brands. Recent Britannia developments include the launch of BBA-approved Polyshield 15, a smooth, cold-applied rubber-based waterproofing coating for use as part of a reinforced, two-coat built-up system.

“We are delighted to work with David Jameson Roofing Ltd and would like to congratulate them on 30 years in business.

We look forward to many more years of business together.”

24| David Jameson They can deliver a wide range of services from major infrastructure projects to small works, planned maintenance, response maintenance and emergencies.

While roofing is the majority of their business, DJRS has diversified into building, scaffolding, asbestos removal, property management as well as joinery and cladding.

One of the biggest projects that the company was involved in was fitting a new roof to Castle Buildings on the Stormont Estate. While work was ongoing, the team from David Jameson had to ensure the building remained fully operational and all central government functions had to be maintained.

DJRS also had to supply and fit a new roof to Kilroot and Ballylumford Power Stations. This, of course, was a very intricate process in a highly regulated working environment. All DJRS staff received a site specific induction process and underwent dedicated Health and Safety training and certification prior to working on site as there was a significant asbestos hazard and a short timeframe to complete the work.

In 2015, the company delivered over 3800 response tasks, of which 700 were emergency tasks with a 30 minute response time anywhere in Northern Ireland. DJRS also delivered over 2200 planned maintenance roof tasks.

For the past five years, David Jr, the third generation of roofer in the family, has looked after the running of the company and is proud of the how the company has expanded, developed and diversified.

“In 2015 we earned recognition of our professional management and workmanship by winning several awards,” says David, “including the Gold Award in Roofing Safety 2014 & 2015 and Finalist in the training category for Construction Excellence Awards 2015 (finalist in 2012, 2013 & 2014).

“By achieving these awards in the Safety and Training categories it highlights to potential customers that David Jameson Roofing Services, working in one of the most dangerous types of construction related works, will offer a complete professional package.”

They are also the only company from Ireland to reach the finals of the 2016 Construction News Roofing Specialists Awards and face opposition from 8 mainland companies.

It would be a fantastic achievement to bring the award home, but either way the future of David Jameson Roofing looks secure for at least the next 30 years...

“By achieving these awards in the Safety and Training categories it highlights to potential customers that David Jameson Roofing Services, working in one of the most dangerous types of construction related works, will offer a complete professional package.” David Jameson

www.davidjamesonroofing.co.uk e: david@djrs.co.uk 286 Tandragee Road, Portadown, Co Armagh. BT62 3RB. Northern Ireland

T: 028 3833 9366

David Jameson |25

Your one stop shop for all your building & DIY needs Congratulations to valued customer David Jameson Roofing on reaching 30 years in business!

Follow us on:

• Balbriggan • Ballymount • Banbridge • Belfast (Castlereagh) • Belfast (Duncrue) • Belfast (Kennedy Way) • Derry • Dungannon • Newry • Newtownards • Lisburn • Murdock Roof Trusses • Cranwood Industries (Machined Timber)

For branch details visit murdockbuildersmerchants.com

26| roofing

Minster Roofing Product Guide for specialist insulation, dry lining, roofing and ceiling materials, the guide highlights Minster’s ongoing commitment of delivering quality solutions to the construction industry.

M

inster, part of the Saint-Gobain Group, has launched their biggest ever product guide

following a number of key changes in the market and strong customer demand.

As one of the UK’s most recognised distributors

Comprised of 316 pages, the fifth edition of the Guide offers over 9,000 product lines in one convenient place plus demonstrates the breadth and depth of the available range. It includes a much wider roofing offer along with fire protection, acoustics, external facades, thermal insulation, dry lining, ceilings, flooring and for the first time ever, My Comfort building solutions from Saint-Gobain. Working in collaboration with core suppliers, the guide has been developed to ensure customers have access to an extensive range of quality interior and exterior building solutions. Designed to give the best customer experience, the guide uses performance icons and supplier logos to provide an easy browsing process, while the inclusion of quick check lists in each section aims to help customer purchasing efficiency.

With the largest range available to date, roofing is a key area that has been significantly developed in the new guide, bringing more choice to the market. There is an expanded

range of commercial and domestic flat roofing solutions including torch on felt, single ply, breather membranes, lead, insulation and accessories. This has been incorporated to show Minster’s acknowledgement for key factors set to influence the market over the next few years. These include the impact of expected growth in the industrial, office, retail and leisure sectors as well as adhering to higher energy performance requirements across new and existing buildings driven by EU carbon reduction legislations.

Also included is the brand new launch of ‘My Comfort’; a higher building specification developed

by Saint-Gobain which aims to provide improved comfort factors for better health and well-being. In addition, it will significantly reduce energy consumption and on-going operational and maintenance costs through excellent thermal and acoustic properties, and reduced moisture. Minster stocks SaintGobain’s unique range of products, making them the UK’s leading distributor able to deliver simple to install solutions that can help to significantly improve building performance. The My Comfort concept delivers against five comfort factors including thermal, audio, visual, indoor and economic.

Cosy Roof picks up Marketing Award

T

he hottest marketing campaigns from every business sector were recognised at the 16th annual Marketing Excellence Ireland Awards 2015, which took place at Titanic Belfast. Cosy Roof won the Construction Category award.

Fourteen companies were honoured by CIM in a record-breaking year that saw more than 100 entries.

“As marketers, we have faced many challenges over the past few years; we have dealt with tight budgets, pressure on consumer spending and increased “buyer power”. This has meant that our profession has had to be more creative, agile and responsive to the market, and to embrace new technologies in order to win the support of our customers,” said Nick Read, Chair of the Ireland Board at CIM. “In Ireland, we have many examples of great marketing practice, from bespoke agencies and large marketing departments, to entrepreneurs who spot an opportunity and pursue it. These awards showcase the best marketing campaigns, shining a light on what we can achieve,” he added.

The winner of the CIM Marketing Excellence Ireland Awards 2015 for Construction, Engineering and other Manufacturing was Engage/Cosy Roof.

Philip Polly from Cosy Roof and Stephen Brennan from Engage are presented with the award by Oliver Greening from CIM.

28| Laydex

Building contractors, roofing contractors and architects can benefit from the expertise of Laydex (NI) Limited to take their roofing requirements to new heights.

Roofers Reach new heights with

Laydex T

he company’s roofing division is one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of waterproofing material, supplying brands such as AlkorPlan PVC membranes, Index bituminous felts and Pluvitec torch-on felts as well as liquid coating roof systems. In addition, Laydex has added quality German range Resitrix to this quality portfolio.

Resitrix is a patented 2.5mm heat weldable glass reinforced composite

rubber membrane with an EPDM core.

A look at the world-class manufacturers that Laydex represents perfectly illustrates why the company has such a strong reputation. Angela Frazer, Technical Sales Manager for the Laydex roofing division, explained how the company’s strength is providing reliable, tried and tested waterproofing solutions to the roofing industry.

“By combining competent roofing contractors with quality, reliable products provided by Laydex, we have delivered superior, innovative

projects to the client on time and within budget.

“As the construction industry now steams ahead, thankfully out of recession, Laydex are now increasingly involved in assisting main contractors with procurement and value engineering.

“We are extremely confident with our roofing product range and are constantly evolving with the demands of the industry.

“An example of this is the introduction of the AlkorGreen roof for sustainable projects. This has become one of our key areas, in

particular, within the health, education and social housing sectors. We partner with Larne company, Green Roofs Ireland, who locally grow seahardened, carbon neutral sedum mat for these eco roofs.”

This evolving product range meets the highest standards, with AlkorPlan and Resitrix achieving BREEAM A+ rating.

Angela added, “As well as this, because we have waterproofing, such as Renolit Alkor and the built up felt systems, we can provide the client with insurance backed guarantees up to 25 years, with a life expectancy of

Laydex |29

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The fact that Laydex has completed a number of notable projects reflects the company’s enviable reputation. This includes Titanic Belfast, where AlkorPlan membranes and laminated metal was used to form the complicated design of the cascading gutter system

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working on larger commercial projects as we are on domestic homes,” added Angela.

However, it is the importance of strong partnerships that Laydex sees as an essential element of the company’s success.

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30| Fold Housing Association Sod cutting Rathgill Group

Land, Design and Build Anita Conway, director of development at Fold Housing Association, talks to Specify about the innovative ‘Land, Design and Build’ initiative the organisation has been successfully pioneering in Northern Ireland.

T

he last few years have forced us, and indeed the whole construction industry, to look outside the box in order to react to procurement challenges and restrictions.

As a housing association we have found it harder to acquire new sites in the face of a rising market.

Those who would usually sell are now holding on to their land in the hope of securing higher prices.

Unfortunately this is coinciding with a time when demand for social housing is increasing across Northern Ireland.

The Net Stock Model points to the need for 1200 affordable homes to be built each year. However with increasing demands it has been accepted that the target should rise by 800 annually and so associations are tasked with an increased delivery of new homes.

Under the traditional approach a Housing Association delivers new build housing having separately acquired land, procured a design team, secured approvals and then

procured a building contractor to undertake the construction works – an approach which is resource intensive for associations.

In order to address this potential problem and continue to meet growing demand we looked into pioneering a ‘Competitive Land, Design and Build’ initiative which would give local builders the

opportunity to get involved in housing projects from the very beginning.

We were the first social housing organisation to trial a scheme of this nature in Ireland with a 41 unit development on Ravenhill Avenue in Belfast, working in partnership with a private developer, Kevin Watson Construction. The tender set out

(L-R) Luke Turley of St Michaels PS; Junior Minister Michelle McIlveen; John McLean, Fold Chief Executive and Weronika Moraz of Euston Street PS.

the Employers Requirements for a provision of social housing units in a defined location – in this case East Belfast – and the minimum design requirements of the information sought from the developer as part of the developer’s proposals.

The developer’s proposals included title and planning details of the land, the developer’s design and its fixed price. This system allowed us to provide new homes in East Belfast, an area where there is extremely limited land supply but high housing demand for all tenures. We were able to revitalise and regenerate a derelict site and provide new family homes, following an investment of over £4.5m.

Through this procurement route the builder can provide maximum input into the design in terms of buildability and value engineering at the earliest possible stage. This is something that has not always been possible with the traditional procurement systems.

The process has been streamlined and is very efficient, particularly considering that the scope of the

Fold Housing Association |31 Land, Design and Build is extensive.

The builder provides the land, the design, obtains planning and other statutory requirements and builds the project out to completion.

The success of our first trial led to its expansion into the North West of Northern Ireland, where Fold Housing Association together with the support of the Department for Social Development (DSD) and the NI Housing Executive (NIHE) backed the initiative. Braidwater assumed responsibility for the site acquisition, design and construction of the multimillion pound housing project.

The £7m development at Skeoge in Derry-Londonderry brought our total investment in the area to almost £40m in the last five years.

The 70 new homes will sit alongside an already established Fold scheme in Glenabbey, where there are 280 families settled in a well planned development with a playpark and extensive open space.

Skeoge is only the second of its kind to be procured in Northern Ireland. The developer enters into a contract with the Association at the inception of the project and this provides a mechanism to access funding and give the developer a secured sale. Staged payments throughout the process help to support cash flow for the developer and improve viability.

Forkhill, Armagh

This additional procurement method has helped to ‘free up’ some of these opportunities and we are very proud to be able to deliver much needed homes to this area.

Following the success of this scheme we have been able to secure another 13 unit Land, Design and Build project in East Belfast and aim to issue further projects in Bangor and Belfast.

We believe that as we prove this is an effective and efficient method, more builders will be interested in

Homes in construction in Ravenhill Avenue under the ‘Land, Design and Build’ initiative.

“We were the first social housing organisation to trial a scheme of this nature in ireland with a 41 unit development on ravenhill avenue in BELFAST, WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH A PRIVATE DEVELOPER.” working in partnerships through design and build. Developers can maximise the full potential of their site and in turn housing associations can deliver more homes. It also provides a platform for us to work collaboratively with a range of developers to continually improve the design and quality of our new homes.

The process will involve some tendering but this is kept to a minimum and the process is quick.

In addition we are able to run a tender process and select more than one successful builder from one competition. This increases the efficiency of our procurement and

reduces the potential for builders incurring unsuccessful costs during the tender process. Fold has worked hard to ensure that we eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy and streamline all our development process. In both Ravenhill and Skeoge we were able to be in contract within four months of the process commencing.

With an annual construction programme of 300 new units we are certainly open for business and looking forward to working with developers and builders, expanding our partnership base whilst delivering high quality, affordable new homes for all.

digest

32|

WorldSkills Construction winners are recognised at Stormont reception

Pictured are Gary Doyle, SRC, Adrian Canning, NWRC, Minister Farry, Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITB NI, Chris Bailie, SERC and Jonathon Gill CAFRE at the WorldSkills Stormont reception hosted

by Minister Farry.

Employment & Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry hosted a reception at Stormont to honour Northern Ireland’s outstanding success at the recent WorldSkills competition in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The Minister congratulated the seven Northern Ireland competitors,

four of whom represented construction sectors which achieved Northern Ireland’s best ever WorldSkills result winning a gold medal, two silver medals, a bronze medal and a medallion for excellence representing over forty per cent of the overall UK medal haul.

Representing construction Gary

Doyle, Southern Regional College, won a gold medal in plumbing, Chris Bailie, South Eastern Regional College, won a silver medal in refrigeration. Jonathan Gill, formerly of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, won a silver medal in landscape gardening and Adrian Canning, formerly of North West Regional College, won a medallion for excellence in electrical installation.

Speaking about their success the Minister said: “These young people deserve the highest praise for being selected to represent the UK in their particular skill on the world stage. They have proven that they are world class at what they do and should be rightly proud of themselves for competing against the best of the best from across the globe. This is an outstanding achievement not only for the young people, but also for their families, employers and trainers who have supported them throughout their training and during WorldSkills.

Without your commitment to these young people we wouldn’t

see success on the scale we are celebrating this evening.”

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive of CITB NI said: “I would like to extend our congratulations to the Northern Ireland representation in WorldSkills Team UK in particular those representing construction trades all of which have come through the Skillbuild NI competition and have won medals showcasing their skills in their trade on both a regional and national level. This level of training through the college network and recognition through Skillbuild NI has allowed the competitors to further their skills in order to compete at World level. Skills are a key driver of growth, performance and prosperity and even more important now as the construction industry is finally experiencing shoots of growth after several tough years in economic decline. We at CITB NI are proud that through our Skillbuild NI competition we have helped train our young people to not only be the best in their trade but also the best in the world.”

“Water Team” scoop major environmental “Green Apple” award NI Water recently scooped a prestigious international “Green Apple” environmental award in recognition of their work to construct an Integrated Construction Wetland (ICW) for wastewater treatment in Stoneyford, near Lisburn, Co Antrim.

This award was a 1st prize, Gold Award for Carbon reduction for the Stoneyford Project, showing the advantages of an Integrated Constructed Wetland solution. It was recognised to have a positive contribution to the local community and an enhancement to the local ecosystem.

The Green Apple organisation is an international non-profit environmental group, encouraging the industry to highlight best practice around the world, sharing ideas and promoting sustainable development. The award ceremony took place at the Houses of Parliament, Westminster.

The Stoneyford site will be a flagship project for NI Water to produce an industry-leading example of how wastewater treatment can be integrated into and complement the local ecosystem.

The ICW method also has a proven track record with cost savings, low energy and low maintenance compared with traditional solutions. This environmentally-friendly solution is particularly suited to rural areas and will be built to accommodate the future wastewater needs of the village.

Sara Venning NI Water CEO said: “We at NI Water are delighted to win this major environmental award, which is a great opportunity to showcase the Stoneyford project amongst the best environmental projects in the world.

“The existing wastewater treatment works in the village was nearing the end of its useful life and needed to be replaced, so NI Water invested

Pictured with the award are (L-R) Derek Crabbe, Dermott McCurdy, Sara Venning and Bill Gowdy from NI Water.

approximately £1m to develop this wetland, which is an important step towards the development of more environmentally – sustainable solutions throughout Northern Ireland.

“The ICW solution has been developed from natural concepts and has been used for many years throughout Europe and the Republic of Ireland.”

The contractor for the Stoneyford project was Maghera-based BSG Civil Engineering, with Belfast-based White Young Green providing design and technical support.

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34| CITB NI

Leaders in Construction – Developing Tomorrows’ Leaders Today Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITBNI, launches the Leader in Construction Initiative

T

he muchanticipated ‘Leader in Construction’ programme was launched recently by CITB NI. Representatives from industry, sponsors, and potential participants attended the event which unveiled the detail behind the programme for emerging leaders in the local construction industry.

Launching the event, Stephen Kane, Chair of the Construction Industry

Group, said: ‘This initiative is vital to ensure that the construction industry moves forward in these challenging times. Strong leadership is critical to ensure that companies grow and respond effectively to the challenges of the future. Many Northern Ireland construction companies are working outside NI and this requires vision, and a different set of skills. For the smaller companies coming behind them, it is essential that they grasp the opportunities open to them and grow and expand locally to fill the gap left by those whose main business is Lyndsey Spence of H+J Martin and Karen Fullerton of Portview Universal Fit Out Specialists.

now outside Northern Ireland. This programme will give emerging leaders the skills and confidence to achieve their own and their companies’ goals and will ensure a strong base for the future of the construction industry in Northern Ireland’.

This substantially-funded pilot leadership development programme is suitable for those next in line for a senior management position, or with the potential to become senior managers, within local NI construction businesses. No formal qualifications are required for entry Graham Brown of Patrick Bradley Ltd. and John McLaughlin of T. McLaughlin and Sons.

and the programme is designed to be equally suitable for high potential candidates from both large organisations and family businesses.

The programme is delivered by Parity Professionals and is sponsored

by Specify Magazine, Tughans, and Farrans.

The programme is tailored to the construction sector and will assist the industry to meet current and future challenges. It will develop the strategic and leadership behaviours required at a senior level for both small or family run businesses

CITB NI |35

Bryan Vaughan, Vaughan Developments Ltd. with David Little and Mark Gilmore of CIOB.

Scott Bell of MSN, with Martin McErlean and Lorcan Hegarty of Marcon Fit Out Ltd.

Ian Lowry, Lowry Bros; Maurice Johnston, CITBNI; Maria Bradley, Gilbert-Ash Ltd.; Stephen Kane, CIG; David McComb, Parity Professionals; Barry Neilson, CITBNI; and Jim Leitch, Northstone.

Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITBNI; Tim Kinney, Tughans; John Wilson, Farrans; Siobhan McGuinness, Specify Magazine; Michael McCord, Tughans; and Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITBNI.

Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITBNI; John Wilson, Farrans; and Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITBNI.

and large multi-nationals and will help build leadership capability within participating companies and individuals.

Companies will benefit from leaders equipped with the skills to increase sales and market share, analyse environmental conditions and set strategic direction with better connections both locally and at European level.

Participants will develop the ability to deliver improved results, respond strategically to an ever-changing environment, manage significant budgets and complex projects. They will create a plan for their future

career and for the businesses they operate in.

‘Leader in Construction’ will be of equal benefit to those who entered the industry as technical graduates, those who entered at craft level and have moved to a management position, and those who entered as family members of owner / operator businesses. The programme includes 360° assessment, practical workshops, coaching and a two-day European study visit.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI said: ‘The construction industry has suffered from poor press coverage and a lowering of

David McComb, Parity Professionals

Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITBNI; Tim Kinney, Tughans; Michael McCord, Tughans; and Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITBNI.

the perception of what it is to be a construction professional. It is time for us to build a new image of our sector - to build an image of professionalism, competence and quality. Strong leadership and management skills are vital to this and to achieving sustained economic growth. The construction industry is starting to show signs of economic improvement and businesses need to be able to respond effectively to the ever changing needs of the sector.

This programme will help individuals and companies to develop leadership

skills which in turn will help develop the leadership quality within the industry as a whole.”

‘Leader in Construction’ will commence in February 2016. If you have a high potential candidate in your organisation who would benefit from this programme, or if you want to gain the right skills to elevate your career, and company, to the next level, then visit www.citbni.org.uk for more information and to submit an application form. Alternatively e-mail leaderinconstruction@citbni.org.uk for more information.

‘“The construction industry has suffered from poor press coverage and a lowering of the perception of what it is to be a construction professional. It is time for us to build a new image of our sector - to build an image of professionalism, competence and quality”.

digest

36|

Half of local construction firms’ work now outside of Northern Ireland Nearly half of all work being done by local building firms is now outside of Northern Ireland, according to the latest RICS and Tughans Construction Market Survey.

The lack of a significant recovery in construction activity within Northern Ireland has seen many local companies seeking work in Great Britain in particular.

Overall, the workloads of Northern Ireland construction surveyors increased in the final quarter of last year (+11), according to the survey, but at a significantly slower rate than in all other UK regions.

Private housing (+31) was the one area of construction where Northern Ireland respondents saw a significant increase in activity, with all other areas either falling, flat or experiencing modest growth.

Infrastructure activity (-25) fell significantly in the final three months of the year, according to surveyors, making it the ninth consecutive quarter in which surveyors reported falling or flat infrastructure workloads.

RICS Northern Ireland spokesman, Jim Sammon, says: “All four quarters of 2015 saw growth in overall

Michael McCord

Northern Ireland construction workloads, but this was from a low base, and in each quarter the rate of growth was significantly lagging other UK regions. One key trend has been the rising amount of work being done by local firms outside of Northern Ireland, particularly in Scotland and England, where there has been much more robust construction growth. In some respects this is a positive story, demonstrating the competitiveness and excellence of our construction businesses. However, we want to see workloads within Northern Ireland increasing as well, particularly in infrastructure.”

Jim Sammon

“Investing in infrastructure is a crucial part of rebalancing and growing the economy. We need better roads and railways, schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure to meet our sustainable energy needs.

A lot of our existing infrastructure is aging and in need of replacement, and we would strongly encourage the policy makers to take a strategic view in relation to where best public money should be spent to make the most positive impact for the economy and society,” he continues.

Michael McCord, Construction Partner, Tughans Solicitors, says: “With construction activity in GB forging

ahead, and the Irish Government having announced a capital plan worth €27bn over the next six years, those Northern Ireland construction businesses working outside the region will have cause for optimism regarding the outlook.

The outlook within Northern Ireland is perhaps less positive. However, it is vitally important that all efforts are made to invest in and improve our infrastructure to support the development of the local economy.”

Jim Sammon adds: “Government needs to create the conditions to grow jobs and business, including attracting inward investment, through for example, strengthening support for Invest NI to ensure that they have the resources to market our changed position on corporation tax. More jobs in Northern Ireland will create demand for construction activity at home.”

In relation to work outside of Northern Ireland, the average respondent is doing around 43% of their work outside of Northern Ireland. A net balance of 33% of contributors expect their workloads outside Northern Ireland to rise further over the coming quarter.

Combilift scoops Irish Exporter of the Year award for a second time The Irish Exporters Association (IEA), the voice of the export industry in Ireland, announced Combilift as the Exporter of the Year 2015 at the Export Industry Awards which were held recently in Dublin. This is the second time the award was scooped by Combilift as it won the same accolade in 2008 as an SME. Monaghan-based Combilift developed the world’s first IC enginepowered all-wheel-drive multidirectional forklift and today exports its wide range of handling products to over 75 countries and employs 400 people from Monaghan and the surrounding counties. Sales in the period from 2012 to 2014 rose by 48%, underlining the company’s almost unprecedented success in its industry sector.

Speaking at the Awards Ceremony, Hugh Kelly, President of the Irish Exporters Association said: “We are delighted to announce Combilift as the winner of the overall Exporter of the Year 2015. Since it was established in 1998 by Martin McVicar and Robert Moffett, Combilift has grown to become a global leader in its field. The standard of Pictured are (L-R): Michael Treanor, John O’Hora, Martin McVicar, Managing Director; Noel O’Dowd, and Anthony Rooney (all from Combilift), winners of the Exporter of the Year Award.

Award entrants this year was higher than ever before but our judges were struck by the energy, ability and ambition of Combilift’s management and employees to deliver strong results, year after year. They commended the continuous innovation evident in the company’s product range, its standards of excellence in manufacturing and its contribution as a substantial employer in the Monaghan region. We wish Combilift every success in the years to come.”

38|

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Ask An Architect initiative launched

Photo: Sam Sills White of Dog Photography.

On the weekend of the 16th/17th April 2016 chartered architects in every corner of Northern Ireland will be opening their offices to volunteer their time and expertise to help raise funds for cancer research.

The Ask An Architect initiative will give members of the public the opportunity to get expert advice from a chartered architect on building projects of all shapes and sizes.

For an hour long consultation people will be asked to make a £40 charitable donation to the Jill Todd Trust which was set up to commemorate Jill whose life was taken by cancer. Jill was 23 and the daughter of local architect Barrie Todd (both pictured).

The Trust will present all funds raised through Ask An Architect to the Cancer Research Centre, Belfast via its affiliated charity the Friends of the Cancer Centre.

The initiative is being organised by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA), PLACE – The Architecture Centre and the Jill Todd Trust.

An online booking system is being set up which will allow you to select the architect and the particular time slot of that weekend that suits you best. The booking system will go live around six weeks ahead of the Ask An Architect weekend. To make sure you get first pick, follow the organisers on Twitter and Facebook.

Any architects who want to register their interest in volunteering for the Ask An Architect initiative or any other organisations that would like to support the initiative should contact Ciarán Fox, Director of RSUA, at ciaran@rsua.org.uk.

Watch out for the next edition which will give more details such as how to make an appointment online and the the choice of architects in your area.

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

FEDERATION CONTINUES ITS HIGH LEVEL POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT A delegation from the Federation, led by President Rhona Quinn, met with senior Sinn Fein representatives in early December at Stormont.

A number of key items were discussed as we build towards the next Northern Ireland Assembly election in May. These included: • The impact of the new social clause proposals; • The Executive’s capital budget for the rest of the decade; • The performance of local councils in respect of their new planning powers and; • Sub-economic tendering

NEW CDM REGULATIONS TO BE INTRODUCED IN 2016 HSENI have confirmed that the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations Northern Ireland 2007 will be replaced. Whilst there are still a number of technical issues to resolve, it is expected the new Regulations will come into operation in summer/autumn 2016.

The new Regulations, which will be known as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016, are closely aligned to the corresponding Great Britain Regulations which came into force on 6 April 2015.

HSENI have also confirmed that the former GB Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) no longer has “approved” status in Northern Ireland, but the text of that ACoP is the standard to which HSENI will expect industry to perform in the period during which CDMNI 2007 remains in place.

The development of an ACoP to accompany the new GB Regulations is still under consideration. If HSE GB introduces a new ACoP, HSENI will give consideration to whether it should be approved for use in Northern Ireland. However if GB ACoP is not developed HSENI will not produce an NI specific document due to budgetary constraints.

CONSTRUCTION MANIFESTO LAUNCHED AHEAD OF 2016 ASSEMBLY ELECTION

T

he Construction Employers Federation launched its 2016 Manifesto, which sets out a series of recommendations ahead of the May 2016 Assembly election, in early December.

Launched at a briefing event at the CEF’s Belfast headquarters, the Manifesto calls on the next Northern Ireland Executive to work together to develop and deliver a number of key projects, which CEF Managing Director, John Armstrong, said will be crucial to the long term sustainability and success of the construction industry in Northern Ireland.

The Manifesto sets out a series of key recommendations across a number of core areas, including: • The need for political stability and a renewed commitment to the complete delivery of the Stormont House and Fresh Start agreements; • Agree a draft Programme for Government for public consultation by the end of May 2016; • Create an entirely new public sector procurement and delivery agency by the end of 2017; • Lay before the Assembly a quarterly report on the

procurement pipeline by autumn 2016; • Proceed with caution, better recognising industry concerns, in respect of social clauses and Project Bank Accounts; • Deliver the skills critical employer-led apprenticeship model as well as ringfence the money raised through the Apprenticeships Levy for apprenticeships; • By May 2021, complete the York Street Interchange as well as make significant progress on the A6/M2 and A5 schemes; • Agree a multi-year road maintenance budget; • Build on the work of the Housing Supply Forum by taking a number of steps to unlock housebuilding and; • Take forward a range of measures to grow the level of finance available for capital investment by the Executive including: the Northern Ireland Investment Fund; agreeing with local councils an amount of borrowing that they would each put towards investment and; introducing separate domestic water charges.

Speaking at the event, Mr Armstrong said: “The construction industry will be the bedrock of Northern Ireland’s future economic growth. A vibrant, modern, dynamic and growing industry is one that can enhance Northern Ireland’s global competitiveness – and it is that ambitious vision that we believe the Executive must achieve over the coming five-year term and beyond.

“The 2016 Assembly election comes at a critical time in Northern Ireland’s history. The entire business community sees political stability as vital to our medium to long term economic prospects. Our industry wants devolution to work and it wants to see the next Executive take a much more strategic and ‘outcome’ focused approach, setting ambitious yet deliverable targets for the economy.

“Our manifesto for the coming Assembly election sets out how we believe the next Executive can make good on this vision. We stand ready to be a critical friend to the new Executive and we look forward to engaging with all parties over the coming months on the platform for growth we have laid out.”

According to Mr Armstrong, the launch of the Manifesto comes as the construction industry prepares to embrace the many challenges that 2016 will bring. “The last eight years have undoubtedly been the most difficult in the long history of Northern Ireland’s construction industry,” he said.

“From the high-point of 2008 the level of construction activity in Northern Ireland fell by nearly 40%. This catastrophic scenario also came at huge personal cost to the approximately 26,000 people who lost their jobs during the downturn.

“While the last two years have witnessed a rise in cautious optimism, many challenges remain. From continued restraint in public spending to meeting our new housing needs to the skills shortages that the industry faces, there is an urgent need for the next Northern Ireland Executive to take pro-active steps to make sure the industry is prepared for the future and drive Northern Ireland’s economic recovery.”

A full copy of the Manifesto is available via davidf@cefni.co.uk

NI EXECUTIVE AGREES ITS 2016/17 BUDGET June’s monitoring round; • £50m of capital funding for shared education and shared housing projects will be retained by the Department of Finance until appropriate schemes have been identified; • £57.8m of Financial Transactions Capital has now been allocated – £11m to the Department from Communities, £30.8m to the Department for Economy being the main allocations. The remaining balance, £55.8m, will be rolled into the Northern Ireland Investment Fund; • In respect of the Investment Fund, a feasibility study has now concluded and the next steps include developing detailed policy proposals for the Fund structure, the Fund Investment Strategy and Fund governance arrangements.

The intention is that the Fund will provide loan, equity or mezzanine finance to viable local private sector projects that cannot obtain funding from commercial sources. The Fund will focus on projects in four sectors: urban regeneration including Grade A office space; energy and energy efficiency; telecoms and; social housing. A Fund manager procurement process will commence in early 2016/17, with this expected to take six months. The Fund should be operational shortly thereafter. Although its funding pot is expected to grow, some £100m of Financial Transactions Capital has already been earmarked for the Fund – £55.8m in 2016/17 and the balance in later years.

J

ust before Christmas, the Northern Ireland Executive agreed a one year budget for 2016-17. Although each of the nine new Executive departments has yet to agree the detailed breakdown of its expenditure, some of the key headlines from the statement include: • According to the document, Phase 1 of the A5 scheme (which will also receive £75m over three years from the Irish Government) will ‘commence as soon as the planning issues have been resolved’; • The A6 funding is expected to be directed towards, initially, the Randalstown to Castledawson dualling, followed by the Dungiven bypass; • £20m of Resource expenditure and £46m of Capital expenditure in 2016/17 for roads structural maintenance; • £25m set aside for the public sector voluntary exit scheme in 2016/17 is now not expected to be used. This will be instead used to fund capital projects. A further £57m from the voluntary exit scheme will be reallocated in

At the start of December, the CEF engaged with officials from the Department of Finance and Personnel in respect of the budget proposals.

While we were able to welcome much of what was indicated by officials, included the Executive’s renewed commitment to funding the A5 and A6/ M2 road schemes, the Integrated Transport Hub in Belfast and the Northern Ireland Community Safety College in the coming years, we expressed concern that the investment critical York Street Interchange scheme appeared to have been downgraded in priority. We also took the opportunity to detail the need for more clarity over next year’s road maintenance budget and the need for this to be set on a multi-year format.

As a follow up to the meeting, we have since written to all Executive Ministers expressing the industry’s strong support for taking York Street forward as well as calling for a renewed commitment by the Executive to the delivery of the new DARD Headquarters at Ballykelly.

For further information please contact David Fry on 028 9087 7143 or davidf@cefni.co.uk.

CEF RESPONDS TO COMPREHENSIVE SPENDING REVIEW

I

n initial response to the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement and Comprehensive Spending Review for 2016-20, John Armstrong, Managing Director of the CEF (pictured) said: On the public expenditure envelope to 2020, Mr Armstrong said: “The increases forecast in Northern Ireland’s capital budget over the rest of the decade, while welcome, do not appear to be as significant as earlier projections had suggested.

The £1.2bn forecast for 2018/19 falls well below the 2007/08 peak of £1.55bn for instance. Continued restraint in public expenditure must therefore entail the taking of smarter decisions by the Executive

in terms of where its money can reap best economic gain.”

On the 2016/17 budget and capital expenditure priorities: “As an immediate outcome of today’s statement by the Chancellor, it is vital that the Northern Ireland Executive speedily addresses its 2016/17 budget.

To give the industry certainty as to how the Executive plans to spend its resources it is imperative that a budget is agreed for the next financial year well in advance of its start.

“While May’s Assembly election means that the current Executive intends to only set a one year budget, we hope that Ministers will at this stage commit themselves to funding major infrastructure projects that will be delivered over several years. These should include, but not be limited to,

the York Street Interchange, the A5, the A6/M2 schemes and the Great Victoria Street Integrated Transport Hub. In addition, the Executive must address the road maintenance budget that has been so drastically underfunded in thedelighted current financial e were to host an informal members’ dinner year.” with the Department for Regional Development

Permanent Secretary, Peter May, at the Federation office On housebuilding, Mr in October.

Armstrong said: “Today’s Key items discussed included the Department’s budget and infrastructure announcements onofhousebuilding, plans, the creation a new Department of Infrastructure and sewer and while primarily water bonds. geared towards the English market, must not betolost in Mr May has committed a further dialogue on infrastructure planning Northern Ireland.

It is no secret that for the next Northern Ireland Assembly mandate while specific issues of we have a to significant under-supply relevance house builders will beoftaken up directly with Departmental new housing locally and the Executive Ireland’s budget and we would officials. must do everything it can to seek urge theevents Executive earmark The dinner was the first in a series of informal with to Departmental to rectify this where feasible. some thecoming moneymonths. towards Permanent Secretaries whichThe will take place overofthe finance announced by the please Chancellor innovative schemes that could For further information contact David Fry: davidf@cefni.co.uk or today9087 will have unlock housebuilding in Northern 028 7143.a limited Barnett consequential impact on Northern Ireland.”

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THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

CEF REPRESENTED AT THE BUILDHEALTH STEERING GROUP The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) recently attended the Buildhealth Steering Group meeting. Buildhealth is a joint venture between the construction industry and HSENI. The initiative aims to improve awareness of health issues in construction and how they can be managed effectively.

The steering group heard from a representative of the “Drink, work & me” initiative. The lottery funded project involving Business in the Community, FASA, AddictionNI and the Social Research Centre aims to raise awareness of the impact of alcohol by offering information and support. Part of the service involves providing alcohol awareness training in the workplace and a business toolkit to support employers and their employees.

Further information is available on the website www.drinkworkandme. com. More information on Buildhealth is available on the website http://buildhealthni.com/

THE NATIONAL LIVING WAGE AND THE IMPLICATIONS FOR AUTO-ENROLMENT

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rom April 2016, the Government will introduce a new mandatory National Living Wage (NLW) for workers aged 25 and above.

The NLW will initially be set at £7.20 per hour which is 50p more than the National Minimum Wage (NMW) of £6.70 that took effect on 1 October 2015.

This means a £900 per annum increase in earnings for a full-time worker on the current NMW who is working 35 hours a week.

The NMW will still apply for workers aged 24 and under.

In addition to increasing the wage bill for many employers, the NLW will affect automatic enrolment to pension schemes in two ways: • An increase in those who have to be automatically enrolled into a qualifying pension scheme • Extra employer workplace pension contributions The Office for Budget Responsibility expects that, by 2020, the NLW will be at a premium of 13% to the NMW (£8.25 NMW vs £9.35 NLW).

Therefore, if the automatic enrolment threshold is £10,000 per annum, anyone earning between £8,850 and £9,999 who receives the 13% premium will move above the threshold and will have to be automatically enrolled into their employer’s workplace pension scheme (provided the employer has reached their staging date and the worker is otherwise eligible).

Meets the auto-enrolment requirements and is available to all employees in the construction industry, including office based staff, enabling you to use one scheme for the entire workforce. www.enhancepensionscheme.co.uk

A basic workplace pension scheme designed to complement Enhance alllowing employers to meet their auto-enrolment needs including any non-construction related areas of businesses.

UPDATE FROM CIVIL ENGINEERING CLIENTS The Civil Engineering Consultative Committee (CECC) met in early December to discuss construction programmes and procurement.

The CECC brings together the Construction Employers Federation Civil Engineering Committee and the civil engineering clients including TransportNI, NI Water, Rivers Agency and Translink. The Central Procurement Directorate and the Strategic Investment Board are also represented at the committee.

At this meeting each of the main civil engineering clients provided an updated report on its budget and programme.

To see the full reports please email David Fry at davidf@cefni.co.uk

www.workerspensiontrust.co.uk

CEF QUIZZES OFFICIALS ON HOUSING GROWTH INDICATOR REVIEW

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he Construction Employers Federation (CEF) recently met with officials from the Regional Planning Branch of the Department for Regional Development (DRD) to discuss the ongoing review of the Housing Growth Indicators (HGIs).

The HGIs, which are an estimate of the new dwelling requirements broken down by Council areas, were most recently published in the Regional Development Strategy 2008-2025. At that time it was estimated approximately 190,000 new dwellings were required over the 17 year period which equates to approximately 11,200 houses per year. Given that last year the total number of new dwelling was approximately 5,500 there has been a significantly lower number of dwellings constructed than suggested by the HGI’s in the last seven years.

It is assumed that the HGIs will be revised downward however CEF argued that assuming 1% of the current total housing stock of 730,000 needs replaced annually, there is a requirement for over 7,000 dwellings per year in order to remain at the current levels. Coupled with demographic changes it is likely that around 10,000 dwellings are required annually. As the HGIs will be used by the local councils to inform their local development plans CEF is keen to ensure the HGI’s are not unnecessarily low.

A steering group of public sector bodies are currently reviewing the proposed HGI figures and it is likely the councils will be asked to review in early January 2016.

It was agreed that once Councils had viewed the figures a further meeting would be arranged so CEF could gain access to and question the proposed revised figures.

WASTE WATER TREATMENT WORKS CAPACITY ISSUES undertook to further investigate headroom capacity across their WWTW network.

This work has now been completed and the update list shows that, of the 251 WWTW with a population equivalent of greater than 250: • 23 have no headroom and have not been identified for upgrade during PC15 period; • 11 have capacity issues but have been proposed for upgrade. Approval is restricted until contract award; • 30 will be assessed on application i.e. they have significantly limited capacity and the proposed size of any development will influence the outcome of the recommendation to the planning authority; • 187 have headroom capacity.

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I Water have provided an updated list of Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs) that have reached full capacity but have not been allocated funding to increase their capacity during the current price control period PC15. PC15 runs from 2015 to 2021.

This issue was initially raised in November 2014 when NI Water identified 77 WWTWs that were expected to reach capacity at some stage during the funding period but only 19 had been approved for an upgrade. Following discussions with the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), NI Water

The consequence of not upgrading the infrastructure could be that when a planning application is submitted for new houses, shops, offices or factories etc in one of the affected areas, NI Water will have to notify the planning authority that they could not authorise any further increase in discharge of sewerage to the WWTW without a remedial upgrade.

NI Water has been asked to provide a geographical representation of the information to clearly identify the areas where development will be curtailed.

CEF will also be raising the issues with the relevant councils to ensure they are aware of the information when compiling their Local Development Plans.

BUSINESS LEADERSHIP PROGRAMMES AT THE WILLIAM CLINTON LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

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he Construction Employers Federation (CEF) previously announced that the William J Clinton Leadership Institute is pleased to offer CEF members a 10% preferential discount on all of their open programmes; Business Leaders, Emerging Leaders and Leading Effective Boards. Fuller detail on each programme is below.

• Business Leaders programme is targeted at senior leaders/Managers, Directors and CEOs. The programme is a challenging learning experience bringing together the latest thinking and understanding of leadership behaviours, strategy implementation, innovation and change. One-toOne Executive Coaching, with an experienced coach is also included in the programme. For more information on Business Leaders

Bill Clinton

programme, please see: http://www. leadershipinstitute.co.uk/schools/ LeadershipInstitute/OpenProgrammes/ BusinessLeadersProgramme/ • Emerging Leaders programme is focused on developing high potential, talented individuals for wider, more strategic positions.

The programme is focused on responding to the key challenges facing emerging leaders. One of the critical aspects of this programme, for the participant and the sponsoring organisation is the completion of a strategic project which is workbased and is designed to accelerate learning, build profile and enhance career development. One-toOne Executive Coaching, with an experienced coach is also included in the programme. For further information on the Emerging Leaders programme, please see: http://www. leadershipinstitute.co.uk/schools/ LeadershipInstitute/OpenProgrammes/ EmergingLeadersProgramme/ • Leading Effective Boards programme introduces the principles of good governance. It focuses on the leadership competencies required to achieve excellence in

practice for a company board or a collaborative partnership. This programme is structured around six three-hour workshop sessions using a blend of action learning techniques including presentations, case studies, self-assessment exercises and group work. For further information on the Leading Effective Boards programme, please see: http://www. leadershipinstitute.co.uk/schools/ LeadershipInstitute/OpenProgrammes/ LeadingEffectiveBoards/ Further information can be accessed for the programmes outlined, and other courses, via the links above to the Leadership Institute website, including dates, brochures and application forms.

To contact the William J Clinton Leadership Institute, call 028 9097 4394, email: leadershipinstitute@qub. ac.uk or visit their website: www.leadershipinstitute.co.uk

The Construction Employers Federation is responsible for supplying the editorial content of the CEF News section. The Federation does not purport to have any editorial input to the remainder of Specify magazine.

143 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6SU

•

Tel: 028 9087 7143

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Fax: 028 9087 7155

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www.cefni.co.uk

44| Creagh Concrete Manchester Metropolitan University

Seamus McKeague

Creagh Concrete looking forward with new contracts, jobs and investment plans

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reagh Concrete has announced its most successful year since the downturn in 2008. In addition, the company also created more than 100 new jobs in 2015.

The Toomebridge-based concrete products manufacturer, is on course to complete various significant projects over the next year, such as a £12m contract for the Dandara Apartment complex in Aberdeen. The

Windsor Walk Arches, London

company is also working on a range of projects across the UK, such as a £3m flooring project at the new Ulster University campus, a £2.1m car park in Leeds and a £1m new school project in London. It will also announce further infrastructure and construction projects in the coming months.

Furthermore, the company has presented measured growth plans to its staff across Northern Ireland, England and Scotland. 80% of the company’s turnover relates to

projects outside Northern Ireland.

As part of its strategic objectives, the business will invest considerably across its multiple sites in the coming five years, with plans for further job creation as the business continues to grow.

The Managing Director, Seamus McKeague, said these are exciting times at Creagh Concrete; “Like many companies, Creagh has not been immune to the ongoing worldwide economic problems, but over the past year we have looked at

Dandara Apartment complex

every aspect of the company and implemented significant change with a view to building a business with a positive future. We now look forward with real optimism for future opportunities with a corporate sense of sustainability and strategic growth.”

Creagh Concrete has a number of specialist divisions working within each sector of the construction industry. The company’s core product range is precast products and prestressed flooring, with an extensive range of flooring systems designed for commercial or residential applications.

The company employs 650 full time staff and sub-contractors, across its seven locations, and will complete over 3,000 contracts of varying sizes in 2015.

Seamus McKeague said the Scottish Dandara project is a taste of further major projects to come.

“It’s a real achievement to complete this contract consisting of 380 luxury apartments within four tower blocks on Stoneywood Estate. This residential scheme was a major logistical exercise with Creagh undertaking design, manufacture, delivery and installation. The project used nearly 11,000 tons of brick and acid etched panels manufactured in our Toomebridge facility and 24,500m2 of flooring from our Ardboe factory. It was all shipped to Aberdeen on a “just in time” delivery sequence and we will complete the project on time and on budget..”

Willis |45

Employment Practices Liability: Be Prepared

By David Workman, Broking Director, 02890329042

E

mployment-related legal actions are a growing concern for employers of all sizes.

As costs for litigation and damage awards climb, experts predict that employment liability will only become more complex. As a result, it is critical for employers to understand their exposures and options to manage the risk.

Two effective risk management strategies include solid human resources practices and employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) cover, a policy used to cover your risk due to the ever-changing legal and employment environment.

Insurance Solution Employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) works hand-in-hand with your employment practices to provide the necessary resources to defend your company against

a legal action or to pay a claim. To best understand how to cover your EPLI risk, it’s important to know the potential sources: • Working time directives • Discrimination (race, gender, religious belief, age, disability, etc) • Equal pay • Actual or alleged wrongful dismissal or termination • Wrongful failure to employ or promote • Wrongful discipline EPLI will provide cover for damages, judgements, settlements and defence costs in respect of claims from present and past employees for a wide range of entity employment practice violations.

It is vital you engage with the Insurer’s nominated legal advice team as soon as you commence your formal written grievance procedure and not wait until you receive a formal claim by way of an ET1 form or Solicitors letter. This is the only way Insurers will agree to waive any policy excess.

Human Resources Practices Limiting your exposures and engaging in solid human resources practices is an important strategy in reducing your company’s liability.

Willis Consulting, a division of the Willis IRM Group, can provide practical HR and employment services advice and support, to ensure that your business is legally compliant and up to date with best practice.

Employment law is often complex with as many as 15 changes annually, both through legislation and case law.

Keeping current with the changes can be a heavy burden on employers. Wellorganised and credible documents can demonstrate fair treatment, deter litigation, ensure employee honesty and, should litigation occur, demonstrate the employer’s actions.

As with all of your risk management needs, Willis IRM is committed to assisting you in assessing your employment-related policies and helping you to develop best-practice solutions.

46| motoring

Fleet Financial celebrates 20-year business milestone Two decades of excellence and innovation delivers business growth, industry recognition and shared success

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leet Financial will this year celebrate 20 years as Northern Ireland’s leading contract hire and vehicle management provider with a year-long series of events and initiatives.

At the heart of its 20th anniversary celebrations will be a stunning Gala Ball in association with Hope for Youth NI, a local charity also celebrating its 20th year.

Held at the Culloden Hotel on Friday 22nd April, 2016, the event will raise vital funds to help support the work of Hope for Youth NI which provide support for young people right across Northern Ireland.

Launched in February 1996, the fast-growing company has played a leading role in supporting businesses across the UK and Ireland.

Specialising in contract hire and vehicle management to businesses and organisations, Fleet Financial has offices in Newtownabbey and Manchester and is part of Northern Ireland’s largest car retailer, Charles Hurst Group. Transacting business with over 1,000 companies ranging from sole traders, SMEs and some of Northern Ireland’s leading companies, it currently manages a

Pictured celebrating the start of Fleet Financial’s 20th successful year in business is (front) Philip Miley, Fleet Financial Sales and Marketing Director, Operations Director Brian Casey, and Gareth Quinn from Hope For Youth NI ahead of a major fundraising Gala Ball which will take place at the Culloden Hotel on Friday April 22nd.

fleet in excess of 4,000 vehicles.

Philip Miley, Sales & Marketing Director, Fleet Financial, said: “We would like to thank all our customers, our partners, staff and friends for the major successes that Fleet Financial has achieved over the last 20 years.

This milestone is a testament to our longstanding commitment to our valued clients and to the continued innovation that makes us an industry

NIE teams up with VW vans

leader in the UK and Ireland.”

Officially Northern Ireland’s Best Fleet Provider following consecutive award wins at the Fleet Awards in 2014 and 2015, the firm is also the highest-ranking Northern Ireland fleet company in the UK’s official Top 50 list as compiled by industry bible Fleet News.

Philip Miley added: “As we reflect on the last two decades, we’re

excited to be marking our 20th anniversary in 2016 and we look forward with great pride to our spectacular fundraising Gala Ball in April, which gives us a major opportunity to thank everyone for their hard work, dedication and for giving their support to us.”

For more information on the event, how you can attend or get involved, please call 028 9084 9777.

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orthern Ireland Electricity Networks Ltd has renewed its longstanding partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, adding 28 Crafter panel vans to its already sizeable fleet.

These were chosen due to the vehicles’ excellent quality and reliability, as well as the brand’s high level of aftersales support.

NIE Networks is responsible for managing 47,000 kilometres of overhead and underground cables that deliver electricity to 850,000 homes and businesses across Northern Ireland. As part of its regular replacement vehicle programme, the fleet, which currently comprises over 400 vehicles, has been boosted by the additional 28 new Volkswagen Crafter models.

The company opted for the Crafter CR35 MWB panel van due to its ample load space, rear-wheel drive functionality to help access remote areas, and ability for bespoke conversion.

Each Crafter will be equipped with specialist racking solutions, depending on purpose and equipment carried. The new vehicles will be used within the connections side of the business, to help join new customers to the electricity network or alter existing connections for homes and businesses across the country.

David Corry, Supply Chain and Fleet Manager, NIE Networks, commented: “As the network company, we have a responsibility to ensure homes and businesses across Northern Ireland have a reliable electricity supply. It was the reliability and the first-rate aftersales service offered

by Volkswagen which helped to make it an easy decision when it came to replacing vehicles on the fleet. We have had excellent experience in the past with Volkswagen, and we’re pleased to continue the relationship.”

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48|

Vayu Energy Announces Expansion into Northern Ireland Vayu Energy, one of Ireland’s leading independent suppliers of energy to businesses, has announced its expansion into Northern Ireland in a move which will see the company create up to 20 positions for sector specialists over the next three years.

Targeting the business market, Vayu will supply natural gas, electricity and renewables to large scale energy users across the industrial and commercial sector.

Vayu will provide businesses in Northern Ireland with a competitive alternative by allowing customers to take advantage of cheaper prices available in the wholesale gas and electricity markets.

With its market leading energy procurement services and experienced team of specialists, the company’s focus is on bringing greater flexibility to Northern Ireland’s energy sector – enabling businesses to make better procurement decisions supported by transparent and straightforward access to wholesale prices.

Valued at over £500 million (€650 million) per annum, the sector offers significant growth potential for Vayu and is a natural step for the company as it continues to expand across the industrial and commercial (I&C) segment of the market. The I&C segment accounts for 20% of total electricity consumption across Northern Ireland and over 50% of gas consumption in greater Belfast.

Renewable energy is another key focus for Vayu in Northern Ireland.

The company is one of a small number of power suppliers licenced that can provide Power Purchase Agreements in both the Republic and Northern Ireland.

Vayu has grown steadily since 2003, when it became the first independent supplier to be awarded a gas shipping and supply license in the Republic of Ireland. It has gained a reputation for excellence within the industry, supplying customers in a variety of sectors, including pharmaceutical, manufacturing, food and beverage, technology and retail.

The company now supplies 20% of the Republic of Ireland’s largest natural gas business customers and 15% of the mid-sized gas user segment.

In 2007, Vayu launched its electricity supply business and has seen its market share in the Republic increase each year. It is now a leading supplier of 100% green electricity to businesses.

The company’s energy customers include companies such as Tesco, C&C Group, Debenhams, Dublin Port Company and Aer Lingus.

Having shaken up the gas market in the Republic of Ireland, Barry Murphy, Business Development Manager at Vayu Energy says the company is focused on becoming a leading provider of gas, electricity and energy procurement solutions to businesses across Northern Ireland.

“We believe there remains a large untapped opportunity to

deliver new services to the energy market in Northern Ireland,” says Mr Murphy. “Vayu will be investing heavily in winning customers by changing the way businesses view their energy-related decisions and empowering customers to become more active in the area of energy procurement and demand management.”

“We have established a business model that has worked exceptionally well, creating flexibility for gas and electricity users that wasn’t there previously,” says Mr Murphy.

Peter Girvan, energy specialist at Vayu Energy, said: “We see a clear opportunity for businesses in Northern Ireland to gain

Pictured (L-R) are Barry Murphy, Business Development Manager, and Peter Girvan, Energy Specialist, Vayu Energy.

access to much more competitive prices on the wholesale markets.

In particular, we’re seeing significant demand for procurement solutions that combine innovations in risk management with hands on market analysis to minimise energy costs.”

Mr. Girvan noted that, as a supplier of 100% green electricity, Vayu believes that renewables will play a significant role in electricity production in Northern Ireland over the decades to come. He states that, while Northern Ireland has an abundant supply of renewable energy resources, only a fraction of these have been harnessed to date so there is enormous potential for development.

construction |49

Can construction create cosmopolitan benefits for Northern Ireland?

Richard Moorehead of HNH Group in Belfast looks at the short and long term positive impacts of the relocation of Ulster University...

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n March 2013, the Ulster University announced that it would be relocating from Jordanstown to a bespoke £250 million campus in Belfast City Centre. Construction work on the 75,000 square foot facility (making it the largest building project in Northern Ireland) commenced in 2014 and is expected to complete during 2018.

While the initial headlines were largely positive, recent press coverage has tended to focus on the potential drawbacks of the development and, in particular, clichéd stereotypes of troublesome students and associated anti-social behaviour. In the interests of balance, it is important to remind potential critics of the short- and long-term positive impacts of this development.

In the short-term, a construction project of this magnitude will provide a significant fillip to the NI economy.

Data from the UK Contractors Group suggests that every £1 invested in construction output generates £2.84 of total economic activity. Given the estimated project

cost, the implied benefit to the NI economy of the new campus construction alone, is in the region of £710 million, with the potential to support up to 8,000 jobs. The construction of private rented accommodation in the vicinity of the campus will have a further positive impact. In light of the recent announcement by Michelin, the significance of job creation on this scale is hugely important.

Of further significance is the breadth of employment opportunities created by major construction projects. While many of the roles call for experienced and highly-skilled tradesmen, (relative to other sectors of the economy) this project provides greater opportunities for low-skilled and young workers, who might otherwise have limited opportunities for employment.

While the short-term economic impact is significant in its own right, the potential long-term benefit to Northern Ireland is where the really compelling argument lies.

The cost-benefit debate in respect of education spend (and in particular higher education), is often skewed towards short-term

budgetary control, rather than long-term investment. As noted by Universities UK in their report The Impact of Universities on the UK Economy, the significant contribution made by universities to the country’s overall economic infrastructure can sometimes be overlooked.

Universities are a crucial source of both employment and economic activity. During 2011, the higher education sector was responsible for 2.7% of all UK employment and over £73 billion of economic output.

As with the construction sector, there is a strong multiplier effect; it is estimated that for every 100 fulltime jobs created by universities a further 117 full-time equivalent jobs are created. These could be with organisations that provide goods or services to the university, or in businesses supported by the personal expenditure of university employees.

A key factor underpinning the success of UK universities is their popularity with international students.

According to HESA, during 2013/14 the UK attracted more international students than any other country. In that year, 272,835 new international students enrolled with UK universities,

compared to 270,128 in the US. The outcome of this is that circa 20% of university revenue is derived from international sources.

Across the UK, international students make up 18% of the total student population. While the figures for England, Scotland and Wales are broadly comparable at 19%, 21% and 19% respectively, Northern Ireland lags some way behind at 11%. For the academic year 2013/14, there were 56,395 undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled at Northern Irish universities, of which 5,950 were from outside the UK. If we take the 18% UK average as a target figure, Northern Ireland has a shortfall of approximately 4,200 international students.

The economic impact of this shortfall is thrown into stark relief when one considers that, on average, international students spend around £11,000 per year on off-campus expenditure.

Increasing our quota of international students (such that the proportion is in line with the rest of the UK) could therefore result in an additional £46 million being spent on goods and services within the local economy.

Given the positive economic and social contribution which students make, it is clear that we need to do more to make studying in Northern Ireland an attractive option for international students. Having a modern, bespoke campus facility in the city centre will be a key step towards achieving this long-term goal. In the short-term, the investment required to develop both the campus itself and associated private sector accommodation will provide a shot in the arm for the local economy, leading to job creation across a range of sectors.

A cityscape replete with cranes and building sites may not make for the most appealing of sights, but it is sure sign that our economy is back on an upward trajectory.

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City Centre student housing projects approved Belfast’s first purpose-built student accommodation has received planning approval.

The two projects at Great Patrick Street and York Street, adjacent to Ulster University’s new city centre campus, will include 1100 bedrooms with work set to begin in June.

Representing a total £45m investment in the city centre, the two projects will support 150 construction jobs over 18 months.

Eleven-storey Great Patrick Street accommodation will include 475 bedrooms and a ground level retail unit, while York Street’s 14 storey development will feature 590 en suite bedrooms with 92 studio apartments, both with shared living spaces, kitchens and landscaped courtyards.

Both buildings have been designed by local architecture firm, LIKE Architects, which employs 8 staff from its city centre office and has hailed this development as a turning point in the regeneration of the north side of Belfast City Centre and for the development industry here.

Ciaran Deazley, director at LIKE Architects commented: “We are looking forward to starting work in the summer and are anticipating a May 2018 completion date. The building tenders are expected to be issued immediately with appointments made and construction started in the summer.”

This artist’s impression of the Great Patrick Street development depicts the student accommodation that will include 475 bedrooms and a ground level retail unit with shared living spaces, kitchens and landscaped courtyards.

construction |51

Derry-based housebuilder chooses equity funding from BGF

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family-owned housebuilder has become the first company in Northern Ireland to secure investment from BGF (Business Growth Fund), the UK’s most active provider of growth capital to small and mid-sized businesses.

For more than 40 years, Braidwater has been designing and building high quality two to five bed family homes across Northern Ireland, with a strong focus on design and building efficiency. The business is run by founder and Executive Chairman Patrick McGinnis and his son, Managing Director Joe McGinnis.

The growth capital investment will be used to support the development of residential properties across existing sites and provide Braidwater with long term strength to deliver on its commitments, helping it to address the shortage of new build houses in Northern Ireland. Four developments are currently underway at Bedford Meadows, Antrim, Drenagh Park, Limavady, Leighinmohr Crescent, Ballymena and Fort Manor, Dundonald, with two more projects due to commence shortly.

Mike Stansfield, former CEO of David Wilson Homes, has been appointed by Braidwater as an independent Non-Executive Chairman following an introduction made by BGF. Paddy Graham, an Investor Director, and Ciaran McGivern, former Head of Business Banking with Bank of Ireland NI, will also join the board of the company.

Following the deal, Braidwater’s social housing division will rebrand as BW Limited, which will continue to undertake project management and construction in the social housing sector.

BGF was set up in 2011 to provide a new type of funding option for small and mid-sized businesses, offering both an alternative and complementary source of money to bank debt. BGF is now a minority partner in more than 100 companies, with Braidwater becoming the first business in Northern Ireland to secure funding from BGF’s £2.5bn pot. Unlike traditional private equity funding, BGF makes long-term investments and holds non-controlling

stakes in the companies it supports.

Joe McGinnis said: “This is an exciting new stage of development for Braidwater and we are delighted to have secured the investment.

The business is growing, and we have seen strong demand from our current developments and have a healthy pipeline of land for acquisition.

BGF’s investment and support along with our long standing highly experienced in house, on site and subcontract teams ensures that we have the ability to deliver on new opportunities and meet the increasing demand for high quality family homes.

“As a family business, we like BGF’s approach and its funding model which is focused on longer term, patient

capital. We’re pleased to be their first investment in Northern Ireland and we would suggest that given the large number of family owned SMEs in Northern Ireland that other companies like ours should look to take advantage of opportunities such as this to create growth in this region.”

Andy Gregory, regional director for BGF in Northern Ireland said: “We’re delighted that Braidwater is our first investment in Northern Ireland, and that Joe and Patrick can now confidently move forward with their growth plans.

“Many small and mid-sized businesses have ambitions to

grow but lack access to funding, or choose to rely exclusively on bank debt. BGF offers an alternative to this.

“We now have a proven model and an established infrastructure.

We’re focused on finding strong management teams with deep knowledge of their sector, and we urge ambitious entrepreneurs to get in touch.”

BGF initially invests between £2m and £10m and can provide additional funding to support further growth. It backs private and AIM listed companies that typically have revenues of between £5m-£100m, across all sectors except financial services.

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Independent commission to guide NI infrastructure spending needed An independent commission should be established to guide investment in Northern Ireland’s schools, hospitals, roads, railways, energy, and other infrastructure, the RICS has urged.

This is one of a series of recommendations contained within the RICS Northern Ireland Manifesto for the 2016 Assembly Elections.

RICS, which represents 4,000 members in Northern Ireland, says that such a body would help ensure billions of pounds worth of investment is made in the best interests of the local economy and society.

It would take a similar form to the National Infrastructure Commission, which was charged by the UK Chancellor “with offering unbiased analysis of the UK’s longterm infrastructure needs” when it was established last year. The Chancellor said that it would also hold government to account in terms of delivery.

RICS Northern Ireland Chairman, Andrew Tough, says: “Northern Ireland’s infrastructure is aging and in need of significant upgrading so that the region can remain competitive and attractive to inward investment. Independently assessing Northern Ireland’s infrastructure needs and making strategic decisions in the public interest about where investment should go would be a very positive step towards delivering best value for money and providing a boost to the private sector.”

In its Manifesto, entitled Investing 4 Growth, RICS is, amongst other things, also calling for: • An introduction of domestic water charging and case-specific use of Public Private Partnerships to fund infrastructure investment • The creation of Infrastructure Business Plans by government departments and the Strategic Investment Board to ensure greater awareness and transparency regarding the economic, social and environmental benefits, and regional significance, of planned infrastructure projects • A five-year Regional Infrastructure Delivery Plan of high-value public infrastructure projects, strategically prioritised, including timetables for delivery, funding identified, and

delivery partners outlined • The development of professional degree level apprenticeships in partnership with professional bodies, industry and academia • The introduction of letting and management agent regulation in the private rented sector to drive up standards • A city deal for Belfast, and city centre enterprise zones • Vacant rates relief for new build or upgraded office development for a set temporary period, or until full occupancy is reached • A Northern Ireland Land Use Strategy to provide strategic guidance to ensure sustainable and viable planning and development policy • Incentives to encourage multiproduct and alternative use of land to deter the risk of land abandonment The full Manifesto is available at: www.rics.org

Andrew Tough

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54|

Lanes Group plc acquires AQS Environmental

Record Dumper Deal for Sleator Plant

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orthern Ireland-based Sleator Plant, a specialist capital equipment provider to the construction and material handling sectors, has secured a record-breaking order for heavy–duty site dumpers.

Richard Leigh, Business Development Director, Lanes Group

The 70-unit order, coming from multi-national plant hire business CP Hire, will see a combination of one, three, six and nine-tonne Terex site dumpers manufactured and supplied throughout 2016. Set to be rented and operated by site professionals across the British Isles, this is the largest site dumper supply contract agreed in Northern Ireland in nearly a decade.

Jonathan Campbell, General Manager of Sleator Plant, comments: “In 2014, we announced one of the country’s largest-ever site dumper contracts. The 54-unit deal, made by CP Hire, was nearly ten times higher than any order placed in Northern Ireland over the past five years.

“Thanks to excellent product performance, customer support, back-up, servicing, training and maintenance provision, the agreement was delivered to deadline and our relationship with CP Hire continued to grow. In fact, throughout the rest of the year, we supported the business with a selection of one-off units to service a number of new contracts and projects, taking the total supply figure to 65 dumpers.”

Campbell continues: “Twelve months later, following incremental growth by both companies, CP Hire has further grown its rental fleet and placed an order for 70 more Terex site dumpers for 2016. A sign of the UK’s recovering economy, this is a great story for the manufacturing and construction industries.”

Speaking about placing the order, Andrew Hutchinson, CP Hire’s Managing Director, said: “With a wide range of high-quality site dumper models available on short lead times, Terex was the obvious choice for us. We have a very positive relationship with Sleator Plant, our local dealer, which delivers a hassle-free service and an excellent backup and maintenance provision.”

Lanes Group plc has acquired the Arlo Group, the owners of AQS Environmental Solutions, one of the largest providers of drainage, industrial and waste management services in Ireland.

Arlo Group, based in Tipperary, comprises AQS Environmental Solutions and Acorn Recycling, a sludge-to-compost recycling company.

AQS Environmental Solutions provides a wide range of specialist drainage services to local authorities, private industry and residential customers across Ireland.

The acquisitions confirm Lanes Group’s position as the UK and Ireland’s leading specialist drainage and maintenance solutions provider.

It creates a group of companies with 1,703 staff, 27 operating centres and five utility hubs. Lanes Group has unrivalled expertise and experience across all key commercial and industrial sectors, including water

utilities, transportation, energy, local government, construction, insurance and domestic.

Richard Leigh, Business Development Director of Lanes Group, said: “Both acquisitions deliver new business opportunities that are an excellent strategic fit, both with our current services, and our plans for growth.

“AQS Environmental Solutions has sound finances, a strong brand, and a good reputation with customers in Ireland. Acquiring the company helps us achieve a strategic ambition to extend our geographical reach, where it is financially and operationally prudent to do so.”

The established management team at AQS Environmental Solutions will remain in place. The company has 60 employees, and has a particularly strong presence in wastewater tankering, as well as waste management.

CP Hire managing director Andrew Hutchinson (left) and Sleator Plant general manager Jonathan Campbell

ABORICULTURAL CONSULTANCY

Automatic doors

Building information

CONCRETE

Professional & Impartial Services Tree inspections (ground & aerial) Tree Surveys Tree Hazard Identification Mortgage Reports Vegetation Management Schedules Legal Dispute/ Expert Witness Services High Hedge Legislation advice Planning Consultations Woodland Management Plans Tree Planting & Landscape Design All consultancy work is conducted by fully qualified and experienced personnel and is covered by £1m professional indemnity insurance.

Northstone (NI) Ltd, Company No. 4078, Registered Office: 99 Kingsway, Dunmurry Belfast BT17 9NU Correspondence Address: Northstone (NI) Limited Materials Division Shinny Road, Coleraine BT51 4PS Tel: 028 7032 1100

Clarke Cunningham Tree Maintenance Ltd. 69 Upper Mealough Road Carryduff, BT8 8LR TEL: 028 9081 4488, Fax: 028 9081 4333 Email: info@treemaintenance.com Website: www.treemaintenance.com

Cavity trays

ACCESS SOLUTIONS

Manufacturers of preformed cavitrays, caviclosers, cavivents, caviweeps, dampcourses, arches, lintels, airbricks, membranes, barriers, flashings, ventilators; cavibricks. Radon and Methane protection systems.

Wide range of preformed systems from the largest and longest established specialist. Products with Agrement certificates to British Standards. LABC Product Type Approval. Free design and advisory service. For high performance products with warranty.

Cavity Trays Ltd is the only tray manufacturer awarded European Technical approval.

Quality Access Equipment & Bespoke Access Solutions • Ladders • Stepladders • Scaffold Towers • Platforms & Podiums • Engineering & Fabrication • Inspections • Training Clow Group Ltd. 2/24 Limestone Road Belfast BT15 3AJ Tel: +44 (0)2890 749 748 Fax: +44 (0)2890 749 758 Email: enquiries@clowgroup.co.uk Web: www.clowgroup.co.uk

CONCRETE

to advertise Contact...

Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Walkway Systems Scaffold Tower Systems Edge Protection System Fall Arrest & Personal Protection Equipment Promoting ‘Safe Working Platforms’ Ridgeway 103 Airport Road Belfast, BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9045 4599 Fax: 028 9045 4596 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

CES Liquid Screed • Reduced build height • Reduced drying times • Reduced health and safety risk • Reduced tile adhesive • Increased strength • Increased thermal properties

CES Liquid Screed Doran's Rock Quarry & Concrete Works, 124 Crossgar Road, Saintfield, Co. Down, BT24 7JQ Email: sales@cesquarryproducts.com Web: www.cesquarryproducts.com

Acoustic and fire barriers /stops for cavity wall specifications.

New range to suppress sound transmission with up to fours hours fire integrity rating Level threshold isolation dpc's and compatible vertical closers now available.

Immediate distribution from stock Cavity Trays Limited Contact: Stephen Leyland Ltd, Castings House, Quarry Heights, North Road, Newtownards BT23 7SZ Tel: 028 9182 2522 Fax: 028 9182 2558 Cavity Trays Ltd New Administration Centre, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8Hu Tel: 01935 474769 Fax: 01935 428223 E-mail: enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk

Concrete

to advertise Contact...

FIRE & SECURITY

GAS

Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

“Northern Ireland’s Leading FamilyOwned Fire & Security Specialists” Diamond Systems have been providing innovative fire and security solutions for a range of clients, throughout Northern Ireland for over 27 years, from commercial and industrial premises to public sector and residential.

Calor Gas Northern Ireland Limited

• Fire Detection & Alarm • Fire Suppression Systems • Integration • Intruder Detection & Alarm • CCTV • Access Control • Remote Monitoring • Emergency Communications Systems

Airport Road West, Sydenham, Belfast, BT3 9EE. Tel: 028 9045 5588 E-mail: info@calorgas.ie Website: www.calorgas.ie

design

Quality Precast Solutions for Building and Civil Construction

COMMISSIONING

INSTALLATION

MAINTENANCE

Diamond Electronic Systems Ltd Unit 1a Harbour Court, 5 Heron Road, Belfast BT3 9HB Tel: 028 9020 7207 Email: info@diamondsystems.co.uk www.diamondsystems.co.uk

• Asset BEBO Bridge Arches • Redi-Rock Wall Systems • Box Culverts • Bridge Parapets • Manhole Rings & Slabs • Heads & Sills, Copings and Edgings • Above Ground Post-Tensioned Tanks

GAS

Moore Concrete Products Caherty House, 41 Woodside Road, Ballymena BT42 2QH Tel: 028 2565 2566 Fax: 028 2565 8480 Email: info@moore-concrete.com Web: www.moore-concrete.com

Supplying Northern Ireland's leading architect and builders

FACADES

Swiss Facades Transforming Exterior Facades RTU Ltd

Premium Swiss Quality Panel Systems for High End Architecture

Cloughfern Avenue, Newtownabbey, BT37 0UZ

T: +44 (0)28 9085 1441 E: info@rtu.co.uk

www.rtu.co.uk

Swiss Facades Contact Anne Hurl.

Tel: +44 (0)7554 056930 Office Tel: +44 (0)28 79632026 Email us info@swissfacades.com www.swissfacades.com

Flogas goes far beyond simply managing and supplying bulk and cylinder LP Gas requirements.

Choosing LP Gas from Flogas not only opens the door to a versatile, highly efficient energy source with affordable installation and running costs – we create and implement tailored energy solutions specific to client applications.

Our experience covers a comprehensive range of markets including domestic (both single dwelling and metered estates), catering, commercial, industrial, agricultural and automotive.

CPD Learning CPD sessions are now available from Flogas to assist architects, planning consultants and other specifiers in updating their core learning and knowledge. For more information visit www.flogasni.com/cpd.

Flogas Airport Road West Belfast Harbour Estate BELFAST BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9073 2611 Email: info@flogasni.com Web: www.flogasni.com

Calor is a leading supplier of cleaner, efficient LPG energy solutions in Northern Ireland with specialist knowledge covering all sectors Including Industrial, Commercial, Hospitality, Agriculture, and Domestic.

We offer our customers: • Tailored energy solution • Full design service • Technical support and guidance • 24-hour emergency call out Calor Accredited CPD programme available.

Content includes LPG Product Knowledge, Gas Regulations and Standards. Courses are FREE of charge and available by arrangement with one of our Calor Business Development Engineers. Contact cpd@calorgas.ie

Industrial Doors

Metal Finishing

Acheson & Glover has been in business for more than 50 years. As well as in-depth experience we offer the widest range of concrete products in the UK and Ireland - from manhole covers to decorative walling and paving.

Then there’s our unique range of problem solvers:

Industrial Doors & Loading Bay Equipment Automatic Gates, Traffic Barriers, Turnstiles, Electric Overhead Cranes, Hoists, Lifting Gear

• • • • • •

Britannia Electrical Services Unit 4, McKinney Industrial Estate, Hydepark, Mallusk BT36 4PX

SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALLS ACOUSTIC BLOCKS THERMAL BLOCKS PERMEABLE PAVING PRESTRESSED FLOORING BESPOKE (contact us to discuss your needs)

Acheson & Glover Ltd. 64 Old Moy Road Dungannon Co. Tyrone BT71 6PU Tel: 028 8778 4208 Fax: 028 8778 4805 Email: solutions@acheson-glover.com Web: www.acheson-glover.com

Tel: 028 9083 8030 Fax: 028 9083 8058 Email: bes.doors@btconnect.com Website: www.besdoors.co.uk

Insurance Intermediaries

PLASTIC SHEETS/ SHAPES

PAVING

METAL MESH

Local construction insurance expertise at competitive terms

Contact Keith Hynds or David Stevenson

on 028 9032 9042 Email: info@willisinsurance.co.uk Web: www.willisinsurance.co.uk

Mats and matting

N. Ireland distributors and stockists for Coral mats and matting. Nuway entrance matting systems, threshold matting and tiles, rubber, plastic, coir and anti-fatigue matting, Gradus stairnosings, safety flooring, Flexi tiles, Studded rubber and Jaymart products.

Matrex Mats and Matting 24B Portadown Road, Lurgan, Co. Armagh BT66 8QX Tel: 028 3832 8857 Fax: 028 3832 1058 Mobile: 07831 141305 E-mail: matrex@btconnect.com Web: www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk

support

range

• Perspex • Lexan solid polycarbonate • Marlon multi wall polycarbonate • Engineering plastics • Machined Parts 24 Stockmans Way, Musgrave Park Industrial Estate, Belfast BT9 7ET Tel: 028 9066 8358 Fax: 028 9066 0623 Email: plastics@comcoplastics.co.uk Web: www.comcoplastics.co.uk

PUMPING

Willis & Company provide a wide range of Insurance products to protect your business as well as Health & Safety and Risk Management Services.

• Employers & Public Liability Insurance • Contractors "All Risks" Insurance • Motor Fleet Insurance • Professional Indemnity Insurance • Property & Business Interruption Insurance • Latent Defects Insurance • Bonds

service

DRILLING & PUMPING SUPPLIES LTD

"Twil" Weldmesh EXPAMET Expanded Metal, FLOWFORGE Open Steel Flooring, Handrail Standards & Stair Treads, PERFORATED Metal Sheets, Comprehensive Stock Range, Ridgeway 103 Airport Road, Belfast BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9045 4599 Fax: 028 9045 4596 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

Hire Centres

Partitions (Acoustic)

We at Masters Choice Ltd have been manufacturing acoustic partitions and joinery products for over 20 years. All products offered by Masters Choice are manufactured at our workshop by experienced and dedicated tradesmen to the highest quality and standard. As we manufacture all products ourselves which allows us to offer a full range of services including Design. We manufacture and install all products to our Clients specific requirements. We also offer an after sales care package on all products provided.

Master's Choice Ltd Silverbridge, Newry N. Ireland, BT35 9LJ Tel: (028) 30861032 Fax: (028) 30861693 E-mail: shona@masterschoice.co.uk

Are one of the foremost pump distributors in Ireland, holding agencies for some of the worlds leading pump manufacturers.

We offer a complete design / supply / install service with the technical expertise and product range to support everything from domestic / commercial packaged pump stations to bespoke systems for municipal applications.

Our specialities include: • Hot / cold water boosting • Rainwater harvesting • Food and pharmaceutical • Sewage and storm pumping systems • Leachate systems Drilling & Pumping Supplies Ltd Tel: 028 9181 8347 Email: sales@dps-ni.com

FreePhone

0800 1 970 970

SAFETY

't ut o s DON is m If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact: Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Providing on-site safety for: • Construction • Maintenance • Engineering Lifeline Air Bags Mobile: 07748 786 076 Fax: 028 8772 9262 E-mail: malachymckee@me.com Web: www.lifelineairbags.co.uk

REcruitment

All Ireland Sales and Marketing Recruitment Specialists • Building & Construction • Chemicals • Telecoms • Technical/ Construction • Advertising/Media • IT • Retail • FMCG/Foodservice • Marketing Unit 2, 1 Edgewater Road, Belfast Harbour, Belfast, BT3 9JQ Tel: +44 28 9077 0999 E: glenn.mccormick@salesplacement.com Web: www.salesplacement.com

REtaining walls

PLASTER & PLASTERBOARD

Washroom systems

PRONET SAFETY SERVICES Gyproc is the market leader in plaster, plasterboard and drylining systems, manufacturing in Ireland since 1936, with a long history of providing innovative, costeffective and reliable products that meet the demands of the construction industry.

Looking to the future Gyproc is determined to remain at the forefront, as market leader, continuing to provide innovative, sustainable design solutions for the buildings of the future.

Gyproc, Ireland Unit 4, Kilcarbery Business Park, Nangor Rd, Dublin 22, Ireland Direct Line 01-6298400 www.gyproc.ie Email: enquiries@gyproc.ie

Products and Services The following sections provide an overview of what we can provide, please contact us if you have a particular problem or application that isn’t featured on our site.

• Horizontal, Vertical, Inclined and Overhead Cable Systems • Mobile Anchors • Eyebolts • Demarcation • Annual systems Retest • Risk Assessment • Maintenance • Training Pronet Safety Services Tel: 028 9337 3967 Fax: 028 9335 3518 Email: info@pronetsafetyservices.com Web: www.pronetsafetyservices.com Web: www.pronetsafetyproducts.com

TREE CARE SERVICES National Housebuilding Council (NHBC) Northern Ireland Holyrood Court, 59 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6SA Tel: 028 9068 3131 Fax: 028 9068 3258

PVC BUILDING PRODUCTS

Retain provides a design supply & installation service for a range of earth retention systems. All of the systems are class leaders. This ensures clients confidence that the most suitable system is used in each given application.

• Greenface • Andacrib • Modular Block • Gabions • Installation • Permacrib

Specialists in uPVC Building Products.

• FASCIA & SOFFITS • HYGEINIC WALL CLADDING • WINDOW TRIMS • RAINWATER SYSTEMS

Head Office:

Unit 2 Musgrave Park Industrial Estate, 26 Stockmans Way, Belfast, BT9 7ET TEL: 02890381990 www.wilplas.com E-mail Sales@wilplas.com

Branches at: Ballymena 028 25645380 Cookstown 028 86764422 Retain Solutions Ltd 56 York Street, Belfast BT15 1AS Tel: 028 9031 3881 Email: retain@retain.co.uk www.retain.co.uk

• Recruitment, Training & Development • Energy, Waste & the Environment

Safety

Newry 028 30252499

Design that lasts Extensive range of washroom systems

Outstanding quality & performance

Exceptional service & support

Petal Email: info@petal.co.uk w: www.petal.co.uk

Wall & DOOR PROTECTION

Professional & Impartial Services Crown lifting / Raising / Crown Reduction Selective / Formative Pruning Deadwooding / Crown Cleaning Storm Damage Rectification (24hr) Removal of dead, diseased and dangerous trees Sectional removal with the aid of mobile crane Stump Grinding, Root Removal and Root Pruning Conifer Maintenance High Hedge Legislation advice Young Tree Maintenance Shrub Pruning / Grounds Maintenance Woodland Management Tree Planting Composted Woodchip and Firewood Sales Fully equipped, insured and qualified Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor

Clarke Cunningham Tree Maintenance Ltd.

69 Upper Mealough Road Carryduff, BT8 8LR TEL: 028 9081 4488, Fax: 028 9081 4333 Email: info@treemaintenance.com Website: www.treemaintenance.com

't t N ou O s D is m If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact: Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Products: Protection Rails Handrails Wall Protection Door Protection Heavy Duty Protection Yeoman Shield provides a range of functional and attractive wall and door protection systems for new build and refurbishment projects.

Our wide range of rails, wall sheet, corner and door protection systems are designed to prevent expensive and unsightly damage to the internal fabric of commercial and public buildings.

New for 2016 as part of celebrating 50 years in the trade Yeoman Shield are launching a new range of Guardian Handrails to complement their wall & door protection products.

Information on all Yeoman Shield products can be found at www.yeomanshield.com or call the sales office to request a brochure.

Yeoman Shield c/o Harrison Thompson & Co Ltd Whitehall Estate Whitehall Road Leeds LS12 5JB Tel: +44 113 279 5854 Email: sallyann@yeomanshield.com

NEXT ISSUE...

March/april 2016

product news |59 Staying safe against extreme corrosion

GRADUS’ STAIR EDGINGS SUPPLIED TO NEW LONDON OFFICE

E: cat.whitford@nch.com W: www.ncheurope.com/en

W: www.createsafestairs.uk

G

lobal water, energy and maintenance solutions provider NCH Europe is helping maintenance engineers protect stainless steel equipment against rust at extreme temperatures.

It’s Stay Put product is a corrosion-resistant coating capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 600 degrees Celsius without running or sagging.

Maintenance engineers working with equipment and infrastructure exposed to high temperatures will be acutely aware of the difficulty in finding an effective rust-preventative coating that can withstand the heat. Many products are rendered ineffective under extreme temperatures, hastening the onset of corrosion by leaving surfaces vulnerable.

Stay Put can be easily applied either as a base layer or as a top layer once a surface has been cleared of rust with a de-rusting solution. The product’s quick drying properties mean that surfaces are well protected just a short time after application.

N

ew Ludgate, based in the heart of London, is a development of two office buildings that provide 349,555 sq ft of commercial office space, as well as retail and restaurant facilities.

Working with The Roseville Group, Gradus installed ADXT1 stair edgings with xtra-grip, which wraps around the leading edge of the step edge, to ensure that foot contact is made with the slip-resistant element of the stair edging.

The stair edgings also meet the guidance in Approved Document M and BS8300:2009+A1:2010, which is designed to ensure buildings are suitable and inclusive for all users.

For further information on the full range of stair edgings available from Gradus, please contact 01625 428922 or visit www.gradusworld.com Or visit the create safe stairs micro site to help you select, install and maintain stair nosings. www.createsafestairs.uk

SCHUECO’S CONCEALED WINDOW FITTINGS RANGE IS NOW EVEN MORE COMPREHENSIVE

ENHANCED CHOICE OF PANELS FOR SCHUECO’S RANGE OF DOORS

W: www.schueco.co.uk

E: mkinfobox@schueco.co.uk W: www.schueco.com

T

he AvanTec SimplySmart range of concealed window fittings from Schueco UK has been made more flexible and comprehensive than ever with the addition of a number of new parts designed to increase the system’s versatility.

Among these is the Schueco SmartActive window handle which provides one answer to widespread concerns about the increasing numbers of germs that are becoming resistant to conventional antibiotics.

The SmartActive handle has a specially developed anti-microbial surface finish, incorporating micro-silver particles, that kills germs on contact.

Independent tests verify a 99.9% reduction in germ contamination within 24 hours.

In addition, an AvanTec anti-slam fitting has been introduced.

C

ustomers of Schueco UK can now choose products from leading German door panel specialist, Adeco, a longtime supplier to Schueco customers in other European countries.

This option will give UK clients a greatly improved choice of stylish, high-end design options for Schueco entrance doors.

Constructed from the highest quality aluminium, Adeco’s comprehensive product portfolio includes modern, contemporary designs as well as more traditional styles, meaning that they can supply an infill door panel to bring visual distinction to any type of property.

Adeco offers three panel types – infill, single sided leaf enclosing and double sided leaf enclosing, the latter two providing the most popular and visually attractive versions. These are combined with purpose-designed Schueco profiles in frame depths that range from 65 mm to 90 mm depending upon the configuration that has been chosen.

FLOOD PROOF SKIRTING BOARDS ALSO PROVIDE ROOM HEATING AND WALL DRYING E: martin@discreteheat.co.uk W: www.discreteheat.co.uk

T

hermaSkirt is an aluminium alternative to conventional timber and MDF skirting boards, that not only is impervious to being submerged, but actually provides the central heating as well, replacing conventional radiators in the process.

Being manufactured in rust resistant aluminium, and then epoxy powder coated, ThermaSkirt is available in a wide range of shapes and styles & can withstand being under water without even needing repainting afterwards.

Uniquely, ThermaSkirt also incorporates integral pipes that connect onto a typical central heating system, creating a true ‘skirting board radiator’.

By providing the heating all around the room at low level, as well as creating a more comfortable and energy efficient system, ThermaSkirt will also help to dry out flooded properties and limit the lingering effects of damp and musty smells.

web directory www.wilplas.com

to advertise Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218 Contact... siobhankissward@greerpublications.com www.diamondsystems.co.uk

www.spanwall.com

www.calorgas.ie

www.1080.co.uk

www.flogasni.com

www.gqaqualifications.com

www.jncfence.com

web directory |61 www.nkfencing.com

www.acefixings.com

www.contractceilings.com

www.bestvaluegabions.com

www.whitemountain.co.uk

www.ridgefence.com

Whitemountain Quarries Ltd, 11 Sheepwalk Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim. BT28 3RD Telephone: 028 9250 1000 • Fax: 028 9250 1100

www.willisinsurance.co.uk

To advertise your company in this space contact, Siobhan Kissward on: Tel: 028 9078 3218 siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

62| web directory www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk

www.heynwaste.co.uk

www.petal.co.uk

www.masterschoice.co.uk

www.tinnelly.com

www.cphire.com

www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk

www.sdg.ie

web directory |63 www.mclarke.co.uk

www.balloohire.com

www.swissfacades.com

www.treemaintenance.com

www.pronetsafetyservices.com

www.swissfacades.com

www.gyproc.ie

www.yeomanshield.com

V B Evans & Company are pleased to have been chosen to undertake responsibility for the bi-monthly collation of this data and sponsor its publication.

With over 65 years of experience in business the firm provides a wide range of quality assured professional quantity surveying and other consultancy services to Northern Ireland clients who seek value for money and appropriate contract advice for their building design or refurbishment proposals.

The Specify Prices published here are representative of the market price of each building material, having been assessed from a variety of local sources which in the present competitive economic climate prefer not to be named. Readers are advised to verify individual prices with a local merchant for their particular needs since our prices are necessarily averaged for guidance purposes.

We hope that these pages may be of assistance to readers but would welcome any constructive suggestions for amendment to include information which would be appropriate to your needs.

Material prices at January 2016. Prices are exclusive of VAT. Discounts will apply.

This information is compiled specifically for Specify periodicals and is copyright.

Building Materials Prices

64 | prices AGGREGATES

CONCRETE BLOCKS

Full loads delivered Central Belfast 50mm Crusher run 100mm Crusher run Fine Blinding Coarse Blinding 6mm Stone 10mm Stone Building Sand Washed Sand

per tonne £15.00 £15.50 £14.50 £14.50 £16.50 £20.00 £20.00 £17.00

BRICKS

FINISHED SOFTWOOD

Metric-sized concrete bricks delivered

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. per 100m Parana Pine 20x8 £61.00 44x8 £94.00 Whitewood 32x12 £51.00 69x12 £80.50 32x19 £61.00 44x19 £73.00 32x32 £79.50 69x32 £136.50 69x44 £175.00 94x44 £226.00 69x69 £258.00

Facings Blanchardstown Antique Fergustie Country Mixture Richmond Mixture Irish Dacharne Devenish Ardagh Gold Textured Lismore Slate Textured

per 1,000 £372.00 £377.00 £337.00 £362.00 £337.00 £337.00 £327.00

NB Clay brick prices are not included because of the enormous variation in types, quality and prices from various sources.

CARCASSING TIMBER Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, not exceeding 5.7 metres. per 100m 50x19 £46.50 75x19 £69.00 125x19 £112.00 38x25 £42.00 75x25 £51.00 150x25 £99.50 50x38 £78.00 100x38 £118.00 150x38 £93.50 50x50 £93.50 100x50 £148.00 125x50 £168.50 100x75 £205.00 200x75 £460.00 150x100 £380.00

CEMENT Bulk Cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area per tonne Ordinary Portland Cement £139.00 Sulphate Resisting Cement £164.00

Ordinary Portland Cement

3 Pilot's View, Heron Road Belfast BT3 9LE Tel: 028 9045 7000 Fax: 028 9045 7040 Web: www.vbevans.com

Quantity Surveying Building Surveying Project Management CDM Planning Supervision

INDUSTRIAL AND FIRE-RESISTING BOARD Prices are exclusive of delivery.

Terms for SUPALUX non-combustible asbestos-free fire-resisting board - price per sheet up to 149m2

2440x1220

per tonne £355.00

CEMENT MORTARS In full loads delivered to Central Belfast

per tonne Standard 1 lime mortar £26.00 Tinted mortar ref.

Y4 £45.00 Y15 £52.00 Y135 £44.00 Y91 £54.00 Y10 £55.00

6mm sanded £50.00

9mm sanded £52.30

12mm sanded £70.00

MASTERBOARD Class O asbestos-free multi-purpose building board sanded finish.

Price per sheet up to 149m2 2440x1220

Bagged cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area

Chartered Surveyors

Metric-sized concrete blocks, delivered to Belfast area, full loads, mechanically off-loaded per 1,000 440x215x100 3.5N/mm2 £423.00 440x215x100 7Nmm2 £433.00 440x215x100 10Nmm2 £433.00 2 440x300x100 7Nmm £513.00 440x300x100 10Nmm2 £533.00 Concrete brick 15Nmm2 £405.00 440x215x100 Tolite 800.00

6mm £62.50

9mm £75.00

12mm £96.50

PLASTERING MATERIALS Per tonne, ex-works (delivery by arrangement) Lightweight aggregate pre-mixed gypsum plaster to BS 1191, Part 2.

Metal lathing undercoat Bonding Finish Gypsum plasterboard to BS 1230 per sheet (2400 mm x 1200 mm) 9.5mm thick plasterboard 9.5mm thick foil-backed plasterboard per bundle (6 Nr 1219mm x 406mm) 9.5mm thick plasterlath 9.5mm thick foil-back plasterboard per 100 lin. feet Galvanised standard angle bead Galvanised plasterstop (10mm) Galvanised external renderstop

£301.00 £358.00 £320.00 £10.00 £14.00 £16.00 £10.80 £10.00 £13.00 £26.50

In the next issue of READY MIXED CONCRETES Ordinary Portland Cement in full loads delivered to Central Belfast per cub. metre 1:10 by volume £65.00 1:2:4 by volume £79.00 1:3:6 by volume £71.00 2 20 N/mm :20mm aggregate £66.00 25 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £70.00 30 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £73.00

Fibre Cement Slates ex-yard per 1,000 £1500.00 £1600.00

Concrete tiles delivered Central Belfast Interlocking flat tile Double roll tile Single roll tile Half round ridge tile - 457mm long Angular ridge tile - 457mm long

£860.00 £860.00 £800.00 per tile £4.80 £5.40

SAWN REDWOOD Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths.

100x50 150x50 100x63 150x63 200x63 100x75 150x75 200x75

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes.

114x19 89x12 114x12 89x12 94x12

T + G Whitewood TG + V Whitewood TG + V Whitewood TG + V Redwood TG + Open V Redwood

£94.00 £69.00 £80.50 £98.50 £108.00

• Health & Safety including: • Fire Safety & Working at Height

STEEL REINFORCEMENT

ROOF SLATES AND TILES Thrutone Thrutone Relief

SOFTWOOD FLOORING, SHEETING AND PANELING

£224.00 £318.00 £243.00 £379.60 £519.00 £304.00 £457.00 £683.00

Mild Steel reinforcing bars to BS 4449. High yield steel reinforcing bars to BS 4449/4461.

One size, bent and labelled, per tonne, delivered to Central Belfast Diameter/mm Mild Steel High Yield

6 £686.00 £755.00

8 £686.00 £755.00

10 £686.00 £755.00

12 £686.00 £755.00

20 £686.00 £755.00

25 £686.00 £755.00

32 £686.00 £755.00

40 £686.00 £755.00 Mesh Fabric to BS 4483 ex-yard per sheet (one or mixed references)

per sheet BS reference A 98 £31.50

A142 £31.50

A193 £35.50

A252 £40.00

A393 £68.00

B503 £68.00

B785 £81.00 Heavy section steel ex-yard in lots of over 5T

per tonne UC 152x152x23 £895.00 203x203x46 £1183.00 254x254x73 £1265.00 305x305x118 £1130.00 356x368x153 £1300.00 UB 305x165x40 356x127x37 406x140x39 457x152x52 533x210x82

SAWN WHITEWOOD

£1130.00 £1130.00 £1130.00 £1130.00 £1130.00

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths.

50x25 100x25 150x25 275x25 75x50 125x50 175x50 250x50 100x75 200x75 250x75

£40.00 £74.00 £102.50 £191.50 £120.00 £204.00 £260.00 £440.00 £227.50 £492.00 £753.90

TERMS FOR GLASSROCK Non-combustible asbestos-free fire-resisting board - price per sheet up to 149m2.

6mm 10mm 12.5mm sanded sanded sanded 2400x1200 £49.50 £51.50 £69.00

UPVC DRAIN PIPES AND FITTINGS SOFTWOOD SHELVING Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes 119x12 144x12 169x12 219x12 119x19 144x19 194x19 244x19 269x19

£79.60 £94.80 £110.30 £164.30 £97.30 £129.10 £173.50 £234.50 £325.60

Pipes and fittings to BS 4600. List price ex-yard.

Large quantities will attract considerable discounts.

Plain sewer, per 6m Pipe coupler, ea Single oblique branch, ea Single swept branch, ea 45˚ short radius, ea 87½˚ short radius bend, ea 45˚ long radius bend, ea 90˚ long radius bend, ea Straight channel 45˚ curved channel, ea

110mm 160mm £10.50 £23.00 £3.50 £7.50 £11.00 £25.00 £12.00 £25.00 £6.20 £17.00 £6.20 £15.50 £17.00 £32.00 £19.00 £32.00 £18.50 £31.00 £23.00 £58.00

MARCH/april 2016

66| interview

Specify talks to Celine Treanor, Bid Manager for Gilbert-Ash...

Bidding – not as easy as ABCD? Don’t ever assume. Oh and always have a plan B.

Q: What would you say to any students who are considering a career in construction?

It is an interesting, diverse and exciting sector to work in where you can see the tangible results of your hard work.

Construction is not just about the finished product. There is a complex process that goes before this to make the construction of new buildings possible. It therefore offers a wide range of career possibilities.

Q: Do you think the construction sector needs more support from Stormont?

Yes absolutely. The construction sector in Northern Ireland is going through very challenging times with the majority of companies now relying on their workload coming from across the water. As a result of this a lot of our home grown talent has had to leave in order to find work, a situation which is not always through choice.

Q: Did you plan to get involved in the construction industry?

No, I didn’t at first. I graduated with a first class honours in business and computing and started my career in IT ten years ago. At that time I wasn’t aware of the roles available to me within the construction industry. I never envisaged working in construction and it has opened up lots of opportunities for me to progress and fulfil my potential, using my business degree as a foundation.

Q: How did you start off?

I began my career working for Amey Plc in their IT department. I was given the opportunity to move to the Venture Capital division of the company and I accepted. Through this role I interacted with a number of local construction companies and was later headhunted to assist in setting up the Northern Ireland bid

“I love working at GilbertAsh, the work is extremely challenging though very rewarding and I am inspired every single day.” operation for an Irish construction contractor, as their Bid Manager.

From there I moved to another local contractor, Henry Brothers.

I started working for Gilbert-Ash in 2013 where I now manage and lead the bid team. I love working at Gilbert-Ash, the work is extremely challenging though very rewarding and I am inspired every single day by the talent, commitment, skill and culture of teamwork that exists in my company.

Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

Working on and winning one of

the largest public/private finance initiatives in Northern Ireland to date, the £500m Belfast Schools Partnership. This was a fantastic opportunity to work on such a high profile, high value tender, which would shape the future of education infrastructure in Northern Ireland. I was also very proud to set up a successful Northern Ireland bid operation for two different construction companies.

Q: What was the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

The ABCD bidding rule. Accept nothing. Be honest. Check everything.

Q: What needs to be done to help the NI construction sector?

Our current reliance on construction work in Great Britain and further afield is a worry. Political instability is driving this change, along with a lack of confidence in the Executive. We need more investment and a more efficient and faster decision making process in order to grow the local economy and regain confidence.

Q: Tell us something surprising about yourself...

I used to be a radio DJ! When I was at school I was a DJ on my parent’s radio station at the weekends. It was called K.L.A.S Radio on 828MW. We played mainly country music. I helped my dad to build the radio transmission towers and have climbed them when no-one was looking! We currently lease the recording studio and equipment, and it now operates on 549MW.