Specify June/July 2013

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

JUNE/JulY 2013

£3.00

digest |03

james greer Publisher CAROLINE McCLEAN Sales Manager SIOBHAN KISSWARD Acting Manager HELEN WRIGHT Art Editor STUART GRAY Production Manager SUBSCRIPTIONS: (UK £18.00 Outside UK £27.50) PUBLISHERS: James & Gladys Greer

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Northern Ireland firms winning £9m a year from London office contracts

L

ondon’s booming office developments are delivering multi-million pound annual dividends and sustaining hundreds of jobs a year in Northern Ireland.

According to a new report from advisors, PwC, between 2008 and 2016, 38 central London office developments will have delivered £1.7bn of Gross Value Added (GVA) a year to the UK economy, much of it going to the UK regions, ranging from around £9m a year to Northern Ireland and 230 jobs annually in NI. The report, prepared for the business group London First, says that for every £100m spent in the UK on the capital’s office development programme, £54m goes to regions outside London, buying construction supplies, specialist engineering and skilled labour. This research represents just a fraction of London’s overall construction activity.

Commenting on the report, Kevin MacAllister, PwC Northern Ireland partner said: “There has been anecdotal evidence of Northern Ireland construction companies working first on the Olympics and subsequently on London’s office development programme.

“This report now places a value on the work in terms of cash and jobs and underlines the sheer scale of London’s development and construction market. There are clearly real opportunities for local firms – particularly in some of the specialist trades like cladding and specialist mechanical supplies where over three-quarters of that spend still goes outside the UK. “Overall, this serves to show how UK regions like Northern Ireland can share in the prosperity of the buoyant London office market.”

PwC also found that construction work in central London supports almost twice as many jobs outside London as it does in the capital, with

Exceptional site management Award for McAleer & Rushe

the 12,200 jobs supported in the capital annually, dwarfed by the 22,400 supported elsewhere in the UK. Obviously there is potential to generate further economic benefits for Northern Ireland, by increasing capability in goods and services that the UK currently needs.

Prestigious Award for McAleer & Rushe McAleer & Rushe have just completed a flagship design and build office project for British Land in the heart of London’s West End, and top UK REIT British Land has awarded them it’s 2013 Award for Exceptional Site Management for “exceptional work on 10 Portman Square.”.

The seven storey building, which includes retail units at ground and lower ground levels, was completed on time and on budget and is already 51% let and has been achieving record rents. The handsome building designed by architects Jestico+Whiles boasts column-free floorplates of 18,500 sq ft, a dramatic curved roof

and large terraces offering dramatic views across London. Situated on an island site and with floor to ceiling glazing, the building benefits from excellent natural light on all sides.

McAleer & Rushe construction director Martin Magee said: “We are very proud to have delivered a superlative office development on time and on budget. It has been a great privilege working with British Land to deliver such an exemplar office scheme on a challenging central London site. It gives us great satisfaction to know it has already garnered considerable acclaim from property and architecture experts, which is also being recognised in the rents achieved.”

Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco Overseas is the most recent occupier to sign at 10 Portman Square, taking the fourth and fifth floors which represent circa 33,700 sq ft. They join Aspect Capital, who will take 24,520 sq ft of office space on the top two floors of the building.

salesbelfast@kccarchitectural.com Tel: 028 9046 9914

JUNE/JULY 2013

contents...

3

Digest

News from across the industry starts here.

26

CEF News

49

Directory

62

Product News

The Construction Employers Federation update on activities.

Your essential guide to products and services for construction in Northern Ireland.

The latest and greatest products and projects.

64

Price Watch

VB Evans delivers its regular update on material prices.

16| Diamond Systems

Diamond Systems |17

Diamond Partner with Siemens to embrace recent changes to fire safety legislation

D

iamond Electronic Systems Limited, a local independently owned fire and security company based in Belfast, has recently been appointed a Siemens Solution Partner.

Celebrating the recent accolade, Diamond’s Managing Director Steve Snoddon said, “As standards tighten on fire safety, Diamond’s direct access to the Siemens range of products and support, means cost effective solutions for our customers that are fully compliant with all applicable BS and EN standards. Smart products with remote access and unique safety features mean customers can have more safety for less money.”

Company founder, and chairman of the Northern Ireland committee of the Fire Industry Association, Tom Snoddon, established the business in the late 1980s to create a company that was large enough to perform but small enough to be personal.

“My vision for the company was of a local, family run business but one which had access to the innovation and know-how of the world’s leading manufacturers. Over the years we have partnered with Honeywell, General Electric (GE), and United Technologies Corporation (UTC) and we are delighted to now become a Siemens Solution Partner in recognition of our competence and knowledge of the fire industry”.

Partners that operate with the Siemens Solution Partner label have to continuously prove their expertise, performance, and knowledge in all aspects of the business. Steve commented, “The partnership is also good news for our staff as Siemens provide world-class training on products and fire standards to

“DIAMOND SYSTEMS HAVE ALWAYS LED THE WAY IN TERMS OF QUALITY ACCREDITATIONS AND NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH SIEMENS TO DELIVER A FULLY COMPLIANT SOLUTION AT A COMPETITIVE PRICE” Steve Snoddon, Managing Director, Diamond Electronic Systems Limited ensure competence. This helps set us apart from many of our competitors who are cutting back on training in an effort to reduce overheads”.

Customers gain the assurance that Diamond Systems have the expertise to deliver, and engineers have direct

access to Siemens technical support to assist with fault diagnosis when on site.

Siemens Solution Partners benefit from the expertise of a worldwide manufacturer and global innovator who have more than 60

million Siemens detectors installed worldwide, have over 450 employees in research and development, and own one of the largest private fire test laboratories which evaluates data material from over 5,000 fire behaviour tests.

Through the partnership, Diamond can offer customers the Cerberus Pro range, the latest “state of the art” product from Siemens. The range is the culmination of over 70 years of research and development in automatic smoke detection. Siemens have strived to develop smoke detectors that don’t false alarm and now with ASA (Advanced Signal Analysis) optical detectors, Diamond installed Siemens systems can virtually eliminate false alarms due to steam, aerosols, exhaust fumes, cooking fumes, cigarette smoke, welding smoke, dust, insects, dry ice and even the dreaded “burnt toast”.

Cerberus Pro also benefits the environment and end client by having Cerberus Remote diagnostics in-built, enabling Diamond Systems to remotely interrogate the system before a call-out ensuring instant response and importantly reducing un-necessary visits to site for simple operator errors or simple fixes.

Cerberus Pro offers True Open Protocol and has the only EN54 approved Ethernet network, helping reduce cabling between buildings, allowing easy integration with other building systems and providing virtual networks. Cerberus Pro has in-built BACnet open protocol communication and connects to all Siemens security, BMS, HVAC, KNX and lighting controls products and many more third party systems to provide truly Intelligent Buildings.

The Diamond-Siemens partnership coincides with important changes to the code of practice for fire detection and alarm systems introduced in March 2013. The revised code of practice, entitled “BS 5839-1:2013 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for building - Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises”, contains important changes to the design, testing and certification of the products installed in non-domestic premises, with a particular focus on residential care homes and those premises which can sleep more than ten people.

Fire codes of practice have been the subject of review following the findings of the inquiry into the Rose Park Care Home fire in which 14 elderly residents died when a fire which started in an electrical cupboard spread throughout the residential home in Uddington, Scotland. The inquiry concluded that the deaths could have been prevented by a “suitable and sufficient” fire safety plan. The fatal accident inquiry criticised the local

As a leading Global manufacturer, the Siemens Cerberus Pro system is required to meet all standards, codes of practice and legislation in every market, so fully complies with even the most stringent of requirements and offers the highest degree of safety features with redundancy built into every device and panel, including full degrade mode of operation where the system will still continue to detect fires, operate the sounders and outputs and importantly alert the fire brigade even in the event of a main panel or software failure. Every device also incorporates “turbo” isolation and ensures that not a single device is lost if a short circuit occurs and importantly no noticeable loss of operation to any of the devices even in an alarm condition. health board for not detecting fire risks, and found rescue efforts were hampered when staff at the care home delayed calling the fire brigade for nine minutes after the fire broke out.

The key changes introduced by the code are as follows: • Addressable systems (i.e. those which individually identify each detector or call point on a fire alarm panel - to easily pinpoint the precise location of a fire) must be installed in all premises that would require assistance to evacuate (e.g. hospitals and care homes), and also those properties which have facilities for more than ten people to sleep • Residential care homes must now automatically transmit fire alarm signals to an Alarm Receiving Centre to ensure immediate response from the Fire Brigade • An up to date zone plan must now be adjacent to all Control Indicating Equipment • The “responsible person” is now clearly defined as “Premises Management”

• Visual alarm devices (detectors which have also a flashing strobe to alert those with a hearing impairment) must now comply with European Standard EN 54-23 • Emergency voice messages must now be tested monthly • There are new restrictions on ceiling height limits for automatic detection The standard also makes reference to third party accreditation as a means of ensuring products are fit for purpose (BS EN54 Part 13). Steve commented, “We have always led the way in terms of quality accreditations and new technologies and look forward to working with Siemens to deliver a compliant solution at a competitive price”. Diamond Systems have all the leading industry accreditations including NSI Gold (NACOSS) for both security and fire (the first Northern Ireland company to obtain Gold in both), BAFE SP203 Scheme, Safe-T-Cert, and ISO 9001:2008.

Derrick Hall – Head of Siemens Fire Products says “Obviously with such a powerful system it has to

SAVINGS

T

he newly refurbished Derg Valley Leisure Centre in the County Tyrone town of Castlederg looks like it has been completely rebuilt, such is the attractive nature of the finish, having used sophisticated cladding products supplied

by Swiss Facades. The main contractor was Lowry Bros and architect, Tracey Architects.

Although it originally opened in the early 1980s, with an image based on an industrial functional aesthetic - a steel framed structure with robust brown brick cladding to the ground floor and lightweight metal cladding and roof to the upper floor – there’s very little of that original facade still visible in the summer of 2013.

By 2010 Strabane District Council had decided that the Centre needed to upgrade some of its facilities to better meet the needs of the community and people’s general approach to health and fitness to make the Centre more appealing and economically viable and sustainable.

John Stewart, the Chief District Building Control Officer commenting: “The façade of the building has been transformed with the installation of the Eternit Swisspearl panels.

“We now have a modern contemporary look as well as achieving environmental and durability gains.

“The graduated colour scheme gives the building a new sense of character and a much improved aesthetic,” he added.

Peter Tracey of Tracey Architects explained their approach was to open up the front façade to give the

be delivered by trained, competent people and organisations, as such we are delighted that Diamond Systems have chosen to be our partner as they have demonstrated quality over their successful and long history and by achieving the highest third party accreditations”.

Steve concludes, “The ability to offer a compliant product using smart technology, delivered by a high quality service company means our systems will meet and exceed our customers’ requirements and provide a total cost of ownership which cannot be matched by our competitors.”

Diamond offer a risk assessment and survey service to support customers in their understanding of the fire standards and codes of practice, and are also running a series of CPD accredited seminars at their premises in Heron Road, Belfast to provide further information on the recent changes in fire standards. To enquire about your free place or to discuss any aspects of electronic fire and security, please email info@ diamondsystems.co.uk.

Company founder, and chairman of the Northern Ireland committee of the Fire Industry Association, Tom Snoddon.

Diamond Electronic Systems Ltd. 5 Heron Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT3 9HB. T: +44(0)28 9020 7207 F: +44(0)28 9020 7208 W: www.diamondsystems.co.uk

Swiss Facades |21

parties so that young children are introduced to the concept of going to the local leisure centre at an early age and learn the importance of activity and play as they progress into the sports hall and fitness suites as they grow older, The building works have a low energy approach with natural ventilation to the Fitness suites and Spinning Rooms.

Fitness Suite and Spinning Rooms a shop window to advertise the Centre’s new activities using floor to ceiling curtain wall glazing. The profiled metal cladding has been replaced with a lightweight fibre cement rainscreen cladding arranged in a seemingly haphazard harmony, its blue and grey tones give the centre a new dynamic and cool energy and provides a striking statement along the main road to Strabane.

Peter Tracey added that Anne Hurl of Swiss Facades worked diligently with us in the layout of the panels and her presence on site during construction and installation ensured excellent quality control.

The entire Centre is now an open advertisement for sport and leisure with internal glazed screens between the Fitness Suite and Sports Hall creating a bright open and airy atmosphere where different activities visually interact one with the other.

There is space for bouncy castle and

To achieve the end result Anne Hurl of Swiss Facades worked closely with Tracey Architects as well as the main contractor Lowry Brothers to facilitate the vision and desired outcome of the new look.

Anne explained, Swiss Facades management of projects is vital to its successes. By collaborating onsite with other elements of the building envelope, ensures that the schedule of works is accommodated within the time-scale given. Our aim is to provide onsite solutions and to make the installation of the panels made simple. .As John Lowry acknowledged: “With Anne there’s full on-site participation so that when things changed – as they invariably do – she was there to liaise between the client, architect and our site management team to ensure the project ran smoothly.”

Anne explained further that one of the processes is to reduce wastage.

By liaising with both the Architect and builder this was achieved through careful optimisation of panels by calculating the percentage waste in order to gain maximum panel yield. By initiating this procedure the

“THE FAÇADE OF THE BUILDING HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED WITH THE INSTALLATION OF THE ETERNIT SWISSPEARL PANELS. WE NOW HAVE A MODERN CONTEMPORARY LOOK AS WELL AS ACHIEVING ENVIRONMENTAL AND DURABILITY GAINS. THE GRADUATED COLOUR SCHEME GIVES THE BUILDING A NEW SENSE OF CHARACTER AND A MUCH IMPROVED AESTHETIC,” John Stewart, the Chief District Building Control Officer.

percentage wastage on the project was reduced to 11.65%.

The whole process was timely.

Panels were manufactured in advance and held in stock. This enabled the builder to carry on with work. A final cutting schedule was compiled after the supporting frame was installed and by using a computerised ordering and cutting system, panels were then delivered within a few weeks to site pre-cut and ready to install.

“Some 792 metres were cut and fabricated in the factory, rather than on site,” “This was in fact more than 80% of the whole cladding contract being pre-cut before delivered to site.

“It also meant much less debris generated when the contractors are working on site as well as there being vastly less dust exposure for workers.”

John Lowry of Lowry Brothers Ltd said Anne’s project management of the façade envelopment and delivery on schedule and onsite installation guidance proved very effective in meeting the overall Contract Programme. Prior installation of the framing and use of pre-cut cladding boards saved both time and labour costs, and reduced waste onsite in compliance with Lowry Bros’ Environmental Management System business and achieving ‘Chartered Building Company’ status.

WARRANTY ON INSTALLATION

Swiss Facades are the sole distributors in Ireland and provide not only bespoke cladding panels, but also provide the warranty on the installation when fixed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

An onsite inspection and report is submitted during installation which outline any discrepancies and standard of workmanship. A final inspection and report is made when the work is completed, A warranty is issued and this gives the client the extra reassurances that standards of installation have been met. This warranty is a unique offering from the manufacturers Eternit Swisspearl which underpins the companies reputation and high standard of products produced.

Therefore Swisspearl in conjunction with Swiss Facades are pleased to issue the client with a 10 year warranty on the installation for the Derg Valley project.

42| Off-Shore Wind Terminal

Transforming Exterior Facades “ANNE HURL OF SWISS FACADES WORKED DILIGENTLY WITH THE ARCHITECT IN THE LAYOUT OF THE PANELS AND HER PRESENCE ON SITE DURING CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION ENSURED EXCELLENT QUALITY CONTROL.”

20 Swiss Facades

Peter Tracey of Tracey Architects.

KEY FACTS Client – Belfast Harbour Commissioners Value - £51.5million Form of Contract – FIDIC Programme – 64 weeks

Swisspearl cladding gives Derg Valley Leisure Centre ‘New Lease of life’

BUILDING CIVIL ENGINEERING DEMOLITION PLANT HIRE As main contractor on the refurbishment of Derg Valley Leisure Centre, we are pleased to have worked with Swiss Facades and wish them continued success

PROPERTY RECYCLING

91 Drumquin Road

Telephone:

Email:

Castlederg

028 8167 1426

info@lowrybrosltd.co.uk

Co. Tyrone

Fax:

Website:

BT81 7RQ

028 8167 1227

www.lowrybrosltd.co.uk

Off-Shore Wind Terminal |43

42 Off-Shore Wind

Terminal

THE QUAY wall was constructed over both land and water utilising 32m long 1.6m tubular piles in combination with 22m long sheet piles. The combiwall was tied back to a reinforced concrete anchor beam supported on 367 30m long 760mm raking tubes which were anchored to the rock. A total of 30,000m³ of concrete was used during the construction of the crane beam which is supported on 780 750mm piles.

Works also included the dredging of the new berth and approaches that involved the disposal of 600,000m3 of material to sea, with the treatment and disposal of 20,000m³ of contaminated material to land.

Approximately 150,000T of rock armour was placed beside the quay wall as protection for the seabed from the jack up barges that use the new quay facility.

The contract also required the development of 50 acres of hinterland. This involved the placement of 900,000m2 of geotextile and 1,000,000T of aggregate to construct a 200,000m² of heavy duty unbound pavement. General services were also installed to supply the future renewables hub. The project was completed in 59 weeks.

Diamond Partner with Siemens to embrace recent changes to fire safety legislation

“MY VISION FOR THE COMPANY WAS OF A LOCAL, FAMILY RUN BUSINESS BUT ONE WHICH HAD ACCESS TO THE INNOVATION AND KNOW-HOW OF THE WORLD’S LEADING MANUFACTURERS.”

20| Swiss Facades

Swisspearl cladding gives Derg Valley Leisure Centre ‘New lease of life’

16 Diamond Systems

n ctio stru Con

13 s 20 d r Awa

£50m Offshore Wind Terminal

£50m Offshore Wind Terminal

Farrans Construction delivers the first purposebuilt off-shore wind installation and pre-assembly harbour in the UK and Ireland

T

he 50-acre terminal, located on the County Down side of the Port, is the largest single investment in Belfast Harbour’s history. Built by local construction company Farrans, the project took 15-months, 750,000 man hours, one million tonnes of stones and 30,000 tonnes of concrete to complete.

The 200,000 m2 facility, large enough to accommodate 30 football pitches, includes a 480m deep-water quayside. Up to three vessels will be able to berth simultaneously with access available around the clock.

DONG Energy has signed a lease for the terminal which will be used initially to support the development of the West of Duddon Sands Wind farm in the Irish Sea , a joint venture between ScottishPower Renewables and DONG Energy.

Over 100 turbines, each with a rotor diameter of 120m, will be shipped from the new terminal to the West of Duddon Sands project.

It will be one of the world’s largest offshore wind farms when it is commissioned in 2014.

30 CEF/Specify

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contents |05

18 Transforming Exterior Facades

63 Holly Stanley

Peace of mind without braking the bank Holly Stanley of Willis & Company Private Clients on High Value Home Insurance

Page 31

Farrans makes a big splash with Bangor’s Aurora 66 KNI Interview

Simon Murray is Head of Structured Cabling at Belfast- based KNI

6| university of ulster

Creating the

university

of the future?

Amanda Poole takes a look at the potential regeneration effect of the University of Ulster’s Greater Belfast Development project.

B

y 2018 the bulk of the University of Ulster’s current activity at its Jordanstown campus will be relocated to the heart of Belfast city centre.

The campus on York Street, affectionately known by many as the Art College, currently houses around 2,000 students, but by the time the £250m Greater Belfast Development project is complete there will be 15,000 people studying there with around 6,000 on campus each day.

Meanwhile, Jordanstown will retain its sports facilities, some specialist engineering study and student residences.

Creating a new 75,000sq ft site in Belfast throws up a series of challenges but has the potential to boost construction, retail, hospitality, tourism and the property market as well as transforming the vibe in the city centre.

UU’s pro-vice chancellor for development, Professor Alastair Adair, heads the Greater Belfast Development project.

“Many people are referring to this as the regeneration opportunity of the century, we believe it is the regeneration, economic, business and social opportunity of the century,” Professor Adair said.

“It’s a big challenge to deliver it but it is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

It will transform people’s lives for the better.”

UU is currently ranked sixth in the UK for widening access for young people from disadvantaged communities, so its new neighbours in North Belfast will be an area of focus.

Professor Adair’s team looked to Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, Cambridge University and the London School of Economics for inspiration when developing the project as part of the UU’s commitment to the long-term future of higher education in Northern Ireland.

“We have to ensure this building meets the education purpose of the university,” he said.

“It’s very clear from other universities you have to change the culture when you move to a new building. We are reaching out to disadvantaged communities, the business community, the Executive and the council. It’s a tremendous opportunity to look at what the university does. Learning is changing and the new building has to reflect that.”

If the move was just a case of upping sticks and providing no added value there would no point to it, says Adair, who sees faculties being close

university of ulster |7 together as an exciting opportunity for spin off benefits.

Concerns about the impact of the new campus are being raised by architect Mark Hackett, formerly a partner in Hackett Hall McKnight, who won the competition to design Belfast’s MAC arts centre.

He is the director of The Forum for Alternative Belfast, a community interest company that campaigns for a better and more equitable built environment. On the UU issue it has been helping the Campus Development Group (CDG), newly formed of the neighbourhoods near to the upcoming project.

He said: “There are massive questions left hanging about an influx of cars and speculators hovering the area with a ‘High rise Holylands’ risk of dysfunctional, poorly designed student housing evolving - all this cheek by jowl with some of the UK’s poorest neighbourhoods, which are under huge stress. People are trying to highlight that all this needs resolution, and it needs the neighbourhoods and community sector to be fully part of solving those risks.”

Professor Adair is co-author of UU’s regular house price surveys and said the impact on the property market is “bound to be positive” but is clear “the last thing we want is a repeat of the Holylands” an area of South Belfast densely populated with higher education students, many from nearby Queen’s University.

“Planning policy is no more than 30% multiple occupancy but in Holylands that has grown to over 60%,” he said. “Around 65% of the population are under 25 so you have an imbalanced community. We cannot have the same policy failure in North Belfast as we have had in South Belfast.”

Professor Alastair Adair acknowledges the influx of students will provide a challenge to governance in the city, but says it will be a force for good and encourages “a ramp up of economic activity”.

He said his team is keen to work with the planning authority, Belfast City Council, local residents and anyone else with a stake in the area.

“The Northern edge is one of the forgotten parts of Belfast and has always been an interface and an area in need of upgrading. The biggest challenge is going to be the joined up approach from government,” he said.

There are currently 2,300 car park spaces at Jordanstown but this sort of provision will not be available at the Belfast campus, so a “modal shift” is required.

“We have to change travel patterns

“The £250m investment sends a strong signal of confidence which will not go unnoticed by those considering investing in the city.” and reduce the dependency on cars.

I live in Newtownards and have already started coming in on the bus,” Professor Adair said.

“Belfast doesn’t have a major resident parking scheme, like Dublin or Glasgow. If there is a lack of joined up thinking and if 2,500 car parkers come into the centre of Belfast you will have a shambles. We are meeting with Translink and DRD to ensure joined up thinking.”

The buildings for the new campus were acquired without the need for compulsory purchase powers and as the University of Ulster had a royal charter and is a charitable institution it has gone to the capital market to fund the project.

The Department of Employment and Learning are providing £16m and a syndicate of banks are providing the rest, which the University will pay back over a 20 to 25 year period.

“To service that mortgage we are setting aside £18m each year from the annual income of £200m,” Professor Adair said. “£10m will be spent on the new campus and the other £8m on the North West Campus at Coleraine and Magee. £10m per year for Belfast over 20 to 25 years gives you £250m, so we are in effect educating 50% of our students for 5% of our income.

As a householder if you were able to do that you would be doing very well; our auditors say it’s a great deal.”

Carol Ramsey, chair of the Royal Town Planning Institute in Northern

Ireland (RTPI NI) said it supports a diverse mix of uses in city centres.

“Belfast is the main economic driver of the whole of Northern Ireland,” she said.

“The University’s development plans sit alongside a range of initiatives planned for this section of the city. These include the Department of Social Development’s proposals for Northside Urban Village, the Royal Exchange regeneration project, the public realm proposals outlined in Belfast Streets Ahead phase 3 and continuing work ongoing in the Cathedral Cultural quarter which are all in close proximity to the new UU site,” she added.

“The combination of these initiatives will enhance connections between the north-side of the city centre and the retail core through to the City Hall. This University development has the opportunity to harness the regeneration opportunity of Town and Gown in Belfast city centre.”

Meanwhile, Helen Harrison, director of JUNO Planning and Environmental Ltd, the planning consultant for UU’s Belfast city campus, said it is extremely proud to be involved in such an exciting and ambitious project.

“The design team has developed the University’s bold vision to create a series of civic educational buildings which respect the history of the city as it is today and which will become a focal point in Belfast for many future

generations to come,” she said.

“The new Belfast City Campus will have a huge regenerative and transformational impact on this run down part of the city, bringing 15,000 students and staff into the city and creating learning and business opportunities for the communities surrounding it,” the consultant added.

“The campus is central to Belfast City Council’s Investment Programme 2012-2015, with wide ranging benefits across many sectors including existing businesses, culture, communities and, notably, the beleaguered construction industry. The guaranteed investment of £250m sends a strong signal of investor confidence which will not go unnoticed by those considering investing in the city and the wider region.”

Ms Harrison explained the significant benefits of this type of investment are well recognised and clearly evidenced, noting that a Universities UK 2010 report highlighted UK higher education generates nearly £60bn for the economy with a multiplier effect of 3:1 and evidence from evaluation studies of UK regeneration projects indicates that for every £1 of public sector investment, up to £5 of private sector expenditure can be leveraged.

On the impact of construction specifically, every £1 invested in construction generates £2.84 in total economic activity according to a 2009 UK Construction Group report.

David Gavaghan, the chief executive of Titanic Quarter Limited, said at a macro level the project is “unbelievably good news for Belfast”.

Gavaghan, who has a background in property, infrastructure and project finance remarked tongue in cheek, the “the only mistake was not to relocate to Titanic Quarter”.

“I’m a product of Trinity College Dublin and one of the joys of studying there is you are right in the heart of the city centre. Queen’s is beautiful but it is outside the core,” he said.

“UU has some great disciplines – like art, architecture and business – so the new campus can only be a good thing. To me the challenge will be how we build upon the next thing,” he added.

“Belfast has to become a global city.

Our great challenge is to absolutely focus on that, because if Belfast works, Northern Ireland works.

There needs to be a focus on the restoration and revival of inner Belfast and a linking of the quarters.”

For more about the new UU Belfast campus visit www.ulster.ac.uk/ greaterbelfastdevelopment/

8| Skainos

Let’s Talk ‘Decorative Concrete’

“EXPOSA® is a durable, slip resistant finish ideal for outdoor surfaces, including driveways, footpaths, promenades, town centres and pedestrian zones.”

T

he Skainos development is a key element in the transformation and renewal of the Newtownards Road – the gateway to East Belfast.

Those involved in the project were delighted to pick up three awards at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors Awards Ceremony on 10th May 2013. The awards were – Highly Commended in the Regeneration category and winners of the Community Benefit category and they also won the Best Overall Project 2013 – a fabulous achievement!

The most recent development has been the community allotment area that will see fruit and vegetables grown in raised beds by community volunteers and local children, amongst others, meant that a durable finish was required. The specifiers chose

EXPOSA® decorative concrete

by RTU for the walkway areas as it offers a hard wearing and aesthetically pleasing alternative to not only plain concrete, but also traditional paving, asphalt and loose gravel.

The EXPOSA® range comes in a wide variety of colours and textures, offering the designer a multitude of combinations. It sits well within a rustic setting as well as a modern minimalist environment complementing the surrounding landscape.

Matthew Mitchell, Martin Contract Services Ltd, commented “This is our first time to use exposa.

We were very impressed not only with the product but also the workmanship of the finished result. Overall a great job.”

For more information on EXPOSA please visit our website www.rtu.co.uk or call 028 9085 1441.

digest

10|

Brick Bits...

The Titanic Belfast exhibition centre has exceeded all expectations by attracting over 800,000 visitors in its first year – nearly double the target its operators were set. Titanic Quarter was highly commended in the regeneration category of the UK-wide Property Week Awards. The Belfast development was the only non-English finalist at the awards, coming ahead of schemes such as London’s new Olympic Park and Wembley City, an 85-acre redevelopment beside the stadium.

Under new plans, private sector companies are now being encouraged to apply for the Customer Service Excellence Standard (CSE), initially set up to help improve customer service within the public sector.

The CSE standard tests areas of importance as outlined by customers themselves, such as delivery, timeliness, information, professionalism and staff attitude. For more information please visit http://www. customerserviceexcellence.uk.com Ready-to-assemble furniture firm IKEA has turned to the UK’s artificial grass specialists to create a readymade summer lawn for its outdoor product displays.

James Nicol, LazyLawn licensee for Belfast, was recently selected by the Belfast IKEA at the Holywood Exchange Retail Park to install 100 square metres of its low maintenance, hard wearing Wonder Yarn.

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Green Deal could stall without SME support Small building companies need fairer access to the Green Deal (GD) market if the shortage of installers is to be addressed, warns the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to the latest statistics from the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC).

Almost 19,000 GD assessments were carried out as of the end of April 2013, yet there are only 942 GD installer companies approved to carry out this work – nowhere near enough to deliver energy-efficiency improvements to Britain’s 26 million existing homes by 2050.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of

the FMB, said: “There are more than 240,000 companies in the construction industry that employ fewer than 14 people. These companies are often best placed to carry out Green Deal work, but because it is difficult to access the market, they are reluctant to train the number of approved installers needed to retrofit Britain’s building stock.”

To help address this, the FMB has launched its ‘Strategy for the Low Carbon Building and Refurbishment Market’, which is aimed at encouraging and supporting its members to engage with and participate in this rapidly growing market.

Berry continued: “Our new strategy will help increase opportunities for SMEs in the lowcarbon refurbishment market. The statistics from DECC show our strategy is well timed. The Green Deal has now been open for business for almost four months and demand for work under the initiative appears to be growing, but it still feels like a missed opportunity to the majority of SMEs in the industry who haven’t seen any sign of transformation in the energy-efficiency market.”

To read the FMB’s ‘Strategy for the Low Carbon Building and Refurbishment Market’ in full, please visit bit.ly/14jll8u.

KCC are delighted to announce that five more of their staff has been awarded Diploma’s from The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers. Our new diploma holders are Paul Webb (Dublin branch), Ricky McClean (Belfast branch), Brian Hennessy (Cork branch), Justin McKeown (Dublin branch) and Andy McMeekin (Belfast branch).

This Diploma is the culmination of three years of study and certifies that that the holder has a broad knowledge and understanding of ironmongery and the European Standards which enables them to discuss ironmongery requirements for projects with architects, building/joinery contractors, building managers and even homeowners.

No other scheme offers such a broad knowledge and understanding of ironmongery which is why it is the most recognized qualification in the industry.

Concrete Repair Association welcomes Mapeiup for £1.2m Castle snapped Mapei are delighted to announce their membership acceptance to the Concrete Repair Association (CRA). As manufacturers of a wide range of Concrete Repair, Structural Strengthening, Waterproofing and Protective Coating products, Mapei look forward to contributing to the CRA, sharing expertise and engaging with fellow members in this specialist sector. Mapei’s fully comprehensive building line includes technologically advanced and sustainable products,

such as their fibre-reinforced repair mortar range and the newly launched product Re-con Zero.

Re-con Zero is Mapei’s sustainable solution to concrete waste, turning un-used concrete into re-usable aggregate with Zero Impact. The innovative product has the advantage of turning waste concrete into re-usable aggregate at the concrete plant without the need to re-direct the concrete to a specialist reclaiming unit.

The CRA is a recognised forum to

promote and develop the practice of concrete repair and allied disciplines, as well as advancing education, technical training and health and safety matters within the construction segment.

For more information visit Mapei’s website www.mapei.co.uk or call +44 (0)121 508 6970.

Acheson & Glover |11

A&G’s best practice earns H&S Standard

A

cheson & Glover (A&G) Group, a leading manufacturer of premium quality hard landscaping and precast concrete products, has been accredited with the health & safety standard OHSAS 18001:2007. The accreditation follows successful independent audits encompassing A&G’s manufacturing, quarrying and precast installations.

OHSAS 18001:2007 is an international occupational health and safety management system that provides a framework to control health and safety risks and improve the health and safety of employees.

Group Chief Executive Raymond Acheson comments: “This recommendation demonstrates the care we take at every level of our business, from quarry to end consumer. Our attention to detail in everything that we do has ensured this recognition, building on our successful achievement of the Environmental International Standard ISO 14001. Architects, specifiers and builders’ merchants can trust that A&G will always apply best practices.” Visit www.acheson-glover.com

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12|

NI Water sows the seeds for a greener view at Wastewater Treatment Works Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy has welcomed the introduction of a unique planting programme to ‘green’ up the roof on NI Water’s new £8m extension to the wastewater treatment works at Newcastle harbour.

Using a special process known as hydroseeding, the top of the new 50m-long concrete structure has been sown out with a special mix of indigenous coastal seeds to provide a soft green area which not only offers a more attractive view for the overlooking properties, but which also provides a natural habitat for local birds and insects.

Congratulating everyone involved in the project, Minister Kennedy said: “The Mournes area is one of the most spectacular landscapes in Northern Ireland and all efforts to maintain its beauty and ecofriendliness are to be commended. It is important to protect our valuable scenic coastline and Newcastle Wastewater Treatment Works now blends in more with the natural surroundings.”

Acknowledging the input from local landscape and ecology experts, the Minister said: “In developing this green roof NI Water has been very fortunate to have been able to glean knowledge from a number of local

experts with experience of coastal areas, not least members of the Mourne Heritage Trust and I would like to thank them for the time that they have dedicated to this project so far. I know that they, along with NI Water, look forward to seeing how the ecological value of the area increases as the green roof matures.”

Kieran Grant, NI Water Project Manager for the scheme explained: “From the outset of this project our aim was to take all practical steps to minimise the visual impact of a large concrete structure on the shoreline within the Mournes Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and in doing so, enhance the ecological value of the area by providing a herb-rich coastal grassland habitat for plants, insects and birds.”

Working with local landscape experts from the County Down area and members of the Mourne Heritage Trust, NI Water devised a low-maintenance landscape plan that would be rich in biodiversity.

Bill McIlwaine, from Killinchy-based McIlwaine Landscape Architects, explained how the grey concrete structure was prepared to go green: “The make-up of the green roof comprises a drainage layer of natural gravel topped with a thin layer of lightweight soil laid on a separation/ filter membrane. Drifts of natural

Pictured L-R are: Patrick Hurst, MBE, Managing Director; Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Mayor of North Down, Councillor Wesley Irvine.

Doubling the company’s size, a second factory will house Whale’s specialised product analysis, climate testing facility, design and software development and polymer moulding centre.

Speaking during a tour of the factory the Minister said: “Munster Simms is an excellent example of a local company that has been developing a reputation for producing quality products, which not only meet, but exceed client expectations. This brand new factory will continue to allow the business to continue to grow.”

gravel and boulders from local gravel pits provide additional visual and ecological interest. The seeds for the natural grassland were sown by a process of hydroseeding which means they were mixed with water, fibres and binders and sprayed on to form a surface mulch which resists disturbance by wind and rain while germination takes place.”

All civil construction work on the new extension has been completed

and inside the new treatment works, mechanical and electrical work is continuing on the extensive reams of process systems required to operate the new plant. The extended treatment works has been equipped with a new UV treatment stream which is due to be brought on line at the end of May 2013. This will deliver an improved standard of discharge to local bathing waters in line with future European Directives.

(L-R) Kieran Grant, NI Water Project Manager, Fergus Bannon, Dawson-Wam Ovivo, Jo Whatmough, Mourne Heritage Trust & Martin Carey (far right – Mourne Heritage Trust) pictured with local landscape experts from Ellison Landscape Solutions (Crossgar), McIlwaine Landscape Architects (Killinchy) and Ecoseeds (Strangford) during the hydroseeding of the newly-extended roof at Newcastle WwTW

PRONET SAFETY SERVICES digest |07

Fall Arrest Cable System Skainos Building Belfast

ProNet’s number one priority is prevention by protection

W

ith the above in mind ProNet are pleased to announce that we now have a vast range of Working at Height equipment available for same day despatch from our premises. We now carry anything from a basic harness

to a specialised harness for the most extreme environments along with lanyards and fall arrest blocks to suit all at competitive pricing and free delivery. With safety netting and edge protection the core end of the business we now feel

that the time is right to offer our customers a complete package ranging from installation, service, sales and repair. We have a temporary online shop to enable customers to see the product however in the next few months we will see

the launch of the new ProNet Safety Products online website.

Please feel free to contact our sales representative Iain Kelly who is happy to conduct a site visit, introduce samples or for some general advice on our new range.

Tel: 028 9337 3967 • Fax: 028 9335 3518 • Email: info@pronetsafetyservices.com • Web: www.pronetsafetyservices.com Web: www.pronetsafetyproducts.com

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14|

Brick Bits... >> cont'd from p10 The National Insulation Association’s (NIA) Annual Conference and Exhibition will take place on 5th December 2013 at Stratford upon-Avon. It is now regarded as the insulation industry event of the year and with over 350 delegates expected to attend this year, it will offer companies the opportunity to showcase their products and services to the insulation industry, government officials, energy suppliers and key stakeholders.

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence are set to be hotly contested with the 30 schemes shortlisted for five project categories, ranging from the regeneration of Kings Cross to public realm improvements in Singapore.

Shortlisted projects will now be further scrutinised by a panel of 24 expert judges, chaired by one of the world’s leading planner-architects, Sir Terry Farrell, before the category winners are announced on 10 July.

The National Institute for Economic and Social Research and the Office of National Statistics have released figures which indicate that the UK economy seems to be on the road to recovery. The overall economy grew by 0.8% in the three months ending at the end of April, with industrial production rising by 0.7% in March alone, largely as a result of a 1.1% rise in manufacturing. The figures demonstrate that Britain is pulling itself, slowly but surely, out of the recession, great news for those who own factories, or industrial sites.

Landmark McAleer & Rushe building in Edinburgh Topped-Out A key landmark in the construction of SOCO, a hotel and mixed-use development in Edinburgh McAleer & Rushe is building for Jansons Property was recently marked with a glittering topping out ceremony.

Situated on the west side of South Bridge on the south side of Cowgate the scheme is anchored by a 259-bedroom IBIS Hotel and a 4,708 sq ft Sainsburys Local and the La Belle Angele live music venue.

Work on site was suspended and over 100 of the great and the good of Edinburgh attended the ceremony on the 9th floor, while many intrepid guests braved the breezy top floor to enjoy the magnificent views. Andy Jansons, managing director of Jansons, told guests: “ The SOCO complex will breathe new life into South Bridge and the Cowgate by attracting quality retailers.”

Project manager Shane McCullagh

said: “McAleer & Rushe are particularly proud to be associated with the construction of handsome development which is delivering such key economic regeneration to Edinburgh.”

Councillor Frank Ross, convener of Edinburgh’s economy committee, added: “The regeneration of SOCO will bring to an end a ten-year period in which the site has blotted Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. I welcome the £35m investment

and also welcome the job creation through the new retail and business units. With a new, centrally located hotel, I am confident it will further increase Edinburgh’s tourism offer in this part of the Capital.”

McAleer & Rushe is currently working on two other projects in Scotland, a 100-room Premier Inn in Aberdeen, and a 100-room hotel on Shetland for Glasgow-based BDL Management which will be occupied by oil and gas giant Total.

Specially Designed For Modern Homes

Gyproc Wallboard Premium is the latest innovation from Gyproc Ireland. Gyproc Wallboard Premium is a high quality wallboard developed, designed and produced to deliver significantly improved performance in the residential market compared to standard wallboard.

Wallboard Premium’s distinct attributes offer homeowners the opportunity to upgrade their homes or specific rooms / areas within their home, whether undertaking

renovation work or a new build project.

• Impact resistance – Twice the impact resistance of standard wallboard Gyproc Wallboard Premium’s upgraded paper on the face of the board means it is twice as resistent to impacts compared to standard wallboard. Whether the impact comes from a door handle, bicycle, sliothar, childs toy or some other source, Wallboard Premium will withstand the impact to a significantly higher degree – reducing the occurances of damage and the regularity of repairs.

• Pull-out strength – Twice the pull-out strength of standard wallboard Gyproc Wallboard Premium’s specially developed board core contains glass fibre and means the pull-out strength of Wallboard Premium is twice that of standard wallboard. This has positive implications when it comes to hanging pictures, mirrors and shelves on walls and light or other fittings if the board is used for ceilings.

• Board strength – 25% stronger

board Gyproc Wallboard Premium’s design and production delivers an overall stronger board. With 25% increased board strength over standard wallboard, wallboard Premium will result in a stronger partition wall when installed.

• Enhanced acoustic performance - better sound insulation Gyproc Wallboard Premium‘s production results in a denser board than standard wallboard which means it delivers enhanced acoustic insulation performance.

Whether it’s to keep noise out of a room (bedroom) or inside a room (TV room, playroom), a denser wallboard will help.

Gyproc is the market leader in plaster, plasterboard and drylining systems, manufacturing in Ireland since 1936, with a long history of providing innovative, cost-effective 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.

16| Diamond Systems

Diamond Partner with Siemens to embrace recent changes to fire safety legislation

D

iamond Electronic Systems Limited, a local independently owned fire and security company based in Belfast, has recently been appointed a Siemens Solution Partner.

Celebrating the recent accolade, Diamond’s Managing Director Steve Snoddon said, “As standards tighten on fire safety, Diamond’s direct access to the Siemens range of products and support, means cost effective solutions for our customers that are fully compliant with all applicable BS and EN standards. Smart products with remote access and unique safety features mean customers can have more safety for less money.”

Company founder, and chairman of the Northern Ireland committee of the Fire Industry Association, Tom Snoddon, established the business in the late 1980s to create a company that was large enough to perform but small enough to be personal.

“My vision for the company was of a local, family run business but one which had access to the innovation and know-how of the world’s leading manufacturers. Over the years we have partnered with Honeywell, General Electric (GE), and United Technologies Corporation (UTC) and we are delighted to now become a Siemens Solution Partner in recognition of our competence and knowledge of the fire industry”.

Partners that operate with the Siemens Solution Partner label have to continuously prove their expertise, performance, and knowledge in all aspects of the business. Steve commented, “The partnership is also good news for our staff as Siemens provide world-class training on products and fire standards to

“Diamond Systems have always led the way in terms of quality accreditations and new technologies and look forward to working with Siemens to deliver a fully compliant solution at a competitive price” Steve Snoddon, Managing Director, Diamond Electronic Systems Limited ensure competence. This helps set us apart from many of our competitors who are cutting back on training in an effort to reduce overheads”.

Customers gain the assurance that Diamond Systems have the expertise to deliver, and engineers have direct

access to Siemens technical support to assist with fault diagnosis when on site.

Siemens Solution Partners benefit from the expertise of a worldwide manufacturer and global innovator who have more than 60

million Siemens detectors installed worldwide, have over 450 employees in research and development, and own one of the largest private fire test laboratories which evaluates data material from over 5,000 fire behaviour tests.

Diamond Systems |17 Through the partnership, Diamond can offer customers the Cerberus Pro range, the latest “state of the art” product from Siemens. The range is the culmination of over 70 years of research and development in automatic smoke detection. Siemens have strived to develop smoke detectors that don’t false alarm and now with ASA (Advanced Signal Analysis) optical detectors, Diamond installed Siemens systems can virtually eliminate false alarms due to steam, aerosols, exhaust fumes, cooking fumes, cigarette smoke, welding smoke, dust, insects, dry ice and even the dreaded “burnt toast”.

Cerberus Pro also benefits the environment and end client by having Cerberus Remote diagnostics in-built, enabling Diamond Systems to remotely interrogate the system before a call-out ensuring instant response and importantly reducing un-necessary visits to site for simple operator errors or simple fixes.

Cerberus Pro offers True Open Protocol and has the only EN54 approved Ethernet network, helping reduce cabling between buildings, allowing easy integration with other building systems and providing virtual networks. Cerberus Pro has in-built BACnet open protocol communication and connects to all Siemens security, BMS, HVAC, KNX and lighting controls products and many more third party systems to provide truly Intelligent Buildings.

The Diamond-Siemens partnership coincides with important changes to the code of practice for fire detection and alarm systems introduced in March 2013. The revised code of practice, entitled “BS 5839-1:2013 Fire detection and fire alarm systems for building - Code of practice for design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of systems in non-domestic premises”, contains important changes to the design, testing and certification of the products installed in non-domestic premises, with a particular focus on residential care homes and those premises which can sleep more than ten people.

Fire codes of practice have been the subject of review following the findings of the inquiry into the Rose Park Care Home fire in which 14 elderly residents died when a fire which started in an electrical cupboard spread throughout the residential home in Uddington, Scotland. The inquiry concluded that the deaths could have been prevented by a “suitable and sufficient” fire safety plan. The fatal accident inquiry criticised the local

As a leading Global manufacturer, the Siemens Cerberus Pro system is required to meet all standards, codes of practice and legislation in every market, so fully complies with even the most stringent of requirements and offers the highest degree of safety features with redundancy built into every device and panel, including full degrade mode of operation where the system will still continue to detect fires, operate the sounders and outputs and importantly alert the fire brigade even in the event of a main panel or software failure. Every device also incorporates “turbo” isolation and ensures that not a single device is lost if a short circuit occurs and importantly no noticeable loss of operation to any of the devices even in an alarm condition. health board for not detecting fire risks, and found rescue efforts were hampered when staff at the care home delayed calling the fire brigade for nine minutes after the fire broke out.

The key changes introduced by the code are as follows: • Addressable systems (i.e. those which individually identify each detector or call point on a fire alarm panel - to easily pinpoint the precise location of a fire) must be installed in all premises that would require assistance to evacuate (e.g. hospitals and care homes), and also those properties which have facilities for more than ten people to sleep • Residential care homes must now automatically transmit fire alarm signals to an Alarm Receiving Centre to ensure immediate response from the Fire Brigade • An up to date zone plan must now be adjacent to all Control Indicating Equipment • The “responsible person” is now clearly defined as “Premises Management”

• Visual alarm devices (detectors which have also a flashing strobe to alert those with a hearing impairment) must now comply with European Standard EN 54-23 • Emergency voice messages must now be tested monthly • There are new restrictions on ceiling height limits for automatic detection The standard also makes reference to third party accreditation as a means of ensuring products are fit for purpose (BS EN54 Part 13). Steve commented, “We have always led the way in terms of quality accreditations and new technologies and look forward to working with Siemens to deliver a compliant solution at a competitive price”. Diamond Systems have all the leading industry accreditations including NSI Gold (NACOSS) for both security and fire (the first Northern Ireland company to obtain Gold in both), BAFE SP203 Scheme, Safe-T-Cert, and ISO 9001:2008.

Derrick Hall – Head of Siemens Fire Products says “Obviously with such a powerful system it has to

be delivered by trained, competent people and organisations, as such we are delighted that Diamond Systems have chosen to be our partner as they have demonstrated quality over their successful and long history and by achieving the highest third party accreditations”.

Steve concludes, “The ability to offer a compliant product using smart technology, delivered by a high quality service company means our systems will meet and exceed our customers’ requirements and provide a total cost of ownership which cannot be matched by our competitors.”

Diamond offer a risk assessment and survey service to support customers in their understanding of the fire standards and codes of practice, and are also running a series of CPD accredited seminars at their premises in Heron Road, Belfast to provide further information on the recent changes in fire standards. To enquire about your free place or to discuss any aspects of electronic fire and security, please email info@ diamondsystems.co.uk.

“My vision for the company was of a local, family run business but one which had access to the innovation and know-how of the world’s leading manufacturers.”

Company founder, and chairman of the Northern Ireland committee of the Fire Industry Association, Tom Snoddon.

Diamond Electronic Systems Ltd. 5 Heron Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT3 9HB. T: +44(0)28 9020 7207 F: +44(0)28 9020 7208 W: www.diamondsystems.co.uk

06| digest

SWISSPEARL CARAT SL

SWISSPEARL REFLEX

SWISSPEARL XPRESSIV

Integrally coloured panel with either translucent or pigmented top layer, CARAT SL plays the lead role. The unique natural look and the timeless beauty of the monolithic material with its delicate vein texture provide an exciting and noble expression to buildings with special character

Mostly integrally coloured, these high tech panels bear an iridescent surface finishing on pure acrylic base. Changing lighting and angle of vision produce fascinating nuances in the colours. These directional panels come in 15 shades; they are particularly suited for contemporary buildings of any size and scope with a very modern architecture

Panels with a very vivid cement composite structure

PREMIUM

SWISS QUALITY

PANEL SYSTEMS

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

FOR HIGH END

ARCHITECTURE

Transforming Exterior Facades

digest |07

The Design Team: Architects: Tracey Architects, Derry Quantity Surveyor: J. McCauley QS, M&E Consultants: Burke Morrison Structural Engineer: Wallace Doherty Contract Value: ÂŁ588,000.00 Main Contractor: Lowry Bros. Castlederg

www.swissfacades.com

20| Swiss Facades

Swisspearl cladding gives Derg Valley Leisure Centre ‘New lease of life’ parties so that young children are introduced to the concept of going to the local leisure centre at an early age and learn the importance of activity and play as they progress into the sports hall and fitness suites as they grow older, The building works have a low energy approach with natural ventilation to the Fitness suites and Spinning Rooms.

SAVINGS

T

he newly refurbished Derg Valley Leisure Centre in the County Tyrone town of Castlederg looks like it has been completely rebuilt, such is the attractive nature of the finish, having used sophisticated cladding products supplied

by Swiss Facades. The main contractor was Lowry Bros and architect, Tracey Architects.

Although it originally opened in the early 1980s, with an image based on an industrial functional aesthetic - a steel framed structure with robust brown brick cladding to the ground floor and lightweight metal cladding and roof to the upper floor – there’s very little of that original facade still visible in the summer of 2013.

By 2010 Strabane District Council had decided that the Centre needed to upgrade some of its facilities to better meet the needs of the community and people’s general approach to health and fitness to make the Centre more appealing and economically viable and sustainable.

John Stewart, the Chief District Building Control Officer commenting: “The façade of the building has been transformed with the installation of the Eternit Swisspearl panels.

“We now have a modern contemporary look as well as achieving environmental and durability gains.

“The graduated colour scheme gives the building a new sense of character and a much improved aesthetic,” he added.

Peter Tracey of Tracey Architects explained their approach was to open up the front façade to give the

Fitness Suite and Spinning Rooms a shop window to advertise the Centre’s new activities using floor to ceiling curtain wall glazing. The profiled metal cladding has been replaced with a lightweight fibre cement rainscreen cladding arranged in a seemingly haphazard harmony, its blue and grey tones give the centre a new dynamic and cool energy and provides a striking statement along the main road to Strabane.

Peter Tracey added that Anne Hurl of Swiss Facades worked diligently with us in the layout of the panels and her presence on site during construction and installation ensured excellent quality control.

The entire Centre is now an open advertisement for sport and leisure with internal glazed screens between the Fitness Suite and Sports Hall creating a bright open and airy atmosphere where different activities visually interact one with the other.

There is space for bouncy castle and

To achieve the end result Anne Hurl of Swiss Facades worked closely with Tracey Architects as well as the main contractor Lowry Brothers to facilitate the vision and desired outcome of the new look.

Anne explained, Swiss Facades management of projects is vital to its successes. By collaborating onsite with other elements of the building envelope, ensures that the schedule of works is accommodated within the time-scale given. Our aim is to provide onsite solutions and to make the installation of the panels made simple. .As John Lowry acknowledged: “With Anne there’s full on-site participation so that when things changed – as they invariably do – she was there to liaise between the client, architect and our site management team to ensure the project ran smoothly.”

Anne explained further that one of the processes is to reduce wastage.

By liaising with both the Architect and builder this was achieved through careful optimisation of panels by calculating the percentage waste in order to gain maximum panel yield. By initiating this procedure the

“The façade of the building has been transformed with the installation of the Eternit Swisspearl panels. We now have a modern contemporary look as well as achieving environmental and durability gains. The graduated colour scheme gives the building a new sense of character and a much improved aesthetic,” John Stewart, the Chief District Building Control Officer.

percentage wastage on the project was reduced to 11.65%.

The whole process was timely.

Panels were manufactured in advance and held in stock. This enabled the builder to carry on with work. A final cutting schedule was compiled after the supporting frame was installed and by using a computerised ordering and cutting system, panels were then delivered within a few weeks to site pre-cut and ready to install.

“Some 792 metres were cut and fabricated in the factory, rather than on site,” “This was in fact more than 80% of the whole cladding contract being pre-cut before delivered to site.

“It also meant much less debris generated when the contractors are working on site as well as there being vastly less dust exposure for workers.”

John Lowry of Lowry Brothers Ltd said Anne’s project management of the façade envelopment and delivery on schedule and onsite installation guidance proved very effective in meeting the overall Contract Programme. Prior installation of the framing and use of pre-cut cladding boards saved both time and labour costs, and reduced waste onsite in compliance with Lowry Bros’ Environmental Management System business and achieving ‘Chartered Building Company’ status.

Warranty on Installation

Swiss Facades are the sole distributors in Ireland and provide not only bespoke cladding panels, but also provide the warranty on the installation when fixed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

An onsite inspection and report is submitted during installation which outline any discrepancies and standard of workmanship. A final inspection and report is made when the work is completed, A warranty is issued and this gives the client the extra reassurances that standards of installation have been met. This warranty is a unique offering from the manufacturers Eternit Swisspearl which underpins the companies reputation and high standard of products produced.

Therefore Swisspearl in conjunction with Swiss Facades are pleased to issue the client with a 10 year warranty on the installation for the Derg Valley project.

Swiss Facades |21

Transforming Exterior Facades “Anne Hurl of Swiss Facades worked diligently with the architect in the layout of the panels and her presence on site during construction and installation ensured excellent quality control.”

Peter Tracey of Tracey Architects.

Before

After

BUILDING CIVIL ENGINEERING DEMOLITION PLANT HIRE As main contractor on the refurbishment of Derg Valley Leisure Centre, we are pleased to have worked with Swiss Facades and wish them continued success

PROPERTY RECYCLING

91 Drumquin Road

Telephone:

Email:

Castlederg

028 8167 1426

info@lowrybrosltd.co.uk

Co. Tyrone

Fax:

Website:

BT81 7RQ

028 8167 1227

www.lowrybrosltd.co.uk

22| maze

The Maze holds promise of 5,000 jobs and £300m investment

Plans have been unveiled for what is expected to be Northern Ireland’s largest development site over the next decade, providing a huge boost to the local construction sector. But the Maze Long Kesh site is nothing if not controversial.

T

he Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation has unveiled plans that will make the former prison site Northern Ireland’s largest development, with the promise of 5,000 permanent jobs and £300m investment.

The Corporation estimated that, during the development phase, 2000 badly needed jobs could be created in the hard-pressed local construction industry – based on a formula of 200 jobs per year over a ten year period.

Construction work on the site’s Peace and Reconciliation Centre will begin before the end of the year, creating 70 new jobs.

Terence Brannigan, Chair of the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation said: “We are committed to maximising the economic development potential of this site for the benefit of all. The Maze Long Kesh site is a historically significant site, used formerly as a World War II airfield, a motor racing circuit, a military camp and a prison. It is a site located in an area now ripe for development, lying in a unique geographic position near ports, airports and a major road network at a prime location on both the North/ South and the East/West transport corridors.”

Mr Brannigan added: “We have already had significant international

maze |23

CBI calls for urban regeneration T

he chair of business organisation CBI Northern Ireland has called for “a resurgence” in regeneration and infrastructure projects led by both the public and private sectors to help transform the economy.

Ian Coulter (pictured) said urban regeneration and economic infrastructure must be key planks in the Executive’s policy going forward.

“We need a resurgence here, after a five year period of market failure following the bursting of the property bubble. Now more than ever we need regeneration initiatives led by both the public and private sector that prepare our cities, particularly Belfast, for the future. Physical transformations are needed to stimulate investments, jobs and growth,” he said.

He highlighted the need to replace and build houses in towns and cities; the need to supply commercial property that is not only energy efficient but also can support new technologies that enable businesses to thrive; and the need to capitalise on key infrastructure projects that help to attract new investment and improve the productivity of our existing businesses “The Titanic Signature Project has been a top drawer example of what can be achieved. I recently attended the Maze Long Kesh Project launch.

Again this promises a great deal,” said Mr Coulter.

“These are two great examples of regeneration initiatives led by government in partnership with the private sector. We just need more of them and we need them more quickly.”

Mr Coulter highlighted a number of other potential projects that could make a huge difference, including the York Street Interchange, the Great Victoria Street Integrated Transport Hub, and the North South Interconnector.

“There are many things the Executive need to consider to make this happen – do we need an Infrastructure Minister? Do we need to adopt a model similar to the Scottish Futures Trust? Could SIB play a wider role here? Should we widen local councils borrowing powers to allow them to invest?” he said.

“Successful regeneration will combine economic, social and physical outcomes for everyone in Northern Ireland. It is a sad fact that in the 1950s Belfast had 400,000 people. It now has 280,000,” he said.

“We must put in place plans to make Belfast a magnet for people, for business and for tourism. This will benefit the country as a whole. Urban regeneration must be front and centre going forward.”

interest shown in developing the site and we anticipate that global investors will be excited about what is an unprecedented development opportunity. For the people of Northern Ireland, in these very difficult times, it is an opportunity we simply cannot afford to ignore.”

The Maze Long Kesh site is the largest development site in public ownership, with 347 acres ready for redevelopment. It is twice as large as the Titanic Quarter and four times the size of Canary Wharf. It is already the region’s largest construction site, with local construction firms and 24 material suppliers working there.

The Regional Development Strategy identifies the opportunity

for a ‘major physical, economic and social development package of regional significance’ at the site and the Corporation said Momentum is already building. It has overseen the completion of demolition and remediation, the securing of funding for a Peace building and Conflict Resolution Centre (PbCRC) which will be complete in 2015 and reached agreement with the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society to hold their annual Balmoral Show on 65 acres of the site last month.

While the Peace building and Conflict Resolution Centre (PbCRC), together with the conserved buildings, equal less than 30 acres of the total landmass, the project inevitably grabbed most of the headlines.

Some Unionists have expressed concern that the centre could become a “shrine to terrorism” while Republicans are equally angry about the potential for a key period in their story being airbrushed out of history.

But Terence Brannigan, who

confirmed work on the new centre would begin before the end of the year, creating 70 jobs, said the organisation’s Development Plan meets an important Programme for Government target.

“Our vision, ‘from Peace to Prosperity’, is intended to demonstrate how economic development can help consolidate and build upon our peace.

We will promote the PbCRC, with its unique Belfast-to-New York design collaboration, as a showcase to attract international developers and investors.

From the interest already shown, I am confident that we will have in place £100m investment by 2016,” he said. “‘From Peace to Prosperity’ is our lodestar – our guide in opening up a range of new possibilities for the Maze Long Kesh site. We will use this as a firm foundation to attract a new range of business interests focused on new technologies and new futures.

Our research clearly indicates that transformational technologies, health & life sciences, agri-foods and renewable

technologies will sit comfortably alongside our centre for peace and conflict resolution, whilst attracting investment and creating high-quality jobs. We will create a ‘peace to prosperity’ continuum, all on a single site.”

He further explained: “I am acutely conscious of the sensitivity of this site, but Maze Long Kesh is already changing. In a couple of weeks we will welcome the Balmoral Show to Maze Long Kesh. The show is a new chapter in the long and varied history of this site and a new phase for the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society.

“I am confident that, out of a troubled past, we can find a way to create a legacy of work, prosperity and peace for generations to come. The Maze Long Kesh site has changed and will continue to change and, in doing so, will create a better future for all of our citizens as an attractive and vibrant place to live, work and learn.”

24|

digest

Green Building Sets New Standards

Belfast Metropolitan College’s e3 building on the Springvale Campus has won a Sustainable Town Planning award for Urban Development and the Built Environment in recognition of its sustainability and green credentials at an awards ceremony organised by RSPB NI and the Royal Town Planning Institute.

Belfast Metropolitan College’s e3 building on the Springvale Campus has been presented with a Sustainable Town Planning award in recognition of its sustainability and green credentials winning the Urban Development and the Built Environment category and reaching the finals of the Sustainable Communities and Regeneration category at an awards ceremony held in the Long Gallery at Stormont.

The awards, which are a joint initiative with RSPB NI and The Royal Town Planning Institute, seek to reward and celebrate the efforts of individuals and organisations to create a better, more sustainable future and recognise the efforts and accomplishments of truly sustainable developments, whether in rural or urban areas, large or small in scale, new developments or regenerations or from the public, private or community sectors.

The e3 building sets new

environmental standards in further education design and is the first College in Ireland to obtain ISO 14001-Environmental Management and ISO 50 0001-Energy Management accreditation with the building achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating in recognition of its high environmental performance.

The build project transformed contaminated waste ground into a rejuvenated, thriving eco-friendly environment by diverting 99% of waste produced from landfill, recycling 100% of the available hard core on site and totally eradicating ground contamination including the complete eradication of Japanese Knotweed.

Greig Twaddle, Head of Estate and Facilities Management at Belfast Met, received the College’s award for achieving the highest environmental standards in the construction and operation of e3: “These awards show our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class education facilities across Belfast. With

sustainability and creativity at the heart of the project design I believe we have created a dynamic building which is core to the College estate and sets new environmental standards for the education sector.

The building’s wind turbine and photovoltaics generate electricity for the building, rainwater harvesting reduces water consumption and the biomass boiler runs at close to zero carbon emissions cumulatively reducing our carbon footprint and halving our energy consumption whilst providing a Grade 1 training facility for students studying Building Services and Renewable Energies.”

Other winners at the Sustainable Planning Awards included The Giant’s Causeway Visitors’ Centre - Rural Areas and the Natural Environment, The Skainos Project - Sustainable Communities and Regeneration with the Judges Choice going to the Peace Bridge and Ebrington Barracks in Derry/ Londonderry.

Finance Minister approves Narrow Water Bridge Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has confirmed that approval has been granted for the £14million Narrow Water Bridge project.

Speaking following his approval he said: “Funding of £14million for the Narrow Water Bridge has now been given approval subject to clarification on technical conditions. As with any project offer, the Letter of Offer for the Narrow Water Bridge Project will include a number of important conditions. One such condition is a commitment by Louth County Council that they will have sole responsibility for any cost overruns associated within the eligible spend

timeframe and in the event that the project would extend outside this period. Louth County Council shall also meet all the maintenance and associated costs related to the upkeep of the bridge and its service area.”

The Minister added: “Under the project theme this project aims to build a bridge that would link the counties of Down and Louth across Carlingford Lough and also the Newry to Warrenpoint Road with the Omeath to Newry Road. The Letter of Offer will also stipulate that Newry and Mourne District Council will meet all operational costs.

Resounding Success for Retrofitting Seminar There was standing room only at the first joint seminar delivered by CITBConstructionSkills NI and the Charted Institute of Housing.

The seminar entitled ‘Retrofitting - Realising the Advantages’ was attended by a wide range of delegates from the public and private sector. Delegates heard from expert speakers and were shown best practice case

studies. Jim Dennison, Head of Operations at CIH said: “We were delighted by the success of our first collaborative training seminar with CITB-ConstructionSkills NI. We look forward to our next event on creating and maintaining healthier homes in June and to planning and delivering more issue-focussed events in the future.”

The seminar was described as ‘very comprehensive’ and ‘informative’

by delegates who also praised the ‘really good speakers & interesting subject’ and the fact that ‘there were plenty of opportunities to ask questions and to meet with the speakers and network with other delegates’.

A second seminar on the subject of ‘Healthy Housing’ was to be delivered on 13th June.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB-ConstructionSkills NI said

“We would encourage housing managers, housing development officers, architects, surveyors, builders, and energy advisers to attend our upcoming event to learn more about the impacts of energy efficiency measures on health, and to hear from a range of experts on how to mitigate these risks.”

For more information visit www. citbcsni.org.uk or www.cih.org/ northernireland.

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

CEF Attends Roads Symposium

At the end of May CEF attended a symposium on roads and sewers organised by the Law Society of Northern Ireland.

Both public and private sector stakeholders were represented at the symposium which was established to respond to the recommendations published by the NI Assembly’s Regional Development Committee following their inquiry into unadopted roads.

One of the Committee’s recommendations was that the level of the bond should be reviewed and that an inflationary adjustment should be introduced. CEF was totally opposed to the suggestion that bonds should be adjusted for inflation and has welcomed the decision of the Regional Development Minister, Danny Kennedy MLA, not to introduce an adjustment on road bonds for inflation. The level of bond required is still subject to discussion and CEF will be meeting Roads Service officials to continue this debate. CEF’s view is that the current level of bond is adequate.

Another recommendation by the Regional Development Committee was to review the private streets legislation. Recent publicity highlighted problems in housing developments that have been abandoned due to insolvency of the builder and where no road bond was in place. CEF is lobbying to ensure that the existing legislation remains unchanged. It is our view that if current legislation is applied properly there is sufficient protection under the current road/sewer bonds requirements.

Delegates from the Symposium including CEF representatives are seeking a meeting with the Regional Development Minister to persuade him that no new legislation is needed provided all stakeholders apply and observe the current legislation correctly.

PLANNING FEES CONSULTATION The Department of the Environment (NI) has published a consultation on its Phase 2 review of planning fees in Northern Ireland. The following summary of the consultation paper has been provided by CEF’s planning partner Turley Associates: In April 2013, Environment Minister Alex Attwood announced proposals to implement Phase 2 of amendments to the fee structure for planning applications in Northern Ireland. The changes aim to reduce the financial burden on applicants who have been affected by the shift in economic climate and positively encourage individuals and developers to undertake development projects, whilst also implementing a more fair and sustainable planning system. This is seen by the Department as a necessary stage of the wider reform of the planning system.

One of the major changes proposed in the consultation paper is one which CEF has campaigned on for some time. The fee for renewing planning permissions already approved is an issue that needs to be addressed particularly as the new build housing market has suffered a significant slowdown and many planning approvals are now approaching the end of their life without construction being commenced.

It is therefore proposed in the consultation paper that the cost for renewing uncommenced applications would be reduced to 25% of the current fee charged for a new application, provided that the application is renewed before the existing permission expires. This can be illustrated in the following example where in the proposed case of renewing an application for a single dwelling, the applicant would currently be required to pay a fee of £840, but under the new proposals the amount would be reduced to £210. However, should the existing permission be allowed to lapse, then the full fee would be charged as if it was a new application.

The consultation paper proposes to increase fees for mixed use applications. Currently, mixed use applications are considered differently depending on the composition of uses. Where there are no residential dwellings in the scheme, the uses are calculated separately to find the largest fee, which is then charged for each scheme in the whole application, regardless of the other fees.

The fees for those applications including residential dwellings are

calculated by adding the highest calculated residential category fee and non-residential category fee together.

Under the new proposals, each individual category will be calculated and added together to give the total application fee, taking all uses within the site into consideration. Each fee category will still be subject to the current fee ceilings.

This consultation on Phase 2 of the fee amendments also seeks to rectify an anomaly implemented in Phase 1 where the fee for a Full or Reserved Matters application for two dwellings is currently lower than the fee for a single dwelling. The new structure would see a single dwelling fee remaining at £840, but for two dwellings the fee will rise from £704 to £1000.

Currently in certain circumstances where applications for Certificates of Lawful Use or Development and Consent to Display Advertisements have been withdrawn before a decision was made, exemptions to these fees would have applied. The consultation paper proposes however that these exemptions are removed and full fees are applied as if based on a new application.

Another proposed amendment to the fee structure is the method of calculation for fee Category 8 (Mineral, Gas and Waste). Changing the unit on which the fee calculation for Category 8 is based from 0.5 hectare to 0.1 hectare would bring Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK and ensure that the charging methodology does not penalise applicants whose applications only just exceed the 0.5 hectare unit area (in such cases they are currently obliged to pay £1,863 even where the additional site area covers significantly less than 0.5 hectare).

The new fee would be £365 per 0.1 hectare (or part thereof) and the fee maximum would remain at its current level of £40,304 (subject to future inflationary increases).

Overall, the Department are of the view that they are putting forward a more fair and realistic model of fees, which creates a more efficient planning system within Northern Ireland. It is evident by the proposals for consultation that there is recognition of the need to make the planning system more pro-active in encouraging development at a time when financial constraints are curtailing activity within the development sector.

The closing date for the consultation is 14 June 2013.

CEF MEETS MINISTER FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

HELP FOR COMPANIES SEEKING CONSTRUCTION WORK IN GREAT BRITAIN CEF has organised an event in partnership with Invest NI on the construction market in Great Britain as part of the Federation’s drive to assist members in seeking work in export markets. The session will focus on guidance for those firms who are considering working in Great Britain for the first time or who wish to expand their operations there. Invest NI will also identify the range of support they can provide.

This information session will be held at CEF Headquarters, 143 Malone Road at 10.30am on Wednesday 12 June 2013. The speakers will be Nick Turberville and Eleanor Butterwick from Invest NI. Nick Turberville is Business Development Director for the Invest NI Trade Team in their London Office. His role is primarily to identify projects that may be of interest to Northern Irish construction firms and support them in their endeavours to secure business in Great Britain. Nick

SPRING local association MEETINGS The spring round of CEF Local Associations concluded at the end of April 2013 with the Down and Armagh meeting which was hosted by Kelly Brothers at their premises in Warrenpoint.

Members discussed how to reduce abnormally low tendering, improvements to payment practices, the proposed use of project bank accounts and how to maximise construction output in both the public and private sectors.

The CEF Spring Local Association meetings provide an opportunity for members to help shape the Federation’s agenda for the months ahead. These issues will then be reported on at the autumn round of Local Association meetings.

CEF would also like to extend its thanks to FP McCann, and QMAC construction who hosted meetings at their offices this spring.

If you would like to host one of the autumn meetings please contact Michelle Rafferty on 028 9087 7143 or micheller@cefni.co.uk

is also involved in running a programme of networking events based on themes that impact the construction sector.

Eleanor Butterwick is also part of Invest NI’s Trade Team and leads on construction sector export support and the Russian market. This role involves delivering events, exhibitions, consultancy support and advice for construction companies to promote growth in export markets. She was actively involved in promoting business opportunities arising from London 2012 and similar sports events. She will provide information on Invest NI’s trade support including trade missions and other non-event related support such as legal advice.

This information session is free of charge. Seating is limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis. The presentation will last approximately 30 minutes followed by a 30 minute Q & A session.

The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) met with Nelson McCausland, Minister for Social Development on two occasions in May 2013 to discuss a wide range of housing issues.

The Federation expressed its serious concern over the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) £15m maintenance underspend last year. CEF highlighted the need for steps to be taken to ensure that the same thing does not happen this year. Subsequently, NIHE has provided details of a range of steps that are being taken to ensure that work is brought to the market throughout this financial year.

CEF discussed the role for private house builders in delivering social housing. In particular, the Federation called for Housing Associations to be allowed by the Department to express an interest in housing of a certain type, in a certain area at a certain price without giving a contractual commitment. The issue of negotiated design and build was also raised. CEF put forward the argument for negotiated design and build to be used in certain situations where the contract value would be below the EU threshold.

The Minister agreed to consider this.

CEF also stressed to the Minister the need for his Department to play a leading role in facilitating an increase in new build private housing. The Minister has agreed to engage further with the Federation on this issue.

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

HOUSING STRATEGY WORKSHOP

CEF recently attended a workshop for all stakeholders who responded to the consultation on the draft Housing Strategy which was published in October 2012. The stakeholder event was organised by the Assembly’s Committee for Social Development.

CEF emphasised to the Committee the vital role that housing plays in stimulating economic growth and prosperity.

CEF made the argument that investing in construction has a proven multiplier effect with every £1 spent on construction generating a further £2.84 in the wider economy. The construction of new homes provides jobs and training opportunities for young people not just in the building industry. It also creates demand for goods and services in the wider economy.

John Armstrong, CEF Managing Director said, “CEF welcomes the proposed introduction of a Housing Strategy for Northern Ireland. However we are concerned that the current draft is lacking in detail on exactly how the supply of houses in both the public and private sectors can be increased. There needs to be a greater emphasis on how the private and public housing sectors can work together to both meet the need for affordable and social housing and to stimulate demand in the private housing market”.

The Assembly’s Social Development Committee will be holding a series of these stakeholder workshops and CEF will continue to lobby for a detailed action plan to increase the supply of new housing in both the private and public sectors.

NAMA INVESTING £9m IN DUNDONALD HOUSING DEVELOPMENT The National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) has announced plans to provide funding of £9 million to build a new housing development in Millmount, Dundonald. NAMA will provide funding to develop the site through an agreement between the court-appointed administrator and Lagan Homes.

An estimated 100 jobs will be generated during the construction phase of the project, which is expected to last approximately 18 months. When completed, the first phase will consist of 95 mainly three-bedroom and four-bedroom houses. The site has outline planning for 510 residential properties, which may be delivered in subsequent phases subject to market conditions and the success of the initial phase.

John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) said, “This is good news for the local construction industry. NAMA has recognised that developing this site will deliver a good return on investment. It is a vote of confidence in the local housing market and we look forward to NAMA providing funding for other projects in Northern Ireland over the next few years. House prices are now affordable, particularly new build houses, and there is clearly demand in the market.

The only remaining sticking point is the availability of mortgages so it is welcome news that NAMA is seeking to bring its 80/20 initiative north of the border.”

Speaking at today’s announcement, NAMA Chairman Frank Daly said, “We are funding this development because it will deliver quality homes for people looking to live and work in Belfast. It will turn an unused site into a development that will benefit the Agency as well as homebuyers, the city of Belfast and the people who work on building it. In deciding how to get the best possible return from this site, we were faced with a choice. That was between selling an undeveloped site to the highest bidder and funding the development to create a more valuable asset.”

“We would welcome proposals from our debtors and receivers/administrators in relation to other viable projects in Northern Ireland and continue to encourage parties interested in availing of vendor financing in Northern Ireland to approach us”.

The NAMA Chairman also announced that the Agency is in discussion with a Northern Ireland mortgage provider and is examining the regulatory feasibility of extending its 80/20 Deferred Payment Initiative to houses controlled by its debtors and receivers/administrators in Northern Ireland.

The 80/20 Initiative was launched on an initial pilot basis in the Republic of Ireland last May and subsequently extended. The initiative aims to provide house buyers with a level of protection against reductions in housing values during the first five years after purchase. Subject to lender agreement and regulatory approval, it is anticipated that Millmount will be suitable for the initiative.

INDUSTRY HOLIDAYS 2014/15 The Joint Council has decided the holidays for the construction industry in 2014/15. The table below shows all industry agreed holidays from summer 2013 through to the end of 2014 HOLIDAY PERIOD NO. OF DAYS

NORMAL STOPPING TIME

NORMAL STARTING TIME

10

Fri. 5 July 2013

Mon. 22 July 2013

Halloween 2013

2

Wed. 30 October 2013

Mon 4 November 2013

Christmas 2013/ New Year 2014

10

Fri 20 December 2013

Mon 6 January 2014

St. Patrick’s Day 2014

1

Fri 14 March 2014

Tues 18 March 2014

Spring 2014

5

Fri 18 April 2014

Mon 28 April 2014

Summer 2013

May Day 2014

1

Fri 2 May 2014

Tues 6 May 2014

Summer 2014

10

Fri 11 July 2014

Mon 28 July 2014

Halloween 2014

2

Wed 29 October 2014

Mon 3 November 2014

Christmas 2014/ New Year 2015

10

Tues 23 December 2014

Wed 7 January 2015

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT FALLS BY 3% IN 2012

INTRODUCTION TO BEHAVIOURAL BASED SAFETY PROGRAMME The Federation has launched a Behavioural Based Safety Programme aimed at companies that want to be at the leading edge of health and safety practice in the construction industry.

Behaviour Based Safety (BBS) is a scientifically based approach to influencing and changing behavioural patterns relating to safety in the workplace. Research shows that the main cause of injury or incident in the workplace starts with behavioural issues. Typically, the figure quoted is of the order of 85%. To address this human and financial loss within the organisation, and to lead to a better working culture overall, it is necessary to understand why behaviours take place, and what to do about them to change them for new behavioural patterns.

Properly applied, BBS will bring about three changes in the workplace: • Bring about a direct reduction in incidents and injury rates • Lead to the development of a safer working culture overall • Lead to an improvement ethos in other areas of business life CEF has developed this programme to give ten organisations an insight into Behavioural Based Safety from one of the leaders in the field, at a fraction of the normal cost.

The programme is structured to impart a shared understanding of the Behavioural Based Safety approach throughout your management structure. The training runs from 24-26th June 2013 and is being delivered off site to ensure that there are no interruptions to the programme.

Companies interested in participating in the programme should contact Kathryn Webb on 028 90 87 7143.

The Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin for the final quarter of 2012 was published today. The total volume of construction output in Q4 2012 increased by 0.5% compared to Q3 2012 but was 5.8% lower compared to the same quarter in 2011.

John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) said, “Very little should be read into the 0.5% increase in output in the final quarter of 2012. However, there has been a marked slowing in the pace of decline in construction output in 2012. In constant prices, output only fell by 3% over the year compared to an average fall of 10% every year since 2008. It is a reflection of the times that we are in that a 3% decline can be considered good news.”

“The collapse in construction activity over the last 5 years has not just been about a correction following a boom. Today’s figures show that in real terms construction output in 2012 was 34% lower than the year 2000.”

“The fall in output has led to the loss of 34,000 construction jobs in Northern Ireland – that is a rate of 566 jobs lost every single month for the last five years. It is the equivalent of a major factory shutting down each month for 60 months in a row.”

“In light of the position the industry is in it is imperative that the Northern Ireland Executive takes action. The slippage in the school building programme must be addressed. Detailed plans for spending the additional £225m of additional capital funding from Treasury need to be made public urgently. The reallocation of the funding for the postponed A5 project must be completed by the end of this month. Mechanisms must be put in place to ensure that the funding allocated to building and maintaining social housing is spent in full.

An increase in new build private housing needs to be facilitated.”

Courses & seminars programme AUGUST 2013 - DECEMBER 2013 Course/Seminar Title

Date(s)

Duration

Essential Health & Safety for Managers

29 Aug & 5 Sept

2 days

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

30 Aug

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers’ Refresher

6 Sept

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

20 Sept

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers’ Refresher

11 Oct

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

18 Oct

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers

7 & 14 Nov

2 days

Essential Health & Safety for Managers’ Refresher

8 Nov

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

15 Nov

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

11 Dec

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers’ Refresher

13 Dec

½ day

Please visit our Events Calendar at www.cefni.co.uk for further information on forthcoming courses/seminars. We would be pleased to discuss any other management or professional training requirements you might have.

For further information phone 028 9087 7141 or e-mail cfts@cefni.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

•

Fax: 028 9087 7155

•

www.cefni.co.uk

Construction

Awards 2013

Let Your Star Shine Brightly The Construction Excellence Awards provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase the best of our local construction industry and to celebrate your achievements.

The aim of the competition is to promote excellence and to give recognition to those companies who are achieving the highest standards of construction. The kudos surrounding the Awards is growing every year.

In August we will host a showcase of the shortlisted finalists. Finally, in front of some of the industry’s leaders and a list of highly distinguished guests, the winners will be unveiled at the Gala Evening on 26 September 2013 at the Culloden Hotel.

Contact Details For further information on the Construction Excellence Awards 2013 contact:-

Joelene Poole on Tel: 028 9087 7143 or jpoole@cefni.co.uk

Principal Sponsor:

Sponsors:

In association with:

Aurora leisure centre |31

Farrans makes a big splash with Bangor’s Aurora

T

housands of competitors, from an estimated 70 countries, are coming to Northern Ireland this August to participate in one of the biggest multi-sport events globally, the World Police and Fire Games.

Bangor’s new Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex, which was developed as part of the wider legacy of the London 2012 Olympic games, has been selected as an official venue but, as the athletes throng to the North Down seaside town for this important biennial event, the third largest international multi-sport event

in the world, few will know of the efforts undertaken to build the new high-tech facility.

The multi-functional facilities include an Aquatics centre, a health and fitness centre, a Performance Development Centre for elite athletes, a management suite including function rooms, office and stakeholder offices for organisations such as Swim Ulster. There is also an external sports village, retail facilities, café and a children’s nursery and children’s soft adventure play areas, suitable for parties.

Through direct engagement with the Client’s Project Manager, David Warden, we gained a first-hand understanding of the operational challenges involved in managing a complex commercial, multifaceted leisure facility. This influenced early design decisions and created a facility that was customised to the client’s specific needs. Consideration was given to all levels of swimmers,

for example, it is the only 50m Olympic sized pool in Northern Ireland, but it can be split into three pools, an exact 25 metre pool and two 12 metre pools. This has been achieved by developing the pool and elite diving facility with moveable floors and booms.

The scheme also includes 3g pitches, wet leisure facilities, spa facilities, gym and multi-use halls to maximise it’s attraction to a broad range of end users.

Paul McClements, who led the £38 million project for Farrans Construction, explained that work first began on Valentine’s Road, Bangor in September 2010 with preliminary excavations on what was a ‘brown field’ site, underpinned by solid rock.

“Our project management skills were tested in full when over 19,500m3 of contaminated ground was discovered and a “bottomless” ravine was discovered con’t page 34>>

We are pleased to have worked on and been associated with the Bangor Aurora Aquatics and Leisure Complex. Wishing Farrans Construction all the very best for the future!

John & Gregory McCartan Joinery

43 Leestone Road Kilkeel Co. Down BT34 4NW TEL: John 07802522339, Gregory 07801017038

Plastering & Flooring Specialists Clarke Contracts have recently completed the new Olympic size swimming pool for Farrans Construction. This prestige contract consisted of a wide range of specialised systems that Clarke Contracts were able to carry out.

The main plastering package consisted of two coat work which was painted and tiled throughout the complete building. Isocrete K-Screed was used in the two main pool areas to assist with drying times that was essential to the site program.

The leisure pool also had Flowcrete epoxy L.X.P. with a non-slip finish to the stair treads and landing areas. Clarke Contracts have recently opened a new Glasgow office and are currently involved in the new Aquatic Centre Olympic sized pool and leisure complex in Aberdeen. Clarke Contracts have been associated with Farrans Construction over many years and will continue to support Farrans in the future all over the U.K.

T: 028 2954 0191 F: 028 2954 0401 info@clarkecontracts.com www.clarkecontracts.com 89 Bann Road, Rasharkin, Ballymena, Co. Antrim BT44 8SZ

• • •

Contact: at@rwp-irl.com Website: www.rwp-irl.com Telephone: 02897 511 105 / 07836 339 726

• • •

RWP IRL LTD Irelands leading siphonic drainage company

Design Fabrication / Installation Warranties

Bangor Aurora & Aquatic Leisure Complex

Tile experts deliver exceptional performance at new bangor aurora complex…

J

&G Agencies Ltd has successfully completed the full tiling sub-contract package for Farrans Construction for Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex which includes the province’s first Olympic-sized 50-metre swimming pool to meet international standards.

This package included the full supply and installation of all tiles, adhesives, and epoxy grouts throughout the complete project.

It also included all screeds, renders and expansion joints inside the main, diving and leisure pool tanks, including all associated preparations.

In many areas, J&G was also instructed to apply a waterproof tanking kit in what is one of the most prestigious and technically challenging projects ever undertaken in the company’s history.

Now 10 years old, J&G Agencies Ltd was formed by Giuseppe Gaudiano who still remains the company’s Managing Director and driving force.

Giuseppe, who many would

recognise as the former Contracts Sales Manager of Lomac Tiles and former Sales Director of Regan Tiles before creating J&G, has been involved in many of Northern Ireland and Belfast’s main developments in the past 23 years.

These developments include the Waterfront Hall, Odyssey Arena, Victoria Square, the Fitzwilliam Hotel, the Merchant Hotel, the Radisson Hotel – Gasworks, as well as the Galgorm Spa Retreat in Ballymena.

He has also been involved in the

refurbishment of many of Northern Ireland’s shopping centres. These include Connswater Shopping Centre, the Tower Shopping Centre, and the Abbey Centre in Newtownabbey.

Their portfolio of schools included the new Girls and Boys Model Schools, St Dominic’s Grammar on the Falls Road, Ashfield Girls as well as Our Ladies and St Patrick’s.

Whilst the majority of these projects are commercial, 2012 offered an opportunity to move the business into both retail and contracts through

the acquisition of Lomac Tiles and Tilemarket. This acquisition has given J&G the opportunity to strengthen its core supply base, which has led to supply chain relationships with some of the very best suppliers in the world, whether Chinese, Spanish, Turkish and, of course, Italian.

Giuseppe’s experience and success has also allowed him to build a fantastic team of people who assist architects and interior designers in selecting the appropriate products that are fit for purpose. None of this would have been possible without the assistance and support of his wife Joanne, hence the name J&G.

J&G Agencies Ltd, T/A JG TileMarket & Bathrooms, 5-7 Glenmachan Place, Boucher Road, Belfast T: 028 90230433 E: giuseppe@jgagencies.com www.tilemarket.co.uk www.jgagencies.com

34| Aurora leisure centre <<con’t from page 31

under the 50m pool that had not been identified in the ground investigation reports. Through “brain storming” with the engineers and our supply chain we were able to deliver solutions which maintained programme, mitigated costs and ultimately delivered a scheme to the highest finishing standard.”

Paul confirmed that the “This all had to be excavated, moved away to a remote part of the site, sorted into respective waste streams and trucked out and dealt with by specialists P T McWilliams. This caused only a minimal delay of just a few weeks, with the main contract work getting underway almost on schedule” said the project manager.

“Waste, therefore, was a key factor for this project and we had to ensure we minimised spoil and, at the same time, reduced our carbon footprint: Some 20,000 tonnes of quarried rock was processed on site, saving many hundreds of lorry journeys to haul it away, and was then used to fill the 700-space car parking area.” he added.

Through detailed contractor design and building processes we installed the largest glulam roof structure ever built in the UK. This included connection details that accommodated deflection; improved installation buildability and provided a striking curved engineered solution with the highest standard of finish.

Aside from the 50m pool by far the biggest design feature is the roof, which is a huge panorama constructed by two curving sections, composed of a jigsaw of specially commissioned, glue-laminated timber beams, each 70 metres in length and sitting on three supports, sweeping right across the multi-million pound facility.

These came from a specialist in Austria, Wiehag, one of Europe’s leading providers for wide-span bearing systems and roof systems, producing glulam for factoryassembled bearing system solutions and individual components. The first batch was to arrive by sea, initially being shipped down the Danube on barges, into the Rhine, onward to Rotterdam in November 2011 and eventually up the Irish Sea. The second delivery of beams, however, was transported by road.

Paul commented that “This means of transportation meant fewer logistic problems than the sea journey, with just a few junctions in the final part of the route into Bangor being difficult, but a ‘dry run’ beforehand helped to smooth the path.

The iconic roof element was put together like a virtual jigsaw puzzle of

Key Facts

Client - NDBC PM & Lead Architect - Mc Adam Design Specialist Pool Architect - S & P Mech & Elect Consultants - JCP Specialist Pool Filtration Consultant - Hoare Lea Structural & Civil - WYG Landscaping - RPS

“Some 20,000 tonnes of quarried rock was processed on site – saving many hundreds of lorry journeys to haul it away – and was then used to fill the 700car space parking area” PauL Mcclements, Farrans project Manager

Aurora leisure centre |35 interlocking elements, all specially commissioned by us.”

Part of the reason for choosing these glue-laminated elements was their positioning within the pool, where humidity is always going to be a factor to be considered: “Air temperature is strictly controlled in the Aurora where it is maintained at two degrees above the pool temperature (28oc) which is a critical margin in preventing condensation” said Paul, explaining how McAdam Design’s work as the main architect, alongside the company responsible for the Olympics Pool in London, S&P, was vital in the overall success.

“Aside from keeping humidity controlled, the pool structure itself was also a real innovation,” he said.

The whole structure has an airy feel to it, of being one huge area under one iconic roof structure: “There’s a very large foyer and reception area, which is also very open and airy, through the use of large volumes of glass further emphasising the open feeling,” added Paul.

When the Aurora opened at Easter 2013 the building was widely viewed as an architectural success.

Around 200 construction jobs were created in the completion of the innovatively designed project which even achieved a BREEAM Accreditation of Excellent, which is unusual for a wet leisure facility.

“Through dedicated implementation of our Farrans CARES safety system, we successfully delivered the project with no RIDDOR incidents, whilst also providing over 5,000 hours of training.

The project was also used a demonstration project by Construction Excellence for sustainability and for our selection as the first construction company in the UK to achieve BS 8900 registration. Awards also included the CCS Silver Award and the Green Apple Award.”

“We are delighted to have been involved in such an exciting landmark project for Northern Ireland providing facilities that can be enjoyed by both families and athletes alike,” concluded the obviously proud project manager.

“Air temperature is strictly controlled in the Aurora with the air temperature maintained at two degrees above the pool temperature, a margin critical in preventing condensation” PauL Mcclements, Farrans project Manager

40| Aurora leisure centre

Petal perform at Bangor T

he Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex is a multi-sports centre designed to accommodate many different groups of users simultaneously. In such a busy centre equipped to handle thousands of visitors each day the washroom and changing facilities provide an essential base to the successful operation of the building.

Petal were appointed to this important task having an already impressive track record of delivering supply and fit on similar leisure projects.

Bangor is one of the largest projects of its type ever built in the UK , the numbers tell the story with more than 200 cubicles , 500 lockers and hundreds of linear metres of bench changing.

Petal’s Barry Boylan explains how they dealt with the challenge.

“The scale and variety of the different dry and wet changing and washroom facilities required a range of products and the ability to offer bespoke options to meet the exacting specification on this build.

Only the best designed and proven

maximum privacy in the pool changing facilities provided by the 25mm floor clearance in the cubicle divisions. This type of project draws on all our experience but then we have been in the business for 30 years” Each area of the complex contains changing facilities for different user types , in the Pool Village Petal provided individual cubicles, family cubicles and the fit out of changing rooms for school groups. In addition Petals’ Action range was specified for individual Shower and WC cubicles. The scheme was carried through into Lockers, vanity units and duct and access wall panelling all supplied and installed by Petal to perform in a wet room environment.

Multiple dry changing areas service the fitness suite, gym and outdoor pitches with additional changing for staff and sports officials.

Architects S & P chose to style these areas with high specification systems which would give users an experience beyond that gained in just a functional changing area.

Petal installed the stylish Elan inline glass system for the changing and individual shower cubicles in

“The quality of the Installation is a critical factor in the long term performance in sports changing facilities.”

Petal’s barry boylan systems are capable of providing long term low maintenance performance in high traffic areas in such a busy complex.

The heat and humidity in pool areas place huge demands on cubicles and lockers but at Petal we have developed our “Action” range of systems that are specifically designed to operate efficiently in these wet room conditions. We are so confident of their performance that we offer a 10 year warranty” The contract at Bangor was for supply and fit of the changing facilities and washrooms in all areas and again Barry pointed out the special challenges of working in the pool environment..

“The quality of the Installation is a critical factor in the long term performance in sports changing facilities. Bangor required careful planning by our design team to account for the drainage falls in the floor and yet still provide the

the Fitness Suites creating a strong architectural quality to these areas which is further enhanced with timber compact grade laminate locker doors and comfortable soft finish bench seating units.

In addition to the changing rooms Petal installed the public washrooms to service the complex which includes the 1000 seat viewing area in the pool. Again the Action WC cubicles, Duct and access Panelling and vanities were designed to cope with the high traffic experienced 7 days a week.

Commenting on the total scheme Barry said “ This project was the perfect showcase for Petal and it demonstrates our full supply and fit capabilities across every aspect of modern washrooms and high performance sports changing facilities . It was a pleasure working with the client to meet and exceed their expectations through the delivery of this project. “

42| Off-Shore Wind Terminal

The quay wall was constructed over both land and water utilising 32m long 1.6m tubular piles in combination with 22m long sheet piles. The combiwall was tied back to a reinforced concrete anchor beam supported on 367 30m long 760mm raking tubes which were anchored to the rock. A total of 30,000m³ of concrete was used during the construction of the crane beam which is supported on 780 750mm piles.

Works also included the dredging of the new berth and approaches that involved the disposal of 600,000m3 of material to sea, with the treatment and disposal of 20,000m³ of contaminated material to land.

Approximately 150,000T of rock armour was placed beside the quay wall as protection for the seabed from the jack up barges that use the new quay facility.

The contract also required the development of 50 acres of hinterland. This involved the placement of 900,000m2 of geotextile and 1,000,000T of aggregate to construct a 200,000m² of heavy duty unbound pavement. General services were also installed to supply the future renewables hub. The project was completed in 59 weeks.

Key Facts Client – Belfast Harbour Commissioners Value - £51.5million Form of Contract – FIDIC Programme – 64 weeks

£50m Offshore Wind Terminal

Farrans Construction delivers the first purposebuilt off-shore wind installation and pre-assembly harbour in the UK and Ireland

T

he 50-acre terminal, located on the County Down side of the Port, is the largest single investment in Belfast Harbour’s history. Built by local construction company Farrans, the project took 15-months, 750,000 man hours, one million tonnes of stones and 30,000 tonnes of concrete to complete.

The 200,000 m2 facility, large enough to accommodate 30 football pitches, includes a 480m deep-water quayside. Up to three vessels will be able to berth simultaneously with access available around the clock.

DONG Energy has signed a lease for the terminal which will be used initially to support the development of the West of Duddon Sands Wind farm in the Irish Sea , a joint venture between ScottishPower Renewables and DONG Energy.

Over 100 turbines, each with a rotor diameter of 120m, will be shipped from the new terminal to the West of Duddon Sands project.

It will be one of the world’s largest offshore wind farms when it is commissioned in 2014.

Off-Shore Wind Terminal |43

44| Yeoman Shields

Flaming good ideas from Yeoman Shield

D

oors in bustling environments such as the interiors of public buildings can easily suffer from damage which, as well as being unsightly, can seriously compromise the integrity of fire doors.

With over 45 years experience in the field of wall and door protection, Yeoman Shield has now launched an innovative new product, following extensive R&D, to add to its already expansive range of door protection products.

In addition to Yeoman Shield’s successful door panel, door edge and door frame protectors, which prevent expensive damage and maintenance costs, the company has now developed the Yeoman Shield PVCu Clad Door Glazing Bead. Fire tested to BS and EN standards, it is one of the few products on the market to not only protect timber beads from damage but to also meet fire regulations for ½ hour and 1 hour fire doors.

Yeoman Shield’s PVCu Clad Door Glazing Bead is recommended for new doors to prevent future costly damage but it is proving to be a winning formula for fire doors which are in need of refurb, repair or overhaul as the installation does not affect the doors fire integrity and is, therefore, an affordable alternative to a brand new door set.

The hardwood PVCu clad bead has been designed to protect exposed timber glazing beads which often split following inevitable contact from everyday traffic, such as trolleys, pedestrians and bags, in public buildings. This results in sharp, dangerous edges or vision panel apertures with completely missing beads.

Fire doors form an essential part of fire safety in schools and the highest priority should be given to maintaining them to their correct and original performance. Damaged fire doors, particularly those which no longer meet in the middle to form an effective fire seal, can compromise fire

resistance and could be condemned by fire safety officers for not meeting RRO - Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) regulations.

Yeoman Shield has a range of fully fire tested door protection products specifically designed to improve damaged doors.

The installation of Yeoman Shield door protection products is an affordable alternative to fitting new door sets and will prevent further expense by protecting vulnerable surfaces from ongoing and everyday damage.

Yeoman Shield manufactured materials are readily available, have been fully fire tested and also undergo a further testing in the application in which they will be used i.e. Door Edge Protector.

All of Yeoman Shield’s products are designed to be easily retrofitted for refurbishment projects resulting in precious savings in these times of tight budgets.

A team of experts in the sales office at the Head office in Leeds

can offer advice on the wide range of Yeoman Shield product available.

Alternatively you can request a visit from your Area Sales Manager to discuss solutions to improve the longevity of existing doors. They can advise on appropriate products which will protect the fabric of your building, supply samples and carry out a site survey if required.

Yeoman Shield can provide a CHAS accredited installation service if required, by directly employed CSCS Platinum Standard fixing operatives.

Fire documentation and technical details can be obtained upon request along with professional and friendly product advice.

In short, investing in Yeoman Shield can save both the fabric of your building and your maintenance and repair budgets.

For further details on Yeoman Shield products visit www. yeomanshield.com, email sallyann@ yeomanshield.com or telephone 0113 2795854.

46| flooding

Flash Floods?.. Angel to the rescue!

S

ince 2007 there has only been one year when Northern Ireland has not suffered a significant flooding event, most recently in June last year when an unprecedented volume of rain fell overnight causing flash flooding which damaged numerous properties and led to Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service receiving 700 flood- related calls from residents in the greater Belfast area.

Over the last few years we have seen flooding dominate the headlines and predictions suggest it is only going to get worse due to the effects of climate change. Following the driest March for 59 years, we then experienced the wettest April since records began and heavy rain across the UK resulted in extreme flooding scenarios due to the already dry ground. Many of those that

As a result of our changing weather conditions, many householders, businesses and councils are now exploring new, innovative solutions and one company’s comprehensive range of specialist products can meet this need.

UK Flood Barriers design, manufacture and supply a number of Flood Angel® products that can be installed at the build-stage to provide protection from water flowing into an infrastructure through entrance points around doors, airbricks and sewage systems.

Specialists in passive flood mitigation solutions, whereby products are self-activating, they aim to provide the largest range of long-term sustainable and cost effective solutions for the built environment.

Their goal is to ensure that at-risk communities and properties are safe from the social and financial effects of flooding.

Although you may feel your

perhaps thought they were immune to flooding due to their distance from coastal or river areas had their homes and lives devastated by flash flooding in 2012.

Currently around 50,000 properties in Northern Ireland are estimated to lie within a flood risk area, however surface water flooding can potentially affect any building in any location or elevation. This type of flooding occurs when heavy rainfall saturates the drainage systems and excess water cannot be absorbed.

project is not at risk as it is not based near rivers or the coast, this is irrelevant; flash floods are far more likely to cause devastation, are highly unpredictable, and can affect anywhere as Frank Kelly, CEO of UK Flood Barriers comments, “Whilst new homes being built is great news for the economy, there is a danger that many of these houses will be built in flood risk areas. Fortunately, we are seeing an increased commitment from the industry to recommend the best

flood defence products available for installation in new properties, such as the Flood Angel® Anti-Flood Airbrick.

We have seen a rise in demand for this product as specifiers are choosing to opt for passive flood defence as a solution.”

Airbricks are often one of the first points of water ingress during flooding and can allow up to 5,000 litres of water to enter a building every hour. The Flood Angel® AntiFlood Airbrick is passive and the only BSI Kitemark accredited airbrick in the world. It requires no human intervention and is self-activated by just one moving part. Designed to replace a standard airbrick it allows air to freely pass through complying with BS493:1995, yet under flood conditions the self activating gate will automatically shut off. This unique product can be retro-fitted or used in new build construction and is available in a number of colours to match exterior brickwork.

Rising sewer levels caused by flooding must also be considered at the initial design stage. This type of flooding is one of the most unpleasant, resulting in untold damage with long term consequences and high clean up expenses, but this can be easily remedied with the new Flood Angel® 160mm/110mm nonreturn valve. This recently launched product is the UK’s only adaptable Non-Return Valve that also gives the benefit of passive flood protection due to its integral self-activating flap powered by flood water. Under normal operating conditions the Non-Return Valve remains fully open allowing solids to flow freely with the added benefit that inspection and maintenance are kept simple due to the fully rod-able system and clear inspection lid.

In addition, to protect flood water from entering through low windows and doors, the bespoke Flood Angel® Flood Defender™ Door Barriers and the Flood Angel® Flood Defender™ Door can be installed – providing maximum strength and durability, with all of these products carrying the BSI Kitemark standard.

The Planning Policy Statement 25 (PPS25) sets out the Government’s

policy on development and flood risk, aiming to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all planning stages to avoid inappropriate development. As a result, planners are looking for innovative, reliable solutions that can combat floods with 100% effectiveness and minimum intervention, the answer to this is passive flood defence.

Today, ensuring all new-build developments comply with current planning legislation and also the Code for Sustainable Homes, in terms of flooding and flood prevention, does not need to be complicated or expensive.

The housing industry can now prioritise flood protection by taking a number of small steps to guarantee all new developments are safe for the future. A 2012 report from DEFRA singled out flooding as the worst threat resulting from climate change to hit the UK. Coupled with this, the insurance industry’s voluntary flood agreement with the government comes to an end in July and with no current alternative settled upon it is estimated by the Association of British Insurers that around 200,000 homes could struggle to obtain adequate flood insurance after this date.

We all now need to understand that flooding can strike anywhere and at any time. It is imperative that new buildings are sustainable and flood-proof and that this is factored into the initial planning stage. Passive flood defence offers the ideal solution, providing the least intrusive and most costeffective answer to the problem of preventing future economic and personal damage from flooding.

To find out more about the innovative range of solutions from UK Flood Barriers visit www. ukfloodbarriers.co.uk

flooding |47

Identifying Flood Risk

C

ampbell Utilities is a Northern Ireland based company specialising in flood defence, civil engineering and groundworks.The company is also an approved survey and installation company working on behalf of UK Flood Barriers Ltd, the exclusive manufacturer and provider of the Flood Angel® and self-closing flood barrier flood defence product range.

The Flood Angel® range has been developed to the highest standards with the products working together to protect properties against flooding.

Suitable for retro-fit or new build, the range is compliant with the Code for Sustainable Homes. Many products carry the Kite marked standard PAS1188-1:2009. Once installed Flood Angel® products function effectively for many years and provide long term cost effective flood protection.

Flood Risk Assessment Service Campbell Utilities are installation specialists who understand how flooding works and what can be done to mitigate against it. The company offers a comprehensive Flood Risk Assessment Service to ensure that all points of water ingress to a property are identified and a complete range of flood protection measures recommended.

Post assessment, a detailed survey report makes recommendations about suitable flood resistance measures and highlights areas where remedial work might be carried out to assist the effective implementation of flood resistance measures.

For more information or to book a Flood Risk Assessment of your property.

T: 028 8774 9061 E: enquiries@campbellutilities.com W: www.campbellutilities.com

Flood Risk Assessment & Flood Defence Installation Service

Campbell Utilities

can help protect your property by supplying & installing a range of innovative flood defence solutions from the Flood Angel® range including; • • • •

Flood Defender Barrier Doors Anti-Flood Airbricks Sewage Defence Valves Floodproof Sealants

Flood Defence Products Kite marked | Quality Workmanship | Products & Installation Service Guaranteed Contact us now to book a Flood Risk Assessment of your property T: 028 8774 9061 E: enquiries@campbellutilities.com W: www.campbellutilities.com

48| flooding

DuoGuard against floods, from Bowater Doors

A

s the threat of flooding in the UK increases, industryleading Bowater Doors has unveiled an improved design for its flood defence door. The DuoGuard range is being relaunched following enhancements to its design. Bowater Doors, a company of The VEKA UK Group, is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of energy-efficient composite doors.

As National Sales Manager John Park-Davies explains: “the DuoGuard extends all the energy efficiency, security and durability benefits of the Duo range to create a genuine double rebate flood defence door. Twin compression seals and a 12-point multi-locking system combine to provide unrivalled protection against flooding, in fact, up to 200 times more flood protection when compared to a standard single rebate composite door.”

Since The VEKA UK Group acquired Bowater Doors in 2011, the Group has invested heavily in both marketing and product development to support the merger of the VEKA and Bowater Door brands, and the DuoGuard - the latest in a long line of pioneering door innovations – is a specialist flood defence door, which has been improved with steel reinforced corners to provide even greater flood resistance.

John Park-Davies continues: “the DuoGuard is manufactured using CFC-free polyurethane foam for the inner core and the door’s construction is timber-free throughout; meaning it won’t bow, warp or rot and, thanks to its double rebate and 68mm thickness, it improves both heat and sound insulation. The entire DuoGuard

range can achieve extremely low U values – far below the industry standard – and depending on the choice of glazing, they can even be as low as 0.8.

“With a comprehensive range of styles, high quality hardware and glazing options, the DuoGuard flood defence door can be as unique as your customers, and is available in a choice of five colours and two woodgrains so that each door can be unique.”

The superior appearance of the DuoGuard range is matched by the security it provides, as it meets or exceeds all current British standards, including PAS23, PAS24 and Secured by Design - the official police security accreditation that is only awarded to products offering exceptional security features.

As well as the 12 locking points securing it to the frame, it also has high security hinges and a six pin anti-drill/ anti-bump euro cylinder, and its steel reinforced PVC-U subframe is braced with steel corner supports.

Homeowners can design their own door to reflect the style of their home by using the Bowater Doors online tool at www. frontdoors.uk.com. Visitors simply follow the easy step-by-step instructions to create their own door and can also upload a picture of their home to see what it will look like once fitted.

Connswater Greenway underway with awarding of initial £4 million contract

Pictured with the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman Gavin Robinson, at the announcement that the first £4 million contract for the Connswater Community Greenway Project has been awarded are, from left, Councillor Deirdre Hargey, Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resource Committee, Catherine McCallum, Chief Executive of Rivers Agency, Wendy Langham, Programme Manager with East Belfast Partnership and Joanne McDowell, Big Lottery Fund Director Northern Ireland.

T

he £4 million contract to deliver the first phase of the Connswater Community Greenway project has been awarded to Maghera-based BSG Civil Engineering Ltd. The total project is worth £35 million, with the second £23 million phase due to begin next Spring, and the rest of the funding to cover public art, land purchase, employment and future management and maintenance of the Greenway.

Belfast City Council, which is leading the delivery of the scheme in conjunction with the East Belfast Partnership, Department for Agriculture and Rural Development’s Rivers Agency, Department for Social Development and the Big Lottery Fund, said that the contractor will be on site conducting preparation work before the end of June and the construction work will be completed

by Spring 2014.

In addition, three km of new paths, including two new bridges, for pedestrians and cyclists and a third bridge for vehicles, will be constructed, along with landscaping, miscellaneous public realm work and

associated lighting and CCTV. The contract awarded today will also deliver a significant part of the £11 million East Belfast Flood Alleviation Scheme aimed at providing increased protection properties currently at risk from river and tidal flooding. Specific focus is on Orangefield and Victoria Parks, including the construction of flood walls, earthen flood embankments and river realignment works which will enhance protection to homes in the areas under threat of flooding.

The Lord Mayor, Alderman Gavin Robinson, said: “The Connswater Community Greenway is an integral part of Belfast City Council’s £150 million investment programme and is going to transform the east of the city – and I am thrilled to make this announcement as one of the last major engagements in my year of office.

“This project is a key example of how major projects can be taken forward in partnership between local and central government and between the private and public sectors, but with the local communities in the driving seat.”

directory |49

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

directory ABORICULTURAL CONSULTANCY

AIR, WIND TIGHTNESS & VENTILATION

Automatic doors

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.

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

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Construct with Confidence We combine our extensive technical knowledge with a wide range of the finest brands in air & wind tightness, ventilation, drainage, fixings, roofing and other construction products.

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Frederick Jones (Belfast) Ltd Tel: 028 9032 4467 Web: www.fjones.com/construction

Swing Door Operators Sliding Door Operators Curved Sliding Bi-Folding Sliding Revolving Doors Under floor Swing Drive Operators Electronic Locking Systems Intercoms CCTV Access Control

Door Hardware Door furniture Locks & Cylinders Door Closing Devices Hinges & Pivots Panic Exit Hardware Anti-Ligature Range Anti-Bacterial

Automatic doors DORMA offers a total package of solutions for around the door and beyond. This includes door hardware to glass fittings, automatic doors and movable walls, all backed up by a nationwide team of service and maintenance engineers.

Suitable for a wide range of projects including retail, workplace, health, commercial, residential and leisure, DORMA products offer performance, reliability and innovation.

DORMA UK Limited Wilbury Way Hitchin Hertfordshire SG4 0AB Tel: 01462 477600 Fax: 01462 477601 Email: info@dorma-uk.co.uk Web: www.dorma-uk.co.uk

Facades, Partitions & Doors

ARCHITECTURAL IRONMONGERS

Schuco Jansen Glazing Systems Fire & Smoke Curtains Steel Doors & Frames Timber Doors & Frames Door Sets Movable Walls

Stainless Steel Fabrications

Bollard automation

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Service & Maintenance

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

Maintenance agreements Emergency callouts Repairing parts Replacing parts bELFAST Unit 20-21a, Harbour Court, Heron Road, Sydenham, Business Park, Belfast, BT3 9LE. Tel: 028 904 69914 Fax: 028 904 69915 www.kccarchitectural.com salesbelfast@ kccarchitectural.com dublin cork London SCOTLAND QATAR

Tel: 01 456 7421 Tel: 021 435 1200 Tel: +44 (0) 1322 616 416 Tel: +44 (0) 7730 764 730 Tel: +97444533165

• Manual, Automatic & Gas Bollards • Building Protection Systems • Vehicle Access Control • Bus Link Systems • Anti-terrorist/Suicide Bomber Protection • Security Gates • Perimeter Security Consultants Sentry Posts Ltd 27 Upper Quilly Road, Dromore, Co. Down BT25 1NP Tel: (028) 9269 2113 Fax: (028) 9269 2117 Email: sentryposts@btconnect.com Web: www.sentryposts.co.uk

50| directory Builders

BuSINESS information

Cavity trays

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

•

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.

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

Building information

Products • Planning Applications • Public Sector Tenders • Contracts awarded

Carpenters & joiners

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

ORE® is an all Ireland construction information service. We deliver invaluable, up to date information on construction projects at every stage.

Opportunities are tailored to the exact requirements of your business, you decide what information you need and how you want to receive it.

Cavity Trays Ltd New Administration Centre, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8Hu Tel: 01935 474769 Fax: 01935 428223 E-mail: enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk

Contact us for further information or visit www.unearthore.com where you can gain immediate access to all projects by taking our 10 day free trial.

See what your business can unearth, given Ore.

Telephone: Belfast: 02890 755100 Dublin: 01 496 4999 Email: info@unearthore.com Web: www.unearthore.com

• • • • • • •

Reduced CO² footprint Faster application Less Labour intensive Superior surface finish Reduction in curing time Reduced thickness and weight Elimination/reduction of joints

Call 01 865 8700 (ROI) 02890 616611 (NI) e: ireland.info@cemex.com w: www.cemex.ie

Acoustic and fire barriers /stops for cavity wall specifications.

New range to suppress sound transmission with up to fours hours fire integrity rating

Services • www.unearthore.com • Reports tailored to your exact requirements

Ore Unit 8 North City Business Centre 2 Duncairn Gardens Belfast BT15 2GG Northern Ireland

CONCRETE

CIVIL ENGINEERS

Nicholas O'Dwyer Consulting Civil & Structural Engineers Project Managers, CDM Co-ordinators

DIFFERENT BY DESIGN 15 Downshire Road, Newry, Co. Down, N. Ireland, BT34 1EE Tel: 004428 3026 6915 • Fax: 004428 3026 4810 Email: newry@nodwyer.com • Web: www.nodwyer.com

• Above ground Slurrey Stores • Below ground Slurrey Tanks • Cattle Slatt • Cattle Cubicles • Retaining wall systems • Rocket walls, Drinkers • SB jack • Pipes and super H pipes • Bridge beams • Tunnel segments • Box culverts.

Macrete Ireland Ltd. 50 Creagh Road, Toomebridge Co. Antrim BT41 3SE Tel: 028 796 504 71 Fax: 028 796 500 84 Email: info@macrete.com Web: www.macrete.com

Supplying Northern Ireland’s leading architects and builders

...a new generation of liquid screed!

Major benefits over traditional sand: cement screed. Visit our website for more information.

www.rtu.co.uk RTU LTD Cloughfern Avenue, Newtownabbey Co. Antrim BT37 0UZ Tel: 028 9085 1441 Fax: 028 9085 1226 Email: sales@rtu.co.uk

directory |51

If you wish to advertise contact: Quality Precast Solutions for Building and Civil Construction • 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 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

Construction

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218 carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

FABRICATED METALS

Ireland’s largest Fixings and Power Tool distributors including:

Our product range includes: Trespa Meteon Trespa Virtuon Trespa TopLabplus eco-fibre Trespa TopLab Trespa Athlon

Fixings and fastenings

• Bosch • Panasonic • Milwaukee • Bridges BRIDGES • BALUSTRADES • PLATFORMS • STAIRS • Stanley Balustrades • •ARCHITECTURAL METALWORK FA B R I C AT E D M E TA L S

• • • •

Henkel Elch Rawlplug Heller

• Platforms • Stairs Distributors of GRP composite P.F COPELAND LTD • Architectural Metalwork George House, 9 Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, Co.Antrim, doorsets, glass products, fire doors &

Finish Specialist Construction Products 73 Liminary Road, Ballymena, Co. Antrim, N. Ireland BT42 3HN Tel: 0800 232 1706 Fax: 028 2564 7499

Demolition

Northern Ireland BT36 4GX Telephone: 028 9083 7211 • Fax: 028 9034 2307 P.F Copeland LTD Web Site: www.pfcopeland.com

George House, 9 Mallusk Drive, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim, NI, BT36 4GX Tel: 028 9083 7211 Fax: 028 9034 2307 Web: www.pfcopeland.com

FACADES

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

uPVC panels.

Visit our website www.acefixings.com

Ace Fixings Woodside Industrial Estate, Woodside Road, Ballymena, BT42 4HX Tel: 028 2564 9323 Fax: 028 2565 9334

GAS

FORKLIFT TRUCKS Calor Gas Northern Ireland Limited

We have a wealth of experience within the demolition industry, covering all areas of Northern Ireland. We have built up a proven track record and reputation for being highly competitive, efficient and for completing all works to the highest possible standards. All our employees are fully trained in line with current legislation and are continually assessed and certified in all aspects of their work.

McCusker Demolition 85 Iris Drive Belfast BT12 7BL Tel: 02890 233301 Mob: 07801544496 - 07935987675 Fax: 02890 201427 Email: info@mccuskerdemolition.com Web: www.mccuskerdemolition.com

Award Winning Facade Specialists:

• EWI - External Wall Insulation Systems from renowned manufacturers STO & Weber.

• External Rainscreen Claddings • External SFS Metal Framing • Traditional Plastering & Screeding • Established 30 Years M Clarke & Sons Contracts Ltd 9 Main St Portglenone, Co. Antrim BT44 8LA E-mail: mclarke001@aol.com Web: www.mclarke.co.uk

Combilift Ltd manufactures a range of 4-way all-wheel drive forklifts for the safe, space-saving handling of long and awkward loads. Combilifts work as a 3 trucks in 1 - counterbalance truck, sideloader and narrow aisle forklift, inside and out, on semi-rough terrain, in aisles widths of 2m. Capacities from 2.5 – 14 tonnes are available, with various power options.

Combilift Ltd Gallinagh, Co. Monaghan, Ireland Tel: 00353 47 80500 Fax: 00353 47 80501 UK Tel: 07815 314990 Email: info@combilift.com Web: www.combilift.com

Airport Road West, Sydenham, Belfast, BT3 9EE. Tel: 028 9045 5588 E-mail: info@calorgas.ie Website: www.calorgas.ie Type of Business: Supplier of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in both bulk and cylinder. Delivering an energy solution that is effective and economical. Full design service and technical advice and guidance. 24-hour emergency call out.

PRODUCTS/SERVICES: Commercial Catering, Water Heating, Space Heating, Air Handling, Alfresco Catering, Outdoor Heating Solutions, - Living Flame Fires, Tumble Drying.

52| directory Glass / Glazing

As an energy solutions specialist and a leader in the LP Gas market, our business goes far beyond simply managing and supplying your 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 your application.

The technical expertise of our Energy Solutions Team affords customers peace of mind in entrusting us with the design and installation of their gas system, whatever the application. Our experience covers a comprehensive range of markets including domestic (both single dwelling and metered estates), catering, commercial, industrial, agricultural and automotive .

Whether an end user, architect, developer or planning consultant, Flogas has the knowledge and expertise to ensure you get the most effective energy solution for your project, large or small.

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

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

Supplying commerical glass solutions to the UK and Ireland's leading architects and developers • In-house Technical Team • Commercial Sealed Units • Available with Super Spacer TriSeal • Structural Units • Special Glass - Spandrel Panels Camden Glass Units 4-7, Steeple Industrial Estate, Antrim, BT41 1AB Tel: 028 9446 2419 E-mail: info@camdenglass.co.uk Web: www.camdenglass.co.uk

HANDLING SOLUTIONS

Heyn Handling Solutions comprises 4 Operational Divisons, offering bespoke solutions for all your handling needs.

• Engineering Solutions (cranes & hoists) • Forktruck Solutions • Shipping Solutions • Waste Solutions 1 Corry Place, Belfast Harbour Estate BT3 9AH

Industrial Doors

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

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

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

Metal Finishing

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

Tel: 028 9035 0000 Web: www.heyn.co.uk

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

Insurance Intermediaries

METAL MESH

Local construction insurance expertise at competitive terms 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

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

Contact Keith Hynds or David Stevenson

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

"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

directory |53 PUMP DISTRIBUTORS

PAVING Hire Centres 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:

• • • • • •

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

FreePhone

0800 1 970 970

PLASTIC SHEETS/ SHAPES

The world's leading brands of plastic sheets, rods, films and tubes all available from Comco

PLANT AND MACHINERY HIRE

Contractors: • Access Equipment • Mixers • Compressors • Dumpers • Concrete Equipment • Generators • Rollers • Mini Diggers • Site Accommodation • Skid Steers • Telescopic Forklifts • Welders

• Perspex • Lexan solid polycarbonate • Marlon multi wall polycarbonate • Engineering plastics • Machined Parts

Site Survey

Design

Supply

Installation

Spares

Maintenance

• 'Chopper' Pumps for Arduous Sewage & Effluent Applications.

• Water & Sewage Centrifugal Pumps & Package systems.

• External High Efficiency Tank Mixing Systems.

• Lightweight Portable Lifting Davits & Gantries.

• Turnkey Wastewater Pumping Stations.

• Static and Pump Action CSO Screens.

• Screenings Conditioning Equipment.

• Inlet Fine Screens for WwTW. • Storm Tank Flushing Systems.

• Static Bag Screens.

• Odour Abatement.

• Flow Regulators.

• Macerators.

All BPF operatives are fully trained to current Health & Safety Regulations, including 'Confined Spaces' Entry as required.

24 Stockmans Way, Musgrave Park Industrial Estate, Belfast BT9 7ET Tel: 028 9066 8358 Fax: 028 9066 0623 Email: sales@comcoplastics.co.uk Web: www.comcoplastics.co.uk

BPF Distributors & Pumps Ltd Industrial Estate, Killough Road, Downpatrick, Co. Down. BT30 6LJ

Home - Owners • Gardening • Sanding • Heating & Drying • Decorating • Scaffolding • Saws • Drills

(NI) T: 028 4461 5777 F: 028 4461 4250 (ROI) T: (01) 4780665 F: (01) 4780678 W:www.bpf-ltd.com E:info@bpf-ltd.com

DEPOTS AT: Coleraine • Ballymena • Belfast • Mid-Ulster • Derry • Banbridge • Magherafelt 102 Bushmills Road, Coleraine, BT52 2BT 'lo-call' 0845 603 33 44 Web: www.cphire.com

If you wish to advertise contact:

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218 carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

DRILLING & PUMPING SUPPLIES LTD 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

54| directory REcruitment

SPECIALIST PERMANENT RECRUITMENT

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

• Licensed Trade • FMCG • Marketing • Hospitality • Technical Sales • Construction • Advertising/Media • Pharmaceutical/Medical • IT • Telecoms • Foodservice • Retail

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

FIELD MARKETING SPECIALIST • Merchandising • Auditors • Heavy Duty Installations • Quality Teams • Sales Blitzes • Contract Sales • POS Management • Mystery Shopping • Promotions/ Demonstrations • HR Consultancy • Payroll

Sales Placement Contract People Ltd. Unit A4, 17 Heron Road, Sydenham Business Park, Belfast, BT3 9LE Tel: 028 9045 5040 Fax: 028 9073 9058 E-mail: info@spcpl.co.uk Web: www.spcpl.co.uk

REtaining walls

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

SAFETY

Sports ground contractors

STEEL STOCKHOLDING Coen For Cares Coen Steel Services the 32 counties

Specialists in: • Emerald Synthetic Grass Surfacing • Conipur Athletics Track Systems • PolyTop Polymeric MUGA Facilities • Playground Equipment & Safety Surfacing

HEAD OFFICE Woodside Road Industrial Estate woodside Road Ballymena BT42 4QJ T: +44 (0)28 2563 8666 F: +44 (0)28 2563 8555 e: info@crawfordgroupireland.com w: www.crawfordgroupireland.com

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

The Reinforcement People We supply reinforcing stock bars and coil cut to length cut and bent. Fabric reinforcement standard sizes and non-standard sizes. Plastic spacers and accessories: construction wire, PC strand and wire. We also supply I.P.E's H.R: H.R.P.O: C.R: Galvanized Coil: Slit coil: Tight tolerance blanks: Cut to length, sheet or plate.

Northern Ireland Office Tel: 02890 844087 Fax: 02890 832521 Oranmore Office, Co. Galway Tel: 0035391 790044 Fax: 0035391 790288 Dublin Office: Tel: 0035312 786009 Warehouses at Greenore, Galway

STreet Furniture

Providing on-site safety for: • Construction • Maintenance • Engineering Environmental Street Furniture is the UK and Ireland's leading suppliers of external street furniture, exterior lighting including LED's and highways products.

Lifeline Air Bags Mobile: 07748 786 076 Fax: 028 8772 9262 E-mail: malachymckee@me.com Web: www.lifelineairbags.co.uk

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

security FENCING •

•

•

Security Fencing - Business Parks - Warehouses - Residential Sports Fencing - Tennis Courts - Soccer - Multi-sport Facilities Manufacturing - Custom Mesh Panel - Manufacturing at the right price

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

Valley Business Centre 67 Church Road Newtownabbey Belfast, BT36 7LS Tel: 028 90 552654 Fax: 028 90 551661 Web: www.worldofesf.com

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

JN Cummins & Co. Ltd. is a leading industrial security fencing specialist. The company operates a one-stop-shop in fence-manufacturing and distributes all over Ireland, the UK and parts of Europe & Africa.

We believe in offering our products at the best competitive prices and terms available, and with our own transport and delivery system and newly constructed purposebuilt offices, excellent customer service and care is ensured at all times.

Retain Solutions Ltd 56 York Street, Belfast BT15 1AS Tel: 028 9031 3881 Email: retain@retain.co.uk www.retain.co.uk

JNC Fencing Contact: Dermot Jones N. Ireland Contracts Manager 07585 776181 - Mob Tel: 00353 62 62214 - Head Office E-mail: info@jncfence.com Web: www.jncfence.com

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

directory |55 Wall & DOOR PROTECTION

TRAINING

Training Solutions (NI) Limited is one of Northern Ireland's leading training companies. We offer excellent training and development to both public and private sector organizations. The main areas of training include Construction, Health & Safety, Employee Skills and Management Development. We currently provide training for over 30 of Northern Ireland's top 100 companies with high quality tuition and administration. Training Solutions (NI) Ltd is an accredited centre for NEBOSH, IOSH, CSR, City & Guilds, ILM, Driver CPC & SPA (Safe Pass Alliance) Courses and Qualifications.

t: 028 9448 8100 f: 028 9448 8101 e: info@trainingsolutionsni.co.uk w: www.trainingsolutionsni.com

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact:

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

TREE CARE SERVICES

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

Visual Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

waste management

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.

We have over 45 years of experience of wall and door protection combined with a wealth of knowledge and a wide product range which is held in stock for immediate distribution.

If you wish to advertise contact:

Contact us for further information or visit www.yeomanshield.com where you can view the complete Yeoman Shield brochure.

Contact our head office with regards to coverage for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland: Yeoman Shield c/o Harrison Thompson & Co Ltd Whitehall Estate Whitehall Road Leeds LS12 5JB Tel: +44 113 279 5854 Email: sallyann@yeomanshield.com

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

• A national brand presence • An industry-leading Ten-Year Insurance Backed Guarantee that homeowners can really trust.

• Trained installers and surveyors • Global reputation of the VEKA PVC-U system Network VEKA Ltd Farrington Road, Burnley BB11 5DB Tel: (01282) 473170 Fax: (01282) 473175 E-mail: networkveka@networkveka.com Web: www.networkveka.com

If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact: Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218

carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

Caroline McClean 028 9078 3218 carolinemcclean@greerpublications.com

56| digest

Construction recognized at Viscount awards Seven of the Northern Ireland’s most dynamic companies were honoured at the fifth annual Aer Lingus Viscount awards in London, three of which are involved in the construction industry.

The Viscount Awards were presented to those companies who have best demonstrated a positive impact on the Northern Ireland economy and a strong collaboration between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Medium Company of the year award went to Brookvent - a company chosen for it’s ambitious export strategy, culminating in the development of eight new markets and their innovative range of new mechanical ventilation systems.

Small Company of the Year was The Deluxe Group which has recently invested almost half a million pounds in new state of the art design machinery to expand exports, and was recently awarded a £2m contract against international competition for

1. Aer Lingus cabin crew member Julie Davidson; Gillian Culhane, Head of Press and Media Relations at Aer Lingus; John Toner, Managing Director of Williams Industrial Services and Paul Clark, UTV.

works to a major theme park in Paris.

The Most Innovative Company was judged to be Williams Industrial Services who impressed by their ability to leapfrog European competition in order to design a state of the art anerobic digestion plant specifically to suit the Irish farmer.

Valerie Abbott, Aer Lingus Commercial Manager, said: ‘We were hugely impressed by the calibre of this year’s entrants who are a reminder of the immense talent creating prosperity across

Northern Ireland and indeed, across the world. As an airline we are proud to connect businesses with opportunities internationally every day via our Belfast City Routes.’

The other companies were: Exporter of the year - Sepha; Large Company - Kainos; Entrepreneur of the Year - Peter Hannon of Hannon Meats; Overall Excellence - Andor Thechnology; also Outstanding Contribution = Mark Huffam of Generator Entertainment.

1.

2. Julie Davidson, Aer Lingus cabin crew; Gillian Culhane, Head of Press and Media Relations at Aer Lingus; Corin Hawthorne, Head of Business Development at The Deluxe Group and Paul Clark, UTV. 3. Paul Clark, UTV; Gillian Culhane, Head of Press and Media Relations at Aer Lingus; Declan Gormley, Managing Director of Brookvent and Aer Lingus cabin crew member Julie Davidson.

2.

3.

Business opportunities with Crossrail Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has urged Northern Ireland businesses to take advantage of the opportunities that London’s £14.8billion Crossrail project has to offer.

The Minister was speaking during a visit to Dromore-based Environmental Fabrications which has already supplied 300 tonnes of steel to Crossrail, Europe’s largest infrastructure project which will build a major new rail link across London that is on a scale nearly twice the size of the London 2012 Olympics.

Arlene Foster said: “Crossrail is one of the most significant infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the UK and presents huge business opportunities for Northern Ireland companies across a broad range of sectors. My department, through Invest Northern Ireland, is actively working to encourage and assist many more firms, like Environmental Fabrications, to investigate the wide variety of contracts available.”

The Minister was accompanied by Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan as part of an awareness drive to make sure firms from across Northern Ireland take advantage of the opportunities.

It is estimated that Crossrail will create at least 75,000 business opportunities.

Invest NI and Crossrail have also organised an event that will be attended by more than 50 local construction and civil engineering companies to meet with high profile contractors working on the project.

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan (right) congratulate Environmental Fabrications Managing Director Joe Donaldson (centre) on the firm’s success in securing a major supplier contract with Crossrail. The Dromore-based company will supply steel, gantry cranes and structural support to the £15 billion project to provide a new railway service for London and the South East. Also pictured are Martin Rowark, Procurement Director, Crossrail and Alastair Hamilton, Chief Executive, Invest Northern Ireland.

digest

|57

Utilities United in Northern Ireland Severe weather in March put to the test a mutual aid protocol set up among Northern Ireland’s main utility companies. It is believed this approach in Northern Ireland is the first of its kind across the United Kingdom.

It has been over a year since new structures were put in place by the Chief Executives of BT, Northern Ireland Electricity, Northern Ireland Water and Phoenix Natural Gas to identify ways in which the companies could provide mutual support and aid to each other during periods

of extreme weather or other unforeseen situations.

Trevor Haslett, Chief Executive of NI Water, explained: “Although all of our companies require specialist skills to repair our networks, we have been able to identify a number of areas where we can work together for the mutual benefit of our customers in Northern Ireland. In particular we have looked at shared resources such as people, materials, equipment, transportation vehicles or access to buildings.”

Heavy snow and strong winds in March damaged utility networks

across Northern Ireland and affected electricity, water and telecoms services to thousands of customers.

Alex Crossan, BT Managing Director Networks, reflected: “Although we had carried out a simulation, March’s storm was the first time we used the mutual aid protocol for real. Our plans worked well and we were able to share equipment and manpower to speed up repairs to the overhead telecoms network in some of the worst affected areas”.

Experts believe that extreme weather across the UK and Ireland is becoming more commonplace and local Northern Ireland Executive Ministers have commended the utility companies for progressing a more formal process for working together in such instances if appropriate. The Chief Executive’s group has also set up several subgroups with senior representatives from each company, covering: Operations, Stakeholder Communications and Customer Communications.

Foster officially opens Newtownabbey street furniture business

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster is pictured with Alan Lowry Managing Director at Environmental Street Furniture

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has officially opened the new premises of Environmental Street Furniture Limited in Newtownabbey, which has benefited from Invest Northern Ireland’s assistance and the Jobs Fund to recruit five new staff members..

The Co. Antrim businessman Alan Lowry designs and sources bespoke street furniture products and recently invested almost £200,000 as part of plans to target sales opportunities in Great Britain, Europe and beyond. “Our marketing activities will initially be focused on opportunities in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland with a view to then targeting business in Scandinavia, USA, Middle East and Australia.”

Latest labour market figures

Figures released for the period January - March 2013 show that the Northern Ireland unemployment rate increased by 0.3 percentage points over the quarter to 8.1%.

More recent figures for April 2013 show that the number of unemployment benefit claimants decreased by 200 over the month.

Revised figures indicate that this

is the third consecutive month in which there has been a decrease on this measure.

Commenting on the figures, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “Although there has been a rise in the unemployment rate over the quarter, the number of people on the claimant count in February has decreased. It is encouraging that the claimant count has now decreased for three consecutive months for the

first time since August 2007.

“This fall of 600 in the claimant count over the last three months is very welcome. While it is too early to read too much into this, as there is still considerable uncertainty in the global economy, is important that we build on these positive signs.

“Over 1000 new jobs have been announced recently, the majority of which are high value with an average salary above the private

sector average. This includes the announcement that Allstate are to create up to 650 new high quality jobs at their locations in Belfast, Londonderry & Strabane, which is a welcome boost for the North West.

“My continued aim is to ensure the Executive collectively supports a business environment that is attractive to inward investors and encourages locally owned companies to grow.”

58| web directory

web directory The Internet is a big place, so make sure you get noticed with a listing on SPECIFY's Web Directory pages. Flag up your home page to the people who matter. To secure your listing, contact Siobhan on 028 9078 3218 or email siobhankissward@greerpublications.com www.larsenbuildingproducts.com

www.spanwall.com

www.calorgasni.com

www.1080.co.uk

www.flogasni.com

www.gqaqualifications.com

web directory |59 www.jncfence.com

www.nkfencing.com

www.acefixings.com

www.contractceilings.com

www.bestvaluegabions.com

www.whitemountain.co.uk

Whitemountain Quarries Ltd, 11 Sheepwalk Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim. BT28 3RD Telephone: 028 9250 1000 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 028 9250 1100

www.ridgefence.com

www.willisinsurance.co.uk

60| web directory www.mccuskerdemolition.com

www.heynwaste.co.uk

www.petal.co.uk

www.masterschoice.co.uk

www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk

www.cphire.com

www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk

www.sdg.ie

web directory |61 www.mclarke.co.uk

www.balloohire.com

www.ahcladding.com

www.treemaintenance.com

www.pronetsafetyservices.com

www.swissfacades.com

www.gyproc.ie

If you want to advertise your Webpage here then call...

Siobhan on: 028 9078 3218

62| product news AICO EXHIBITS IT'S MARKET-LEADING SMOKE & CO ALARMS

EXPANDED TANK CLEANING RANGE

E: enquiries@aico.co.uk W: www.aico.co.uk

E: Ivan@bete.co.uk W: www.bete.co.uk

A

ico is pleased to be exhibiting its range of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarms at The Chartered Institute of Housing’s ‘Housing 2013 Conference & Exhibition’ in Manchester, 25-27th June.

Centre stage will be Aico’s unique RadioLINK Professional wireless interconnect mains powered smoke and CO alarms.

Interconnecting smoke alarms in a domestic property is a requirement of BS 5839: Pt.6: 2004 (the standard for domestic fire alarm installations) and Building Regulations; it provides an earlier warning for residents and the best chance of escape.

However, hard wired interconnection can be time consuming, disruptive and costly.

RadioLINK, on the other hand, works by allowing mains powered Smoke, Heat and Multi Sensor alarms to be wirelessly interconnected. If one alarm on the system is triggered, Radio Frequency signals are used to cause every other alarm in the property to sound.

Aico broke new ground when it launched RadioLINK in 2004 as the very first wireless alarm interconnect system in the domestic field. To date, over 1 million RadioLINK alarms have been fitted in private and social housing throughout the UK.

STUNNING NEW APEER-RANCE

N

ozzle and Spraying System specialists BETE Ltd have expanded their extensive range of tank cleaning products following a number of modifications and improvements to their main tank cleaning ranges. On-going product development and customer feedback has resulted in the following changes to their three key product areas.

The HydroWhirl-S range of 316 stainless steel rotary tank cleaners have four new standard models added for increased versatility. HydroWhirl nozzles are designed to meet the exacting standards for effective cleaningin-place (CIP) and so are ideal for food, dairy, beverage, pharmaceutical and chemical industry cleaning applications.

The HydroWhirl Poseidon range of PTFE rotary tank cleaners has a new lower flow rate model along with other modifications. This results in a slower rotation speed for increased dwell time and highly effective cleaning power for more challenging tank cleaning situations.

The Hydrowhirl Orbitor range of high power impingement cleaners is designed to meet the most exacting cleaning and hygienic standards and options now include a new twin head, 8 nozzle variant for swift cleaning cycles as short as 5 minutes.

BREEM EXCELLENT STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

Tel: 028 2563 2200 E: sales@apeer.co.uk

E: info@ancon.co.uk W: www.ancon.co.uk

O

ne of the most exciting developments to happen to composite doors in a decade has been launched by Apeer with 12 cutting edge new designs. The Modern Door (MODO) collection from Apeer is a design-led portfolio of contemporary new doors, developed and fully manufactured at Apeer’s state-of-the-art production facility in Ballymena. The launch comes ten years on from production of the company’s first composite doorset in 2003. In the decade since then, Apeer has become widely regarded as the most advanced door entrance system on the market. Stainless steel glazing trims not only give the new MODO collection a truly contemporary edge but further enhance already formidable levels of security. Other features of the MODO collection include: • Toughened, 60mm thick warm edge, triple glazed units as standard • Double rebate system with inner fibreglass frame • Kitemark cylinder, multi-point locking system and steel dog bolts • Timber effect fibreglass door leaf for hassle-free maintenance • All designs are available in extra wide 1100mm size

3

,000 metres of Ancon brick support angle and over 800 Ancon windposts have been supplied to the construction of new student accommodation at the University of Liverpool’s Chatham Street campus. The project comprises an East and West block of six and nine storeys respectively and has been designed,

by Stride Treglown, to be BREEAM Excellent. The concrete frame with traditional brick cladding provides the buildings with thermal mass, which will moderate temperature fluctuations and minimise heating and cooling costs during occupancy. Construction of the attractive façade, thought to be one of the largest brick packages awarded in the UK in recent years, involved the support of masonry at every floor level by an Ancon stainless steel support system. The support angles feature slots in some sections to allow lintels to be fixed to the underside at window openings, and are radiussed in other locations to support curved brickwork. The scheme provides a range of dwelling types including single bedrooms, studio flats and twobed apartments, as well as high specification catering and conferencing facilities.

cgi international expands fire glass solutions

mapei's new ultracoat range

Tel: 01942 710720 E: fire.glass.solutions@pyroguard.eu

Tel: 0121 508 6970 W: www.mapei.co.uk

F

ire glass solutions specialist, CGI International, has extended its market leading Pyroguard fire resistant glazing with the launch of Pyroguard-T – a range of high performance fire glass products, which provide access to some of the largest tested sizes available on the market.

A gel-filled product manufactured with toughened glass, Pyroguard-T is extremely robust during installation and offers excellent impact strength of up to 1B1 (under European standards). Spanning fire ratings of E30 to EI 120, Pyroguard-T is manufactured to bespoke sizes by CGI International and shipped straight to site. Offering the additional benefit of large format applications, Pyroguard-T is certified for use in sizes up to and including 3m in height or 3.6m² in area.

Approved for use in an extensive suite of steel profiles, Pyroguard-T is primarily aimed at the steel fabrication and installer market. However, the product has also been tested in a core range of timber applications. In response to projects which increasingly demand superior acoustic performance, Pyroguard-T also offers an efficient solution, with the fire glass delivering sound reduction of up to 45dB.

M

apei have launched their new Ultracoat Range to the UK market. Already established in Europe the comprehensive range offers a complete system of products to achieve the ultimate finish for wooden flooring. The range has varying characteristics, to bring out different features dependant on the wood species, the number of coats and the end result preferred.

Ultracoat Aqua Plus is a filler of high residual solids content for mixing with sawdust for filling joints in wooden floors; Ultracoat Universal Base is a one-component, rapid-drying basecoat; Ultracoat Premium Base is a two-component base coat with high insulating properties; Ultracoat Easy Plus is a one-component polyurethane varnish suitable for floors with frequent pedestrian use; Ultracoat High Traffic is a two-component polyurethane varnish for floors subject to extremely high levels of pedestrian use; Ultracoat Oil is a natural drying solvent-free resin for treating wooden floors, giving a warm rustic effect finish; Ultracoat Oil Care is a natural drying resin oil for finishing floors treated with Ultracoat Oil to provide ongoing maintenance and refresh old floors and Ultracoat Universal Cleaner is a concentrated detergent for varnished or oiled wooden floors.

To have your product featured in Specify's Product News section please contact Siobhan Kissward on T: 028 9078 3218 E: siobhankissward@greerpublications.com Don’t miss out!

business & economy |63

Peace of mind without breaking the bank!

Holly Stanley of Willis & Company Private Clients on High Value Home Insurance

A

s businesses continue the battle for survival, it is important to look at those “miscellaneous” insurances which may not have been reviewed for some time or perhaps even lapsed in an effort to save costs.

Historically, clients entrusted their personal insurances to an insurance broker or agent or to their bank or building society, broadly assuming that the relevant cover would be there should a claim arise. Competition from direct insurance providers and the emergence of internet comparison sites has produced a huge variety of products enabling individuals now to shop around at their leisure and make their own comparisons on both cover and pricing. Home, motor and travel policies have become price driven commodities with little attention paid to onerous special conditions which only come to light when an incident occurs.

Having provided its own connected corporate and commercial clients with a bespoke service for

personal insurances for more than 35 years, Willis & Company have recently decided to promote their Private Clients Division to the local business community.

Executive Chairman Robert Willis comments, “A review of the personal insurances portfolio often reveals severe underinsurance, particularly on house contents and valuables.

Similarly, policy wordings may be unnecessarily restrictive or fail to reflect the current needs of the insured. We believe there is a gap in the market for a broker offering local expertise in this area and we are happy to invest accordingly” New Business Account Handler Holly Stanley says, “At Willis and Company we realise that some of our clients need more than the standard household or motor policy. Our dedicated team of professionals, specialising in High Value Homes, assess the insurance risk and tailor a solution that is genuinely right for the client and their particular lifestyle. We work

extremely closely with our Private Clients to ensure they receive the most comprehensive policy cover but at competitive premiums.

We take the time to understand their specific needs, covering everything from individual works of art, supercars and yachts through to extensive collections and holiday homes. Sometimes there is a need for extended cover closer to home – for example, expensive garden furniture, barbecues and patio heaters may require more than a simple “contents in the open” provision.

Specialist services include:• Complimentary Home Appraisal • No limits on sums insured – A collection of fine art, antiques or jewellery, may be worth more than realised. Our high value insurance policy is specifically designed to take into consideration the requirements of having such a collection.

• Worldwide cover for contents as standard • The option to include motor

Holly Stanley

insurance for either a single vehicle or an entire family fleet • Our specialist Insurers offer a no quibble claims service which ensures fast settlement of claims.

• Professional independent advice on security issues • The option to include annual Travel cover • A common renewal date for all personal insurance needs makes it easy to review and renew the portfolio.

In addition :• Competitive quotes on marine insurance, for boats of all sizes.

• Holiday homes can also be covered either in addition to the normal residence including overseas property • Competitive quotations on “buy to let” properties • Cover for high performance and classic cars and motorcycles

L-R Brenda Taylor, Holly Stanley, Amanda McConkey & Catherine McCoy

For further information on Willis & Company, contact Holly Stanley and Amanda McConkey at:

Tel: 028 9032 9042

Email: info@willisinsurance.co.uk Web: www.willisinsurance.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority

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 May 2013. 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 £11.00 £11.40 £10.80 £10.80 £11.30 £15.20 £15.20 £12.10

BRICKS

FINISHED SOFTWOOD

Metric-sized concrete bricks delivered

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. per 100m Parana Pine 20x8 £55.70 44x8 £86.40 Whitewood 32x12 £47.30 69x12 £74.60 32x19 £56.00 44x19 £67.00 32x32 £74.00 69x32 £125.00 69x44 £161.60 94x44 £211.00 69x69 £240.00

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

per 1,000 £338.00 £347.00 £298.00 £323.00 £287.00 £283.00 £262.00

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 £43.90 75x19 £65.60 125x19 £106.70 38x25 £39.90 75x25 £48.50 150x25 £95.90 50x38 £74.40 100x38 £112.90 150x38 £89.50 50x50 £89.50 100x50 £141.20 125x50 £159.80 100x75 £194.50 200x75 £449.00 150x100 £349.00

CEMENT Bulk Cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area per tonne Ordinary Portland Cement £125.00 Sulphate Resisting Cement £150.00

Ordinary Portland Cement

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

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 £323.00

CEMENT MORTARS In full loads delivered to Central Belfast

per tonne Standard 1 lime mortar £21.00 Tinted mortar ref.

Y4 £39.00 Y15 £46.00 Y135 £39.00 Y91 £48.00 Y10 £45.00

6mm sanded £46.60

9mm sanded £48.30

12mm sanded £64.00

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 £401.00 440x215x100 7Nmm2 £391.00 440x215x100 10Nmm2 £344.00 2 4440x300x100 7Nmm £472.00 440x300x100 10Nmm2 £447.00 Concrete brick 15Nmm2 £120.00 440x215x100 Tolite £766.00

6mm £58.10

9mm £69.80

12mm £87.30

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

£273.00 £329.00 £291.00 £6.70 £9.80 £12.15 £8.00 £9.20 £12.20 £25.50

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 £60.10 1:2:4 by volume £73.30 1:3:6 by volume £65.50 2 20 N/mm :20mm aggregate £59.50 25 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £63.00 30 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £65.00

Fibre Cement Slates ex-yard per 1,000 £1460.00 £1580.00

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

£850.00 £850.00 £850.00 per tile £4.50 £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

£80.30 £60.50 £69.90 £80.80 £94.00

£197.30 £280.60 £218.70 £329.60 £449.00 £267.90 £403.20 £551.80

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 £605.00 £660.00

8 £605.00 £660.00

10 £605.00 £655.00

12 £605.00 £655.00

20 £605.00 £655.00

25 £605.00 £655.00

32 £605.00 £655.00

40 £605.00 £655.00 Mesh Fabric to BS 4483 ex-yard per sheet (one or mixed references)

per sheet BS reference A 98 £25.00

A142 £25.00

A193 £30.00

A252 £33.00

A393 £55.00

B503 £50.00

B785 £70.00

• Focus on Interior including washrooms and Urinals • Insulation

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

per tonne UC 152x152x23 £795.00 203x203x46 £1015.00 254x254x73 £1130.00 305x305x118 £965.00 356x368x153 £1135.00 UB 305x165x40 356x127x37 406x140x39 457x152x52 533x210x82

SAWN WHITEWOOD

CEF/Specify Construction Excellence Awards • The finalists in Focus

STEEL REINFORCEMENT

ROOF SLATES AND TILES Thrutone Thrutone Relief

SOFTWOOD FLOORING, SHEETING AND PANELING

£1015.00 £965.00 £965.00 £965.00 £965.00

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths.

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

£36.50 £68.06 £94.24 £175.56 £109.56 £187.71 £232.65 £405.90 £209.24 £455.60 £697.47

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

6mm 10mm 12.5mm sanded sanded sanded 2400x1200 £45.70 £48.80 £65.21

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

£78.10 £93.30 £108.80 £163.20 £95.80 £127.60 £172.00 £233.00 £324.10

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 £9.80 £21.70 £3.15 £7.00 £10.50 £23.70 £11.50 £23.70 £5.80 £15.40 £5.70 £13.60 £16.00 £30.40 £17.80 £31.00 £17.15 £28.80 £20.90 £54.80

August 2013

66| KNI Interview

Q&A with Simon Murray of KNI Simon Murray is Head of Structured Cabling at Belfast-based KNI, a specialist supplier of IP based infrastructure services including cabling networks, intelligent DC lighting and CCTV. present it will be those relationships earned over many years that see you through the tough times. In short, the customer must be king and developing the art of listening is a must.

Give us some idea of your career to date It’s hard to believe it has been 15 years, but KNI has been my home since I left Queen’s University Belfast back in 1998.

At that time the economy bore little or no resemblance to that of today, so I consider myself somewhat fortunate in that respect.

My career has evolved solely within KNI and I’ve been happy for it to remain that way as we continue to push boundaries, new technologies and the geographical reach of the business. It’s very much been a process of continuous improvement and innovation.

Today I occupy the position as Head of Structured Cabling and hold a seat on the organisation’s management team.

What do you most enjoy about your job?

As any customer facing individual will tell you, there are very few situations that compare to the success of securing a major contract, especially following a prolonged period of design, engagement and general foundation laying. I still get the same reward and satisfaction from securing a contract today that I did back in ‘98.

What was the first lesson you learned in business?

I suppose this lesson is built on an old saying in Northern Ireland that “people buy from people”. The customer has to be central to the business strategy, objectives and its core focus at all times. You can have ISO, Investors in People and many other well recognised standards of quality for your business, but if you don’t take the time to properly get to know and listen to your customers it will count for nothing. In times of economic trial like we have at

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Without meaning to sound clichéd, I don’t look at this with regards to KNI on an individual achievement basis.

The company has grown and evolved over the years and its continued success is down to the hard work and effort of the team.

If you look at the make-up of the management team and the engineering base, many employees have in excess of 15 years’ service.

As the company was only formed in 1996 I think that level of experience speaks for itself.

Since inception there have been many wonderful KNI projects that are now a permanent feature of the Northern Ireland skyline. Each of these schemes represents a significant team achievement in their own right, but if I had to pick two that stand out from an extensive list then the Titanic signature building and New York Stock Exchange building both deserve note.

And your biggest mistake?

I suppose that would be not learning to say no when it was appropriate and made sound business sense to do so. Initially that came from a sense of naivety when I was younger but it was a hard and at times painful learning curve.

It’s OK to have a good drive, real motivation and want to please others but you need to take a balanced approach without trying to be all things to all people. If you don’t adopt a balanced approach, eventually something will give.

What makes your company different?

Simple - a willingness to embrace change and support innovation. I think some Northern Ireland businesses are unfortunately stagnating because they are too ingrained in negative aspects of the old school way of doing things.

Even in today’s climate there is a prevailing attitude in some quarters that “this is the way we have always done things”, regardless of the business impact.

KNI’s market is changing and the adoption of IP (Internet Protocol) into more and more building services

and associated technologies, such as our IP based intelligent DC lighting infrastructure Redwood Systems offering, will be the benchmark for the future.

IP opens up many doors and if we can use this to offer our customers technologies with real, tangible benefit, by combining a competitive edge with associated cost savings, that will set us apart.

In many cases the benefits of IP are re-writing the manual books but taking a lead in this area is crucial for KNI to prevent the company simply becoming another me-too within the building services industry.

Combine this with a solid reputation for innovation and quality and you have the basis of a winning formula.

What are your views on the current economic climate?

Northern Ireland is taking a right battering at present, especially in the construction sector. There have been some very high profile casualties and the fact that we are the only region of the UK still retracting gives cause for concern. Coupled with the fact that the Republic, our closest geographical trading partner, is still enduring major economic pain, the future does look challenging. That said, however, there are still some excellent opportunities for KNI in both Northern Ireland and further afield. More than ever we are being invited as specialists in our chosen field to assist with design and build schemes to help other key supply chain partners gain that crucial competitive edge. Bringing added value via this route sets KNI apart and positions us well to weather the storm.

On a personal level I’m concerned about the impact on our young people if the current situation persists. The brain drain to other European territories and further afield will have a long lasting impact which will be hard to recover from.

Recessions don’t last forever, but in many respects we are in uncharted waters.

How do you think your clients would describe you?

I would hope that they would see me as a friendly, warm person that has embodied the can-do attitude of KNI. Ultimately you would need to ask them, however that would have been my core aim when I took up the role back in 1998.

How do you see the business developing over the next 12 months or so?

It will continue to evolve and ensure that it is fit for purpose in the future. A lot of effort will focus on getting the message out on KNI’s complementary technologies such as the previously referenced Redwood Systems which will enhance an allencompassing IP based offering. This will incorporate design, install and maintenance services with real added value and tangible cost saving and energy usage benefits. We need to get away from a market that is so heavily weighted on the price factor.

As my old university professor would say, if you base your business to succeed purely on the price factor, it is doomed to failure. He was right.

How do you relax?

My wife Michelle and our two boys, Lewis and Jude, play a big part here.

I call it my reality check, but it’s definitely the best medicine in respect of getting away from the office and helping to achieve that balanced approach.

I’m a real music buff and I suppose some people may describe me as a tad obsessive in this respect. I grew up with the distinctively diverse genres of heavy metal and house music and I’ve a large music library which is testimony to both.

Music helps me chill out and I simply couldn’t live without its raw edge, energy, emotion and feelgood factor.

Which three people would you have to dinner? And why?

Not likely to feature around the same dinner table any time soon, but Sir Alex Ferguson, Pete Tong and Jesus Christ would be the hot picks.

Sir Alex Ferguson because I’m a lifelong United fan and I respect his dogged determination and drive to succeed. I’m sure my mum would gladly invite him for a Sunday Roast and an interesting chat post retirement.

Pete Tong because for me he is the Godfather and pioneer of electronic music in the UK. His knowledge base is simply immense and we could get excited talking music for hours on end.

Finally, Jesus Christ because we all have a benchmark in life. For me my faith is important and helps keep me grounded whilst appreciating what I have on this earth. I would love the answers to so much, but for now I’m more than content with the wonderful lessons He teaches.

Tel: 028 9055 1300 Web:www.farrans.com

Farrans acted as Principal Contractor on the Bangor Aurora Aquatic & Leisure Complex and were delighted to have been involved in such an exciting landmark project. John Wilson, Managing Director of Farrans, commented â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;It has been such a privilege for Farrans to be involved with such an exciting project which has resulted in these state-of-the-art facilitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Innovation

A leading firm for Construction in Northern Ireland Chambers UK: A Clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to the UK Legal Profession, 2013 As one of the few law firms in the market to have a dedicated construction law practice with specialist team members based full time in Belfast and Dublin, Arthur Cox is uniquely placed to advise all parties involved in construction and engineering projects in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our Construction Group combines contentious and non-contentious experience and we understand the ever-changing commercial objectives and imperatives of our clients.

To find out more about our firm and how our Construction Group could assist your organisation, please contact: Alastair Todd, Partner +44 28 9026 2658 alastair.todd@arthurcox.com Adrian Kerr, Associate +44 28 9026 5899 adrian.kerr@arthurcox.com or visit our website: www.arthurcox.com

Specify - (Construction) Advert May 2013.indd 1

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