Specify November 2014

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

NOVEMBER 2014

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Expanding Ideas RIDGEWAY

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PAT BURNS Editor SIOBHAN KISSWARD Sales Manager HELEN WRIGHT Art Editor

Lagan Water Makes a Splash!

Neil McKenzie, Lagan Water and Rhona Quinn CEF President

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agan Water took the top honours at the 2014 CEF Specify Construction Excellence Awards. The company faced tough opposition from Gilbert Ash for its redevelopment of Ravenhill rugby stadium as well as from Tracey Brothers for their restoration of the SS Nomadic and the Hamilton Dock.

The project at Clay Lake near Keady may not have been the most glamorous but the Lagan Water team were tasked with a difficult project. The new works for Clay Lake Water Treatment plant included the design, build and commissioning of a 6 ML/d (Mega Litres /day) Water Treatment Works but Lagan Water also had to ensure that the works could provide a minimum of 4 ML/d during construction, without interruption to supply and maintain the quality to the consumer.

Lagan Water maintained a superior water quality throughout the construction period and the client, NI Water, was delighted with

the new plant, its performance and the quality of water it provides for South Armagh.

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry was the guest speaker at the awards and spoke of the potential skills shortage in the construction industry. Addressing the delegates, the Minister said: “There have been positive signs across a range of major economic indicators, however, there remains no room for complacency and in this context skills are a key driver of growth, performance and prosperity.

“As the economic landscape improves, the construction industry’s output is projected to expand at an annual average rate of 2.3% over the next five years and employment is forecast to start rising again. I am committed to supporting the construction industry to develop the highly skilled professionals it needs to meet its immediate skills challenges and prepare for the future.

“Apprenticeships have been the lifeblood of the construction sector and the new Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships ‘Securing Our Success’ reflects the changing needs of the economy and offers

progression pathways with equal parity to the academic route,” the Minister concluded.

The skills shortage was also reiterated in the annual report from the RICS which was recently published. Writing in the report, Paul Kendrick, Northern Ireland Chairman of the RICS commented, “In relation to skills, the latest RICS and Tughans Construction Market Survey highlights that skill shortages are a growing issue for the sector. Housing starts in the last quarter were at their highest since 2007, and with many construction professionals and practitioners travelling outside of Northern Ireland to work, this is creating skills shortages at home.

This highlights the need for the sector to think seriously about how to attract, retain and progress more people, particularly women, in the sector. RICS is committed to continuing to play its role, including through its ongoing Surveying the Future campaign, but collaboration between government, the education sector and across the industry is needed,” he told delegates at the awards.

NOVEMBER 2014

contents...

6 DIGEST

Gilbert-Ash wins the highest award for British architecture for their restoration of the Everyman Theatre in Liverpool.

12 RECRUITMENT

More women are needed in the construction sector, according to the experts at Hays Recruitment.

20 CEF SPECIFY AWARDS

Our 16 page special feature includes all the winners and exclusive photos from the night out at the Culloden.

53 DIGEST

The Harvey Group are awarded the Mechanical and Electrical Services contract for the extension at the Waterfront Hall.

18 SWISS FACADES GOES BACK TO SCHOOL

Swiss Facades take a funky approach to Hazelwood Integrated Primary School.

46 CITB ANNIVERSARY

A&G Vertica provides the solution for a split level cemetery in Derry City.

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49 INTERVIEW

Specify talks to Ian Haldane, MD of Haldane Sheills, a company who has continued to expand despite the recession.

66 INTERVIEW

CEF/Specify Awards: Find out the winners at the most prestigious Awards Eveni in the Contsruction Industry Page 20

See our new website: www.willisinsurance.co.uk>>>

Specify talks to Business Development Manager at the McEvoy Group, Peter Browne.

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Gilbert-Ash constructed project wins highest award in British architecture

The Everyman Theatre, which was constructed by Northern Ireland contractor Gilbert-Ash, has won the most prestigious award in the architecture industry, beating the Shard, the Library of Birmingham and the London Aquatics Centre.

The Stirling Prize, named after the great British architect James Stirling, is awarded for the best building in the UK as decided by RIBA chartered architects and International Fellows, or in the rest of the EU by RIBA chartered architects. The awards ceremony was televised live by the

BBC. The Everyman Theatre is a newbuild project that has maintained many of the features of an old building through the use of recycled materials and exposed brick. The theatre was constructed on the same site as the old theatre, with the new building including a highly adaptable 400 seat performance space, rehearsal room, green room, public foyer, café, bar and supporting offices.

Well-known theatre architects, Haworth Tompkins, who collected the award, spent nine years working on the project and drew on themes

from their previous work at the Royal Court and Young Vic. The original theatre was taken down brick by brick and each one reused in the new building.

Ray Hutchinson, Managing Director, Gilbert-Ash, commented: “To win such a prestigious award is fantastic for our company and we are proud to have played such an integral role in making the project a success.

This is the third year in a row that a Gilbert-Ash constructed project has been shortlisted for the Stirling Prize following the Lyric Theatre in 2012 and Causeway Visitor’s Centre in 2013.

“The combination of a high-level modern finish while keeping many of the traditional features from the original space made this a very exciting project to construct. We know that this theatre will be enjoyed by many in Liverpool over the coming years. Gilbert-Ash continues to work in the city and we are currently on

site at the Liverpool Philharmonic building.”

Stephen Hodder, president of RIBA, said the architects had “struck the perfect balance between continuity and change to win the hearts and minds of the people of Liverpool”. The judges commented on the “clever use of materials, with interlocking spaces and brilliant lighting” with naturally ventilated auditoriums which maintained “total acoustic isolation”.

In his acceptance speech Steve Tompkins of Haworth Tompkins said: "Winning the RIBA Stirling Prize is an enormous honour for our project team and our clients, the reward for an intensive collaboration over almost a decade, during which we have grown to love the Everyman and the great city that it serves.”

He went on to thank Gilbert-Ash in making the Everyman Theatre such a success, commending them as a “builder of the highest calibre”.

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Calnan highly commended at World Architecture Festival Calnan, a Cork manufacturing company specialising in the engineering of bespoke steel modular buildings, is celebrating the supporting role it played in helping Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) to realise its vision for its Architecture Factory, which was highly commended under the Education & Health category of the INSIDE Awards at the World Architecture Festival in Singapore, recently.

Challenged to provide six modified shipping containers as a key element of the design, Calnan worked closely with Marc Ó Riain, CIT Department

of Architecture lecturer, to create the award-winning work spaces.

The design specified that all floors, roofs, container doors and end walls were removed, with the roof material recycled to create a serrated subdivision between the containers and the open work space. The doors and end walls were then replaced with frameless glass panels. The modification and fabrication of the containers was all done by the familyrun firm which was established by Jerry Calnan in 1973.

Joe Walsh, managing director of Calnan said:”The challenge was to create a practical and functioning workplace without jeopardising the concept of the ‘shipping container

look’.” Joe also said: ”If it can be done, we will do it! We love a challenge and we have the in-house skills and experience to provide a bespoke service, from concept right through to delivery.

“Both Jerry Calnan and I are absolutely delighted for Marc Ó Riain and the team to have received such global recognition for their work which has transformed the old Tyco Building at CIT into a creative hub for students and lecturers.”

The conversion of the shipping containers was not without its challenges but Calnans worked

closely with the CIT team and their architects, RKD, to fulfil the design brief on time and within budget.

“All credit to Marc Ó Riain and the team at CIT for having the creative design skills and vision to see the potential of a humble shipping container to become a piece of stunning contemporary interior architecture, “ said Joe Walsh.

The Architecture Factory is currently short-listed in the SBID International Design Awards, London, and took platinum in the International A'Design Awards.

Knightsbridge And McAleer & Rushe Sign £100m Student Housing Contract

Outside Zurich House, Portsmouth : l-r Simon Pollitt Development & Acquisitions Director, Knightsbridge Student Housing and Graham Mitchell, Development Director, McAleer & Rushe

Knightsbridge Student Housing and McAleer & Rushe have entered into an agreement to deliver 1600 student beds, over two sites in Bournemouth and Portsmouth with an end value of over £100m.

The contract to design and build student accommodation, comprising of 1000 beds in Portsmouth and 600 beds in

Bournemouth, is subject to planning and follows Knightsbridge Student Housing acquiring both sites from the Northern Irish group.

Knightsbridge Student Housing is led by Bob Crompton, who was the former CEO of student provider Victoria Hall. He has stated Knightsbridge’s intention is to rapidly build up an £1bn portfolio. It has already some 6,500 beds currently operational and almost 10,000 beds at varying stages of planning, design and construction.

The first phase of the Portsmouth scheme, on Stanhope Road, will see the former landmark office, Zurich House, converted to provide 400 student beds, with a purpose built second block housing a further 600 students.

To achieve a holistic redevelopment of the entire site, plans for approximately two thirds of the remaining site will explore a mix of development options including hotel, residential and commercial. It is

also proposed to create an attractive landscaped boulevard to provide access to the adjacent verdant Victoria Park.

Student housing will make up around half of the site in Bournemouth on St Paul’s Lane, St Paul’s Road, with the remainder of the site being allocated to offices, and possibly a new hotel.

Planning submissions are targeted for early 2015 which would see construction work begin in summer 2015 with delivery of the first phase in Q3 2016 and the second phase in Q3 2017.

Simon Pollitt Knightsbridge Development and Acquisitions Director said: “We are delighted to sign this agreement with McAleer & Rushe who we have got to know very well, and rate highly. These projects will create high quality student housing for Bournemouth and Portsmouth which are currently undersupplied markets, and will lend added momentum to our

development pipeline.”

McAleer & Rushe Project Development Director Graham Mitchell said: “McAleer and Rushe has ambitious targets for student housing construction, which is a very logical extension for us. We are delighted to be working with Knightsbridge and look forward to working together on other projects. This deal unlocks the regeneration of important sites in Bournemouth and Portsmouth, and is an important vote of confidence in the economic recovery of both cities.”

The deal is a significant milestone for McAleer & Rushe which has established a strong foothold in the student market.

It is set to deliver 7,500 student beds over the next five years and is also currently under contract to deliver two schemes for UNITE plc - a 750-bed scheme in Stratford, London, and a 700-bed scheme in the North East of England.

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RICS NI Awards

launched for 2015 Search for top residential, commercial and public building projects gets underway

Launching the awards at the SS Nomadic, a winner last year, are RICS NI Chairman Paul Kendrick, Ben Collins, RICS NI Director, Susan Mason, RICS NI, and awards judging chairman, Alistair Dunn.

The RICS’s annual search for Northern Ireland’s top building projects got underway recently with a call for local professionals to showcase the high calibre of their work.

The organisation’s 2015 awards will include eight categories to reflect the full breadth of excellence across the property and construction sectors in Northern Ireland.

In addition to Project of the Year, prizes will be presented in the following categories: Building Conservation Commercial Community Benefit Design & Innovation Infrastructure Regeneration Residential Tourism & Leisure

The awards got underway for 2015 with a launch event on-board last year’s Building Conservation category winner, the SS Nomadic.

Calling on professionals to enter the prestigious awards, RICS NI Awards Judging Chairman, Alistair Dunn, said: The RICS Awards are a unique opportunity for everyone working within the property and construction sectors to have their work highlighted on a local and international platform.

Last year we saw a record number of entries to the awards and, this year, we very much look forward to receiving submissions from an even wider group of exceptional projects.”

“There are many local schemes that have made an impact in communities and in business, have broadened our tourism offering, have enhanced our infrastructure, have revived residential areas, and have restored some of our most-loved buildings. I would strongly encourage the professionals behind them to take the opportunity to have their excellent work recognised.”

Entry to the awards, which are open to all practitioners within the property and construction sectors, is now open, with a deadline of 16 January 2015 for completion. Some of the Northern Ireland winners will also go forward to the RICS Awards Grand Final in London, where they will compete with other regional winners from across the UK and beyond.

Other winners from the 2014 Northern Ireland ceremony included The Bakery on the Ormeau Road in the Commercial category, Antrim Castle Gardens in the Tourism & Leisure category, Station Square in Portrush in the Regeneration category and Caffrey Hill, Belfast in the Residential category.

Further information about the awards is available at: www.rics.org/ awards or by calling the RICS NI office on 028 9032 2877.

£5.5million investment opens footbridge to cyclists A £5.5million investment in Belfast City Centre’s infrastructure will mean important new access for cyclists and the potential for future development of the Queen’s Quay area.

Announcing his plans to replace the Lagan Weir Footbridge in Belfast, Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, said the significant investment in the area would hopefully act as a catalyst for further and future development for the Queen’s Quay Development Site.

The Minister said, “The Lagan Weir Footbridge has been in place for over 20 years and unfortunately can only accommodate pedestrian footfall. The new bridge, which will be up to 8m wide, will accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians and will provide a viewing area for people to enjoy the fantastic views of Belfast Lough.”

The replacement of the footbridge is part of the enabling works for the Queen’s Quay Development Site and will commence shortly. It is expected that the work will be completed by Spring 2015.

The Minister continued: “The Queen’s Quay Masterplan sets out an exciting vision of the development potential of this area and the Footbridge will promote the area as somewhere to invest. The refurbished bridge will further link Belfast City Centre and the Titanic Quarter as well as creating an eye-catching landmark.”

Latest NI Construction Bulletin shows downward trends The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) recently published the latest edition of the Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin. The figures make for gloomy reading for the Northern Ireland construction industry with a downward trend displayed in all sectors.

This statistical bulletin provides users with the latest estimates of construction output carried out in Northern Ireland for Q2 2014.

It excludes work carried out by Northern Ireland Construction firms in other parts of the UK or elsewhere. Output is defined as the amount charged by construction firms to customers for value of work excluding VAT. The key findings of the bulletin: • The total volume of construction output in Northern Ireland in the second quarter of 2014 decreased by 3.7% compared to Q1 2014.

• Over the quarter, the volume of New Work fell slightly by 1.3% but Repair & Maintenance decreased sharply by 8.7%.

• There were small decreases in Housing (-1.7%) and Infrastructure (-1.1%) but the most notable change this quarter was the decrease in Other Work by 6.7%.

• When comparing Q2 2014 with Q2 2013 construction output has fallen by 6.0%.

• Overall the trend in Construction Output carried out in Northern Ireland is still downward. The level of output reported in Q2 2014 is approximately half of the peak reported in Q1 2007.

• In Q2 2014, overall construction output in GB remained at the same level as the previous quarter.

• In Q2 2014, construction output in Northern Ireland was just below three-quarters (72%) of the average output reported for 2010. In the same quarter, overall construction output in Great Britain was at 99% of the average output for 2010.

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Electrical Students visit Windsor Park

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NI owned Trench Holdings report £2.8m profit Northern Ireland-owned construction firm Trench Holdings has reported pre-tax profits of £2.8m.

That was an improvement on the profit of £1.5m the company posted in 2012. The company is headed by Ken Cheevers, who also owns McLaughlin and Harvey. Trench consists of a number of Scottish-based businesses with interests in the construction, building products and waste management sectors. One of its main firms, Barr Construction, built the basketball arena for the London Olympics.

For the year ended December 31, 2013, the company had a turnover of £174.2m, up from £164.3m a year earlier. It said sales were up at both its construction and quarries and surfacing businesses.

"The current marketplace remains challenging in the sectors where the group trades, however, the group continues to develop its businesses and maintain its capital investment programme," a statement said.

Charlemont social housing scheme Nick Oldfield (left), contracts manager for O'Hare & McGovern with some of the electrical students from Belfast Met who were given a tour of Windsor Park which is currently undergoing development by the Newry based Construction Company.

Electrical students have been given a grandstand view of the early stages of the installation of the new power and lighting arrangements at Windsor Park, Belfast.

Senior staff at O’Hare & McGovern (OHMG), the Northern Ireland construction firm which is carrying out the £35m redevelopment of Northern Ireland’s international soccer stadium took the students on a special tour of the site as part of the company’s promotion of its continual personal development policy.

The Belfast Metropolitan College students are on a pre-apprentice programme in Electrical Installation and they were able to see the start of work which will eventually end with a lighting and power scheme which meets the international standards demanded by UEFA, soccer’s ruling body.

Work on the stadium is due to be completed in October next year. It will have an 18,000 crowd capacity. The new pitch is already playable and work has started on a new south stand. As part of the visit the Belfast Met students had a look at one of the new transformers and inspected the switch room below the North Stand which will undergo a major upgrade.

Cathal O’Hare, contracts manager with OHMG said the visit was aimed at helping students understand the job prospects in the construction industry, and enable them to aim at reaching their full potential by witnessing the type of work they could be carrying out in future careers.

He added: “It is one of the many visits O’Hare and McGovern are organising through its community benefits campaign which we believe serves as a catalyst for social, economic and environmental change, providing a sustainable future for present and future generations.”

Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, has cut the first sod at a new £0.5million social housing scheme at Charlemont in Armagh.

The new development being built by OakleeTrinity Housing Association will provide four new high quality energy efficient homes for local people. The new scheme will be part funded by the Northern Ireland Executive through the Department for Social Development.

Pictured with Mervyn Storey MLA are Bill Reilly, Board Member, Ian Elliott, Chief Executive, Timothy Quin, Chairman of Oaklee Trinity Housing.

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Marcon Fit-Out helps toy giant to set up shop in Belfast Northern Ireland fit-out specialist Marcon Fit-Out has helped leading toy retailer Toys “R” Us to introduce a new popup style store in Belfast.

Marcon has fitted out a 6,000 sq ft unit for Toys “R” Us in the city’s CastleCourt shopping centre.

It is the toy retailer’s fourth store in Northern Ireland and is the latest in a series of city centre pop-up style stores which have been rolled out across the UK by Toys “R” Us. The fit-out project included complete strip-out of an existing unit and the incorporation of an adjacent store to create one large single unit.

Over a six-week period Marcon installed lighting, air conditioning,

Paul McMahon, Centre Director at CastleCourt, and Marcon Fit-Out Business Development Manager Alan Stewart at the new Toys “R” Us store in Belfast’s CastleCourt shopping centre.

flooring, cabling and toilets and also undertook tiling, formation of the store area and a manager’s office, minor joinery works and decoration.

Specific items for the new store were manufactured in Marcon’s specialist joinery workshop in Antrim where state-of-the-art machinery and expert craftsmanship combines to deliver bespoke joinery pieces.

Alan Stewart, Marcon’s Business Development Manager, said: “This project continues a long-standing relationship with CastleCourt and is the beginning of a relationship with the national toy retailer, which has been establishing itself in city centre locations across the UK with the popup style stores.”

Storey opens £4.5million community centre for West Belfast Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey has opened a £4.5million purpose-built community resource centre in West Belfast.

The Glen Community Complex in the Lenadoon /Suffolk area, received £620,000 funding from the Department for Social Development.

Owned by Apex Housing Association, it also received funding by the EU’s PEACE III Programme and Atlantic Philanthropies.

The complex will house much needed community support services which includes crèche facilities, an after school club, healthy living programmes, education and training, family support, counselling and youth services.

Speaking at the official opening Minister Storey congratulated Apex and all involved with the project.

He said: “This development is a major boost for local community groups and for local residents. This magnificent facility will allow essential child care, youth and educational

services to be safeguarded and to grow.”

The support services will be provided by Glen Community Parent Youth Group, Lenadoon Community Forum, Lenadoon Women’s Group and the Suffolk Lenadoon Interface Group. The building includes a large multi-functional hall which can be used for sports, drama, and concerts.

The building also includes a number of well- equipped meeting rooms.

Emerald Boxing Club has also taken space in a unit adjacent to the complex.

Acknowledging the contribution of the community groups involved in the development the Minister added: “The Northern Ireland Executive’s agenda for addressing disadvantage recognises the need to build connected, cohesive and engaged communities. This investment will go a long way to achieve that aim here in West Belfast and is a vote of confidence in this community.”

Martin Doherty, Chairman of Apex said: “We are delighted to have

Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey MLA pictured with Martin Doherty, Chairman APEX Housing and Lorraine McCourt, Director, SEUPB.

played our part in the delivery of this impressive building. This hugely important project will serve the Lenadoon and Suffolk communities well for many years to come providing shared space to support the delivery of community priorities.”

He congratulated all the partners and stakeholders involved in the project including the funders, the design team, the contractor and the service providers on their magnificent achievement.

Welcoming the new complex, Lorraine McCourt, Director with the Special EU Programmes Body

(SEUPB), responsible for the management of the EU’s PEACE III Programme, said: “This new EU funded facility will create a truly shared space for local people, on a cross-community basis. It will also create a long-term and sustainable platform for the many different peace and reconciliation activities taking place in the local area.

“I sincerely congratulate all of those involved in its development and look forward to hearing more about how it will enhance community service provision within the Lenadoon and Suffolk estates in the future.”

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More women needed in construction

By Mark Wade, Director at Hays in Northern Ireland

The local construction sector is still experiencing healthy rates of growth, despite seeing an easing in output and new orders in recent months. As we know a significant level of the projects are being undertaken outside of Northern Ireland.

A report from the Construction Skills Network said that the average construction output growth between 2014 and 2018 is projected to reach 2.3%, with the correlating Annual Recruitment Requirement for the industry in Northern Ireland doubling from previous forecasts to 1,280 per year between 2014 and 2018.

Earlier this year we released the Hays Global Skills Index 2014, a unique and in-depth review of the global labour market across

31 countries. We noted that skills shortages can be seen across the majority of sectors we recruit for, and as such, there is a pressing need for 'widespread structural reform' in the UK. It is at a time like this that the construction sector simply cannot afford to overlook key areas of the workforce and the growing opportunities must be made available to all.

Women currently represent only 11% of the construction workforce in the UK, with most of these jobs office based. Only 2% of women in construction actually work in manual jobs. However, the traditional view of the construction industry as predominantly manual labourbased is one-dimensional – there are manifold dynamic and varying career paths stemming from the industry.

Beyond operations, there are a range of opportunities covering the full lifecycle of the construction process – from architecture and design through to facilities management.

The need to increase the flow of women into the construction sector is not new. But the problem is now complicated by the fact that so many skilled professionals have been

lured with the promise of more consistent work to Britain and beyond.

Recruiting from a wider pool of people could help the industry to avoid the skills shortages faced in the past. Action must be taken now to encourage more women to consider careers in construction.

A more diverse workforce could bring benefits to the whole sector, and many women already hold successful careers in a variety of construction roles. However, in order to make this more common place, the industry must address two key issues.

Firstly, more must be done to appeal to female school leavers and show them the career options available within the sector. Hays is at the centre of tackling this problem. As the only accredited recruitment partner to the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and members of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), we are working with the University of Ulster to reassure undergraduates and those embarking on postgraduate studies that there is a broad, challenging and rewarding set of career

CONCRETE FUTURES NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

opportunities in Northern Ireland.

CITB NI is actively promoting the construction industry to young people and they have a team of Ambassadors who visit schools.

To further promote the industry to female career seekers, they are currently developing a booklet which will feature case studies of women already working in all areas of the industry.

Secondly, we would like to see continuing efforts made to address the attitudes of the sector in its willingness to embrace females as a willing and able part of the workforce. CITB NI runs a Women in Construction Network to help support women within the construction sector. Events are held so that women in the network can meet and share their own experiences, hear about new technologies, or attend site visits.

With better attraction, recruitment and retention strategies, the construction sector could address this issue and build a more diverse and better equipped workforce to ensure the long-term stability of the industry.

For further information visit www.hays.co.uk/northernireland

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management.

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

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Brett Martin plastic sheets plays a part in mindbending Architectural Illusion

T

aking residence on the East Piazza at Covent Garden in London is a new and unique artwork which sees a section of the building magically levitate – with one of the key structural elements of the illusion provided by Co. Antrim based Brett Martin Plastic Sheets.

Modelled on the original architecture of the 184 year old market building, the artwork ‘Take my lightning but don’t steal my thunder’, has been designed by London artist Alex Chinneck and built by a 100 strong team who have conjured up the illusion that a 40-foot-long building has broken from its stone base and then floated 10 feet into the air with bewildering weightlessness.

With this unusual engineering marvel designed around both weight and aesthetics, the building had to be as light as possible but still look like a stone and brick building. Built from a steel and timber frame, the walls were created using Brett Martin’s Marlon ST Longlife, a structurally strong, lightweight multiwall polycarbonate sheet. Polystyrene was then intricately carved using robotic hot-wire cutters, and glued to the polycarbonate sheet prior to the application of the plaster and granite sand finish to match the existing market building.

Following a pre-fit at the fabrication shop to ensure it all went together like a jigsaw puzzle, the artwork was then shipped by 10 arctic trucks and installed over four days at the Piazza.

Joint Integrity – Flexenergy welcomes new distributor solutions to the multi-utility, infrastructure and construction sectors. It has the markets most extensive range of pressure pipeline materials, complemented by a comprehensive range of below and above ground product ranges, including concrete and plastic drainage, ducting, street lighting, road repairs, metering systems…. and much more.

Following its successful MBO last year, TPS Ltd has been appointed as distributor for Flexenergy products and systems in both Northern and Southern Ireland.

Flexenergy is a leading player in the design, supply and installation of distribution pipework used in heating, as well as hot and chilled water systems across a wide variety of renewable/ sustainable energy technologies, including solar, biomass CHP and district and community heating.

TPS is Ireland’s leading independent distributor of engineering materials and

Barry Vize, Sales Director of TPS describes the unique relationship between the two companies: “As Ireland’s leading specialist in the sales and distribution of pressure pipeline products to the utilities and construction industry, it’s a natural progression for us to team up with Flexenergy and diversify into new markets such as schools, hospitals, district heating systems and the renewable energies sector.

Our joint integrity and their unique product portfolio will ensure a flexibility and worldclass quality of service and delivery for our clients, specifiers, installers and agents.”

Sandy Fairley, Flexenergy’s Sales Director agrees: “Ireland is a significant and successful market for our products with further significant growth predicted in the renewable energies sector. We have worked with Barry Vize for over 18 years and his experience and knowledge of the market place is second to none. We are confident in our combined abilities to serve the Irish market well.”

“TPS is fit for growth and we have absolute trust in the directors of Flexenergy having worked with them in the past. Together we will strategically grow the market in Ireland.

www.flexenergy.co.uk • www.total-pipeline.com

16| hilti

Active hole cleaning – all but a memory!

Potential effects of no hole cleaning Graph 1

With hole cleaning

Load (lb)

The good news for designers with concerns about the installation of chemical anchors is that Hilti, after many years of research and testing, has developed a solution, the HITHY 200 SAFEset system, which is designed to reduce potential errors during the installation of chemical anchors.

The Hilti HIT-HY 200 SAFEset system guarantees load capacities, without the need for hole preparation. This ETA-approved solution offers two installation methods, one using the Hilti HIT-Z anchor rods, the other using Hilti’s TE-CD and TE-YD Hollow drill bits: • No cleaning required: Hilti HIT-Z anchor rods come with a cone-shaped helix, which works as a torque-controlled bonded anchor.

This means that the performance of a HIT-Z rod, when used with the HIT-HY 200 injectable mortar, is unaffected by uncleaned holes, both in dry or water-saturated concrete (see Graph 2).

• Holes that clean themselves: Hilti TE-CD and TE-YD Hollow drill bits make subsequent hole cleaning completely unnecessary. Dust is removed while drilling is in progress using a universal vacuum cleaner. Then the HIT-HY 200 mortar is injected in the clean hole and a normal threaded rod or a steel reinforcement bar installed.

This method not only saves time compared with traditional wirebrush hole cleaning, but also means a virtually dust-free working environment.

The introduction of SAFEset means designers now have a reliable solution that eradicates concerns about hole preparation, gives the assurance that the load capacities will be achieved in accordance to the ETA approval documents, and improves productivity by eliminating the most tedious step of anchor and rebar installation.

“Specifying the Hilti SAFEset system gives designers the confidence and peace of mind that anchor fixing and rebar will perform onsite just as has been designed on the drawing,” says Fort.

No hole cleaning

Displacement (in) When threaded rods or rebars are set with conventional injectional adhesive, load capacity is drastically reduced if the hole is inadequately cleaned after drilling. The Hilti HIT-HY 200 SAFEset™ system eliminates the cleaning step while still providing excellent load values.

Hilti HIT-HY 200 injectable adhesive with SAFEset™ system Graph 2

Without hole cleaning using HIT-Z Anchor rods Load (lb)

T

he traditional way to install chemical anchors is to inject an epoxy resin into a prepared, dustfree hole and then install an anchor rod through, for example, an endplate.

Once the resin hardens, the fixing is complete. The process imparts no stress into the base material during installation, so is the ideal solution for multiple fixes that have to be located close together or near edges. Its only downside is that the quality of the bond relies heavily on the preparation of the hole in the base material – the hole must be completely cleaned of drill dust.

“Preparing a hole for a chemical anchor is the most critical step in the installation process,” explains Hilti anchor product manager UK Mark Fort. “After drilling the hole, the installer has to blow out loose particles of the base material using compressed air. The remaining, more compacted particles in the hole then have to be loosened using a wire brush, and the loosened particles removed again by blowing air into the hole.”

Depending on the type of resin used, this “blow-brush-blow” process for hole cleaning usually needs to be repeated twice; and for some resins, suppliers require repeating it up to four times. This effort-intensive process not only doubles the time it takes to install each anchor, but exposes the installer to dust particles.

Since this is the procedure used for the anchor’s load testing, Fort explains, if holes are not prepared properly, the load capacity of the fixing will be drastically reduced (see Graph 1). Concern that such anchors could fail at less than design load has led designers to take a conservative approach by either overspecifying the design loads or adding redundant fixings to account for the possible loss in capacity.

For extremely risk-averse sectors such as the nuclear industry, the installation procedure for chemical anchors is considered very critical.

With standard hole cleaning or self-cleaning with a Hilti Hollow drill bit

Displacement (in) The new SAFEset™ system featuring HIT-HY 200 allows a fastening point to take high loads, as though the hole were cleaned using traditional installation methods.

Swiss Facades goes back to school!

06| digest

A

nne Hurl and the team from Swiss Facades knowledge and expertise were called upon to assist the Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB) in creating a funky and playful façade for Hazelwood Integrated Primary school.

The panels selected for this project were Swisspearl® reinforced fibre panels, manufactured in Switzerland. Anne Hurl explained that the idea was to have random sizes of panels and mix the colours to give a dynamic façade, this meant various calculations were made to get maximum use of the panels and to reduce wastage, this resulting in 95

different sized panels. The joiners from Maurice Flynn & Sons had the task of ensuring the framework was installed correctly and worked according to the plans. The layout was quite complex, but their workmanship ensured a successful outcome.

A spokesman for Maurice Flynn & Sons commented, “Maurice Flynn & Sons Ltd (MFS) in their role as lead building contractor to the BELB were appointed to deliver this Department of Education funded scheme for Hazelwood Integrated College. Having delivered numerous similar schemes recently, MFS understand the priority for schools is pupil safety on-site, the brevity of the programme and the quality of

work left behind. The high standard outcome at Hazelwood depended not only upon the high specification materials including the cladding, but also the skilful workmanship which was key to the success of this exciting new teaching environment which will provide years of valuable support for the staff and pupils of the school.”

Anne Hurl of Swiss Facades commented that, “We really enjoyed working on this project. It was different in that no two panels were the same size, yet our software package was able to ensure the minimum of wastage and cutting, to assist with the overall operational efficiency onsite. It goes to prove that Swiss Facades can provide the solution to any cladding design problem.”

digest |07

Swiss Facades Ltd Mob NI: 0044 2551 056930 Mob ROI: 00353 67 3929559 Email: info@swissfacades.com Website: www.swissfacades.com

20| CEF/Specify Awards

Construction Excellence Award Winners 2014

“D

on’t kick the construction industry when it’s down” was the message from the CEF at the awards.

Speaking at the dinner, John Armstrong of the CEF said, “The Minister’s presence at tonight’s ceremony underlines the construction industry’s significant contribution to employment, apprenticeships and training opportunities in Northern Ireland.

As an industry we want to work in partnership with our political leaders to create more jobs and to further develop the skills of our people.”

“Construction output on the ground in Northern Ireland has fallen on average by 8% each year since 2007/08 with the loss of over 20,000 jobs. Due to construction’s unique multiplier effect the absence of a recovery in construction activity is holding back growth in the wider economy.

Just as hope was growing that 2014 might mark the end of the construction recession in Northern Ireland the industry has been hit with a freeze on a number of public sector maintenance contracts. Whilst CEF has been calling for the Northern Ireland Executive to take active steps to facilitate an increase in construction activity, the key message in the short term is don’t kick the industry when it is down.”

The overall award and Utilities Infrastructure Award was won

Karen Patterson was presenter for the evening

by Lagan Water for its Clay Lake Water Treatment Works.

The Social/Community Construction Award was won by Heron Brothers for the Cancer Fund for Children’s Daisy Lodge whilst Tracey Brothers won the Restoration Award for the Fit Out of the SS Nomadic and the restoration of Hamilton Dock. The Ravenhill Stadium redevelopment

by Gilbert-Ash emerged as the winner of the Commercial Construction Award.

McLaughlin and Harvey had a double success for their quality performance across projects, picking up the Environmental Sustainability Award and the Exporting Award.

Graham Construction was crowned winner of the Education Infrastructure Award for Lagan College, Felix O’Hare picked up the Transport Infrastructure Award for Portadown Railway Station and Farrans won the Health

Infrastructure Award for Antrim Emergency Department. Farrans’ project also went on to win the Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award in recognition of the successful team approach adopted by the client, consultants, contractors and supply chain.

The Social Housing Award was won

by T&A Kernoghan for its Parkside Development on the Limestone Road making it four wins in the last five years in this category for T&A Kernoghan.

The Greenfield Housing Award went to JFM Construction for Carndale Meadows and Hagan Homes picked up the Brownfield Housing Award for Old Church Square.

The Health and Safety Award went to Deane Public Works whilst the Employment and Learning Minister passed on his special congratulation to Portview Fit-Out for their success in winning the Training Award.

Entertainment for the evening Neil Delamere

John Armstrong, CEF, managing director

CEF/Specify Awards |21

Who was there...

James Greer, Siobhan Kissward, Gladys Greer and David Elliott, of Greer Publications.

CEF Managing Director John Armstrong and Elsie Armstrong.

Declan McCann, Ursula Ewing, Seamus Dallas and Wesley Lindsay, of Woodvale Construction.

Anthony Doyle, Kieran Robinson, Brian Davison, Darren McGill and Simon Campbell, of Portview.

Paul McLaughlin, John McLaughlin, Sean McLaughlin, Joe McLaughlin, James McLaughlin and Daniel McLaughlin, of JFM Construction.

Conor Quinn, Peter Quinn, Gerry Gray and Damien Gill, of Felix O’Hare & Co.

Tim Martin, Lisa Millar and Geoff Martin, of H&J Martin

Justin Keane, Capita, and Darrell McGuckian, Farran’s.

Noleen King and Sarah Hagan, of Hagan Homes.

Andrew Savigar and Becky Whitehouse, of JLT.

Damian Heron, Heron Bros.; Gillian Creevey, Cancer Fund for Children; Ken Brundle, Bombardier; and Ken Whan, Heron Bros.

George Deane, Richard Manson, Adrian Dickson, Keith Nixon, and Manus O’Kane, of Deane Public Works.

Jim and Sam Addy, JLT, and Joanna and Mark Arndel, with CEF.

Marrtin O’Kane, Heron Bros; Ronan Corrigan, DSD; and Gerry McAlinden DSD.

Derek Martin of H&J Martin with Gina Lyttle and John Robb of INI.

22| CEF/Specify Awards

Eddie O’Neill, QMAC; CEF President Rhona Quinn; Elsie Armstrong and CEF Managing Director John Armstrong.

Joe Donaldson of Environmental Fabrications and Eugene McQuillan of McQuillan Contracts.

Tommy Stevenson, WDR & RT Taggart; Racheal Smyth, Adam Holland and Amelia Gardner, McL&H; and James Smith, WH Alexander.

Rhonda Robinson, Brian McKervey, Theresa Kearney and Terry Ahern, of NIEA.

Bill Gowdy, NI Water; Stewart Heaney, CPD; Katherin Fox, Ciarán Fox, CEF; and Brian Malone, CPD.

Judges Jenny Russell and Ciaran Mackel.

Emma Gilmore, TAL, and Paul Irwin, JP Corry.

Eddie O’Neill, QMAC; John McGerty, GA; Alastair Lamb, McL&H; Richard Robinson, McL&H.

Josh and Helen Gillespie, with David Jameson Roofing.

Michael Whiteley, MW Architects; Ronan Kelly and Aidan McArdle, Kelly Bros.

Nicola Branagh and Terry Waugh, of Action Renewables.

Shane Graham, Gillespie & Cummings; and Kieran McMullan, Edmond Shipway.

Sean Moore, GA; Steven Ferguson, EC Harris; David Boyd, Ulster Rugby; and Brian Milne, GA.

Siobhan Kissward, manager and Pat Burns, editor Specify Magazine

David Henry, Heron Bros; Karen Blair and Patrick Fleming, Cleaver Fulton Rankin.

CEF/Specify Awards |23

And the winners are...

Overall Winner

Lagan Water Clay lake Water Treatment Works

General Construction Commercial Construction Award

Gilbert-Ash

Ravenhill Re-Development

Restoration Award

Tracey Brothers

Fit Out of the SS Nomadic & Restoration of Hamilton Dock

Social/Community Construction Award

Heron Bros

Cancer Fund for Children Daisy Lodge

Brownfield Housing Award

Hagan Homes

Old Church Square

Greenfield Housing Award

JFM Construction

Carndale Meadows

Social Housing Award

T&A Kernoghan

Parkside, Limestone Road

Education Infrastructure Award

Graham Construction

Lagan College

Health Infrastructure Award

Farrans Construction

Antrim Emergency Department

Transport Infrastructure Award

Felix O’Hare & Co

Portadown Railway Station

Utilities Infrastructure

Lagan Water

Clay Lake Water Treatment Works

Housing awards

INFRASTRUCTURE awards

quality performance awards Environmental Sustainability Award

McLaughlin & Harvey

Exporting Award

McLaughlin & Harvey

Health & Safety Award

Deane Public Works

Training Award

Portview Fit-Out

Achieving excellence in Partnering award Farrans Construction for Antrim Emergency Department

Overall Winner

Lagan Construction - Clay Lake Water Treatment Works (Utilities Infrastructure Award)

T

he judging panel were impressed by the collective effort of all parties to the contract to overcome the considerable technical challenges encountered on this project. The works required the water supply to Keady and surrounding districts to remain uninterrupted while a new 6 Ml/Day treatment facility was built and commissioned within the existing treatment works site. The contractor’s early engagement in the design process had a positive influence that accommodated the redeployment of existing plant, streamlined the construction phase and resulted in a superior facility.

A high standard of finish was evident throughout the site where reuse of existing equipment and structures contributed significantly to improved sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint.

The satisfaction of the client, Northern Ireland Water, with the standard of finish and their full contribution in presentation of the project underlined the excellent working relationships between all involved.

Raymond Nathan JLT presents the award to Lagan Water

24| CEF/Specify Awards

CEF/Specify Awards |25

CEF Construction Excellence Award Overall Winner Winner of the Utilities Infrastructure Award Lagan Water for Clay Lake Water Treatment Works

Lagan Water makes a Splash!

T

he winners of the Construction Excellence Awards 2014 were Lagan Water for the Clay Lake Water Treatment Works in Keady, County Armagh.

The water infrastructure project, which also won the Utilities Infrastructure Award, emerged as the ultimate winner for 2014 against stiff competition from the other 14 category winners including the Redevelopment of Ravenhill Stadium by Gilbert-Ash and the new Antrim Area Hospital Emergency Department by Farrans Construction.

Congratulating the overall winners John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) said, “We turn on our taps and out comes high quality clean drinking water – we take that for granted, but of course it is millions of pounds of investment in infrastructure that makes that possible. The Clay Lake Water Treatment Works is the sort of project that is often invisible to the public and I think it is a testament to the outstanding work of Lagan Water that this vitally important part of our local construction industry has been brought into the spotlight.”

Lagan Construction Group, and Lagan Water were contracted to provide a Water Treatment Works (WTW) for Northern Ireland Water at Clay Lake, Keady, Co. Armagh.

The new works for Clay Lake Water Treatment Works included the Design, Build and Commissioning of a 6 ML/d (Mega Litres /day) Water Treatment Plant but Lagan Water also had to ensure that the Works could

provide a minimum of 4 ML/d during construction, without interruption to supply and maintain the quality to the consumer.

Lagan Water were initially to provide a new flow filter unit and combined with an existing unit from another works but during post tender discussions Lagan Water offered a DAF(Dissolved Air Floatation)/ RGF (Rapid gravity Filters) alternative which reused two of the clients existing GAC units and gave them a technically superior solution for a small increase in cost. This gave NIW continuity of flow during the clarifying process (i.e. removing the solids from the raw water) and the ability to backwash (clean) the RGFs while maintaining throughput to supply Client engagement and satisfaction was excellent as an integrated team Lagan Water maintained a superior water quality throughout the construction period and the client was delighted with the new plant, its performance and the quality of water it provides for South Armagh.

The plant was constructed on the site of the existing sand filters and uses the existing concrete tanks as the foundation and basement of the new works. Lagan Water also re-used the existing chemical dosing plant, lime plant and clear water tank. They were also able to reuse ortho-phosphate equipment and two of the existing GAC tanks. The latter introduced a lot of process risk to the construction as the new plant had to be putting water into supply to allow the existing GAC’s to be decommissioned, inspected, refurbished and then installed and commissioned through the roof of the new treatment building without interrupting the water supply. At this stage any interruption would have meant no water for Keady.

Good planning and experienced staff

ensured this went without any issues.

Lagan Water remained on budget throughout the project with very few CEs on the scheme. Their management of the supply chain is testament to their reputation within the industry and the company’s use of local suppliers wherever possible.

Health and Safety Lagan Water maintained a zero AFR throughout the project, while NIW‘s drive to reduce carbon footprint by reusing as much of its existing

assets as possible and Lagan Waters’ use of local supply chain as much as possible helped increase the sustainability of the project. Material taken off site was minimal. Activated Carbon can also be regenerated to further the life of the product.

There were no complaints from the public and the local cafe commented on how the water quality has improved, testament to the quality of the works.

26| CEF/Specify Awards

Neil McKenzie, Lagan Water and Rhona Quinn CEF President

(Commercial Construction Award)

Gilbert-Ash - Ravenhill Re-Development

A

complex site entrance, restricted site boundary, undisputable deadline and above all, the expectation of a country, were the difficulties that faced the winners of the Commercial Construction Award during the construction period.

The redevelopment of Ravenhill, the home of Ulster rugby, set Gilbert Ash many challenges during construction. The facilities provide Ulster Rugby with unrivalled accommodation across Europe and sets Ravenhill apart as a worldwide exemplar for this type of construction project.

The standard of construction, while robust to deal with the density of foot traffic that passes through the stadium on each match day, is outstanding. The project was delivered on time and under budget and Gilbert Ash worked with local schools and the apprenticeship scheme to use the build to educate the workforce of the future.

The tightness of the site at Ravenhill meant that different complex solutions to facilitate the erection of the steelwork for each stand had to be developed - and all this with a stadium in continued use and a pitch that couldn’t be touched. This is truly a piece of exemplary construction in, and for, Northern Ireland.

Rhona Quinn CEF president with David Sterling, Permanent Secretary Department of Finance & Personnel presenting the award to Ciaran Begley, Gilbert Ash

CEF/Specify Awards |27

(Restoration Award)

Tracey Brothers - Fit Out of the SS Nomadic & Restoration of Hamilton Dock

T

racey Brothers was recognised for a Titanic project of unusual proportions. The fit-out of SS Nomadic and the restoration of Hamilton Dock by Tracey Brothers have not only restored Titanic’s little sister to its former glory but have also created a major tourist attraction.

The 100-year-old vessel – which is the last surviving White Star vessel in the world - once ferried first and second class passengers from Cherbourg to the RMS Titanic, the achievement and tragedy of which has given her name to a new city quarter.

The story is however much more complex, one which has seen the SS Nomadic saved from the scrap yard three times, called to action in two world wars, served as a tender vessel, a salvage ship, a floating restaurant in Paris and somehow she has made it back to Belfast to the very dock where she was constructed.

She is unique in that she is the last surviving ship constructed for the White Star Line and there is nowhere better to tell her story than within this authentic historic maritime artefact itself The project included the restoration of SS Nomadic and its transformation into a tourist attraction as well as the restoration of Hamilton Graving Dock – the dry dock where the Nomadic is situated – and the nearby Pump House ~ each offered separate challenges but none more so than the White Star Line tender.

SS Nomadic is listed on the core collection of National Historic Ships Register, meaning it has a status equivalent to that of a Grade A listed building. Just like a listed building, the focus is on retaining as much of the original as possible but unlike buildings we were dealing with different materials and construction techniques so extensive research was necessary and it was a steep learning curve The Hamilton Dock is also

a scheduled monument, so a photographic record of the surfacing was compiled followed by drawings, allowing the intricate surfacing to be lifted and relaid in its original position - This was a strict requirement of Northern Ireland Environmental Agency scheduled monuments and close co-operation was necessary The aim was to develop a “time capsule” of Belfast in 1911, through the integration of the Titanic’s tender ship, the SS Nomadic and Hamilton graving dock (including its original pumphouse). Original items, including doors & timber panelling, which had been salvaged, were reintroduced, for sections which needed replaced, original detailing was matched to allow the end user to experience the authentic heritage and atmosphere of this historic ship with intriguing stories of her passengers and her dramatic career.

Tracey Brothers client, SS Nomadic Charitable Trust was affiliated to the Nomadic Preservation Society. Traceys facilitated multiple client meetings – often on board. When the project was completed, David Scott-Beddard, the chairman of the Nomadic Preservation Society praised Tracey Brothers on their superior craftsmanship and attention to the authentic details of the finished work.

However, the team from Tracey Brothers took the same approach to SS Nomadic as they did for any historical restoration project and utilised wide-ranging experience gained on projects such as the tudoresque Gothic-style listed building of Riddel Hall for Queen’s University, Crumlin Road Gaol and McGarel Town Hall in Larne.

As a final feather in the company’s cap, Tracey Brothers was also responsible for the design and installation of the interpretive fitout and installations, which told the story of the SS nomadic in an interactive manner, adding another unusual aspect to the contract.

The CEF Awards Judges commented, “The exceptional

Rhona Quinn CEF president with Patsy McGlone, Chair Assembly Construction Group, presents the award to Seamus Mulligan, Tracey Brothers

quality of the shortlist for the restoration award highlights the wealth of specialist skill available in Northern Ireland. The high level of execution of the entrants in this category, along with the difficulties faced throughout construction made the judging a difficult and lengthy process but the judges are content that they have chosen a winner, which presents Northern Ireland on a global stage.

“The winner of the Restoration Award has been described as a project with all the complexities of working with a Grade 1 listed building, except one that is floating on water. While not a building ‘per se’, the restoration of the SS Nomadic, along with the pump house and dry dock, is no less

a construction project, in fact, Tracey Bros had to re-evaluate each process of construction and restoration during this build. On top of the complexity of the build, the interface between four landowners/ leaseholders made the geographics of the scheme particularly difficult.

“The ship is a demonstration of superior hand cut specialist joinery skills, which have been used throughout to restore or remake key parts of the ship’s interior making it virtually impossible to tell old from new. Nothing on the ship is square and thus every single piece of timber had to be individually measured and cut.

A labour of love – absolutely, an exemplar for the industry – without a doubt.”

28| CEF/Specify Awards

With more than 60 years’ experience of building, construction and fit-out works, Tracey Brothers Ltd are currently recognised as one of the leading construction companies in the Northern Ireland, with a large construction sector portfolio range. We are prepared to adopt innovative practices in order to deliver high levels of Client satisfaction. The company specialises in management of highly complex, technically challenging projects and design and build projects, providing fully serviced buildings and landscaped sites to specification. Tracey Brothers’ success has been built on a reputation for quality, right through from design to completion.

Drumlyon House, Drumlyon, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh BT74 5TB Tel: 028 6632 3471

(Social/Community Construction Award)

Heron Brothers – Cancer Fund for Children Daisy Lodge

N L-R, Mark Dornan (David Gould Associates), Kevin Sage (Heron Bros. Ltd.), Gillian Creevy (Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children), Michael McDowell (McDowell Graham Architects), Kevin Hughes (Heron Bros. Ltd.) and James McMullan (Heron Bros. Ltd.).

estled in the foothills of the Mourne Mountains, overlooking Tollymore Forest Park, lies a building that celebrates the heart of Northern Ireland, and the construction of Daisy Lodge in Newcastle required the heart and soul of the Construction Team.

Working for a client who did not demand, but COMMAND the best for their end users, Heron Bros rose to surpass the expectations of even the client.

Daisy Lodge provides respite accommodation for children with cancer together with their families. The facility provides first class accommodation, dining and entertainment for these families in the tranquillity of the Mournes, all within a truly exceptional building.

Heron Bros went above and beyond what was expected of them to ensure that the facilities were appropriate for their client and to support their client as they invited potential supporters and sponsors to view the project throughout construction.

The high standard of finish in Daisy Lodge results in a building that is peoplecentred in which those who are using the facilities feel completely at home (albeit a truly exceptional home!)

CEF/Specify Awards |29

(Brownfield Housing Award)

Hagan Homes - Old Church Square, Dundonald

O

ld Church Square Development comprises 35 dwelling units in an established residential area on a sloping site with existing mature vegetation.

The scheme maintains the building line and built form of adjacent plots and uses the existing vegetation; augmented with further planting, open spaces, along with quality hard and soft landscaping including sustainable drain arrangements, to supply a range of housing types.

Onsite parking for the majority of the development is subtly arranged so as not to be visible from passing traffic, while security is evident both formally for residents through discreetly designed access to properties and parking along with inter-visibility within the site allowing for informal surveillance across the entire scheme.

The scheme demonstrates a relatively high degree of density without town cramming and has been completed to a high standard of finish, both internally and externally, creating a high level of user and resident satisfaction.

Fiona McCandless, Chief Planner for Planning, presents the award to Jamesy Hagan, Hagan Homes

(Greenfield Housing Award)

JFM Construction - Carndale Meadows, Ballymena

C

Siobhan Kissward, Specify magazine, presents the award to Daniel McLaughlin of JFM Construction

arndale Meadows is a Greenfield development comprising 54 dwellings of semi-detached and terraced houses, along with a small number of apartment units within walking distance of Ballymena town centre and both the bus and rail networks.

The development displays the application of the standards laid down in the Quality Initiative in the layout and design of the scheme along with the quality of both the internal and external finishes of the built form. As an extension to an existing development, Carndale Meadows creates a distinctive overall sense of place finished to a high standard turnkey specification.

30| CEF/Specify Awards

(Social Housing Award)

T&A Kernoghan - Limestone Road, Belfast

T Oliver McAllister, Associate Partner with PWC, presents the award to Gary Bradley of T&A Kernoghan

he Limestone Road development comprises 36 homes within an area previously blighted with dereliction and on-going complex [inter]community relationships, sitting with an interface area in north Belfast.

The scheme recreates the historic street pattern and has been devised and crafted in close collaboration with the wider community, end users and statutory undertakers. Taking cognisance of the existing streetscape and range of Victorian and Edwardian villas and townhouses, the scheme borrows details of the best of the remaining historic built form and incorporates individual and modern elements to create a unique, responsive, hospitable, vibrant and diverse high end environment.

The development has demonstrated the “qualities� of urban stewardship and design set out in the Department of the Environment’s Living Places document through the design, build, management and attention to quality both internally and externally in all elements of the scheme. The quality of the design and finish displays commitment and investment in the area and has resulted in a high level of user satisfaction and pride in the area.

(Education Infrastructure Award)

Graham Construction - Lagan College

T

he new building in a mature landscape setting owned by the National Trust gives a confident, contemporary sense of entrance to what is a complex cluster of the large new building and the historic building and previous additions.

The contractor has delivered a significant new build and refurbishment school for the 1,200 pupil school which continued on-site during the 29 month contract period.

The staff and pupils expressed an obvious enjoyment at the new school but also at the engagement process which involved pupils in aspects of the detailed design choices and which have continued since building completion and handover.

The contractor is to be commended that he has become involved in open-days and work placements and evidenced the value of construction sector jobs and career paths.

The contractor availed of the site conditions to extend the possible future use of internal and external spaces that the school could develop. The contractor and design team made good use of the site levels and of the adjacent older buildings to create a series of courtyards and terraces that connect the various school departments and bring a varied quality of light to enrich the teaching experience.

Philip Irwin, Director of Infrastructure Department of Education, presents the award to Henry Doyle, Graham Construction

CEF/Specify Awards |31

(Health Infrastructure Award)

Farrans Construction Antrim Hospital Emergency Department

T

Richard Pengelly, Permanent Secretary Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety, presents the award to Darrell McGuckian of Farrans Construction

Darrell McGuckian Farrans Construction, Rhona Quinn, CEF President, Stewart Heaney, Director Central Procurement Directorate, Sharon Sherrard, Northern Health & Social Care Trust and Declan Doherty, Farrans Construction

Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award

he building, on approach from the car park area, appears modest and well considered in its setting and gives a low profile as it touches the ground. It is, however, a complex addition to the Area Hospital and was constructed in a very tight 74 week programme with several sectional completions and without interruption to the surgical theatre or clinical work.

The contractor who had previous experience of working in live hospital environments made careful selection of site operatives and gave excellent attention to the management of the construction challenges that included a basement construction and completion of the wards before final completion and hand-over. Quality standards were established by the use of full-scale mock-ups for specialist rooms and indeed for external areas and these were embedded in a participative engagement process with hospital management and staff that were exemplary.

Weekly briefing sessions, the policy of ‘zero snags’ and ‘zero defects’ at handover and a high-standard of build quality and an ‘after-care’ policy of availability of site operatives for a period of four months after handover and the quality of the architecture and design combined to provide an excellent building. The management, staff and users have expressed their complete satisfaction at the process, the engagements and the final building which has seen improved levels of patient recovery.

32| CEF/Specify Awards

(Transport Infrastructure Award)

Felix O’Hare & Co Ltd Portadown Railway Station

O

n a very constrained site, the refurbishment and improvements made to Portadown Railway Station have a seamless integration with the old structure. With the absolute minimum of disruption, the contractor has delivered a complex project requiring the contribution of a variety of resources in a timely and efficient manner with accuracy.

The down-time on the track was minimised during the installation of the pedestrian overPat Doherty, Director of Engineering, Transport NI presents the award to bridge by the deployment of off-site modular construction. Good traffic management on Mark Campbell of Felix O’Hare & Co.Ltd Northway allowed the bridge to be craned into position without disruption to services.

Through the deployment of BIM, potential clashes of services were designed out and high customer satisfaction levels were maintained. An acute awareness of the needs of the end user is evident in the high standards of finish and in the use of materials throughout the station.

(Quality Performance Award)

Environmental Sustainability: McLaughlin & Harvey

E

Terry Ahearn, Chief Executive NIEA, presents the award to Richard Robinson of McLaughlin & Harvey

xcellent links between business and academia through support for research projects at Queens University and employment of the researchers at McLaughlin & Harvey.

Research feeds directly into the work of the company and the results are shared with others across the industry. Admirable consideration of environment/biodiversity as evidenced by work in sensitive areas, pollution management and innovation. Targets and awards for environmental activity together with community engagement completed the comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability.

CEF/Specify Awards |33

(Exporting Award)

McLaughlin & Harvey

T

argeting of ports and harbours demonstrated a well thought through strategy.

Successful work on the Victoria terminal provided the evidence base and opportunity to break into the GB market. This led to significant growth in exports with 90% of turnover now in GB – grown from £1m to £70m in 5 years and recruitment up from 20 to 130 staff. In addition to the work in GB on ports and harbours McLaughlin and Harvey are also successfully exporting innovation in marine and offshore renewables around the world.

Gina Lyttle, Client Manager, Invest NI, presents the award to Adam Holland of McLaughlin & Harvey

(Health & Safety Award)

Deane Public Works in a Good State of Health

T Rhona Quinn presents the award to George Deane of Deane Public Works

he commitment to health and safety by Deane Public Works was recognised at the Construction Excellence Awards with the company winning the Health & Safety Award.

It is an excellent achievement for the company and evidence that Deane Public Works are firmly committed to Managing Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare throughout all business operations and willing to embrace change and introduce new initiatives within the construction industry to continually improve performance.

Safe-T-Cert health and safety accreditation is firmly integrated into all operations of the business, with visible and active leadership from a dedicated Health and Safety Manager and Senior Management team, who collectively encourage and maintain an excellent safety record and management systems The award comes off the back of the company being shortlisted for the same category in 2013 and with the added significance of having a judging panel that included Keith Morrison, Chief Executive, HSENI and Richard McIvor, Chair of the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health Northern Ireland (IOSH).

Deane Public Works Team

(Training Award)

Portview Fit - Out

P

ortview provided a very comprehensive explanation of their approach to the management of training & opportunities for the continuing development for all employees within their organisation.

Their Managing Director candidly explained their genuine approach to the encouragement and development of skills and training within the organisation for employees appointed at all levels.

This was supported by involving a selection of personnel to participate in the interview and provide a first-hand ‘tangible’ explanation of same.

The approach taken was exceptional, went beyond a normal training & development programme – award is well deserved and a credit to Portview Fit Out Ltd.

Carole Johnston, DEL, presents the award to Kerry Breen of Portview Fit-Out

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More socials from the night...

CEF/Specify Awards |35

36| JFM Construction

More top awards for

JFM Construction T

here has been another Pride in the Job Award for JFM Construction’s popular Carndale Meadows in Ballymena.

Neil Scullin from renowned Co. Antrim building company JFM Construction has just been

commended yet again for his outstanding work on the Carndale Meadows development.

The well constructed development has firmly established itself as one of the most appealing places to live and set down roots in Ballymena.

Not only is this the second year in a row the development has been

selected for this award, recently JFM Construction won the highly prestigious CEF Construction Excellence Award in the Greenfield Housing category for this development.

Originally established in 1968, JFM Construction the locally-based and family owned business which

has been building reputable and reliable homes for nearly 50 years, is a NHBC registered building company with a first-class rating and a sterling reputation that precedes them. The firm has completed a number of successful residential, commercial and nursing home projects throughout the Ballymena, Randalstown and Mid

JFM Construction |37

administration side of things ran smoothly. The result is a development which offers very attractive homes and excellent turnkey packages. Every detail has been taken care of and they are ready to move into.”

Popularity Continues To Grow Ulster areas and previously won the prestigious CEF Construction Excellence Award for the Rose Martha Care Home in Ballymena. This year JFM Construction had also been selected finalists in the Brownfield and Greenfield categories.

In 2012 JFM Construction were the recipients of the CEF Construction

Excellence Award in the Health Infrastructure category for their work on the Rose Martha Care Home.

Neil Scullin, the award-winning foreman on Carndale Meadows, said: “It was a great team effort from everyone involved, from the men on the site to people in the office who ensured that the whole

The latest phase in the development has proved to be extremely popular with 40 homes already sold and handed over. The current release hosts an assortment of townhouses, semi-detached and apartments and these are all spacious, attractive and energy efficient – a must have feature in any modern day home. Mainly

finished in an attractive brick, these houses cost as little as £134,950 and offer excellent space and supreme accommodation. These are affordable new homes with an excellent turnkey finish, incorporating high energy efficiency, low energy cost homes in a good central location close to town centre.

Joe McLaughlin of JFM Construction said: “Carndale Meadows has proved to be a big hit with purchasers and local people.

We continue to receive compliments about the good general design and appearance of the development along

38| JFM Construction with the appreciation of the high standards of quality and workmanship.

This now is backed up once again by the Site Manager Neil Scullin being awarded another Pride in the Job award by the NHBC and the recent CEF Construction Excellence Award for the Greenfield Housing category.”

Charlie Lynn of L&B, Ballymena, the selling agent for the development, said: “Carndale Meadows was released at the beginning of 2012, and has within a short space of time become one of the most successful developments within the area.”

For more information on the Carndale Meadows development in Ballymena, contact the selling agent L&B, Ballymena on: (028) 2563 7733.

Alternatively contact JFM Construction by phoning: (028) 7965 0693 or by email; info@jfmconstruction.com

J E McKernan & Son Specialists in uPVC Building Products

Architectural & Surveying Services, pleased to be involved in the Carndale Meadows Project.

Wishing JFM Construction continued success

Pleased to be involved in the supply of Fascia & Soffits to Carndale Meadows.

Congratulations to JFM Construction on winning the Greenfield Housing Award at the CEF/Specify Construction Excellence Awards.

Wishing them continued success • FASCIA & SOFFITS • HYGIENIC WALL CLADDING • WINDOW TRIMS • RAINWATER SYSTEMS Head Office: Unit 2 Musgrave Park Industrial Estate, 26 Stockmans Way, Belfast, BT9 7ET • TEL: 02890381990 www.wilplas.com • E-mail Sales@wilplas.com

Branches at: Ballymena 028 25645380

Cookstown 028 86764422

Newry 028 30252499

J E McKernan & Son, Architectural & Surveying Services 25 Market Rd, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6EL Tel: 028 2565 3203 • E:mail jemckernan@hotmail.com

Acheson & Glover |39

Manor Stone transforms City of Culture streetscape

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City of Culture has to look its best and thanks to A&G (Acheson & Glover) Derry~Londonderry’s streetscape has been transformed with bespoke hard landscaping products.

In an ongoing project that began in 2012, A&G has replaced existing footpaths in Derry city centre with a durable product that complements the old Georgian buildings in this conservation area, as well as an area around the city’s St Columb’s Cathedral.

Architects and government departments working on the project agreed that A&G’s Manor Stone in the colour ‘Blackwater’ was the product best suited to the project.

Manor Stone’s aesthetics proved persuasive as it is manufactured from premium aggregates with a unique undulating surface and subtle waved edging giving the appearance of natural stone flags. It is further enhanced with granite chippings, giving it a sophisticated seductive shimmer.

Manufactured to a depth of 50mm, Manor Stone is suited for pedestrian use only. However, on this project it became apparent that a depth in excess of 50mm was required to accommodate traffic mounting the pathways in the city.

To overcome this, A&G purchased a new deeper mould to make a bespoke flag stone with a depth of 80mm that would withstand the weight of a vehicular access.

A&G’s flexible approach was also required for the paving around St Columb’s Cathedral as a new bespoke colour was needed to match the existing stonework in the conservation area.

David Speirs, Customer Account Manager, A&G, said: “Our work in Derry city centre shows that we can provide high quality products that are suitable for large scale town redevelopment schemes.

“It also shows how innovative and flexible A&G can be mid-project as we were able to adjust depths of the Manor Stone flags and create bespoke colours to achieve the client’s aims.”

For more information visit www.acheson-glover.com or contact A&G on 028 8952 1275

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

CONSULTATION ON A NEW HOUSE PRICE INDEX The Office for National Statistics (ONS), Land Registry, Registers of Scotland and Land & Property Services Northern Ireland are seeking views regarding the development of a new, single definitive house price index and how the proposed methodology would meet the industry’s requirements for official house price data.

Further information and a link to the consultation questionnaire are on the ONS website www.ons.gov.uk. Any enquiries should be sent by email to LPS.StatisticsBranch@dfpni.gov.uk.

If members wish to submit any comments they should be sent by email to Nigel Lucas at nlucas@cefni.co.uk by no later than 1 December 2014.

The consultation closes on 12 December 2014.

CHANGE TO ABNORMALLY LOW TENDER POLICY The Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) has confirmed that the Government’s policy on Abnormally Low Tenders will be changing. This follows two challenges to the Abnormally Low Tender mechanism that was applied to contracts below the EU threshold as well as concerns raised by a number of other clients.

Where an abnormally low tender was identified in a belowthreshold competition the tenderer was excluded without any opportunity to justify the low tender price. However in an above-threshold competition where an abnormally low tender was identified, the tenderer would be given an opportunity to justify the low tender price and to stand over it.

CPD has confirmed that the above-threshold approach will now be adopted for belowthreshold competitions.

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT – FEAR AS GOVERNMENT CUTS BACK ON MAINTENANCE SPEND

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he government published official statistics in October 2014 on construction activity in Northern Ireland which show that construction output continued to decline in the second quarter of 2014 and has reached a new low.

The Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin reveals that local construction output in the second quarter was almost four per cent down on the previous quarter and six per cent lower than the same quarter in 2013.

Construction output in Northern Ireland is now at almost half of its peak in 2007.

John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) said: “After five years of the worst construction downturn in generations the long awaited recovery has simply not materialised in terms of construction work on the ground in Northern Ireland.

Without the remarkable success of our local companies in winning work in Britain, the Northern Irish construction industry would still be stuck in the doldrums. We estimate that the top 20 local construction companies turnover approximately £1.5bn of which £1bn is now generated outside Northern Ireland.”

“However, the lack of construction activity on home soil has major economic and social consequences. With every £1 invested in construction generating £2.84 in the wider economy the sector stands out for its multiplier effect, job creation and local supply chain. Investment in construction activity in Northern Ireland is now £1.5bn per annum lower than in 2007.”

“The Northern Irish economy needs a strong construction sector. It is clear that the sector is in need of focussed attention from the Northern Ireland Executive at this time, not only with regard to budget allocations but also policy initiatives to facilitate private sector construction spending. The pressures on the resource budget have already led to substantial job losses in construction companies engaged to deliver public sector maintenance contracts. There is serious concern that worse is to come.”

“To many in the industry the freeze on essential maintenance of our roads feels like a kick whilst we are down. The consequences of this freeze need to be

understood. If gullies are not emptied following the leaf fall, there will be flooding: if pot holes are not filled, road users will be put at risk and claims for damage to cars will increase; if street lights are out, personal safety could be compromised. These are not acceptable risks.”

“The allocation of resource funding through the October Monitoring round has not been good for construction. We are concerned that the allocation of capital funding will follow the same form as previous years and simply move existing funding from one area of construction to another thus delivering no real boost to the sector.”

“We are conscious that the draft budget for 2015/16 must be agreed by the end of October and we are calling on the Executive to take into account the need to increase construction activity on the ground in Northern Ireland as part of a wider package of measures to boost the economy. Whilst for other sectors the recovery is in full flight, the only things in full flight for construction are the planes loaded with Northern Irish construction workers travelling to Britain week in, week out.”

SCHOOLS CAPITAL works and schools enhancement programme updates

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he Department for Education (DENI) has provided the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) with the latest updates on the schools major capital works programmes for the schemes announced in 2012, and those moved forward into planning in 2013 and 2014. In addition DENI has also provided the latest update for the list of minor capital schemes to be procured through the Schools Enhancement Programme (SEP).

CEF met with DENI on 19 September 2014 to discuss these programmes and the capital works budget. DENI advised CEF that for the next three years the minor capital works schemes with values up to £4.3m will take priority through the SEP. These schemes have a total worth of around £60m for 2014/15.

From 2016/17 onwards, it is expected that the budget will focus on the major capital works schemes.

For details of the major capital works update and SEP schemes visit the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk.

CEF TEAMS UP WITH TOWERGATE DAWSON WHYTE to offer MEMBERS-ONLY INSURANCE PACKAGE

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he Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has launched a new partnership agreement with leading insurance broker, Towergate Dawson Whyte, to provide CEF members with a dedicated insurance package which offers great rates and service.

John Armstrong, CEF Managing Director, said: “I am delighted to be announcing the new and exciting relationship between CEF and Towergate Dawson Whyte that will deliver direct benefits to all CEF members. Through the members-only insurance package CEF full and associate members can make savings on insurance premiums and bonds. The relationship is a key element in our strand of work which seeks to reduce costs for our members.”

Hugh McKinty, Area Trading Director for Northern Ireland for Towergate Dawson Whyte said: “Towergate Dawson Whyte is ready to do business with CEF members, to deliver a great service and most importantly, to deliver savings. As a company we combine global pricing strength with local knowledge and service. It is this combination which enables us to be so competitive. We are honoured to be CEF’s insurance partner and look forward to meeting with the membership over the coming weeks and months.”

Speaking about the next steps in developing the partnership, Mr Armstrong said: “We encourage all of our members to get in touch with Hugh, David and the team at Towergate Dawson Whyte when it comes to your insurance renewal time or when you next need a bond. Full details of the insurance package will be issued to members in the coming weeks and representatives

Hugh McKinty (Area Trading Director NI); David Burrows (Account Executive) and John Armstrong (CEF Managing Director) launch the CEF/Towergate Dawson Whyte insurance package for the construction sector.

of the Towergate Dawson Whyte team will be available for a chat at the forthcoming round of Local Association meetings.”

CEF Full and Associate members interested in availing of the membersonly insurance package should contact David Burrows on 028 9038 7648 or DavidBurrows@dawson-whyte.com.

Employers unDERprepared for auto-enrolment

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ecent research from the Pensions Regulator revealed that 20% of small employers (5-49 employees) and almost half of micro employers (1-4 employees) do not know their staging date.

The requirement to enrol workers into a qualifying workplace pension scheme (auto-enrolment) is now affecting medium-sized companies.

The ‘staging date’ is the date employers are required to comply with the legislation and is based on payroll at April 2012. Companies with 50 employees or less will stage from January 2015 onwards.

It is important that employers check their staging date as the Pensions

Regulator will impose fines for non-compliance. Employers must check their staging date by entering their PAYE reference(s) into the staging date calculator on the Pensions Regulator website.

Further guidance on identifying your staging date is available from the Pensions Regulator website www.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk or by telephone on 0845 600 1011.

The Enhance – Construction Pension Scheme meets the auto-enrolment requirements and is available to all employees in the construction industry, including office based staff enabling employers to use one scheme for their entire workforce.

CEF CALLS FOR REDUCED SEWER BONDS AND INSPECTION FEES

T

he Construction Employers Federation (CEF) formally called on the Department for Regional Development (DRD) in September 2014 to reduce the level of sewer bonds and inspection fees required by NI Water.

CEF was responding to the consultation on proposals for new water legislation which covered a wide range of issues including sewer bonds which CEF has been lobbying on for a number of years.

In its submission CEF made a robust argument that the charge for sewer bonds should be reduced from 40% to 20% based on estimated construction cost and that the inspection fees should also be based on estimated construction cost.

CEF also proposes that the link with 51% occupancy of new developments before adoption can proceed should be broken and that the on-site inspections prior to adoption, that were carried out by NI Water engineers before to 2007, should be reinstated. This will help avoid defects in the construction of sewers before adoption.

For full details of the of the CEF submission visit the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk.

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

PROJECT BANK ACCOUNTS: FEEDBACK ON PILOT The first report on the Project Bank Account pilot was presented at the meeting of the Construction Industry Forum (CIFNI) on 23 September 2014. The report provides feedback from the client, project manager, main contractor and subcontractors on the three projects where a Project Bank Account has been trialled in Northern Ireland.

For full details of the First CIFNI Report on the Project Bank Account Pilot visit the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk.

CEF BRINGS CONSTRUCTION ISSUES TO MLAs In September 2014 the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) attended a meeting of the All Party Group on Construction at the Northern Ireland Assembly. The meeting provides an opportunity for the industry to raise issues with MLAs from across the political spectrum.

At the meeting CEF highlighted the plight of those contractors who had been affected by Roads Service’s decision to cease all routine maintenance contracts due to cuts to the Department for Regional Development’s revenue budget. MLAs heard that contractors have been forced to make layoffs and were made aware of the threat posed to road safety due to poor maintenance. CEF will be meeting the Minister for Regional Development to discuss what steps can be taken to alleviate the situation.

The All Party meeting also provided the Federation with an opportunity to reinforce its opposition to the timing and mechanism proposed for the introduction of developer contributions for affordable housing. The Environment Minister attended the meeting for a slot and sought CEF’s feedback in person.

MISUSE OF Z CLAUSES TO BE CURTAILED

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he Government Construction Clients and the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) have almost reached agreement on a draft policy which will significantly reduce the misuse of NEC Z clauses in public sector contracts.

Earlier this year CEF submitted detailed proposals to the Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) on the use of Z Clauses following a surge of reports from members highlighting serious concerns about unreasonable risk transfer and poor quality tender documentation.

CPD and the Government Construction Clients have engaged positively with the industry and much progress has been made.

The current draft policy limits clients’ use of Z clauses to a menu of clauses. A client does not have to use all the Z clauses but importantly a client cannot include a Z clause that is not on the menu. Many of the typical Z clauses seen in recent contracts are not included in the menu. The draft policy will not apply to Term Service Contracts or Professional Services Contracts.

Whilst significant progress has been made, CEF believes that the menu of Z clauses is not the finished article. The key outstanding issues for CEF are: 1. The rationale for each Z clause included in the menu has not been clearly identified.

2. The client requirements to receive the conditions of contract and deed of appointment for every subcontractor are impractical. There are also difficulties with subcontractors getting collateral warranties.

3. The option to change payment terms. CEF also has suggestions for improved payment processes.

4. Clients have the option to pass the risk of force majeure entirely to the contractor.

5. There are still attempts to breach the NEC principle that the party that prepares the documentation is responsible for any ambiguities and that the reading party is entitled to take the most favourable position.

CEF has agreed with the Government Construction Clients that these outstanding issues should be discussed and addressed over the next few weeks so that a final draft can go to the Procurement Board for approval in November. CEF has also sought confirmation that all Government Construction Clients will be bound by this policy, including Housing Associations and other grant recipients.

ENVIRONMENT MINISTER ADOPTS BMAP

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n September Environment Minister Mark H Durkan announced in the Assembly that he had adopted the Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan (BMAP).

Reacting to the announcement, John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) said: “We warmly welcome the adoption of BMAP. This is good news for the construction industry and for all of us seeking to increase housing supply in Northern Ireland.”

“The adoption of the plan delivers the certainty the industry has been waiting on for almost ten years. This plan will confirm where particular developments can proceed or otherwise in an area affecting almost 40% of the population Mark H Durkan of Northern Ireland. It will boost the construction industry as it emerges from the deepest recession in living memory and, due to the sector’s unique multiplier effect, the wider economy will benefit.”

“Government estimates that we need 12,700 new housing units every year between now and 2025. Last year around 8,000 units were delivered. We need to substantially increase the supply of new private housing and the adoption of BMAP is an important step in facilitating that.”

However, following the Minister’s decision to adopt BMAP without the agreement of the full Northern Ireland Executive, Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster, launched a legal challenge. The Environment Minister confirmed that he will robustly defend his decision in the courts.

DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS – NOT NOW AND NOT LIKE THIS Courses & seminars programme NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2014 Topic

Date(s)

Duration

Duty of Care Goes Online – Intro to EDOC

5 Nov

2 hrs

NIEA Contaminated Land

20 Nov

2 hrs

Extracting Maximum Value From Your Waste

27 Nov

2 hrs

Get Ready for Changes to ISO14001

28 Nov

2 hrs

Spill Kit Training

11 Dec

2 hrs

Winning PQQs Masterclass in (Derry)

12 Nov

½ day

Quality Submissions – Substance & Style (Derry)

12 Nov

½ day

13 Nov

1 day

Environmental Sustainability

Winning Work

In Contract Programme under the NEC3 Contract

18 Nov

2 hrs

25 & 26 Nov

2 days

Health & Safety Health & Safety in Temporary Works

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he Construction Employers Federation (CEF) delivered a clear message to Government regarding the proposed introduction of developer contributions for social and affordable housing saying “Not now. Not like this.” The message was issued in September 2014 at a packed consultation event at the Templeton Hotel which was opened by the Ministers for Environment and Social Development.

CEF made a robust argument that this was not the right time for such proposals as the industry had not yet recovered from the deepest recession in memory. CEF also rebutted the proposals in their current format showing that they were out of step with the rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

The CEF presentation went on to illustrate that the best way to increase the volume of housing output including affordable housing was to implement a whole package of proposals to remove as many restraints on the house building sector as possible. These would include disentangling existing Article 40 agreements that have stalled progress, ensuring that the new planning system runs smoothly, investing in basic infrastructure that will help to key off new housing development and reducing excessive indirect charges on construction of new homes such as roads and sewer bonds and provision of street lighting.

For details of the CEF slide presentation and consultation response visit the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk.

CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYMENT UPDATE

Employment Law Joint Ventures – An Opportunity for Growth

L-R: John Armstrong (CEF); Jennie Donald (NIFHA); Nelson McCausland MLA (DSD Minister); Mark H Durkan MLA (DoE Minister); Justin Cartwright (CIH) and Prof Paddy Gray (University of Ulster).

Health & Safety (CSR courses) Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

14 Nov

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers Refresher

21 Nov

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers

2 & 9 Dec

2 days

Essential Health & Safety for Managers Refresher

10 Dec

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

12 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 Labour Force Survey (LFS) for the second quarter of 2014 was published in August 2014. The survey estimates that construction employment in Northern Ireland now stands at 66,000. This figure includes both employee jobs and selfemployed jobs.

The Q2 total is 4,000 lower than in Q1 2014 but is 8,000 higher than the total in the same quarter in 2013.

The average construction employment figure over the last four quarters is 64,000. This is up from 54,500 in the four quarters to June 2013.

Due to a small sample size the LFS results are prone to significant fluctuations that can exaggerate quarterly changes and therefore need to be treated with caution. The Quarterly Employment Survey (QES), which only monitors employee jobs, provides a more accurate measure of quarterly employment changes in construction.

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

44| drainage

Alumasc extends Harmer Drainage range

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n response to industry feedback and a changing market, Alumasc has expanded its range of market-leading Harmer Drainage products, resulting in the most comprehensive floor drainage offer on the UK market.

Featuring cast iron, stainless steel and aluminium, the new Harmer range of high performance drainage solutions is versatile enough to meet the demands of all market applications.

The all-new Harmer cast iron range consists of a selection of drain bodies, grates and bezels which are available as both fixed and adjustable products. There are 29 bodies available, incorporating shallow, medium and deep sumps, integral trapped sumps and clean out drains.

Over 30 new grates complement the range along with three bezel options – 4” NPSM thread, 110mm direct fix for cast iron and 110mm PVC throat – which are available in either nickel bronze or satin stainless finishes. A

further selection of drain body and grate assemblies completes the cast iron offering which are ideal for plant room and other industrial applications where an asphalt or composite floor exists.

The new Harmer stainless steel range offers a high-performance and highly versatile drainage solution, featuring stainless steel floor drains, channel drains and shower and wet room drainage. With features such as high flow performance, high sump volume, excellent corrosion resistance and integral waste baskets, the new range is suitable for a wide range of high-demand applications such as food and drink processing, hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, chemical and pharmaceutical.

The stainless steel floor range is available in both standard and compact drain sizings, either as a one or two part drain body with vertical or horizontal outlets. There is a wide choice of grate finishes to suit any application and load requirement, and installation is easy on a wide range of different flooring options.

Rainwater solution for Royal Liverpool Clubhouse

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lumasc Rainwater has provided a beautiful bespoke Rainwater System to the Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake.

As part of key preparations for the worldfamous tournament, the rainwater system on the Clubhouse was in need of some refurbishment, but works had to be carried out within a tight timeframe of eight weeks in order for it to be completed in time for the competition.

Alumasc’s Pre-Painted Cast Iron system was chosen for the massive savings it offers by cancelling out the need for having to paint several coats on site. The specification of a painted factory finish, completely removed the need for post-installation paintwork, saving the Golf Club around 60% on installation time, and 30% on cost.

Furber Roofing installed approximately 100 linear metres of Alumasc’s painted Cast Iron Rainwater around all elevations of the Clubhouse, and in order to ensure a result that remained sympathetic to the heritage of the stunning Victorian building, Alumasc manufactured bespoke Holderbats which were colour and design matched to existing products.

Alumasc’s pre-painted cast iron range boasts a highly durable four-coat factory finish available in eight standard heritage colours. Lasting up to seven years before re-painting is required, all products carry Alumasc’s certified paint mark to confirm the four-coat system, giving reassurance that the range is fully protected against the elements.

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lumasc Rainwater and Harmer Drainage have appointed a new Managing Director, Steve Durdant-Hollamby.

Steve joined the Alumasc team following a 25 year career in the construction industry, joining from ACO Technologies where he held the position of Commercial Director. Steve brings a wealth of experience in distribution markets, the merchant sector and product knowledge within the rainwater and drainage industry.

When it comes to future strategy for the Alumasc Rainwater and Harmer Drainage brands, Steve knows exactly what his plans are. He commented: “I am very much looking forward to joining what is already a very well-established and well-respected team. Together we will continue to drive the brands forward, encompassing greater market penetration and product development for the UK and export markets.”

46| CITB

CITB NI are evolving, celebrating 50 years supporting the local construction industry

The Construction Industry Training Board, established in 1964 are celebrating 50 years of leading the way in identifying the skills and training needs of the local construction industry.

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he organisation has changed significantly over the past 5 decades and has served the industry during both the high boom times and the low recessional times. With this in mind the organisation, more recently known as CITBConstructionSkills NI will now revert back to its original trading name, CITB NI in order to help celebrate the successes of

the past 50 years and also reflect better the work with local employers.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI said, “Our 50th Anniversary is quite an achievement and we are proud to have supported the development of our most valuable resource, our people during this time. Over recent years we have concentrated our efforts on supporting the industry to help it survive the economic downturn.

We have worked with the sector to improve their capabilities in

strategic planning and performance improvement at senior management level whilst also working to develop a qualified workforce at craft level. The economy in NI is levelling out and we are looking forward to the future with a confident and more capable workforce able to embrace the opportunities arising as our industry regenerates.”

“We may be changing our name but we are not changing our organisation, we will continue to work in partnership with CITB in Great Britain and the Construction Industry

Council as ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council for Construction.

As an Industry Training Board and Sector Skills Council our vision is to have a construction industry were skills and competence are at the core of every business plan and a training culture where skills are at the heart of each construction company, no matter how large or small.”

Over the past 50 years the construction industry has changed dramatically with significant changes to local city skylines, technology and construction methods.

CITB |47 Barry continued, “Construction is a historic industry. It has built our homes, our hospitals, our schools, our roads, our railways, our workplaces, our airports, our greatest cathedrals and historic buildings. These buildings and landmarks that have been developed will be here long after the construction process has been completed they have allowing us to make our mark on the landscape.

Looking forward to the next 50 years CITB NI will continue to support the industry in developing the people it needs to meet the challenges now and in the future.”

Training Grants Our training grant scheme offers support to a wide range of training and qualifications from apprentices through to the existing workforce including management and administration. The scheme is structured into 3 Tiers and and offers an economic incentive to train and whilst having a positive impact on the industry.

Mobile Training Unit Our Mobile Training Unit (MTU) provides a convenient way of meeting training requirements with minimum disruption to site work. The unit travels across Northern Ireland delivering short duration health and safety courses such as confined

spaces, excavations, manual handling and working at heights encouraging the industry to build safely. Free to all registered in-scope employers the MTU can be booked in advance.

Employer Events

(See dates below) We hold free information events for local construction employers providing the latest information on training advice and guidance on grants, other funded training initiatives and the services that are available to registered employers.

The employer events are designed to help local construction employers openly discuss issues, network with other employers and find out what support is available for training. Up to date and relevant Health and Safety information is also provided by Health and Safety Works NI to help support the construction employer in this area.

Qualifications It is important to get the industry qualified to the appropriate standard, if we are to be globally competitive, we must enhance the skills of our people at all levels.

This has been demonstrated through the ‘Qualifying the Existing Workforce’ project were over £1million of funding has been secured over 4 years to deliver 1600 NVQ Level 2 Qualifications

to the employed but unqualified construction workers of which approximately 1/3 have already been delivered.

Nine assessment centres have been awarded the contract to qualify and assess the candidates across the Province. There are 45 occupations available ranging from bricklaying to wall and floor tiling and including occupations new to the project this year such as asbestos removal, hire and rental and roofing.

For full details, a list of assessment Centre’s and occupations available, and to find out more about registering, log onto www.citbni. org.uk and follow the links to FREE NVQ’s.

Skillbuild NI Skillbuild NI is run by CITB NI and held annually each spring, with the top local construction apprentices competing to win coveted titles ranging from brickwork to wall and floor tiling. The winners may then go on to represent Northern Ireland in the Skills Show UK and potentially at WorldSkills. The competition invests in the youth market and helps fine tune their skills for the future.

Shared Apprenticeships The Shared Apprenticeship Programme NI allows apprentices to complete a full apprenticeship

programme by working with a number of different employers, to gain the skill sets they require to become qualified. Throughout the duration of the training the apprentice will also obtain their level 3 Vocational Qualification through the normal College system.

Barry continued, “We will continue to develop new interventions and programs focusing on Apprenticeships and Leadership within the sector to ensure the industry has the skills to deliver and the strategic management to do so efficiently and economically. We will also address skills development in specialist areas such as heritage and sustainable construction methods in order to assist with opportunities that may arise in these sectors and we will continue to work closely with industry partners, stakeholders and Government to ensure a qualified and competent industry to ensure growth is sustained over the long-term.”

Contact Interested parties can keep up to date with the progress and development of these skills and training projects at www.citbni. org.uk or by ‘liking’ CITB NI on Facebook http://www.facebook. com/CITBNorthernIreland or joining the discussion on Twitter @CITBNI

Construction Employer Information Events 2015 DAY Thursday Thursday Thursday Thursday Thursday

DATE February 26 March 19 April 23 May 19 June 18

EVENT Fermanagh Enterprise Ltd, Enniskillen CIDO Innovation Centre, Portadown Omagh Enterprise Centre, Omagh Newry Mourne Country Hotel, Newry Waterfoot Hotel, Derry-Londonderry

Construction Health & Safety Workshops 2014-2015 CITB NI also works closely with Health and Safety Works NI and partners together for Construction Health and Safety Workshops for building contractors.

These workshops are aimed at owners or safety officers of small construction companies and focus on health and safety plans and method statements.

2014 DAY Thursday Thursday Thursday

DATE October 16 November 6 November 20

EVENT Armagh Business Centre, Armagh Ards Business Centre, Newtownards Causeway Enterprise Agency, Coleraine

Jan 14 March 24

Ormeau Business Park, Belfast CITB NI, Nutts Corner Training Centre, Crumlin

2015 Wednesday Tuesday

For more information on these events log on to www.citbni.org.uk/events.aspx

digest

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UUJ and Association for Project Management host anniversary celebrations

T

o mark 25 years of its highly regarded Masters Programme in Construction Business & Project Management, the University of Ulster Jordanstown (UUJ) is hosting a celebratory event on the evening of 3rd December in conjunction with the Association for Project Management (APM).

APM’s Northern Ireland branch was inaugurated 21 years ago, at UUJ and the Masters Course Director, Mike Browne, was its founding Chairman.

Commenting on the significance of the event he said, “Northern Ireland is a very different place to what it was 25 years ago. This is a unique occasion for academia, alumni, and practitioners in the field of construction and

project management to celebrate what has been achieved over that time as well as look towards a vibrant future by showcasing one of the most exciting construction projects taking place at present, the new Belfast Ulster University campus.”

The event will be attended

by Professor Alastair Adair, UUJ’s Provost and Pro Vice Chancellor (Development), as well APM President, Tom Taylor and will feature presentations on the Greater Belfast Development project as seen from the client’s perspective. “As one of the largest construction projects in the province the new Belfast campus is a transformative and exciting initiative that will create a modern university in the heart of Belfast,” explained Mike. “The event will be an opportunity to explore, from a client’s perspective, the development of a mission critical capital project from project appraisal, initiation and funding issues, to the risk factors and

Masters Course Director at UUJ Mike Browne with Deputy Chairman of APM NI Branch Rachel Overton

their management.”

The event takes place in the Assembly Hall University of Ulster, Jordanstown Campus, from 5.008.00pm on 3rd December. Anyone interested in attending should check

APM’s website for further details at www.apm.org.uk/events or register their interest now by contacting Mrs Rosi Browne, Faculty Administrative Assistant, Ulster University on 02890366215/ e-mail r.browne@ulster.ac.uk.

interview |49

Pictured at Haldane Fisher’s headquarters in Newry L-R: Andrew Laird, Human Resources Associate Director, Mark Freeman Building Materials Associate Director, Tom Gray Sales Director, Monica Cunningham Finance Associate Director, David Haldane Commercial Director, Ian Haldane Managing Director, Mary Hannaway IT Associate Director, Photo: Richard Trainor

Haldane Shiells: Expanding through Recession...

Despite turnover dropping during the economic downturn, Haldane Shiells have come through the recession in a much stronger position than most companies in the building trade...

Specify talks to Managing Director Ian Haldane...

I

an Haldane is the third generation of his family to run their construction supplies business and steered the ever expanding outfit through what was the worst recession in the company’s history.

Haldane Shiells is made up of Haldane Fisher here in Northern Ireland and in the Isle of Man, and GE Robinson in the north west of England. Back in 2004 many companies were expanding into the burgeoning southern Ireland market and while Haldane Fisher were supplying many builder’s merchants in the south of Ireland with roof trusses, timber and general building materials, the board of Directors headed in a different direction – across the Irish

sea to the Isle of Man. This was to be the first of a number of business acquisitions outside Ireland which were to prove both timely and profitable and took the company reliance away from the all Ireland building market which was about to suffer a catastrophic failure.

The Isle of Man acquisitions were followed by a further takeover in Manchester of GE Robinson, a building supplies company with three branches in the north of England.

The turnover figure at Haldane Shiells, which had peaked at £103 million pre recession, was starting to show waves as the first signs of a recession were beginning to hit and having outlets in both the Isle of Man and England lessened the company’s exposure to the Irish market.

Ian Haldane doesn’t take credit for these wise and timely decisions but pays tribute to the Board of Directors at the company and the way it is run. “We have a great leadership team, a great board of Directors and excellent Sales, Operations and Administration teams,” says Ian. “We set our budgets at the end of every year and like most people, we thought that the recession would follow the normal cyclical patter and last two or three years - but instead it turned into a very long six to seven years. Virtually no sector escaped the recession and the markets, particularly in Ireland, were overheated and suffered badly.

“During this time we held six monthly reviews and had to match overheads to sales figures. In turn

that invariably meant reducing overheads – particularly payroll and transportation costs and as a result we had to think outside of the box, centralise and condense. We have a good team in our credit control department and while we were owed more than we would have liked, it was certainly much lower than many other companies.

“We kept the staff fully informed all along and all our decisions were well informed. We always maintained our focus on sales and continued promotions to retain our existing customers and try and attract new ones. Staying close to your customers is vital, especially during a recession, and we kept a marketing budget and kept promoting the company brand and its awareness.

50| interview The channels of communication throughout the company were kept open and the core team were kept together so that all the staff could suggest ways to save money. If someone came up with a good idea and did a good job we made sure we told them and we told them with sincerity.”

While there were a number of redundancies in the company, all branches remained open and as market conditions have improved, the company policy of expansion both organically and through acquisition has held firm.

The Haldane Shiells Group continues to grow and its most recent acquisition was the WMMT (West Midlands Merchant Trading) Group, based in Walsall. The turnover of the Group in 2014 is expected to be close to pre-recession levels through its 10 branches in Northern Ireland, two in the Isle of Man and four in England. Ian has already been looking at more acquisitions in England where the recovery is well underway.

“I’m confident of the future of the company,” says Ian. “We have a strong outlook and the housing market will slowly pick up again both north and south. Ireland should be able to sustain around 35,000 new homes a year, 10,000 of those in the north. During the recession some years there were only 5,000 new homes built in Ireland as a whole.

The banks have to start working with the construction industry again.

Everyone knows that all the banks have had a hard hit on balance sheets and lending to our market is not a favoured priority. Job security is improving and disposable income is finally beginning to improve. The economy is starting to edge forward and certainly the future is much brighter than it was six years ago.

“We have had great support from Danske Bank and they continue to back us. Recovery will be slow as the banks start to warm up to our market again by providing development and working capital finance to our customers. The RMI market will also take time to recover as confidence, job security and disposable income improve,” says Ian. “Since the middle of 2013 we have seen 10 per cent growth in Northern Ireland, with stronger growth in the UK, which wasn’t hit as hard as Ireland. It will take more time for the recovery here to get properly underway, but at least the signs are promising The future will also see some significant organisational changes with Ian’s brother David taking over as

Managing Director of Haldane Fisher in Northern Ireland. “We have really strong management teams within each branch and hold structured meetings in every branch every two months, bi-monthly board meetings and financial reviews. I let the operating team run the business so I personally can look at both organic growth and acquisitions.”

With Ian leading a very strong board of directors, the future at Haldane Shiells is definitely on the up.

Managing Director Ian Haldane

ALMOST SEVENTY YEARS OF EXPANSION...

The Haldane Shiells Group, is one of Ireland’s largest suppliers of timber, building and plumbing materials. The parent company was established in Monaghan Street, Newry in 1946

by Robert (Bob) Haldane, father of the late John Haldane and the grandfather of the Group’s current Managing Director, Ian Haldane.

During its early years Haldane Shiells’ timber operations were centred around native woods, but in the late 1950s it became apparent that a major change of emphasis was required. Local products were insufficient to supply the ever increasing demand, so they started to import. In 1958 John Haldane joined the company, specialising in his early years in the sourcing and purchasing of timber from the Scandinavian countries, Canada and Russia. The first full ship load of 1,000 cubic metres of imported timber arrived in the Newry premises in 1962.

The expertise in timber developed within the company since its formation, continues to provide the Group with a firm foundation for the future, however, in addition at this time, a thriving hardware shop had been established and the company also started to develop the building materials and plumbing and heating departments. The business grew steadily throughout the sixties responding to the needs of its expanding customer base.

It was in the mid-seventies that John Haldane decided to expand the Company and in 1976 a branch was opened in Newtownards to service customers in North Down.

The success of this venture was such that in 1979 the North Down Branch relocated to a prime six acre site adjacent to the Newtownards / Bangor dual carriageway at Conlig and today employs a staff of 35.

Further expansion in 1979 included the acquisition of the majority holding of T A Shillington & Son Limited, of Portadown. Shillington’s are one

of Ulster’s oldest companies in the building supplies business, with a history going back over one hundred and fifty years to their foundation in 1835.

In 1986 McCue Dick & Company Limited, Belfast was acquired.

However, following a period of consolidation, the Group relinquished its interest in the Company in 1991.

In 1990 the Group made the most momentous business decision of its relatively short history when it decided to buy the premises and assets of the long established Newry based company of J S Fisher Limited who at that time were owned by Redland Plc. In May 1990 a new company, Haldane Fisher, located at Carnbane, Newry was formed.

The Haldane Shiells Group also acquired Fishers of the Mahon in 1990. This branch was later renamed as Haldane Fisher and from its location on the Mahon Road, Portadown it complemented the operation at Castle Street by supplying customers on the outskirts of the town and surrounding district.

In January 1998 the group made a further acquisition in Lisburn, Hewitt and Robinson. The company subsequently changed its name to Haldane Fisher on 1st October 1999.

In December 2000 the group again made further acquisitions, Trevor Lusty Ltd in Belfast which has two branches, one in Ladas Drive in Belfast and another in Balmoral Road.

From July 2001 they were renamed Haldane Fisher Belfast Ltd. Further acquisitions were made at the end of 2003 when the Group acquired Douglas Steam Sawmill & Timber Co. Ltd which has two trading outlets in the Isle of Man. These two branches, based in Douglas and Ramsey, now trade as Haldane Fisher (IOM) Ltd. In 2006 the Group made another acquisition with the purchase of the long established business of GE Robinson and Co Ltd. This company

operates from three branches in North West England, based at Salford, Aston-in-Makerfield and Garstang.

In February 2009 the Group purchased John McMurtry and Co Ltd which has two branches, one in Larne and another in Ballymena. In January 2010 these were re-branded Haldane Fisher.

In June 2009 the Group opened a further Haldane Fisher branch in Coleraine on the site formerly operated by Christies Building Centre. This brings the number of trading outlets to ten in Northern Ireland and gives the Company an important presence in the north of the province.

The most recent acquisition was in January 2014 of WMMT (West Midlands Merchant Trading) Group, based in Walsall This brings the total number of branches within the Group to sixteeen. Despite this continued growth the Group still retains the high levels of personal service one would associate with a family run business. The Group employs over 400 people across all its branches.

These branches and their customers reap all the benefits of belonging to a Group, including the advantages of a central buying policy for key product lines. This policy has undoubtedly been an important factor in ensuring the continuing growth and expansion of the Haldane Shiells Group. A key factor in its growth has been the skill and commitment of its workforce many of whom have been with the company for 20, 30 and even 40+ years.

The Haldane Shiells Group has come a long way since its origins in the centre of Newry. Ian Haldane and his experienced management team are committed to building on the Groups success by ensuring that its production and operational methods are to the highest possible standards.

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|51

Carbon Trust accreditation pays off for Sheridan & Hood

Sheridan & Hood, one of Northern Ireland’s leading mechanical and electrical engineering firms, has become Northern Ireland’s first Carbon Trust Accredited biomass Supplier.

The company, which has helped 20 businesses save over £450,000 through the installation of state-ofthe-art biomass heating systems, is the first and only supplier in Northern Ireland to receive the accreditation, which provides independent validation and recognition of a supplier’s skills and services for the provision of

renewable technology solutions.

Sheridan Hood was formed in 1968 and the family run firm employs 45 people, delivering innovative renewable energy solutions to meet the growing demand in Northern Ireland for sustainable fuel sources.

They have invested significantly in developing their biomass heating systems, which have been installed in organisations, both large and small, across Northern Ireland.

Brian Hood, Managing Director, Sheridan & Hood, said, “Over the past 40 years we have worked hard to lead the field in delivering innovative

Local company Whitemountain, part of the Lagan Group, was ready to tee off just in time for the prestigious Ryder Cup at the Gleneagles hotel in Perthshire, Scotland, thanks to its completion of a £3m construction project.

Whitemountain provides quality services in the construction, quarrying and civil engineering sectors. The Gleneagles contract involved a large team based on site between November 2013 and July 2014.

This £3m scheme from Whitemountain alongside other upgrades brings a total of £10m investment and improvement to the local area.

Mark Kelly, Managing Director of Whitemountain commented on the success of the project; “We were delighted to be appointed given Northern Ireland’s recent success in the golfing world. The project involved the construction of a new 1km road and associated works in preparation for the Ryder Cup. “Our team of experts completed a new link road from the train station to the nearby A9 dual carriageway as well as the widening of an existing roundabout. We were also able to upgrade the existing car park at the local train station providing around 100 spaces including cycle tracks and a bus turning area.

“This new more accessible car park also involved the installation of a drainage system, attenuation tank and the removal of a 21 metre footbridge that had previously connected two listed buildings.”

Together, these improvements have boosted public transport use whilst providing safer access to a number of local roads. The investment in road and rail infrastructure around Gleneagles has delivered a lasting transport legacy for local communities and visitors to the region.

solutions for our customers. With businesses facing increasing overheads as the price of fossil fuel continues to rise, we took the proactive step of designing, engineering manufacturing our own range of biomass heating modules and package plant rooms in association with our sister company BS Holdings.

“These systems are now helping businesses and individuals save on their overheads and also reduce their carbon footprint. The accreditation from the Carbon Trust gives our customers further reassurance that we are providing them with sustainable and energy efficient systems that cut their bills and help contribute to a more sustainable society.”

The Carbon Trust Accredited Supplier Scheme is the marketleading scheme for high quality energy efficient equipment and renewable technology suppliers. It provides independent validation and recognition of a supplier’s skills and services.

Sheridan & Hood has helped specialist civil engineering and piling contractors Dawson-Wam Ltd cut their oil use by 45,271kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (C02e) and

electricity by 12,141 kg C02e, with the replacement of the company’s traditional LPG heating system with a biomass heating system that qualifies for the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which will see the firm receive free heating for the next twenty years.

The innovative 99kW system includes high-tech controls installed to ensure optimum system performance as well as producing online reports to monitor the system’s performance and company’s fuel consumption and emissions.

Jonathan McGall, Dawson-Wam, “We were so impressed with the incredible savings on our annual heating bills but realised that there was more we could do across our operations”.

“BS Holdings provided us with a quick and easy service that didn’t disrupt our head offices operations and we were keen to work with them again to enhance the energy efficiency of our workshop facility”.

“The economic climate remains challenging, and if we can reduce our business overheads as significantly as we were able to do at our head office, we will be better able to compete.”

NI firm boosts infrastructure for Ryder Cup

Pictured at the opening of Geneagles Station; Gareth McNern, Project Manager, Whitemountain; Mark McConechy, Supervisors Representative, CH2M Hill; Stuart Ramsay, Project Managers Representative, CH2M Hill; Peter Marriot, Project Manager, CH2M Hill; John Hasson, Operations Manager, Whitemountain and John Donaghy, Commercial Manager, Whitemountain.

52|

digest

CITB NI celebrates Marcon Fit-Out enjoys the past and looks the adventures of forward to the future Synge & Byrne

Maurice Johnston, Chairman CITB NI and Derek Baker, Permanent Secretary, Department for Employment.

The Construction Industry Training Board, established in 1964, is celebrating 50 years of leading the way in identifying the skills and training needs of the local construction industry. In order to mark this special anniversary the organisation brought together Board members past and present to acknowledge how they have served the industry over the past five decades during both high boom times and low recessional times and look forward to the next 50 years and beyond with hope and optimism.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI said: “Our 50th Anniversary is quite an achievement and we are proud to have supported the development of our most valuable resource, our people during this time. Over recent years we have concentrated our efforts on supporting the industry to help it survive the economic downturn. We have worked with the sector to improve their capabilities in strategic planning and performance improvement at senior management level whilst also working to develop a qualified workforce at craft level.”

Barry continued: “By bringing together past and present Board members we are acknowledging the work that we have done and the work we have yet to do. The economy in Northern Ireland is levelling out and we are looking forward to the future with a confident and more capable workforce able to embrace the opportunities arising as our industry regenerates. We will continue to work closely with industry partners, stakeholders and Government to ensure a qualified and competent industry to ensure growth is sustained over the longterm.”

Mark O’Connor, Director, Marcon Fit-Out, with Damien Garvey, Director, BWL Group, at the new Synge & Byrne coffee kitchen in Derry-Londonderry.

Antrim-based firm Marcon Fit-Out has played a key role in the latest stage of an ambitious rollout of a new coffee and food brand across Northern Ireland and beyond.

Marcon has just completed the fit-out of a new Synge & Byrne ‘coffee kitchen’ at the Foyleside Shopping Centre in Derry-Londonderry.

It is the third Synge & Byrne to date and Marcon, which works across the retail, heritage, office, leisure and hospitality sectors, has fitted out all three.

The locally-owned BWL Group, which is behind the new brand, is planning to introduce three new locations each year over the next five years. Brothers Damien and Adrian Garvey, who run BWL, are also considering rolling out Synge & Byrne coffee kitchens in Britain and further afield.

Marcon Director Mark O’Connor explained: “This was a challenging but very enjoyable five-week project and one that our team fully embraced.

“The Synge & Byrne theme, which we have worked with BWL to develop, is not quite what you would expect from a coffee shop. The ethos behind the design is to create interesting spaces, and to blend old style finishes with new.”

All the joinery items and solid surface worktops were manufactured at Marcon’s specialist joinery workshop in Antrim.

Wilson Construction wins Business Excellence Award Wilson Construction, which is part of the Wilson Group with headquarters on the Antrim Road in Belfast, has won a Business Excellence award at the South Eastern Regional College (SERC) graduation event at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast. The award is in recognition of the company’s commitment to supporting education and employability in the Student Mentoring category.

Gerard Graham from Wilson Construction commented: “In co-operation with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) we arranged site visits throughout the year to new and exciting construction projects which the Construction Management students attended.

We also conducted presentations in the campuses at Bangor, Downpatrick and Lisburn to help the students prepare for their careers in the construction industry. We very much appreciate winning this award and are looking forward to continuing to engage with the college in the future.”

Other companies that received awards in the same category include Tesco and Belfast International Airport and FASA Eden.

Dr Stephen Farry, Minister for Employment & Learning with Gerard Graham (centre) and Robson Davison, Chair of the Governing Body, SERC.

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|53

Harvey Group awarded contract for new £30m Waterfront conference facility

Harvey Group Plc have recently been awarded the contract for the mechanical and electrical services at the new £30m conference facility at Belfast Waterfront.

Brian Harvey, Managing Director of Harvey Group Plc, said: “Having played a major role in the original Waterfront Hall complex back in 1996, we are delighted to have been chosen to provide the mechanical and electrical services for the new conference facilities. The Belfast Waterfront is an iconic project, instantly recognisable as a landmark of our city. We are proud to be given this further opportunity to work on this beautiful building.”

Brian Harvey added: “Harvey Group will be working in partnership with McLaughlin & Harvey to deliver the £30m project, due to commence early 2015. We have a long standing working relationship with McLaughlin & Harvey and have combined recently at the Deloitte Technology Studio Belfast, and new University of Ulster BA, BB buildings in central Belfast” During the original 1996 Waterfront project, Harvey’s developed specialist skills in pipe prefabrication, which they called the ‘Toast Rack’ pipe system. This innovation was used to overcome the challenge of making best use of the space available within the unique circular plant room. The company progressed using this system and similar systems to coordinate and prefabricate services in many other projects.

Directors Brian Harvey and Herbie Watterson look over the new Belfast Waterfront plans with Team Leaders Sam Glass and Geoffrey Stewart.

McCue Crafted Fit secures its first marine contracts Northern Ireland fit-out specialist, McCue Crafted Fit, has announced two new cruise ship refurbishment contracts with Thomson Cruises, part of TUI Travel Plc. The deals with the UK’s third largest cruise line will see the refurbishment of the Thomson Celebration in Cyprus and the Thomson Dream in Gibraltar and are the first secured by the company since

entering the important marine market earlier this year.

The projects include the fit-out of new Asian themed restaurants on both ships; the renovation of the café on board Thomson Dream and the overhaul of the Thomson Celebration ‘Liberties’ Lounge with a new permanent exterior bar facility prefabricated in McCue’s 60,000ft2 joinery facility in Carrickfergus.

Best-known for its award-winning work on shops, bars and restaurants, McCue has previously delivered some of the most ambitious retail and hospitality projects in the UK, Ireland and Europe – including overhauls of luxury London hotels The Savoy; The Berkeley and Claridges.

Les McCracken, McCue Crafted Fit Managing Director said: “These contracts are significant for us and provide a strong vote of confidence in our ability to deliver on important projects in the marine sector. While we are new to this area our land-based experience team ethos and track record of delivering on quality and on-time give us a strong position to grow within the market.

“This is a sector which has been on our radar for a number of years now and we have carefully strengthened our ability to compete for turnkey fit out projects with cruise lines, ferry operators and shipyards on a global basis.

We are excited at the prospect of working with Thomson on these two projects.”

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54|

RIBA

launch new contracts

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has launched two new and innovative building contracts.

Designed to be used in conjunction with RIBA’s Architect’s Appointment Agreements for Small Projects (domestic and concise forms); the new contracts are fully aligned with the RIBA Plan of Work 2013.

The new contracts have been designed in response to feedback from RIBA members calling for improvement and innovation within the building contracts currently available.

The RIBA Domestic Building Contract provides a simple, comprehensive and legally appropriate contract solution for all types of non-commercial work, including renovations, extensions, maintenance and new buildings.

The contract is endorsed by the HomeOwners Alliance.

The RIBA Concise Building Contract provides a complete contract solution to cover small scale commercial building projects of a standard and straightforward nature.

“THE NEW CONTRACTS ARE FULLY ALIGNED WITH THE RIBA PLAN OF WORK 2013” The new RIBA Building Contracts form part of a move towards a holistic suite of project contracts that can be prepared and stored digitally and are more relevant and focused around the needs of those undertaking smaller projects – a more intelligent and flexible suite of documents that are easier to use, yet reduce risks to both parties and the project overall. The RIBA is also working on updating the suite of RIBA Agreements, to be available as an online tool.

Northern Ireland house building resurgence, reports NHBC New house building figures released by NHBC at the end of October show that new home registrations in Northern Ireland experienced a 71% increase for Q3 2014 compared to the same period last year.

In total, 700 new homes were registered during Q3 compared to 410 in Q3 2013. Overall year to date figures also show that the volumes of new homes being built are up 20% across the country compared to January – September last year (1,478 in 2013; 1,779 in 2014).

Commenting on the figures, NHBC Regional Director for Northern Ireland David Little said; “Following encouraging signs of growth in recent months, we are delighted to report such positive results for this latest period.

However, the figures are still low by

historic standards and volumes for new home construction in Northern Ireland need to increase much more to meet demand.”

Overall UK figures for Q3 2014 reveal that new home registrations have increased 8% on the same period last year with the private sector continuing to be the main driver of growth. These figures represent the highest year to date figures and the highest Q3 figures since 2007.

In total for the UK, 36,343 new homes were registered with NHBC between July and September this year (28,468 private sector; 7,875 public sector), compared to 33,573 (24,984 private sector; 8,589 public sector) for the same period in 2013. This represents a 14% increase for the private sector, with the public sector still under-performing when compared to last year’s

figures. However, NHBC anticipates that public sector registrations will begin to grow again as the next phase of the Government’s Affordable Housing Programme has recently been allocated.

As the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, NHBC’s monthly registration statistics are a leading indicator of the health of the country’s new homes market.

Commenting on the latest statistics, NHBC’s Chief Executive Mike Quinton said: “We are very encouraged to see that house building is again beginning to show signs of accelerated growth across the UK. Following the dramatic growth in 2013, followed by a period of consolidation in the first half of this year, our latest data would suggest that the pace of growth is picking up again.”

Addressing Skills Shortages and Office Under-supply key to NI Economy RICS NI Chairman’s Annual Report Debilitating skills shortages in the construction sector and a limited supply of Grade A office space are amongst the local economy’s key current challenges, according to the Northern Ireland chairman of RICS. Paul Kendrick says that flat-lining infrastructure workloads are also a major concern.

In his Annual Report, Mr Kendrick says that areas of focus for government and industry should include: encouraging more women into the local construction sector, increasing capital spending, and encouraging the development of more prime office space.

RICS, which has a remit to act in the public interest through its Royal Charter, has members across the land, property and construction industries in Northern Ireland.

They include the chief executives of housing associations, leading academics, business leaders, senior public servants, and a range of other

practitioners.

Mr Kendrick says: “There have been an impressive number of investment and new job announcements in recent years, including by large international companies.

But we currently have a situation where there is not a lot of Grade A office space available here, Paul Kendrick, right, when he received the chain of office from previous RICS NI Chairman, Michael Hannaway. and a limited pipe-line. If we don’t have the kind “Increased infrastructure spending of office space that major is also essential for the economy. investors require, the reality is that The public finances are under severe in future they will go elsewhere. pressure, but we cannot afford Increasing the supply of prime office not to invest in our infrastructure. space in Belfast needs to be private Doing so would not only increase sector-led, but government can help Northern Ireland’s competitiveness create an enabling environment; long-term, it also offers the prospect for instance fast-tracking planning of an immediate economic boost applications for strategically important through the construction activity that office development. Looking to the would result. Careful disposals of model in Cardiff where they have government property assets could designated 140 acres of prime play an important role in creating city centre land as an Enterprise Zone to encourage Grade A office additional funding,” Mr Kendrick development could be an option.” concluded..

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Premium Swiss Quality Panel Systems for High End Architecture

Level threshold isolation dpc's and compatible vertical closers now available.

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

Calor Gas Northern Ireland Limited

Swiss Facades Contact Anne Hurl.

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

• Tailored energy solution • Full design service • Technical support and guidance • 24-hour emergency call out

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

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

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

Calor Accredited CPD programme available.

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

Demolition

Concrete 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

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

We offer our customers:

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

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

Industrial Doors

Metal Finishing

PLASTIC SHEETS/ SHAPES

PAVING

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

Then there’s our unique range of problem solvers:

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

• • • • • •

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

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

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

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

Insurance Intermediaries

Local construction insurance expertise at competitive terms

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

Mats and matting

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

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

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

DRILLING & PUMPING SUPPLIES LTD

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

Contact Keith Hynds or David Stevenson

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

PUMPING

METAL MESH

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

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

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

"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

Drilling & Pumping Supplies Ltd Tel: 028 9181 8347 Email: sales@dps-ni.com

Hire Centres

Partitions (Acoustic)

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

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

SAFETY

FreePhone

0800 1 970 970

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

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

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

Dec/JAN 2014 NEXT ISSUE...

REcruitment

PLASTER & PLASTERBOARD

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: june@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

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

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

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

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

PVC BUILDING PRODUCTS

Specialists in uPVC Building Products.

• FASCIA & SOFFITS • HYGEINIC WALL CLADDING • WINDOW TRIMS

Head Office:

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

Branches at: Ballymena 028 25645380 Cookstown 028 86764422

• Roofing & Cladding • Timber in Construction

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

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

TREE CARE SERVICES

• RAINWATER SYSTEMS

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

Washroom systems

PRONET SAFETY SERVICES

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

Safety

Newry 028 30252499

Design that lasts Extensive range of washroom systems

Outstanding quality & performance

Exceptional service & support

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

Wall & DOOR PROTECTION

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

Clarke Cunningham Tree Maintenance Ltd.

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

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

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

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

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

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

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

Dec/JAN 2014 NEXT ISSUE...

product news |59 NEW OUTWARD-OPENING WINDOW FROM SCHUECO UK DELIVERS QUALITY AND ECONOMY IN ONE SYSTEM

Ex-Or’s new PIR sensors

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

W: www.ex-or.com E: enquiries.ex-or@honeywell.com

N

ew from market-leader Schueco UK Ltd is AWS 70 SC, an insulated, outward-opening window that delivers Schueco ‘build quality’ at an economical price, providing a perfect solution for new and replacement windows in houses and apartments, light commercial buildings, local authority properties, schools and clinics.

With a depth of 70 mm, slim sightlines from 63.5 mm (outer frame/vent) and a choice of five vent profiles offering optimum cost/size/weight options, Schueco AWS 70 SC is ideal for the fenestration in punched openings, ribbon windows and curtain walling.

The system can accommodate double- or triple-glazed units and achieves a typical ‘U’ value of 1.5 W/m2K with 1.0 W/m2K glazing units, which makes it compliant with Document L. In addition, a WER up to ‘A’ is an option.

Fittings include a choice of standard or heavy-duty stainless-steel friction hinges, together with multipoint locking for large vents. The window has opening limiters and with a PAS 24 rating, the system is able to offer a high level of security.

There is a projecting sill option and profiles may be specified with different colours on the inside and outside faces. 90o and variable-angle connections mean bay windows can be easily accommodated and the system is also fully compatible with Schueco ADS 70 doors.

E

x-Or’s new range of PIR sensors, LightSpot HD has launched, using innovative new features to make light work for energy efficiency, comfort, productivity and ease of use all backed by Ex-Or quality and a five year warranty.

LightSpot HD sensors provide class leading sensitivity with macro and micro detection, ensuring that lights deliver optimal luminance when required and switch off when they are not being used, making light work of comfort and productivity. Users can also set the light level by Lux value, optimising natural daylight without compromising comfort.

The LightSpot HD sensors, enhanced with both spring clip and locking ring fixing options, are fitted with pluggable, colour coded connectors, making the installation process easy and eliminating errors. The sensors provide flexibility and ease of use through the inclusion of QuickLink, a unique intelligent solution that lets installers create a simple small network of up to four sensors. Additionally, the sensor includes tilting lenses and precision lens masks which allow the sensing zone to be created exactly where it is required and adapted accordingly.

Lakes Bathrooms launches 10mm shower screens

BRE APPROVAL FOR NEW FIRE-DOOR FROM SCHUECO JANSEN

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

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

S

hower enclosure specialist Lakes Bathrooms has launched two new 10mm designs as part of its runaway hit, the Coastline Collection. The most popular designs in its Walk-in range, the Cannes and Nice, are now available in original 8mm and heavier thickness 10mm glass.

As with the whole of the Coastline Collection, the look for the new 10mm designs is confident, sleek, minimalist and contemporary. The profiles are siliconfree to support the clean lines and Lakes Bathrooms’ stay clean coating, AllClear®, is applied as standard to both sides of the glass.

Retail prices for the 10mm Walk-in styles start from £349 plus VAT.

T: 01684 853870

T

he Janisol 2 EI30 Fire-Resistant Sliding Door from steel specialist Schueco Jansen has been officially approved for use in the UK by BRE. This means that architects needing to include effective passive fire-protection systems in their buildings can now specify this advanced steel door in the certainty that it meets all the statutory regulations.

Introduced into the UK in January this year, the Jansol 2 EI30 sliding fire door combines an elegant appearance – thanks to its extremely slender frame profiles – with a very high level of protection against both flame and heat, even under extreme loads.

While the system is extremely versatile in use – design options include a wide choice of drive-motors and glass types – the door is mainly specified for barrier-free buildings which require higher security requirements and easy access, such as shopping centres, stadia, administration buildings and offices.

Constructed from tried-and-tested Janisol profiles and engineered to allow an inward (break-in) or outward (break-out) direction of escape depending upon location, the Janisol 2 EI30 door is available in either a single-leaf or a double-leaf configuration.

ROBUST THERMOPLASTIC PUMPS RESIST AGGRESSIVE CHEMICALS

SCHUECO FIRE-PROTECTION SYSTEMS BENEFIT FROM INDUSTRY UPTURN

W: www.michael-smith-engineers.co.uk/products/arbo-pumps E: Info@michael-smith-engineers.co.uk

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

T

he new range of ARBO thermoplastic mechanically sealed centrifugal pumps are available in a choice of polypropylene, polyethylene, PVDF and PTFE so they resist the effects of aggressive chemicals which can cause corrosion problems for metallic pumps.

By manufacturing all wetted parts out of solid block without the need for injection moulding eliminates the potential for stress-cracking.

Furthermore, the combination of tough, non-metallic materials and stress relieving production methods provides outstanding chemical and temperature resistance to ensure safe and reliable pumping, even in the most challenging applications. As well as offering excellent chemical and corrosion resistance, ARBO pumps can handle solid particles up to 3mm, ensuring extended pump operation in the event of process upset.

Introduced in the UK by pumping specialists MICHAEL SMITH ENGINEERS these compact, yet robust pumps are designed to handle flows up to 500m INCLUDEPICTURE "cid:image003.gif@01CFF843.1C13CA30" \* MERGEFORMATINET /hr, heads to 90 metres and are available in close, or long coupled designs.

A

ccording to leading aluminium systems supplier Schueco UK Ltd., the continuing upturn in activity in the UK building industry – particularly in respect of commercial properties – has led to an increasing demand for all types of their fire-protection products All but indistinguishable in appearance from standard products, Schueco fire-protection systems have been independently tested to EN 1364/1634, meeting all the necessary criteria for Integrity (E) – the prevention of the spread of flame – and Integrity/Insulation (EI) – the prevention of the spread of flame and the provision of a barrier to heat.

The Schueco fire protection range includes single and double Schueco ADS 80 FR doors which can be specified with either a 30-minute integrity or 30/60 minute integrity/insulation rating and, like every system in the range, they meet the performance classification of EN 13501.

In addition to fire doors, Schueco UK also offers aluminium fire protection façade systems (designated FW 50+ BF and FW 60+ BF) and skylight systems with 30- and 60-minute protection, all tested to EN 1364. Also available is a Schueco AWS fire window offering up to 30-minute integrity/insulation (EI).

60| web directory

web directory

www.wilplas.com

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.calorgas.ie

www.1080.co.uk

www.flogasni.com

www.gqaqualifications.com

web directory |61 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 • Fax: 028 9250 1100

www.ridgefence.com

www.willisinsurance.co.uk

62| 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 |63 www.mclarke.co.uk

www.balloohire.com

www.ahcladding.com

www.treemaintenance.com

www.pronetsafetyservices.com

www.swissfacades.com

www.gyproc.ie

www.yeomanshield.com

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

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

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

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

Material prices at October 2014. Prices are exclusive of VAT. Discounts will apply.

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

Building Materials Prices

64 | prices AGGREGATES

CONCRETE BLOCKS

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

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

BRICKS

FINISHED SOFTWOOD

Metric-sized concrete bricks delivered

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. per 100m Parana Pine 20x8 £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 £370.00 £375.00 £335.00 £360.00 £335.00 £335.00 £325.00

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 £45.10 75x19 £67.50 125x19 £109.70 38x25 £41.00 75x25 £50.10 150x25 £98.50 50x38 £76.50 100x38 £116.10 150x38 £91.20 50x50 £91.20 100x50 £144.10 125x50 £163.80 100x75 £199.00 200x75 £453.50 150x100 £366.40

CEMENT Bulk Cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area per tonne Ordinary Portland Cement £136.00 Sulphate Resisting Cement £160.00

Ordinary Portland Cement

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

Quantity Surveying Building Surveying Project Management CDM Planning Supervision

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

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

2440x1220

per tonne £350.00

CEMENT MORTARS In full loads delivered to Central Belfast

per tonne Standard 1 lime mortar £25.00 Tinted mortar ref.

Y4 £44.00 Y15 £51.00 Y135 £43.00 Y91 £53.00 Y10 £50.00

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 £420.00 440x215x100 7Nmm2 £430.00 440x215x100 10Nmm2 £430.00 2 440x300x100 7Nmm £510.00 440x300x100 10Nmm2 £530.00 Concrete brick 15Nmm2 £400.00 440x215x100 Tolite £785.00

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

£281.00 £335.00 £299.00 £8.00 £12.00 £14.00 £9.00 £9.50 £12.50 £26.00

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 £63.00 1:2:4 by volume £77.00 1:3:6 by volume £69.00 2 20 N/mm :20mm aggregate £63.00 25 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £67.00 30 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £69.00

SOFTWOOD FLOORING, SHEETING AND PANELING 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

• Roofing & Cladding • Timber in Construction

STEEL REINFORCEMENT

ROOF SLATES AND TILES Fibre Cement Slates ex-yard Thrutone Thrutone Relief

per 1,000 £1500.00 £1600.00

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

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

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

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

£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 £660.00 £725.00

8 £660.00 £725.00

10 £660.00 £725.00

12 £660.00 £725.00

20 £660.00 £725.00

25 £660.00 £725.00

32 £660.00 £725.00

40 £660.00 £725.00 Mesh Fabric to BS 4483 ex-yard per sheet (one or mixed references)

per sheet BS reference A 98 £30.00

A142 £30.00

A193 £34.00

A252 £38.00

A393 £62.00

B503 £62.00

B785 £77.00 Heavy section steel ex-yard in lots of over 5T

per tonne UC 152x152x23 £860.00 203x203x46 £1085.00 254x254x73 £1215.00 305x305x118 £1040.00 356x368x153 £1230.00 UB 305x165x40 356x127x37 406x140x39 457x152x52 533x210x82

SAWN WHITEWOOD

£1085.00 £1040.00 £1040.00 £1040.00 £1040.00

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

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2014

66| interview

Specify talks to Business Development Manager at McAvoy Group, Peter Browne...

Funding Agency to design and build permanent, off-site constructed schools. My role was to facilitate the design user group process and progress the projects into planning.

The success of these new Permanent Off-site manufactured schools represented a significant opportunity for the off-site construction sector by proving that high quality, well designed, permanent schools could be delivered on time and on budget by means other than traditional construction techniques.

Q: What attracted you to the off-site build company? What do you like about off-site build?

I like the fact that there is enormous potential for growth and innovation in our industry. The Government’s commitment to ongoing investment in education and health means that the level of demand should remain buoyant.

Q: Did you always want to be involved in construction? Was there a family influence?

My career started out on an entirely different path. I didn’t go to university and started out working for a global soft drinks company activating events and merchandising products. I worked my way up to Key Account Management level before embarking on my career with McAvoy.

My father owned a manufacturing company and the lean processes and focus on productivity always interested me. McAvoy’s appeal was the combination of manufacture and construction and the opportunity to leverage more value throughout the process.

Q: Did you have qualifications that relate to your job now?

Not at first, but I was acutely aware that having a recognised professional qualification was extremely important in the construction industry so, with the support of McAvoy, I embarked

on an intensive vocational training programme with the Chartered Institute of Building by completing their Experienced Practitioners Assessment. The course covered key topics in extensive detail and following examinations, assessments and a Professional Review by a panel of my peers I was awarded Corporate Membership status which demonstrates not only my experience, competence and qualifications for my role, but also demonstrates McAvoy’s commitment to the continuous professional development of their staff.

Q: What high profile schemes you have worked on, and what does it feel like to be involved in this type of project?

Most recently I have been involved in the pre-construction project management of a number of Free Schools in the UK. McAvoy were awarded several multimillion pound contracts by the Education

Q: Do you think off site build has now come of age, and is a viable alternative to traditional building techniques?

There have been many academic studies on the features and benefits of off-site construction and it has been widely accepted by the industry that offsite construction offers significant added value to the construction process. Off-site construction offers clients high quality structures, delivered in an efficient and sustainable way with high degrees of cost and programme certainty.

Q: What is the best way to get the off-site build message out there?

By consistently delivering high quality, innovative, architecturally pleasing buildings on time and to budget, that way there is no room for interpretation, the facts will speak for themselves.

Q: Is construction more about technology now, or are building techniques still critical?

Improving technology has a significant part to play but if buildings are not constructed in a safe and efficient way then the opportunity to leverage

value from technological advances will be limited. There is no substitute for skills and experience.

As Building Regulations continue to tighten in order to meet Government emission targets technology will become ever more important, be it by reducing whole life costs, improving sustainability or reducing a building’s carbon footprint.

Off-site construction is very well placed to deliver on these key areas of performance improvement because of the inherent advantages of a highly engineered, manufactured solution.

Q: How do you plan to develop business for McAvoy?

There are many facets to business development but I believe that by educating our current and prospective client base and respective design teams we can ensure that the many advantages of off-site construction are clearly communicated and understood.

We have recently had our Continuous Professional Development presentation accredited by RIBA and have embarked on a programme of CPD delivery across the UK and Ireland.

I’m pleased to say that the feedback has been universally positive and am confident that we will see further opportunities for our business as a result.

Q: What does the future hold for the construction industry in Northern Ireland?

Much has been written about the significant drop in demand and output experienced by the Northern Irish Construction sector but I feel positive about the future. I believe the worst is behind us and although there have been many unfortunate casualties of the downturn those organisations who have made it through the worst of the contraction are the better for it. Many have reviewed and adjusted their business models, developed leaner processes, entered new markets or continued to leverage the substantial heritage and experience of Northern Irish construction companies.