Specify Magazine: Sep/Oct 2018 by Greer publications

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State of the Nation

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For the second year in a row, Newry-based construction company O’Hare & McGovern have taken the ‘Overall Award’ at the Specify CEF Construction Excellence Awards.

The Awards Gala Evening saw the firm win the award for its work on the IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. The superb new 18,000 seater stadium received its official opening the day after the awards took place at the Culloden Hotel. It was built within the confines of the existing Windsor Park which remained fully operational throughout the 98 week construction phase, facilitating over 200,000 spectators at 63 international and domestic fixtures. work involved the It was The no surprise that demolition south and the lack of ofthe government east stands, refurbishment and at Stormont was cited as one of biggest extension of the the north and west issues facing the stands.

construction trade when the CEF recently OHMG designed curved steel published their State of the Trade survey. The concern expressed within the survey as to the urgent need for a fully functioning NI Executive which can take decisions on infrastructure projects large and small is reinforced by the current iteration of the Northern Ireland Executive Departments Procurement Pipeline.

“With only 59 schemes inprocurement at the mid-point in the financial year, there is a crisis point coming within the industry,” said the CEF Managing Director John Armstrong. “When we also consider that the public sector capital budget is at its highest point since 2007 and several highprofile Executive Flagship schemes are not running to their initial financial plan, there should be an abundance of opportunities for contractors to tender for public works. “This is far from the reality however and when added to the

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work at the interface of the North East and North West stands to form a Quadrant. This curved design helped to create a stadium to enhance the viewing experience of the speactators while at the same time mitigating the impact of noise on neighbouring houses outside the stadium. Our congratulations go to the team at OHMG on their success. There was also some cheer from the latest RICS report. Building activity is still rising despite uncertainty in the economy, according to the latest RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and Tughans Northern Ireland Construction Market Survey. Workloads were still rising in the third quarter of the year, according to Northern Ireland surveyors, with only a very uncertainties of Brexit and rising modest slowdown in activity costs across the board, many relative to Q2. we surveyed of the companies now have legitimate concerns as Housebuilding a key to their forwardremained work pipeline. This is incredibly frustrating source of workload growth,given with the cautious optimism activity that many private housebuilding firms had detailed strongly in the survey, rising particularly (a so focused as they are on growth and increasing employment. “From our industry’s perspective it is now very clear, to prevent this looming crisis point, the Secretary of State must take action and we await the legislation that has been promised being published”. The CEF Trade Survey gauged the opinions and confidence of 88 of Northern Ireland’s bestknown construction firms, which represent 50% of Northern Ireland’s construction output, weighted across its constituent parts – general contracting, civil engineering and housebuilding. Industry expert Sean Lavery, Partner at BDO Northern Ireland said: “The performance of our construction industry has largely hinged on hands-on management, mitigation of risk and making smart decisions. The half-year survey demonstrates that many of our construction firms are continuing to take this approach in the face of many challenges. “The availability of funding is a major issue for many, with lending institutions sighting the construction industry as a higher risk. This lack of funding

net balance of +48). Private Commercial activity was also rising relatively robustly (+23), according to the survey.

In contrast however, infrastructure workload growth remained weak (+5), and significantly below the UK average (+17). Looking ahead, Northern Ireland surveyors are upbeat about the prospects for growth, with a net balance of +50% expecting workloads to be higher in a 12-month horizon. Infrastructure spending is still relatively low in Northern Ireland and the latest developments in the ongoing York Road Interchange does not inspire confidence for the big government spending projects. Economist John Simpson looks at combined with the of the Programme for absence Government an NI Executive is a critical area Strategic Investment Boardswith of concern for the industry aspirations for next year and a number of major infrastructure beyond… see pages and 37. projects delayed and 36 departments unable to approve projects that haveBurns funding already allocated. Pat We need to see some clarity Editor going forward in who can make decisions, which will allow these public sector infrastructure projects to commence. “From the respondents there is however a sense of cautious optimism, with many of our businesses confident of growth in their own organisation, specifically around expected increases in recruitment. This is caveated with the challenge in attracting both skilled and unskilled labour to NI, particularly with the competitive rates in salary currently being offered in ROI. It is imperative that we are able to attract workers who will not only work but also live in NI, contributing to the local economy. “However, it is clear that the industry is continuing to be resilient, with the prioritisation of growth a key indicator of this. This survey provides demonstrable proof that our local businesses are confident in their pursuit of success, however for the long term they need support in decision making and funding to continue to grow.” Pat Burns, Editor

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October 2018

contents... 6 DIGEST:

A new local construction company, Seventh Developments, headed by Jamesy Hagan, starts work in Dromore, Co. Down.

7 DIGEST:

Northern Ireland’s award-winning manufacturer of home heating technologies, Grant has been awarded a coveted Which? Best Buy for its low NOx and Blueflame Vortex condensing oil boilers including the Vortex Pro Utility, Vortex Pro Combi and VortexBlue External/Outdoor ranges.

8 DIGEST:

The highly prominent Metro Building, 70,000 sq. ft. of Grade A office space located on Donegall Square South has been purchased by a Private Property Trust. The asset was sold by Lisney and Osborne King. The property sold well in excess of its £21m asking price.

9 DIGEST:

Northern Ireland must adopt the latest standards and technologies in property and construction to help ensure the local economy can remain competitive in a post-Brexit world, the new chairman of RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Northern Ireland has urged.

10 BRETT MARTIN:

One of Northern Ireland’s most successful companies is Brett Martin. Specify talks to Glenn Goodman, Sales Manager from Brett Martin’s Plumbing and Drainage Division about a company that has refused to stand still.

12 DIGEST:

14 CEF / SPECIFY AWARDS:

Heron Brothers take the top prize for Foyle College. Our report features all the winning projects and photos from the night at the Culloden.

30 JOHN SIMPSON:

The new planning guidelines for each of the eleven local authorities, asks them to prepare a development framework for their area over the period to 2035.

33 LOWRY BUILDING AND CIVIL ENGINEERING:

It has been a memorable autumn for the Castlederg based company as they won a CEF award, finished a £6million project for NIFRS and opened a new office in Belfast.

45 DIGEST:

AG has invested heavily in its production line as demand for facing brick doubles amidst a nationwide housing boom. On the back of its most successful year for facing brick sales since the recession,

50 DIGEST:

The search to find the most outstanding local building projects is on following the opening of entries for the RICS Awards 2019, Northern Ireland. The annual RICS Awards celebrate property projects that provide real value to the communities they serve by making them a better place to live, study, work or visit.

61 CEF NEWS:

A Brexit Deal is vital to secure the labour needed to keep Northern Ireland working says the CEF.

66 SPECIFY TALKS TO:

In this edition we talk to Eugene Lynch, Managing Director of the McAvoy Group.

• Tailored energy solution • Full design service • Technical support and guidance • 24-hour emergency call out We provide CPD courses. TO FIND OUT MORE Visit calorgas.ie • Email cpd@calorgas.ie • Contact: 028 9045 5588

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Contents |05

06 DIGEST

SEVENTH DEVELOPMENTS BEGINS WORK ON 21 NEW HOMES IN DROMORE

16 McCue Crafted Fit

Specify talks to Gary Purdy, Operations Director, McCue Crafted Fit

CEF Awards

74 Interview

Specify talks to Eugene Lynch, Managing Director of The McAvoy Group

page 14

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06| 06

digest digest

SEVENTH DEVELOPMENTS PRIME OFFICE BUILDING Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year BEGINS WORK ON 21 NEW IN DERRY-LONDONDERRY growthIN plan in UK and Ireland. HOMES DROMORE COMES TO THE MARKET NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

Newtownabbey-based M&E services company, Harvey Group, has acquired Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Solmatix Renewables in a move the companies say will transform the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland and act as a springboard for further expansion into theBrothers, multi- Jamesy Gary Ferris, Close million UK and Ireland Hagan +pound Gary Ferris Rowellane renewable Constructionenergy markets. The acquisition, for an undisclosed Developments, sum, will bring to 110 Seventh athenew local home number of people employed building company, directly by the Harvey Group in has started onBritain. a Northern Irelandwork and Great £2.5million development With a turnover of £30 million in Dromore that will and over 35 80 staff, Harvey create jobs andGroup 21 has over 30 years’ experience new homes. in the design, installation and maintenance of building Founded by Jamesy Hagan,services who has over 14 every years of experience in new within conceivable kind of development andGB sales, building typeconstruction throughout NI, Seventh specialises and RoI,Developments including Pharmaceutical/ inCleanrooms, building homes that appeal Laboratories, to Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

Leading offsite construction specialist, Western Building Systems has gained a place on Fusion21’s Modular Building Framework following an £175 million expansion of the framework.

Nick Verburg, Procurement and Supply Chain Manager at Fusion21 production of Randox’s pioneering said: “Modular off-site construction medical diagnostic products and will is an innovative and cost-effective wayinclude to deliver buildingsadministrative for the also associated 21st century, we are are the delighted functions. Theand works first to have expanded this flexible phase of a major capital expenditure procurement solution in response project by Randox to develop the to market demand and member former Massereene Army Barracks feedback. ” into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a futuristic R&D manufacturing Western’s MD,and Declan McCloskey commented: “We are delighted to facility. The award-winning, have securedbiotechnology a place on Fusion21’s international firm, Modular Building framework. unveiled its plans for an innovative Fusion21 has established a sterling hub on the within 43 acrethe siteindustry earlier due this reputation year. to the consistently high standards Welcoming announcement, maintained bythe its members project after project andDirector we are very much Damien Hughes, of TAL looking commented: forward to being Limited “We part are of it.” “At Western we have been delighted to have beenlong awarded

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

beneficial. From my perspective, having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to A prime office building acquire otherwise. on Strand Road in Derry“Harvey Group and Solmatix Londonderry has come share similar values, by which I mean to the market, with offers our commitmentin to the professionalism, expected region of our desire to deliver our services to £5.25m. the very highest standards, and the Timber Quay fully let a strong importance weisplace on to treating our tenant line up which includes AXA, customers, our suppliers and our staff Fujitsu, Click Energy, Kainos and ”Invest with courtesy and consideration. Richard Bell, the founder and managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

as great news for Solmatix, its customers, suppliers and staff. “In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in NI with a total real terms, beingrent partofof£644,190 this largerper annum. organisation willis give us access to A The property a modern Grade enhanced technical skills, financial office space designed for professional resources purchasing companiesand seeking highly power. quality office accommodation. The building Ultimately I believe thisentire will lead extends c. 57,000 ft with 100 on to greatertogrowth andsqinvestment site carour parking spaces.as well as within operations, It is currently owned by a Northern more jobs and job security. It’s a Irish property company. win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

this contract with Randox, one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic and exciting businesses on a local and global level. Through the quality of our work and the dedication and professionalism of our team TAL has steadily grown over the last 34 years and this contract award reinforces the strength of our expertise in the healthcare sector.” The project will be delivered to BIM level 2 in partnership with the design team Ostick and Williams Architects, Raineyas& aBest, advocates of frameworks means Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller of streamlining the procurement process forEngineers large scaleand projects. Consulting Charles “Frameworks are easier to use, reduce Hutchison Consulting. transaction costs and encourage Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative diagnostics, to improve manufacturing efficiency to export high-value healthcare capabilities to world markets. This state-of-the-art premises will become a centre of cutting-edge research, development and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and heart disease. We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through newimprovement job creation. within We very continuous much look forward to working with long-term relationships. Therefore, theyon arethis much better valuetofordeliver money TAL initial contract longhigh term compared to traditional the quality infrastructure we procurement models. require. ”

Western appointed to £400 Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction million framework contract at Randox Science Park

Those eligible for the framework will now be able to avail of Western’s WItH a reputation significant experience infor the delivery excellence in constructing high of both temporary or permanent buildingsprojects, within thetAL health, leisure quality Limited and been education sectorsa which spans has awarded significant 35 years. All buildingsbywithin the contract (£3.1m) global framework are designed to be medical diagnostics company compliant with building regulations Randox. and present lower carbon emissions Thistraditional initial contract than builds.is for the construction of a new facility for

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GRANT ACHIEVES DOUBLE Harvey Group acquires Solmatix RECOGNITION as part of 5 year growth LEADING plan in UK and Ireland. BODY WHICH? FROM CONSUMER NI M&E services Northern Ireland’s award-winning Newtownabbey-based manufacturer of home M&E services company, heating technologies, Harvey Group, has acquired Grant has beenrenewable awarded a Northern covetedIreland Which? Best energy Solmatix Buy for specialists, its low NOx Renewables in a move the and Blueflame Vortex companies sayoil willboilers transform condensing including theenergy Vortex the renewable sector Pro Utility, Vortex Proact in Northern Ireland and Combi and VortexBlue as a springboard for further External/Outdoor expansion into the multiranges. million pound UK and Ireland renewable energy markets. Grant is the only oil boiler The acquisition, for such an an manufacturer to achieve undisclosed sum, willtwo bring to 110 accomplishment over consecutive the This number of people places employed years. endorsement Grant ondirectly a footing some of by equivalent the HarveytoGroup in the world’s best known appliance Northern Ireland home and Great Britain. brands in the UK and Ireland With a turnover of £30 million and over 80 staff, Harvey Group has over 30 years’ experience in the design, installation and maintenance of building services within every conceivable kind of building type throughout NI, GB and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ ACleanrooms, protected bird species Laboratories, isEducation, thriving at one and of Government Northern Ireland’s major Healthcare . Richard and Norahquarry a Solmatix year after Anne Bellsites founded owners invested £100k in Renewables in 2008, and since then

company acquires renewable energy specialists customer service.”

“As part of such a competitive market, being the only oil boiler manufacturer to receive a Which? Best Buy accolade for two successive years is what truly sets us apart and bolsters our position at the forefront of the home heating industry in both the UK and Ireland,” said Stephen.

Grant has been providing homes throughout Northern Ireland with innovative heating technologies for over 40 years and has an extensive product portfolio including the popular range of Vortex condensing Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth accomplishment for us Harvey that not only oil boilers and the VortexAir Hybrid Booth (Financial Controller, Group). demonstrates the excellent standard and Aerona3 air source heat pump as great newsprovides for Solmatix, beneficial. From my perspective, that our products champion, but range which a moreits customers, suppliers andhome staff. heating having as part Harvey also theSolmatix great service andofattention environmentally-friendly to detailgives provided by the “In many a case a solution that respects, can help it’s to reduce Group us a level of Grant expertise team, from initial product household’s carbon of ‘business as usual’.footprint. However, in that would have taken us research years to and development, right through to real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our martins in the place; including installation of staff more jobs andcountry. job security. It’s a customers, our the suppliers and our AG’s biodiversity team has good also an extraction plant, which created win-win relationship that’s with courtesy and consideration.” named Beeorganisation, as its headline artificial banks, the perfect for ourthe whole as Richard Bell,making the founder and species of the year after discovering home for these rare birds, usually well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix concentrations of the solitary mining found near rivers and streams. Ireland. Renewables acquisition bee. The“ team consulted with the With parts ofdescribed the plantthe sectioned NIEA on their plans to champion this off during breeding season to allow breed, creating micro habitats suitable the birds to reproduce undisturbed, for these important pollinators to the RSPB NI has named it as one of thrive at its Fivemiletown site. the most important colonies for sand

Concrete quarry named nationally important Sand Martin colony a biodiversity project to nurture wildlife on site.

The Pomeroy site of leading Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park GB construction market growth production of Randox’s pioneering this contract with Randox, one of prompts Director at Randox commented: “The medical diagnostic products and will Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science investment also by Garage include associated administrative Doors and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create

Garage Doors in Ballymena is recruiting 17 additional staff to help deliver growing sales across Great Britain.

WItH a reputation for The family business is a leading high excellence in constructing manufacturer of bespoke garage doors quality projects, tAL Limited and expecting its sales to grow by has isbeen awarded a significant 50 per cent over the next three years contract (£3.1m) by global due to a buoyant UK construction medical diagnostics company sector. Randox. This initial contract is for the Peter Speaking about the investment, Doherty, Managing Director, construction of a new facilityGarage for Door Systems’, said: “Our customer

functions. The works are the first and global level. Through the quality base within both phase of a major capital expenditure of our work and the the dedication and commercial project by Randox to develop the professionalism of our team TAL has and residential former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 sectors is years developing into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a and this contract award reinforces and we aim to futuristic R&D and manufacturing the strength of our expertise in the facility. The award-winning, healthcare sector.” continue to build on the valuable international biotechnology firm, The project will be delivered links established unveiled its plans for an innovative to BIM level 2 in partnership with distributors hub on the 43 acre site earlier this with the design teaminOstick Great and Britain year. Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, to further expand our Welcoming the announcement, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller share. Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Consulting Engineersmarket and Charles Limited “We are Doors and Hutchison Consulting. Peter commented: Doherty, MD, Garage “Invest Northern delighted to have been awarded Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Bill Montgomery, Invert NI Ireland’s support

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innovative diagnostics, to improve will enable us to recruit new staff manufacturing efficiency across a range of roles in to theexport high-value healthcare capabilities to business, from production operatives world markets. through to designThis andstate-of-the-art sales. As part of our longer growth strategy, premises will term become a centre of we will also enhance automated cutting-edge research,our development production capabilities, increase our and diagnostic manufacture, covering workspace and further develop our conditions product line.such ” as cancer, stroke and heart disease. We will also provide a significant boostsupplies to the alocal economy Garage Doors range of garage external steel throughdoors new and job creation. We very access doorsforward for the to domestic much look workingand with professional and hastoandeliver TAL on this markets initial contract extensive showroom at its premises the high quality infrastructure we in Wakehurst Industrial Estate, require.” Ballymena

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

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International Construction Management Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year Conference growth plan in Takes UK andPlace Ireland.in Belfast

The Association ofNI Researchers M&E services in Construction Management (ARCOM) Newtownabbey-based held international M&E their services company, conference inhas Belfast on Harvey Group, acquired

3-5 September 2018.

Sustainability Paper’ to Nina KochOrvad for her work on ‘Murmuration as metaphor for sustainable innovation processes’, and the ‘Best International Paper’ to Tara Burke, Lloyd Scott and Duga Ewuga for their work on ‘The

impact of BREXIT on cross-border trade by the construction sector in Ireland’. The successful event was attended by over 200 delegates. For further details on ARCOM, visit www.arcom.ac.uk.

company acquires renewable energy specialists As part of the awards ceremony,

the company has Chair grownoftothe achieve Gerard Graham, CIOB a Belfast Hub presented the CIOB turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff sponsoredfrom bestits ‘Innovation and operating Nutt’s Corner premises. Northern Ireland renewable As a result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix will continue to operate as an Renewables in a move the autonomous and independent companies say will transform company within Harvey Group the renewable energy sector Brian Harvey, managing director in Northern Ireland and act of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboard for further a perfect fit between the two expansion into the multiorganisations. million pound UK and Ireland “We have been planning to renewable energy markets. Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). for some time, either organically undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition of an the number of people employed customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as partHub, of Harvey Gerard Graham, Chair of the CIOB Belfast Hub, Gerard Graham, Chair of the CIOB Belfast established player. Having worked directly by the Harvey Group in “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Nina Koch-Orvad winner of the best ‘Innovation with Tara Burke, Lloyd Scott and Duga Ewuga, winners with Solmatix Renewables on Northern Ireland and Great Britain. of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to andWith Sustainability Paper’. of the ‘Best International Paper’. a number of contracts, we’d a turnover of £30 million real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. always been impressed with and over 80 staff, Harvey Group organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix their engineering rigour and has over 30 years’ experience enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean professionalism. In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, to be a natural synergy between maintenance of building services Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to our two companies in terms of within every conceivable kind of forgreater mixed use facilities, it a has sought planning permission for the process. The Expressions of to growth and making investment the very highest standards, and the Expressions of Interest what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB supremely unique opportunity. The a second building, andon an treating impressive Interest exercise will run until 12 noon importance are being sought from within our operations, as well as we place our approached Richard Bell about a and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ team at Lisney in Belfast is delighted river frontage, we believe the site is on 9 November 2018. developers to clarify the more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff year ago to float the idea of our Cleanrooms, Laboratories, to partner with Department for ideally placed to deliver lasting social Announcing the exercise, private sector’s appetite win-win relationship good with courtesy and consideration. ” companies coming together, but only Education, Government and Communities on thisthat’s very exciting and economic benefits for the City. for investment in the Fort Damian Mulholland, Director of for our that whole organisation, as a huge Richard Bell, the founder and if there was a good fit. After careful Healthcare . Richard and Norahproject will ultimately play We look forward to receiving suitably the Department’s North West George site in Derry/ well as the the regeneration economy of Northern managing ofto Solmatix role in of the area. ambitious director proposals realise that Development we Office the consideration bothat agreed Anne Bell founded Solmatix Londonderry. At this initial stage, we are certainly potential.” described the acquisition Department forindeed Communities said: Ireland. “ Renewables that this would be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then expecting Expressions of Interest In the case of a positive response, the “With the remediation of Fort The 15 acre Fort George site owned from potential investors within the UK Department will then proceed with George underway, the Department by the Department for Communities and Ireland, but I would also expect a full marketing exercise to select a is now moving to test the nature (DfC) has received outline planning enquiries from further afield.” purchaser. and scale of market interest in the permission. The remediation of the All interested parties should contact Andrew Gawley, Director, Lisney site. Given its strategic location site is currently underway and will be Lisney as follows:said: “Planning proposals for this 6.2 adjacent to the A2, for which DfI has completed by the end of the year. Andrew Gawley hectare riverfront site include over published road upgrade proposals, The Department has appointed the Email: agawley@lisney.com 885,000 sq. ft. of gross floor space the presence of Catalyst Inc, which property consultants Lisney to manage production of Randox’s pioneering this contract with Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The

Expressions of Interest sought for Fort George site

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative functions. The works are the first phase of a major capital expenditure project by Randox to develop the former Massereene Army Barracks into ‘RandoxinScience Park’ –a Developed 2003, the nine-storey futuristic R&D and manufacturing building boasts a strong line up of facility. award-winning, tenantsThe including Capita, Johnston Publishing and Yell, in addition to two international biotechnology firm, levels of its underground parking to unveiled plans for ancar innovative accommodate 50 cars. hub on the 43 acre site earlier this Nicky Finnieston, Investment Director year. at Lisney, commented: Welcoming the announcement, “This deal rounds off a very busy Damien Director TAL summerHughes, period for us andofthe price Limited areresult for achievedcommented: represents a“We great our client.to The office sector in Belfast delighted have been awarded

Northern Ireland’s most dynamic and exciting businesses on a local and global level. Through the quality of our work and the dedication and professionalism of our team TAL has steadily grown over the last 34 years and this contract award reinforces presents the strength of our expertise in the a great healthcare sector.” opportunity forThe investors project will be delivered andBIM as such, to level 2 in partnership the level of with the design team Ostick and competitive Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, demand for Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller this asset Consulting was not Engineers and Charles Hutchison surprising.”Consulting. Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative diagnostics, to improve manufacturing efficiency to export high-value healthcare capabilities to world markets. This state-of-the-art premises will become a centre of cutting-edge research, development and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and heart disease. We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

BELFAST’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS OFFICE BUILDING SOLD IN THE LARGEST DEAL OF THE YEAR The highly prominent Metro Building, 70,000 WItH a reputation for sq. ft. of Grade A office excellence in constructing high space located on quality projects, tAL Limited Donegall Square South has awarded a significant hasbeen been purchased by a Private Property Trust. contract (£3.1m) by global The asset was sold by medical diagnostics company Lisney and Osborne Randox. King. The property sold This initial contract is for the well in excess of its £21m construction of a new facility for asking price.

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Property will bring Harvey Groupstandards acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year growth plan in UKadvantage and Ireland. competitive in NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists attracting inward investors Newtownabbey-based M&E services company, Harvey Group, has acquired Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Solmatix Renewables in a move the companies say will transform the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland and act as a springboard for further expansion into the multimillion pound UK and Ireland renewable energy markets. The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 the number of people employed directly by the Harvey Group in Northern Ireland and Great Britain. With a turnover of £30 million and over 80 staff, Harvey Group has over 30 years’ experience in the design, installation and maintenance of building services within every conceivable kind of building type throughout NI, GB and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government Northern Ireland and must adopt the and NorahHealthcare . Richard latest standards and Anne Bell founded Solmatix technologies in and property Renewables in 2008, since then

and construction to help ensure the local economy can remain competitive in a postBrexit world, the new chairman of RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Northern Ireland has urged.

the company has grown to achieve a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff operating from its Nutt’s Corner premises. As a result of the deal, Solmatix will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations. “We have been planning to Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). for some time, either organically as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition of an customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey established player. Having worked “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Solmatix Renewables on of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. always been impressed with organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix their engineering rigour and enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean professionalism. In fact, there seemed resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, to be a natural synergy between Susan Mason, Acting Director, NortherntoIreland, Ultimately Royal Institution of Chartered I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services our two companies in terms of Surveyors (RICS) with new RICS chairman Brian Henning. to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the what we do and how we do it. I within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our approached Richard Bell about a more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff year ago to float the idea of our win-win relationship that’s international measurement stakeholders and media. “PropTech, including the usegood of with courtesylevel. andThe consideration. ” companies coming together, but only provides theBell, kindthe of founder consistency RICS, which a remit to actcareful in Building Information Modelling for our whole organisation, as (BIM), Richard and if there was has a good fit. After and accurate reporting of costs that the public interest through its Royal provides theeconomy opportunity for more well as the of Northern managing director of Solmatix consideration we both agreed inward investors increasingly demand, Charter, has over 3,000 members cost-effective and efficient processes Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that this would indeed be mutually and government projects need to in Northern Ireland including those in projects. To ensure value for money assess the economic viability of working across the land, property and competitiveness in our economy, projects and maximising their impact. and construction industries as well as we need to see these technologies students. implemented to their full potential in “Our message to government Northern Ireland,” he added. departments, the construction sector Mr Henning pointed to a significant and other stakeholders is very clear. gap in private sector investment in Mr Henning said he was pleased Widespread adoption of ICMS infrastructure in Northern Ireland to take on his new position at a production pioneering this contract with Randox,for one of Director attime Randox commented: “The provides the opportunity significant and said thatofit Randox’s needed to be urgently challenging for the land, property competitive advantage. ” dynamic addressed. and construction sectors in Northern medical diagnostic products and will Northern Ireland’s most development of Randox Science Ireland. also include associated administrative and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create RICS celebrates 150th anniversary He said that one way of “As a profession, we aretomaking functions. The works arethe the first and global level. its Through the quality innovative diagnostics, improve this year and Mr Henning said it construction industry making strides in creating a more diverse and phase of a major capital expenditure of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export was an opportunity for those in the Northern Ireland more attractive to inclusive industry. We are working project by Randox to develop the professionalism of our has high-value healthcare capabilities surveying profession to team look TAL to the international investors was to adopt to inspire the next generation andtoa former(International Massereene Construction Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. Thislooking state-of-the-art future. ICMS continued focus on at ways into ‘Randox Science Park’Currently, –a and this contract award reinforces premises will become centre of Measurement Standards). to attract and retain thea best talent He that wider in and ICMS is not centrally adopted in remains a keyresearch, priority indevelopment Northern futuristic R&D and manufacturing the said strength of ourtraining expertise in the cutting-edge use of PropTech, refers to all Northern and its usage in the Ireland. facility. TheIreland award-winning, healthcare sector.which ” and diagnostic manufacture, covering aspects of innovation how they private sectorbiotechnology is patchy. “We’re alsosuch committed to giving international firm, The project will beand delivered conditions as cancer, stroke and impact the built environment, would back to the communities in which we unveiled its plans for an innovative to BIM level 2 in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a He explained: “ICMS is used effectively prepare local professionals for the operate and are pleased that as part hub on the 43ofacre earlier this with the design significant boost to the local economy challenges ahead.team Ostick and in other parts the site world to provide of our 150th anniversary celebrations year. global consistency in the Williams Architects, Raineyglobal & Best, through new job creation. very “We are seeing significant greater we are raising funds for the We Pledge Welcomingdefinition, the announcement, Doran Consulting, & Waller much look forward to working with changes in terms ofDelap the usage classification, measurement, 150 campaign in partnership with of technology in property analysis presentation LandAid to support young people Damienand Hughes, Directorofof TAL Consulting Engineers and and Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver construction and we need to keep accurate construction“We costsare at a at of quality homelessness in Northern Limited commented: Hutchison Consulting. therisk high infrastructure we pace in Northern Ireland. project, national or Ireland. delightedregional, to havestate beenorawarded Drwith Peterthem FitzGerald, Managing require.””

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park

Brian Henning FRICS, who takes on the prestigious role from Andy Tough FRICS, says that with political stasis in the absence of a Northern Ireland Executive and with challenges for the economy associated with Brexit, it is all the more important for the local property and construction sectors to WItH a reputation equip themselves for thefor future. excellence in constructing high Mr Henning is a highly experienced quality projects, tAL Limited property asset has beendevelopment awarded aand significant management directorby with experience contract (£3.1m) global across the UK and Ireland. During medical company his time indiagnostics office, Mr Henning will Randox. lead the RICS Northern Ireland This and initial contractthe is for the Board represent organisation locally in engagement members, construction of a newwith facility for

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20/08/2014 16:45

10| Brett Martin

UK MANUFACTURER’S 60 YEARS OF SUCCESS FOUNDED ON INNOVATION AND CUSTOMER-CENTRIC APPROACH

One of Northern Ireland’s most successful and respected businesses, Newtownabbey-based manufacturer Brett Martin, has always stayed one step ahead through innovation and listening to its loyal customer base. The company continues to grow and thrive, with a tradition of products that are synonymous with quality, value and service. Glenn Goodman, Sales Manager from Brett Martin’s Plumbing and Drainage division, talks to Specify about a company that has refused to stand still against an everchanging industry and remains the premier provider of Underground, Rainwater and Soil & Waste above and below ground drainage systems.

Established in 1958, the company’s Northern Ireland heritage is one of its strongest facets, with the company taking great pride in seeing its products used on landmark buildings across Belfast, including the Titanic Signature Building, The MAC arts venue, Belfast Sewers project and latterly Victoria Square, to name but a few. With a 1,000-strong workforce across the UK, the company also exports to more than 70 countries and has a yearly turnover in excess of £152 million. Brett Martin remains on the company’s original site in Newtownabbey, albeit the facility now covers some 36 acres with plans to take this up to 50 acres. It’s here that Brett Martin innovates, Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Brett Martin| 11 to provide customers with the high quality service and the development of products they have come to expect.” This resource for technical support, product quality, innovation and testing has around 10 technical engineers, along with research and development staff and quality specialists. This allows the company to respond with agility to market demands. As a company, Brett Martin is very conscious of its environmental responsibilities and is committed to reducing its carbon footprint with renewable resources. A 100m tall wind turbine at the head office and main manufacturing facility in Co. Antrim represents an investment of over £2m and provides 11% of the company’s annual power requirements.

Glenn Goodman - Sales Manager Michael Clarke - Sales Representative Joe Doyle - Divisional Director Bob King – Sales Representative Kerry Murphy – Sales Representative Stephen Cummings – Sales Representative designs and manufactures its range of underground drainage and plumbing systems, rainwater goods and roofing products for the local market. “We are in a unique position of fully understanding the requirements of building regulations and are able to provide a responsive service to customers,” said Glenn Goodman. “The combination of customer focus and a comprehensive range of products, which are certified and fully compliant, has put us in a unique position of being able to cater to any requirement or specification.”

commitment to producing worldclass products, all products are manufactured to BS EN 9001:2015 and the appropriate industry standards, and Building Regulations. Centre for Innovation “Our customers are always looking for new solutions, which is one of the reasons why we have invested £2m in a dedicated Centre for Innovation,” Glenn Goodman added. “It enables us

The company refuses to stand still, with its plumbing and drainage portfolio continuing to evolve and meet the demands of the marketplace. Recent innovations include the multi access 315mm Access Chamber Assembly; popular Anthracite Grey Rainwater Range (available in both gloss and cast iron style finish) and the Deepstyle 170 high capacity rainwater system. It also features the exceptional loading capability of the easy-to-fit 50kN1 450mm Lids and Frames and StormCrate rainwater attenuation crates. Testament to the company’s Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Solar Farm In addition, Brett Martin’s recent investment in a 6.4MWp (Megawattspeak) solar farm provides enough clean solar energy to power the equivalent of over 1,600 homes, providing approximately 14% of the company’s annual electricity demand. The solar installation, built on over 35 acres of locally-owned farmland just over a mile away from the Mallusk factory, provides an estimated saving of 3,700 tonnes of carbon emissions each year, equal to taking nearly 1,800 cars off the road. The solar installation was developed and constructed alongside an in-depth biodiversity management plan, detailing planting measures designed to support local wildlife. It included seeding choices specifically designed to foster new insect and bird species, strengthening the biodiversity of the local area and providing

significant environmental benefits to the surrounding farmland. The installation was successfully connected in March 2018. Renewable energy now provides over a quarter of Brett Martin’s total energy consumption at the company’s head office and main manufacturing facility in Co. Antrim. Geoff Stewart, Brett Martin Financial Director, said: “Sustainable initiatives such as this are critical to helping us maintain our competitive edge in a global marketplace where over 50% of our sales are exported. We were one of the first local manufacturers to install a wind turbine in 2011, delivering 11% of our energy costs. The solar farm more than doubles our renewable footprint and highlights our commitment to environmentallysensitive manufacturing practices. We are very grateful to the many local interest groups, statutory bodies and government agencies which provided help and assistance as we progressed the project to completion.” Brett Martin is known locally for drainage, but is also renowned for plastic products for construction, fabrication, print and display for global distribution. The company is the largest single site polycarbonate extruder in Europe. Recent projects have included London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Park; Belfast Waterfront Hall; the refurbishment of Anfield Stadium and South Stand at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium. The company has dedicated teams of sales, service and technical support professionals to provide one-onone product and service assistance for each market. Round-the-clock manufacturing, a stock holding, along with a dedicated distribution fleet ensures Brett Martin can operate a delivery promise of five days in Ireland.

12|

digest

RICS President: The time is now to future-proof Northern Ireland’s built environment

Toronto-based RICS President, John Hughes, centre, visited Belfast recently to meet with RICS members, university representatives, business people and others. As part of his visit, the toured the Tropical Ravine in Botanic Gardens, which was the Project of the Year in the RICS Awards, 2018. He is pictured with Brian Henning, left, Chairman of RICS Northern Ireland, and Martin Doherty, Project Manager at Belfast City Council.

Toronto-based RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) President, John Hughes FRICS recently met RICS professionals in Belfast and discussed the positive impact the profession has had on Northern Ireland society over the last 150 years, including how members can continue to add value to the built environment. The visit included a tour of the Tropical Ravine in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, which won Project of the Year at the RICS Awards, Northern Ireland 2018. He also met with RICS members and discussed property market issues with senior professionals in the afternoon at an event in Belfast

City Hall entitled ‘Shaping Cities of the Future’. Brian Henning, Chairman of RICS in Northern Ireland, commented: “We are delighted to welcome John Hughes to Northern Ireland as part of his Presidential Tour of the UK. In his discussions with members, John is bringing to the forefront the many challenges the profession faces as working practices and society progresses. As we celebrate 150 years of RICS, it is important that we strive to attract new, diverse talent while frequently reviewing how we fit our traditional professional service values into a rapidly evolving new world. In doing this, we help ensure continued confidence, ethics, professional integrity and client and consumer trust in our professional advice.” Each of the President’s visits to RICS offices across the UK will also provide a part of the fact-finding Future of the

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Profession research which will help the organisation understand how these challenges are reshaping firms, services and professional practices, and how the profession is adapting to new technologies. Speaking in Belfast, RICS President, John Hughes FRICS, said: “Technological advances in AI, big data computing and blockchain are set to radically change the way we develop land and manage property in our cities. These innovations are disrupting long established business models and have already encouraged a variety of tech firms into the property industry, such as Google’s smart city development in Toronto and Airbnb’s growing global dominance over the hospitality industry. “Thanks to climate change, around the world our cities are becoming much hotter, wetter and wilder places. The uncharacteristically warm weather

which many people in Northern Ireland enjoyed this summer is likely to repeat itself in the coming years. But a long-term heat increase could have severe implications for existing infrastructure in cities, typically designed for cooler weather. “Surveyors work right across the life-cycle of the built environment; developing land, constructing buildings, managing properties, and planning the supporting infrastructure. But these new forces are reshaping how we use the built environment, requiring a dynamic response from Chartered Surveyors, as well as clients, policy makers, government and regulators.” Speaking at the event in Belfast City Hall, Mr Hughes gave an update on the future role of RICS in leading the profession with a focus on the importance of infrastructure, technology, sustainable investment and international standards.

Hays|13

Developing the diverse workforce of the future By Mark Wade, Hays NI Across the UK and beyond, the theme of diversity and equality in the workplace is becoming an increasingly hot topic. In Hays’ recently published Diversity & Inclusion Report 2018 only 38% of UK workers surveyed said their organisation is proactive in its effort to source diverse candidates for roles, which shows how much work there is still to do. In certain sectors of the economy this lack of diversity is more pronounced than others and we believe this is potentially holding a lot of companies back from unlocking the full potential of their talent. Looking specifically at the construction industry, which we know is historically male dominated, only 12% of the workforce is made up of female employees. But some employers are now working hard to buck the trend and change that statistic. Award-winning UK construction, refurbishment and fit out contractor, Gilbert-Ash is continually focused on pushing boundaries and breaking the glass ceiling for women. At present, women make up 21% of its workforce. Coupled with an employee retention rate of 87%, this showcases GilbertAsh’s dedication and commitment to its employees and their welfare. Gilbert-Ash works in 43 countries across the globe, using innovative techniques to create landmark buildings of the future. The company was recently awarded Contractor of the Year 2018 at the Construction News awards, demonstrating the outstanding quality of craftsmanship produced. Gilbert-Ash firmly believes that possessing a richly diverse and dynamic workforce, working together as one, is the key to success. GilbertAsh possesses a strong ethos of the importance of diversity and equality that runs throughout the entirety of the company. As an employee-owned company, it prides itself on instilling a family-orientated workplace culture, creating a supportive working and learning environment. While the proportion of women employed with Gilbert-Ash is further advanced than the overall construction industry, it is constantly striving to increase this number and attract more women to the sector. The company has adopted several gender diversity initiatives to encourage women to join, such as helping employees transition back into the workplace after starting

Mark Wade and Ray Hutchinson a family. It also offers flexible working hours, an employee healthcare plan, and an Employers For Childcare voucher scheme. The company works with partners to help implement diversity and is a key sponsor for Women’stec, the largest quality provider of training for women in non-traditional skills in Northern Ireland. Through partnering with Women’stec, Gilbert-Ash supports the provision of valuable services to the overall construction industry, providing much needed skills, alongside giving women the confidence to thrive in an industry which typically is male-dominated. It supports various programmes with Women’stec, including S.P.E.C. (Supporting People, Empowering Communities) working with communities in North Belfast and P.O.P. (Promoting Opportunities Programme) which encourages young girls from the ages of 13 to 24 to consider a career in construction. Maria Bradley, HR Manager at GilbertAsh, works closely with Women’stec on projects with primary schools across Northern Ireland, introducing young pupils to the world of construction. Maria said: “At GilbertAsh, we are committed to building a strong workforce, and we work closely with partners such as Women’stec to promote and encourage diversity as we recognise the value this adds

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to the company. As a sponsor of Women’stec, we recognise our role leading gender equality across the industry. We are continually seeking to increase diversity across our workforce and promote career opportunities for women in the construction sector.” Women in Construction The company often uses live sites to showcase what a career in construction has to offer. Earlier this year, it coordinated a site tour of the AC Marriott Hotel Belfast for Women’stec, along with CITB’s Women in Construction Network. The tour took place on International Women’s Day, highlighting the variety of roles fulfilled by women within Gilbert-Ash and open to those throughout the construction industry. Gilbert-Ash Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson said: “At Gilbert-Ash, we believe in gender diversity and equality across all levels of our organisation. While we work in a historically male dominated industry, there is a wealth of opportunities for women within construction, allowing all to unlock their potential through construction. We pride ourselves on staying ahead within the industry, offering women within our workforce an enriching career path, complete with support and guidance across the team.” Ray is committed to workforce

diversity, not only within Gilbert-Ash, but throughout the construction industry, as President of the Construction Employers Federation. In 2017, Ray also joined a group of business champions to work with Women in Business, with an aim to increase gender diversity in Northern Ireland. From this, a working-group was formed to create a Charter, with the purpose to review gender diversity challenges and set targets for improvement. Research for Hays Diversity & Inclusion report showed that instigating this sort of culture change can only happen from the top down and requires proactive leadership from directors and senior managers. This can start by assessing whether there are any unfair barriers to career progression within your organization and if there are, consider what inclusive progression policies could be implemented and start the discussion with your team. Gilbert-Ash has recognised that to reach full potential it must benefit from the rich variety of talents and abilities of all its employees. A balanced workforce benefits everyone from clients and subcontractors, to the overall workplace culture. For more information contact Hays on 028 9044 6900

FOYLE COLLEGE E B R I N GT O N P R I M A R Y S C H O O L & N U R S E R Y

“

Heron Bros is incredibly proud to receive the Top Construction Excellence Award for our marvellous Foyle College and Ebrington PS at the CEF Awards. This award is a testament to our best-practice project delivery approach. It truly was a team effort. Our fantastic project team were dedicated to delivering the campus to the highest standards to allow staff and students to thrive for years to come.

”

DELIVERING EDUCATION FA C I L I T I E S W H I C H SHAPE FUTURE GENERATIONS

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Heron Bros take top prize for Foyle College

Congratulations to all the winners of the CEF / SPECIFY Construction Excellence Awards

ames Greer, publisher of Specify Magazine, expressed his thanks to all the entrants who took part in the 19th year of the competition which has attracted the highest entry ever. He explained that being part of the event is a positive endorsement for any company whether they win, are highly commended or attend as a finalist: “Whether you are a category winner or highly commended, the CEF/Specify Awards are fundamentally about achievement, recognition and endorsement. “To a successful company it is a celebration of outstanding achievement that tells the world ‘you are the best in your field’. To your clients and suppliers it is about business endorsement – it is the ultimate recognition of peer achievement and the promotion of your brand. “We pride ourselves on being a partner with the CEF in the Construction Excellence Awards which, as well as being a fantastic event, recognise outstanding achievement in our market and we are proud to help to acknowledge the exceptional work that is completed each year.”

Principal Sponsor

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CATEGORY

PRIVATE HOUSING AWARD

CARROWREAGH ROAD, DUNDONALD

HOMES FOR LIVING Millreagh is a private residential development in Dundonald that commenced in 2006 with an estimated completion of late 2019. It is split between two developers of which Antrim Construction Company Limited has 178 dwellings. Millreagh rests at the bottom of the Craigantlet Hills and borders the busy A20 Newtownards/Belfast carriageway. It was therefore important from the outset to maintain the benefits of this rural setting while providing an ideal location for commuters. The existing hedge lines and trees are retained and enhanced creating a natural buffer from main roads which in turn reduces traffic noise, increases privacy and softens the landscape. Challenging gradients are overcome with the use of laser accurate shelving supported by planted, environmentally sympathetic, walling. Controlled outlet systems provide natural run offs for rainwater into the adjacent river course with no impact on wildlife. Railway sleepers replace more commonly used concrete walling, with natural bark adding warmth to every property. Millreagh has 40 different house types. Open spaces, one of archaeological interest, prevents Millreagh becoming just another maze of houses. Stone used to form temporary roads is recycled and the inclusion of triple glazing and low voltage LED lighting are a few of the features that reduce running costs. Improvement works to existing infrastructure, including a filter lane and traffic light system, is installed on the main A20 carriageway which prevents congestion. It’s reassuring to see so many experienced home buyers choosing Millreagh as their preferred location.

New homes at Millreagh benefit from the NHBC structural warranty scheme. For the past 6 years the Site Manager has been recognised as one of the top quality award winners in Northern Ireland. Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

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David Meade entertaining the Audience

John Armstrong address the guests Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Grayson|29

Grayson GB Ltd, belfast’s choice for construction consumables As one of Belfast’s suppliers of choice for construction consumables Grayson (GB) Ltd really knows how to deliver on service and price. With large stocks from reputable manufacturers in Carryduff, Grayson can deliver an extensive range of goods across Northern Ireland and ROI. Distribution centres in England and Glasgow enable that same service across the water on UK mainland, giving continuity of supply no matter where the site is. Vehicles at every location can be deployed at a moment’s notice to service customer’s needs. As an Irish family owned business Grayson are proud to invest in the local economy, their recent addition to the company Tony Malone, new area manager joins the Belfast team with a wealth of experience from within the construction industry. His objective is to help his client’s jobs run smoothly and cost effectively, offering value engineering solutions where possible and a low-cost stress-free approach to the procurement of site consumables. Tony and his team work in

partnership with large manufacturers such as ACS Stainless Steel Fixings, Visqueen, Fischer and Rockwool. These partnerships enable Grayson to give expert knowledge and excellent turnaround on items such as, Masonry Support, Windposts and Brickslips, key for any major project to keep running on schedule. Grayson’s wealth of knowledge ensures clients get the right products, to the right place at the right time. A full range of products including Gas Membranes, DPCs, Wall Ties, Reinforcement, Fire Socks, Weep Vents, Mortar Tubs, Fixings, Silicones and Accessories from leading manufacturers that can be relied on and trusted are available from Grayson (GB) Ltd at Carryduff.

Tony Malone

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30| John Simpson

Planning for better urban living conditions in cities by John Simpson

The new planning guidelines for each of the eleven local authorities, asks them to prepare a development framework for their area over the period to 2035. Each will publish proposals, invite consultative replies and then formally adopt what is hoped to be an agreed agenda. The difficult part will be securing a broadly based buy-in in each of the Councils.

Devising plans for Belfast City is well advanced. However, the Belfast Local Development Plan does pose questions that are less easy to resolve than for most other areas. The boundaries of Belfast City are

tightly drawn and contain only small amounts of ‘open space’ or greenfield areas that can come into the plans to make provision for the extra space that must be found if the population is to increase significantly, or extra space as households tend to seek larger homes, or extra space for offices, factories, public facilities that would be critical to a modernising urban environment. A critical starting point for the Belfast City plans must ask whether the city, within its boundaries, should be more constrained in planning for an increase in population than other local authorities. Being surrounded by Lisburn and Castlereagh, Ards and North Down, and Newtownabbey, the changing demography of the greater Belfast travel to work area should mean that, proportionately, more (if not most) of any population increase should be outside the existing Belfast

boundaries. That then has implications for the location of employment opportunities. Unfortunately, Belfast City Council seems to have taken little account of the consequences of the ambitions for a more prosperous city environment. Belfast is already a heavily developed city with a population living in conditions in many areas which constrain the search for higher living standards. A demanding feature in Belfast City must be a major emphasis on urban redevelopment and regeneration. To date, the scale of the regeneration needs is limited. Regeneration of what will be ‘brown field’ older housing areas has not been quantified. Whether the housing regeneration programme is public sector led or commissioned by drawing on the private sector (or both) must

be a critical building block for the reconsideration of how Belfast accommodates its 350,000+ residents and any increases. The key indicators currently adopted by the Belfast City Council for 2035 are: 66,000 additional residents 46,000 additional jobs 37,000 additional homes These are the baseline assumptions. More ambitious indicators talk about possibly 89,000 additional residents and 69,000 additional jobs. The key question is whether these indicators, with the margin for error that such plans inevitably involve, would be an acceptable outcome. If the Belfast travel to work area is treated as the more sensible planning area, then the pressure of

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John Simpson|31 66,000 additional residents by 2035 (or nearly 4,000 each year) might be reconsidered. Northern Ireland is not an over-crowded region but parts of Belfast City are. Not only is inner-urban congestion a feature to be alleviated but a more dispersed population increase in other urban

centres would be a sensible overall regional outcome. A consequence of the acceptance of a population target of 66,000 additional residents is that there would need to be a large increase in the building of new homes. The planners have made

an estimate that 37,000 new homes would be needed and that converts into house building, or building of apartments, at a rate of over 2,000 each year.

the imbalance between access and car usage. The Belfast plan seems to continue the fudge that city centre retailing can be supported if there are good public bus services.

Given the space needed for over 2,000 units each year, inevitably, a growing proportion of the units would be in apartments. Whilst there will be some demand for modern apartments, is it consistent with more ambitious plans for a more prosperous city that apartment living will be the new norm?

That theory is less relevant when over 60% of the main retail shopping is based on car usage. Belfast is increasingly unfriendly to private car usage. Is this consistent with a more prosperous city?

A further complication of the baseline assumptions being made by Belfast planners is that the city will expect the number of daily inward commuters, travelling to work, to increase. The current daily commuting experience is not the worst in Europe but that is little consolation to large daily delays, queues and frustration. Should Belfast be planning for measures to disperse employment rather than for commuting to increase? Are the planners prepared to discourage further city centre office blocks and industrial use type buildings? There are related questions to pose in terms of the dispersal of retailing outlets. Belfast is increasingly deterring large city centre retailers because of

A major weakness in the institutional arrangements for city planning in the years to 2035 is that the city council does not have adequate leverage on key planning decisions. For Belfast, and each of the 11 local authorities, forward plans must combine decisions on housing and traffic management. Both of these key services are still controlled by central government departments. The suspicion remains that, despite assurances on co-operation, housing plans and traffic (and roads) management are not well integrated into the new systems. Now is the moment when interested people and organisations should catch up with the draft Local Development proposals and make their representations.

Upto 37,000 new homes could be needed in Belfast by 2035

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digest digest

06| 32

CIOB Bowled Over! NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

CITB NI & Radius Housing Harvey Apprenticeship Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year launch growth plan in UK and Ireland. Endeavour Award CITB NI and Radius Housing are working inNewtownabbey-based partnership to award £500 company, to a M&E services construction Harvey Group, craft has acquired apprentice who Northern Ireland renewable has overcome a energy specialists, Solmatix significant adversity in a move the toRenewables allow them say will transform tocompanies successfully complete their the renewable energy sector training programme in Northern Ireland and act and as a achieve springboard for further aexpansion construction into the multiqualification at NVQ million pound UK and Ireland Level 2 or Level 3.

G IN THE PUBLIC ONSTRUCTION MARKET

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

beneficial. From my perspective, having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise. “Harvey Group and Solmatix share similar values, by which I mean our commitment to professionalism, The Chartered Institute our to deliver our services to of desire Building (CIOB) hosted anvery end-of-summer the highest standards, and the bowlingweevent the our importance place onattreating Odyssey in Belfast. customers, our suppliers and our staff Leading recruitment with courtesy and consideration.” firm Hays as well as Richard Bell, the founder Belfast-based law and firm managing director of Solmatix Tughans also entered Renewables describedCorr, the acquisition teams. Philip CIOB

committee member, and the event organiser

as great news for Solmatix, its customers, suppliers and staff. “In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. commented, Ultimately this will lead “This was aI believe great opportunity for CIOB members wellinvestment as other to greater growthasand professionals from throughout within our operations, as well asthe construction industry to meet more jobs and job security. It’sup a socially and enjoy a fun evening to win-win relationship that’s good mark the end of the summer. We for our to whole organisation, as annual intend develop this into an well as the economy of Northern event.” Ireland. “ For further details on upcoming CIOB events, visit www.ciob.org.

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park TOP LINE-UP FOR CONSTRUCTION

Tendering in the Public Sector Construction

- 1 Day Workshop SHOPS – Cost:Market £25* to all in partnership with Intertrade Ireland cludes lunch and refreshments.

The programme of events runs into 2018, bookings can be made via the events section of the CITB NI website www.citbni.org.uk/Events.aspx Topics

Date

Venue

Recruiting Apprentices and Training Needs Analysis (in partnership with InvestNI)

Wednesday 17 January 2018

Lodge Hotel, Coleraine

PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL CONFERENCE

production of Randox’s pioneering Y/LONDONDERRY, NEWRY - Book Now medical diagnostic products and will also include administrative Digital Marketing associated & Wednesday Seagoe Hotel, Social Media Workshop 21 February functions. The works first 2018 are the Portadown Who shouldSeptember attend? specialises in arbitration 17th 2018] phase ofin athemajor capital expenditure Tendering Public Friday Innovation This workshop is designed for Construction adjudication with ‘Everything was going so and Sector Construction 23 February Centre, Businesses that are targeting (or thinking about 13 November 2017, 9:00am-5:00pm Workshop Derry/ project by with Randox2018 to develop aMarket particular focus onthe well, until the Construction contract targeting) the Public Sector Market (in partnership Londonderry InterTradeIreland) – in Northern Ireland, Ireland and Britain. BT29 4SR , 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, former Massereene Army and Barracks the construction crashed’ is Co theAntrim title into ‘Randox Science Park’ a NI, energy as–well ofconsider the forthcoming Why this workshop? Credit Control & sectors Cyber Wednesday CITB NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender) Security 21 March 2018 Crumlin as commercial contracts annual conference futuristic R&D and manufacturing The workshop will highlight the opportunities Recruiting Apprentices Wednesday Canal Court, including PPP; John of The Construction emerging inapublic sector construction across WItH reputation for facility. The award-winning, and Training Needs 18th April 2018 Newry the UK and Ireland – to clearly communicate the Analysis (in partnership Riches, of Henry Cooper Professionals Council for excellence in opportunity. constructing high with InvestNI) international biotechnology firm, scale of the market Consultants who is a Northern (CPC And having flaggedIreland the opportunity, the quality projects, tAL Limited unveiled its plans for an innovative workshop is designed to help construction highly experienced NI). An impressive line23 February 2018,businesses 9:00am-5:00pm improve tender performance and Digital Marketing & Wednesday Silverbirch has awarded a has significant hub on the 43 acre site earlier this Social Media Workshop expert 23rd May 2018 Hotel, arbitrator, upbeen of– tender speakers outcomes awards can comebeen down to Omagh on Centre, Bay Road, Derry/Londonderry BT48 7TG contract (£3.1m) by global small scoring differences, and this workshop is year. determiner and mediator secured for this signature Tendering in the Public Friday 15th Canal Court, focused on helping participants to ‘do their best medical diagnostics company Sector Construction June 2018 Newry and Denis of Welcoming theBaldwin announcement, event which will take work’ in preparing and submitting tenders for Market Workshop NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender) public sector construction (in partnershipContract with Soma Services place on 29thcontracts. November Damien Randox. Hughes, Director of TAL InterTradeIreland) who has over“We 40 are years in download Belfast. They For2018 information detailed This initial contractaisfullfor the Limited commented: agenda from CITB NI home Credit Control & Cyber Wednesday Everglades professional experience include the UKpage barrister, construction of a new facility for Security June 2018 Hotel, Derry/ delighted to have 20 been awarded www.citbni.org.uk/Home.aspx Date: Monday 13 November 2017 Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm Venue: CITB NI, Nutts Corner Training Centre, Crumlin Cost: £25* not eligible for CITB NI grant

Lindy Patterson QC, who

and to book a place contact:

5 June 2018, 9:00am-5:00pm Laura Kearney Email: laurak@envision-ni.co.uk quoting go-2ourt, Merchants Quay, tender Newry BT35 8HF T: +44 (028) 90452777 / 04890 452777 (ROI)

NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender)

Londonderry in Building and Civil Tendering in the Public Sector Construction Market Workshop (in partnership with InterTradeIreland)

Monday 1 October 2018

this contract with Randox, one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic and exciting businesses on a local and global level. Through the quality Engineering and is a of our work and the dedication and practising Construction professionalism of our team TAL has Contract Consultant. steadily grown over the last 34 years and contract award reinforces Thethis Construction Professionals Council for Northern Ireland in is the the strength of our expertise the umbrella organisation for most of healthcare sector.” professional the construction The projectbodies will bein delivered sector in Northern Ireland with a to BIM level 2 in partnership collective membership of over 9,000 with the design and of professionals. It team acts inOstick the interests Williams Architects, Rainey Best, its constituent members to&promote best practise in theDelap procurement Doran Consulting, & Wallerof professionalEngineers services. and Charles Consulting Hutchison Consulting. “This event should be of interest to Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing anyone engaged in the construction

CITB NI, Crumlin

CONCRETE FUTURES

Please note there is a charge of £25 to attend the ‘Tendering in the Public Sector Construction Market’ Workshops. All other events are FREE to registered employers and £25 for non CITB NI registered attendees. Refreshments will be provided on arrival. For further information contact CITB NI, 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, BT29 4SR

Check us out on social media Tel: 028 9082 5466 email: info@citbni.org.uk

Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative sector at adiagnostics, senior leveltoasimprove well as manufacturing efficiency export commercial lawyers and to those high-value capabilities to responsiblehealthcare for procuring or project managing construction tenders. We world markets. This state-of-the-art are delighted to have secured premises will become a centresuch of an expert panel of speakers who cutting-edge research, development have experience and can share their and diagnostic manufacture, covering knowledge and insights of construction conditions such asthecancer, strokeIreland and contracts within Northern heart disease. We will also provide context,” commented Martin Hare, a significant to NI. the local economy Chairmanboost of CPC The conference at very through new jobcommences creation. We 1.30pm preceded & with much look forwardbytolunch working networking at 4.45pm. For TAL on this and initialends contract to deliver further information or to register your the high quality infrastructure we interest contact CIPC NI Secretary require. ” Colin McCarthy @ honsec@cpcni.com

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

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1 October 2018, 9:00am - 5:00pm 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, Co Antrim BT29 4SR NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender)

Check us out on social media 20/08/2014 16:45 www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Specify/ Lowry Building & Civil Engineering/ NI Fire and Rescue

Lowry Building and Civil Engineering paint a picture of success…

October 2018 was another landmark month in the continuing success story at Lowry Building and Civil Engineering. The company opened a new Belfast office at The Old Bank on Boucher Road, scooped a top CEF Construction Excellence Award, and completed a £7.8Million landmark project for NIFRS at Boucher Crescent, Belfast. Lowry Building has expanded over recent years and increased turnover significantly to become one of NI’s leading, award-winning, building and civil engineering companies. The addition of several dynamic, young professionals to the management team including Jemma Lowry, Business Development & Bid Manager, who has been joined by her sister Jayne, Quantity Surveyor, as the third generation of the Lowry family to run the business with parents Ian and

Helen, which was originally formed by their grandfather Jack Lowry in 1961. Jemma who graduated with an MSc in Environmental Engineering from Queens University Belfast and coordinates the company’s bid submissions and SHEQ department, commented

“Our focus is on delivering ‘best in class’ performance across core operations within construction, civil engineering and facilities management and we consistently achieve this through a highly structured approach built on trust, commitment and exceeding client expectations. That said the company is cautious about 2019 “we do a lot of work in the Education and Health sectors and can see a definite slowdown in projects coming through the procurement pipeline. We have several current projects ongoing such as a new Izuzu dealership for Eakin Bros at Maydown. Fire Upgrade Works in Lumen Christi College, Derry-Londonderry, and are involved on a number of Framework contracts with Central Procurement Delivery and Northern Ireland Water but we really need our politicians back in Stormont to sign off on larger public works. The lack of government in NI is a bigger worry than Brexit, and the

next 18-24 months will be challenging” Very recently Lowry Buidling & Civil Engineering have handed over a number of high quality, complex projects to the delight of the Clients involved, including… Northern Ireland Fire Service Maintenance Centre, Boucher Crescent, Belfast This £7.8million project saw Lowry Building and Civil Engineering construct a new maintenance centre for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. These new workshops will allow the Fire Service to maintain, service and keep spares in stock for all their equipment across Northern Ireland. From breathing apparatus to fire tenders, this new centre will be responsible for maintaining and storing equipment. “We were delighted to finish our second major project for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service which involved

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Specify/ Lowry Building & Civil Engineering/ NI Fire and Rescue

the construction of a new Service Support Centre at Boucher Crescent, Belfast,” Jemma told Specify. “The new facility is located alongside the existing NIFRS Training Facility and will service and supply all NIFRS activities throughout Northern Ireland. “The new building followed the revolutionary design principles set by the Omagh Community Fire Station and incorporates the same curved and asymmetric structural steel construction and red Kalzip roofing system. It has been built to a BREEAM Excellent standard and features a 16-bay vehicle workshop, parking, stores, clean workshop areas, small equipment service areas, equipment test areas and office accommodation.” The Doyen – winner of the CEF/Specify Fit Out Award 2018

The impressive multi-million pound refurbishment of Belfast’s newest bar, eatery and lounge, The Doyen – formerly the iconic King’s Head pub - was completely transformed into a 15,000sqft entertainment and dining complex at Lisburn Road, Belfast. The extensive building programme created a modern bar and restaurant now featuring a traditional public bar serving a top-quality, gastropub menu with a large outdoor seating area; a stylish café bar; a family-friendly, Italian-themed restaurant upstairs seating 130 people and private rooms catering for parties up to 140. There is even a secret snug bar, catering for 30 people. The whole event space is now fully equipped for the needs of the end user. LBCE worked closely with the design team to ensure the end product would meet the client’s expectation, an initial review of the specification

reduced costs to comfortably meet the client budget where alternative construction methods and materials were suggested. This close relationship continued throughout the project, with regular co-ordination, technical and progress meetings to deliver this fast paced project to the satisfaction of the whole team. Altnagelvin Theatres – Finalist in the CEF/Specify Health Infrastructure Award 2018 Two highly specified surgical theatres were constructed by Lowry Building and Civil Engineering within an internal courtyard space of the existing Altnagelvin Area Hospital building, the high risk project completed in a ‘live’ hospital environment bounded by operational wards and busy clinics. The confined site location caused restricted staff access only via the existing

Hospital Street and requiring strict infection control procedures to be implemented and monitored over the contract duration. No material delivery was permitted through the hospital, all had to be safely craned in overhead, using outof-hours scheduling, to prioritise the needs of WHSCT and patients. From the outset Lowry Building & Civil Engineering (LBCE) was in constant communication with the client and entire design team, due to the vital location of the site within the hospital and subsequent detailed planning of activities, integrating all clinics and appointments into the programme. LBCE held weekly look-ahead meetings with WHSCT to forecast activities for the coming week, ensuring no implications on the smooth running of the planned healthcare, to the immense satisfaction of the WHSCT.

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Specify/ Lowry Building & Civil Engineering/ NI Fire and Rescue An existing prefabricated unit was initially removed from the site to uncover various unknown services which required full coordination of the whole project team and direction from LBCE on identifying the actual services present and integrating these into the proposed build. Buildability was a major brief for LBCE due to the extremely confined site and necessary craning in of all materials above the existing hospital buildings. The steel framed structure and all associated components were delivered to a storage depot offsite and transported to the craning location as and when required to be erected within the site area.

Meeting time and budget goals was vital for WHSCT due to the critical need for this healthcare infrastructure. A meticulously detailed programme was developed in conjunction with WHSCT and first tier subcontractors, considering all planned clinics and appointments alongside the potential level of noise and vibration. All materials were lifted in via crane from a dedicated crane compound and full time crane operator. Infection control was paramount meaning the exclusive use of blue over boots, sticky mats changed 10 times per day and a full time dedicated cleaner along the Hospital Street, critically eliminating micro-organisms in the live wards.

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Specify/ Lowry Building & Civil Engineering/ NI Fire and Rescue

exteral facades Innovated Aluminium Technology

4 Longfield Rd, Londonderry BT47 3PY +44(0) 28 7181 0829

info.iat@aol.co.uk www.iatltd.co.uk

Innovated Aluminium Technology were delighted to be appointed the Glazing Contractor for this prestige project and to continue the close working relationship with Lowry Building & Civil Engineering. Innovated Aluminium Technology manufactured and installed the curtain walling and external doors to this new facility. The installation also included Brise Soleil Solar Shading and an array of coloured and etched glass panels thus giving the building a new modern look. All systems where fabricated from the Metal Technology Range of Systems Innovated Aluminium Technology worked closely with both the design team to ensure that their vision of what the finished building could be achieved. They also liaised with the cladding contractor in detailing out the many different interfaces

Fencing Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill Fencing

between the external cladding and the curtain walling. This was paramount particular at the curved front elevation section ensuring that the building

envelope was sealed and free from water ingress. The NIFRS Logistic Project was one of the largest projects that

IAT was awarded by Lowry Building and Civil Engineering. This showed the design team that IAT have the capability and knowledge to deliver such a complex project.

3 Lisbunny Road, Donemana BT82 QPZ +44(0) 28 713 98300

O`Neill Fencing were delighted to be the preferred subcontractor who was awarded the new fencing installation contract by long standing customer and main contractor Lowry Building and Civil Engineering at the new NIFRS (Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service) HQ situated on the Boucher Road Belfast.

and double leaf access gates complimenting the perimeter solution. Some of the perimeter fencing was enhanced with additional security features added by the way of cover from view steel sheeting added to the panel and post system.

O`Neill Fencing installed a full perimeter protection system which included some minor civil works, 2430mm high boundary fencing installed with single

Ambrose Houston (Project Manager for O`Neill Fencing) commented- â&#x20AC;&#x153;Belfast has certainly been a hot-spot for major projects for our business this year. Key projects included the new fence installation at the prestigious JLR (Jaguar LandRover) showroom and of course the complex, but yet superb sports installation package at the new Olympia Leisure Centre. Our workmanship speaks for itself on these schemes of which we are extremely proud to have been involved with.

With securing this key fencing project for Lowry`s it made it a bonanza year in and around the Boucher Road of Belfast for O`Neill Fencing.

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Aluminium Glazing Products. Innovated Aluminium Technology (IAT) have a large variety of Aluminium Glazing Products which range from Curtain Walling, Windows of all varieties, Doors, Bi-Folding Doors, Shop Fronts, Roof Lights, Louvers and Brise Soleil. IAT has invested in the specialised machinery required to manufacture the various systems which we ensure is of the highest possible standards ready for installation on site.

Telephone: 028 7181 0829 Email: info.iat@aol.co.uk Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Specify/ Lowry Building & Civil Engineering/ NI Fire and Rescue

RESIN Flooring Larsen Contracts

With over 30 years of experience in resin flooring for commercial, public and industrial projects, Larsen Contracts have a strong reputation for quality workmanship and delivering fast-track flooring solutions such as that needed at the new NI Fire and Rescue facility in Belfast. Larsen Contracts are approved applicators for many resin flooring manufacturers which enables them to offer a broad range of options to customers. Daniel McCormick, Contracts Manager, explained, “ HLM Architects specified that an R12 rated any slip finish floor was needed. Working together with Sika who proposed their epoxy self-levelling 263N system, Larsen provided a full service flooring installation to include floor preparation and laying to meet the programme requirements. It

4 West Bank Road, Harbour Industrial Estate, Belfast, BT3 9JL T: 028 9077 4000

info@larsencontracts.co.uk www.larsen-contracts.com

required us to be efficient and well organised to deliver this project for Lowry Building and Civil Engineering. We look forward to working together on future projects.” Larsen Contracts are a specialist contractor operating throughout the UK and Ireland dealing with concrete repair, cathodic protection, protective coatings, resin flooring as well as structural waterproofing and car park coatings.

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Work throughout UK & Ireland

4 West Bank Road, Harbour Industrial Estate, Belfast, BT3 9JL

T: 028 9077 4000

info@larsencontracts.co.uk

www.larsen-contracts.com Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

CITB NI | 39

CITB NI leading the way for Construction Training

CITB NI are focused on driving investment in skills and training that a growing construction sector requires, with the aim to be the training hub for the local construction industry CITB NI offers key initiatives to help the industry train. Should I be registered with CITB NI? All construction industry employers are required by law to register with CITB NI and to complete and return the Annual Levy Return form. If you can answer YES to the following questions you should be registered with CITB NI 1. Are you working in the construction industry in Northern Ireland *? 2. Are you an employer? 3. Are you working in Northern Ireland for 27 or more weeks in relevant tax year? *activities of the construction industry are defined within Schedule 1 of the Industrial Training Board Order 1964. What benefits do I receive as a CITB NI registered employer? As a registered construction employer you will gain access to the following benefits: - Training Grants for you and your Team

apprenticeship grants. new series of - Training through our Mobile Training CITB NI launches Business Improvement Events for Unit and scaffolding facility TENDERING IN THE PUBLIC the Industry Skills shortages and an aging - Training support at employer CITB NI is hosting a series of business SECTOR CONSTRUCTION MARKET improvement events toconstruction help construction firms workforce are putting at information events and through our within the industry develop specific skills to help partnership with InterTradeIreland) risk andthem apprentices areThefundamental online training(in directory thrive and grow. first of these events is: The programme of events runs into 2018, to the future growth of the industry. - Training Research for accurate, Tendering in the Public Sector Construction participants bookings enabling can be made via the events to - 1 Day Workshop 1 DAYlooking WORKSHOPS – Cost: £25* to all in partnership with (CISRS) This yearMarket registered construction current and forward labour section of the CITB NI website Intertrade Ireland achieve an industry recognised www.citbni.org.uk/Events.aspx participants includes lunch and refreshments. employers can gain £5200 during the market intelligence scaffolder’s card. Date Topics Venue 3 year cycle of training an apprentice - Careers information through our Recruiting Apprentices Wednesday Lodge Hotel, Short courses are delivered via and Training Needs 17 January Coleraine Analysis (in partnership 2018 plus an additional £1500 from2017 the website and careers events. Date: Monday 13 November with InvestNI) Training Interventions which are Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm CRUMLIN, DERRY/LONDONDERRY, NEWRY -Corner Book Now Department Economy for Venue:for CITB the NI, Nutts Training Centre, industry demand led and have Crumlin those who oneligible apprentices Why should my company Digital Marketing & Seagoe Cost:take £25* not for CITB NI grant included –Workshop SafetyWednesday Social Media 21Nets February Inspection, Hotel, 2018 Portadown from theWho very start right through to invest in training? should attend? Leadership in Construction, Site Tendering in the Public Friday Innovation This workshop is designed for Construction completion of NVQ Level 2 and 3. Sector Construction 23 February Centre, Foundations for Mental Businesses that are targeting (or thinking about Supervisor, Date: Monday, 13 November 2017, 9:00am-5:00pm Market Workshop 2018 Derry/ targeting) the Public Sector Construction Market - Training delivers results. Investing (in partnership with Londonderry InterTradeIreland) – in Northern Ireland, Ireland and Britain. BT29Health. NI, 17 Dundrod Road, Co funds Antrim 4SR The CITB NI Crumlin, training grant in a long termVenue: approach CITB to training Why consider this workshop? Credit Control & Cyber Wednesday CITB NI, are easy to claim, with employers will save time in the future as trained BOOK NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender) Security 2018 Crumlin CITB NI also run21aMarch Business The workshop will highlight the opportunities encouraged to claim online via the staff will be able to take on more Recruiting Apprentices Wednesday Canal Court, emerging in public sector construction across Improvement which is a and Training Needs Programme 18th April 2018 Newry the UK and Ireland – to clearly communicate Analysis (in partnership website www.citbni.org.uk/grants as it the series responsibility - leaving you more with InvestNI) scale of the market opportunity. of workshops on key business And having the opportunity, the is easy, quick and flagged efficient. time to think about developing your topics held in key towns across workshop is designed to help construction business. CITBDate: NI are focused on23 February 2018,businesses Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm improve tender performance and Digital Marketing & Silverbirch Ireland.Wednesday Find out more on Social Media Workshop 23rd May 2018 Hotel, outcomes – tender awards can come down to Northern Omagh What Training and Support driving investment in skillsInnovation and training Venue: Centre, Bay Road, Derry/Londonderry BT48 7TG small scoring differences, and this workshop is all the topics, venues andCanal how to book Tendering in the Public Friday 15th Court, focused on helping participants to ‘do their best Services do CITBandNI deliver? that a growing construction sector Sector Construction June 2018 Newry work’ in preparing submitting tenders for www.citbni.org.uk/events Market Workshop BOOK NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender) public sector construction contracts. (in partnership with requires and offer key initiatives to InterTradeIreland) information download a full detailed CITB NI For have a fully functional help the industry train. CITB NI will continue focus on agenda from CITB NI home page Credit Control & Cyber Wednesdayto Everglades Security 20 June 2018 Hotel, Derry/ www.citbni.org.uk/Home.aspx Training Directory which allows you Londonderry providing the support and services and to book a place contact: to search effectively for the course What is the CITB NI Grants needed to ensureMonday local businesses Date: Friday, 15 June 2018, 9:00am-5:00pm Tendering in the Public CITB NI, Laura Kearney suitable for you. Scheme? Sector Construction 1 October Crumlin Email: laurak@envision-ni.co.uk quoting go-2have the right skills. Market Workshop 2018 Through a mix Venue:

Canal Court, Merchants Quay, tender Newry BT35 8HF

InterTradeIreland) T: +44 (028) 90452777 / 04890 452777 (ROI) of Grant funding and Direct Training BOOK NOW (quoting Go-2-Tender) CITB NI’s Mobile Training Unit The CITB NI Training Grant Scheme Interventions CITB NI will help Please note there is a charge of £25 to to attend the ‘Tendering in the Public Sector Construction Market’ (MTU) provides training on site offers support to a wide range Workshops. All other events are FREE to registered employers and £25 forthe non CITB NI registered attendees. develop workforce to meet client all registered in-scope construction of training and qualifications from Refreshments will be provided on arrival. and grow For further information contact CITB NI, 17needs Dundrod Road, Crumlin, BT29 4SRtheir business. employers and as long as you are apprentices through to the existing Tel: 028 9082 5466 email: info@citbni.org.uk based in 9:00am NI the MTU can come to workforce including Date: management Monday, and 1 October 2018, - 5:00pm For further information on what you. Road, Courses range from confined administration. Venue: CITB NI, 17 Dundrod Crumlin, Co Antrim BT29 4SRwe can do to help you and your spaces, excavations to working at construction training log on www. heights.Go-2-Tender) In 2018 – 2019 the grantBOOK fundingNOW (quoting citbni.org.uk, like us on Facebook CITB NI’s scaffolding training facility has increased to £1.65million to http://www.facebook.com/ is the only one of its kind in NI and is support training within the local CITBNorthernIreland and follow the approved to deliver the Construction construction industry and includes an discussion on Twitter @CITBNI and Who should attend? additional 30% increased investment in Industry Scaffolding Record Scheme LinkedIn (in partnership with

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

This workshop is designed for Construction Businesses that are targeting (or thinking about targeting) the Public Sector Construction Market – in Northern Ireland, Ireland and Britain. Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk Why consider this workshop? The workshop will highlight the opportunities emerging in public sector construction across the UK and Ireland – to clearly communicate the scale of the market opportunity. And having flagged the opportunity, the workshop is designed to help construction businesses

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44 |

digest

Gerflor ‘power through’ to deliver outstanding Dublin gym

Honeypark is a high-end residential apartment development built on the Olde Dún Laoghaire Golf course in Dublin. Apart from the original features of the golf course with its magnificent array of trees, flora and fauna, a multimillion-euro investment programme has now been implemented. It’s in perfect keeping with a development that was once home to the Olde Dún Laoghaire Golf club, now offering a lush setting that has been reborn as South Dublin’s finest new address. It’s an outstanding quality of build brought together by the developer Cosgraves Since 1979 Cosgraves have built many of the most exceptional living environments in Dublin. Honeypark benefits from the wealth

of experience that Cosgraves have gained over 30 years as a premier builder. As part of the projects requirements a gym would need to be installed on the penthouse level of the development. Only the highest quality state-of the art gym flooring would be specified by the contractor and the final choice would be 110m2 of Gerflor’s outstanding Powershock 300 in Dark Grey. The designated contractor needed a flooring surface that would deliver noise reduction levels to avoid unacceptable impact sound to apartments below the installed gym area. Powershock 300 from Gerflor did just that. There are flooring types that can resist the beating of the free-weight and weight lifting areas, then there are floors that look great and floors that are made in formats that make them quick to install, interchangeable and replaceable. There are also floors that are easy to maintain. The Powershock 300 range from Gerflor is a high impact rubber solution that delivers all the above in spades.

The range is perfect for a host of fitness activities as they are designed to be both functional and hardwearing. The Powershock 300 range is more durable and easier to clean and maintain, providing up to 5 times more resistance to indentation than a standard rubber flooring. Powershock 300 is a 30mm thick high impact rubber flooring tile ideal for free weight and heavy weight areas in any gym or fitness facility. Their preinstalled connector pins make for easy installation. Powershock 300 avoids deep-impact damage while providing outstanding sound deadening. Powershock 300 tiles are made from vulcanised rubber to increase their strength and durability, the nonporous wearlayer is impermeable and odourless. Powershock 300 also delivers fantastic shock absorption qualities and sound installation of 26dB, whilst also providing important protection for the existing subfloor. Gerflor are the sports, leisure and fitness flooring experts. and have been delivering sports wellness since 1947. They are a trusted partner in the fitness world, supplying solutions

for all areas of a fitness facility offering users safety, comfort and performance. Achieving stunning looks coupled with high levels of safety and performance can often be a challenge, however Gerflor’s range of durable fitness solutions stand the test of time even in heavy traffic environments delivering superior performance every time. Their collection of sports and fitness products are the ideal solution for several key areas within any sports or fitness facility including; aerobics and classroom areas, personalised training zones, free weights areas, fitness and cardio vascular spaces, together with reception areas and changing rooms. Learn more about Gerflor solutions; ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01926 622 600, emailing contractuk@ gerflor.com, or visit gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations. Case study notes Client - Cosgrave Developments Location- Dublin End user Honeypark Apartments Product – Powershock 300 Colours – Dark Grey M2 - 110

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ALM Met-Seam | 45

VENETIAN ZINC MEETS BELFAST BRICK ALM HM/ MET-SEAM supplied the Zintek Rock Grey pre-weathered zinc, which was installed to the new sections of the Titanic Hotel in Belfast. The hotel is one of Belfast’s true architectural gems, the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, known locally as the Drawing Office. The pre-weathered zinc perfectly complements the sandstone and red brick walls of the hotel. Zintek, who are based in Venice, is available exclusively in Ireland from ALM HM/ MET-SEAM. In addition to the Rock Grey pre weathered, Zintek now offer a range of coloured zincs including Mediterranean Blue, Antique Red, Earth Brown and Graphite Black. A manufacturer material warranty is available on Zintek zinc, and ALM HM / MET-SEAM can assist specifiers with samples, correct build ups and detailing.

Ireland’s Largest

Hard Metals

and ancillary supplier to the building industry

ALM HM/Met-Seam are the leading distributor of Hard Metal and ancillary to the building industry. ALM HM/Met-Seam Ltd hold extensive stocks of various materials from all leading European manufacturers including VMZINC, Rheinzink Zinc, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Arubis Copper, Aperam Stainless Steel, Alcoa Aluminium, and Lindab Painted Steel. We also stock matching rainwater systems.

Ireland’s Largest The A-Z of hard metals for the building envelope

Hard Metals

ALM HM/MET-SEAM Ltd hold extensive stocks of various metals from leading manufacturers including Further to hard metals, ALM HM/Met-Seam in Craigavon and our VMZINC, Rheinzink, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Samsung Copper, Lindab Painted Steel and Prefa PreFalz Dublin office also supply (at highly competitive rates) all associated Painted roofingAluminium. and cladding include Nvelope and Kladfix to rail and andproducts ancillary supplier the building industry

support systems, Warmfast fixing clips, Warmfast self adhesive foil faced vapour barriers, structured underlays and breather membranes, In addition to hard metals, we also stock ancillary including matching Linitherm PAL OSB, Linitherm PGV FLEX (unique rigid insulation rainwater goods, vapour barriers, structured underlays, breather for curved and barrell vault application), Kingspan TR26, Celotext TA4000, Metdeck, Foamglas Readyboard, Ecotherm, Xtratherm, membranes, roofing tools and roofing machinery. Puren M insulations, Freund tools, Jouanel and other machinery, Express and Perkeo Soldering Equipment, solder sticks, flux cleaning Further to supplying materials, we also fabricate roofing and cladding chemicals and more.

systems, and assist specifiers with CPD presentations, samples, specifications, build-ups, detailing and material warranties.

ALM HM offer the complete metal roofing, cladding and insulation package.

www.almhm.ie. www.metseam.com ALM HM/Met-Seam are the leading distributor of Hard Metal and ancillary to the building industry. ALM HM/Met-Seam Ltd hold extensive stocks of various materials including VMZINC, Rheinzink Zinc, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Arubis Copper, Aperam Stainless Steel, Alcoa Aluminium, and Lindab Painted Steel. We also stock matching rainwater systems.

Check us out on social media from all leading European manufacturers www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Further to hard metals, ALM HM/Met-Seam in Craigavon and our

Dublin Office + 353 1 420 1700 Craigavon Office 0044 28 38 325757

ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS IN IRELAND

BRING BRICK TO LIFE

At Kingscourt Country Manor Brick we see not only the beauty in every brick, but the possibilities. We have over 30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience supplying high quality natural building materials.

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JULY_KCMB_ARC_IRELAND_v1.indd 1

An outHaus Group and Lagan Brick Partnership

10/07/2018 16:05

2018 16:05

Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks| 47

Just what the doctor ordered Henry J Lyons and Bennett Construction have created an innovative, technologically advanced facility for the RCSI in the heart of Dublin city

sports facility below ground and a new library above. Carefully chosen materials, like the exposed concrete and bricks, have helped create an inviting, welcoming environment for students to develop expert skills on a world-class level. For more information on Casa Lena bricks contact distributor Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks on 028 9077 7321, e-mail info@kcmb.co.uk or visit kcmb.co.uk. Alternatively, visit our showroom at 12 Herdman Channel Road, Belfast, BT3 9LG. Project Details: Client: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Location: York Street, Dublin 2 Architect: Henry J Lyons Architects Contractor: Bennett Construction Brick Used: Casa Lena Year built: 2017 Awards: RIAI Public Choice Award 2018

When the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland approached Henry J Lyons Architects to discuss the design of its new home on York Street, little could the College have known what the end result would be. Together with Bennett Construction, Henry J Lyons has created a 12,000sq m, 10-storey building that cleverly bypasses stringent planning height constraints through the incorporation of four basement levels. The stateof-the-art facility provides medical students, surgical trainees and staff with modern cutting-edge facilities that will promote the development of the RCSI community at the heart of the city. Aimed at bringing medical education to a new level at the existing campus in Dublin 2, all facilities at the new RCSI building are of the highest standard. The new building facilitates the development of core technical and non-technical skills in a safe, simulated environment and allows early clinical education to be delivered away from the patient’s bedside. The new facility also offers trainees the opportunity to learn safe surgical practice and develop operative skills in a new surgical training suite with a mock operating theatre and clinical training wards. Integral to the building’s overall aesthetic is the use of brick which complements the surrounding buildings on York Street while also

evoking the memory of the original Georgian terraces in the area. Casa Lena bricks from Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks were specified for the project and were chosen for the tumbled and imprecise nature of their edges which contrasts with the ‘surgical’ precision of the non-brick materials. The architects also felt that the Casa Lena bricks help the building blend harmoniously with the existing RCSI granite buildings that flank the entrance to York Street from St Stephen’s Green. Materials on the project, along with the specified bricks, were chosen for their robustness and for their visual integration with the rest of the street. Exposed concrete in various finishes has been used to reveal the structure of the building while colour and texture cleverly differentiates between key functions of the building. The new facility also projects an air of welcomeness and openness thanks to the glazed frontage on the ground floor. As well as being the home of the new National Surgical & Clinical Centre, No.26 York Street also includes a library spanning three floors with 500 study spaces, a 540seat auditorium and a sports hall and fitness suite. The building has also been designed to be both energy efficient and environmentally responsible. Completed in just 30 months and delivered to budget, No.26 York Street is a triumph in terms of both design and construction. The challenging brief called for a series of complex spaces on a tight urban site which included state-of-the-art simulated environments for clinical and surgical training as well as an auditorium and

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48| Comerton + Hill

Claiming for damages for overcharging against Truck Manufacturers

Comerton + Hill

Solicitors

Find Out if You Could

Make a Claim

for damages for overcharging against Truck Manufacturers I am acting for a number of companies with a view to commencing proceedings against the undernoted manufacturers for overcharging:” Comerton and Hill Solicitors, of May Street, Belfast are acting for a number of companies with a view to commencing proceedings against the undernoted manufacturers for overcharging. The manufacturers are: 1. MAN; 2. Volvo; 3. Renault; 4. Iveco (which includes Fiat and Magirus); 5. Daimler (including Mercedes Benz, Fuso, Western Star and Freightliner); 6. DAF These manufacturers were found by the European Commission in June of 2016 to have operated a price cartel, keeping prices higher than they would have been had proper competition been operating in the market. Each truck builder was also found guilty of passing on the costs of meeting environmental standards to customers improperly. They were fined a total of €2.926 billion. Each company named above has admitted fault. Scania were part of the investigation, were found to have been part of the cartel but have appealed the finding. They cannot issue at present against Scania but will in future if it loses the appeal.

Any person or firm who has suffered loss as a result of these anticompetitive practices has a right to bring a claim for damages in the Northern Ireland High Court. Liability will not be an issue. As for the amount of potential claims (quantum), representatives of English claimants have estimated a loss of €10,500 per truck. Claimants will be successful if they can satisfy the following conditions: (a) They purchased new either a medium truck (6 tons to 16 tons) or a new heavy truck (16 tons plus); (b) From one of the above companies between 17th January 1997 and 18th January 2011. (For MAN between 17th January 1997 and 20th September 2010). We are the only law firm in Northern Ireland pursuing these claims. Similar claims are being pursued in other parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Comerton and Hill already have live instructions for 120 trucks. Existing clients are from the haulage, concrete, aggregate, animal feed and tanker sectors. Successful claimants can recover damages and costs from the Defendants. If you or your company have been affected, contact Comerton and Hill solicitors.

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1. MAN; 2. Volvo; 3. Renault; 4. Iveco (which includes Fiat and Magirus); 5. Daimler (including Mercedes Benz, Fuso, Western Star and Freightliner); 6. DAF

Claimants will be successful if they can satisfy the following conditions: a) They purchased new a medium truck (6 tons to 16 tons) or new a heavy truck (16 tons plus); b) From one of the above companies between 17th January 1997 and 18th January 2011. (For MAN between 17th January 1997 and 20th September 2010).

Find out How Much You May be Entitled to: Daniel Fitzpatrick LLM Comerton & Hill Solicitors 32/36 May Street Belfast BT1 4NZ

T: 028 90234629 We’ll take you through the details We’ve dealt with numerous enquiries and understand your need for compensation

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digest

RICS Awards launched The search to find the most outstanding local building projects is on following the opening of entries for the RICS Awards 2019, Northern Ireland.

The annual RICS Awards celebrate property projects that provide real value to the communities they serve by making them a better place to live, study, work or visit. The eight categories available to enter in are Building Conservation, Residential, Commercial, Infrastructure, RICS President John Hughes (left) toured the Tropical Ravine, Project of Regeneration, Community Benefit, the Year in the RICS Awards, Northern Ireland 2018, on a recent visit to Design Through Innovation and Belfast. He is pictured with Martin Doherty, Project Manager at Belfast City Tourism & Leisure. Council (centre) and Brian Henning, Chairman of RICS in Northern Ireland. The esteemed Project of the Year title will be awarded to the development that demonstrates against other regional winners in the at the national RICS Awards Grand outstanding best practice and an hope of winning the national accolade Final next Friday (2 November) in exemplary commitment to adding London for the chance to be crowned in their respective category. value to its local area. Chair of the RICS Awards, Northern the 2018 UK Project of the Year. The Tropical Ravine won the Project Ireland judging panel, Michael Each of the eight category winners of the Year title at this year’s RICS Hannaway said: “The properties we from across Northern Ireland have Awards, Northern Ireland and it will live in, and the buildings we visit or also been entered into the national now compete against regional winners RICS Awards Grand Final to compete work and study in, can have a real

impact on our wellbeing, output and productivity. What makes the RICS Awards stand out is that they celebrate the built projects, regardless of budget or actual size, by how they are making a real difference to people’s lives.” He added: “Northern Ireland has some of the very best skilled property professionals. These awards also celebrate the collaboration of such talented professionals and the teams that have delivered world-class built developments. These projects are not only having a positive impact on their local communities, but often the wider economy by attracting visitors and investment.” Entries to the RICS Awards 2019, Northern Ireland, will close on 25 January 2019.

For more information and to nominate a project visit www.rics. org/awards. An early-bird entry fee is available until 30 November. The Northern Ireland Awards take place on 30 May at Crowne Plaza Belfast.

HANNATH ESTATE AGENTS – SOLD! Leading Mid Ulster estate agent Hannath, based in Portadown, has been purchased by three Directors from within the business, with investment support by First Trust Bank. Alastair Glass, Gary Little and Ciaran McKendry have each played a key role managing the business for over 12 years and are taking over from founder Michael Hannath who will remain involved as consultant to the business. The company, which is the largest single estate agency practice outside of Belfast, employs 17 people across a wide range of property related services including residential and commercial sales and lettings, property management, professional services and valuations. A three-time Northern Ireland Gold winner at the National ‘Estate Agency of The Year’ Awards in association with The Sunday Times, the new owners

plan to capitalise on an already strong reputation to grow the business. Speaking about the purchase, Alastair Glass, Hannath’s new Managing Director said:

“We are delighted to announce our acquisition of Hannath which begins a new chapter for the business. We have exciting developments on the horizon and whilst we are already well positioned in the local market, we have ambitious plans to increase our presence across neighbouring towns. “Part of our success to date has been a result of the multifaceted approach we take to business which we will continue to develop. As well as being industry experts in buying, selling and letting, we also have an inhouse team of experienced Chartered Valuation Surveyors. We are an RICS registered firm and place customer service excellence, professionalism and integrity firmly at the heart of our business.”

(L-R) Alastair Glass, Managing Director of Hannath Estate Agency, is pictured with Hannath Director Gary Little, Kevin Fitzpatrick, Business Acquisitions Manager at First Trust Bank and Hannath Director Ciaran McKendry.

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digest

Outline planning application submitted for Belfast investment project

An outline planning application has been submitted for a multimillion-pound project that aims to reinvigorate a part of Belfast which has received little investment in recent years.

The proposal covers a one and a quarter acre site between Gresham Street and Winetavern Street in the Smithfield area of the city, which is currently being used as a car park. Bywater Properties and Ashmour held a successful community consultation on the mixed-use project under the working title Building Blocks, with around 200 people giving their views at a series of drop in sessions held at the listed former Butcher’s building on the corner of Gresham Street and North Street.

The regeneration scheme includes a vibrant mix of contemporary office spaces, co-working space and workshops for small, local businesses, as well as significant improvements to the current public realm. On submission of the outline planning application, Theo Michell and Patrick O’Gorman from developers Bywater Properties and Ashley Stewart from local developer Ashmour reiterated that the project represents a longterm investment born of their confidence in Belfast’s future, which will also take inspiration from the area’s past. “We were pleased with the overwhelmingly positive response to the illustrative vision we set out through the consultation process. We set out a strong set of core guiding principles for the scheme and we were encouraged by the feedback from the community to our plans. “We have taken on board the views

expressed and now look forward to engaging with the city planners to move the project on to the next phase,” said Theo Michell. Bywater and Ashmour will engage with Planning Service and hope to receive approval by the first quarter of 2019. If approved, up to 650 construction jobs will be created in the build phase of the project and once completed the proposed office accommodation will have space for up to 1,500 people. The 235,000 sq ft scheme is anchored by The Mill Building, a 115,000 sqft office building which will provide first class office space offering 21st century floorplates, exceptional design that is sensitive to the

historic context, with roof terraces, digital connectivity and high-quality amenities. Central to the vision is the co-location of large and small businesses to create a collaborative, open and forwardthinking district in the city, where start-up entrepreneurs can build relationships with established SMEs and young professionals working in its Grade A offices.

£7 million investment in Ballycastle Wastewater Treatment Works Complete A new state-of-the-art £7million Wastewater Treatment Works at Ballycastle has been officially opened. The project involved the construction of a new treatment works on the existing expanded site, which will now meet the needs of the growing local population and economy.

Ballycastle is growing in terms of its population, tourism industry and infrastructure and the new plant is essential to accommodate this development, as well as improving the local river water quality and bathing water standards. Recognising the importance and sensitivity of the area, the construction team successfully overcame many obstacles along the way, as the new coastal Wastewater Treatment Works

(L-R) Stephanie McCullagh, Paul Harper, Ronan Larkin, Mark Ellesmere (all NI Water) John Mills Utility Regulator, Sara Venning, Sean McAleese, Len O’Hagan, Kieran Grant and Mark Brownlee from NI Water pictured at the opening of the works.

was built on an extremely confined site, and careful consideration needed to be made to the sensitive ecology of the surrounding environment when planning the works. The new plant, which includes additional stormwater storage to help protect water quality will treat wastewater to the required standards until 2035. Chartered Valuation Surveyors. We are an RICS registered firm and place customer service excellence, professionalism and integrity firmly at the heart of our business.”

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The simple, safe way to induct site workers. Online Site Induction (OSI) Ltd has developed a simple and safe way to induct site workers where safety is critical from the moment people receive an instruction to commence work.

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Use on the go Our individually tailored Online Site Induction process can be used on the go, 24/7 with remote induction using a Smart Phone, Tablet, PC, Laptop and any other internet friendly environment.

How It Works It is a simple process to create a project and add your project details to facilitate the online induction process. In most cases, an OSI representative will visit your site and assist you in compiling the necessary information. Even before work commences on site, inductees can be invited to complete a bespoke online site induction. Upon successful completion of the induction everyone is issued with an Induction Success Code to allow them access to a specified site and the contractor has instant access to a dashboard where all the inducted personnel can be viewed. Providing a service that gives contractors and tradespeople more flexibility, saving time and money.

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MURFOR

COMPACT MASONRY REINFORCEMENT ON A ROLL

Reinforce your masonry with Murfor® Compact to add strength and prevent cracking. Murfor® Compact is available in two different sizes to accommodate any wall to meet specific exposure classes or to suit different block or brick constructions. To ensure the correct product is used, each type of Murfor® Compact is available in different colours:

Murfor® Compact E (Red) Galvanised For use in dry environment Available in 2 sizes 50mm & 100mm

Murfor® Compact E (Blue) Stainless Steel For masonry exposed to damp environment Available in 2 sizes 35mm & 70mm

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For a free sample and no obligation quotation contact SDG Tel: +44 (0) 28 3744 0437 E-Mail: info@sdg.ie HEAD OFFICE 21 Tullygoonigan Industrial Estate, Moy Road, Armagh, BT61 8DR ROI OFFICE JFK House, Unit 3, John F Kennedy Indus. Estate, Bluebell, Dublin 12 WEB: www.sdgconstructiontechnology.com Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

www.ridgeway-online.com

Stockists of WPC Cladding and Decking

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Ridgeway| 55

Ridgeway offer DURA WPC products throughout Ireland

coupling agents, it will provide a beautiful low maintenance 87% recycled and 100% Certified FSC wall cladding. Dura Cladding also provides a traditional wood cladding appearance coupled with a 25-year design life at a fraction of the maintenance costs of natural wood. Dura Cladding is ideal for commercial premises, display areas, offices and factories. Dura Cladding is quickly becoming a popular choice for the external finishing of commercial and domestic buildings, providing a hardwearing, protective layer against the elements and acting as an excellent insulator. Dura Cladding has a fire/flammability resistance of composition rating to BS EN 13501-01. 0 For more information on the range of DURA Decking and Cladding products we stock please contact a member of our team at either Belfast +44 (0) 2890 454599 or Ashbourne +353 (01) 8027173 or alternatively email info@ridgeway-online.com.

As the exclusive distributor for DURA WPC products throughout Ireland, Ridgeway offer a comprehensive range of cladding and decking solutions suitable for both commercial and residential projects. Environmentally friendly, colour stable with low life-time cost, they represent an attractive alternative to natural timber but without the maintenance. Dura Deck Strong and durable, Dura Deck composite decking looks and feels just like natural wood but provides a longer-lasting solution that is environmentally friendly, easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. Made from an innovative blend of up to 87% recycled hardwood and plastics , Dura Decking helps to conserve the earth’s resources whilst

reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill. Our Dura Deck is available in two ranges, Eco and Resist. These board types differ in specification and help to suit various budgets and project requirements. The “tried & tested” ECO board range has been redesigned to incorporate an attractive wood grain effect on both the 146 and 295 board types, as well as adding a new colour (Stone) to the range. The recently launched DURAdeck Resist range is our premium offering and incorporates a 360 deg outer armour, offering enhanced protection. The co-extrusion manufacturing process also allows us to offer an even wider colour range to suit all tastes, meaning Ridgeway will now hold 6 different colour options from stock in Belfast and Dublin. Dura Cladding Dura Cladding is made using a highly developed extrusion process, with a unique timber and plastic composition. It is manufactured using recycled high-density polyethylene polymers, recycled ground hardwoods and specifically engineered additives. When harnessed together with high performance

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56| McCue Crafted Fit

Specify talks to Gary Purdy, Operations Director, McCue Crafted Fit Q: Did you plan to get involved in the Construction Industry?

At school I always enjoyed technical drawing and a favourite and enjoyable subject was joinery so the interest began there. I had my first taste of the construction industry when I was 16 and I knew then that I wanted to pursue a career in this sector. Q: How did you start off?

I attended Felden Training centre in Newtownabbey, which covered various aspects of the construction trades. After six months’ general construction training, you picked a bespoke trade in which you wanted to solely concentrate on; I chose joinery. I spent the next year and a half working for WD Stewart as an apprentice joiner before the opportunity came up with McCue Crafted Fit and my career has progressed since then. Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

There have been so many highlights during my time with McCue. Starting as an apprentice joiner and being able to reach Operations Director is definitely a personal highlight, but I’ve also had the privilege to be involved in the many prestigious projects that McCue has delivered throughout the years and across Europe such as Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square in London, which featured in the Bond movie, Skyfall, Urban Outfitters in Amsterdam and the award-winning Friend at Hand Whiskey Shop in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Seeing how the company has grown over the years, it has been great to be a part of it and I get to visit the majority of projects too, so you can find me in London one week and Milan the next. Q: What was the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

“Measure twice, cut once” is an excellent piece of advice that was given to me as an apprentice joiner. Another great piece of advice I’ve been given is “Ensure any risks you take are calculated risks” and is something I always consider when making a decision where risk has to be evaluated. Q: What would you say to any students considering

a career in construction?

I would say go for it! The construction sector has, of course, had its challenges but it still is an excellent career for those with the ambition to progress. There is so much opportunity and no two days are the same. Don’t get me wrong, there is a lot of hard work involved but there is no better feeling than seeing something come to life that you and the team have worked extremely hard on for weeks and months. Q: Do you think the Construction Sector needs more support from Stormont?

Most definitely. The construction sector in Northern Ireland requires an operational executive to give direction on major infrastructural projects and expenditure. I fear for the wider industry if the lack of government continues. Q: What needs to be done to help the Construction Sector?

I believe the apprenticeship training programme requires a total overhaul to attract more people into the construction sector. More focus needs to be given to this type of scheme, which can provide an excellent platform for young people to springboard into the construction sector. It is imperative that people understand the many merits of having a trade; third level education isn’t for everyone. We also need government backing to give people confidence in the

way forward, especially with the uncertainty around Brexit. Q: Tell us something surprising about yourself…

As well as having a strong interest in joinery when I was younger, I was a football fanatic and I played Irish

League Football for Distillery for two years. I also played for an amateur league team known as Albert Foundry. Nowadays, I am also a keen rugby fan, so don’t be surprised if you see me at Ravenhill/Kingspan watching from the sidelines with a well-earned pint of beer!

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digest

|57

WorkPal announces Continued Public Sector Success for the Second Year Running

WorkPal has done the double, bagging itself a place on the Government Framework for the second year running after a year of great success in the sector. The Digital Marketplace, which was established in 2012, is designed to provide public sector bodies with a single marketplace where they can source approved digital products and services such as WorkPal’s Workflow Management Software, converged mobile solutions and range of IT services. Since its inception in 2013, WorkPal has experienced rapid growth. It offers customers a reliable and easy to use software solution to their workflow management problems. The software hosts a range of features including job management, reporting, tracking and invoicing all available on the move and hosted in the cloud. Targeted at organisations with field

based workers, WorkPal is ideal for a range of public sector bodies such as district councils, schools, NHS as well as the police force, fire service and universities. After experiencing impressive success and growth with the UK’s private sector companies, WorkPal decided to expand its digital offerings into the public sector. The Digital Marketplace provides WorkPal with the opportunity to establish new trading partnerships and tender with public sector buyers in an open environment, creating a more transparent purchasing process. Furthermore, time constraints and different office hours for international trade are no longer issues as it’s possible to operate on a round the clock basis. Falling under the Barclay Communications brand, WorkPal is one of the many forward thinking products offered by Northern Ireland’s leading communications provider. Products such as their converged mobile solutions and range of IT services have catapulted Barclay Communications to the forefront of the UK digital technology industry. Britt Megahey, managing director of WorkPal and Barclay Communications,

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said: “Local government and wider public sector organisations are at the front-line of public service delivery. We have developed a deep understanding of the challenges facing these organisations currently and how it’s imperative for them to have access to the right technology and digital capability to ensure that there are innovative digital services available to all. “The Digital Marketplace enables us to engage directly with organisations across the whole of the UK and offer unique solutions that drive efficiencies and enable these organisation’s transformational programmes. “We’re particularly excited about this further endorsement of our support to the public sector and of our innovative solutions like WorkPal which has been designed and developed completely in house by our software development team. WorkPal offers a solution that provide organisations with a more effective way of working at a reasonable price all through a completely paperless system. We are constantly striving to make our products as relevant to the customers’ needs as possible, incorporating the latest in

technological advancements. All of our products encompass the same elements – simplicity and reliability which is what makes us a leader in the market. “We aim to stay ahead of the curve by offering innovative products such as flexible mobile solutions that put the control and choice back into the organisation’s own hands through a comprehensive cloud portal. Combining all these services through one trusted partner and giving our customers the highest level of customer service is always at the centre of everything we do at Barclay Communications. Britt continued: “It’s a huge achievement that WorkPal and Barclay Communications, has been awarded supplier status on this new Government Framework, helping to cut down procurement time with this faster and easier to use service. Buyers no longer need to carry out lengthy tender processes as the frameworks on the Digital Marketplace are fully compliant with procurement regulations. “We are delighted to be part of the government’s vision for a digital future and look forward to engaging with public sector customers from all parts of the UK.

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CEF/SpecifyCEF awards |29

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

Notice of Promulgation - Wages & Other Benefits, September 2018 The Joint Council for the Building & Civil Engineering Industry (Northern Ireland) decided to promulgate on 20 August changes to wages and other benefits effective from Monday 10 September 2018. The Promulgation Notice and updated Working Rules Agreement are available for Federation members to view in the Resources section of the Member Dashboard at www. cefni.co.uk by entering your login details.

Have you used the CSR Online Card Checker yet?

he CSR online card checker is the quickest and easiest way to check the validity of CSR cards. Card details can be checked instantly, at any time. Users can check information including the expiry date, card type and craft along with qualifications/training completed by the cardholder. The cardholders photograph can also be viewed. A valid search requires a minimum of two pieces of information, one of which must be either the Registration Number or the National Insurance Number. Jonathan Caughey, CSR Scheme Manager commented, “We have been delighted with the response to the online card checker since its launch in March this year. Feedback has been very positive, and the number of uses is increasing daily. We are getting a significant number of checks carried out in GB which highlights the portability of the CSR card throughout GB and Ireland. If you haven’t already used it, try it out and if there are any

issues the team are available on the phone to answer any queries”. The online card checker can be accessed via the banner at the top of CEFNI homepage or at the following link: https://secure.cefni.co.uk/CSRCard/ OnlineCSRCardChecker.aspx

September 2018 version of Procurement Pipeline published

he latest quarterly iteration of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Infrastructure Investment Pipeline was published on 26 September. Members can view the preprocurement and in-procurement reports by accessing the Member Dashboard after entering their login details. Members can also request a copy of the reports by contacting David Fry at davidf@cefni.co.uk The next update of the pipeline is due in January.

HSENI new draft Corporate Plan 2018-2023 published

he Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has published its new draft Corporate Plan following the recent consultation exercise. Whilst still in draft form, HSENI has confirmed that this document will be used to set its priorities until the Minister for the Economy is back in place to consider the draft. The new draft Corporate Plan can be viewed here: https://www.cefni. co.uk/downloads/20181002_HSENI_ Corporate-plan_Final_draft.pdf HSENI has also published a summary (https://www.cefni.co.uk/ downloads/20181002_HSENI_ Corporate_Plan_Summary_of_ consultation_responses_and_ HSENI_comments.pdf) of the various consultation responses, including CEFs. HSENI have noted the majority of comments whilst agreeing to consider the feasibility of: • the suggestion to distinguish between safety and occupational health when presenting statistical trends. • working with CEF on uniform guidance to assist the construction industry in relation to occupational health including mental health awareness

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• HSENI playing a co-ordinating role to ensure the various occupational health services available provide a clear and consistent message. Members should take note of the document and in particular the construction section on page 20 which highlights HSENI’s priorities for construction during the plan’s lifetime.

CEF/BDO State of Trade Survey Results, H1 2018

he latest half-yearly State of Trade survey with our Patronage partners BDO Northern Ireland was published on 10 October.

Overall sentiment • There is a continued frustration at the lack of an NI Executive to make key decisions for the industry - in terms of what businesses felt was the most critical development to aid future success, 65% felt the restoration of Stormont Executive was number one • Much like the last six months of 2017 of those businesses who currently work for the public sector, the majority did not expect to see growth in this area in the next twelve months • Profit margins compared to the previous year have largely been stagnant, with 55% indicating they have stayed the same (positive news on the context of rising costs and labour shortages) and 12% indicating their margins have got slightly better and 25% slightly worse • Unsurprisingly, costs in labour, materials and plant costs were up from 2017, with materials increasing for 91% of businesses and labour costs increasing for 87% of businesses • Expectations for the construction industry over the next 12 months is generally flat, with pessimism slightly outweighing optimism on the immediate future of the industry • These expectations are flipped when asked about expectations for the industry outside of NI with 39% expecting things to get at least a little better • Confidence in individual goals however makes for more optimistic reading, aligning with the most recent QES results which indicated that two-thirds of members expected their own business/ organisation to grow during 2018 • Expectations on future workforce has shown some relatively positive results, with 39% of businesses expecting a growth in their workforce - however this is heavily caveated with the growing shortage of the required labour.

Capitalising on missed opportunities In Feb 2018 more than one quarter of firms (28.3%) were capitalising or preparing for opportunities in off-site construction. An almost

identical number said they were aware of or had claimed R&D tax relief for costs incurred in the process. We asked the question at the time, were the other 71% missing these advantages to aid the development of their businesses? Has this changed in the last six months? Of those surveyed 34% were now capitalising on or preparing for opportunities in offsite construction, a steady increase of 6.5% on the previous half-year results. There was a bigger increase in those businesses who had availed or were aware of R&D tax relief for costs associated with this process, 45.65%, compared to 28% six months ago – lessons definitely learned.

Key findings Business performance and confidence

• More than half of respondents highlighted either growth in turnover or increased profitability as their main priority over the next twelve months • Half of respondents expect profit margins to remain the same in the year ahead • Increases in workforce are expected for 39% of businesses • Increases in labour and material costs are being felt by almost all businesses (91% material costs, 87% labour with an increase plant costs for 74%) • 19% of respondents expect the NI construction industry to remain static in the year ahead, this is a considerable drop from the previous six months where 37.74% expected it to remain static • There has been a growth however in those who feel it will deteriorate with 34% compared to 26% in the previous survey. Capacity • Effective capacity is the maximum amount of work that an organization is capable of completing in a given period due to constraints such as quality problems, delays, material handling etc • Over 60% of businesses worked at full or almost full capacity in the last six months • Only 10% indicated their organisation worked to less than 50% capacity. Skilled labour • Labour shortages has been quoted as a concern going into the next twelve months for the industry as a whole • Competition of higher wages being offered in Dublin, England

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and Scotland are adding further pressures to labour resources available in NI • Limited number of apprentices coming through putting further pressure on the industry. Brexit • Almost a third of companies (34%) have commenced planning for the impact of Brexit • There is optimism amongst businesses that the UK will stay in the current Customs Union with the EU or agree a new Customs Union/ Partnership with 48% confident this will happen • Brexit does not feature as the number one ‘critical’ issue that will determine the future growth of the industry over the next twelve months, with only 12% identifying it as the number one issue (65% restoration of Executive and 14% availability of funding). Other challenges • The vast majority of respondents agree or strongly agree that the continued failure to form a Stormont Executive has resulted in a loss of capital projects/tenders (82%) • Almost two-thirds of firms (60%) believe a lack of finance in the sector is affecting their business – this is slightly down on the previous six months (64%).

Commentary

Sean Lavery, Partner at BDO Northern Ireland said: “The performance of our construction industry has largely hinged on hands-on management, mitigation of risk and making smart decisions. The half-year survey demonstrates that many of our construction firms are continuing to take this approach in the face of many challenges. “The availability of funding is a major issue for many, with lending institutions sighting the construction industry as a higher risk. This lack of funding combined with the absence of an NI Executive is a critical area of concern for the industry with a number of major infrastructure projects delayed and departments unable to approve projects that have funding already allocated. We need to see some clarity going forward in who can make decisions, which will allow these public sector infrastructure projects to commence. “From the respondents there is however a sense of cautious optimism, with many of our businesses confident of growth in their own organisation, specifically

around expected increases in recruitment. This is caveated with the challenge in attracting both skilled and unskilled labour to NI, particularly with the competitive rates in salary currently being offered in ROI. It is imperative that we are able to attract workers who will not only work but also live in NI, contributing to the local economy. “However, it is clear that the industry is continuing to be resilient, with the prioritisation of growth a key indicator of this. This survey provides demonstrable proof that our local businesses are confident in their pursuit of success, however for the long term they need support in decision making and funding to continue to grow.”

John Armstrong, Managing Director of the CEF said: “The concern expressed within the survey as to the urgent need for a fully functioning NI Executive which can take decisions on infrastructure projects large and small is reinforced by the current iteration of the Northern Ireland Executive Departments Procurement Pipeline. “With only 59 schemes inprocurement at the mid-point in the financial year, there is a crisis point coming within the industry. When we also consider that the public sector capital budget is at its highest point since 2007 and several high-profile Executive Flagship schemes are not running to their initial financial plan, there should be an abundance of opportunities for contractors to tender for public works. “This is far from the reality however and when added to the uncertainties of Brexit and rising costs across the board, many of the companies we surveyed now have legitimate concerns as to their forward work pipeline. This is incredibly frustrating given the cautious optimism that many firms had detailed in the survey, so focused as they are on growth and increasing employment. “From our industry’s perspective it is now very clear, to prevent this looming crisis point, the Secretary of State must take action and we await the legislation that has been promised being published”.

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74| INTERVIEW

Specify talks to Eugene Lynch, Managing Director of The McAvoy Group Q: Did you plan to get involved in the Construction Industry?

It was definitely not my intention to work in construction. I wanted to be a Chartered Accountant from a young age as I’d always had more aptitude for figures than anything else. Q: How did you start off?

My first position was with Deloitte Haskins & Sells which is now part of PWC. However, I soon realised I wanted to work in industry which held much more appeal. I moved to the Belfast operation of the Hughes Tool Company – a US manufacturer of drill parts for the oil and gas industries – as Finance Manager. In 1993 I was appointed Managing Director and was responsible for a major restructuring and repositioning of the business. In 1999 I moved to JP Corry Group – one of Northern Ireland’s leading suppliers of building materials and timber products – as Group Operations Director. This was my first involvement in the construction industry. In 2006 following an extensive turnaround and significant performance improvements, the business was sold and subsequently became part of Saint-Gobain Building Distribution. I joined The McAvoy Group in 2007 as Managing Director. The business at that point was a manufacturer of mobile and temporary buildings. Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

I led the repositioning of The McAvoy Group to successfully combine manufacturing and construction. We are now one of the leading offsite construction specialists in the UK and Ireland.

I am proud that we have built on our foundations in Northern Ireland, using local talent and skills, to become a market leader in the UK and Ireland in the provision of health and education buildings. More recently we have expanded into new sectors such as offsite housing and infrastructure. We have enjoyed consistently strong growth – from £15m turnover in 2010 to £60m in 2017 – a four-fold increase in just seven years and we

have ambitious plans to take the business to the next stage in its expansion. Q: What was the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

“Do what you want to do and give it your best. But if what you are doing doesn’t feel right, try something different.” “Make a decision and if you get it half right, you have done really well! For those decisions that proved not to be the best, go back and fix it. Don’t just accept it.” Q: What would you say to any students considering a career in construction?

Construction is a fantastic industry – despite my initial reservations! But it is changing fast and will be a very different industry in the future. There are huge opportunities, particularly for students who are digitally minded and have strong IT skills. Construction will give you a challenging and rewarding career and you can make a real difference to the communities we live and work in. Producing buildings and infrastructure for thousands of people to enjoy is an enormous privilege. I did not see that vision when I was starting out. As an industry we still have to get the work/life balance right. Construction involves a lot of travel and positions are often centralised around large cities which can mean jobs are often far from home. By moving more construction processes offsite and into a manufacturing environment, our colleagues can have a varied career and yet still go home at night. Q: Do you think the Construction Sector needs more support from Stormont?

The Government needs to have the interests of people in Northern Ireland at the centre of everything it does. That will create an environment

for construction and manufacturing and will enhance our local communities. As a business we certainly have more than enough challenges to deal with and we need to be well represented – locally, nationally and globally. Q: What needs to be done to help the Construction Sector?

The construction industry faces significant challenges – low productivity, poor performance in consistent delivery on time and on budget, and a growing shortage of key skills which may be compounded by Brexit. Whilst these issues can be addressed with wider adoption of offsite construction, there are several barriers to change: • There is a clear lack of visibility of pipeline projects which makes it very difficult for offsite manufacturers such as The McAvoy Group to make investment and expansion decisions. Greater collaboration and transparency across the public sector would contribute significantly to investment. Much greater collaboration and earlier engagement are needed.

• Public sector procurement frameworks should be established which use offsite as a credible alternative to site-based construction. • The use of offsite construction should be encouraged and particularly where repeatable design is the dominant factor. This should be reflected in public sector tenders. Q: Tell us something surprising about yourself…

When I said I had no plans to work in construction, I actually said I would never work in construction! The industry held no appeal for me whatsoever. I particularly disliked the approach of getting the job done at any cost – which prevailed at that time. I am pleased to say the industry is now a very different place to 40 years ago and the impact digital and offsite construction are now having are transformational and truly fascinating. Outside of work I am a big fan of Gaelic sport, particularly Gaelic football. www.mcavoygroup.com

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