Specify Magazine July / August 2017 by Greer publications

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

July/august 2017

£3.00

Finalists announced in the 2017 Construction Excellence Awards This year’s Showcase will take place at the IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, the 2016 Overall Winner, on 13 September and will give finalists the opportunity to demonstrate the excellence of their project to customers, suppliers and industry professionals. The winners will be announced at a Gala Evening on 12 October at the Culloden Hotel.

General Construction

Commercial Construction Award

O’Hare & McGovern Belfast Harbour Film Studios QMAC Construction Rivers Agency Headquarters, Cookstown Tracey Brothers Concourse III, Belfast Woodvale Construction LacPatrick Lactex – new dairy technology centre, Strabane

Fit-Out Award

GB & Republic of Ireland Construction Award

Gilbert-Ash The Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London The McAvoy Group Lynch Hill Enterprise Academy, Berkshire GRAHAM Lagan Construction Group Joint Venture Green Port Hull, East Yorkshire Portview Fit-Out LUSH Offices, Beak Street, London

O’Hare & McGovern Castlecourt Offices Refurbishment, Levels 2, 3 & 5, Belfast Barrett Contracts The Lincoln Building Refurbishment, Belfast GRAHAM Interior Fit-Out Dunnes Stores, Forestside, Belfast GRAHAM Interior Fit-Out Cayan, City Quays 1, Belfast

Housing

Restoration Award

Lowry Construction 19-21 Castle Street, Comber Hagan Homes 720-728 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast Donaghmore Construction North Queen Street, Belfast Cunningham Contracts Sloan Street, Lisburn

Lowry Construction Sion Mills Presbyterian Church Mascott Construction (Europe) Portaferry Market House Connolly & Fee Westlight Lighthouse, Rathlin Island O’Hare & McGovern John Bell House, Belfast

Social/Community Construction Award

Brendan Loughran & Sons The Seamus Heaney Interpretive Centre, Bellaghy QMAC Construction Enniskillen Castle Heritage Gateway Redevelopment Farrans Construction Connswater Community Greenway, Belfast JPM Contracts Clonard Boxing Club, Belfast McAleer & Teague Museum of Free Derry

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR:

SPONSORS:

Private Housing Award

Antrim Construction The Hamptons, Portadown DB Building Contracts Harberton (Phase 1) BT9, Belfast Hagan Homes Ilford Park, Crossnacreevy

Social Housing Award

Infrastructure

Health Infrastructure Award

FLYNN Belfast City Hospital Intensive Care Unit McLaughlin & Harvey Omagh Hospital & Primary Care Complex McLaughlin & Harvey Altnagelvin Radiotherapy Unit GRAHAM-BAM Healthcare Partnership Ulster Hospital, Phase B2 Inpatient Ward Block

Education Infrastructure Award

Felix O’Hare & Co Main Site Tower & Peter Froggatt Centre, Queen’s University Belfast O’Hare & McGovern Computer Science Building, Queen’s University Belfast Woodvale Construction Arvalee School and Resource Centre, Omagh Connolly & Fee John Paul II Primary School, Belfast

Transport & Utilities Infrastructure Award

Adman Civil Projects Brockaghboy Wind Farm, Garvagh Adman Civil Projects NIE Cluster Sub Stations Farrans Construction Connswater Community Greenway, Belfast GEDA Construction Holywood Sewer Network

Quality Performance

Health & Safety Award Adman Civil Projects FLYNN Gilbert-Ash Heron Brothers

Training Award

Farrans Construction Adman Civil Projects FLYNN Heron Brothers

Environmental Sustainability Award

Lagan Construction Group Farrans Construction David Jameson Roofing Services Adman Civil Projects

Comment |03 Comment|03

Lessons to be learnt from London

O’HARE & MCGOVERN SCORE TWICE! PATBURNS BURNS PAT Editor Editor PaulBRADWELL Bradwell PAUL SalesManager Manager Sales SUBSCRIPTIONS: SUBSCRIPTIONS: (UK£18.00 £18.00Outside OutsideUK UK£27.50) £27.50) (UK PUBLISHERS: PUBLISHERS: James&&Gladys GladysGreer Greer James

Specifyisispublished publishedby by Specify GreerPublications, Publications, Greer Unit34 34Crescent CrescentBusiness BusinessPark, Park, Unit Lisburn,BT28 BT282GN 2GN Lisburn, Tel:(028) (028)9278 92780108 0108 Tel: Email: Email: Sales Sales paulbradwell@greerpublications.com paulbradwell@greerpublications.com

Editorial Editorial

patburns@greerpublications.com patburns@greerpublications.com

Subscriptions Subscriptions

info@greerpublications.com info@greerpublications.com

DESIGNED DESIGN ShaunByrne, Byrne,Design DesignStics Stics Shaun Tel:(44) (44)7955745731 7955745731 Tel:

For the second year in a row, Newry-based construction company O’Hare & McGovern have taken the ‘Overall Award’ at the Specify CEF The shocking images Construction and terribleExcellence loss of Awards. life from the fire at

Grenfell Tower in London underlined The Awards Gala Evening saw the importance the firm win the awardofforfire prevention andNational the its work on the IFA from repercussions that Football at Windsor event Stadium are bound to Park. The superb new 18,000 effect legislation in the seater its official near stadium future.received The public inquiry determine opening thewill day after the awards the place actual cause of the took at the Culloden Hotel. fire and how it can be It was built within the confines prevented in the future. of the safety existing Windsor Fire expertsPark have which remained that fully operational speculated the throughout thenew 98 week building’s external construction phase, facilitating over 200,000 spectators at 63 international and domestic fixtures. The work involved the demolition of the south and east stands, refurbishment and extension of the north and west stands. OHMG designed curved steel

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 cladding wastime a possible while at the same cause of the rapid mitigating the impact of noise on spread of the fire. neighbouring houses outside the stadium. There are 32 high rise buildings in Our congratulations go to by thethe Northern Ireland, maintained team at OHMG on theirExecutive success. Northern Ireland Housing (NIHE).was A spokesman the NIHE There also someforcheer from commented that, report. “We have robust fire the latest RICS safety regimes andiscarry out regular Building activity still rising inspections in all of our 32 high despite uncertainty in the were rise buildings and inspections economy, completed according recently. to the latest RICSrise (Royal Institution “Our high building design includes fireChartered breaks on every floor - all blocks of Surveyors) and have fire resistant staircases Tughans Northern Irelandwith fire doors and smoke in the Construction Marketalarms Survey. communal areas. Workloads were still rising in the third quarter of the year, according to Northern Ireland surveyors, with only a very modest slowdown in activity relative to Q2. Housebuilding remained a key source of workload growth, with private housebuilding activity rising particularly strongly (a

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

In contrast however, “It would be wrong to speculate as to infrastructure workload the cause of the London fire. We will growth remained weak (+5), await the preliminary findings before and significantly the UK drawing any initial below conclusions. If there average (+17). are lessons to be learned from the investigation we will take those on Looking ahead, Northern Ireland board and as landlord, surveyors area responsible upbeat about the we will undertake any actions prospects for growth, with athat are required to ensure the safety of our net balance of +50% expecting tenants. workloads to arranged be highermeetings in a “We have also 12-month horizon. of the with the manufacturers cladding used on the tower blocks to

receive extra reassurance. Our Infrastructure spending is stillsystem has been rigorously tested and is in relatively low in Northern line withand all relevant regulations.” Ireland the latest developments in the ongoing Pat Burns -Editor York Road Interchange does not inspire confidence for the big government spending projects. Economist John Simpson looks at the Programme for Government Strategic Investment Boards aspirations for next year and beyond… see pages 36 and 37.

Pat Burns Editor

PRINTEDBY BY PRINTED GPS Printers W &G Baird, Antrim Tel:(028) (0)289446 90703911 7747 Tel: www.specifymagazine.co.uk www.specifymagazine.co.uk

All rights reserved. This Magazine is Copyright © GREERS PUBLICATIONS 2017. No part of this publication All rights reserved. This Magazine is Copyright © may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or GREERS PUBLICATIONS 2016. No part of this publication transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or mechanical, photcopying, recording or otherwise without the transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, prior permission of Greer Publications. mechanical, photcopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of Greer Publications.

Certified Circulation

Be wise when you advertise

Look for the ABC stamp of trust. An ABC certificate provides accurate, independently verified circulation figures giving you confidence in your advertising investment. www.abc.org.uk

july/august 2017

contents... 6 7

DIGEST

Quinn Building Products host UN meeting with the Taoiseach.

DIGEST

Lagan Group reports growing demand for its Kingscourt Brick.

DIGEST

Assa Abloy opens new doors in Lisburn.

10 DIGEST

Is Bangor set to become Belfast’s seaside playground?

12 RTU

Specify talks to the team at RTU, which is going from strength to strength.

14 DOORS AND WINDOWS FEATURE:

A new survey shows that dark homes can have an adverse effect on health…

16 INTERVIEW:

Specify talks to John Gibson of Geoghegan Conservatories about the success of their business and plans for the future.

24 MARTIN & HAMILTON

The Ballymena based builders celebrate 50 years of construction in N Ireland.

29 ARCHITECTURE

A local woman scoops a top European architectural award.

32 RICS AWARDS:

Girdwood Community Hub in Belfast is named the RICS Project of the Year.

42 JOHN SIMPSON:

What will a Conservative government propped up by the DUP mean for N Ireland?

58 INTERVIEW

Specify talks to Richard Holmes, The Boss at Springfarm Architectural Mouldings, SAM…

• 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

calorgas.ie

Contents |05

A new survey shows that dark homes can have an adverse effect on health

06 DIGEST

Quinn Building Products host UN meeting with the Taoiseach.

42 JOHN SIMPSON

What will a Conservative government propped up by the DUP mean for N Ireland?

page 14

58 Interview

Specify talks to Richard Holmes, The Boss at Springfarm Architectural Mouldings, SAM…

calorgas.ie

06 06|

digest digest

Quinn Building Products host UN-headed Harvey Groupfollowing acquires Solmatix as part meeting of 5 year delegation Taoiseach An international plan in UK and Ireland. growth delegation, led by the Director for Sustainable NI M&E services Energy of the UNECE (UN Economic Commission Newtownabbey-based for Europe), Scott M&E services company, Foster, has met Harvey Group, has with acquired Irish government Northern Ireland renewable officials including the energy specialists, Taoiseach EndaSolmatix Kenny Renewables in move the and industryabodies companies say will transform regarding plans to the renewable energy sector introduce a sustainable building global in Northern Irelandstandard and act on recent two visit as a a springboard forday further toexpansion Ireland.into the multimillion pound UK and Ireland The delegationenergy includedmarkets. Dr. David renewable Riley, Dr. Somayeh Asadi, and Lisa The acquisition, for an Shulock of Penn State University, undisclosed sum, Partner will bringoftoPraxis, 110 and Robert Cavey, the number of people employed Washington D.C. directly by the Harvey Group in Northern and Greatwas Britain. The group’s Ireland first engagement a meeting Taoiseach, Kenny, Withwith a turnover of Enda £30 million where the details a Global High and over 80 staff,ofHarvey Group Performance Framework has over 30Buildings years’ experience were discussed. The Framework is in the design, installation and being developed by the UNECE, and of building services is maintenance expected to be published in the within months. every conceivable kind of coming Also in attendance building type throughout GB were key stakeholders fromNI, Ireland, and RoI,representatives including Pharmaceutical/ including of Quinn Building Products, SOLAS, nZEBRA Cleanrooms, Laboratories, (nearly ZeroGovernment Energy Buildings), Education, and and Wexford County Council. Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

The Taoiseach was also briefed on plans for the development of an international centre of excellence and the company hastraining grownfacility to achieve a in Wexford. The development turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff is being spearheaded operating from its were Nutt’s Corner by nZEBRA, who premises. represented by Andrew As a result of the deal, Solmatix Lundberg, Tomas O’Leary and will to operate as an Artcontinue McCormack. The project isand supported autonomous independent by the UNECE company within and Harvey Group Wexford Countymanaging Council, director Brian Harvey, and construction of Harvey Group, on saidthe there was new centre is hoped to a perfect fit between the two commence in 2018 at the organisations. new Enniscorthy Innovation “We have been planning to Park. Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). Thesome delegation then attended for time, either organically Kevin Lunney, Quinn Building Products, Andrew Lundberg, nZebra and Enda Kenny TD as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, a dinner and or through thenetworking acquisition of an customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey evening hosted by Quinn established player. Having worked “In many it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise Building Products, where international delegation. We’re focus for us,respects, and we welcome with Solmatix Renewables on attendees had the opportunity to of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to committed to working with all the opportunity to demonstrate a number of contracts, we’d discuss further the Framework and stakeholders to improve building leadership through our association real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. always been withtraining plans for theimpressed international standards andand to Solmatix position with such ventures. organisation will give” us access to “Harveyhere, Group their engineering rigour andBuilding centre. Speaking of Quinn Irelandsimilar as a leading centre forI high enhanced technical skills, financial share values, by which mean professionalism. In fact, of there Products’ sponsorship the seemed event, performance buildings. resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, to be aLunney, naturalChief synergy betweenOfficer, Kevin Operating The delegation’s itinerary also included Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to said: our two companies in terms of We’re seeing a real move towards site visits to Ireland’s first certified to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, andinthe sustainable building practices the passive house social-housing project what we do and how we do it. I “We’re delighted to Bell support within our operations, as Bennett well as & Irish construction industry, with high importance we place on treating our constructed by Michael approached Richard aboutthe a development of sustainable building demand forour more energyand efficient Sons, jobs and the siteIt’s forathe more and proposed job security. customers, suppliers our staff year ago to float the idea of our standards here in Ireland, and on building design,and andconsideration. nZEB regulations new international training centre in win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy ” companies coming together, butthe only a global level, through hosting coming into force. It’s a key area of Wexford. for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and if there was a good fit. After careful well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix consideration we both agreed Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that this would indeed be mutually

company acquires renewable energy specialists

RICS Diploma awards

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction Newly qualified members of RICS (Royal contract at Randox Science Park Institution of Chartered Surveyors), the leading qualification when it comes to professionalism in land, property, construction, received their diplomas from Fiona Grant, RICS UK & Ireland Chair at a ceremony in the La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Belfast.

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high RICS accredits 125,000 qualified quality projects, tAL Limited and trainee professionals around the been world.awarded Its members are known has a significant as chartered surveyors and are contract (£3.1m) by global recognised by the designation medical diagnostics company after their name: MRICS (Member Randox. of RICS), FRICS (Fellow of RICS) ThisAssocRics initial contract is for the and (Associate of RICS). construction a newprofessional facility for RICS is the of global

production of Randox’s pioneering 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 ‘Randox Science Park’ – a futuristic R&D and manufacturing facility. The award-winning, international biotechnology firm, unveiled its plans for an innovative hub on the 43 acre site earlier this year. Welcoming the announcement, body promoting and enforcing Damien Hughes, Director of TAL the highest commented: international standards in Limited “We are the valuation, management and delighted to have been awarded

development of land, real estate,

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, Rainey & Best, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller construction and infrastructure. Consulting Engineers and Charles To left of Consulting. Ms Grant is Lynn Taylor, Hutchison MRICS, chair of RICS Matrics Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

Northern Ireland and to the right

CONCRETE FUTURES NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

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 new job creation. We very much look forward to working with isTAL Andy Tough FRICS, Chair, RICS on this initial contract to deliver Northern Ireland. the high quality infrastructure we require.”

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management. Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

06|

digest digest

|07

Lagan Group Company reports Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year growth plan in UK and Ireland. growing demand from SMEs Kingscourt Brick, part of NI M&E services the Lagan Group, one ofNewtownabbey-based Northern Ireland’s largest construction M&E services company, companies, seen Harvey Group,has has acquired a marked increase Ireland renewable inNorthern demand for its energy specialists, Solmatix clay brick products, with ordersinrising Renewables a move the significantly small companies say from will transform and medium (SME) sized the renewable energy sector housebuilders across the in Northern Ireland and act UK and Ireland. as a springboard for further The only brick into manufacturing facility expansion the multionmillion the island of Ireland, Kingscourt pound UK and Ireland Brick, employs 30 peoplemarkets. and is well renewable energy positioned for the upturn in demand The acquisition, for an with the option of opening a second undisclosed sum, will bring to 110to kiln to supply additional clay facings the number of people employed customers. directly Harveybrick Group in The need by forthe increased supply Ireland and Great Britain. is Northern being driven by the housing shortage the UK Government’s Withand a turnover of £30 million target of building one millionGroup new and over 80 staff, Harvey homes by 2020, the equivalent has over 30 years’ experienceof 200,000 homes installation per year. This in the design, andlevel of construction has not been achieved in maintenance of building services a decade. within conceivable of The brickevery making industry inkind Ireland building type throughout NI, GB and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

company acquires renewable energy specialists

and the UK has gone through considerable the company change in the has last grown decadeto achieve a with several factories turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff closing during operating fromthe its Nutt’s Corner recession and have not premises. been As reopened. a result ofIndustry the deal, Solmatix experts believe that brick will continue to operate as an making capacity between autonomous andis independent Ireland and UK now no company Harvey more thanwithin 2bn bricks perGroup BrianThis Harvey, managing annum. represents a director reduction 30% of of Harvey of Group, saidprethere was manufacturing arecession perfect fit between the two capacity. organisations. Commenting, Seamus “We have been planning to Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Holland, General Manager grow our renewables involvement Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). at Kingscourt Brick said, for time, either organically “Wesome are delighted with as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition of an levels of demand and customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey established Having worked are currentlyplayer. reaching Workers at the Kingscourt Brick factory in Co Cavan, the only brick manufacturing facility on the “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Solmatix Renewables full capacity with the one on island of Ireland. of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to tunnel kiln and expect a number of contracts, we’d real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. in the near to with always beenfuture impressed organisation will give accessontothe “Harvey and Solmatix announce the opening capacity on Group to the market. ” remains the only suchusfacility their engineering rigour and of the second tunnel kiln. We will In 2015 the Lagan Group reinvested island of Ireland with the all island enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean professionalism. In fact, there seemed continue to review current and in brick manufacturing to support the market previously being serviced resources and purchasing power. by our commitment to professionalism, to be a natural between forecast demandsynergy levels and when upturn in the housebuilding sectortoin imports. Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services our two companies the time is right we in willterms bringofextra both Ireland and the UK. The factory 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 good with courtesy and consideration.” companies coming together, but only for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and if there was a good fit. After careful well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix consideration we both agreed Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that this would indeed be mutually stone contractors and the Mourne Heritage Trust to assess the sympathetic construction methods employed, with a production of Randox’s pioneering this contract with Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The view to developing medical diagnostic products and will Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science a wider 4-year also include of associated administrative and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create programme functions. The works are the first and global level. Through the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve work. ” “To repair phase of a certain major capital expenditure of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export sections of Randox the project by to develop the professionalism of our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to Mourne Wall, it former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art will be necessary into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of to transport stone Desmond Patterson - Mourne Heritage Trust, Helen Anderson, Director, Natural Environment NIEA, futuristic R&D and manufacturing the strength of our expertise in the research, development and other material DAERA, Iain Greenway Historic Environment Division Departmentcutting-edge for Communities, Councillor Garth facility. The award-winning, sector. ” Down Council, Michael Donnelly, and diagnostic covering to site where Craig Deputy Chair healthcare Newry Mourne and Dermottmanufacture, McCurdy (both NI itinternational is not readily Water) and Eugene McKenna from GEDA the launchsuch of the of the biotechnology firm, The project will beConstruction delivered pictured atconditions asrestoration cancer, stroke and Wall. available. will for anMourne unveiled This its plans innovative to BIM level 2 in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a be through hubdone on the 43 acre site earlier this with the design team Ostick and significant boost to the local economy of all our stakeholders, as we strive added: carefully planned year. Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, through job creation. We very to protect the integrity of one of “The wallnew crosses 15 mountains helicopter drops to agreed locations Welcoming the announcement, Doran Consulting, & Waller much look forward range to working with Northern Ireland’s Delap most iconic listed across the Mourne and took within the Mournes area.” Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Consulting Engineers and Charles monuments. ” TAL on this initial contract to deliver approximately 18 years to build, with “This is a significant investment by completion of the original wallwe in Limited “We are to Hutchison Consulting. the high quality infrastructure NI Watercommented: and we look forward Councillor Craig,Managing Deputy Chair 1922. ” ” working and gaining the support delightedwith to have been awarded Dr PeterGarth FitzGerald, require. of Newry Mourne and Down Council

NI Water to Commence Major Restoration Project for the Mourne Wall

NI Water is about to commence work to restore parts of the historic Mourne Wall, which will benefit the scenic Mournes area.

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

The first phase of work will see the restoration of a 2.5km section of the Mourne Wall between Slieve Loughshannagh and Slieve Meelmore which is surrounded by NI Water land. Local experienced stonemasons will carry out the repairs under the management of NI Water contractor, GEDA Construction with advice and guidance from Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT). This project is part of NI WItH a reputation for Water’s commitment to the ‘Protocol excellence in the constructing for the Care of Governmenthigh quality Estates. projects, tAL Limited Historic has beenMcCurdy awarded significant Dermott NI aWater’s Project Sponsor said: contract (£3.1m) by global “During first phase of the medicalthis diagnostics company restoration of the wall, NI Water will Randox. be working closely with the Northern This Environment initial contractAgency, is for the Ireland our construction of a new facility forlocal contractor GEDA Construction,

CONCRETE FUTURES NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management. Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

06| 08

digest digest

WINNERS RIBA NORTHERN Harvey Group OF acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year growth plan inAWARDS UK and Ireland. IRELAND 2017 REVEALED NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

Two buildings have Newtownabbey-based won a RIBA Northern M&E services company, Ireland Award 2017 and Harvey Group, has acquired will now go forward toNorthern compete for renewable a RIBA Ireland National Award, the energy specialists, Solmatix most highlyin regarded Renewables a move the architecture in the companies say prize will transform UK. the renewable energy sector

in Northern Ireland and act The winning buildings are: as a springboard for further into the multi• expansion Fallahogey Studio, Kilrea, by million pound UK and McGarry Moon Architects Ireland energy markets. •renewable Ballymena Health & Care Centre by Keppie Design andforHoskins The acquisition, an Architects undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 the number of people employed Falahogey Studio directly by the Harvey Group in Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Fallahogey Studio was designed With a turnover of £30 million by McGarry Moon Architects to and over 80 staff, Group accommodate their Harvey small but growing has over years’ practice in 30 Kilrea. Theexperience practice is ledin by andand Steven theJessica design,McGarry installation Moon who haveofcreated shortest maintenance buildingthe services commute to work by setting theof within every conceivable kind new studiotype within the garden building throughout NI,of GBtheir home – an award winning project and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ itself. Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government The studio was completedand in Healthcare Richard and NorahJanuary 2017 .for £160,000. Its simple Anne founded Solmatix form andBell weathered steel cladding references the inmetal sheds Renewables 2008,skinned and since then seen across the local countryside. The judges said, “This is a precisely crafted, confident and delightful building which provides a series of beautiful spaces for its users, engages with its site and local context, and which clearly demonstrates the ‘cando’ attitude, enthusiasm and evident skill of its architects.”

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 grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on a number of contracts, we’d always been impressed with their engineering rigour and professionalism. In fact, there seemed to Ballymena be a natural synergy Health andbetween Care Centre our two companies in terms of and controlled what we do anddetailing how we do it. I correspondsRichard with anBell about a approached assured restrained year agoand to float the idea of our selection of materials, companies coming together, but only resulting in a building ifthat there good fit.to After careful haswas the apotential consideration we both endure and develop as agreed a that this would be mutually key element of indeed the town’s public realm.”

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, our desire to deliver our services to the very highest standards, and the importance we place on treating our customers, our suppliers and our staff 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 real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

Comment Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction Ciarán Fox, Director of the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA), said, contract at Randox Science Park

Ballymena Health and Care Centre The Ballymena Health and Care Centre was completed in November 2016 at a cost of £14m. The project was designed through collaboration between two large Scottish practices, Keppie Design and Hoskins Architects, WItH followinga areputation competitionfor by Northern excellence in constructing Ireland’s department for health.high quality projects, tAL Limited The been big challenge in the design was has awarded a significant how best to accommodate both NHS contract (£3.1m) by global and Council run services alongside medical diagnostics company six GP practices in order to make Randox. the services more integrated and This initial is for the accessible tocontract the community. construction of a“Externally, new facilitysimple for The judges said,

“What this of year’s awardpioneering production Randox’s this contract with Randox, one of winners demonstrate most and will medical diagnostic products Northern Ireland’s most dynamic clearly is that it doesn’t also include associated administrative and exciting businesses on a local matter if the overall project functions. The works are the first and global level. Through the quality budget is small or large, phase majorincapital our work FallahogeyofStudio, Kilreaand the dedication and it paysoftoainvest good expenditure design.” by Randox to develop the project professionalism of our team TAL has former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 years “I congratulate all the architects “Architecture impactsPark’ on all into ‘Randox Science – aour lives. and award that this werecontract shortlisted forreinforces the RIBA At its best it results in projects like futuristic R&D and manufacturing the strength of our expertise in the Northern Ireland Awards 2017. these which enhance our landscape. facility. The award-winning, healthcare sector. ” The two winners stood out and I Here we have one project providing wish every as they go international biotechnology firm, Thethem project willsuccess be delivered an uplifting place of work and the forward to the wide awards.” unveiled its plans innovative to BIM level 2 inUK partnership other a vital rangeforofan caring services in a bright, healthy and vibrant hub on the 43 acre site earlier this with the design team Ostick and environment. We hope these projects year. Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, Jury canWelcoming help inspire private sector, thethe announcement, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller The 2017 jury for Northern Ireland government departments and our Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Consulting Engineers Charles consisted of architectsand Kieran local councils to put design quality Limited commented: arebuilding Hutchison McGonigle Consulting. (McGonigle McGrath), at the centre of their“We future Alastair HallFitzGerald, (Hall McKnight) and Jane delighted Dr Peter Managing plans.” to have been awarded Larmour (Arigho Larmour Wheeler

CONCRETE FUTURES NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

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 Architects). The This lay judge was world world markets. state-of-the-art renowned artist Colin Davidson. premises will become a centre of cutting-edge What nextresearch, development and diagnostic manufacture, covering The two Northern Ireland Award winners willsuch nowasbecancer, considered conditions stroke for anda highly-coveted RIBAwill National Awarda heart disease. We also provide in recognition of to their significant boost thearchitectural local economy excellence, the results of which will through new job creation. We very be announced in June. The shortlist much working with for thelook RIBAforward Stirlingto Prize for the best TAL on this initial contract to deliver building of the year will be drawn the high infrastructure we from the quality RIBA National Awardwinning require.”buildings later in the year.

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management. Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

06|

digest digest

|09

ASSA OPENING THE OF HarveyABLOY Group acquires Solmatix as DOORS part of 5 year OPPORTUNITY growth plan in UK IN andLISBURN Ireland.

The Lisburn economy is to receive a welcome NIboost M&E jobs withservices an investment of £1.8 Newtownabbey-based million from ASSA M&E services company, ABLOY Security Doors, Group, has aHarvey UK division of acquired ASSA Northernthe Ireland renewable ABLOY, global energy in specialists, Solmatix leader door opening solutions. Renewables in a move the companies say will transform

The of £1.8 million will theinjection renewable energy sector create 27 new jobs bringing the in Northern Ireland and act workforce total to 132 and is as a springboard for further part of the company’s ambitious expansion the multigrowth plans into to create a Centre million pound UK Ireland of Excellence for doorand production atrenewable the Lisburnenergy plant. markets. The acquisition, for anCity Lisburn & Castlereagh Council’s Chairman the to 110 undisclosed sum, willofbring Development the number ofCommittee, people employed Councillor welcomes directly byUel the Mackin Harvey Group in the expansion: “We are proud Northern Ireland and Great Britain. of our strong manufacturing a turnover of £30 million baseWith in Lisburn Castlereagh and andour overexcellent 80 staff, Harvey Group with location and has over 30 years’ experience infrastructure we are not surprised in the installation that we design, are home to so and many first-class manufacturing sites. maintenance of building services Congratulations to ASSAkind ABLOY’s within every conceivable of team in Lisburn on their NI, latest building type throughout GB growth and I am confident that and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ they will achieve their aspirations Laboratories, forCleanrooms, future development across the Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

globe.” Speaking about the expansion, Managing Director at ASSA ABLOY the company has grown to achieve a Security Doors, Brian Sofley, turnover of £6 million, with said: “We are extremely 30 staff operating its Nutt’s Corner proud of from our facilities premises. here in Lisburn and our management are Solmatix As a result ofteam the deal, committed developing will continue to to operate as an our businessand in the Lisburn autonomous independent Castlereagh area. There is company within Harvey Group a real appetite from our Brian Harvey, managing director group to invest in our of Harveyplans Group, was growth forsaid thethere future aand perfect fit between the two to create a Centre organisations. of Excellence for door production UKplanning and theto “We have in been current of growth grow ourperiod renewables involvement places oneeither step closer for someustime, organically to through this. Asthe theacquisition business of an or expands we are keen to established player. Having worked offer skilled apprenticeships and to with Renewables on local workSolmatix with the Council and acollege, numberSERC, of contracts, we’d our plans to ensure always been impressed with will benefit the local economy. their and “Weengineering are part ofrigour the ASSA ABLOY groupInemploying professionalism. fact, there 45,000 seemed worldwide, currently ranked in to be a natural synergy between the two top companies 100 most ininnovative our terms of companies by Forbes, ourI what we do and how weand do it. plant in Lisburn is an integral part approached Richard Bellan about a of this success. With impressive year ago to float the idea of our portfolio of projects including

company acquires renewable energy specialists

companies coming together, but only if there was a good fit. After careful consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

Dr. Theresa Donaldson, Chief Executive of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council;

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Brian Sofley, Managing Director, ASSA ABLOY Security Door Group and Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

Councillor Uel Mackin, Chairman of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council’s

beneficial. FromCommittee. my perspective, Development having Solmatix as part of Harvey The Shard, the Olympic Stadium, Group gives Airport us a leveland of expertise Heathrow multiple that taken us years to siteswould acrosshave London Underground, acquire we areotherwise. raising the profile of the Lisburn Castlereagh across “Harvey Group and area Solmatix the world alsobyproviding share similarand values, which I mean employment andto investment for our commitment professionalism, the local economy,” he concluded. our desire to deliver our services to Based in Ferguson Drive Lisburn, the veryABLOY highest Security standards,Doors and the ASSA importance we place on and treating our designs, manufactures installs customers, our suppliers and our staff bespoke high performance steelcourtesy doors and for ” with and windows consideration. Richard Bell, the founder and managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

as great news for Solmatix, its customers, suppliers and staff. commercial and custodial “In many respects, it’s a case markets. They offer the UK’s of ‘business as usual’. However, in leading range of proven security real terms, being part of Steel this larger doors – Powershield Doors organisation will Timber give us access and Safeguard Doorsto and all the precision enhanced technical skills,made financial doors areand supplied withpower. factoryresources purchasing fitted hardware and installed Ultimately I believe this will lead by skilled teams of directly to greater growth and investment employed site personnel, who within operations, in as today’s well as are allour experienced more jobs and procedures. job security. It’s a construction 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, Rainey & Best, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller Consulting Engineers and Charles Hutchison Consulting. 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 new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

RIBA-Approved CPD from Metal Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction Technology contract at Randox Science Park ‘Windows Selection: A Specifier’s Guide’, from leading aluminium systems company, Metal Technology, has been added to the list of RIBAapproved CPD seminars.

The revised and updated CPD presentation allows architects to WItH a reputation for systems assess aluminium window excellence constructing in terms of in material, functionhigh and the latest performance values and quality projects, tAL Limited standards required for modern has been awarded a significant buildings. Specification guidelines contract (£3.1m) by global include the correct window and medical diagnostics company door Security Standards and an Randox. overview of glass selection to This initial contract is for the complement security, thermal construction of a new facility for

performance, solar control production of Randox’s pioneering and acoustics. medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative

Gordon McCaw from functions. The works are the first Metal Technology, phase of a major capital commented: “Over theexpenditure projectthis by Randox develop the years seminartohas former Massereene Army Barracks become an essential part of continuous intoarchitects’ ‘Randox Science Park’ – a learning and we futuristic R&D andare manufacturing delighted it is now facility. Thethat award-winning, been assessed and international biotechnology firm, approved by RIBA for unveiled its plans for” an innovative professional CPD. hub on the 43 acre site earlier this

year.further information, For contact ShauntheGreene Welcoming announcement, on +44(0) 2894487777 Damien Hughes, Director of TAL or shaun.greene@ Limited commented: “We are metaltechnology.com. delighted to have been awarded

CONCRETE FUTURES NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management. Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

06| 10|

digest digest

Bangor to be Belfast’s ‘seaside Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year growth plan in UK and Ireland. playground?’

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, has acquired 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 part of Harvey 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 Solmatix Renewables on Northern Ireland and Great Britain. of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d With a turnover of £30 million 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 to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our approached Richard Bell about a and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff year ago to float the idea of our Cleanrooms, Laboratories, win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy and consideration. ” companies coming together, but only Education, Government and for our whole organisation, as the founder and HemingwayDesign if there wasGordon, a goodfestival fit. After carefulOpen HouseRichard Healthcare . Richard andOpen NorahKieran Gilmore, director, House Festival, Alison manager, FestivalBell, & Wayne Hemingway, well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix consideration we both agreed Anne Bell founded Solmatix involved. We’ve worked with a team of Culture bid following his role in extension to the rear, housing a multiBangor has theand potential Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that this would indeed be mutually Renewables in 2008, since then with architects to enhance what has Derry’s successful 2016 bid, and has purpose performance space. to be Belfast’s Brighton. already been done so that it’s in the “The best way to create successful That’s the view of Wayne now also turned his sights on Bangor. right scale for Bangor. Karl Construction approached Mr seaside regeneration is to create Hemingway MBE, the That includes keeping business in Hemmingway after hearing him spaces for interesting things to creator of iconic brand mind. speak at an event on regeneration happen,” Mr Hemmingway said. “If you Red or Dead, and “In the regeneration area we’ve put in Craigavon and invited him to visit create spaces where people can bring now the man behind lanes - similar to those you’d find Bangor. their events or festivals the money will urban design company in Brighton - where independent “When we came over for the first follow. HemingwayDesign. production of Randox’s pioneering contract Randox,can one of Director at Randox commented: retailers and with restaurants grow. time we were blown away, ” he said. “It this “If they come to a place they fall“The in We’ve given it an independent spirit. ” was a sunny day and when we walked love with it, invest in it, set up shop in medical diagnostic products and will Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science He was in the County Down town Andexciting he said businesses the potential around the town we saw a completely and it andis regenerate ” also include associated administrative on regeneration a local Park core to ourit.plans to create to team up with the Karl Group, of the old level. courthouse in Bangor has unspoilt town. Kieran Gilmore, OpentoHouse Festival functions. The works are the first and global Through the quality innovative diagnostics, improve who are working in a joint venture been a big help. “We looked at historical pictures Director, said it is exciting to have with Farrans to submit a tender for phase of a major capital expenditure of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export “This bookends it. We couldn’t where there was a beach and people someone of the calibre of Wayne the redevelopment and re-imagining project by Randox to realised develop what the professionalism our team TAL hasthe high-value healthcare capabilitiestoto believe our luckofwhen we realised diving into pools and Hemingway turn his attentions of Queen’s Parade and the Marine former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art people who run the Open House could happen. It helped that the initial Bangor. Gardens. Festival hopefully regenerating outline planning for the development into ‘Randox Science Park’ –a and this are contract award reinforces the “We are will verybecome keen toahear his of premises centre “Bangor can be to Belfast what courthouse. was nothing short of brilliant thinking. ” ideas for the town, and to see how futuristic R&D and manufacturing the strength of our expertise in the cutting-edge research, development Brighton is to London,” he said. “It’s 20 “It’s a perfect fit.”” “We walked around to Pickie Park the diagnostic Court House could dovetail WItH a reputation forthe seaside facility. The award-winning, healthcare sector. and manufacture, covering mins away and should be Open House Festival has submitted and picked up the sense that it’s a with that vision,” he said. “With excellence in the constructing high” playground for people of Belfast. international biotechnology firm, The project will be delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and an application to the Heritage Lottery traditional seaside town then walked the Court House and the Queen’s HemingwayDesign has been heavily quality projects, tAL Limited unveiled its plans forand an realised innovative to BIMfor level 2 in to partnership heart We willboth also potentially provide a Fund £3.1m restore and around the corner the Paradedisease. development involved in awarded seaside town regeneration has been a significant hub onwere the 43 acre site earlier this with the design teamcourt Ostickhouse. and significant boost tonear the future, local economy develop the former views fantastic happening in the we have throughout(£3.1m) the UK, including major contract by global year. Williams Architects,music Raineyand & Best, through new job creation. We very The Bangor-based arts With that, it didn’t take much a once in a lifetime opportunity to projects in Margate, Bournemouth and medical diagnostics company charity Consulting, plans to restore existing convincing. turn Bangor’s fortunes around. We Welcoming the announcement, Doran Delapthe & Waller much look forward to working with Lowestoft. building to Engineers its former and glory, providing “It soonHughes, becameDirector clear thisofisTAL the would work with someone Randox. Damien Consulting Charles TAL onlove this to initial contract to deliver Wayne Hemmingway has been permanentConsulting. office space for the best potential coastal“We regeneration as visionary as Wayne Hemingway This initialUrban contract is for the Limited commented: are Hutchison the high quality infrastructure we to appointed Design Champion festival team and other local creative project we’ve seen in a long time and ensure that we seize the opportunities construction of a new facility for for the City of Perth’s 2021 UK City delighted to have been awarded Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.” companies, with an ambitious new we realised we really did want to get in front of us.”

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

CONCRETE FUTURES NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management. Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

Quality Precast Solutions for Building and Civil Construction

Swiss Facades

COMMISSIONINg

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

Transforming Exterior Facades

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

MAINTENANCE

Premium Swiss Quality Panel Systems for High End Architecture

GAS

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

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

Flogas goes far beyond simply managing and supplying bulk and cylinder LP Gas requirements. Choosing LP Gas from Flogas not only opens the door to a versatile, highly efficient energy source with affordable installation and running costs – we create and implement tailored energy solutions specific to client applications. Our experience covers a comprehensive range of markets including domestic (both single dwelling and metered estates), catering, commercial, industrial, agricultural and automotive.

PAVInG Supplying Northern Ireland's leading architect and builders Acheson & Glover has been in business for more than 50 years. As well as in-depth experience we offer the widest range of concrete products in the UK and Ireland - from manhole covers to decorative walling and paving. Then there’s our unique range of problem solvers:

• • • • • •

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

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

Offering unrivalled customer service and producing in excess of 300 JCB is ranked within the world’s top 3 manufacturers of construction Flogas RTU LTd

Cloughfern Avenue, Newtownabbey, BT37 0UZ

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

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

specialist knowledge covering all sectors Including Industrial, Commercial, Hospitality Agriculture, and Domestic. We offer our customer

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

Calor Accredited CP programme available Content includes LP Product Knowledge, gas Regulations and Standards. Courses are FREE of charge an available by arrangemen with one of our Calor machines, Business Development equipment. Engineers. Contact cpd@calorgas.ie

Established in 1971, BC Plant JCB is the sole authorised JCB dealership for Northern Ireland and T: +44 (0)28 9085 1441 Donegal. E: info@rtu.co.uk www.rtu.co.uk

With two depots located within Northern Ireland (Hillsborough & Limavady) BC Plant JCB provides a wide range of product and service offerings to best suit the needs of your business.

• New & Used Machine Sales • Access Equipment • Power Generation • Servicing • Genuine JCB Parts Hillsborough Depot: Old Coach Road Hillsborough Co. Down BT26 6PB Tel: 02892682573 Fax: 02892682929

W: www.bcpjcb.com

Limavady Depot: Unit 4, Windyhill Retail Park Windyhill Road Limavady BT49 0RA T: 02877766999 Fax: 02877765675

E: sales@bcpjcb.com

12 | RTU

RTU LTD – GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

From a small company set up at the home farm in Parkgate in 1990 producing ready mix concrete, RTU is now a hugely successful company working out of a purpose-built manufacturing plant in Newtownabbey. In 1992 RTU introduced its first new product to the market – factory produced mortar – which was the first product of its kind in Northern Ireland and is referred to as “tubbed mortar”. It is still part of the product portfolio today, and RTU is still the largest supplier of tubbed mortar in Northern Ireland. By 1998 the production requirements had outgrown the farm, and RTU moved to a new state of the art production plant in Newtownabbey, closer to their Greater Belfast market. The new site also allowed them easy access to the M2, thus making the transport of their products much easier.

The company continued to prosper until the recession hit in 2007, after which RTU experienced 7 difficult years within the construction industry. Although they did not display huge profits between 2007 and 2013, the company was able to survive the poor economic environment. In 2008 David and Daniel bought their father’s shares in the business, making them the 2 Directors and major shareholders in the company. Also in 2008, RTU introduced Ultraflo, a revolutionary calcium sulphate liquid floor screed, the first liquid floor screed to be introduced to the Northern Ireland market. Ultraflo is a unique product and gives enormous benefits, including improved energy efficiency, when used with underfloor heating. In 2013 the company introduced a second new product, Exposa decorative concrete, which again was the first product of its kind in Northern Ireland. Exposa provided RTU with another product extension and in turn new market opportunities. Thankfully in 2013/14, signs of

growth were starting to show in the Northern Ireland Construction sector. For more than 20 years, David and Daniel McIlroy have been dedicated to RTU and it is thanks to their business acumen, entrepreneurial skills and a great team of employees, that the company is now achieving targeted growth. Their extensive knowledge of the market led to the introduction of the two new products – Ultraflo and Exposa. When the market showed an upturn, the brothers quickly realized that further change was needed to secure the future of this family business. In 2015, they created a 3-year growth strategy (2015 – 2018) which is currently being rolled out. In addition to re-structuring the company, RTU made a commitment to staff through improved training and the implementation of best practices in People Management to ensure individuals are properly motivated towards achieving goals and objectives. Three other siblings now also work in the business, along with David’s son, which is part of their integrated succession plan.

RTU is now once again prospering within its industry and is a market leader and the first-choice provider for most of Northern Ireland’s leading architects, construction companies and builders. The full product range now on offer, including concrete, decorative concrete, mortars, plasters and floor screeds, also makes RTU a popular choice for the self-builder, being able to offer a complete building package. The company prides itself in the first-class service it provides and this has also secured their position as an industry leader. With a dedicated sales and technical team, supported by a logistics team, you are guaranteed that your product will arrive on site when you need it to be there. RTU has also invested heavily in its modern, computerised batching plant, where highly trained staff ensure the constant production of quality products across the range. A factory production control system ensures conformity to the relevant British and European standards, and all products are manufactured using carefully selected high quality

RTU | 13 Product Portfolio Mortar: Factory produced mortar delivered to site ready to use with either 8 or 36 hour set-retarder. Guaranteed quality and strength, providing greater consistency than site mixed mortar. Coloured Mortar: As mortar joints constitute 20% of the surface area of brick faĂ§ade, coloured mortar can make a dramatic impact on final appearance at a minimal additional cost. A range of colours available, sample kits can be provided to aid colour selection. Concrete: Ready mix concrete supplied according to customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design mix. Range of specialist concrete solutions also available including pumped, air-entrained, fibre re-enforced, waterproofed, eco-friendly and foamed.

FLEET AND NEWTOWNABBEY PLANT

Plaster: Suitable for internal render, external render, permeability-reducing render, polymer modified render, scud mix and coloured render.

ULTRAFLO HEMIHYDRATE CALCIUM SULPHATE LIQUID FLOOR SCREED aggregate, cements and admixtures. The products are then precisely batched by weight, ensuring consistent high quality products. RTU concrete carries the prestigious British Standard Kitemark, and their plants are third party accredited by BSI. The company is also a member of the Mortar Industry Association. A further product extension, the RTU Concrete Conveyor Lorry introduced in 2016, assists in placing

CONCRETE CONVEYOR LORRY

concrete into difficult to reach areas on site. The concrete is dispatched from the lorry along a conveyor arm which has an 11 metre line of sight reach from the back of the lorry. This means concrete can easily be placed directly into foundations, subfloors, slurry pits, silos, shuttered walls or formwork. This in turn saves time as it minimises manual handling and labour requirements on site. There is also no need for additional hired

equipment such as concrete pumps, skips or dumpers. RTU is a visionary company with a firm plan to further develop the business throughout the UK and Ireland. It is still a family run business, and a local success story for Northern Ireland. David and Daniel are looking forward to the future and all the challenges and rewards it has to offer.

Floor Screed: Range of traditional and highperformance screeds produced in a range of strengths. Available as sand/cement, fibre, polymer modified and quick drying. Accurate mix proportions, excellent cement dispersion, ensuring uniform compression strength throughout. Ultraflo hemihydrate screed: A unique hemihydrate calcium sulphate liquid floor screed designed to be used with underfloor heating. Minimal shrinkage and cracking, eco-friendly, improved heat responsiveness with underfloor heating, reduced heat lag delay and reduced energy costs. Exposa decorative concrete: A durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to paving, tarmac, asphalt and loose gravel. Durable, slip resistant finish available in a wide selection of colours and textures suitable for driveways, pathways, patios, promenades and large pedestrian zones

Let the light shine in! A new survey shows that dark homes can have an adverse effect on health…

amp and dark homes across the UK are having a direct impact on the levels of serious health conditions being reported, according to a new report by leading roof window manufacturer Velux.

This Velux Healthy Homes Barometer highlights a clear correlation between poor housing stock and ill-health in all countries across Europe. UK residents living in dark homes are revealed to be 27% more likely to report poor health conditions including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In addition, people living in unhealthy buildings in the UK with damp are 34% more likely to be suffering from health conditions. Across Europe, one in six households are currently living in an “unhealthy” (meaning damp or mouldy) building, increasing their chances of illness by 66%. Developed in collaboration with Ecofys, a Navigant company, Fraunhofer IBP, and Copenhagen Economics, the Velux Healthy Homes Barometer examines the effects of housing on the health of people living in countries across Europe, along with the associated costs to society and ways to tackle the problem. On the back of the findings, Velux is calling for buildings to become more energy efficient and for the UK’s housing stock to be brought up to par. Grant Sneddon, Product Manager at Velux-GBI said: “We know instinctively that living in unhealthy surroundings is bad for our health. This study reveals to just what extent those in the UK and Europe are suffering on account of their homes; and also the staggering financial costs to society of not bringing our aging housing stock up to par.” Europeans living in an “unhealthy” building are more than 1.5 times (66%) more likely to report poor health, and 40% more likely to suffer from asthma, as those who do not. Meanwhile, Europeans who suffer energy poverty - meaning they are unable to keep their homes comfortably warm in winter - are twice as likely to report poor health and nearly three times more likely to report damp in the home. The costs of unhealthy buildings are not just felt by individuals either. The overall (direct and indirect) costs to European governments and societies of just two of the many diseases associated with damp living environments – asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – reach a staggering EUR 82 billion per year. One solution is to modernise Europe’s existing buildings through energy efficient and healthy renovations. This would not only lead to improved health outcomes, lower societal costs and reduced CO2 emissions, but would also provide a much-needed catalyst to European economies. The Healthy Homes Barometer 2017 goes on to examine the level of private capital available for renovation in EU member states – EUR 30 trillion – and what would be required to help unlock some of that total to invest in renovation. For the first time, using data from the European Commission’s vast Eurostat Database, the analysis provides new evidence on the relationship between housing and health.

EXCELLENCE AWARD | 13

SUPERB MODERNIST TAKE ON COUNTRY HOUSE WINS 2017 OVERALL SCHUECO EXCELLENCE AWARD Organised by Schueco UK in association with RIBA Journal, the Schueco Excellence Awards, now in their fourth year, were set up to identify and celebrate the very best in building design incorporating Schueco systems in Great Britain and Eire, supported by evidence of creative collaboration between all members of the build team.

offers a whole new take on the traditional country house. The judges found themselves impressed by ‘the rigorous framing [that] demonstrates the potential of beautifully designed and constructed details … the glazed elements create a fantastic sculptural piece with transparency and audacity’.

The winning entry, a stunning residence for a private client, is set in the heart of the Oxfordshire countryside. It was designed by The panel of judges Richard Meier of the US-based for the 2017 Awards practice, Richard Meier & Partners consisted of Chair, Eleanor Young Architects LLP. The first domestic (executive editor of RIBA Journal); commission in the UK for this TurkSpecifyAd2.qxp_Turk£100Voucher 23/06/2017 16:59 (associate Page 3 principal Steven Kennedy renowned modernist, the property

at Grimshaw); Steve Mudie (partner specialising in façades at alinea consulting); Pankaj Patel (founding director at Patel Taylor Architects);

Paul Savidge (managing director of Wintech) and Cindy Walters (director and co-founder of Walters & Cohen Architects).

Successfully completing window and door contracts for over 35 years turkingtonwindows.com

028 3833 2807

Windows • Doors • Curtain Walling

16 | GEOGHEGAN CONSERVATORY

The mission of Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions

s to provide bespoke conservatory roof conversion solutions that increase the year-round usability of their customer’s much-loved conservatories, resulting in a superior customer experience and enhanced customer satisfaction. Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions began trading after realising that, although Conservatories are much-loved, they are generally too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. There were no options for householders to replace their conservatory roof with a solid roof, without knocking down their

existing structure and starting again. Due to the drawbacks associated with traditional conservatories, most customers were realising that they should have purchased a solid roof as opposed to a conservatory roof to begin with.

their ever expanding business…

With these factors in mind, the company set about delivering the Geoghegan Roof. Their idea was to offer a solid roof system that could be installed onto reinforced window frames, and using the skill set of a traditional window or conservatory installer.

The Senior Management Team of Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions have over 100 years combined experience in the Conservatory and Home Improvement Industry. The concept of our Conservatory Roof Conversions developed from the understanding that the usability, in general, of Conservatories in Ireland, North and South is subject to weather conditions. The average conservatory

Specify talks to John Gibson, Operations Director of Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions about

CONSERVATORY LEADERS! Q: Can you tell us the background to Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions?

is simply too hot to be enjoyed in the summer months, and too cold in the winter months. This leads to wasted space in the home, leaving consumers with a room in their home which cannot be used throughout the year. Q: What have been the highlights of the Company’s development so far? The biggest highlight of the Company’s development so far would be the sustained growth we have attained in a competitive market. Other highlights include exporting our business to the UK mainland and the Channel Islands, and the development of our Republic Of Ireland operation. Q: Geoghegan Conservatory

GEOGHEGAN CONSERVATORY | 17

倀爀漀甀搀猀甀瀀瀀氀椀攀爀琀漀䜀攀漀最栀攀最愀渀䌀漀渀猀攀爀瘀愀琀漀爀椀攀猀

洀甀爀搀漀挀欀戀甀椀氀搀攀爀猀洀攀爀挀栀愀渀琀猀⸀挀漀洀

Wishing Geoghegans continued success. www.malplas.net

Manufacturers of High Quality Windows and Doors to the Trade – Established 1990 Certified to A Rate Windows, Gold Standard Certified for PAS24 2016 Accreditation

36 Aghinlig Road, Moy, BT71 6SR

19 | GEOGHEGAN CONSERVATORY

BBS Ballynahinch Building Supplies 14 Ltd Your local supplier for all your building materials for Trade and DIY

Phone: 028 9756 3318

Skip Hire Ltd â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Waste Services - Biomass Ltd

Wishing Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions and Home Improvements every success in the future. Tel 028 9082 5362

81 -83 Belfast Road, Nuttscorner, Crumlin

www. mckinstry skiphire.co.uk

P.W.SALES Electrical wholesale

would like to wish Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions and Home Improvements continued success. Suppliers of Cables, Hager Switchgear and consumer units, Fitzgerald and JCC Lighting, GET accessories: CCTV : Domestic Appliances: Heating : HI-Fi : Home Cinema: Lighting: Security Systems : Televisions: White Goods: Unit 1, Mill Court 17 Castlewellan Road Banbridge, BT32 4AX Tel: 028 4066 2744 Email: info@pwsales.com

www.pwsales.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTRES Suppliers to Geoghegan Conservatories of Fascia Soffit & guttering, cillboards etc Also suppliers and installers of windows, doors, bathrooms and kitchens

Mullan chartered architects work hand in hand with our clients and contractors to produce outstanding buildings, ranging from small domestic extensions/ alterations on bespoke dwellings to large scale commercial and private developments

34a Upper Lisburn Road, First Floor , Belfast, BT10 OBE Tel 028 9043 1810 M+4477 43181 526 E info@mullan-architects.com www.mullan-architects.com

Unit 3 Causeway Court, Enterprise Crescent Ballinderry Road Lisburn 5 branches and showrooms provincewide.

Bangor Castlereagh Coleraine Lisburn Newtownabbey. www.hhi-ni.com

GEOGHEGAN CONSERVATORY | 19 Conversions have developed a partnership with Supalite Tiled Roof Systems UK Ltd. Can you tell us how this partnership came about, the differences between the Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions Conservatory Roof System and the Supalite Roof System, and what this means to your business? Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions are well known throughout Ireland and the UK for the volume of Conservatory Roof Conversions that we install on a weekly basis. We were approached at a Trade Show by Supalite, with a view to manufacturing and marketing the Supalite Tiled Roof System throughout the UK and Ireland. Market knowledge meant that we were already aware of the Supalite system, and further due diligence proved that there was a market for a Company to actively sell and install both systems. The Geoghegan Roof System is primarily a ‘Clad-over‘ system in that the existing roof skeleton is retained in order to form the solid, insulated roof whereas the Supalite System is a complete roof replacement method which means the whole of the existing roof including the skeleton is removed and replaced with the Supalite Aluminium Roof system. This means that the roof can be sold in a kit form, ideal for the trade roofing contractor, complete with all the component parts necessary to replace the roof.

Q: Despite the economic downturn over the past 8 or 9 years, the company has expanded and grown from strength to strength…how has this been achieved? Ensuring that, as a business we have the right people in the right places has helped enormously. There is no substitute for experience and organisational ability. We operate an ‘Open-Door’ policy when it comes to recruitment and ideas, and are always on the look-out for new talent and skills that can help with growing our business. During this period, we have invested heavily in marketing our product through every available Channel, whether that be traditional forms of media, such as Television, Radio, Local & National Press or ‘New’ Media such as online and social media. This investment has led to widespread awareness of our product and reputation for quality. Despite the economic downturn there is always room in the market for a product that is fairly priced, installed correctly and delivers tangible benefits to the purchaser. Another factor contributing to our growth is the quality of our Installation Teams. The power of Social Media, particularly comments from satisfied customers helps us drive new business. We strive daily to deliver excellence in customer service.

* * * * * * * *

Conservatory Roof Conversions New Sunrooms, Conservatories and Extensions ’A’-Rated Windows and Doors Composite Doors Belfast 028 9073 5866 Canopies Bangor 028 9147 4001 Plastering Services L’Derry 028 7127 7433 Domestic Electrical Services Dublin 01 6392966 CillClad UK Wide Freefone 0800 030 4799

www.gcconversions.com

20 | GEOGHEGAN CONSERVATORY Q: The company works right across Ireland and the UK… is it a logistical headache making sure the people and product are in the right place at the right time? The organisational ability of our staff has kept the logisitical headaches to a minimum, but working throughout the UK and Channel Islands has been a learning experience. We are now in a better position to understand and predict any potential issues and put plans in place to prevent them arising. This ensures that, no matter where in the UK or Ireland our customers are situated, we are able to provide an entirely positive customer experience. Q: Do you have plans to open up any more offices? The short answer is YES. During July we will be opening a new Show Village at Horkan’s Garden Centre, just south of Bray on the N11 at the Glen Of The Downs. We will be using this Show Village as a base to demonstrate our full range of products and grow our market further in the South of Ireland. Also during July, we will be opening a Concession at CP Interiors in St. Helier, Jersey. CP Interiors has been in business in Jersey for forty years, and has a great reputation for selling quality home furnishings. There would be a natural affinity between both customer bases. We are very excited at the potential for both of these new sites, and are always on the look-out for new sites and partnership opportunities. Q: Are there any more new products on the horizon? As the only manufacturer of the

superb Supalite Conservatory Roof Replacement in Ireland, we are wellplaced to manufacture and supply the Supalite roof to other Home Improvement Companies on the Island. We also offer an ‘AssistedFit’ Service to potential customers, ensuring in turn that their customers receive a first-class installation. We will be investing heavily in this Trade Channel over the months ahead,

giving customers even more choice. Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions begin purely as a Conservatory Roof Conversion Company. Over the past few years we have added, Supalite Conservatory Roof Replacements, new-build Sunrooms Conservatories and Extensions, uPVC Windows and Doors, Composite Doors, Canopies and Geoghegan Cillclad to our range of products, primarily due to customer demand. Our ‘OpenDoor’ policy also relates to new

products. Where we see demand and opportunity to service this demand we will invest. Q: Have you suffered from a shortage of skilled workers like some other construction companies? Within our Installation Department, we are lucky that this has not been as issue for ourselves. The retention

of existing staff is key factor here. Our ‘Open-Door’ policy regarding recruitment ensures that existing staff feel confident in recommending Geoghegan Conservatory Conversions a good Company to work for.

staff, particularly in the Sales arena.

In saying this, we are always on the look-out for experience and skilled

This is a hard question to answer. There seems to be a considerable

Q: Do you find that the economy is stronger in the south of Ireland or that there is more disposable income in RoI at the minute?

GEOGHEGAN CONSERVATORY | 21

growth in activity around the Dublin/ Greater Dublin Area, which in itself tends to generate confidence in business and the consumer. This led us to looking at suitable sites within the greater Dublin area to locate our ROI operation. However, our business in Northern Ireland continues to grow – hence we have taken on additional floor space in our Ballynahinch factory (where we manufacture our Supalite Conservatory Roof Replacements) and opened a new purpose-built Showroom on the Rathgael Road Roundabout in summer 2016. Q: Will Brexit affect your business and do you have any particular concerns? It goes without saying that the potential for a so-called ‘Hard’ border between Northern Ireland and the Republic Of Ireland would be a concern, as we operate daily within the Irish republic from our Ballynahinch factory. Like any other cross-Border business we need to know how any ‘Border’ would operate and what ramifications this would have. The current ambiguity over Brexit arrangements cannot help us grow our ROI operation but we await the certainty that will enable us to plan for the eventuality.

Part of the SIG plc group, one of the largest building product distributors in Europe, SIG Construction Accessories offer fast, flexible and reliable service, delivering your construction products exactly when and where you need them. • Sound, impartial advice • Technical, specialist expertise and legislation guidance • Comprehensive ranges via our nationwide branch network • Products delivered exactly where and when you need them • Fast, flexible, reliable Construction’s Specialist Solution

01 4010 222 021 452 0202 028 9038 4745

www.sigca.ie

SIG |23

Armourplan® PVC roofing system from SIG Ireland Premium waterproofing with a proven track record.

IKO Polymeric’s Armourplan® PVC roofing system offers flexible and lightweight waterproofing integrity across a wide range of building types. SIG Roofing in partnership with SIG Facades have recently brought Armourplan® to the Pitched Roofing, Roofing, & Cladding Sectors. Armourplan® PVC roofing membranes are suitable for use on a wide range of roofing applications, including specialist installations such as simulated metal roofs. The range

comes in two standard colours; mid grey (RAL 7046) and slate grey (RAL 7015), in addition, a wider range is also available to meet project requirements. Armourplan® is suitable for warm or cold roofs, whether the roof is flat, inverted or sloped. Armourplan® PVC roofing membranes can be mechanically fastened, adhered or ballasted providing maximum system flexibility. “SIG Roofing is delighted to partner with IKO to offer a range of superior quality flat roofing options, one popular option for example is the Armourplan Standing Seam profile which is manufactured from PVC

and is hot welded to the installed Amourplan Membrane at a layout specified by the client. Increases in the cost of metal systems has seen a surge in the use of this cost effective standing seam imitation which is quick and easy to install providing an attractive roof finish at a fraction of the cost of a metal system! Suitable for both domestic and commercial applications accommodating intricate design challenges, Armourplan Standing seam Profile is just one of a number of flat roof options from the IKO range available from SIG Roofing Ireland.” Declan Duignan, Sales & Marketing Manager, SIG Roofing.

Visit our new website and take a look at some of the range of roofing products we have available. Phone: Dublin: (01) 623 4541 Cork: (021) 432 1868 Belfast: (+44) 28 9068 6380 Omagh: (028) 8224 6220 Website: www.sigroofing.ie Email: enquiries@sigroofing.ie

Celebrating martin & hamilton’s 50th anniversary are Barry Neilson - Chief Executive at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), David Hamilton - Managing Director at martin & hamilton, Alastair Martin - Financial Director at martin & hamilton and David Henry - President of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF).

Ballymena-based construction company martin & hamilton celebrates 50 years of building in Northern Ireland. On Monday 12th June, Ballymena-based construction company martin & hamilton celebrated its 50th anniversary. Special guests included David Henry, President of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and Barry Neilson, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

David Hamilton, Managing Director of martin & hamilton welcomed everyone an spoke about the history of the company and the changes to the industry and society over the years, “It’s been a privilege to build in our community for 50 years. We have seen Northern Ireland’s landscape change dramatically over that time. Northern Ireland has a wonderful history and heritage and a bright future. It’s an exciting time to be working with our clients to build the future and restore the past. The company’s success and longevity is a tribute to our hard working team. Many of our employees have been with us for 25 years and longer; that tells me they enjoy being part of what we do.” Alastair Martin, Financial Director, spoke about the three founding

46 Doury Road, Ballymena, BT43 6JB T: 028 2565 3672 www.martinandhamilton.com

Causeway Coast Vineyard

CIOB Chartered Building Company membership

Crumlin Road Gaol

Directors namely Mrs Elizabeth Conway, Mr David Hamilton Senior and Mr James Martin. He also thanked staff members who served the firm over the years then concluded by thanking everyone for attending. The company was formed on

12th June 1967 as a building & civil engineering contractor in Ballymena. Today, martin & hamilton has a ÂŁ13m annual turnover, employs 70 people and continues to operate as a familyrun business.

Office based staff

Ulster Bank Building

Ballyrashance Energy

St Bernadetteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church

Galgorm Resort & Spa - Extension

46 Doury Road, Ballymena, BT43 6JB T: 028 2565 3672 www.martinandhamilton.com

Sika | 27

SIKATACK® PANEL ADHESIVE SECRET FIX SYSTEM

Sika, SikaTack® Panel Adhesive is a secret fix system that requires no screws or brackets. Instead it utilises elastic bonding technology to fix panels to the structure. Without the need for extensive metal fittings used in methods such as mechanical fixings, SikaTack® provided significant cost savings, with no detriment to quality. Together these characteristics made it the ideal product to fix the impressive panels to metal rails. Its innovative approach to securing the panels means it can not only hold up vast weight, but it combines this with flexibility. Utilising elastic bonding rather than metal fixings, it allows for higher stress and movement, eliminating the risk of panel failure. Compared to traditional or alternative cladding methods, SikaTack® Panel Adhesive is simple, fast and cost-effective in application. It requires a carrier frame to be

fitted upon the building, which is cleansed with Sika® Cleaner 205. This frame and the cladding panels, are then primed with SikaTack® Panel Primer. Using a special 3mm thick, black double-sided tape, the panels were temporarily held in place whilst the SikaTack® Panel Adhesive takes effect. FOR INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR WALL CLADDING With the SikaTack® Panel Adhesive System, cladding finishes can be fixed to a carrier frame which allows the designer the freedom to design without any unsightly fixings. The permanent elastic nature of SikaTack® Panel Adhesive System combined with a tenacious adhesion to a variety of panel substrate types accommodates the natural differential movements of varying building materials for the life of most panel types. This ingenious and simple system offers both the designer and installer alike many advantages over comparable

mechanical secret fixing systems. SikaTack® Panel Adhesive System is suitable for the fixing of composites, ceramic, high pressure laminate, cement based cladding panels as well as many metal and powder coated substrates. FOR VENTILATED RAINSCREEN CLADDING Rain can be forced through the joints and openings of a typical building facade through the action of wind or via external and internal pressure differences. Ventilated rainscreen cladding overcomes these potential problems by utilizing the phenomena of pressure equalization. The principle of pressure equalization offered by a rainscreen cladding system ensures the weather tightness of the building structure

by eliminating the methods of which rain may enter the facade. Rainscreen cladding is a tried and tested concept backed up with many years’ experience in the development of relatively easily installed lightweight systems that are currently available.

28|

digest

Take it to D-Max When it comes to getting the job done, there’s no vehicle more suitable than the Isuzu D-Max – a rugged all-rounder that just works. Master of all trades and the perfect blend of rugged capability whether off-road or load-lugging; paired with performance and comfort. For the new generation D-Max; the biggest change is under the bonnet. A brand new 1.9 litre turbo diesel engine has been fitted, which produces 164 PS and 360 Nm of torque. The engine builds upon D-Max’s workhorse character and retains the 3.5 tonne towing capacity and over 1 tonne payload whilst providing a quieter, more

refined and economical driving experience. Another key benefit is that the new engine meets Euro 6 standards without the need for the addition of AdBlue. As per previous D-Max models, Shift-On-The-Fly 4x4 is a key feature of this new 4x4. The rotary dial allows the driver to select fourwheel drive on the move and is also equipped with low range gears. The range-line up from the muchloved D-Max is retained; Utility, Eiger,Yukon, Utah and Blade with a range of single, extended and double cab variants available. The entry-level Utility D-Max, priced from £15,749 (CVOTR) comes equipped with LED daytime running lights, Hill Start Assist, Variable Hill Descent Control, Bluetooth connectivity, power

windows and air conditioning. Eiger double cab (from £20,499 CVOTR) adds a reversing camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers, audio system with CD player and 6 speakers. Yukon (from £20,499 CVOTR) adds 18-inch alloy wheels, silver side steps, new 7-inch multifunction touchscreen, LED rear lights, Cruise Control, rear load liner and a leather steering wheel. Utah (from £24,149 CVOTR) takes comfort up a notch with keyless entry and push button start, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, satellite navigation, DAB digital radio, roof bars, leather upholstery with heated front seats, rear parking sensors and automatic air conditioning.

The range-topping Blade (from £26,999 CVOTR) adds tinted windows, 9-inch multi-function touchscreen, remote locking lower tailgate, Blade puddle lamps, front and rear parking sensors, and a colour-coded Aeroklas canopy or sports bar with roller cover. Finally, the D-Max comes with a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty, and was the first pick-up in the UK to be offered with such a comprehensive peace-of-mind package. Running costs are kept down by 12,000-mile or 24-month service intervals, five years’ roadside rescue and recovery including European cover, a threeyear paint warranty, and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty.

digest

LOCAL WOMAN SCOOPS TOP EUROPEAN ARCHITECTURAL AWARD

NI based architect Johann Muldoon, managing partner of Manor Architects, headed off stiff competition from 300 of her peers across 10 countries to claim the prestigious accolade of Best Woman Architect in Europe at the Women in Construction and Engineering Awards in London. Best Woman Architect in Europe is the latest in a these awards for the multi award winner. Just last month one of her projects was shortlisted for the worldwide Architectural Review Future Projects Awards, however this latest recognition of her achievements is particularly poignant and has securely placed Manor Architects on the map. “ Winning this award is not only a momentous occasion for me in my career, but gives me a fantastic platform to promote my passion for the role of females in architecture and the substantial contribution they can make to the economy and built environment,” says Johann. “ Women are seriously underrepresented, particularly at senior levels in practices throughout Europe but as a female running a

successful firm as well as being a farmer’s wife and mother to two young children, I believe that it is possible to have a flourishing career and a fulfilling family life. Having submitted an entry for the awards, Johann underwent a rigorous selection process in London to be shortlisted for the final. “ The competition was a gruelling full day process of one-to-one interviews and presentations to both the judges and my peers,” explains Johann “ but it was also a time of reflection; writing down what I have accomplished, the challenges, adversity, the thrill, the determination and the love I have for architecture. “ For me, it was an extremely valuable experience, not only on a personal level, but professionally to engage with world leaders within the construction industry, share their experiences, learn from their achievements and take counsel from their challenges.” “The impact and the reality of winning will take some time to sink in. Unquestionably it is an experience and an accolade that I will carry with me for the remainder of my life. I am grateful to the people who have chosen me, who support and believe in me on this rollercoaster journey that is being a woman architect. I wouldn’t change any of it for an instant.”

| 29

Petal sets new standards After more than 30 years as a leader in the washroom cubicle market, Petal is going from strength to strength with a range of premium products which are winning business throughout the UK and Ireland. Excellence in product design lies at the heart of Petal’s success, where attractive styling and reliable operation are important in equal measure. The company delivers expert advice and service with systems developed specifically for sectors including the education, sports, and hospitality and office markets.

Executive & Commercial Petal’s new Esteem and Line cubicle ranges offer specifiers elegant flush styling that meets the growing demand for increased privacy in executive interiors. Both systems offer the option for floor to ceiling privacy up to three metres high with a range of high quality finishes such as rebated hardwood door lips and choice of bespoke hardware. Esteem is an outstanding cubicle system, its 44 mm thick doors are self-closing to maintain flush in-line styling and can be finished in; natural timber veneers, laminates or alternative specialist materials. In each case the result is a specification which will satisfy the most discerning clients. Those specifying Esteem can choose from Petal’s range of wall panelling and vanity

units of a similar quality. Current interior trends include high specification glass wall panelling which creates the perfect backdrop to rich timber veneer door finishes. Petal supply bespoke natural stone or solid surfacing vanity sink units to complete a perfectly co-ordinated executive washroom. Installation of these systems is a skilled process and Petal offer a full supply and fit service giving assurance to the specifier that they are dealing with just one contact throughout the whole specification, design, manufacture and installation process. Petalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Line cubicle system is a cost competitive system which also offers the aesthetic qualities of a flush inline door but with the option to moderate costs by selecting

Design That Lasts

different cubicle heights. Line is available in three configuration options â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Standard, Plus and Ultra which feature varying heights and floor clearances. Each option represents a different price point, but all represent outstanding value for this type of inline cubicle. The Line system provides a level of styling previously not attainable from the budgets available in many schemes. Those looking for an even more contemporary finish will find the expertly engineered Elan Ultra cubicle range fulfills their brief. Manufactured in 15.52mm toughened and laminated safety glass this system offers full privacy up to a 2500mm maximum height. The unique glass rebated door feature ensures a flush finish while the low profile indicator and concealed fixings complete the look.

Contact Petal Tel. 028 6862 1766

Email. sales@petal.co.uk

32| RICS AWARDS

Girdwood Community Hub named building Project of the Year

John Bell house win the building corperation of the year award L-R, Paul Millar, Hamilton Architects, Anthony Best, Michelle Atkinson & Paul Clarke Bishops Gate

A North Belfast building project which has had a hugely positive impact on its environment has been named Project of the Year at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards 2017, Northern Ireland. Girdwood Community Hub, which opened last year, was community driven through the establishment of Girdwood Community Forum with the support of Belfast City Council. Built on the site of a former British Army base, it was designed not just as a leisure or community centre but a shared, vibrant and safe space contributing to peace and reconciliation outcomes. The annual RICS awards celebrate inspirational initiatives across the built environment. The Project of the Year Award 2017, Northern Ireland is presented to the project that is judged overall as an excellent example of best practice by professionals working in both the built and natural environments. Projects from across Northern

The Gallery, Belfast

Ireland were shortlisted in the Awards in eight categories – Building Conservation sponsored by Michele Atkinson Surveying, Commercial property sponsored by Sika, Community Benefit sponsored by Kingspan, Design through Innovation sponsored by Forbo, Infrastructure, Regeneration sponsored by WYG, Residential and Tourism and Leisure. Awards were made at a ceremony at The La Mon Hotel & Spa, Belfast and winners of the individual categories were as follows: • Building Conservation – John Bell House, Belfast • Commercial – Waterfront Hall, Belfast • Community Benefit – The Junction, Dungannon • Design Through Innovation – Main site tower and Peter Froggatt Centre, Queen’s University Belfast • Infrastructure – Stoneyford Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW) • Regeneration – North Queen Street, Belfast • Residential – The Gallery, Belfast • Tourism & Leisure – Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry~Londonderry

Girdwood Community Hub has acted as a catalyst for the development of the wider Girdwood site and for further investment in north Belfast. Companies which worked on the project included surveyors VB Evans, Michael Whitely Architects and O’Hare and McGovern. Judges of the RICS Awards said: “When Belfast City Council stepped in with the ambitious crosscommunity hub concept, it seemed a noble but impossible idea. “Yet in two years since opening it is in full use by all communities, it has opened previously blockaded streets and peace walls and it has created a positive ripple effect impacting the built environment dramatically and positively.” Michael Hannaway, Chair of the RICS Awards Northern Ireland judging panel, said: “These nine exemplary built schemes are already having a positive impact on their local communities and are actively helping to enhance society and the economy in Northern Ireland. The teams behind them should be incredibly proud as they have shown just what is achievable with vision and an innovative approach to collaboration.” All category winners will now go on

Girdwood

to compete against other regional winners at the national RICS Awards Grand Final in November 2017 for the chance to be crowned the overall UK winners in their respective category. Seven of the shortlisted projects were also highly commended in the awards including Novsoco in the Commercial category, the Northern Ireland National Football Stadium in the Tourism and Leisure category and the A2 Shore Road from Carrickfergus to Whiteabbey in the Infrastructure category. In Omagh Arvalee School and Resource Centre was highly commended in the Design Through Innovation category, Meadowvale Court in Lisburn in the Residential category and Brooke Park in Derry~Londonderry for Community Benefit. In the Regeneration category the refurbished Manor House on Rathlin Island was highly commended.

Winners Project of the Year Girdwood Community Hub, Belfast Few in Belfast believed the Girdwood

RICS AWARDS | 33

Architect Michael Whitley, Kirsten Mullan and Gerry Millar, Belfast City Council, Noel McKee, OHMG & Janice Beghs from Oldpal The Waterfront Community Hub would ever materialise. The site of a former British Army base surrounded by communities separated by decades of sectarianism and paramilitary control had been earmarked for housing. But rival groups prevented the project which might see a majority of Protestants or Catholics in the area ever seeing daylight. When Belfast City Council stepped in with the ambitious cross-community hub concept, it seemed a noble but impossible idea. Yet in two years since opening it is in full use by all communities. It has opened previously blockaded streets and peace walls and has created a positive ripple-effect, impacting the built environment dramatically and positively.

Building Conservation John Bell House, Belfast The design team were faced with the challenge of inserting a mix of 413 modern en-suite bedroom units and studio apartments into a prominent listed building, and did so with minimal intervention to the historic fabric. So successful has this been that it is difficult at first glance to see anything other than the old building. With the use of innovative design and traditional conservation principles this building has been saved from neglect and regenerated into a living building once again. Commercial Waterfront Hall, Belfast A complex and demanding scheme with the main client establishing high expectations of this finely built extension to an existing structure abutting Belfast’s riverside. Although built to a cost of £29.5m, in its first six months of operation the facility delivered 15 major conferences, including 16,540 delegate days,

generating an economic impact for the city of £9.5m – a figure which is anticipated will rise to £45m by 2020/21 when the venue reaches its full potential. This is indeed a worthy public investment giving benefit to many and well deserving of its BREEAM “Excellent” rating.

Community Benefit The Junction, Dungannon Located on a community interface and the derelict site of the former railway goods shed, The Junction serves diverse communities in the Dungannon area. It provides a high quality multi-use, flexible space for communities to gather together, to access support services and attend voluntary and educational groups. Facilities include extensive meeting spaces, from one to one counselling rooms to high quality conferencing facilities serving 300+ which have attracted international recognition. It is a place where all can truly feel at home. Design through innovation Main site tower and Peter Froggatt Centre, Queen’s University Belfast The old multi storey tower was stripped back to its frame and several floors removed. A steel frame was attached to the outside and brickwork, glazed screens and bronzed anodised panels were used as external materials. Atria were provided in the centre of the building by cutting out sections of floors. Innovative design involved the use of BIM and meeting BREEAM excellent standards, mainly through energy efficiency and ventilation. The reconstructed building was successfully linked to an adjacent refurbished building and a historic tower, all within the remarkable setting of the University’s central quad. Innovation was also demonstrated in off-site fabrication and dry construction techniques required to meet the needs of the university calendar.

Fergal Mackle BSG, Derek Crabbe NI Water, Michael Hananray RICS, Paul Cooke WYG and Paul Clarke

Infrastructure Stoneyford Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW)

This flagship project provides a sustainable, environmentallyfriendly replacement for the overloaded wastewater treatment works serving the village of Stoneyford. Although with only a population 1000 people, the principles established from this very successful The Peter Froggatt scheme will be replicated elsewhere. The judges were particularly impressed with its fresh sustainable approach and partnerships with local universities ensuring maximum learning outputs to shape further similar projects. The development team established a dialogue with the local community at a very early stage to overcome concern and secured a “Green Apple” environment award in 2015 for enhancement of the local ecosystem.

Regeneration

North Queen Street, Belfast This former police station had lain derelict for many years when it was acquired by Newington Housing Association for 26 two and three bedroom social houses at a cost of £3.3m. Despite difficult ground conditions, contamination and proximity to a motorway, a high quality scheme has been completed and occupied, one which reflects the historic street pattern and the proximity of the listed Clifton House. Before and during construction intense community engagement was undertaken and the contractors employed some local long term unemployed people to work on the project. Residential

The Gallery, Belfast

This city centre residential development appears to have genuinely excited agents as much as purchasers in its short marketing

building at Queens period. Its novelty of size and simplicity of layout matched with its affordability and style will be replicated in the future. Sold as “modern living in the city centre”, without car parking but instead a discount bicycle voucher and safe cycle storage. With a “top to toe” quality finish, the scheme represents a clear vision executed with panache and a firm grasp of the bottom line. It works from all perspectives and makes a strong contribution to the regeneration of Belfast, bringing people back to city centre living.

Tourism & Leisure Bishop’s Gate Hotel, DerryLondonderry This B1 Listed Building located within the Historic Derry City Conservation Area dates from the late 19th Century. For over 170 years it has been an integral part of the social, commercial and political fabric of the city, serving as mess headquarters for army officers in both World Wars. As a gentlemen’s club the building has hosted notable figures such as Winston Churchill, Edward Carson and W.B Yeats. Now a 31 bedroom boutique hotel Bishop’s Gate has won many industry awards within its first twelve months of opening. Previously known as ‘The Northern Counties Club’ which revolved its door for the first time in 1893, that same door that has been lovingly restored and is revolving today.

143 Northumberland Street Belfast, BT13 2JF

028 9032 2802

Bespoke pre-hung doorsets

NBS & BIM Models available

Acoustic Ratings available up to 41dB

CE Marked & QMARK Fire doors

All doorsets conform to BS 476 Part 22

FD30, FD60, FD90 & FD120 available

Commercial Fire Doors

Health Care

Leisure

For full specification service contact Liam Mallon 07803 426 592 liam.mallon@moffett-thallon.co.uk

Education

www.doorways.co.uk

Moffett Thallon | 35

SPECIFYING FIRE DOORS Over the 50 years of trading, Moffett Thallon have worked on some prestigious projects. One of the most recent projects included the refurbishment of the Culloden Hotel owned by Hastings Group. Moffett Thallon worked closely with the architect, HD Design from Banbridge. Herby McAleer (the architect) commented, ‘With a high end brand like the Hastings Group we needed to ensure we supplied quality and fit for purpose products. When it comes to doors and ironmongery you need to ensure the product meets the client’s standards and will last the test of time. Moffett Thallon met this criteria. Their service, knowledge and understanding of the project was of the highest standard. This included scheduling a service of the products needed’. The builder, John McCarton Ltd from Castlewellan said that ‘the supply was on time, the quality of the product matched the client’s expectations. This made the project run smooth from start to finish.’ As the leading distributor and manufacturer of flush, panel and specialist doors - along with associated second fix products Moffett Thallon Doorways offers wide-ranging expertise to the Northern Ireland construction industry. Working with market-leading manufacturers, the company also has its own joinery workshop for bespoke requirements. This combination provides a fast turnaround on orders, regardless of the requirement. As the construction sector in Northern Ireland and, in particular Belfast, starts to gain new momentum, Moffett Thallon Doorways continues to work closely with architects on specifying the right solutions. Whether it is for schools, hotels, hospitals, and student accommodation, safety is all-important. Moffett Thallon Doorways ensures that every product it specifies meets the correct certification and is fit for purpose. With new systems in place, a personable approach, quick service, and an understanding of large commercial projects, Moffett Thallon Doorways ensures a smooth specification service. The team understands the construction of a door, so is perfectly positioned to advise on the key areas of functionality and quality. After the specification process is complete, Moffett Thallon Doorways also offers a full project management service on-site.

Stanley Security celebrates 25 years in business As part of their 25 year celebrations, local security solutions provider STANLEY Security hosted their annual client “open days” in May. Organised by STANLEY Security and supported by key suppliers who were exhibiting, the events focussed on the pertinent topic of cyber security. Hosted in the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast and the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, sixty clients were in attendance representing over 40 organisations from a variety of sectors. Alistair Burns of the PSNI Cyber Crime unit and Mick Gubbins from An Garda Síochána delivered presentations on risks

associated with cyber crime, with Eamonn O’Grady from UL speaking about how you can combat cyber crime and increase security to protect your organisation. STANLEY Security partners with industry leading suppliers and manufacturers to bring the latest developments in security. Following the morning presentations, the supplier exhibition showcased a wide range of products from CCTV, access control & intercoms to perimeter protection and time & attendance systems, with product demonstrations and equipment on display for clients to view. Key highlights included a lightweight thermal handheld camera and video surveillance systems capable of using artificial intelligence to

analyse footage. STANLEY Security delivers comprehensive security solutions that cover every aspect of physical security. Initially trading under the Bell Security name for over 15 years, the company was known as Niscayah before rebranding under the Stanley Security name in 2013. With offices in Dublin, Belfast and Cork the company now has over 100 employees in Ireland, some of whom have been with the company since its inception. Established to provide a specialist security service to the banking sector, the company’s customer base has expanded to include clients from retail, manufacturing, healthcare education and justice.

As part of the Stanley Black and Decker group, STANLEY Security has grown to become a world leading electronic security provider. As the business has evolved both in terms of capability and geography, their ongoing success reflects the company’s commitment to delivering high quality security systems. Daniel Braden-Astbury, Managing Director of STANLEY Security, says: “Over the last 25 years we’ve grown steadily and will continue to do so in the coming years. We want to thank our customers and staff who have helped to get us to this important milestone and look forward to working together long into the future.”

STANLEY SECURITY IS A TRUSTED LOCAL PROVIDER OF INTEGRATED SECURITY SOLUTIONS. WE DELIVER A COMPREHENSIVE SUITE OF SECURITY PRODUCTS, SOFTWARE AND INTEGRATED SYSTEMS WITH A STRONG EMPHASIS ON SERVICE. One of the largest and most reliable security experts in Europe, we have been supporting the needs of our clients across Ireland and Northern Ireland in banking, retail, logistics, healthcare, education and justice for over 20 years. STANLEY Security partners with the industry’s leading product suppliers and manufacturers to offer a total solution that meets your complex security requirements with services including: • Risk assessment, security systems design and engineering • Project management, installation, commissioning and maintenance • Access control, perimeter protection, video surveillance and visitor management systems STANLEY Security, a division of Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK), is a provider of integrated security solutions for commercial and industrial organizations globally.

For more information or to discuss your project requirements please contact us today on 028 9079 9988.

A1 Calmount Park Calmount Road, Ballymount Dublin 12 Ireland +353 (0) 1 456 4544

Locksley Business Park 39 Montgomery Road Belfast, BT6 9UP Northern Ireland +44 (0) 28 9079 9988

www.stanleysecurityni.com

digest

39|

Ding! Ding! Ding! Round 3: Northern Ireland Housing Executive v. Healthy Buildings (Ireland) Limited

John Dugdale, Associate in the Infrastructure and Construction team at corporate law firm A&L Goodbody, discusses a recent judgment that provides further judicial interpretation of the NEC3 Professional Services Contract (PSC), a contract intended for use in the appointment of a supplier to provide professional services.

the services by, for example, an additional payment or an adjustment of the completion date).

n 2012, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) contracted Healthy Buildings (Ireland) Limited (HBI) to provide an asbestos surveying service. The contract between the parties was based on the PSC, with bespoke amendments.

Following an adjudicator’s decision and a judgment in the High Court in 2014, the Northern Ireland Court of Appeal gave its decision on the interpretation of the PSC in relation to the case. It ruled that the NIHE had given an instruction to HBI which changed the Scope, and that HBI’s notification of the instruction as a compensation event was not timebarred, i.e. HBI had not lost its right to additional time and money due to a failure to notify the compensation event within eight weeks of becoming aware of it.

A dispute arose in 2013 when HBI claimed that the number of asbestos samples it was asked to take by NIHE was an instruction which changed the Scope (a contract document which, amongst other things, described the services that HBI was to provide). HBI therefore claimed that the NIHE’s instruction was a ‘compensation event’ (an event that, under the PSC, was at the NIHE’s risk and entitled HBI to be compensated for the effect the event had on the time and cost of providing

According to the PSC, if a Consultant (in this case HBI) fails to notify the Employer (the NIHE) of a compensation event within eight weeks of becoming aware of the event, they lose their right to claim any additional time or money. HBI’s notification was made more than four months after the instruction from the NIHE.

The issue for the court this time was the assessment of the compensation event, i.e. what the effect of the compensation event was on the payment that HBI was entitled to. The court was asked to determine whether or not the assessment of the

compensation event should be carried out by reference to a forecast cost or by reference to the actual costs incurred by HBI. HBI argued for the former, saying it should not be required to provide the NIHE with “actual records and costs” as part of the court proceedings, as they were not relevant to the issues in the case.

The PSC Clause 60.1 of the PSC confirms that the Employer (NIHE in this case) giving an instruction that changes the Scope is a compensation event. The PSC envisages that the Employer should notify the Consultant (HBI in this case) of the compensation event at the time of giving the instruction. The Employer should also instruct the Consultant to submit quotations. Clause 63 of the PSC then notes how compensation events are to be assessed, providing for a “forecast” in relation to work not yet carried out. Clause 65 deals with implementing compensation events, with clause 65.2 stating: “The assessment of a compensation event is not revised if a forecast upon which it is based is shown by later recorded information to have been wrong.”

Decision The court concluded that the assessment should be carried out by reference to the actual costs incurred by HBI. However, the timing of the assessment was important in this decision. The NIHE had not notified HBI of the compensation event at the time of its instruction changing the Scope in January 2013. By the time it came to assess the compensation event in August and October 2013, HBI was effectively “making a claim for work done”. Under those circumstances, the forecast “ought to be informed by the best information as to the actual cost and time incurred”. The judgment also serves as a reminder of the importance, for both consultants and contractors, of good record-keeping. Given the conclusion that the actual costs incurred by HBI are relevant to the assessment of the compensation event, HBI is obliged to hand over the records of its actual costs and time spent. Clarifying the type of records that he expected to see, the Judge said that time sheets that showed what HBI actually did would be the “best evidence” in assisting the court in its assessment of the compensation event.

|39

digest

Environmental Street Furniture Charged Up for Kazakhstan COUNTY Antrim firm Environmental Street Furniture (ESF) is charged up ahead of Kazakhstan’s showcase Astana Expo which is taking place from June until September 2017. Based in Newtownabbey, ESF was tasked with its partner, Lotz Group in Kazakhstan, to supply and install a range of innovative solar powered street furniture products for the Expo. Through working with designers and teams from Austria, USA, Germany and Croatia, ESF has delivered mobile phone street charge units, smart flower charging units and Solaria solar benches, all enabling users to charge their phones and tablets while attending the Expo. The theme for the Expo is ‘Future Energy’ and will provide ESF with a platform to

showcase its business and innovative products which highlight how to harness solar energy in new ways. ESF utilised Invest Northern Ireland’s Business Information Centre to access market research which helped identify Lotz Group as a potential partner. Invest NI has also offered the company export marketing assistance to help it showcase at Astana Expo.

HAGAN HOMES BEGINS CONSTRUCTION OF 78 HOMES IN £9.5M DEVELOPMENT IN BALLYCLARE, CO. ANTRIM Hagan Homes is to build 78 new homes in Ballyclare in a £9.5 million development. This marks the company’s second largest development to commence in the last ten years. Construction of the 78 homes on the 5.5 acres Fairview Farm Road site has just started and will take up to 4 years to complete. Approximately 50 construction jobs will be created. Phase 1 of the development is scheduled for completion in late 2017, with prices starting from £89,950. The development will include 2 bed apartments, 3 bed townhouses and 3 bed semi-detached homes. Discussing current industry issues Mr Hagan says: “There are still a number of challenges to the local home building sector. These revolve around the delay caused by the planning system in Northern Ireland, which to date has not been improved by the transfer of powers to the local councils. One of the main issues is the length of time that statutory

consultees such as Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Transport NI and Rivers Agency are taking to respond to planning applications.” Mr Hagan adds: “Another major concern is that Northern Ireland Water continues to charge excessive and, in our opinion, unjustified amounts for sewer bonds. They are the most expensive bonds of any UK region and this cost is being ultimately passed on to the homebuyer. Due to the large amounts involved it is also stalling new-build starts. The Construction Employers Federation has in recent years requested justification of how Northern Ireland Water calculates their bonds and why they impose them on builders in Northern Ireland but have yet to clarify.” The main contractor for the Fairview Farm Road project is Claudy-based JCL Construction.

Alan Lowry, managing director of ESF said; “We were delighted to have been partnered globally with companies to develop these solar products. It is with the support of

Invest NI that we are able to be involved with such a unique event and have the opportunity to show in situ our innovative products to visitors at the Expo.

Tobermore’s Rustic Roma Helps P & K McKaigue Create ‘Home from Home’ at Gransha Park When P & K McKaigue Ltd was appointed the job of managing the construction of Holly Lane A new care facility designed by McGirr Architects at Gransha Park in Derry/Londonderry – it was vital that the contractor sourced a hard landscaping solution that was in keeping with the traditional style and character of the project. Having worked with Tobermore on a number of occasions previously, the contractor was confident that Tobermore would have a product to suit. Tobermore provided P & K McKaigue Ltd with an attractive block paving

solution consisting of Roma, a rustic three-sized product, Tegula Setts, an antique style bordering product, and Turfstone, a ground reinforcement paving system, which completed the project beautifully. McGirr Architects focused on a communal area landscape design concept with small areas of soft landscaping and planting to reinforce the ‘home from home’ ambience. P & K McKaigue was keen to provide continuity between the pedestrianised and trafficked areas on site, so the contractor also sourced Turfstone, a ground reinforcement paving system, from Tobermore.

40| Moore Concrete

Moore Concrete at the heart of a precast concrete ecological revolution Ballymena-based Moore Concrete is at the heart of a project which will see the introduction of revolutionary precast development systems into the UK and Ireland. The work that will be undertaken by the company will allow for the design and manufacture of precast structures that will bring concrete to life by actively encouraging the development of diverse flora and fauna on their surfaces. “Up to this point precast concrete has, to all intents and purposes, been regarded as a sterile surface in the environment within which it features,” said company managing director Wilbert Moore. “However, that is all about to change courtesy of our collaboration with Israel-based ECOncrete® Tech Ltd, an innovative science based company providing bio-enhancing concrete solutions. Driven by its founders Dr Ido Sella and his colleague Dr Shimrit Perkol-Finkel ECOncrete® provides concrete elements that enhance the environment within which it is placed, by increasing biodiversity, productivity, and elevating the ecosystem services provided by the structures, thereby decreasing their ecological footprint. The growth of flora and fauna also provides Bioprotection that can potentially increase the strength and longevity of urban and coastal structures. Sella was a recent visitor to Northern Ireland. He said that ECOncrete® was conceived on the back of observations made of sea defence systems in his native Israel. “Both Shimrit and I noticed that specific sections of these structures were capable of hosting more vibrant marine plants and animals than others. “So we started to investigate why this is the case. Over a period of time our research led us to identify a unique set of concrete ‘ad mixtures’ that encouraged the development of these biological systems on the surface of the precast structures.” But the chemical make-up of the concrete is only one of the core features that makes ECOncrete® so unique.

“The physical nature of the finished surface is equally important,” said Sella. “This is why we have developed a specific series of textured moulds and liners to ensure the development of a finished surface that will encourage the colonisation of the completed structure.” Sella added that factors such as the pH of the mix used to manufacture ECOncrete® are central to its unique environmental footprint. Over the past number of years ECOncrete® Technology has developed a number of unique products designed for marine and urban landscapes, including Ecological Armouring Units, Tide Pools, Enhanced Sea Walls, Pile Encapsulation, Marine Mattresses and Bio Active Walls. ECOncrete® Bio Active Wall Tiles are designed for urban landscapes, inducing natural plant growth, to provide a pleasing green environment with cleaner, healthier air. Its high complexity and porosity create moist niches that support flora, without the need for complex soil systems. “All of these structures now feature in infrastructure projects around the world,” said ido, “Each is bespoke in its own right with the ECOncrete® used specific to the location in which it has been placed.” Wilbert Moore said that the proven track record of the ECOncrete® team in different locations around the world was the reason behind

his company seeking a business relationship with Ido Sella and his team. “Moore Concrete will be the sole manufacturer and supplier of ECOncrete® precast structures in the UK and Ireland,” he added. “There is tremendous potential for the new technology in this part of the world”.

If you would like to speak to us about any forthcoming projects, please don’t hesitate to contact Richard Whiteside on:

T: 028 2565 2566 or E: Richard.Whiteside@ moore-concrete.com

COMPETITION

Specify has teamed up with leading ferry company Stena Line to offer one lucky reader a return sailing for two people with a car to Liverpool (day sailing) or Cairnryan.

Take the car over to England or Scotland for a mini shopping break, a quiet retreat or to visit family and friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with luggage allowance of as much as you can fit in your car, the whole of Britain is open to you with Stena Line.

Belfast to Cairnryan can even enjoy a luxurious spa treatment in the Pure Nordic Spa. Stena Line is the largest ferry operator on the Irish Sea, offering the biggest fleet and the widest choice of routes between Ireland and Britain with a total of 228 weekly sailing options.

Travelling with Stena Line is the most stressfree way to cross the Irish Sea, with free onboard cinema, free onboard WiFi, a For more information visit www.stenaline. range of delicious dining options and co.uk and for your chance to win this shopping which offers huge savings on crossing for two people and a car, answer high street brands as well as the Stena this question: Plus lounge which you can upgrade to for maximum comfort. Those travelling from

How many weekly sailing options does Stena Line offer between Ireland and Britain? Email your answer to: gladysgreer@greerpublications.com or Post your entry to: Specify Magazine Unit 34 Cresent Business Park, Lisburn, BT28 2GN

CLOSING DATE JULY 31ST

42| JOHN SIMPSON

Life with a minority Government in London by John Simpson

David Henry, Chair of the CEF speaking at their annual dinner

The UK Government, after the election, is attempting to deliver stability and an orderly administration. Without a guaranteed majority for new legislation or budgetary changes there are new risks even if there is an assurance of support from the DUP. For Northern Ireland the most immediate need is for an agreed Stormont budget. During the rest of 2017 there is a danger that the private sector economy will stall, as uncertainty and Brexit cause delay in investment and consumer spending. Government spending, particularly from the capital budget, needs to flow as planned to ensure that that contributes to sustaining the economy. The existing NI budget, even if fully committed, will be less buoyant than last year. The expected house building programmes remain below targeted long-term ambitions. A minority UK Government is exceptional but not an unknown event. The memory of previous minority Governments is of the parliamentary stresses and strains as important decisions become crisis events linked to parliamentary votes won or lost by small margins. The uncomfortable images are of frail or ill MPs who attend possibly with medical assistance. For the economy, a minority UK Government faces less conspicuous but even more serious tensions. Fiscal rectitude may be relaxed to win acceptable outcomes. This fiscal indiscipline brings short-term relief but leaves a growing problem, sometime later, when budget management must be enforced. The terms of the support by DUP MPs for the UK Government are a critical factor in the emerging political processes and, from a Northern Ireland perspective, will have budgetary implications. Public sector budgets in NI are already a complex mixture of funds received

Arlene Foster

within the framework of the Barnett formula and, with recent unusual or exceptional agreements with the Treasury, supplementary special funds. Special extra funds have been provided or promised under the Stormont House Agreement and its successor the Fresh Start Agreement late in 2015. Into these funding streams there have been earmarked amounts in several forms for Legacy Funding and specific NI spending priorities. Then, in parallel, Northern Ireland has secured agreement to selffinance, for defined periods, funds to mitigate and temporarily delay some features of welfare reform that have already been introduced in GB. The state of the public sector finances in NI is, at the time of writing, both unclear and disrupted by the absence of an agreed budget statement which, in turn, is a consequence of the absence of the Executive or the failure of the Secretary of State to take budgetary responsibility away from the Executive on to his own desk. The expectation is that, formally, steps will be taken to facilitate the presentation of a

legal budget statement at the end of June. The working agreement between the DUP MPs and the UK Government may be a source of further useful public sector financial support. These are the risks when excessive commitments are made during an election and the delivery on promises becomes the first steps towards budgetary indiscipline when, failing an appropriate austerity type budget, the sequence of excessive

spending and excessive borrowing become the triggers for higher interest rates, a devaluing currency, and insidiously the erosion of living standards. The post-election environment may be vulnerable to these risks not caused by NI but because the overall UK budgetary policy becomes looser by allowing an increase in net borrowing. From a NI perspective, a looser fiscal discipline at the Treasury creates a national problem, not a local problem. Any allocation of extra funds whether current spending or

JOHN SIMPSON | 43 SHIPBUILDING PROMOTED IN CONSERVATIVE MANIFESTO The Conservative Manifesto included an aspiration to see shipbuilding around the UK, including Belfast grow over the next few years.

Meanwhile, HMS Caroline, the only First World War Battle of Jutland ship still afloat is to reopen on July 1 following successful completion of winter repairs, and the installation of an ingenious engineering solution to make it safe for visitors, says The National Museum of the Royal Navy One of the most innovative engineering projects ever seen in Ireland is approaching completion at Alexandra Dock in Belfast, home to HMS Caroline, now a five-star heritage tourism attraction. The ship, which was fully restored and opened to the public on May 31 2016, through £15,086,100 backing from Heritage Lottery Fund and £4,518,000 support from Tourism NI is due to reopen following hull repairs conducted this winter by Harland and Wolff Heavy Industries. A highly complex permanent mooring system to make the ship safe for the public and also to protect the ship from lateral movements as it floats on the rising and falling tides is now being completed. Captain John Rees, OBE, Chief of Staff at The National Museum of the Royal Navy, in charge of the restoration and project work, says the ship will re-open on July 1 in time for the summer season. “We are very much looking forward to the reopening of HMS Caroline, as it will now boast one of the most advanced mooring systems ever seen on the island of Ireland and possibly in the world,” says Captain Rees. “Because of the historic fabric of Alexandra Dock which is a scheduled ancient monument and the complications of attaching an equally important and iconic vessel which weighs

more than 4,000 tonnes to it, we have had to progress the project very carefully and sensitively,” he says. The ship has been secured in the dock using two articulated steel A frames. These allow the ship to rise and fall with the tides while preventing excessive lateral movement which could restrict public access to the ship. The attachment of the A frames to the ship required careful consideration to ensure that the loads generated by wind and wave action were transferred through strong points in the vessel thereby avoiding damage to the historically significant ship. On the dock-side the historic nature of the dock structure, combined with the poor ground conditions surrounding the dock, required the installation of a piled foundation structure. This foundation system extends 30m below the surface and utilises

ground anchors 35m long to provide lateral restraint to the A frames on the dockside. Thousands of visitors are expected to board the ship once again when it reopens. The 122 metre-long light cruiser built in 1914 was restored to its full glory with new decking, guns and a total refurbishment from bridge to engine rooms.

capital will be welcome.

The version of the Conservative election manifesto published for Northern Ireland gives some guidance on what was planned before the election. In a chapter on the NI economy there are themes developed consistently with the UK policies. There is no overall estimate of the budget costs but the list includes: 1. The devolution of corporation tax powers, subject to the proviso of there being a stable and fully functioning NI Executive. 2. City Deals to extend the Coleraine Enterprise Zone by developing similar schemes elsewhere. 3. Funding support, quoting the increased allocations in the UK Budget for 2017-18. 4. Guaranteeing that NI would introduce the National Living Wage at 60% of median earnings by 2020. 5. Northern Ireland to share in the benefits of a modern industrial strategy to build the economy. 6. Supporting industries to succeed. This includes an aspiration to see shipbuilding growing on the Clyde and on the Forth, in Belfast and in Barrow, and in the north east and south of England.

Visitors are being offered a unique experience to journey back 100 years to a dangerous life at sea during the First World War. The light cruiser saw action in the infamous Battle of Jutland on May 31 1916 in which more than 8,000 lives were lost and

Sharing in the National Productivity Investment Fund which will have a £23bn budget.

With hindsight it is easy to criticise the lack of coherence in this range of ideas. The likely explanation is that this was a last minute drafting election exercise prepared away from the NI administration. There were two other specific budget references for NI with reference to health and education where there was an explicit reliance on the Barnett Formula to benefit NI. An extra £4bn by 2022 for schools in England could mean about £160m allocated to the NI budget. In parallel, an extra £8bn in real terms for the English health service may bring over £320m to

was the focus of international commemorations of the battle on May 31 last year. Moored in Belfast since 1924 the ship has been restored and fitted out with exhibition areas and exciting interactive suites to provide the visitor with a stark sense of what it was like to be in the middle of a naval battle against the mightiest floating army in the world, the German Imperial Fleet.

the NI budget. The Conservative election manifesto for NI was premised on a continuation of the inherited budget and the devolution of spending decisions to Stormont. It was an inherited reducing Block Grant in a continuation of the Westminster pressure on all spending including regions such as NI. Even with the extra support for NI following the political agreement with the Conservatives, the immediate prospects in NI are still of a constrained budget alongside an economy growing more slowly. In 2017 critically, capital spending will be lower than in 2016 and consumer spending is not expected to recover quickly from the recent fall.

Why Compromise? »» Cement based liquid screed »» Can be tiled as soon as 5 days »» Can be used in wet areas »» Market leading thermal conductivity »» No need for expensive primers

Provincewide delivery.

A new cement based liquid screed

For full product details and technical information, visit:

www.cesquarryproducts.com

Bal Ltd (Ardex/Dunlops),

market leaders in tile adhesives provide a 25 year guarantee when used with Cemfloor.

For a quotation please call

028 9751 9494

sales@lisowencontracts.com

Doran’s Rock, 124 Crossgar Road, Saintfield, Co. Down, BT24 7JQ.

www.lisowencontracts.com

Castleton Design - Chris/Architect ‘Where were you six months ago? This is the answer to the problems caused by other liquid screeds (that use calcium sulphate). We had a disaster of a job on a critical care unit which cost £60,000 to repair. I will be recommending Cemfloor from now on which is cement based’ Maryland Nursing Home 5000m2 of Cemfloor I would highly recommend Cemfloor for its fast track nature. Time saved, allowed us to progress much quicker onto other areas of the job. Maurice | Director of Killowen Contracts

Supplied exclusively by

CEF/SpecifyCEF awards |29

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief... Summer Safety Tips – Children on Site With the approach of the summer holidays the risk of children being drawn to construction sites as exciting places to play increases. While the numbers of children being killed or injured on construction sites has reduced, there is no room for complacency. Each year in the UK, two or three children die after gaining access to building sites, and many more are injured. Contractors must do everything possible to keep them out of the site and away from danger. The following specific steps are particularly relevant to child safety: • Secure sites adequately when finishing work for the day. • Barrier off or cover over excavations and pits. • Isolate and immobilise vehicles and plant and if possible lock them in a compound. • Store building materials (such as pipes, manhole rings, and cement bags) so that they cannot topple or roll over. • Remove access ladders from excavations and scaffolds. • Lock away hazardous substances. • Assess the site at the start of each day for evidence of unauthorised entry and take remedial action to prevent it occurring again. The Summer Safety Tip is brought to you in conjunction with Safety Focus, the Construction Employers Federation’s new health and safety service. The service provides members with access to a highly qualified but practical health and safety expert. Call us today to avail of your free consultation. Jon Mowbray is a Chartered Member of the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) and has in excess of twenty years’ experience as a construction health and safety practitioner. Safety Focus will deliver a service bespoke to each company’s needs, allowing a tailored approach to

Industry welcomes start of A6 works

ommenting on the news in early May that the main construction works are to begin in the next few weeks on the A6 Randalstown-Castledawson road dualling scheme, Construction Employers Federation Managing Director John Armstrong said:

“The announcement by the Department for Infrastructure should be welcomed across the board. The A6 schemes are a critical element in Northern Ireland’s strategic road and infrastructure network and it is vital that they are taken forward within the timeline of the flagship project status they have been given. “The Graham/Farrans Joint Venture that is responsible for its delivery stands ready to deliver significant direct and indirect economic benefits once they are on site, benefits that will equate to hundreds of sustainable jobs over the course of the project as well as many opportunities for their extensive supply chain.”

Federation comments on RICS Construction Market Survey

ommenting on the publication of the RICS Construction Market Survey for Q1 of 2017, Construction Employers Federation Managing Director John Armstrong said:

“This latest survey reflects our own data in that there remain significant market challenges for the local construction industry. It is unquestionable that the lack of stable, devolved government is having an impact especially as the failure to agree a Northern Ireland Executive Budget for the current financial year has given government clients significant levels of uncertainty in respect of planning and delivering their forward pipelines of work. “The indicative budget figures that clients now have will undoubtedly help, but it does not resolve our concern that public servants will not have the confidence and comfort to take decisions regarding which schemes they should put out to tender beyond those schemes that currently have the political approval to move to those stages. “The industry has undoubtedly recovered since its low point in 2012 and opportunities, stemming from the revitalised levels of private sector and housing investment that we are seeing, are once again growing. However, business needs stability and the importance of a locally accountable Executive should not be overlooked”.

News in Brief... Summer Safety Tips – Children on Site CON’D improving users health and safety performance. The options available include, but are not limited, to: • CDM Compliance Check • Documentation review • Review of site practices • Site inspections • Accident investigation • Reaction to an improvement notice • Action plan development for health and safety improvement • Health & Safety mentoring

1800 Free Qualifications Delivered he Qualifying the Existing Workforce programme delivered in partnership between the Joint Council for the Talmost Building & Civil Engineering Industry and CITB has recently come to an end. The programme which delivered 1800 NVQ Level 2 qualifications was funded by the Department for the Economy. The qualifications, delivered over a five-year period, covered a range of occupations across the industry with the most prevalent being plant, bricklaying, concreting and wood occupations. John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation and Employers Secretary of the Joint Council commented: “The Qualifying the Workforce programme undoubtedly has been a huge success. Almost 1800 construction works now have a qualification which recognises their experience, a qualification which benefits the candidate and their employer. The success of the programme highlights the appetite of the construction industry to constantly upskill the workforce. It also demonstrates the success that can come from close collaboration between a wide range of industry representatives and government”.

Members can use the service as and when required providing flexibility in a constantly evolving area of the industry. A free tenminute consultation is available for users to discuss their needs with Jon prior to arranging any further visits. Safety Focus will be charged on a half or full day basis. To arrange your free ten-minute consultation please contact Janet Millar on 028 9087 7143 or janetm@cefni.co.uk.

R&D Tax Relief: Making the most of it Federation Patron BDO Northern Ireland here provide members information on the benefits of R&D tax relief, how to make a claim and how BDO Northern Ireland can help you. The Government continues to support innovative businesses by encouraging companies to apply for R&D tax relief and increasing rates of relief. R&D is broadly defined for these purposes as activities carried out that “seek an advance in science or technology, through the resolution of scientific or technological uncertainty”. The advance may be in the development of a product or a process and may include software developed internally. It is a common misconception that only companies operating in certain sectors are eligible for this relief. BDO have worked with companies of all sectors and sizes to successfully claim the relief, including life sciences, manufacturing, marine, civil engineering, aerospace and defence and software. Further information is available on the BDO Northern Ireland website: http://www.bdoni.com/en-gb/insights/ featured-insights/r-d-tax-reliefmaking-the-most-of-it

Federation announces new Legal Patron The Construction Employers Federation has announced corporate law firm A&L Goodbody as its new Legal Patron. The CEF Patronage Scheme gives organisations in the construction industry access to specialist guidance and expertise from a range of market-leading sectoral experts. As legal patron, A&L Goodbody will provide CEF members with advice on a wide range of legal matters – including HR & employment, Visas and Immigration, procurement, planning, collateral warranties, bonds, ancillary documents and the negotiation and drafting of all major forms of contracts. Furthermore, A&L Goodbody will advise on dispute resolution including adjudication, mediation, arbitration and court litigation. Members will receive further information on this in the coming weeks.

Pictured (L-R): David Fry, Assistant Director, CEF; John Armstrong, Managing Director, CEF; Gareth Walls, Partner & Head of Employment Law, A&L Goodbody and John Dugdale, Construction Associate, A&L Goodbody

Latest version of Procurement Pipeline published The latest quarterly iteration of the Northern Ireland Executive’s Infrastructure Investment Pipeline was published in early June. Members can view the preprocurement and in-procurement reports by accessing the Member Dashboard on the Federation’s website after entering their login details. Copies are also available for members on request from David Fry: davidf@ cefni.co.uk The next update of the pipeline is due in September 2017.

Balloo Hire mobile welfare units Belfast Hire Centre 31 Sydenham Road Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT3 9DH T: (028) 9045 8080 F: (028) 9045 8282

E belfast@balloohire.com

We are here to help you meet the welfare responsibility you have to your staff and visitors. Balloo Hireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s static and mobile welfare units deliver a convenient solution to remote sites with no electricity or water. We also hire a variety of chemical toilets and mains toilets which are perfect for onsite use, as well as popular for large event hire, and everything in between.

A desire to showcase originality teamed with a necessity for larger office premises and the outcome is a highly innovative and unique architectural studio. Located on Main Street, Ballymoney, 2020 Architects always knew their new studio would be a showcase statement of creativity and innovation – going to the very heart of the 2020 ethos. Bringing the building back to its former glory, 2020 were intent on unleashing the mass of architectural features within the building. Through a floor-to-ceiling restoration, they have achieved a dream space. Integral to the design concept, was the incorporation of a designated interactive architectural Virtual Reality suite – the first of its kind in Northern Ireland. Through the addition of this latest technology, clients can wear a VR headset and walk around their actual house design in an environment which replicates the real world. This space is also perfect for winding down and provides the team with a TV and gaming room, allowing them to take a break from the high pressure world of architecture. Marrying historic elements of the building’s structure dating back to the 1950’s,

teamed with a contemporary texture – 2020 Architects have successfully created a fusion between old and new. The materials were chosen specifically to create an architectural discourse between industrial and modern. Formally used as premises for a Charity shop, 2020 were keen to express minimalism, functionality, and simplicity. The overall interior arrangement speaks a language of openness and warmth - helped immensely by the addition of the popular working dog - Dfor. The design centres on creating a bright, open environment - enabling the team of 13 plenty of opportunity for open-spaced brainstorming, plus collaborative areas for drawing and design. It’s a space were everyone purposefully sits together, not tucked away in offices, but side-by-side to maximise engagement and idea generation. Locally made rustic bricks, original steel beams and two fireplaces were unearthed during the renovation and now form prominent features. Removal of a suspended ceiling revealed original tongue and groove panelling, which the team painted and also left exposed. Bespoke working stations designed using mild steel frames and plywood were brought to life by Ramage Contracts. The visitor area

offers a panoramic view of the studio, but is transformed into a private space with the addition of a geometric, custom-made bookshelf. Similarly, a geometric reception desk, handcrafted in beech plywood, was designed to appear like a natural continuation of the ceiling and creates a modern twist on this restoration project. LED plinth lighting gives the appearance of a floating reception desk rising above the original softwood floor, which was also restored by 2020. Lights are a major theme, supplied by Lightsource, they are strategically placed in zig-zag design – helping to ground the contemporary ethos of the 2020. Outside was just as important to the architects as they wanted to create a theme that could be continued inside. The addition of modern geometric signage by Signsni offered the architects the ideal solution, while also offering UV filters. Gareth Boyd, Director of 2020 Architects, was passionate about what he wanted to achieve from the new studio. “The glory

of architecture is exposing and revealing the actual nuts and bolts that run to the core of construction. We married the historic elements ingrained in the building with contemporary materials to achieve a unique architectural studio. “We wanted to create an atmosphere that would inspire and engender bright ideas, plus enable the retention of great employees. As an innovative practice, we wanted showcase our passion for contemporary architecture and the preservation of history while using sustainable techniques.”

2020 Architects www.2020architects.co.uk 49 Main St, Ballymoney, Co Antrim, BT53 6AN | T: 028 2766 7999

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

Tree Maintenance Ltd. Belfast 69 Upper Mealough Road BT15 3AJ Carryduff, BT8 8LR Tel: +44 (0)2890 749 748 TEL: 028 9081 4488, Fax: 028 9081 4333 Fax: +44info@treemaintenance.com (0)2890 749 758 Email: Email: enquiries@clowgroup.co.uk Website: www.treemaintenance.com Web: www.clowgroup.co.uk

ACCESS SOLUTIONS INSURANCE

CONCRETE

TO AdvERTISE CONTACT... Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Walkway Systems Scaffold Tower Systems Edge Protection System Fall ArrestAccess & Personal Protection Quality Equipment & Equipment Bespoke Access Solutions Promoting • Ladders‘Safe Working Platforms’ • Stepladders Ridgeway • Scaffold Towers 103 Airport Road • Platforms & Podiums Belfast, BT3 9ED& Fabrication • Engineering Tel: 028 9045 4599 • Inspections Fax: 028 9045 4596 • Training Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com Clow Group Ltd. 2/24 Limestone Road Belfast BT15 3AJ Tel: +44 (0)2890 749 748 Fax: +44 (0)2890 749 758 Email: enquiries@clowgroup.co.uk Web: www.clowgroup.co.uk

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

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

CONCRETE

paulbradwell@greerpublications.com

TO AdvERTISE CONTACT...

Paul Bradwell, Siobhan Kissward Sales Manager 028 9078 3218 Tel: 028 9278 0108

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com paulbradwell@greerpublications.com

Walkway Systems Scaffold Tower Systems Edge Protection System Fall Arrest & Personal Protection Equipment Promoting ‘Safe Working Platforms’

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

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

Ridgeway 103 Airport Road Belfast, BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9045 4599 Fax: 028 9045 4596 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

Paul Bradwell, Sales Manager Tel: 028 9278 0108

Ashbourne Unit 1 & 2 Greene Park Ratoath Road Belfast: Co. Meath 103 Airport Road West A84 XD98 Co. Down Tel: +353 (01) 802 7173 BT3 9ED Tel: +44 (0) 28 90454599 Fax: +44 (0) 28 90464696 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

CES Liquid Screed

Acoustic and fire barriers /stops for

CAvITY TRAYS cavity wall specifications.

New range to suppress sound transmission with up to fours hours fire integrity rating Level threshold isolation dpc's and compatible vertical closers now available. Immediate distribution from stock Cavity Trays Limited Contact: Stephen Leyland Ltd, Castings House, Quarry Manufacturers of preformed cavitrays, Heights, North Road, caviclosers, cavivents, caviweeps, Newtownards BT23 7SZ dampcourses, arches, lintels, airbricks, Tel: 028 9182 2522 membranes, barriers, flashings, Fax: 028 9182 2558 ventilators; cavibricks. Radon and Methane protection systems. Cavity Trays Ltd Wide range of preformed systems New Administration Centre, from the largest and longest Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8HU established specialist. Products with Tel: 01935 474769 Agrement certificates to British Fax: 01935 428223 Standards. LABC Product Type E-mail: enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk Approval. Free design and advisory service. For high performance products with warranty. Cavity Trays Ltd is the only tray manufacturer awarded European Technical approval. Acoustic and fire barriers /stops for cavity wall specifications. New range to suppress sound transmission with up to fours hours fire integrity rating Level threshold isolation dpc's and compatible vertical closers now available. Immediate distribution from stock Cavity Trays Limited Contact: Stephen Leyland Ltd, Castings House, Quarry Heights, North Road, Newtownards BT23 7SZ Tel: 028 9182 2522 Fax: 028 9182 2558 Cavity Trays Ltd New Administration Centre, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8HU Tel: 01935 474769 Fax: 01935 428223 E-mail: enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk

ons for truction

ConCrEtE ConCrEtE

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

ConCrEtE INTERIOR FIT-OUT FIrE & SECUrItY • Fire Detection & Alarm • Fire Suppression Systems • Integration • Intruder Detection & Alarm • CCTV • Access Control • Remote Monitoring • Emergency Communications Systems

DESIgN INSTALLATION “Northern Ireland’s Leading Family-

FACADES

Swiss Facades Transforming Exterior Facades Premium Swiss Quality Panel Systems for High End Architecture

d Edgings oned Tanks

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

• Fire Detection MAINTENANCE & Alarm COMMISSIONINg • Fire Suppression Systems

Diamond Electronic Systems Ltd • Integration Unit 1a Harbour Detection Court, • Intruder & Alarm 5 Heron Road, Belfast • CCTV BT3 9HB • Access Control Tel: 028 9020 7207 • Remote Monitoring Email: info@diamondsystems.co.uk • Emergency Communications Systems www.diamondsystems.co.uk DESIgN

GAS

INSTALLATION

ons for ete.com truction e.com

d Edgings s leading oned Tanks

ers

ete.com e.com

e, 0UZ 's leading ers 41

e, 0UZ

FACADESQuality Precast Solutions Civil Infrastructure, Building & Agriculture

FACADES

Swiss Facades Swiss Facades

Swiss Facades Contact Anne Hurl.Solutions for Quality Precast Tel: +44 (0)7554 056930 Building and Civil Construction Office Tel: +44 (0)28 79632026 Email us info@swissfacades.com • Asset BEBO Bridge Arches www.swissfacades.com • Redi-Rock Wall Systems • Box Culverts • Bridge Parapets Swiss Quality Premium • Manhole Rings & Slabs Panel forEdgings High • Heads & Sills,Systems Copings and • Above Ground Post-Tensioned Tanks End Architecture

Transforming Exterior Facades

PAVInG

Moore Concrete Products AchesonHouse, & Glover has been in business for Caherty more than 50 years. As well as in-depth 41 experience WoodsideweRoad, offer the widest range of Ballymena BT42 2QH concrete products in the UK and Ireland - from manhole covers to decorative walling and paving.

Tel: 028there’s 2565 2566 Swiss Facades Then our unique range of problem solvers: Fax: 028 2565 8480 Contact Anne Hurl. Tel: 028 2565 2566 Tel: +44 (0)7554 056930 Email: info@moore-concrete.com • SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALLS www.moore-concrete.com Office Tel: +44 (0)28 79632026 Web: www.moore-concrete.com • ACOUSTIC BLOCKS Caherty House, 41 Woodside Road, BALLYMENA. BT42 4QH Email us info@swissfacades.com • THERMAL BLOCKS www.swissfacades.com • PERMEABLE PAVING • PRESTRESSED FLOORING • BESPOKE (contact us to discuss your needs)

PAVInG Acheson & glover Ltd.

64 Old Moy Road Supplying Northern Ireland's leading Dungannon architect and builders Co. Tyrone BT71 6PU Acheson Glover 4208 has been in business for Tel: 028& 8778 more than years.4805 As well as in-depth Fax: 028 50 8778 experience we offer the widest range of Email: concrete solutions@acheson-glover.com products in the UK and Ireland - from Web: manholewww.acheson-glover.com covers to decorative walling and

COMMISSIONINg

MAINTENANCE

Flogas goesElectronic far beyondSystems simply Ltd Diamond Unit 1a Harbour Court, bulk and managing and supplying 5 Heron LP Road, Belfast cylinder Gas requirements. BT3 9HB LP Gas from Flogas not only Choosing Tel: 028 9020 7207 opens the door to a versatile, highly Email: info@diamondsystems.co.uk Premium Swiss efficient energy sourceQuality with affordable www.diamondsystems.co.uk installation and running costs – we Panel Systems for High create and implement tailored energy solutions to client applications. End specific Architecture Our experience covers a comprehensive range of markets including domestic (both single dwelling and metered estates), catering, commercial, industrial, agricultural and automotive.

Transforming Exterior Facades

GAS

Swiss Facades CPDAnne Learning Contact Hurl. sessions056930 are now available from Tel:CPD +44 (0)7554 Flogas to assist planning Office Tel: +44 79632026 Flogas goes(0)28 far architects, beyond simply consultants and other specifiers Email us info@swissfacades.com managing and supplying bulk andin updating their core learning and www.swissfacades.com cylinder LP Gas requirements. knowledge. more Choosing LPFor Gas frominformation Flogas not visit only www.flogasni.com/cpd. opens the door to a versatile, highly efficient energy source with affordable Flogas installation and running costs – we Airport Road West create Harbour and implement Belfast Estate tailored energy solutions BT3 specific BELFAST 9EDto client applications. Our 028 experience covers a Tel: 9073 2611 comprehensive range of markets Email: info@flogasni.com Acheson & www.flogasni.com Glover has been(both in business for including domestic single Web: more than 50 years. As well as in-depth dwelling and metered estates), experience we offer the widest range of catering, commercial, industrial, concrete products in the UK and Ireland - from manhole covers toand decorative walling and agricultural automotive.

PAVInG

paving. Then there’s our unique range of problem solvers:

paving. Then there’s our unique range of CPD solvers: Learning problem

• • • • • •

• SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALLS Flogas to assist architects, planning Paul Bradwell, • ACOUSTIC BLOCKS consultants and other specifiers in • THERMAL BLOCKS updating their core learning and Sales Manager • PERMEABLE PAVING knowledge. For more information visit Tel: 028 9278 0108 • PRESTRESSED FLOORING www.flogasni.com/cpd. • paulbradwell@greerpublications.com BESPOKE (contact us to discuss your needs) Flogas

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

Cloughfern Avenue, Acheson & glover Ltd. Newtownabbey, 64 Old Moy Road BT37 0UZ Dungannon Co. Tyrone T: +44 (0)28 9085 1441 BT71 6PU E: info@rtu.co.uk Ashbourne Tel: 028 8778Unit 4208 1 & 2 Greene Park www.rtu.co.uk Fax: 028 8778 4805 Ratoath Road Belfast: Email: solutions@acheson-glover.com Co. Meath 103Web: Airportwww.acheson-glover.com Road West A84 XD98 Co. Down Tel: +353 (01) 802 7173 BT3 9ED Tel: +44 (0) 28 90454599 Fax: +44 (0) 28 90464696 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

CPD sessions are now available from

Airport&Road WestLtd. Acheson glover Harbour 64 Belfast Old Moy Road Estate BELFAST BT3 9ED Dungannon Co.Tel: Tyrone 028 9073 2611 BT71 6PU info@flogasni.com Email: Tel:Web: 028 8778 4208 www.flogasni.com Fax: 028 8778 4805 Email: solutions@acheson-glover.com Web: www.acheson-glover.com

Tel: 028 2565 2566 Fax: 028 2565 8480 Email: info@moore-concrete.com Web:gas www.moore-concrete.com Calor Northern

Ireland Limited

FIrE GAS& SECUrItY

Airport Road West, Supplying Northern Ireland's leading Sydenham, architect and builders Belfast, BT3 9EE. Tel: 028 9045 5588 E-mail: info@calorgas.ie Website: www.calorgas.ie

Calor a leading supplier Calorisgas Northern of cleaner, efficient Ireland Limited LPG energy solutions in Northern Ireland with RTU LTd Cloughfern Avenue, Airport Road • Fire Detection &West, Alarm specialist knowledge Newtownabbey, BT37 0UZ • Fire Suppression Systems Sydenham, covering all sectors • Integration T: Industrial, +44 (0)28 • IntruderBT3 Detection &9085 Alarm1441 Belfast, 9EE. Including E: info@rtu.co.uk • CCTV Commercial, Hospitality, Tel: 028 9045 5588 • Access Control www.rtu.co.uk • Remote Monitoring Agriculture, and E-mail: info@calorgas.ie • Emergency Communications Systems Domestic. Website: www.calorgas.ie We offer our customers: DESIgN INSTALLATION

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

GAS PAVInG

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

• SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALLS

Calor gas Northern • ACOUSTIC BLOCKS • THERMAL BLOCKS Ireland Limited • PERMEABLE PAVING

• PRESTRESSED FLOORING • BESPOKE (contact us to discuss your needs)

Airport Road West,Ltd. Acheson & glover BC 64 Old Plant Moy RoadJCB Limited Sydenham, Dungannon Old Coach Road, Co. Tyrone Belfast, BT3 9EE. BT71 6PU HILLSBOROUGH, 028 8778 4208 Tel: Tel: 028 9045 5588 Fax: 028 8778 4805 County Down, UK, E-mail: Email:info@calorgas.ie solutions@acheson-glover.com Web: www.acheson-glover.com BT26 6PB Website: www.calorgas.ie

Flogas goes managing an cylinder LP G Choosing LP opens the do efficient ene installation a create and im solutions spe Our experie comprehens including do dwelling and catering, com agricultural a

CPD Learn CPD session Flogas to ass consultants a updating the knowledge. F www.flogasn

Flogas Airport Roa Belfast Harb BELFAST BT Tel: 028 907 Email: info@ Web: www.

Tel +44 (0)2892682573

Calor is a leading supplier Calor is a leading supplier Fax +44 (0)2892682929 •of Tailored energy LPG of cleaner, efficient LPG cleaner, efficient Email: sales@bcpjcb.com solution energy solutions in energy solutions in •Northern Full design service Northern with Web:Ireland www.bcpjcb.com Ireland with specialist knowledge • Technical support and specialist knowledge MAINTENANCE COMMISSIONINg covering all sectors covering all sectors guidance Diamond Electronic Systems Ltd Unit 1a Harbour Court, Including Industrial, Industrial, •Including 24-hour 5 Heron Road, Belfastemergency BT3Commercial, 9HB Commercial, Hospitality, Hospitality, call out Tel: 028 9020 7207 Agriculture, and Agriculture, and Email: info@diamondsystems.co.uk www.diamondsystems.co.uk Domestic. Domestic. Calor Accredited CPD K Contracts are a specialist contractor servicing the construction and WeKoffer our customers: We offer our customers: Contracts are a specialist sectors who specialise in the design, supply and installation of safety programme available. GAS contractor servicing the equipment. Content includes LPg construction and related • Tailored energy • TailoredKnowledge, energy DESIGN,who SUPPLY , INSTALLin AND Product sectors specialise the MAINTENANCE OF solution solution gas Regulations and design,-supply and installation HORIZONTAL LIFELINES • Full design service • Full designCourses service ACCESS & LADDERS of -safety height Standards. - DAVIT ARMS • Technical support andLADDERS •areTechnical support and FABRICATED / FALLGUARD equipment. FREE of charge and - GUARDRAILS guidance - ABSEIL POINTS / RAILS/ DAVIT guidance Flogas goes far by beyond simply available arrangement ARMS/ SAFETY EYE BOLTS managing and supplying bulk and • 24-hour emergency DESIGN, SUPPLY , INSTALL • 24-hour emergency withLPone of our Calor cylinder Gas requirements. K Contracts Ltd AND call out Choosing LP Gas from Flogas not only call outDevelopment Business opens the door to aBelfast: versatile, highly 028 9064 306 MAINTENANCE OF efficient energy source with affordable Engineers. Contact Email: cathal@kcontacts.co London: 02037447359- Horizontal lifelines installation and running costs – we CPD cpd@calorgas.ie Calor Accredited CPD Calor Accredited create and implement tailored energy Fabricated & solutions specific to client applications. programme available. programme Our experience covers aavailable. fallguard ladders comprehensive of markets LPg Content- includes LPg Contentrange includes Guardrails including domestic (both single Product Knowledge, Product Knowledge, dwelling and metered estates), - Abseil Systems catering, commercial, industrial, gas Regulations and Safety Eyebolts gas Regulations and agricultural and automotive. Standards. Courses and - Inspection Standards. Courses CPD Learning Maintenance are FREE of charge and are FREE of charge and CPD sessions are now available from Flogas to assist architects, planning available by arrangement available arrangement consultants and by other specifiers in updating their core learning and with one of our Calor with one of our Calor knowledge. For more information visit Business Development Business Development www.flogasni.com/cpd. Engineers. Contact Flogas Engineers. Contact Airport Road West cpd@calorgas.ie cpd@calorgas.ie Belfast Harbour Estate

www.kcontracts.com

BELFAST BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9073 2611 Email: info@flogasni.com Web: www.flogasni.com

Belfast: 028 9064 3706 London: 02037447359 www.kcontracts.com cathal@kcontacts.com

com

web directory

54| web directory

www.mclarke.co.uk www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk www.wilplas.com

www.swissfacades.com www.spanwall.com www.heynwaste.co.uk

Paul Bradwell, Siobhan Kissward |55 to advertiseweb directory Sales Manager 028 9078 3218 ContaCt... Tel: 028 9278 0108

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com paulbradwell@greerpublications.com

www.balloohire.com www.tinnelly.com www.diamondsystems.co.uk

www.treemaintenance.com www.calorgas.ie www.cphire.com

web directory |55 www.pronetsafetyservices.com www.balloohire.com www.1080.co.uk www.petal.co.uk

www.swissfacades.com www.flogasni.com www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk

54| web directory www.gyproc.ie www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk www.treemaintenance.com www.gqaqualifications.com www.masterschoice.co.uk

www.heynwaste.co.uk www.swissfacades.com

www.yeomanshield.com www.tinnelly.com www.sdg.ie www.jncfence.com

www.cphire.com

.uk

web directory |55 53| Web Directory web directory |53 web directory |53 www.mclarke.co.uk www.swissfacades.com www.heynwaste.co.uk www.nkfencing.com www.nkfencing.com

www.balloohire.com www.treemaintenance.com www.cphire.com www.heynwaste.co.uk www.acefixings.com www.whitemountain.co.uk www.acefixings.com

60| Web Directory

web directory |53 www.swissfacades.com www.acefixings.com www.pronetsafetyservices.com www.contractceilings.com www.contractceilings.com www.petal.co.uk

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

www.treemaintenance.com www.mclarke.co.uk www.swissfacades.com www.bestvaluegabions.com www.bestvaluegabions.com www.petal.co.uk www.willisinsurance.co.uk www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk

web directory |53 www.pronetsafetyservices.com www.bestvaluegabions.com www.gyproc.ie www.nkfencing.com www.masterschoice.co.uk www.whitemountain.co.uk www.whitemountain.co.uk

www.swissfacades.com www.swissfacades.com www.yeomanshield.com www.acefixings.com www.sdg.ie www.ridgefence.com www.masterschoice.co.uk www.ridgefence.com

Whitemountain Quarries Ltd, Sheepwalk Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim. BT28 3RD Whitemountain Quarries Ltd, 1111 Sheepwalk Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim. BT28 3RD Telephone: 028 9250 1000 • Fax: 028 9250 1100 Telephone: 028 9250 1000 • Fax: 028 9250 1100

www.gyproc.ie www.contractceilings.com www.ridgefence.com www.willisinsurance.co.uk www.willisinsurance.co.uk

www.yeomanshield.com www.pronetsafetyservices.com www.bestvaluegabions.com www.oplanofficefurniture.co.uk www.oplanofficefurniture.co.uk

28 3RD

www.oplanofficefurniture.co.uk www.whitemountain.co.uk

www.gyproc.ie www.ridgefence.com

contract at

54| Hays

New Hays survey reveals ‘What Workers Want’

Employees born after 1995 cite pay as making up only 40% of their decision making.

industries, firms can tap into a wide range of third-party training opportunities to offer to their teams, helping ambitious employees to reach their goals.

And while only 36% of baby boomers cite bonus incentives as a motivating factor, that figure rises to 75% among employees born after 1995.

Retaining and holding on to the best talent is essential for firms to maintain a strong business for long-term success.

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing quality projects, tAL Limit has been awarded a signifi contract (£3.1m) by globa medical diagnostics comp Randox. This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility fo While a competitive salary is important, professionals will consider making sacrifices to find an ideal workplace fit. Indeed, company culture comes through as the most important factor in deciding whether to stay or go.

Mark Wade

In order to command commercial advantage in a demanding market, it is critical for construction firms to have clear strategies in place to attract and retain talent.

This year we talked to more than 13,600 professionals across more than 20 sectors - including 785 professionals from Northern Ireland to find out what workers want from current employers and what priorities top their list when considering whether to stay in a job or accept a new role.

At Hays, we are focused on supplying employers with the intelligence they need to shape effective talent management practices.

In terms of attraction, our results reveal that it’s not just about pay - it’s about the total package.

Our most recent survey - ‘What Workers Want’ - is designed to supply employers with an up-todate understanding of emerging trends within the labour market. The detail contained in this robust and comprehensive survey can inform retention and talent management, as well as ensuring benefit packages, workplace culture and career development opportunities meet expectations when recruiting new talent.

While pay accounts for around 45% of the decision whether to stay or go, other key factors include organisational culture, career progression and benefits such as health packages on offer. In a competitive jobs market, employers should be looking at these secondary considerations that together influence around 55% of a candidate’s decision-making process. Typically, younger employees place much less of an emphasis on pay.

A good retention strategy for any staff member begins in how they are recruited in the first place. And yet just 28% of our respondents felt that benefits were effectively communicated during interview.

Some 83% of professionals would consider declining a job if there is no scope for professional development. They also look for policies on benefits from a potential employer and may not apply to employers that don’t offer these. Across all those surveyed, flexible working options are rated as the most important single benefit an employer can offer. When it comes to the construction industry, employees are keen to reach senior positions and will prioritise employers that offer strong training and professional development opportunities. Due to the work of chartered bodies in the construction and property

Our survey also indicates that a lack of awareness of training support may be contributing to employees looking elsewhere. The lesson for employers is that they must prioritise improving communication as part of their recruitment and retention programmes.

For our part, Hays Northern Ireland is further developing our partnership agreements with the representative bodies of the industry to address key issues relating to skills shortages, returning talent to Northern Ireland and promoting retention within businesses. In addition to the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), we will continue to work closely with the Chartered Institute of Builders (CioB), the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA).

To find out more about the ‘What Workers Want’ survey and to download a copy log on to https://www.hays. co.uk/what-workers-want or call 028 9044 6900.

Our intuitive online service is designed to let you choose the criteria for relevant project leads based on what construction sectors you’re focused on including location, project stage and value range. *This data was generated on 19th Dec 2016. For further details on any of these projects simply contact us on:

Construction Information Services (CIS) is the market leader in supplying timely, in-depth construction project information across All Ireland, All sectors and All stages.

Phone:

N. Ireland Office: 028 4064 8110 Dublin Office: 01 2999 200 Website: www.cisireland.com Email: sales@cisireland.com

We provide fully researched information on construction projects from pre-planning to on-site stages.

CIVIL AND UTILITIES ProjectID Title

Stage

Category

Value

County

Tender

Civil and Utilities

€30,000,000

Co. Dublin

Contract Awarded

Civil and Utilities

£150,000,000

Co. Londonderry

Stage

Category

Value

County

Tender Tender

Community and Sport Community and Sport

£20,000,000 £20,000,000

Co. Antrim Co. Antrim

Stage

Category

Value

County

Tender Tender

Education Education

€12,000,000 £9,200,000

Co. Wexford Co. Londonderry

Tender

Education

£100,000,000

Co. Tyrone

Stage

Category

Value

County

805402 £9.3m - Hotel 848435 £8m - Designer 63-Bedroom Hotel 806183 £5.4m - Student Accommodation 834067 £30m - 4-Star Hotel

On Site Contract Awarded

Hospitality Hospitality

£9,307,720 £8,000,000

Co. Antrim Co. Antrim

On Site On Site

Hospitality Hospitality

£5,435,786 £30,000,000

Co. Antrim Co. Antrim

850228 £25m - Hotel Development

On Site

Hospitality

£25,000,000

Co. Antrim

Stage

Category

Value

County

804596 €25m - Radiation Oncology Centre 824367 €17.2m - Nursing Home Development 850192 €12m - Nursing Home Development

Tender

Medical

€25,000,000

Co. Cork

Contract Awarded Contract Awarded

Medical Medical

€17,206,875 €12,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

896884 £9.1m - BHSCT Frameworks for Consultancy Services 836168 £35m - Hospital Extension

Tender On Site

Medical Medical

£9,100,000 £35,953,421

Co. Antrim Co. Londonderry

Stage

Category

Value

County

822024 €51m - Residential Development 910280 €50m - Social Residential Schemes Proposals 910185 €14m - Rapid Delivery Housing 818520 €12m - Residential Development

On Site Tender

Residential Residential

€51,079,000 €50,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Galway

Tender On Site

Residential Residential

€14,000,000 €12,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

576093 £8m - Housing Scheme, Phase 1 794169 £7.1m - Residential Development 899782 £320m - Heating Services 2016 903751 £17.5m - Social Housing Development

On Site On Site

Residential Residential

£8,142,165 £7,166,724

Co. Antrim Co. Antrim

Tender Tender

Residential Residential

£320,000,000 £17,500,000

Co. Antrim Co. Londonderry

854435 £17m - Residential Development (246) 890640 £100m - Social Housing, Land, Design and Build

Contract Awarded Tender

Residential Residential

£17,021,250 £100,000,000

Co. Down Co. Antrim

845451 €30m - Blanchardstown Regional Drainage Scheme (BRDS) 789874 £150m - A6 Dualling

COMMUNITY AND SPORT ProjectID Title 888650 £20m - Leisure Centre 888649 £20m - Leisure Facility

EDUCATION ProjectID Title 802706 €12m - School Building 855320 £9.2m - School 882017 £100m - Shared Education Campus

HOSPITALITY ProjectID Title

MEDICAL ProjectID Title

RESIDENTIAL ProjectID Title

V B Evans & Company are pleased to have been chosen to undertake responsibility for the bi-monthly collation of this data and sponsor its publication. With over 70 years of experience in business the firm provides a wide range of quality assured professional quantity surveying and other consultancy services to Northern Ireland clients who seek value for money and appropriate contract advice for their building design or refurbishment proposals. The Specify Prices published here are representative of the market price of each building material, having been assessed from a variety of local sources which in the present competitive economic climate prefer not to be named. Readers are advised to verify individual prices with a local merchant for their particular needs since our prices are necessarily averaged for guidance purposes. We hope that these pages may be of assistance to readers but would welcome any constructive suggestions for amendment to include information which would be appropriate to your needs. Material prices at MAY 2017 Prices are exclusive of VAT. Discounts will apply. This information is compiled specifically for Specify periodicals and is copyright.

Building Materials Prices

56 | prices 80| VB Evans AGGREGATES Full loads delivered Central Belfast 50mm Crusher run 100mm Crusher run Fine Blinding Coarse Blinding 6mm Stone 10mm Stone Building Sand Washed Sand

Web: www.vbevans.com

Quantity Surveying Building Surveying Project Management CDM Planning Supervision

Metric-sized concrete blocks, delivered to Belfast area, full loads, mechanically off-loaded per 1,000 £424.00 440x215x100 3.5N/mm2 £433.50 440x215x100 7Nmm2 £434.00 440x215x100 10Nmm2 £513.50 440x300x100 7Nmm2 £535.00 440x300x100 10Nmm2 £410.00 Concrete brick 15Nmm2 803.00 440x215x100 Tolite

FINISHED SOFTWOOD

Metric-sized concrete bricks delivered

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. per 100m Parana Pine £63.00 20x8 £97.00 44x8 Whitewood £53.00 32x12 £84.50 69x12 £64.00 32x19 £75.00 44x19 £82.00 32x32 £142.50 69x32 £179.00 69x44 £230.00 94x44 £264.00 69x69

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

per 1,000 £380.00 £390.00 £345.00 £370.00 £370.00 £340.00 £335.00

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

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

INDUSTRIAL AND FIRE-RESISTING BOARD Prices are exclusive of delivery. Terms for SUPALUX non-combustible asbestos-free fire-resisting board - price per sheet up to 149m2 2440x1220

Bulk Cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area per tonne £153.00 Ordinary Portland Cement £181.00 Sulphate Resisting Cement

per tonne £372.00

CEMENT MORTARS In full loads delivered to Central Belfast per tonne £27.00 Standard 1 lime mortar Y4 £47.00 Tinted mortar ref. Y15 £54.00 Y135 £46.00 Y91 £52.00 Y10 £57.00

6mm sanded £54.00

9mm sanded £57.00

12mm sanded £74.00

MASTERBOARD Class O asbestos-free multi-purpose building board sanded finish. Price per sheet up to 149m2 2440x1220

CEMENT

Ordinary Portland Cement

3 Pilot's View, Heron Road Belfast BT3 9LE Tel: 028 9045 7000 Fax: 028 9045 7040

per tonne £16.00 £16.50 £15.50 £15.50 £17.50 £20.50 £21.00 £18.50

BRICKS

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

Chartered Surveyors

CONCRETE BLOCKS

6mm £68.00

9mm £82.00

12mm £105.50

PLASTERING MATERIALS Per tonne, ex-works (delivery by arrangement) Lightweight aggregate pre-mixed gypsum plaster to BS 1191, Part 2. Metal lathing undercoat Bonding Finish Gypsum plasterboard to BS 1230 per sheet (2400 mm x 1200 mm) 9.5mm thick plasterboard 9.5mm thick foil-backed plasterboard per bundle (6 Nr 1219mm x 406mm) 9.5mm thick plasterlath 9.5mm thick foil-back plasterboard per 100 lin. feet Galvanised standard angle bead Galvanised plasterstop (10mm) Galvanised external renderstop

£322.00 £379.00 £336.00 £11.00 £15.00 £17.00 £11.50 £11.00 £14.00 £28.00

Evans |81 of In theVB next issue READY MIXED CONCRETES Ordinary Portland Cement in full loads delivered to Central Belfast per cub. metre £68.00 1:10 by volume £83.00 1:2:4 by volume £74.00 1:3:6 by volume £69.00 20 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £73.00 25 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £77.00 30 N/mm2:20mm aggregate

Thrutone Thrutone Relief

per 1,000 £1540.00 £1650.00

Concrete tiles delivered Central Belfast Interlocking flat tile Double roll tile Single roll tile

£890.00 £890.00 £890.00 per tile £5.00 £5.80

Half round ridge tile - 457mm long Angular ridge tile - 457mm long

SAWN REDWOOD Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths. 100x50 150x50 100x63 150x63 200x63 100x75 150x75 200x75

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. 114x19 89x12 114x12 89x12 94x12

£94.00 £69.00 £80.50 £98.50 £108.00

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

STEEL REINFORCEMENT

ROOF SLATES AND TILES Fibre Cement Slates ex-yard

SOFTWOOD FLOORING, SHEETING AND PANELING

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

SAWN WHITEWOOD

Mild Steel reinforcing bars to BS 4449. High yield steel reinforcing bars to BS 4449/4461. One size, bent and labelled, per tonne, delivered to Central Belfast Diameter/mm Mild Steel High Yield 6 £770.00 £865.00 8 £770.00 £865.00 10 £770.00 £865.00 12 £770.00 £865.00 20 £770.00 £865.00 25 £770.00 £865.00 32 £770.00 £865.00 40 £770.00 £865.00 Mesh Fabric to BS 4483 ex-yard per sheet (one or mixed references) per sheet BS reference A 98 £38.50 A142 £38.50 A193 £42.50 A252 £47.00 A393 £80.00 B503 £80.00 B785 £88.00 Heavy section steel ex-yard in lots of over 5T per tonne UC 152x152x23 £1030.00 203x203x46 £1375.00 254x254x73 £1435.00 305x305x118 £1320.00 356x368x153 £1505.00 UB

305x165x40 356x127x37 406x140x39 457x152x52 533x210x82

£1320.00 £1320.00 £1320.00 £1320.00 £1320.00

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths. 50x25 100x25 150x25 275x25 75x50 125x50 175x50 250x50 100x75 200x75 250x75

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

TERMS FOR GLASSROCK Non-combustible asbestos-free fire-resisting board - price per sheet up to 149m2. 6mm 10mm 12.5mm sanded sanded sanded 2400x1200 £54.00 £56.00 £75.00

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

£83.00 £98.00 £115.00 £171.00 £101.00 £135.00 £180.00 £245.00 £340.00

Pipes and fittings to BS 4600. List price ex-yard. Large quantities will attract considerable discounts. Plain sewer, per 6m Pipe coupler, ea Single oblique branch, ea Single swept branch, ea 45˚ short radius, ea 87½˚ short radius bend, ea 45˚ long radius bend, ea 90˚ long radius bend, ea Straight channel 45˚ curved channel, ea

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

CEF SPECIFY CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2017 WINNERS

58| INTERVIEW

Specify talks to Richard Holmes, The Boss at Springfarm Architectural Mouldings, SAM…

Name: Richard Holmes Position: Managing Director, SAM Q: Did you plan to get involved in the Construction Industry? - No I am from a farming background. I completed my degree in Agriculture and Management with the aim to progress into the Agri / food sector. Q: How did you start off? - I started in SAM (Springfarm Architectural Mouldings Ltd.) as a production scheduler when the company was still small. I was always good at organising and planning and found scheduling a natural fit. As the company grew to become market leader so did my remit within the organisation and with that my career in

SAM, which has spanned 20+ years. Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far? - Winning the European Business Excellence award in 2002 and being the first company to win Business Excellence twice in 2007 and 2009. Q: What was the best piece of advice you’ve been given? - When I first started working in SAM, I approached the owner Sam McCrea to pitch an idea that would improve the load planning at the time. His response was “Just do it. Isn’t that what I pay you for?” I was impressed by a boss who allowed people to just get on with it. Q: What would you say to any

students considering a career in construction? - Absolutely go for it. The construction sector is a fantastic industry to work in. There have been tremendous changes within the different sectors over the years that have created new jobs and with the advancements in technology and products, this is a sector that has the potential for great growth. Q: Do you think the Construction Sector needs more support from Stormont? - I believe it needs a running assembly to meet the needs of Northern Ireland. Speeding up the planning decisions and being governed by local people can only be a positive step for the construction sector in NI.

Q: What needs to be done to help the Construction Sector? - Northern Ireland is lagging behind in skill sets in all areas of the construction sector. There is a high demand for vocational skills to keep up with the growth of the industry. There has been an increase in the employment of overseas skilled labour to fill the gap, and with BREXIT this may no longer be an option. Northern Ireland needs to focus more on vocational studies to meet the growing demand. Q: Tell us something surprising about yourself… - I am a massive Bruce Springsteen fan and I have travelled to three different continents (Europe/ America/Africa) to attend his concerts.

Calor CPD Courses Register today

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about looking after the little things. Calor Continuous Professional Development Courses are designed to keep you abreast of the latest developments in energy solutions, for every type of build. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re involved in planning, designing or building for the domestic or commercial sector, a course with us helps ensure you have the most up-to-date thinking at your disposal.

Call now to find out more 028 9045 5588 or visit calorgas.ie Email cpd@calorgas.ie