Northern Builder Magazine Issue 26-5 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

F CO RE PY E

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE:

leading magazine for Northern Ireland’s building professionals Celebrating Over 25Years The

n CEF Awards n Houben Centre n Insulation n Acoustic Seminar

Vol 26 No 5 2015

CHURCH

PRAISE for St Patrick’s

MAIN CONTRACTOR

www.qmacconstruction.com

weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got it covered!

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EMS611077

OHS623892

3 3 Environment Health & Safety 3 Quality

bringing european innovation

contents T

welcome...

21-29 36 Contents... News & Views

40-41 Vol: 26 No.5 - 2015

In focus

World record brdige

Clear acoustics seminar by Ecophon

38-39

Uncertain oulook concerns

Kingscourt’s theatrical performance

44-45

Social housing boost

Happy birthday SAM

Gyproc and Isover golf day

16-17

At Northern Builder, we love to celebrate excellence and while this issue highlights the very best our industry has to offer, it also sends out some stark warnings. Our extensive coverage of the Construction Excellence Awards highlights the many positives, with a diverse range of projects recognised by the judges. The next generation also picked up awards, with four young people from the construction industry winning medals at WorldSkills in Brazil. But if reports by the CEF and FMB are heeded, our industry needs a lot more of the hard work and dedication displayed in Brazil. The latest CEF and PwC survey gives an uncertain outlook locally for the construction industry – a view mirrored by the FMB’s State of the Trade report. Both place the focus firmly with the political stalemate that is choking the local economy. The FMB’s skills survey also indicates a worrying need for general labourers and bricklayers. This issue displays the positives our industry has to offer – let’s hope that the politicians can get things moving so we can add to this!

Heritage and restoration

55-79

Tools, workwear, health and safety

95-99

Passive House conference

Regulars

CPDs from CIOB

CIS project leads

RICS awards launched

FMB

CITB funding boost

Legal advice from HHD Solicitors

Karen McAvoy

Adam Hassin

Gordon McAvoy

THE TEAM Managing Director Advertising Editor Editorial Editorial Head Designer Designer Accounts Business Support Photography Printed by

Karen McAvoy Mairead Hendry Adam Hassin Diane Day Denise Maguire Julie Anne Guiney Jo Wilson Michelle Owens Gemma Sheppard Gordon McAvoy W&G Baird

Feature highlights... CONTACT US The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR t +44 (0)28 9261 2990 - f +44 (0)28 9261 2091 e northernbuilder@kmpltd.co.uk w www.northernbuilder.co.uk Houben Centre, Ardoyne, Belfast Pages 49-59

St Patrick’s Donaghmore Pages 61-68

Victoria Street, Ballymoney Pages 70-73

Northern Builder is dedicated to bringing the latest news on products, companies and services to those involved in the province’s building industry and its allied trades and professions.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Publishers of: • Plumbing & Heating Magazine • Electrical Magazine • Northern Builder • Yearbooks • Diaries Organisers of: • Plumbing & Heating Trade Events • Northern Ireland’s Electrical Trade Events • Industry Awards With reference to the Misdescriptions Act, please note that the measurements and artist’s impressions within are for illustrative purposes only and may not be accurate. Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 3

U news

Lagan Construction International is flying high

McLaughlin & Harvey world record beaters!

ivil engineering contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd, has played a major role in a successful world record attempt in Belfast. The company acted as technical advisors in the attempt by third-year Queen’s University Belfast Civil Engineering students to build a 30m long Meccano Bridge, which was lowered into place by McLaughlin & Harvey across the Clarendon Dock in Belfast The attempt to build the world’s largest Meccano structure was verified by the Guinness Book of Records in a ceremony on Saturday, September 19, and was the culmination of the student’s efforts as part of the Big Bridge Build. The year-long project engaged not only academics and students, but also local school children as part of the university’s outreach programme to encourage more children into STEM careers. John McCarey, Chief Engineer at McLaughlin

& Harvey Ltd, explained, “It has been exciting working closely with both the academics and students of Queen’s University on this successful record attempt. Through our experience we have been able to support these engineers of the future create something that people around the world will be able to see. To have built an entire structure just from Meccano required a great deal of technical expertise and we are pleased that our team has been part of that.” McLaughlin & Harvey provided not only technical expertise in supporting the student’s build, but also resources and a warehouse in which the bridge components were assembled and tested. Finally they provided on-site engineers managing its relocation to the Clarendon dock and subsequent installation across the water. For more information on McLaughlin & Harvey telephone 028 9034 2777 or visit the website at www.mclh.co.uk

agan Construction International, part of Lagan Construction Group, has been appointed to undertake works at three separate military bases across the world. The company has secured two contracts with DIO (Defence Infrastructure Organisation) in both Gibraltar and Cyprus, with combined construction work valued at an estimated £31million. The third contract is with the US Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) for the runway repairs at the Naval Air Station Whiting Field in Milton, Florida, with works valued in excess of $14million. Work on the RAF Gibraltar base details a repair and upgrade of the current runway surface as well as an upgrade of the airfield ground lighting with the project due to be finished by January 2016. The second contract at the RAF Akrotiri base in Cyprus sees a joint venture with Lagan Construction International and Iacovou Brothers, one of the island’s leading construction companies, while the project at NAS Whiting Field will consist of reconstruction and rehabilitation of runways on the South Airfield which will take approximately one year to complete. Colin Loughran, CEO of Lagan Construction Group, commented, “Having completed projects on over 50 airports across 5 continents, airport infrastructure works are a core part of our business and our teams are experienced in providing the engineering skills and technologies necessary to deliver both airside and groundside support facilities. “We have a fully committed team to ensure the contracts are delivered with the highest safety standards, within programme and cost requirements.” For more information on Lagan Construction Group, telephone 028 9045 5531 or visit www.laganconstructiongroup.com

CIS opens new office in Banbridge

onstruction Information Services (CIS) has announced the opening of a new regional office in Banbridge. With headquarters in Dublin, CIS has been researching and publishing details of construction projects in Ireland for over 40 years. Managing Director Tom Moloney is delighted with the move. “We have always had a strong and important customer base in Northern Ireland,” he said. “With many of our key staff also from the province, it was an easy and almost inevitable decision

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that will benefit our subscribers by having that local knowledge which is so essential to delivering timely and comprehensive research on construction opportunities. “With stability and growth returning to many regions and sectors across Ireland and the UK we feel that the latent potential for similar growth exists in Northern Ireland and will start to materialise over the coming months and years.“ For more information on Construction Information Services Ltd visit the website at www.cisireland.com or telephone 028 4064 8110.

Tom Maloney, Managing Director, (seated) launches the new CIS office in Banbridge alongside (back row) Mike McGrath, Research Executive, Pat McGrath, Head of Research & System Development, and Clare Legge, Research Executive.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

U INDUSTRY COMMENT

CEF and PwC quarterly survey sets out grim reality of the sector in Northern Ireland…

Uncertain outlook for construction industry

ust over a third (34%) of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies are struggling to stabilise their business activities, while 16% are operating in survival mode, according to the latest quarterly survey from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and PwC. In contrast, the proportion with profitability or growth as their priority actually fell from 50% in Quarter 1 2015 to 38% in the following three months. The latest quarterly survey of Northern Ireland’s construction companies shows that, in the three months to the end of June, only 19% of all the firms surveyed were operating at full capacity – down from 21% in the second quarter of 2014. Key findings from the survey include: • • • • •

34% of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies say their main priority over the next 12 months is to stabilise their operations. 14% have an objective of increasing profitability over the next 12 months. 16% of all companies were operating at less than 50% capacity in the second quarter of 2015, marginally up from 14% in Q1 2015. 22% of all companies reported an increase in workload during Q2, down from 28% in the first three months of the year. 24% of all companies increased their employee numbers over the same period, with 19% reporting that their total employment numbers had declined.

Commenting on the survey, Dr Esmond Birnie, PwC’s Chief Economist in Northern Ireland, said the survey results reflect other economic data which suggested that recovery is slowing.

6 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

“These relatively downbeat data reflect the Ulster Bank Purchasing Managers Index for August, which shows declining levels of output, orders and employment. Putting the survey in context, since 2007, Northern Ireland’s construction industry has been the most severely impacted sector in terms of both output and employment. “The impact of the financial crisis on the industry here was considerably worse than in GB; and, while local constriction companies have won considerable volumes of new work in GB, the current level of output in Northern Ireland alone remains around 40% below the level experienced pre-2007. “Looking forward, there is no clear consensus of sector-wide optimism; a third (33%) of companies expect economic prospects in Northern Ireland to improve; a fifth (21%) of respondents expecting things to worsen, while 38% foresee no change.”

budget The CEF/PwC analysis suggests that a number of factors could account for the lack of confidence in the local industry, including the implications of recent budget difficulties facing the Northern Ireland Executive and the reduction in the roads maintenance budget. Despite the indications of recovery in the local housing market, where both prices and activity levels are rising, there is little evidence of a sustained bounce in private housing building. The market remains fragile, largely because of the debt overhang from the boom in the mid-2000s. CEF Managing Director, John Armstrong, also warned that workload and employment levels were being boosted by companies operating outside Northern Ireland. “There is increasing evidence of companies reporting increased workload and

employment, but where orders were being won in London, Manchester and other construction hotspots in Great Britain where workers are commuting to work outside Northern Ireland. “In 2014, we estimated that the largest local construction companies generated up to two-thirds of their turnover - over £1 billion - outside Northern Ireland. But, as much of this evidence remains anecdotal, we have now expanded our quarterly survey to include work undertaken outside Northern Ireland– even where the workers are being paid in Northern Ireland. “We will report on these findings in future surveys but, in the absence of major public and private contracts here in Northern Ireland, some of our biggest firms may find the GB market more buoyant and more profitable. That could mean that, if the local market returns, the construction companies, may not. Overall however, while the sector is in a stronger position than when it was at its lowest point after the banking crisis, confidence is lukewarm, output remains between half and two-thirds of the pre-2007 level and there are headwinds around the medium-term economic picture. “Chief amongst these headwinds is the continuing political malaise at Stormont, where a breakdown of communication, trust and decision-making around the Executive table has left a huge sense of frustration and anger within the construction industry. “November’s Spending Review will set the Executive’s budget envelope for the next four years and the industry expects the outcome to prompt speedy decisions as to how the already developed pipeline of work will be delivered.” For more information on the CEF telephone 028 9087 7143 or visit www.cefni.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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U news Illustrated plans for the former Visteon site as submitted by Fold Housing Association.

Fold announces two new schemes

old Housing Association has announced two new schemes that will give a new lease of life into disused areas. The first scheme will see a disused military compound in the hills of the Ring of Gullion in Newry revitalised through a £2.23million social housing development. Park Urney in Forkhill village is a high-quality new build scheme which consists of 22 properties in total. The development includes two and three-bedroom houses, two-bedroom apartments and one fully accessible wheelchair bungalow, reflecting the different needs of the families on the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) waiting list. The second scheme is at the former Visteon site in west Belfast where Fold Housing Association has submitted a revised planning application that will significantly increase business use space and allow for the creation of up to 600 jobs. Fold purchased the former Visteon site in June 2013, with the aim of providing social and private housing, community facilities and employment opportunities. Since then Fold has undertaken considerable work to prepare the site for development, including the

demolition of several derelict factory buildings. An initial planning application, submitted by Fold in December 2013, proposed a housing-led regeneration of the site which would meet the critical needs of local people by providing quality homes, access to workspace and community facilities. The £25million investment includes 244 new private and social homes, set amidst extensive open space and represents an overall investment of £70million in the wider economy. In response to a request by the Planning Service, Fold Housing Association has now reviewed the amount of employment space to be provided on the site and has submitted a revised proposal which increases this from 40,000sqft to over 60,000sqft. Meanwhile, in a separate development, over 35 new homes are being built in an £4million investment by Cultra Developments that is being supported by Ulster Bank. Work has begun on five new detached homes in Carrickfergus, just off the town’s North Road, whilst the third phase to build 32 new properties at the Riverhill Manor development in Ballyclare is also underway.

James Patterson of Cultra Developments (left) with Kenton Hilman and Oonagh Potter of Ulster Bank, mark the announcement of a £4million investment in housing developments in Carrickfergus and Ballyclare.

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The American Air Museum at IWM Duxford, Cambridge, which will be refurbished by Marcon. Image courtesy of Imperial War Museums.

Marcon soaring high after landing prestigious contract at the American Air Museum

ntrim based fit-out specialist, Marcon, has landed a major fit-out contract at the American Air Museum, one of the exhibition spaces at the renowned IWM Duxford, part of Imperial War Museums. The American Air Museum at IWM Duxford, Cambridge houses a unique collection of American aircraft which is the largest collection on public display outside the United States. IWM Duxford is the UK’s best-preserved Second World War fighter station and was home to the US Eighth Air Force’s 78th Fighter Group from 1943–45. Since opening to the public in 1997, the American Air Museum has hosted over five million visitors who have come to pay tribute to the American airmen who lost their lives fighting for world freedom from Great Britain and to admire the outstanding objects to be found in the exhibition. IWM Duxford has recently received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund towards the American Air Museum redevelopment project. Working closely with leading interpretive designers, Redman Partnership, Marcon will reconfigure the museum space to provide an enhanced experience for visitors. The project will greatly improve the museum for existing visitors and attract new audiences with state-of-the-art interpretive displays. Marcon’s specialist joinery facility will manufacture the setworks, displays and interactive exhibits and the project team will manage the installation of showcases, Audio Visual hardware and graphics. Marcon Fit-Out has been responsible for the fit-out of a number of iconic museums and exhibitions over the past number of years, namely Titanic Belfast, Down County Museum, Navan Fort, Carrickfergus Castle, the Guildhall and the Gobbins Path Visitors Centre. For more information on Marcon Fit-Out , telephone 028 9446 1222 or visit www.marconfitout.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

U event Julienne McCrea, Director, and Sam McCrea, CEO and Founder, cut the 25th anniversary cake.

Enjoying the fun day with family and friends are Julienne McCrea, Councillor Thomas Hogg, Sam McCrea and Sorcha Chipperfield.

Family fun for 25th anniversary celebrations…

Happy 25th birthday SAM!

S Richard Holmes, Managing Director, presents a prize to Benny Lynn, Shrink Wrap Operative, and family.

Paul Allen, Team Leader, and daughter, Lexi, having fun with the birds of prey.

10 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

AM employees and their families attended a Family Fun Day at the Antrim Forum to celebrate 25 years in business. SAM is a family-run business based on the Greystone Road in Antrim and manufactures high quality MDF mouldings including skirting and architrave, supplying products across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Chief Executive Officer, Sam McCrea, commented, “SAM started from an idea in my head a long time ago and has turned into a great organisation employing more than 160 people. It has gone way beyond our wildest dreams, but it has been a fantastic journey and we are still only part the way through.” SAM Managing Director, Richard Holmes, added, “We have always worked to the ethos of looking after our people. We are immensely proud of our staff. They are what have built this company over the years.” The family fun day for staff and their families was a reward from the company for 25 years of dedicated service and included characters Olaf and a Minion as well as face painting, balloon making, bouncy castles, football tournaments, cake stalls, birds of prey and many other fun activities. SAM also has a charity partnership with the Cancer Fund for Children and raised more money towards the company’s £10,000 target for the charity with fun challenges and activities as well as selling homemade cakes and various other goods. For more information on SAM visit www.sammouldings.co.uk or call 028 9442 8288.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

U PROJECT LEADS

Clare Legge, NI researcher for CIS Ireland, provides a regular insight into the latest projectS...

Brick bits... • Expressions of interest have been received for £10m film studios at Titanic Quarter, Belfast. • Donaghmore Construction Ltd is building two new boxing gyms for St Joseph’s and Springtown Amateur Boxing Clubs, Derry.

An artist’s impression of the proposed Parkhall Integrated College.

Key education projects boost industry

ork got underway this month on two major new build school projects in County Antrim. Felix O’Hare & Company Ltd started work on the new £15.4m school building for Castle Tower in Ballymena, while O’Hare & McGovern Ltd secured the contract for the new £16.5m post-primary school for Parkhall Integrated College in Antrim. Also in education, T&A Kernoghan Ltd won the contract to build the £7.7m four-storey teaching block at the University of Ulster Magee campus. In County Tyrone, PQQs have been received for the construction of a new £5m school and nursery unit for Omagh Integrated Primary School while, in County Fermanagh, the Education Authority has initiated proposals for a new £5.3m primary school for Enniskillen Model. It is encouraging that even with the current budget constraints that the education sector has also seen funding issued to a further six schools through the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). The schools to benefit include St Columb’s College, Derry for a new sports hall and drama classroom; a new £3.2m

sports complex at Victoria College, Belfast; as well as extensions to Anahorish Primary School, Toomebridge (£1.5m); Sacred Heart Grammar School (£1.4m); St Bernard’s Primary School, Newtownabbey (£860k); and St Mary’s Grammar School, Magherafelt (£2.7m).

COMMERCIAL On the commercial front, Kilmona Holdings Ltd has put forward initial proposals for retail and office buildings in Chichester Street, Belfast. Centre House could see a 5,000sqm extension, and Londonderry House will be demolished to make way for a 10-storey, 8,000sqm building. The company is also behind the plans to extend Ten Square Hotel, Belfast with the addition of 71 new bedrooms.

HOUSING Connswater Homes in the very early feasibility stages of a major social housing project for Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. The new development will provide hundreds of apartments which could be built in six or sevenstorey blocks.

The latest Republic of Ireland projects… Project Location Promoter Stage €18m School Buildings

Dublin

Department of Education

On Site

€8m Harbour Development

Cork

Port of Cork Company

Tender

€12m Whiskey Distillery

Meath

Slane Castle Irish Whiskey

Contract Award

€43m Residential Development

Dublin

Cosgrave Development

Plans Submitted

€15.2m Education Campus

Meath

Department of Education

On Site

€220m Bypass PPP Scheme

Wexford

Wexford County Council

Contract Award

€380m Road Scheme

Wexford

Wexford County Council

Contract Award

€25m Radiation Oncology Centre

Cork

Health Service Executive

Tender

€2.2m Hotel Extension

Dublin

Radisson SAS

On Site

€7.1m Manufacturing Building

Cork

Stryker Ireland Ltd

Contract Award

• PQQs are being sought for a £2.4m housing development in Hillsborough for Apex Housing Association (proposed 24 units). • Work has started on a new £240k Irish language and youth community centre in Belfast. • Proposals are invited by the Department for Social Development for a development opportunity site at Shankill Road, Belfast. • Plans have been submitted for a new medical facility (circa 920sqm) including theatres and overnight accommodation in Hillsborough.

For the latest construction leads, visit www.cisireland.com

12 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

U primers

BUILDING PRODUCTS MANUFACTURER, LARSEN DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF PRIMNG FOR CORRECT SUBSTRATE PREPARATION…

Be prepared!

enjamin Franklin once said “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”. While this familiar maxim applies to many aspects of life, it has particular resonance in the construction industry. Whether you are involved in rendering, screeding, tiling or any of the other wet trades you will at some point require a product to bond to the substrate you are presented with on site. The quality of this bond will only ever be as good as the substrate preparation. But why does a substrate require preparation? Contamination – Quite often in refurbishment work there are remnants of the previous finish, adhesive residues, dirt build-up or, in the case of new construction, there may be other products which have been applied for good reason, eg waterproofers or curing membranes. These contaminants can either be very difficult to bond to or may even breakdown under the new layer to give a weakness in the bond. Such surface contamination should always be removed. Surface weakness – A weak or dusty layer on the surface of the substrate is equally problematic. Subsequent products will bond to the weak surface, but this layer has a very weak cohesive strength and may subsequently fail, leading to delamination. Weak or dusty substrates should always be mechanically prepared until a sufficiently strong surface is exposed. Dense or low porosity substrates – These pose a problem on the other end of the scale. When the substrate provides little or no absorption and no mechanical key then mechanical preparation techniques are required or the use of specialist priming systems in order to ensure a good bond.

PRIMERS Priming can be an integral part of the correct preparation, but it is important to realise that it is not the end of the story. Priming cannot make a bad substrate good, nor should a good substrate be primed for the sake of it. Priming is usually carried out for two reasons,

14 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

either to reduce (or prevent) absorption into the substrate or to improve the adhesive bond to a low porosity substrate. While most primers will penetrate the surface layer of the substrate and help to bind it together, they often won’t penetrate deeply enough to make a really bad substrate good. Often the best methods of preparation are those which leave the surface of the substrate sufficiently hard and provide an absorbent, mechanical key. Typically, in larger scale flooring applications, vacuum enclosed shot blasting is the quickest and most economical method of preparation, but diamond grinding is also widely used. Care should be taken when using scabblers and needle guns as these can result in micro-cracking in the substrate. After surface preparation is carried out and the surface vacuumed, an assessment can be made to see if a primer is required. An alternative way to provide a good mechanical key, particularly on non-absorbent surfaces is to use a special epoxy primer onto which is broadcast to excess a suitable singlesized sand. Once the resin has cured and

the excess sand is removed, a sandpaperlike finish remains offering an excellent mechanical key. Similarly, in rendering applications a cementbased stipple coat can be applied to dense surfaces like precast concrete to give a suitable mechanical key for subsequent layers. In short, check the substrate. If it is weak or there is contamination, then mechanical methods of preparation will be required. Once this has been carried out, then assess again and take recommendations as to whether or not it is beneficial to prime the substrate and which priming system is recommended. Larsen can offer a wide range of priming systems, depending on the application, from the universal Acrylic primer and NP Keycoat for non-porous substrates through to more specialist epoxies, like EU Primer. For more information contact Jonathan Mooney or Andrew Duffy on 028 9077 4000 or visit www.larsenbuildingproducts.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

U EVENTS

Denis Boyle (far left) and Donal Boyle (second from right), both of Templecrone CoOperative, pictured with Chris McComb (left) and Martin Collins both from JP Corry.

The Point Building Supplies team – (from left) Paul Carroll, Conor Kelly, Maurice McGivern and Mark Kelly.

Customers from across Northern Ireland enjoy annual golf day in Belfast hosted by Saint-Gobain Construction Products (Ireland) Ltd…

Brian Dolan, Gyproc and Isover, (second right) pictured at the annual golf day with (from left) Robert Pedan, Tennants Building Products; Neil Collim, McCaig Collim; and Clive Grudgings, Lafarge.

GYPROC and ISOVER hit the greens

he annual Gyproc and Isover Golf Day was held once again at Malone Golf Club with 50 players representing merchants from across the province taking part. After some healthy competition, the overall event was won by Sean Glackin, of McDermots, Omagh. The company would like to thank all customers for taking the time to attend the event and look forward to 2016.

Martin McKenna of Gyproc and Isover, at the first tee with his team (from left) Ken Coulter, JP Corry; Alan Warburton, Haldane Fisher; and Kevin McCormick, Grafton.

Ready for the Gyproc and Isover Golf Day are (from left) Cormac Murphy, SIG; along with Peter Daly, Eglish Builders’ Merchants, Des Patterson, Murdock Builders’ Merchants and Jim Fey, all from Eglish Builders’ Merchants.

Saint-Gobain Gyproc Isover – Mark McCormick T: 07855 467301 W: www.isover.ie

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

EVENTS T

Niall Evans, Gyproc and Isover, (far left) welcomes fellow players (from left) James O’Hagan, BJ Mullan; David Orr, Tennants Building Products; and Alan Crampton, SaintGobain Ecophon.

David Rossiter, Gyproc and Isover, (far left) at the company’s annual golf day with (from left) Bob Glackin and Sean Glackin, both from McDermotts Builders’ Merchants; and Alan Cullen, Tennants Building Products.

Dermot McDaid, Murdock Builders’ Merchants (left) with Brian McAuley, Grafton, (centre) and Wayne Murphy, Gyproc and Isover.

John Shilliday, Shilliday Builders’ Merchants (centre) with Gyproc and Isover’s Sean Walls (left) and Mark McCormick.

Alan Shields, Haldane Fisher (centre) with Dirk Alderdyce and Tom Alderdyce, both from Samuel Kirk Builders’ Merchants.

Neil McGeown, JP Corry, (left) with Martin Coyle (centre) and Colm Neeson, both of JJ Coyle Builders’ Merchants.

Ready to hit the fairways are (from left) Pat McGeown, JP Corry; Robert Kennedy, Dowlers; Alan Davidson, Haldane Fisher; and Leslie MConkey, Dowlers.

Aaron Holywood, SIG, (far left) pictured with players from Tennants Building Products, (from left) Colm McCann, Scot McNeilly and Brian Steele.

Saint-Gobain Gyproc Isover – Martin McKenna T: 0797 1596401 W: www.gyproc.ie

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 17

SEE THE LIGHT CONFERENCE T

Watch

the full conference at

Major Passive House conference unlocks energy efficiencies in Enniskillen…

Attending the Passive House Conference at the Crest Centre, Enniskillen are (from left) Dr Shane Colclough, phai Chairman; Malachy McAleer, SWC Director; Sean McGuigan, Kingspan Product Manager and Tim Stokes, SWC Crest Manager.

Success for See the Light conference

T Malachy McAleer, Director of South West College, which hosted the conference.

Noel Rice, Energy Conservation Manager at NIHE, talks about energy efficiency policy and practice.

Bernadette McArdle, Louth County Council, provided details on Irish building regulations and BCAR.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

www.swc.ac.uk/st115

he Passive House Association of Ireland (PHAI) has hosted a major conference outside Dublin for the first time and the event has proved to be a real success. The ‘See the Light’ conference was organised by Crest Centre and the PHAI and brought together a host of international sustainability experts to the CREST Passive Pavilion, one of few non-domestic buildings that has been designed to meet the Passive House standard. Tim Stokes, CREST Manager, said, “Hosting this event gives us an opportunity to demonstrate the innovative approach we’ve taken to meet the Passive House standards in our own Passive Pavilion. CREST at South West College has been driving forward the mainstreaming of this standard in Northern Ireland by offering Passive House Designer and Tradesperson courses and facilitating technical events to build knowledge of the

Dr Shane Colclough, PHAI Chairman, welcomes delegates to the See the Light conference.

concept and relevant skills. “We know that construction firms are being challenged to adapt to legislative changes and increasing demands for higher levels of energy efficiency and standards of workmanship from customers. We’re providing a direct way for them to capitalise on the latest innovations and secure an advantage in a highly competitive market. ” The conference had a distinctly international and cross-border flavour with speakers originating from the Netherlands, UK, Ireland and Germany. Northern Irelandbased speakers included Willie Moffitt of construction company Moffitt and Robinson and Noel Rice, Energy Conservation Manager at NIHE. The main themes covered included passive house policy developments across the island of Ireland, new build case studies and the challenges of retrofitting the existing housing stock to very high levels of energy efficiency.

Barry McCarron CREST Passive House Designer, delivers his Magheraveely Enerphit case study.

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 19

construction excellence AWARDS T

construction

excellence OVERALL WINNER O’Hare & McGovern for Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN PARTNERING AWARD H&J Martin for Mount Stewart GENERAL CONSTRUCTION Commercial Construction Award Heron Bros for North West Regional Science Park Fit Out Award Martin & Hamilton for the fit-out of the Great Hall at Galgorm Resort & Spa Restoration Award H&J Martin for Mount Stewart

Awards night recognises excellence in construction

Social/Community Construction Award Lowry Building & Civil Engineering for Omagh Community Fire Station & District Headquarters HOUSING Private Housing Award Hagan Homes for Linen Lane

O’Hare & McGovern wins the top prize at for innovative awards ceremony…

Social Housing Award Donaghmore Construction for Lime Court, Peter’s Hill

GB & REPUBLIC OF IRELAND CONSTRUCTION AWARD McLaughlin & Harvey for the A82 Pulpit Rock Realignment

’Hare & McGovern has won the ‘Overall Winner’ of the Construction Excellence Awards 2015 at the Culloden. The award was presented to the construction firm by guest of honour, Dame Mary Peters, in recognition of its work on Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine (WWIEM) at Queen’s University Belfast. Hosted by the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), the awards also recognised an additional 14 category winners from across the construction industry in Northern Ireland for excellence in general construction, housing, infrastructure and quality assurance. The Construction Excellence Awards have been running for 16 years now and recognise the industry’s contribution to society in providing clean water, new roads, new homes, modern hospitals, fit-for-purpose schools and places to shop, work, worship and socialise. The Awards also celebrate the preservation of Northern Ireland’s built heritage and the efforts of construction companies across the province to

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protect their workers, the environment and jobs. Congratulating the overall winners, CEF Managing Director, John Armstrong, said, “O’Hare & McGovern’s work in delivering this wonderful new building is an excellent example of how our local construction industry is pivotal to the development of so many important projects across a wide range of sectors in Northern Ireland each year.” John also commended each of the 14 category award winners for their success against what he described as a “challenging backdrop” for the construction industry. “The local construction sector is undoubtedly in a stronger position than it was at its lowest point a couple of years ago, but there remain significant headwinds that confront the industry. “Despite these challenges, however, our local construction industry continues to deliver exceptionally highquality work both at home and abroad, as demonstrated so well by each of our shortlisted finalists and category award winners this evening.”

INFRASTRUCTURE Transport Infrastructure Award Lagan Construction Group for the A8 Belfast to Larne Dual Carriageway Health & Education Infrastructure Award O’Hare & McGovern for the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine Utilities Infrastructure Award Lagan Construction Group for Gravity II – McVeigh’s Well to Old Park SR QUALITY PERFORMANCE Environmental Sustainability Gilbert-Ash Training Award Lagan Construction Group Health & Safety Award Henry Brothers (Magherafelt) Exporting Award Gilbert-Ash

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OVERALL AWARD HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD WINNER: O’Hare & McGovern

Eamon O’Hare (far left) and Seanie O’Hare (centre), both from O’Hare & McGovern, and Damien Toner, Director of Estates at Queens University Belfast (far right), are presented with the Overall Award by (from left) Dame Mary Peters, Guest Speaker; Rhona Quinn, CEF President.

Combination of traditional techniques and innovative BIM technology at WWIEM project at Queen’s is recognised by the judges…

O’Hare & McGovern win the top prize! O’Hare & McGovern has won the top prize at this year’s Construction Excellence Awards for the company’s work on the highly complex Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine (WWIEM) at Queen’s University. After winning the Health Infrastructure Award, the company went on to be awarded the night’s top award for completely what is currently the biggest BIM project to be undertaken in Northern Ireland. The five-storey bio-medical research and development building for Queen’s University Belfast is an interdisciplinary research facility built on the University’s Institute of Health Sciences campus on Jubilee Road, opposite the Belfast City Hospital. The WWIEM building has an internal area of 9,000m², providing accommodation for some 330 members of staff who specialise in research into finding cures for eye disease and diabetes. Staff also work on the development of a global programme to aid the understanding of the genetics of complex

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chronic diseases. The building is organised into two main accommodation blocks - the north block containing administration and research facilities on the ground floor and labs on the three floors above. The south block provides a car-park at ground level with three floors of labs above. The blocks are all organised around a central atrium, with a basement level accommodating a seminar room, additional lab support spaces and areas of plant. A second atrium at the main entrance provides a foyer to the building and a buffer between the existing Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology (CCRCB building). The WWIEM has been constructed directly adjoining the CCRCB building, with limited connection at each floor. As a result, the WWIEM building had to be constructed to a design that matched the ceiling heights of its neighbour. However, the complexity of the laboratory requirements of the WWIEM building meant a high level of

services had to be accommodated within a restricted space. This is where BIM played an integral role in maximising efficiencies during construction, with particular emphasis on the co-ordination of M&E services. O’Hare & McGovern worked closely with architect, Ostick + Williams; civil and structural engineers, Albert Fry Associates; and M&E contractor, Harvey Group, to develop the BIM model. O’Hare & McGovern also appointed White Ink Architects and O’Connor Sutton Cronin as part of the company’s own design and development team.

T: 028 3026 4662 E: carnbanehouse@ohmg.com www.ohmg.com

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Environmental Sustainability Award Exporting Award WINNER: Gilbert-Ash

Company’s trailblazing approach to GB contracts and a commitment to the environment are rewarded by the judges…

A quality performance from Gilbert-Ash

ilbert-Ash once again produced a quality performance by winning two awards in the Quality Performance category at this year’s Construction Excellence Awards. The award-winning UK construction and fitout contractor won both the Environmental Sustainability Award and the Exporting Award, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality. Of course, Gilbert-Ash is no stranger to awards, with the company’s work being recognised at the highest levels, most notably through the highly acclaimed Stirling Prize. For three years in a row, Gilbert-Ash projects have been shortlisted for this prestigious award - the Lyric Theatre, Belfast, in 2012, the Giant’s Causeway Visitor’s Centre in 2013 and the Everyman Theatre, Liverpool, which went on to win the 2014 Stirling Prize. By winning the Exporting Award, the judges recognised the growing stature of GilbertAsh outside of Northern Ireland.

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The company is seen as a trailblazer and has worked on a wide range of significant projects in Great Britain, including the Everyman Theatre in Liverpool; the British Film Institute and Master Film Archive in Warwickshire and the RAF Bomber Command Memorial in London, to name a few. Such has been the level of success outside Northern Ireland that Gilbert-Ash announced the creation of 40 new jobs in the first half of 2015. The substantial increase in staff numbers has been driven by a series of high profile contract wins across the UK, including the £13million contract to refurbish and extend the National Army Museum and the £20million refurbishment of the worldrenowned Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London. Yet in delivering consistently high level on projects such as this, Gilbert-Ash has remained committed to its corporate responsibilities. In recent years, the environment has become a central factor

to every project and this is an area that the company has played significant importance on – as highlighted by winning the Environmental Sustainability Award. By understanding that the company’s operations can have a positive effect on the local ecosystem and biodiversity, GilbertAsh has taken steps to ensure it always protects and, when possible, enhances the natural environment. In accordance with the company’s ISO 14001 management system, Gilbert-Ash has developed procedures to ensure it is able to assess the risk to ensure the environment is considered throughout all its business operations.

T: 028 9066 4334 E: belfast@gilbert-ash.co.uk www.gilbert-ash.com

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Transport Infrastructure Award, Utilities Infrastructure Award and Training Award WINNER: Lagan Construction Group

Pictured with the Transport Infrastructure, Utilities Infrastructure and Training Awards awarded to Lagan Construction Group are (from left) Graeme Irwin, Jodie Quinn and Mervyn Latten.

Lagan Construction GROUP and H&J Martin make it a highly successful night…

Five star performance from Lagan Construction Group

agan Construction Group put in five star performance at this year’s Construction Excellence Awards to not only showcase the company’s diversity but also the high level of expertise it delivers on each project. Lagan Construction Group followed up last year’s Overall Winner success by collecting two Infrastructure Awards – the Transport award for its work on the A8 Belfast to Larne Dual Carriageway and the Utilities accolade for Gravity II. Rounding off a great night was the Training Award. Adding to a hugely successful night was a double award presentation to H&J Martin, which joined the Lagan Construction Group of companies earlier this year. H&J Martin’s awards were in recognition of the company’s restoration work at Mount Stewart House.

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Lagan Construction Group’s work on the A8 consisted of creating a dual carriageway between the B95 Coleman’s Corner junction and the B100 Ballyrickard Road junction. This 14km upgrade of the existing route to dual carriageway standard has enhanced what is a strategically important road that, before the work was completed, carried in excess of 17,000 vehicles per day. The same high standards were in evidence on the Gravity II project, which was by far the highest profile trunk main rehabilitation project undertaken by Northern Ireland Water (NIW) within an urban environment, to date. The scope of the works involved 5.1km of 710mm HPPE being slip-lined through 33” PS concrete pipes which were laid through urban North Belfast streets, through residential

gardens and two well established golf courses between two major North Belfast reservoirs. Lagan Construction Group brought an existing pipeline that had been decommissioned in 1982 back into use, enabling NIW to utilise an asset capable of delivering 32ML (mega-litres) of water per day to North Belfast, and provide clean drinking water to over 100,000 people. While these two projects showcase the ingenuity of Lagan Construction Group, the Training Award represents the forwardthinking nature of the company. Lagan Construction Group offers a diverse range of services, including building, civil engineering, fit-out, infrastructure investment, operations and maintenance, piling and plant. Yet, despite this versatility, the company’s

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ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN PARTNERING AWARD RESTORATION AWARD WINNER: H&J Martin

Derek Martin (far left) and & Kellyann Smith (second right), both from H&J Martin, are presented with the Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award by Rhoma Quinn, CEF President and Gareth Johnston, of sponsors the Central Procurement Directorate.

training programme ensures consistent levels of quality. Central to this is a self-perform system that allows every section of the company to learn best practice from the other. As a result, all parts of Lagan Construction Group share the same systems, culture and approach to create a client centric approach.

MOUNT STEWART The Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award and the Restoration Award â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both presented to H&J Martin for the stunning restoration of Mount Stewart House - added to success of the Lagan Construction Group of companies. The Grade A Listed National Trust property in County Down is a popular tourist attraction, and the company was involved in a painstaking restoration to return it to its original glory. H&J Martin was placed under additional scrutiny throughout its work, with Mount Stewart remaining open throughout the restoration, which was also the subject of a UTV documentary. While the quality of the restoration speaks volumes about the attention to detail

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Maurice Ferguson, H&J Martin, (left) is presented with the Restoration Award by Rhona Quinn, CEF President and Brendan Smyth, of sponsors, CPD Health Projects.

delivered by H&J Martin, what visitors didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realise is the logistical operation that went on behind the scenes. H&J Martin and a team of conservation specialists met in excess of 500 times throughout the project to plan the protection of priceless artefacts, important health and safety considerations and, of course, the painstaking restoration. This intricate planning process was one of the key reasons why the judges selected H&J Martin as winners of the Achieving Excellence in Partnership Award. The work on the restoration was equally as challenging. This project required significant attention to detail, with H&J Martin working closely with the property conservator to ensure all the work remained true to the original building and restored the elegance and charm of the house. Mount Stewart House has layers of history and during its lifetime had 10 or more owners, with 20-30 different builders carrying out work of differing quality. Using old photographs and other historical documents, H&J Martin stripped back these layers to restore it to a state similar to when

it was home of the 7th Marchioness Edith, Lady Londonderry and her family in the early 20th Century. This required a range of specialist subcontractors and the use of different materials and techniques to recreate the original. It also demanded a lot of ingenuity, with H&J Martin dividing the entire building into zones to allow certain sections to remain open while the work was carried out. The company even introduced conservation workshops as an added attraction for visitors. Despite never knowing what was going to happen next, H&J Martin completed the project within the 30-month timeframe. This combination of traditional skills and the best of modern innovations has made H&J Martin a worthy winner.a worthy winner.

www.laganconstructiongroup.com

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FIT-OUT AWARD WINNER: Martin & Hamilton

David Hamilton, Managing Director of Martin & Hamilton, (left) is presented with the Fit-Out Award by Rhona Quinn, CEF President, and Gerry Millar, of sponsors Belfast City Council.

Martin & Hamilton’s work on luxurious wedding venue at the Galgorm Resort & Spa impresses the judges…

Great Hall scoops Fit-Out Award

artin & Hamilton and the Galgorm Resort & Spa proved the perfect marriage with the company’s work on the Great Hall a worthy winner of the Fit-Out Award. The Galgorm Resort & Spa is considered to be Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa and, as part of a £10million investment in the resort, Martin & Hamilton was awarded the contract to refurbish the Great Hall to create a luxurious wedding venue. The final result is stunning, creating a series of beautifully designed decadent spaces which offer a level of drama, sophistication and quality of craftsmanship that will be unsurpassed. Overall, the project consisted of the construction of an extension comprising a new entrance lobby, female washrooms and an external reception area. Internally, with the exception of the existing kitchen, all of the existing first floor area was

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refurbished to create a newly configured layout. In addition to upgraded mechanical and electrical services, this new layout included a champagne bar and washrooms, new floor and wall finishes. Martin & Hamilton’s attention to detail and commitment to quality is in evidence throughout the project, including within the new furniture, flooring, a feature bar with marble and gold accents and a spectacular waterfall. These features are complemented by exceptional interior design elements which give the suite a distinctly chic country house elegance. Warm colours, designer fabrics and attention to detail all combine to create a mood of traditional sophistication highlighting the beautiful features of this dramatic ballroom. But just as important as the fit-out finish is the company’s ability to work within

a strict timescale and budget. For this project, Martin & Hamilton completed the £1million contract within a 13-week period and delivered to the client’s exacting specification. In fact, the proof of this project’s success is highlighted by the fact that the company has also completed a second contract at the Galgorm. This time, Martin & Hamilton carried out the construction of a new four-storey, 48-bedroom extension along with a new indoor swimming pool, associated leisure facilities and outdoor Thermal Spa village. All of the work was successfully completed whilst the hotel remained fully operational.

T: 028 2565 3672 www.martinandhamilton.co.uk

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GB & Republic of Ireland Construction Award

SOCIAL COMMUNITY AWARD

WINNER: McLaughlin & Harvey

WINNER: Lowry BUILDING

McLaughlin & Harvey takes the high road to success

Blaze of glory for Lowry Building

he growing success of Northern Ireland companies working on projects in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland has been recognised with the introduction of this new category, with McLaughlin & Harvey the winners of the inaugural GB and RoI Construction Award title. The company was rewarded for the A82 Pulpit Rock Realignment project in the picturesque setting along the banks of Loch Lomand in Scotland. However, despite the picture postcard setting, the team from McLaughlin & Harvey faced innumerable challenges that tested the company’s vast experience. The design and builder contract involved the construction of a six-span, 175m long viaduct along the shore of Loch Lomond. The works also entailed the stabilisation of rock, which was cut to widen the road over a length of 400m, and the removal of a historic bottleneck which had been under traffic light control for over 30 years. The award recognises the many challenges faced by the site team during construction, and the added benefits the scheme brings both aesthetically and in the reduction of congestion along the A82.

T: 028 8167 8646 E: info@lowrybuilding.co.uk www.lowrybuilding.co.uk

T: 028 9034 2777 www.mclh.co.uk

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owry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd has won a second award for the company’s work on Omagh Community Fire Station. The project is already the FMB’s Commercial Project of the Year and has now received the Social Community title from the CEF. The state-of-the-art Community Fire Station & District Headquarters on the Killybrack Road represents an investment of £4.4million and includes on-site facilities for firefighter training, transport and engineering workshops, as well as a dedicated community engagement facility with a strong focus on fire, road and community safety activity. The Station also includes an incident command room that will be used during major or protracted incidents and can also be used as a multi-agency facility where a co-ordinated response is required, for example during major incidents and weather-related incidents such as flooding, heavy snow or gorse fires. It will also be used for multiagency resilience planning and emergency training exercises. In addition, the Station has a dedicated transport and engineering workshop that is utilised by all 20 fire stations in Western Area Command.

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COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION AWARD WINNER: Heron Bros Ltd

The appliance of science by Heron Bros Ltd

n a highly competitive category, Heron Bros Ltd took the top honours to win the Commercial Construction Award for the company’s work on the North West Regional Science Park (NWRSP). Having completed the Northern Ireland Science Park in Belfast a number of years ago, Heron Bros took this experience to create a purpose-built facility at Fort George in Derry-Londonderry. The NWRCP provides 50,000sqft of ‘flexible’ workspace on the site of the former Army Barracks. The high-tech, super-connected premises provide flexibility for start-ups and companies of any size, ranging from a single ‘hot desk’ to large-scale workspace, as well as meeting spaces, a café, on-site parking and secure cloud data storage. The NWRSP has its own data centre and houses, among other professionals, specialists in software, telecoms, digital media, health and bioscience, clean tech and television production. However, it is the specialists at Heron Bros Ltd that have helped make this hub for future innovation and technology businesses in the North West a success. The high standard of workmanship is evident across a wide range of projects completed since the company was formed in 1956, including health, commercial, industrial, retail, leisure, education and social development projects.

T: 028 7962 8505 - E: info@heronbros.com www.heronbros.com

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HEALTH & SAFETY AWARD WINNER: Henry Brothers

Henry Brothers in a good state of health

enry Brothers has collected yet another award that recognises the company’s dedication to corporate responsibility. Hot on the heels of the company receiving the Business in the Community Business and Biodiversity Award in recognition of its commitment to biodiversity, Henry Bros has now been rewarded for the company’s focus on health and safety. While health and safety is important in every area of work, it is of vital importance within the construction sector. In addition to complying with statutory obligations, Henry Brothers goes further than expected by incorporating health and safety systems that reflect the company’s commitment to quality. Key to this is communication with staff to ensure that the health and safety policy is under continual review and that improvements can be made quickly and effectively. The systems include arrangements for ensuring safety and the absence of risks to health in connection with the use, handling, storage and transport of articles and substances. In order to achieve this, Henry Brothers is committed to a training and supervision regime that ensures the health and safety at work of employees is of the highest standards.

T: 028 7963 1631 E: info@henrybrothers.co.uk www.henrybrothers.co.uk

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Private Housing Award

Social Housing Award

WINNER: Hagan Homes

WINNER: Donaghmore Construction

Heather Burton, Director at Donaghmore Homes (left) receives the Social Housing Award from Rhona Quinn, CEF President and Oliver McAllister, of sponsors, PWC.

Home comforts for Hagan Homes

ith housing firmly back on the agenda within Northern Ireland, Hagan Homes has laid down a marker by winning the Private Housing Award. The company had already highlighted its quality by being shortlisted in this category for two of its developments - West Circular Close in Belfast and Linen Lane in Bangor – with the stunning seaside scheme taking the plaudits. Set in a semi-rural location on the edge of Bangor, this development incorporates one, two and three bedroom homes, all with a turnkey finish of the highest standard. But it is much more than just a residential development. Its layout and construction represent a major shift forward in contemporary architectural design, with Hagan Homes placing an emphasis firmly on creating an environment in which people can live and relax. This focus is highlighted through the use of a vibrant ‘village green’ with landscaping and open areas, forming the focal point for the scheme. This is further enhanced with the design and finish that draws upon the rich architectural heritage of this seaside setting. All of these factors are indicative of the standards that Hagan Homes has consistently delivered on every project over the last 25 years.

T: 028 9334 2234 E: info@haganhomes.co.uk www.haganhomes.co.uk

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Commitment to quality by Donaghmore Construction

onaghmore Construction has won the Social Housing Award for the company’s Lime Court scheme in Belfast. Located at Peter’s Hill in the city, the project was one of the first completed for Choice, Northern Ireland’s largest housing association that was formed by the merger between OakleeTrinity and Ulidia Housing Associations. At Lime Court, Donaghmore Construction created 13 new apartments with a common room and associated communal facilities. Built alongside an existing development, the traditional brick and block, cavity wall construction also included associated engineering services and external site development works. The scheme met Secured By Design accreditation, Lifetime Homes and Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3 standards. All this was achieved without affecting staff or residents in the existing units on site. Donaghmore Construction continues to impress with its social housing schemes and the company has recently confirmed a number of new contracts in this sector including projects in Bangor for Choice; Belfast for Helm Housing and in Dungannon for Habinteg.

T: 028 8774 6235 E: info@donaghmoreconstruction.com www.donaghmoreconstruction.com

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COOL

ENERGY EFFICIENT AND ERP COMPLIANT FOR

A rated

Copper Industries (Ireland) Ltd (NI) T: +44 (0)28 7965 9736 www.copperindustries.co.uk

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Upcoming CIOB in Ireland Northern Centre Events Autumn 2015 TOPICS INCLUDE OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION, SOCIAL MEDIA AND NEc CONTRACTS…

CIOB set to host two CPD events

ovember provides two exciting continual professional development events by the Chartered Institute of Building. On November 12, 2015, there is a tour of McAvoy Group’s Lisburn factory along with a presentation. With modular and offsite construction becoming a growth area in the construction industry, this event will provide attendees with the opportunity to see how a local construction company is competing, both locally and outside of Northern Ireland, based on a ‘think smart, build smart’ philosophy and continuing to win new business. Then, on the morning of November 26, Belfast-based law firm Cleaver Fulton Rankin will host a presentation on a topic of growing interest among construction professionals. The presentation will be titled ‘Social Media – Potential Issues for Employers’. Solicitors Michael King and Aisling Byrne will be addressing the following issues as part of their presentation - Social media misuse by employers; IP/ data protection issues; and Guidance on protecting your business. Social media channels, including LinkedIn and Twitter, are increasingly becoming main-stream methods of communication. Not many people are aware that, if an employee sets up a LinkedIn account when at work, connects with all the company’s clients then decides to leave, there is a case to then ask that employee to delete their LinkedIn account before they leave. Michael and Aisling will be addressing such issues as part of their presentation. The second speaker will be Construction Consultant Steve Brown MCIOB from Steve Brown & Associates who will be presenting on the NEC form of contract. Steve has been working with the NEC contract since its introduction in 1993 and has lectured on the subject since 1996. He also has provided feedback to the NEC drafting committee on various topics including editions to the suite and has provided training for many public and private organisations. Notably he advised the client of Titanic Belfast on the use and selection of the most appropriate form of NEC contract. Commenting on the events, Gerard Graham MCIOB, Senior ViceChair of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre said, “We recognise that everyone has busy itineraries so these events have been planned to each last less than two hours. Strong interest has been received so far and particular interest has been received relating to the legal issues to be aware of when using social media in construction. It will be very interesting to hear the opinions and advice from two Solicitors on this topic.” Other CIOB events are currently being planned - check www.ciob.org for details.

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Event: Factory Tour and Presentation Date & Time: 12 November 2015 commencing at 15:00 Expected Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes Location: McAvoy Group, 2 Ferguson Road, Knockmore Hill Industrial Estate, Lisburn, BT28 2FW Description: McAvoy Group is one of the UK’s leading offsite construction companies specialising in the delivery of large scale design & build contracts across a diverse range of sectors. We are pleased to offer an opportunity to visit one of the company’s state of the art production facilities where you will see first-hand the technology, materials and processes utilised in producing innovative buildings to meet a dynamic marketplace. The factory tour will also include a RIBA certified presentation on offsite construction.

Event: Seminars Date & Time: 26 November 2015 commencing at 09:30 Expected Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes (in total) Location: Cleaver Fulton Rankin, 50 Bedford Street, Belfast, BT2 7FW Description: Presentations will be conducted on the following topics: • Social Media – Potential Issues for Employers: This includes an update on the risks and opportunities that Construction Professionals need to be aware of. • NEC Form of Contract: An overview of the different contract options and an update on recent case law relating to its use on construction projects.

Cost: Free to CIOB members. Booking: Pre-booking is required. Please contact: Mandy Coleman, Acting Branch Manager CIOB in Ireland Tel: 00 353 1 236 9851 Email: mcoleman@ciob.org.uk Web: www.ciob.org

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U BATHROOMS

New appointment aimed at building on strong relationships with architects and builders working in the housing sector…

Bathroom delight for developers at Haldane Fisher

A Noel Duff, Showroom Development Manager.

rchitects and building contractors looking for the leading bathroom solutions for their new homes should look no further than Haldane Fisher. While builders are accustomed to working with the company to source construction materials ranging from timber to bricks and everything in between. However, the company has invested significantly in the

plumbing and heating division, and the appointment of Noel Duff as Showroom Development Manager is designed to build stronger relationships with building contractors and architects. “With such a vast bathroom range on offer, we can provide customers with a diverse choice to meet their needs, regardless of the style of development. Not only do we have

“With such a vast bathroom range on offer, we can provide customers with a diverse choice to meet their needs.” 32 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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a starter home range, a mid-level range and then the choice of some top-end products, but we also cover a selection of styles from the traditional to the contemporary. We even have our own exclusive product ranges. “I am currently working with one building contractor on three different developments and we have been able to tailor each solution to the style of the homes. Of the two developments in Lisburn, one is aimed at first-time buyers, while the other is for those wanting to move into something bigger, so we have been able to offer a mid-level range. The final development in Belfast is quite exclusive and, again, we have been able to meet these requirements.” Noel added, “We have showrooms all over Northern Ireland which contractors can use to look at our range or, alternatively, they can bring home-owners to look around. More and more developers are providing home-owners with a couple of choices, while some have returned to PC Sums, so this works perfectly for them.”

Noel’s vast experience in the bathroom sector is matched by the quality of products available from Haldane Fisher, not to mention the company’s high levels of service. Following hot on the heels of the appointment of Eamonn McCarthy as Associate Director for Plumbing & Heating and Paul McDowell as the new sales representative covering the Lisburn, Bangor and Belfast branches, Haldane Fisher has again highlighted the company’s commitment to improving service. Noel joins from Robinson and Butler and brings extensive industry experience to the newly created role that will see him focus on boosting the showroom aspect of the division, as well as working directly with contractors and consultants to supply a wide range of projects for major contracts. “Noel is well known and well respected in the industry, and I am looking forward to working closely with him to enhance our service to builders and architects,” said Eamonn. “Noel’s appointment is part of our continual drive for improvement therefore the addition of

someone so experienced can only be a good thing for Haldane Fisher and our customers. “This is all part of our overall vision for the plumbing and heating division within Haldane Fisher and it further strengthens an already strong team.” Noel, who has also previously worked for Shires Bathrooms and Spendlove C.Jebb within the plumbing and heating industry, added, “I am looking forward to this new challenge and I am excited about the plans Haldane Fisher have in place. “I have experience within retail, commercial and distribution and I will need these skills and many more for this new role. But there is already a solid foundation in place for me to work from, and I am confident we can build on this to build this side of the plumbing and heating division. “I am keen to talk to as many builders, architects and consultants as possible about what we can provide.” For more information contact Noel Duff on 07969 130101.

For further information, contact, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, Co. Down, BT35 6QQ. T: 028 3026 3201 - F: 028 3026 8101 - www.haldane-fisher.com • NEWRY • BANGOR • PORTADOWN • LISBURN • BELFAST • COLERAINE • LARNE • BALLYMENA

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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U NEW WEBSITE

Improvements to navigation and functionality make it easier to access detailed product information and CAD drawings, order samples and book a CPD seminar…

SAM launches new website S AM is inviting visitors to explore its new website, which has been designed to provide the ultimate user-friendly experience with improved navigation and functionality throughout. It allows customers to access detailed product information, download CAD drawings, literature and installation guides, order product samples or book a CPD seminar. To help customers make informed purchasing decisions, the site includes extensive information on SAM’s core profiles across a range of products, including skirting and architrave, door linings and casings, windowboard, stair accessories, kitchen mouldings, picture frame mouldings, cladding, fascia and soffit, decorative bargeboard and window components. The site provides details on product thicknesses, widths, board grade and finishes

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available, including primed, unprimed, fullyfinished or wrapped in paper, real wood veneer or PVC. Visitors can view information on completed project details, products supplied, photos and customer testimonials. Technical information, CAD drawings, ISO and FSC documentation, installation instructions and industry hints and tips are also available to download from the site. This is all in addition to a number of new features incorporated into the website, to give customers additional ways to contact SAM, such as the online sample request form and CPD booking form. The Visit Northern Ireland section of the site provides customers with travel and accommodation information to make it easier to book any trips to the SAM factory and offices. It also provides information

on local restaurants and presents the SAM bucket list – the top ten things to do in Northern Ireland - selected by SAM employees. Created with the customer firmly in mind, the website has been designed using the latest technology so the site is compatible with today’s browsers and mobile devices. The new SAM website means that customers can now benefit from richer online content that is easier to navigate and share with others, assisting the specification process. This is a result of talking to customers and gaining valuable feedback. Visit the new site at www.sammouldings.co.uk and let SAM know what you think by using the Contact Us section of the site or by e-mailing marketing@sammouldings.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Leading Manufacturer of MDF Mouldings

Introducing the new SAM website Designed with the customer in mind • Detailed product information and profile images • Key contacts within SAM • Online CPD booking form • Online sample request form • Downloads including: - CAD drawings - ISO certificates - FSC documentation - Industry tips and tricks - Installation instructions - Literature - Technical information • Completed projects and testimonials • FAQs • Company news • Visit Northern Ireland section including information on travel and accommodation

Springfarm Architectural Mouldings Ltd Newpark Industrial Estate Greystone Rd Antrim Northern Ireland BT41 2RU T +44(0)28 9442 8288 F +44(0)28 9442 8244 E info@sammouldings.co.uk sammouldings.co.uk

U NEWS

QPANI launches future agenda

Andrew Tough, RICS NI Chairman, launching the 2016 RICS Awards alongside Ben Collins, RICS NI Director, Susan Mason, RICS NI, and Alistair Dunn, Chairman of the judging panel.

RICS Awards launched for 2016

he RICS’s annual search for Northern Ireland’s top building projects gets underway with a call for local professionals to showcase the high calibre of their work. The organisation’s 2016 awards will include eight categories to reflect the full breadth of excellence across the property and construction sectors in Northern Ireland. In addition to Project of the Year, prizes categories include Building Conservation, Commercial, Community Benefit, Design & Innovation, Infrastructure, Regeneration, Residential, and Tourism & Leisure. Entry to the awards, which are open to

all practitioners within the property and construction sectors, is now open, with a final entry deadline of January 15, and early bird offers for entries received by November 30. Every Northern Ireland category winner will go forward to the RICS Awards Grand Final in London, where they will compete with other regional winners from across the UK. Meanwhile, RICS NI has appointed a new chairman, Andrew Tough, who has over 30 years’ experience in the property sector and is the executive responsible for managing Danske Bank’s premises in Northern Ireland. Further information, telephone 028 9032 2877 or visit www.rics.org

he Quarry Products Association NI has called for economic and political conditions that support investment, and in particular, a fully functioning Executive, to be responsive to the challenges and opportunities ahead. The appeal from the Northern Ireland trade association for the aggregates, asphalt, concrete and lime industries heads the list of a detailed document to launch its agenda for 2016–2020. In it, the QPANI also calls for better government support for an essential industry, a reasonable ‘licence to operate’, proportionate legislation and regulation, and recognition of progress, especially in the area of sustainability. Entitled, ‘Delivering for Northern Ireland… Enhancing our quality of life’ the document outlines how quarrying is an essential part of modern society, and that aggregates are a vital resource for economic growth and development, making a significant contribution to Northern Ireland’s prosperity and quality of life. For further information, telephone 028 9082 4078 or visit www.qpani.org

Careers boost for civil engineering profession

igures from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) predict that the civil engineering sector in Northern Ireland could create up to 535 graduate jobs over the next five years, with a further 600 undergraduate placements and 418 ‘other work’ or training opportunities also anticipated. Just over 130 graduate civil engineering jobs were created by Northern Irish firms in the last 12 months, with 128 undergraduate placements and 90 ‘other work’ or training opportunities for young people also provided. More further information, telephone 028 9087 7143 or visit www.cefni.co.uk

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Brigid McGuighan, Farrans Construction collects a business award for supporting education and employability at SERC’s annual graduation ceremony.

SERC celebrates class of 2015

arrans Construction and NHBC have been recognised for their contribution in helping to enrich the student learning experience through the provision of industry projects, educational visits and work placement opportunities. The companies were recipients of special business awards at South Eastern Regional College’s annual graduation ceremony at the Waterfront Hall, Belfast. For more information, call 0845 600 7555 or visit www.serc.ac.uk

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U ACOUSTICS SEMINAR

Alan Crampton, Regional Manager Ireland for Saint-Gobain Ecophon, Acoustic Consultant Adrian James of Adrian James Acoustics and Shane Cryer, Saint-Gobain Ecophon, ahead of the BB93 seminar.

Following on from a successful seminar in Belfast, Adrian James, AT Queen’s University Belfast, provides a 10 step guide on the new BB93 acoustic design of schools…

Designing for special educational needs

ince the launch of the new BB93 acoustic design of schools, Shane Cryer, of Saint Gobain Ecophon, has been running a series of BB93 roadshows around the UK and Ireland, accompanied by Institute of Acoustics (IOA) guest speakers. In the latest seminar at Queen’s University Belfast, Adrian James, an acoustics consultant and a BB93 committee member, addressed the question many asked at the recent Acoustics and Noise Consultants conference, and which has caused much head scratching amongst main contractors. This is especially pertinent for those involved in PSBP frameworks - How do you achieve the new SEN classroom standard? Shane explained, “From Heriot-Watt research to the more recent Essex study, we have seen that applying acoustic conditions that support SEN learning actually benefits everyone. “Students don’t become so fatigued when speech intelligibility is optimised; the

ability to memorise and focus increases and behaviour improves. “For teachers, stress levels, especially vocally, diminish, and they take less sick days. So, it is no surprise that a more onerous acoustic standard has appeared in the UK Government’s priority schools build programme and in the new acoustic standards for schools, Building Bulletin 93, part of Building Regulations E4. “This new SEN standard requires the same reverberation time of 0.4 seconds or less but, over a wider frequency range - 125–4000Hz. The challenge lies in absorbing the lower bass frequencies that we sometimes experience coming from cars or noisy neighbours playing their music too loudly. The ability of these frequencies to resonate and pass the energy through masonry walls, for instance, means that they can also pass through traditional suspended ceilings and bounce back into the room.

“This high energy, low frequency sound is particularly disruptive to hearing impaired, autistic and ADHD students.” Part of the solution lies in utilising a bass absorber at strategic points within the classroom and following the advice outlined below in Adrian James’s 10 steps to SEN: 1

Keep the room size down - Reverberation naturally increases with room volume, so large rooms need more acoustic treatment. Children with special needs should generally be taught in smaller classes anyway.

2 For the same reason keep the ceiling height down. Things get difficult at more than about 2.4 m. 3 Use only ‘Type A’ absorptive finishes – these are the most efficient and so reduce the areas required. However, the SEN

“We have seen that applying acoustic conditions that support SEN learning actually benefits everyone.” 38 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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ACOUSTICS SEMINAR T

Adrian James from Queen’s University Belfast explains the benefits of BB93 and how it works in the acoustic design of schools.

HeAR the difference for yourself

Visit www.ecophon.co.uk/ auralisation to hear how BB93 makes all the difference

standard also controls low-frequency (bass) reverberation time, so you will also need some bass absorption.

7 It follows that meeting the SEN standard in classrooms with exposed soffits (thermal mass) is difficult but not impossible.

4 If possible, use dry-lined walls as these provide some useful bass absorption at no extra cost. The new standard also lets us include the effects of furniture and fittings.

Whatever the ceiling type, you will almost certainly need some acoustically absorbent wall panels as well. At least some of these should be at ear height, so they should be robust.

A conventional class A suspended ceiling tile is most efficient and provides some bass absorption, especially if you use proprietary ‘Bass pads’ on top of the tiles.

Conventional ‘Sabine’ calculations are unreliable for this type of room. To get the design right you really need a 3-D acoustic computer model.

If, for some reason, you can’t have a suspended ceiling, consider suspended horizontal baffles or ‘rafts’. These are very efficient because both sides are absorptive, but they are not great at low frequencies, so you will need a lot of bass absorption from wall panels.

10 You need acoustics consultants who are experienced in this type of design. Involve them early to advise on room shapes and sizes. By commissioning the completed rooms, they can also learn how effective different designs are in practice.

Ecophon Regional Manager, Alan Crampton, said, “I have been involved in many school projects over the years, many retrospectively, as not all of them were designed with good room acoustics in mind. “To hear the difference that acoustic treatment can make in a classroom, sports hall or corridor still amazes me. It really does change these spaces for the better, allowing our children to receive, respond and understand what is being taught to them. “BB93 has been a big part of the education sector in Northern Ireland for some time. Despite it being guidance, specifiers have recognised the value it brings to school design. These new amendments have strengthened the acoustic message in the province, and have helped architects meet, and exceed, the necessary requirements for an excellent learning environment in Northern Ireland, for all students.”

Alan Crampton, Regional Manager Ireland, Saint-Gobain Ecophon T: 012 5685 0977 – M: 07979 703421 – E: alan.crampton@ecophon.co.uk www.ecophon.co.uk

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U 10TH ANNIVERSARY

Dedication to service is ingrained in a decade of success at leading merchants…

Murdock Builder’s Merchants Serving you better in Duncrue for 10 years Murdock’s Duncrue customer Mark from Ardnagesson enjoys some birthday cake.

he Duncrue branch of Murdock Builder’s Merchants has been celebrating a decade of success with a number of events and promotions recently. The Belfast branch – one of three the company has in the city - marked the 10-year milestone on October 13 with a breakfast morning at the busy trade counter and followed it up with a range of special promotions, both in the branch, online and on social media. The events and promotions are a ‘thankyou’ from staff at the branch to the loyal customers who have helped the branch reach this significant birthday. Sales Manager, Martin Roe, is well placed to talk about the success of the branch, given that he has been there since it first opened. “We have about eight staff who have been

at the Duncrue branch since it opened 10 years ago, with many of us having worked for Murdock’s for a lot longer,” said Martin. “The company has a proud history of retaining staff and promoting from within and I think that makes a big difference when it comes to the service we deliver.” This is a theme throughout Murdock Builder’s Merchants and is one of the key reasons why the company remains so successful within a competitive marketplace. “It is definitely important,” said Martin. “My first job with the company was working in the yard and then I moved to internal sales before becoming the first sales rep for the Duncrue branch and then being appointed Sales Manager last year. The majority of our staff are the same and it gives you a good insight into every level of the business.

“Throughout the company, the one thing that is instilled in you is our values when it comes to customer service.” 40 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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10TH ANNIVERSARY T

Murdock’s Duncrue staff celebrate their tenth anniversary at the birthday breakfast morning.

Murdock’s Duncrue Sales Manager, Martin Roe, (centre) with John Henry and David Wilson from Evo-Stik.

“Throughout the company, the one thing that is instilled in you is our values when it comes to customer service. This is the primary focus of everyone and includes how you deal with customers on a day-to-day basis, how you maintain stock levels and how you make sure you deliver time after time. “This ethos is ingrained in all our staff – from those who have been here for a long time to a new recruit. The last 10 years at Duncrue have proved that this approach works perfectly and we will continue to build on this success.” When you drive through the front gates at the Duncrue branch you immediately get a visual representation of the vast array of products it stocks. These impressive stock levels cover every construction requirement and if it doesn’t, the company will happily source what you need.

“We work closely with all our suppliers to highlight the latest products they have on the market and to get ahead of changes to regulations.” This is demonstrated by signs displayed in the yard and at the trade counter that read, ‘If you don’t see what you want, ask. If we don’t have it, we’ll get it’. Some companies use statements like this as a marketing gimmick, but at Murdock’s it is a declaration of positive intent – and it doesn’t only relate to products. “We open longer than other merchants and that is a direct response to listening to our customers,” added Martin. “We are open Monday to Friday from 7am-5.30pm and on Saturday from 8am-1pm, which means our customers can beat the traffic and get onto site quickly with the products they need. It was a request we had a number of times, so we are happy to deliver.” Murdock’s also enjoys that same strength of relationship with the company’s suppliers. “We work closely with all our suppliers to

Ready for cake! Gary Ryan, Murdock’s Duncrue Branch Manager, (centre) with Brian Hargy, Sales Rep, and Kane Roberts, Internal Sales.

highlight the latest products they have on the market and to get ahead of changes to regulations. We have knowledgeable staff and while much of that is gained through experience, they are also continually learning from our manufacturers and passing that knowledge on to our customers.” Looking ahead, Martin said that the same commitment to service will continue. “We have worked hard to firmly establish ourselves and by continuing to work closely with our other branches in the city at Kennedy Way and Castlereagh, we can offer an enhanced service for customers working in Belfast. “We will continue to listen and learn from our customers and react accordingly, with impressive stocks, competitive prices and, of course, great service, helping to meet their needs.”

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BP T: 028 90744744 - F: 028 90744755 - E: duncrue@murdockbuildersmerchants.com Join the conversation online - www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com -

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 41

FMB News T

FMB NI continues to give members the edge and Northern Builder brings you some of the latest developments from the organisation...

Annual conference set to take place

MB NI has put together a diverse range of speakers for its annual Business Conference, which this year takes place on Friday, December 4, at La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Castlereagh, Belfast. Anyone involved in the construction industry is welcome to attend the event and avail of the opportunity to listen to leading speakers focusing on industry-relevant topics. Des Armstrong from the CPD will advise attendees on the Procurement Process and How/Where to Tender for work; while the issue of the new E-TendersNI will also be the focus of a CPD talk. Roger Priestly from SERC will explained how to improve your organisation’s online profile while Hollie Carroll, of SIB, will talk about how to achieve social clauses through the BuySocial NI Construction Model. Rounding off the event, which runs from 10am-3pm, is CITB NI’s Barry Neilson who will showcase the organisation’s Virtual Training Room. To book your place or for more information, e-mail fmbni@fmb.org.uk

FMB warns that political uncertainty threatens resurgent construction sector

orthern Ireland’s improving construction sector will falter unless the political uncertainty in Stormont is resolved, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Commenting on the results of the FMB’s Q3 2015 State of Trade Survey, Maire Nawaz, Director of FMB NI, said, “The rug is about to be pulled out from underneath the construction sector in Northern Ireland, which has gone from strength to strength in the past few months. The situation for builders in Northern Ireland is frustrating because, after several highly challenging years, builders feel as if the recovery is finally starting to gain momentum. However, the political deadlock in Northern Ireland is having a negative impact on confidence and directly impacting on economic investment.” Maire continued, “In a recent survey from the Construction Industry Group, 100% of respondents claimed that the current impasse is resulting in a negative view of construction-related investment in

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Maire Nawaz, Director of FMB NI.

Northern Ireland by both external and local investors. “In addition, the FMB’s latest research shows that the skills time bomb is in danger of exploding with a staggering 60% of small construction firms struggling to hire bricklayers. This has leapt up from 49% just three months ago. Looking at other vital trades, 54% of firms are struggling to hire carpenters and joiners, up from 47% in the previous quarter. These are issues that require concerted political action and it’s imperative that we find a way to convince people that a career in construction is rewarding and worthwhile.” Concluding, Maire said, “With a turnover of £2.18 billion in 2014, and employing 10% of the working population, the local construction industry is of major importance to the Northern Ireland economy. The politicians need to agree a way forward. Failure to do so will have catastrophic implications for the local construction industry and the wider Northern Ireland economy.”

Shortage of general labourers and bricklayers

orthern Ireland has the greatest need for general labourers in the UK according to new research conducted by the FMB. The new figures have revealed that 66% of small construction firms admit they have been forced to turn down new business due to this lack of resource. Almost half have been forced to outsource work to third parties rather than leave work unfinished. The FMB survey reached out to its membership of 8,500 small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms, and also revealed that Northern Ireland also faces a shortage of bricklayers. The main reason cited for this widespread shortage is the difficulty in finding apprentices. Respondents claimed the lack of apprenticeships is the primary reason they believed potential candidates have been held back from joining the industry, followed by pressure from parents to stay in full-time education. Experts have estimated the industry needs around 35,000 new apprentices just to cope with demand, however in 2013, only around 7,000 apprentices completed their training. Further information on construction industry apprenticeships can be found online via the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) website.

Federation of Master Builders Unit 10, Kilbegs Business Centre, Plasketts Close, Antrim, BT41 4LY Tel: 028 9446 0416 www.fmb.org.uk www.findabuilder.co.uk

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U BRICK AND STONE

Polish Shakespeare Theatre uses a distinctive Vandersanden Group brick that is only available from Ireland’s leading brick distributor…

Kingscourt Country Manor range delivers a theatrical performance

ingscourt County Manor can help architects and contractors deliver a theatrical performance on their project after a brick from the company’s range was successfully used on a project in Poland. The Gdansk Shakespeare Theatre is built on the site of a 17th-century theatre, known as the Fencing School, where English travelling players performed works of English Renaissance theatre. The new theatre was modelled on the Fortune Playhouse in

London yet it is sympathetic of the Gothic elements that dominate the style of Gdansk’s Old Town, which includes the city’s 14th Century walls which the theatre is located next to. Both internally and externally, brick has been selected as the primary visual for this beautiful building. While Gdansk has a red brick milieu, the choice of the dark anthracite brick was chosen as a reflection of the nearby medieval churches and their atmosphere. As such, the distinctive dark colour of the

Morvan brick adds a new hue to the city. The Morvan brick is manufactured by the Vandersanden Group, the largest brickproducing family business in Europe. Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks is the sole distributor of Vandersanden bricks in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The facades feature a handformed anthractite brick, produced in Belgium with a mix of different kinds of clay. Measuring 208 × 98 × 51 millimetres, the bricks are made of a balanced clay mix, and

“To achieve the highest quality and finish, all Vandersanden bricks are made with loving care and craftsmanship.” 44 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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BRICK AND STONE T

As highlighted by the Gdansk Shakespeare Theatre, the Vandersanden range is stimulating the building world.

specific sand types are used for surface covering. The textured brick envelope is intended to express values such as tradition and timelessness, while also contrasting with the masonry of the surrounding buildings. Furthermore, it provides a rich contrast with the smooth white surfaces of the inner core. The clay pavers that are laid around the building, which comprise the floor of the ‘labyrinth’, as well as those used on the roof, are also fired in Vandersanden’s brick mills (at a maximum temperature of 1,150°C), and thus have the exact same colour as the facing. The colour and quality of the paving bricks is determined by the clay recipe and the baking process. In production, mixtures of fluvial and Westerwald clays were applied. In addition, the pavers are supplied with spacers, as part of patented product development by the brick manufacturer. The

spacers ensure that the bricks – despite the fact that they are laid in a ‘straight’ joint – are still approximately three millimetres apart, making it less likely for them to be damaged. The spacers also ensure that, with machine made paving, any chipping is reduced to a minimum. This distinctive range is available from Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks, Ireland’s leading brick distributor that is the sole distributor of Vandersanden bricks in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. As highlighted by the Gdansk Shakespeare Theatre, the Vandersanden range is stimulating the building world with exciting, innovative and beautiful finish options to bricks, suitable for all styles and tastes. With both companies sharing the same passion for high quality and elegant bricks, Vandersanden is a welcomed partner to the Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks group, and having this quality new range of Vandersanden

brick is a great boost to the company in a time of high demand. Whether you are renovating an existing building or designing something completely new, Vandersanden is a clear choice for builders, with warm, natural, stylish bricks which are also very environmentally friendly, made of a durable building material that can last for hundreds of years. To achieve the highest quality and finish, all Vandersanden bricks are made with loving care and craftsmanship. With bricks that are able to resist the ravages of time as well as continuously being reinvented, Vandersanden is a number one choice for builders. The Kingscourt Country Manor group is the largest brick supplier in Ireland, enjoying strong links with brick suppliers across Europe. Going against the brick shortage trend of other suppliers, the company is able to offer a supply guarantee on all pre-arranged Vandersanden contracts.

Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks, 12 Herdman Channel Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT3 9BL T: 028 9077 7321 – E: info@cmb.ie www.cmb.ie

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U company news

Duncrue branch offers a wide range of products and services, all backed by competitive prices…

Talk to the specialists at Lowdens Building Supplies

s with the diverse range of customers the branch deals with, Lowdens Building Supplies at Duncrue Crescent in Belfast offers a variety pack of services. Yet this is far from a case of being a ‘jack of all trades, master of none’. On the contrary, the branch has been developed to deliver a wide range of specialist services. In addition to being a leading supplier of building materials, Lowdens also boasts an MB Hire Centre, a dedicated Plumbing & Heating centre, also specialising in renewable sales, a landscaping display and a doors and floors area. However, when your customer base includes trade customers representing major contractors through to the one-man-band in addition to DIYers and self-builders, you definitely need to have something for everyone! “There’s a lot of competition in the merchant sector, so we feel that having an additional range of specialist services that complement our core building supplies service sets us apart,” explained Connor Couston, Branch Manager at Lowdens Building Supplies, Duncrue. “We have a sales rep out on the road who is working closely with contractors,

while our staff have a great working relationship with our customers. It all adds up to a complete service.” Connor believes that once you have tried Lowdens Building Supplies, you will be impressed. “We have a strong customer base but we have recently been using our promotional material to highlight our complete range to attract new customers,” he said. “Many people don’t realise the sheer scale of our products and services, and once we get them through the door, our job is to impress them enough that they not only come back, but also tell others about us. We are confident that, with our superb service levels, we can achieve that.” Connor added that the company recognises that contractors would prefer to be back on site with a full order rather than standing at a trade counter. The combination of the recently upgraded yard and increased stock holding, along with the new parking & extra width loading bays, allow for a speedy turn around for all shapes and sizes of vehicle. “This additional service has been a huge hit with our customers, enabling the contractor to get everything he needs in just one trip,

and at a pace that he prefers”. Connor has been working in the construction industry since he was 16 and has been Branch Manager at the Duncrue branch for the last five years. His 22-strong team boasts a mix of experience and new recruits – all of whom are on a constant learning curve. “We work hard to train and develop our staff,” he explained. “The industry is always changing and, with the downturn in construction, a lot of people have left this sector and, consequently, there’s been a lot of knowledge lost. That is where the experience of our team can help.” Another key advantage of working with Lowdens Building Supplies is that customers can link with the company’s other branches, not only in Belfast but across the province. Lowdens Building Supplies is part of Macnaughton Blair - Northern Ireland’s leading supplier of building materials to the construction and DIY industry. The group also includes specialist brands such as MB Architectural, MB Civils, MB Hire, Watershed Bathrooms and Moffett Thallon Doorways. The Belfast branches include Macnaughton Building Supplies; Peter Woods Building Supplies and the MRCB Paint Centre.

Lowdens Building Supplies, 42-44 Duncrue Crescent, Belfast, BT3 9BW T: 028 9037 0357 – E: lowdensduncrue@macblair.com www.macblair.com

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U LEGAL ADVICE

Lisa McMath OF Higgins Hollywood Deazley Solicitors provides legal advice on the increase in pavement Cafés…

The future of pavement

Cafés

he introduction of the smoking ban in 2007 catapulted the growth of pavement Cafés in Northern Ireland. Despite this growth, there is currently no legislation regulating such Cafés. The Pavement Café Bill was drafted by the Northern Ireland Assembly to nurture and regulate the Café culture. Moving the final stages of the Bill in the Assembly on 7th April 2014, the then Minister for Social Development, Mr Nelson McCausland, stated, “The Bill will provide district councils with a sound legal framework to regulate an activity that has been part of the streetscape for some time but has developed in a rather haphazard way. Well managed pavement Cafés will complement my department’s investment in public realm works in towns and cities across Northern Ireland”. The Assembly passed the Licensing of Pavement Cafés (NI) Act 2014, making it an offence to place furniture in a public area for the consumption of food and drink without a pavement Café licence. The Act defines “public area” as a place in the open air to which the public has a right of access, without payment, and which is not in a market area and “furniture” as tables, chairs, umbrellas, barriers, heaters and other articles for the facilitation of consumption of food or drink.

FUTURE APPLICATIONS Under the 2014 Act, all businesses supplying food or drink to the public shall apply for a pavement Café licence. The application is made to the district council and must include documentation incorporating a plan showing the location and dimensions of the public

48 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

area on which the applicant wishes to place temporary furniture for the purpose of consuming food or drink. Before granting a licence, the council shall consult with the Department of Regional Development. If the premises hold a pub licence, the PSNI must be consulted also. The Council must grant the application unless it considers it ought to be refused. Grounds for refusal are: 1. All or part of the public area is unsuitable. 2. Placing furniture on that specified area would be likely to result in undue interference or inconvenience to people or vehicles in the vicinity, or result in disorder. 3. The applicant has made a statement which he knows to be false or failed to comply with the notice requirements. 4. The applicant has previously had a pavement Café licence revoked. Where the council has given notice of a refusal, the applicant has a right of appeal to the Magistrates court within 21 days from the date on which the notice of refusal was given. A pavement Café licence shall remain valid for the period specified by the council in the licence, unless surrendered, revoked or suspended. Where no such period is specified, the licence will be valid indefinitely. The council has discretion to impose any conditions it considers reasonable in respect of the licence but certain conditions such as the requirement that that temporary furniture is not to be placed on any public area other than that covered by the licence must be included.

CONCLUSION In my view the Pavement Cafés (NI) Act 2014 is a welcome piece of legislation which should enhance Northern Ireland’s café culture and encourage growth and development of businesses. Whilst the Act received Royal Assent on 12th May 2014, disappointingly, it has yet to be brought into force.

If you have any pavement café queries or any property related questions, contact HHD Solicitors who would be happy to meet with you, discuss your concerns and provide legal solutions. Telephone 028 9077 0770 or visit www.hhdsolicitors.com

About the author… Lisa McMath is a solicitor at Higgins Hollywood Deazley Solicitors, who specialises in all property related matters, including commercial conveyancing, leases and liquor licensing and has represented clients in a number of high value transactions. Lisa also has extensive experience in estate administration, powers of attorney applications and in will and trust drafting.

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project profile T

community

At the heart of the Major renovation project at the Houben Centre creates flexible, multi-use community hub in Belfastâ&#x20AC;Ś g

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 49

U project profile

Main Contractor HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

Padraig McKaigue, Contracts Director for P&K McKaigue Ltd, presents the keys of the Houben Centre to Fr Gary Donegan, Holy Cross, Ardoyne. Also included are (from left) Michael Kane, Site Manager, P&K McKaigue Ltd, Brian McKee, Client Representative for Holy Cross Ardoyne Trust; Paul Turley, Project Architect from the Boyd Partnership; and Barry McGeough, Senior Quantity Surveyor for P&K McKaigue Ltd.

Collaborative and proactive approach by P&K McKaigue Ltd breathes new life into former community school…

Perfection

from P&K McKaigue Ltd

he former Holy Cross Boys’ Community School has been revitalised thanks to a major renovation carried out by main contractor, P&K McKaigue Ltd. Appointed by the Holy Cross Ardoyne Trust, P&K McKaigue Ltd was tasked with transforming this building, which was built at the turn of the 20th Century, into a new community building known as the Houben Centre. The project also included a separate contract to create a new car-park. Key to the success of this process was the detailed planning by the team, as Contracts Director, Padraig McKaigue, explained. “Our aim on every project is to work in a collaborative and proactive manner that keeps everyone focused on delivering the highest standards,” he said. “We produced a detailed programme and methodology for the project and our Site Manager, Michael Kane, held weekly and daily site co-ordination meetings between the respective suppliers and sub-contractors. “These meetings proved very productive and allowed us to keep everyone fully informed of the progress on the project. This is vital on every project but it is more important on a heritage job where unexpected issues can easily arise.” As it is a Listed building, P&K McKaigue had to ensure the original external appearance,

So impressed was the client that P&K McKaigue has been appointed to carry out additional work at Holy Cross Church. 50 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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as dictated by the Planning & Conservation guidelines for historic buildings, was retained. One of the first aspects that P&K McKaigue worked on was the roof. The original Bangor blue roof slates were stripped, allowing the roof timbers to be treated and replaced, where necessary. P&K McKaigue also added in new structural steel to firstly strengthen the existing roof but also accommodate the various new build extensions to the building. All the existing roof finials and vents were refurbished and a series of new rooflights and lanterns fitted before the roof was re-slatted using the original slates along with some reclaimed slates. The need to retain as much of the original building as possible also included the windows. The original sliding sash timber windows were refurbished and refitted as per the originals and secondary glazing introduced to enhance energy efficiency. Internally, the work carried out was extensive. The inside of the existing building was completely gutted, with new foundations and subfloors installed and a series of new internal masonry walls added. In order to protect the building, the perimeter brickwork was treated with tanking and injection DPM. All this was a precursor to the considerable M&E works throughout the project. This consisted of several specialist items including

a lift, access control, fire and security alarm system, underfloor heating, mechanical ventilation, and a new computer network. All this work has breathed new life into the building, with the enhanced facilities placing it at the heart of the community. The Houben Centre is a flexible community hub consisting of three multi-purpose halls that can be adapted to meet the needs of the event thanks to the acoustic tracked and mounted movable walls. The centre also includes interview/office rooms, board rooms, a catering kitchen, kitchenettes, toilets (including disabled) and reception areas. The rear of the building has been designed as a playgroup/crèche area with associated children’s toilets and a kitchen. It also includes an external secure soft play area outside the main playroom. The new entrance is made up of an aluminium PPC curtain wall system with a zinc clad canopy which adds a contemporary feel to the rustic listed façade. Externally a new foul and storm drainage system was installed with new utility connections. All the siteworks consisted of paving, tarmac, soft play area, soft landscaping and disabled friendly paths and ramps. The existing railings and gates were also refurbished, with any new additions

manufactured to replicate the originals. So impressed was the client with the work carried out by P&K McKaigue that the Holy Cross Ardoyne Trust has appointed the contractor to carry out additional work on the nearby Holy Cross Church.

Did you know... Maghera-based building contractor, P&K McKaigue Ltd, is well known for successfully delivering a diverse range of projects within the private and public sectors. With over 40 years’ experience in the building industry, there is no doubting the quality, expertise and reliability that P&K McKaigue Ltd can bring to a job. As each year has passed, the company’s versatility has improved, its client base has increased and strong relationships have been built and maintained with architects across the province. In the last decade the company have achieved third party H&S accreditation and continued development through Safe T Cert and are also UKAS accredited holders of ISO9001 Quality & ISO14001 Environmental. In the last 18 months the company has added a Pre-Tender/ Marketing Manager and full time SHEQ Manager to the team.

P&K McKaigue Ltd, 90 Main Street, Maghera, BT46 5AF T: 028 7964 2101 – E: mail@pkmckaigue.com www.pkmckaigue.com

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Modular Skylights HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

VELUX MODULAR SKYLIGHTS IMPROVE ENERGY PERFORMANCE AT THE HOUBEN CENTRE…

Innovative skylight system from VELUX

tate-of-the-art modular skylights from VELUX are a much envied feature of the modern facilities at the new Houben Centre. “Quite simply, there is nothing else like this product in Europe,” said Business Development Manager, Mark O’Neill. “They are used a lot in the healthcare, commercial, retail and education sectors – basically any building where there is glass on the roof. “This is only the third year that VELUX has been supplying these in Ireland, but it’s been going really well, and this is the third job we’ve done with McKaigue’s. There are lots of great benefits with this product. It’s a completely dry fit, and because its modular and comes already pre-fabricated, it can be easily put together on site, like a jigsaw,” he continued.

“We are getting steady calls about it and it’s now being specified in some prestigious projects, such as Ballymena Health Centre and a project at Queen’s University. It has also been installed at a brand new special needs school in Dundrum and a sports hall for the Ulster University at Coleraine.” As part of the top class service provided by VELUX Modular Skylights, the company also employs a VELUX Modular Technician who calls on site no less than three times to ensure client satisfaction with the product. The first visit takes place prior to the commencement of any work, to ensure the opening is suitable. Another call is made to offer help and support during the installation, and a final visit is made after job completion to do a last check. “VELUX puts great importance on ensuring the product is installed properly,” explained Mark. “We

are very proud of our high standards and attention to detail.”

INNOVATIVE VELUX Modular Skylights offer much more than ease of installation and sophisticated design; they also offer unparalleled levels of energy-efficiency, thanks to the innovative use of new materials. In fact, the company’s experts have designed a new material for the frame that has the strength qualities of aluminium and the rigidity and insulation characteristics of timber. With low-energy glazing units, VELUX Modular Skylights offer one of the lowest overall U-values for frame and glazing assemblies on the market - 1.4 W/m2K with a standard double-glazing unit and only 1.0 W/m2K with a standard triple-glazing unit for both fixed and venting modules.

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Furthermore, a life-cycle assessment shows that VELUX Modular Skylights offer a better environmental profile than traditional aluminium skylights. Hailed as a revolutionary new way of designing skylights, VELUX Modular Skylights are 100% modular, making them easy to specify, highly adaptable and comprehensive in features. The main components that make up the system are all pre-fabricated to fit perfectly, enabling a quick and safe building process – from mounting the skylights on the subconstruction to final wiring and automation setup. A unique bracket system with a simple clamp design guarantees a predictable installation process. This makes it possible to fit an entire module within minutes, protecting the structure from the elements and enabling a more comfortable building process. When designing with VELUX Modular Skylights all you have to do is choose the style that meets your design needs, download the CAD files from the company website’s Architect Tools section and incorporate VELUX Modular Skylights into your design.

Marking a shift in skylight evolution, the entire range of fully pre-fabricated skylights offer all the benefits of a modular system while maintaining an elegant design and excellent energy performance. They can be used in many building types, including offices, public buildings, educational buildings – the only limit is your imagination. Designed together with renowned architects Foster + Partners, this collaborative approach enabled VELUX to create a highperformance solution that maintains design flexibility. Intelligent design combined with top level energy performance is delivered by the use of slim profiles and a flush exterior to provide an elegant appearance. Chain actuators for venting modules are fully concealed, and the ultra-small motor is hidden inside the blinds. The internal blinds complete the interior with a free-floating design, while new framing material ensures a very low U-value. Complete daylight and ventilation control optimizes energy performance, and VELUX Modular Skylights boast a superior environmental profile compared to aluminium skylights.

“Intelligent design combined with top level energy performance is delivered by the use of slim profiles and a flush exterior to provide an elegant appearance.”

Domestic market After a successful launch into the commercial sector, VELUX Modular Skylights are also now available to the domestic market, offering the perfect way to open up large rooms in your home and create a light, bright and spacious living environment. Elegant design, outstanding energy performance and helping to create a better indoor climate are among the main attractions for the home owner. Benefits, at a glance, include:• Full functionality • Perfect system fit • Easy installation • A light and fulfilling design

VELUX Company Ltd, Unit 1, Willsborough Cluster, Willsborough Ind Est, Clonshaugh, Dublin 17. T: 01592 778916 - E: vms@velux.co.uk www.modularskylights.velux.co.uk

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Washroom Systems HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

THE Holy Cross project is a perfect reflection of the benefits offered by JP Corry’s Contracts Manager, Gary Henderson…

Eternal success for JP Corry

t the Houben Centre JP Corry supplied washrooms, cubicles, IPS panelling, vanity units and adult and infant rooms – all from the company’s Eternal range. The Eternal range is a robust, semi-framed system suitable for use in heavy duty areas such as schools, hospitals, leisure centres, fitness suites, night clubs and other public areas. It is ideally suited to areas where humidity and water are present, and where strength and durability are required. All these benefits made it the perfect fit for this project for the Holy Cross Ardoyne Trust and, according to Gary Henderson, JP Corry’s Contracts Manager for Washroom Systems, it is a great example of the company’s work in this sector. Gary is based at JP Corry’s Belfast branch at Springfield Road and he enjoys the daily challenges of his role.

“I work for a unique part of the business where we design, manufacture and install toilet cubicles, vanity units, wall panelling and classroom furniture,” he explained. “My job involves promoting our range of washroom products to specifiers and contractors and ensuring we deliver a quality system on time and to the highest standard. “This brings a wide diversity of benefits for our customers. We offer many ranges of toilet cubicles suitable for different usages, and I can recommend a washroom system that is best suited for their project and their budget. We offer all our ranges in a vast selection of colours and our systems are suitable for use in dry or wet areas.” Offering these advantages makes for a more enjoyable job, as Gary explained. “I enjoy seeing a project which I have been involved in from design stage with architect, to on-site completion with the contractor. I

Gary Henderson contracts manager for Washrooms systems.

also enjoy seeing the benefit our system has for the end-user, should it be our washroom range in a new school to our range of lockers in a gymnasium or our range of fitted furniture in a hospital.” For specialist advice on JP Corry’s Washroom Systems, contact Gary Henderson on 07714 662241 or email: gary.henderson@jpcorry.co.uk

Head Office: JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH. T: 028 9024 3661 www.jpcorry.com 18 BRANCHES ACROSS IRELAND

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Electrical Contractor HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

DEMANDING PROJECT PROVES NO BARRIER TO ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SPECIALISTS...

JD McGeown - Electrical excellence

D McGeown was appointed as the electrical contractor on the Houben Centre, working to the main contractor, P&K McKaigue “We started nine months ago, with a handover that was on time and within budget in September,” said JD McGeown’s Contracts Director, Billy Gray, who oversaw this major refurbishment. The electrical works undertaken to bring this building into the 21st Century and in line with statutory requirements were very substantial and included main and sub-main distribution, general internal lighting installation and stage lighting. Other installations involved general purpose and fixed power, satellite/TV aerial, disabled toilet call, disabled refuge alarm and intruder alarm, along with induction loop systems, audio loop systems, earthing and bonding. “Our work was demanding and required the installation of many specialist items such as the lift, access control, fire and security alarm system, underfloor heating, mechanical ventilation and computer network system,” said Billy. “However, we were proud to be associated with this project. The electrical

installation has contributed to a major transformation and the creation of what is now a landmark building on the Crumlin Road.” The electrical works have allowed the building to be utilised as a really flexible community hub with three multipurpose halls, one of which offers stage lighting as well as audio/video systems. The data and telecommunications systems that were installed, help improve the functionality of the building, while the lift, access control and door entry system meet all the statutory requirements of a modern building. To complete the contract, JD McGeown installed a CCTV system, together with intruder alarms, fire alarms and emergency lighting. “The main challenge presented by this project was the need to be mindful of the heritage of the project while securing a highly functional building fit for multiuse,” said Billy. “We worked in partnership with the main contractor, the consulting engineer and the client to sympathetically refurbish this listed building, restoring it for community use.”

EXPANSION JD McGeown Ltd has been providing engineering solutions since its inception in 1961. During this time, the company has expanded to become one of Northern Irelands leading electrical engineering specialists and facilities management contractors, with experience in managing expansive projects across all industry sectors. “Many of these projects and clients have enjoyed the simplicity, ease of management and cost efficiencies that can be made by having a single, specialised contractor who can fulfil and deliver end to end solutions to their requirements,” said Billy. “Our company strives towards providing innovative solutions that can drive down costs at the time of installation and provision of an on-going fully integrated facilities management service. We also ensure that our solutions provide significant Opex reductions for the years ahead.” The company’s head office is based in Belfast, with additional offices in Campsie and Dublin which allows JD McGeown to provide an unrivalled service to all clients.

JD McGeown Ltd, Windsor Business Park, 16/18 Lower Windsor Avenue, Belfast, BT9 7DW T: 028 9068 1176 - E: info@jdmcg.co.uk www.jdmcg.co.uk

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Joinery HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

WITH EXPERTISE IN ROOF RESTORATION AND REPLACEMENT PROJECTS, DOMINIC MCCLOSKEY AND HIS TEAM WERE WELL PLACED TO WORK ON THE HOUBEN CENTRE PROJECT…

Ballycraig Joinery rises to the challenge

ith significant experience in restoration works, as well as new build properties, and a keen interest in conservation projects and working with reclaimed materials, Ballycraig Joinery Contracts was appointed by P&K McKaigue to complete the Houben Centre joinery works. The job entailed a complete roof restoration as well as the roof construction for a new extension, and Ballycraig Joinery was responsible for the internal joinery fit out. “Roofs are one of the most important elements of any building - they are also a very important visual element,” said Dominic McCloskey, who has over 16 years’ industry experience and established his own business in 2004, offering a full joinery package from roof works to internal joinery fixtures and fittings. “The Houben Centre is a substantial building, full of character, and the emphasis was on maintaining the original features,” continued Dominic. “For the roof, this included a Chinese style dormer, lead dormer cowls, both Bangor Blue and Westmorland slates,

and a decorative clay ridge as well as lead ridge.” Initially, the existing roof coverings had to be stripped, preserving the Bangor Blue and Green Westmoreland slates and removing for reuse. An assessment of the existing roof structure was made, including the rafters and purlins, and there was a significant focus on maintaining as much of the existing structures and materials as possible, in line with usual conservation project protocols. “We identified significant weaknesses in the rafters as a result of timber decay, and sections of the roof were partially collapsed,” explained Dominic. “This presented us with a significant challenge in terms of stabilising the roof to assess the damage, as well as restoring and repairing it.” The restoration work on the existing rafters included timber treatment and ‘splicing’, whereby sections of an existing rafter had to be removed due to decay, and replaced with new timber. Also, new rafters had to be inserted to ensure structural soundness. This all

required particular expertise to ensure that the new rafters were appropriately integrated in the overall roof structure. “Completing the slating of the roof was also challenging as we had to re-use the old slates,” continued Dominic. “A proportion of these were unusable, due to cracks and such like and, coupled with the new extension, this meant that there was a shortage in the supply of slates.” Because of the expense of purchasing more Bangor Blues, the architect came up with a practical solution to the problem, using Spanish slates of similar colour and quality for the internal roof covering (an area not seen by public). “No two jobs and no two days are the same, especially with restoration work,” said Dominic. “This was one of the biggest we have worked on and it took a long time to complete because so much of the building was in a bad state of repair. However, restoration work is one of our key specialisms and all the internal joinery works were completed to a high standard, and in line with commercial needs.”

Ballycraig Joinery Contracts, Ballyknock Road, Maghera, BT46 5PH T: 07786 624 988 E: dominicmccloskey@hotmail.co.uk

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Paving HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

The road to success with PB Paving

ith a well-deserved reputation for quality workmanship and service, PB Paving enjoys steady business through word of mouth referral, and longstanding relationships with many prominent contractors. “We have only recently started working with PK McKaigue’s (the main contractor), but we hope to join them on a lot more projects in the future,” said Paul Boone, who set up his Draperstown paving business in 1999. “We have found McKaigue’s to be 100% reliable to work with, and the paving job we carried out at the Houben Centre went smoothly and without a hitch, as did the previous job we did for them at the Garden of Reflection in Derry-Londonderry.” At the Houben Centre, PB Paving laid all the

brick paving and associated work, including steps and ramps for wheelchair access, as well as parking bays. The company is much in demand for its services across Ireland, England and Scotland, with jobs large and small. “We work a lot with natural stone and have been involved in many prestigious projects here in Northern Ireland, such as Belfast Harbour and Warrenpoint Harbour,” continued Paul. “My son Mark works in business too and is currently in the Republic of Ireland working on a big project for the Irish Tourist Board. They are having signage put up at 192 different locations, from Greencastle in Donegal to Cork, and Mark is following on, doing the paving around each sign.”

PB Paving, 29 Coolnasillagh Lane, Draperstown, BT45 7EH T: 028 7962 7176 - Paul: 0780 3892559 - Mark: 0770 6231749 E: paul.boone@btinternet.com

Ground Works HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

Scullion Contracts prepares the ground for new community centre

oomebridge-based company, Scullion Contracts Ltd a Civil Engineering Contractor, carried out all groundworks for the Houben Centre renovation. Brian Scullion, a civil engineer who established the business back in 2007, explained, “We’ve worked for the main contractor, P&K McKaigue, on a number of occasions before and were delighted when we were approached to work on this latest project.” “This job had its own small challenges, and the lack of working space meant we had to work solely on one phase at a time so that other contractors could continue with their work. “A system was established which suited everyone and helped get the project started and finished on schedule.”

The work at the Houben Centre is reflective of the high standards consistently delivered by Scullion Contracts. “We pride ourselves on being a small business which can offer a top quality, personal and expert service, which includes contract management,” said Brian. “We also carry out Environmental Improvement schemes and have just recently completed Phase 1 of the Dungannon Public Realm. Other similar projects have included the Ravenhill Gateway, Andersonstown Road and Stewartstown Road in Belfast. “It was a privilege to work on this contract and we are very proud to have contributed to it.”

Scullion Contracts Limited, Civil Engineering Contractors, 114c Deerpark Road, Toomebridge, Co. Antrim BT41 3SS T: 07968 607887 - E: scullioncontracts@hotmail.co.uk F: www.facebook.com/scullioncontracts1

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Flooring HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

Sustainable solutions from Commercial & Industrial Flooring

ffering a wide range of carpets, vinyl, tiles and safety flooring, Commercial & Industrial Flooring supplied all the flooring requirements at the newly renovated Houben Centre. “We supplied all the timber flooring, carpet tiles and vinyl flooring,” said Director, Jim Weir, who, along with Co-Director, Raymond Harris, set up the business in 1985. New foundations and subfloors had to be installed before the team at Commercial & Industrial Flooring could get to work, but the result has been well worth the effort. “It’s a prestigious old building and we were able to supply the appropriate flooring for its new use as a community hub,” said Jim.

“The timber engineered floor was by Kährs. It is a layered floor which offers good energy absorption, and is an excellent choice for the new Houben Centre. “We also laid carpet tiles by Burmatex throughout the building and two types of vinyl flooring from Polyflor - Polysafe Verona and Polysafe Standard - both of which combine the assurance of sustainable slip resistance with high durability for years of performance.” Striving to provide the best materials for the job at hand, Commercial & Industrial Flooring offers a wide range of flooring options, from anti-static flooring for shops and halls to safety flooring for protecting staff.

Commercial & Industrial Flooring, 10 Sanda Rd, Newtownabbey, BT37 9UB T: 028 9085 1421 – E: jim@comindflo.co.uk www.commercialandindustrialflooring.co.uk

Wrought Ironwork HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

Specialist job by M&M Engineering

ith its recognised expertise in wrought ironwork, M&M Engineering was the ideal company to entrust to the job of replacing and refurbishing the intricate gates, gate posts and railings at the Houben Centre. The company was established by husband and wife team, Martin and Martina McLernon, over 30 years ago, with the company having gained valuable experience in manufacturing and metalcraft during this time. They also employ timeserved craftsmen, coupling traditional blacksmithing skills with advanced modern technology to create quality pieces of wrought ironwork. “At the Houben Centre we were responsible for all the iron gates and external railings

around the steps, car park and statues, “Where we could, we refurbished some of the original ironwork but a lot of it needed to be newly hand-crafted, including the ornamental rails around the front and back of the hub, which we replicated to look like the original. A brand new set of main gates were also manufactured, again to replicate the original gates, which were extended from three meters wide to seven metres.” said Martin. “It’s a very specialist job, which we have been doing for almost 27 years, and conservation services is a growing area for us.” M&M Engineering manufactures and fits a vast range of top quality wrought iron and stainless steel products, both traditional and modern design.

M&M Engineering Services, 204 Staffordstown Road, Toomebridge, Antrim, BT41 3NY T: 028 7965 0023 – E: martinmclernon100@gmail.com www.gates-ni.co.uk

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Safety Surfacing HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

Safety at play

ompleting the facilities at the new Houben community centre is some outdoor safety surfacing by Allplay Ireland Ltd. “We supplied and installed 115m² of Green Wetpour Safety Surfacing outside the crèche area, providing children with a safe and clean place to play outside,” said Brian McKee. An established, dynamic company based in Ballynahinch, Allplay has been designing and installing playgrounds since 1996 and has built up an experienced team of experts, supplying innovative play spaces throughout Ireland and the UK. “The brief for the Houben Centre was quite simple and easy to deliver, but whatever the size or requirements of each project, our experienced playground designers and

consultants work closely with clients to fully understand their needs,” explained Brian. “This focused approach ensures that ageappropriate play needs are catered for, and that the proposed play area is innovative, physically challenging, educational and mentally stimulating.” The process includes a site visit and fact finding meeting, production of concept drawings, final design and supply of quotation. In most cases this process is completely free of charge and the designers will continue to work with the client to get things just right. “Our skilled contracts team ensure all projects are managed and installed to the highest quality ensuring compliance with British and European standards,” said Brian.

12 Crabtree Rd, Ballynahinch BT24 8RH 028 9756 5129 – E: info@all-play.com www.all-play.com

Joinery HOUBEN CENTRE, ARDOYNE, BELFAST

Bespoke service from Mastercraft Construction

uring the restoration of the former Holy Cross Boys’ School building, Mastercraft Construction was appointed the task of refurbishing and refitting both the timber sliding sash windows and metal sash windows. Refurbishment work also included the two roof Cupolas and the timber decorative vents. “The original sliding sash timber windows had been damaged by fire or, in some cases, had deteriorated from age and weathering. The restoration involved removing the damaged sections of the windows, carefully remaking them to the same design or moulds which ensured they matched the originals and fitted seamlessly” explained Contracts Manager, Micheál O’Kane. “The main contractor, P&K McKaigue, awarded us the contract based on our

Glenshane Enterprise Centre, Ballyquin Road, Dungiven, BT47 4NQ T: 028 7774 2828 – E: mcc@mastercraftconstruction.com www.mastercraftconstruction.com

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specialised knowledge and unique skillset in conservation work. As these windows were of a considerable age, we utilised our skills to provide a bespoke service for the manufacture and replacement of elements for each window, cupola and vent.” The wide range of work carried out by Mastercraft Construction includes all aspects of specialist joinery, roofing, formwork, residential developments and office fit-outs. The company has been involved with awardwinning projects such as the Lyric Theatre and the Giant’s Causeway Visitors’ Centre, which were both shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2012 and 2013 respectively. In 2014 the company provided the joinery and concrete frame services for the Everyman Theatre, Liverpool which won this prestigious award.

Mastercraft

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High praise at St Patrick’s An attention to detail and a dedication to deliver are both demonstrated during the beautiful restoration of St Patrick’s Church in Donaghmore… g

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Main Contractor ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

Passion and pride from QMAC Construction

Hometown restoration project sets wideranging challenges for Donaghmore construction company…

very heritage project exudes history, but few can claim a direct connection to the introduction of Christianity in Ireland. That brought an obvious pressure for QMAC Construction during the restoration of St Patrick’s Church in Donaghmore – and it was further enhanced by the fact that the company is based just outside the village. St Patrick brought the Christian faith to the Donaghmore area around 450AD and it later became a monastic centre, as evidenced by the ancient High Cross in the village. It remained an important centre of Christianity, with work on the present St Patrick’s Church completed in 1846, just as the Famine was beginning. Various works have been carried out in the intervening years but this major restoration project, led by QMAC Construction, is one of the biggest undertakings. The result

“The result is breathtaking, with QMAC’s painstaking attention to detail evidenced throughout.” 62 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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is breathtaking, with QMAC’s painstaking attention to detail evidenced throughout. Peter Quinn, Director of QMAC Construction, said, “We always strive to meet the highest possible standards and we are pleased with the way the team worked together to deliver an exceptional project at St Patrick’s Church.” As Sean Mullen, Contracts Manager explained, the project tested the company’s skills to the limit. “Like all heritage projects, you are not really sure of what surprises you are going to face until you really get into it, and St Patrick’s wasn’t any different. “As part of the conservation process, the retention of structural elements within the building was a priority and, such was the extent of our work, that these are the only original elements of the building that remain. However, even these have been extensively restored and repaired.” One of the major aspects of the work undertaken was the roof, which had been badly damaged by a bomb in the village during the Troubles. “The bomb had lifted the whole roof up and set it off position, so we had to get it all realigned,” added Sean. “As well as repairing the existing trusses, beams and wall plates, we installed 10 new queen

post trusses and replaced all the rafters. This involved a lot of temporary works, including indoor scaffolding.” In addition to the roof, QMAC was also tasked with providing a solution to some of the additions that had been made to the rear of the church. Sean added, “We had to demolish the sacristy, which was not in keeping with the rest of the building, and the decision was taken that it would be easier to remove it completely and start again, rather than patch up what was already there.” This work included having to pile the foundations and involved moving the oil tank, which had actually been installed under the altar, to a newly constructed plant room to the rear of the building. The new plant room is the hub for a completely new heating system that incorporates trench heating in the main body of the church. Internally, the flooring was completely renewed using ornate tiles and white oak. New pews have also been installed throughout the main body of the church and the gallery, where a newly restored organ is situated. Despite all the new aspects to the church, QMAC has been able to retain the quintessential heritage of the building.

All the stained glass windows have been restored, including the main feature windows above the reredos and the two side windows in the sanctuary area which were originally made by Mayer of Munich in 1895. The stencil work on other ceiling panels reflects the colours in the aisle tiles which are a reproduction of an 1870’s stencilling inspired by designs discovered in a Dublin church. The Stations of the Cross originally came from a church in Belgium and have been repainted and repaired in contemporary colours. The High Cross has also been reproduced in beautiful carvings on the front doors while, during the renovation work, two headstones were unearthed and re-erected, one on each side of the church entrance. Yet despite the use of traditional methods and materials, the building also boasts modern technology, including a stateof-the-art AV system, new lighting and CCTV, all of which have been sensitively integrated into the traditional design of the church. From the new lease of life given to the external stonework to the ornate beauty of the altar, QMAC Construction has considered every minute detail to create a restoration project to be proud of.

QMAC Construction, Coolmaghery, 156 Pomeroy Road, Dungannon, BT70 2TY T: 028 877 67088 – E: info@qmacconstruction.com www.qmacconstruction.com

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Stonework ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

Seamless stonework restoration and repair from Kilkeel-based experts brings church back to its original glory…

Care and attention from S.McConnell & Sons

s stone specialists, the team from S.McConnell & Sons didn’t have too far to look to find inspiration when working at St Patrick’s Church in Donaghmore. Located just across the road from the church is the Donaghmore High Cross, which is one of Ulster’s earliest Christian monuments. The intricate designs from the monument were the inspiration for engravings in the new church doors but for S.McConnell & Sons, the challenge was to breathe new life into the stonework in the church that made it worthy of its place beside a High Cross that has stood the test of time since it was erected in the 10th Century. Extensive work was carried out in both the interior and exterior of the building, including the stringcourses, quoins, plinths and windows as well as the spire, copings around the roof and the

pinnacles. Internally, the company’s team of specialists were set a unique challenge, as Paul Morris, Contracts Manager at S.McConnell & Sons, explained. “A lot of the marble in the Sanctuary area was from reclaimed materials and used to create a new High Altar, the Reredos, the Ambo and some of the side tables. “It was intricate and detailed and we worked very closely with Martin Nugent from architects McKeown and Shields on this aspect to ensure we matched the overall design theme of the building.” Externally, while the stone was in relatively good condition, it still was a long way off how it looked when the church was completed in 1846. The repair and restoration work remained sympathetic to the original building, with any repairs seamlessly integrating into the original building.

The quality of the work carried out by S.McConnell & Sons is highlighted on the pinnacles which were badly damaged. The company had to carefully remove some of the pinnacles and transport to the company’s Kilkeel headquarters where a team carefully repaired and restored them before they were erected once again on the church. Paul added, “It can be easier to do a complete replacement as repair and restoration offers more of a challenge, but it is this aspect of the job that we enjoy,” he said. “Our aim is to revitalise the stonework and to make repairs that seamlessly match with the original stonework – all of which requires patience, care and attention. “St Patrick’s Church is a beautiful church with such distinctive stonework. We are delighted that we have been able to do it justice and bring it back to life.”

S.McConnell & Sons, 184 Carrigenagh Road, Kilkeel, BT34 4QA T: 028 4176 3717 – E: info@smcconnellandsons.com www.smcconnellandsons.com

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Architectural Consultant ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

Architectural consultants create a strong vision for St Patrick’s Church that delivers a breath taking attention to detail…

Planned to perfection by McKeown and Shields

he thought, planning and vision of McKeown and Shields are there for all to see when they walk into St Patrick’s Church in Donaghmore. From the intricacy of the floor tiling to the subtlety of the lighting, the Coalisland-based architectural and civil engineering consultancy has put its renowned attention to detail into every aspect of this restoration project. Ecclesiastical work is a highly specialist field and at St Patrick’s Church, McKeown and Shields put all of the company’s experience in this sector to good use. “From the outset, this was a conservation project with every opportunity taken to restore and repair the historical elements of the building,” explained Con McKeown, Project Architect and one of the company founders. “There is a lot of complex detail throughout the church, so our role focused on ensuring that all these aspects seamlessly merged and that there was a consistent theme throughout.” The company thrives on working in partnership with others, including the experience of many of the specialist sub-contractors.

“We are all working in the same direction so we feel that it is vital to the success of a project that you consult and work with others. This is evident throughout this project, as we consulted closely on everything from the tiles and painting, to the plaster mouldings and seating.” At St Patrick’s Church it really was a case of working from the ground up. Such is the intricacy of the tile design that McKeown and Shields used this as the theme for the project. “The detail in the tiling is significant so we used this as our colour palette for the whole scheme. This set the tone for the rest of the building” added Con. “We put the same focus into the plaster mouldings and also the lighting. In particular, we wanted the pendant lighting to complement the aesthetics and to also subtly highlight various aspects of the altar and the sanctuary area. “All the original leaded and coloured glass in the church windows, excluding the sanctuary area, were retained and set into new timber frames. The same leaded and coloured glass design was repeated in the new windows through the extended areas to provide

continuity.” With a vision for the entire project – as opposed to the specific areas the subcontractors were focusing on – McKeown and Shields displayed the time and patience needed to deliver on the detail while also keeping the project moving forward. The consultation process didn’t just involve the specialist sub-contractors, but also included working with Parish Priest, Father Gerard McAleer, and, main contractor, QMAC Construction. “Father McAleer was very influential throughout the project and had a very distinctive view of what he wanted to see. That helped us a great deal,” added Con. “We also enjoyed a superb working relationship with QMAC Construction and developed a strong partnership with them. “With QMAC being based within the Parish along with the influence of Father McAleer and also our own Project Co-ordinator, Martin Nugent, who is also a parishioner at St Patrick’s Church, there was a real commitment about the project that we hope is displayed in the final finish.”

McKeown and Shields, 1 Annagher Road, Coalisland, County Tyrone T: 028 8774 0746 - F: 028 8774 7475 - E: info@mckeownandshields.com www.mckeownandshields.com

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Quantity Surveyor ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

Professional and reliable service from MJ McCaughey

“It wasn’t your average type of job, but we are well experienced in this area, having worked on a growing number of ecclesiastical projects in recent years,” continued Michael. “The project required specialist services, for example, the particular lime plaster that was needed, and for the restoration of the stained glass and marble work. With our experience and knowledge, we were able to bring in the right people for the job.” This wealth of experience and professional approach mean that Michael and his staff can provide a comprehensive range of services to a wide range of clients on various types of projects - domestic, industrial, commercial, sports, religious and educational.

J McCaughey Ltd carried out a full quantity surveying service for the renovation project on St Patrick’s Church, and also acted as CDM co-ordinator for health and safety. “Because the building was 170 years old, it was quite an involved scheme,” said Director, Michael McCaughey. “Much of the building had to be stripped back to the bare structure, and external stonework had to be replaced or cleaned and repointed. Parts that had been more recently repaired had to be fixed, where defective, and the new extensions needed to blend in with the original building. A new roof was also required.

MJ McCaughey Ltd, 15 Sloan Street, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, BT70 1BZ T: 028 8772 7270 - E: info@mjmccaughey.com www.mjmccaughey.com

Seating ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

ICS leads the way in church furniture

he beautiful seating in the main body of St Patrick’s Church, Donaghmore, and the gallery, along with the Presider’s chair, side chairs and tables, are testament to the exceptionally high standards of craftsmanship by Irish Contract Seating. Indeed, such is the esteem in which the company’s work is held, that Irish Contract Seating was commissioned to create the candelabra for St Patrick’s Cathedral in New York, in preparation for a recent visit by Pope Francis. “As a specialist church furniture manufacturer, we have worked on over 2,800 church projects in the last 43 years,” said Managing Director, Gavin Duignan. “For St Patrick’s Church in Donaghmore, we took our inspiration from gothic design and quatrefoil details to reflect

the architectural nature of the building. “Some of our most recent restoration projects have included seating for St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford and the basilica at Our Lady’s Shrine in Knock,” he continued. “That was how we got the New York job.” With significant investment in the latest computerised technology, coupled with a highly skilled and motivated workforce, ICS is capable of crafting the highest quality furniture to blend with both historic and contemporary buildings.

ICS is capable of crafting the highest quality furniture to blend with both historic and contemporary buildings.

ICS Furniture, Dromod, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim T: 00353 71 963 8230 - E: info@icsfurniture.com www.icsfurniture.com

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Tile Supplier ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

Marble and tile specialist provides a tailored design to create a stunning finish at St Patrick’s Church…

Intricate detail from Armatile

he beautifully intricate tiling at St Patrick’s Church in Donaghmore was provided by the marble and tile specialists at Armatile. Displaying Armatile’s attention to detail, the company worked closely with architect, McKeown and Shields, and interior design expert, Eamonn Carberry, to choose suitable colours and materials for this project. The steps and altar floor are created from a beautiful Crema Marfil marble hand-selected from quarries in the Alicante region of Spain, an area world renowned for its quality natural stone. An additional strip of black marble has been inserted into the steps for visual impact. Armatile designed and created nine special features to be installed on the first step of the altar. The decorative features were manufactured in Armatile’s custom-built factory in Armagh, using modern waterjet cutting technology to meet an exact specification. Rich Italian White Carrara marble slabs

were chosen for the central piece of each design. These were then surrounded by a bespoke, striking border, depicting vines and leaves, incorporating beautiful warm tones of Sienna, Rojo Alicante and Alpi Verdi marbles. The new floor in the nave of the church is created in a stunning Victorian style that was designed utilising red and green colours in a geometric pattern on a white background. Within the Victorian floor pattern are a further six intricately-designed features which were all expertly created in Armatile by combining marble, porcelain and brass materials. One of these features has been specifically designed to replicate the breastplate of St Patrick, while another commemorates the martyrdom of Fr Patrick O’Loughran in 1612. With such a high degree of detail put into the design aspect of this project, the next stage was to ensure that, firstly, the new surfaces were manufactured perfectly, and

then the installation process ran smoothly. Peter Rafferty, Contracts Manager with Armatile, outlined how they met the requirements of the marble and tiling work carried out on the steps, sanctuary floor and nave of this wonderful restoration project. He explained, “Our expert team used waterjet technology operating at 55,000 psi to cut and etch each intricate piece. The complex pattern was then laid out piece by piece in the company’s design studio and carefully hand assembled before it was mounted on mesh sheets to ease installation on site. “Our experienced team of craftsmen then laid the entire floor, with a careful eye and appreciation for detail required for such a prestigious restoration project.” Peter added, “This is a great example of how we work in partnership to meet the exacting needs of each project and provide a tailored solution. We work extensively on church projects and enjoy the challenges they offer.”

Armatile, Loughgall Road, Armagh, BT61 7NP T: 028 3752 7007 www.armatile.com

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Specialist Painting ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

Decorative touch from Knox & Knox

he beautifully stencilled ceilings at St Patrick’s Church are a source of great pride, with heavenly raised eyes drawn in admiration to the intricate artwork. The stencilling was carried out by Dublinbased Knox & Knox, a specialist painting company with long experience in handpainted stencils, restoration, gilding, murals, furniture painting and faux finishes, such as graining and marbling. “At St Patrick’s, the design was new, but was based on an original 19th Century design that we adapted from a job that we had done on a church in Dublin,” explained Don Knox, who has been a specialist painter and artist for over 30 years.

Don is joined in the business by his son, Robin, who has brought his experience in furniture painting and gilding to the partnership. As restorers, the pair have worked on some of Ireland’s most important buildings. In the Republic of Ireland, these have included Dublin Castle, Trinity College, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin, and The K Club. As word of their expertise has spread, the talented father and son have also worked on prestigious projects in Northern Ireland, such as the magnificent ceiling for the council chamber in the Guildhall, Derry-Londonderry, and the restoration of St Peter’s Church in Lurgan, while further afield, their work can be seen at the Dorchester Hotel in London.

Knox & Knox, The Art and Gilding Studio, Longwood Lane, Longwood Avenue, Dublin 8 T: 00353 8726 00832 - E: don@knoxandknox.ie www.knoxandknox.ie

Ornamental Plastering ST. PATRICK’S CHURCH, DONAGHMORE

John Lynch finds restoration work rewarding

hen plaster moulding craftsman, John Lynch was asked to create all the decorative moulding at St Patrick’s Church, he didn’t quite anticipate that the job would go on as long as it did. “There had been very little decorative moulding in the church before, so I worked closely with the architect on the requirements for the refurbishment,” said John. “As the restoration progressed there always seemed to be something more to do, but I didn’t mind. I do lot of restoration work on churches and this one was particularly rewarding. Maybe it will help ensure my pathway to heaven when the time comes,” he joked. John’s work at St Patrick’s included all

the cornicing and panel moulding on the ceilings; plaster bead on the windows; the rebuilding of two side altars and lots of different decorative moulding beneath the balcony. He also created the beautiful angel heads and other figures on the front porch ceiling and carried out some repairs to the Stations of the Cross which came from a church in Belgium. Through his company, Derg Ornamental Plaster Moulding, John and his team provide a specialist expert service, which includes design and fitting. They have an extensive range of mouldings (plaster and concrete) for both internal and external use and offer a bespoke design mould service when required.

Derg Ornamental Plaster Mouldings, 43 Young Crescent, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 5BZ T: 028 8167 9225 ater (7pm) – M: 07742 227270 E: tarlynch43@aol.com

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Project Overview No. 10 Victoria Street, ballymoney

Ballymoney town regeneration continues

JA GAMBLE & CO SUPPORT TOWN REGENERATION BY BREATHING LIFE INTO OLD BUILDING…

he latest restoration of retail premises in Victoria Street, Ballymoney, has further helped in the regeneration of once neglected areas of the town. Number 10 Victoria Street formerly comprised a jeweller’s shop on the ground floor with two residential flats upstairs. The flats had lain derelict for the past eight years, while the jeweller’s business had more recently vacated the premises to move elsewhere in town, thanks to a similar refurbishment project. Both schemes were brought to fruition with part funding by the Ballymoney Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), following an award of £1.29million from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This funding, combined with matched funding from the Department for Social Development (DSD), helped enable the

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building to be brought back to life in readiness for commercial and residential use again, whilst retaining its historic character and reinstating many architectural features. The main contractor, JA Gamble & Co Ltd, worked with a number of specialist subcontractors to restore the old building, and despite a few unforeseen pitfalls, managed to complete the project on schedule. “While not actually a listed building, it was one of significant historical interest and required a sympathetic refurbishment,” explained Richard Gamble, Director of JA Gamble & Co Ltd. “It has been done with a similar purpose in mind – the ground floor premises of the newly restored building have a fresh new look, with good potential as a versatile retail space or professional office and have already attracted interest from potential tenants. The first floor has also been transformed. It still provides two residential premises, but they are now more modern, well fitted out apartments. “The building work was done using traditional materials and methods, where

possible, and we appointed specialist subcontractors to carry out many aspects of the restoration,” said Richard. In fact, the team working on Number 10 was the same as the one which restored another building in Main Street, which is now occupied by the jeweller who moved there from Number 10. The only difference to the team was that it was headed up by JA Gamble this time.

EXCELLENT “We do quite a bit of restoration work and have worked with a lot of the specialist subcontractors before. We enjoy good working relationships with them all and know they can be relied upon to do an excellent job,” continued Richard. Restoring older buildings often throws up unforeseen challenges and this particular project was no exception. “When we were refurbishing the top floor we discovered there was a risk that the whole building would collapse, due to its age and condition,” said Richard. “We had to demolish the building back to first floor level and rebuild it from there, with exactly

the same look but with much stronger construction. This also meant that we had to build a completely new roof too. “In the end it actually didn’t affect our schedule too much as it allowed us to progress more quickly in other ways,” he continued. “We retained all the internal features, such as the historic coving, plaster moulding roses and decorative stained glass in the entrance lobby to the apartments, and even managed to keep the existing staircase, even though we demolished everything around it.” Although Number 10 wasn’t a listed building, it was defined as one of historical interest, and because of this, and also the terms under the funding, the contractor had very tight guidelines on what materials could – or couldn’t - be used. “There was definitely no MDF used in the project,” laughed Richard. “The project went very well,” he concluded. “We enjoyed a good working relationship with the architect, ATP Architects Ltd, the client and the funders, and it was very successful.”

JA Gamble & Co Ltd, Brickfield, 38 Park Road, Strabane, BT82 8LH T: 028 7138 2385 E: info@jagamble.co.uk

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Architect No. 10 Victoria Street, ballymoney

Ballymoney brilliance by ATP Architects

ollowing on from work on No.2 Main Street Ballymoney, ATP Architects has given a new lease of life to another property in the town with the opening of the refurbished 10 Victoria Street. “The bottom floor was a former jewellers while the top floors were flats, although they were condemned and really bad condition,” explained Alan Ross, Director at ATP Architects. “We used our experience on the previous Ballymoney regeneration project to ensure the building was in keeping with the architectural tone of the town and we are delighted with the result.” While not Listed, the building is of ‘historical importance’, meaning that ATP Architects had to try and be as sympathetic as possible to the

original. With a brief to convert the shop area into a blank canvas for potential tenants and convert the top floors from one flat into two, ATP Architects faced some difficult challenges. “In effect we treated this as a Listed building but that required a lot of negotiation with various statutory agencies who wanted modern techniques used to, for example, improve the energy efficiency,” added Alan. “The planners and Building Control were happy to work with us to find a solution that kept everyone happy and I think the end result speaks volumes about this positive approach. “While we adopted a flexible approach to the ground floor to make it as attractive as possible to potential tenants, this proved harder than having a specific tenant in mind.”

ATP Architects, 18 Ballyhackett Road, Castlerock, BT51 4SQ T: 028 7034 2713 – M: 0783 472 8932 www.atparchitects.com

Decorative Plasterwork No. 10 Victoria Street, ballymoney

Decorative touch from Manor Mouldings

s a building of historical interest, it was important to retain the character of the original internal features, so when it came to replacing the decorative mouldings, the contractor turned to specialist company, Manor Mouldings. Known for the high quality of its bespoke work, and with a reputation as a leading provider of traditional interior plaster mouldings, the company proved the ideal choice, making a superb job of recreating the decorative cornice and ceiling rose features that add a stylish touch to newly refurbished building. Manor Mouldings (NI) Ltd has been trading since 1985 and supplies both external and internal mouldings to the hospitality industry and residential developments across the island

of Ireland. These mouldings come in many different sizes, shapes and styles (including decorative and plain cornices, panel moulds and ceiling roses) and are suitable for the domestic and commercial market. “Our bespoke products are a great addition to any building, giving it a unique look and a stylish finish,” said Director, Gerard Doherty. “Our work is individually tailored so that we can create products to any specification, depending on the client’s requirements.” The services provided by Manor Mouldings include installation of all internal mouldings and refurbishment of existing moulded plasterwork and lime-based mouldings. Gerard can also produce mouldings to match existing plasterwork, as well as bespoke mouldings.

Manor Mouldings Ltd, 29 Kildoag Road, Killaloo, Derry-Londonderry, BT47 3TQ T: 028 7134 5103 – E: sales@manormouldings.com www.manormouldings.com

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Joinery No. 10 Victoria Street, ballymoney

Bespoke joinery service from Newbridge Joinery Ltd

s 10 Victoria Street was a building of historical interest, the joinery entailed in the restoration work required a bespoke approach to maintain the integrity of the old building. With a well-respected reputation in this area of expertise, Newbridge Joinery manufactured the entrance doors and specially made sliding sash windows. “Because of the nature of the building, the sliding sash windows had to be hand putty glazed,” explained Sean McVey, Technical Sales Manager. “Our sliding sash windows combine the elegance and aesthetics of traditional sash windows with modern ‘u’ values, sealing and security, and can be manufactured as both traditional weights

and pulleys or spiral balances.” The team from Newbridge Joinery also manufactured the shop front and internal vestibule screen. “The whole job involved a lot of bespoke joinery, but with over 25 years’ experience, and a lot of that with listed buildings, we were confident we could deliver a top class job for the contractor,” said Sean. “We do quite a bit of work with JA Gamble and were delighted to be asked to join them on this project too.” Based in Toomebridge, Newbridge Joinery offers an experienced and personal joinery service, supplying wonderfully crafted, bespoke windows and doors to both domestic and commercial customers throughout Ireland and the UK.

Newbridge Joinery, 171 Aughrim Road, Toomebridge, Antrim, BT41 3SH T: 028 7965 1705 – E: sean.newbridgejoinery@gmail.com www.newbridgejoinery.co.uk

Electrical Contractor No. 10 Victoria Street, ballymoney

Professional service from Hunter Electrics

he electrical installation at 10 Victoria Street was carried out by Castledergbased company, Hunter Electrics. “We rewired the whole building and upgraded all the electrics,” said Director, Winston Hunter. “With the extensive refurbishment that was required on this project, it was like working on a new build, so it was a smooth operation with no unforeseen hitches for our team.” With a wealth of experience in the electrical industry and a large team behind him, Winston is able to take on a wide range of jobs, working on projects right across Northern Ireland, as well as England and the Republic of Ireland. He began his career working for a local building company, carrying out all their

Hunter Electrics Ltd, 16 Lisnacloon Rd, Mournebeg, Castlederg BT81 7UF T: 028 8167 1431 E: hunterelectrics@talk21.com

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electrical work before starting up his own business 25 years ago. Today, Hunter Electrics is a highly successful firm, much in demand for its services and employing around up to 30 staff at times, ranging from young apprentices to fully qualified electricians. “We’re building up quite a team,” admitted Winston, who likes to encourage young talent and help them progress in their chosen career.” Offering a wide range of services, Hunter Electrics carries out everything from standard wiring to fire installations, periodic inspection and portable appliance testing. Its client base is equally comprehensive, encompassing sectors such as residential, industrial, educational and health.

Hunter Electrics Ltd ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

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U tImber frame

The Unitek team – (from left) Gareth Baxter, Senior Designer; Tony Abusow, Design Manager; Marc Lyttle, Director; Andrew Rush, Factory Supervisor; and Karina Lyttle, Director. Tony Abusow, Design Manager.

Heather McCarroll, Sales Manager and John Grant, Business Development Manager.

Design orientated approach delivers fast-track timber frame solutions that focus on energy efficiency and affordability…

Designs on quality homes by Unitek

ngenuity has always been central to Unitek Timber Frame Systems and, as housing starts to make a comeback in Northern Ireland, the company’s evolution is continuing. A series of improvements have been made to the company’s design and production techniques, all of which are aimed at delivering cost-effective housing solutions that utilise the benefits of fast track construction. “The construction industry was hit hard by the recession but we are now seeing house builders coming out of hibernation who are hungry and determined to get back on track,” explained Marc Lyttle, Unitek Director. “However, with the focus on affordable housing, every builder is now looking for a faster construction process and that is where our systems make a difference. “We continually examine and evaluate our own processes and the introduction of new integrated management mechanisms have boosted our production techniques and, more importantly, placed an added emphasis on design.” Using state-of-the-art software, the experienced team at Unitek is able to eradicate problems effectively at the

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design stage. The result of this is fast track construction on site that is faster and more efficient. “This is all about adding value to our service,” explained Marc. “We work closely with the architect, consultant engineer, builder and client to create a partnership approach that is focused on eradicating issues at the design stage and speeding up construction on site. “This is achieved by identifying possible problems at the design stage and finding suitable solutions. In many instances, this creates an improved design that not only takes into consideration the needs of the building contractor but, just as importantly, the practical requirements of the homeowner. “Unitek’s design capacities are endless and very adaptable meaning we are able to provide more sophisticated homes while still making them as cost-effective as possible.” That cost-effective message is a constant with Unitek, and the company’s responsibly sourced timber, sophisticated design techniques and state-of-the-art production capability all combine to make this possible. With a design-driven approach, Unitek’s timber frame solutions allow building

contractors to focus on what they do best – building new homes. As Marc’s sister and fellow Director, Karina Lyttle, explains, Unitek is proud of its forward-thinking reputation. “In this industry you can’t afford to sit still,” she said. “Timber has been used to build homes in the UK since the 16th Century, so it has more than proved its longevity. We have retained the traditional aspects that have made it such a popular product but have combined this with a modern outlook. “With more focus on energy-efficient homes, including the rise in Passive Homes, timber remains the product of choice for house builders who recognise the benefits it offers. Architects are also combining the aesthetic attributes with its practical use, giving them the best of both worlds. “With good design, good products and a partnership approach, we are confident we can deliver affordable, cost-effective and energy efficient homes that meet modern-day demands.” For more information on Unitek Timber Frame Systems, telephone 028 9442 8044 or visit www.unitekltd.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

why build timber frame? sustainable & environmental

TIMBER FRAME CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE LEVELS 6-7 ON THE CODE FOR SUSTAINABLE HOMES

passive solutions

energy efficient

• A precision engineered structure producing high levels of air tightness and highly efficient energy performance. • Strong, durable and flexible build solution designed to meet today’s modern living. • The easily transported and erected in either mainstream or remote locations. • A low carbon emission construction solution contributing the conservation of our environment. • A standard timber frame design can offer greater efficiency than its masonry equivalent and can be easily modified to provide maximum efficiency. • Timber Frame Systems exceed all energy efficiency government regulations, the home owner can save up to 40% on their heating costs. • Timber frame is at the forefront of contributing to the challenge of ‘climate change’ in building, producing a product bound with quality and value for money. • Wastage is minimised keeping the site much tidier and less hazardous. • A timber frame system for a typical domestic dwelling can be assembled and made watertight in four or five days.

For more imformation call our team on

028 9442 8044 or visit www.unitekltd.com Designed by KMP LTD: Tel: 028 9261 2990

LIMITED

manufactured in northern ireland Head Office: 1 Hallstown Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim BT28 2NE. Email: info@unitekltd.com

U INTERNAL PLASTER

JORIS SMET, DIRECTOR, SMET BUILDING PRODUCTS LTD, SHOWS HOW CHOOSING THE RIGHT INTERNAL PLASTER CAN HELP IMPROVE INDOOR COMFORT IN NEW BUILDINGS…

Smooth solution from SMET E uropeans spend at least 90% of their time indoors, and it’s well known that indoor air quality has a major influence on the health, comfort and well-being of building occupants. For example, much has been written about how poor indoor air quality can be linked to Sick Building Syndrome, reduced productivity in offices and impaired learning in schools. We construct buildings ‘primarily as shelter from weather, providing us with security, living space, and privacy, for storage, and to live and work in comfort’. As a result of the regulations for improved energy efficiency in new buildings, as set by The Building Regulations 2010, the growth in Passive House buildings, and increased interest in healthier, more comfortable and ‘greener’ living environments, the variety of ‘breathable’ internal building components such as insulation, render, plaster and paint has grown. The rise and popularity of these type of products help ensure that the critical airtightness (highly desired in the new building) is not hampered by poor water vapour permeability, leading to an unhealthy, or uncomfortable internal environment. Thus, we need more effective solutions in building materials which can help maximise this internal comfort of our new buildings, while promoting ultimate energy efficiency and simultaneously trying to encourage exchange of outside and inside air. And all this has to be done in a sustainable way!

CASEA Klimafeinputz KFP - Breathable Fine Finishing Plaster.

COMPLEMENTING PASSIVE HOUSE It’s widely known that internal wet wall plasters contribute to achieving airtightness. What is less well known is that choosing the right plaster can not only provide airtightness, but can also can play a major role in improving internal environmental comfort by ensuring constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment. Smet Building Products Ltd, the agent for leading German manufacturer, CASEA, has introduced the latest in internal moisture regulating plasters - Casea Casucalc Klima, an internal base coat plaster, and Casea Klimafeinputz KFP, a breathable fine finishing plaster. The Klimafeinputz KFP breathable fine finishing plaster is unique in that, rather than being a pure cement or pure gypsumbased plaster, it combines the properties of gypsum, lime and clay. The product’s

special composition, consisting of clay, fine white lime, fractional sands, marble powder and CASUL white pigment, allows the product to breathe and also provides a high level of protection against micro-organism/ mould growth, without the use of chemical additives. Sourced naturally and ecologically, the components of lime and clay combine for excellent technical properties, offering moisture absorption, moisture regulation, strength and protection against microorganism growth. Klimafeinputz KFP permits constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment. It regulates moisture in the air and it’s highly breathable, therefore, contributing to humidity regulation – and it works by absorbing moisture quickly and also by releasing it quickly. Similarly, due to its natural chemical composition, it’s particularly alkaline, naturally preventing bringing european innovation

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With all these advantages, Klimafeinputz KFP breathable fine finishing plaster is the architect’s choice in the design of a healthy indoor climate, and it’s naturally sustainable, containing no harmful ingredients.

any mould growth (a property particularly important in the airtight envelopes of the newly built Passive homes). With all these advantages, Klimafeinputz KFP breathable fine finishing plaster is the architect’s choice in the design of a healthy indoor climate, and it’s naturally sustainable, containing no harmful ingredients.

IMPROVING BUILDING HEALTH The plaster is extremely versatile and can be applied onto all common base coats such as lime-cement, cement, gypsum, gypsumlime, gypsum lime-clay and clay plastering renders, as well as onto plaster boards. The addition of CASUL white pigment means that the dried finished plaster has a very bright, white colour, which is excellent news as painting is not mandatory. However, if a colour finish is required, and in order to facilitate maximum breathability when painting, you can use compatible silicate, lime or clay-based paints.

CASEA Klimafeinputz KFP is a factoryproduced special white, mineral fine plaster CS I - according to EN 998-1 suitable for indoor use. It’s pre-mixed and supplied in ready-to-use 25kg buckets with a smooth finish. The addition of the natural binders allows a long open time, ensuring the perfect finish is achieved. Technically, it has an excellent bond to virtually any mineral substrate, therefore proving particularly suitable for new builds. It’s very versatile for walls constructed out of low, medium and high density blockwork and any other masonry substrate. As a finish skim coat, it’s ideal for final finishing of CASEA Casucalc Klima basecoat and CASEA Bauprotec renders and plasters where a smooth finish is required. Being a strong plaster, it can be used in kitchens and bathrooms where tiling is required. The special features dramatically improve the indoor living environment and are active throughout the lifetime of the plaster

surface, making it ideal for use in kitchens, living rooms, student accommodation, hotels, conference facilities, sports facilities - or anywhere where a comfortable indoor ambience is required.

Benefits of CASEA Casucalc Klima and Klimafeinputz KFP • High water vapour permeability (breathability) • Hand or machine application • High hygrometric exchange • High protection against micro-organism growth • Sustainable • Smooth finish • Ready to use • CE EN 998-1:2010 • Comes in 30kg bags and recyclable 25kg buckets • Painting not mandatory

bringing european innovation

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Spot the difference

not all vans need to be white

165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, bt26 6ja. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

FLOORING T

Marking the success of the Back to the Floor recycling scheme at St Luke’s Hospital are (from left) John Murray, PJ Walls; James Murphy, OMP Architects; Declan Lough, Midland Tile Merchants; Paul Carney, Forbo Ireland; Ciaran Ruane, HSE; and Justin Thornton, Contract Flooring Supplies.

Back to the Floor takes care of Irish hospital off-cuts recycling…

Healthy recycling by Forbo at St Luke’s Hospital

orbo Flooring has expanded its Back to the Floor recycling scheme in Ireland following its first successful take back of waste flooring products in the country. Several tonnes of marmoleum and project vinyl off-cuts were collected from St Luke’s General Hospital in Kilkenny City and sent back to Forbo Flooring in the UK for recycling back into new flooring products. Midland Tile Merchants installed 5,500 m² of flooring at a new extension to the existing 1940’s hospital over a period of 10 months. The waste off-cuts were stored in bulk bags at the tile merchants’ large warehouse before being sent back to the UK on organised vanloads. The hospital provides acute healthcare services to the people of Carlow and Kilkenny. The €25million extension includes new A&E, Oncology and Hepatology facilities, plus a Day Services Unit and associated offices. It was completed in early 2015. Recycling waste materials where possible was part of the flooring contract specification, as Declan Lough, Director at Midland Tile Merchants, explained, “Details about Back to the Floor in a Forbo mailshot caught my attention as we were negotiating the hospital contract. “We had to make sure recycling could happen, so it all fell into place. The timing was perfect and we became the first company in Ireland to sign up to the scheme.” Fitters and cleaners working on the project

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Merchants in February. were given colour-coded polythene bags “We’re delighted to welcome them on board and instructed on where to place the off-cuts and hope their success story will encourage correctly. even more flooring professionals in Ireland to “It took some organisation and education to join Back to the Floor,” she said. make sure the right off-cuts were in the right Elsewhere in Ireland, customers can drop bags,” said Declan, “but we’ve proved it can off marmoleum off-cuts free of charge at work.” Contract Flooring Supplies in Dublin. Direct Recycling the off-cuts, versus sending them collections from contractors’ premises can to landfill at €350 per tonne, has, he says, also be arranged for larger volumes of ‘delivered a clear saving on disposal costs’. flooring off-cuts. “We will continue to use Back to the Floor,” Forbo off-cuts, as well as project vinyl adds Declan. “Environmental awareness is growing and people are encouraged to recycle more. Time will tell, but I think that The scheme offers both environmental and being an accredited Back to economic benefits for participants through the Floor collector will help diversion of waste material from landfill and our business in the future.” preservation of raw material resources for For Paul Carney, Managing Director of Forbo Flooring use in new products. Ireland, getting the scheme underway was a priority on flooring off-cuts from most manufacturers, receiving Midland Tile Merchants’ enquiry. are recycled back into new flooring products “We were delighted when they joined the across the company’s portfolio. scheme. As their experience demonstrates, The scheme offers both environmental and collectors can make valuable savings on economic benefits for participants through disposal costs and the materials can be diversion of waste material from landfill and readily recycled back into new products. It’s preservation of raw material resources for use a great environmental story and one which in new products. we hope will inspire others here to come on For more information, call 0161 925 8760 board,” he added. or e-mail backtothefloor@forbo.com. Back to the Floor Scheme Co-ordinator, Alternatively, you can contact Paul Carney Michelle Brewer, said five bulk bags of on 01 289 8898 or e-mail marmoleum off-cuts and one bulk bag of info@forbo-flooring.ie project vinyl were collected from Midland Tile

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U DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

HIGH CAPACITY DRAINAGE SYSTEMS TAKE THE LEAD IN OUR CHANGING CLIMATE…

Volume control from Brett Martin

t is a given that all surface water from buildings must be removed safely without damage to the building, but with climate change resulting in more frequent high intensity rainfall and increased volumes of water, this has presented challenges for specifiers when it comes to the design of rainwater systems. To ensure buildings are able to remove rainwater effectively, high capacity drainage systems are now playing an ever increasing role in protecting buildings and their contents from heavy or constant rainfall. Damaged and badly performing rainwater systems are one of the most common reasons for contractors being called back to a job, according to the BRE (BRE Repairing and Replacing Rainwater Goods 1997). And with water ingress and penetration the principal reason why buildings fail, it is absolutely critical that rainwater systems are designed to remove rainwater quickly and efficiently. In order to provide the most reliable, effective and efficient drainage and to meet the requirements of larger commercial projects, factories, warehouses, agricultural and residential roofs, Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage has specifically developed the new Deepstyle 170 high performance rainwater system.

High volume “With a super-sized 170mm profile, the new Deepstyle 170 rainwater system is the ideal rainwater drainage solution for larger roof areas and has a capacity of 11.54 litres per

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second1” commented Glenn Goodman of Brett Martin. “It also requires fewer discharge points, reducing the number of downpipes to provide both material and installation savings.” The drainage capacity alone provides opportunities for contractors to make savings on both downpipe system installation and underground drainage layouts. Manufactured from modern plastic materials at Brett Martin’s own quality assured BS EN ISO 9001:2008 factory in Mallusk, County Antrim, the Deepstyle 170 system is a robust, hard-wearing solution. Tested to EN 1462 Load Class H to withstand heavy duty snow loading, the high gloss PVC system is also proven to retain its stunning aesthetic with UV protection providing long term colour stability – backed by a 10-year colour warranty.

Ease of installation A unique addition to Deepstyle 170 and one that offers exceptional long-term sealing reliability, the innovative CLIP & SEAL system fully integrates with the fitting so that the specially designed captive seal is held securely within the fitting whilst the clip locks the seal firmly in place. When fitting the gutter, the CLIP provides just enough flex to allow the gutter to locate within the fitting, whilst a reassuring click locks the gutter securely into position compressing the seal for superior sealing. Available in black and grey, Deepstyle 170 integrates seamlessly with Brett Martin’s

110mm Industrial Downpipe System to complete the company’s high capacity offering. Comprising 110mm plain ended or single socket downpipe options, with high quality PVCu fittings, including bends, branches, access pipes and clips, the system retains the adaptability essential in planning an industrial rainwater scheme. As the latest addition to Brett Martin’s rainwater portfolio, Deepstyle 170 complements the existing range which includes 106mm Prostyle, 112mm Roundstyle, 114mm Squarestyle, 115mm Deepstyle and 160mm High Capacity in addition to the innovative and highly acclaimed Cascade range of cast iron effect guttering and downpipe profiles. With a reputation for quality and reliability, Brett Martin’s comprehensive plumbing and drainage range is underpinned by on ground support from the sales team as well as a dedicated technical department who are on hand to help with technical queries. The changing climate and increased rainfall is putting more pressure on UK building stock, which is why removing rainwater from a roof in the most efficient way possible is critical. High capacity drainage systems provide maximum protection and should be equally as important as the roof construction itself. For more information on Bret Martin, telephone 028 9084 9999, e-mail mail@ brettmartin.com or visit the website at www. brettmartin.com/plumbing-and-drainage.aspx 1 Actual test results calculated in site conditions given a fall of 1:350 and maximum roof area 550m².

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U WINDOWS

VELUX® unveils its latest range of New Generation products, including the VELUX CABRIO® Balcony and VELUX® Sun Tunnels…

Maximising daylight in design with VELUX®

atural daylight has been used for centuries as the primary source of interior lighting and has been an implicit part of architecture for as long as buildings have existed. The first architectural guidelines were developed over 2,000 years ago and even then they acknowledged the importance of daylight in design, providing guidance on how to measure the amount of light coming into a room. For over 70 years, no matter the project or scale, VELUX® has been constantly innovating to provide diverse and pioneering products that mean there is no limit to creativity when it comes to bringing light to life. VELUX® believes that how and when daylight enters a building should be guiding principles

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and should play a central role in the overall design. In addition to offering incredible health benefits, incorporating natural daylight solutions can help transform a building and create real impact. To help achieve this, VELUX® recently unveiled its latest range of New Generation products, including the VELUX CABRIO® Balcony and VELUX® Sun Tunnels. The New Generation platform of VELUX® roof windows offer increased access to daylight, contemporary aesthetic design, and improved energy efficiency. The New Generation of VELUX® Sun Tunnel was introduced at the beginning of this year and offers the perfect solution for buildings that need increased daylight where a roof window cannot be fitted. Made up of a rooftop window and a tunnel to transport the daylight inside, the new product allows building spaces to achieve a brighter, more natural indoor environment. This is due to new Edge-Glow technology which uses a ring of clear glass around the edge of the ceiling diffuser that allows for brighter daylight dispersion. A great solution for updating existing structures in a discreet way, the resulting natural light brings more health benefits to those working and living in the space than any electrical lighting can offer, as well as reducing energy consumption. The New Generation VELUX CABRIO® Balcony offers the chance to give areas in workplaces and homes extra space and light. Transforming from a roof window into a balcony in seconds, the VELUX CABRIO® Balcony gives the tightest of areas an injection of daylight and space, as well as

control of fresher air to add a real wow factor to any home or building. With triple glazing now as standard with new VELUX CABRIO® Balcony products, alongside the introduction of screwless, click on cover parts and an even larger size of balcony frame, the new addition to the VELUX® range offers the most modern looking and energy efficient model to date. Access to daylight is important, but how and where it enters the space will also have a significant impact on the design. The height from the floor and the length of the roof window should be taken into account in order to maximise light levels in the room. When planning for this, allowances for how the window will be operated, how much of the outside should be in view and the pitch of the roof should be considered. The lower the pitch, the longer the roof window should be to maximise the view out. The VELUX® Daylight Visualizer is a simple tool, designed to aid this process. It predicts and documents daylight levels and appearance of a space prior to realisation of the building design. Free to download, it can be used to calculate daylight levels and aid in design using different combinations of windows. Although placement and positioning of the roof windows is key for accessing daylight, meeting the functional and aesthetic needs of clients is also important. From sun tunnels and skylights to home automation, VELUX®’s range of stylish solutions can transform any space. For more information or advice, visit www.velux.co.uk

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U AGGREGATES AND SCREED

Leading company launches new website and marketing materials alongside an investment in BIM technology…

Product range builds on Turley brand

stablished for over 50 years, Turley Bros is now regarded as one of Ireland’s leading manufacturers, suppliers and approved installers of resin bound aggregates and Alpha hemihydrate floor screed; concrete septic and water tanks; commercial sewage treatment systems; blocks, bricks and ready mix concrete; and precast ‘A’ and ‘L’ walls. With an excellent reputation in an ever-expanding market, Turley Bros is all too aware of the need to keep up with technological changes, not just in manufacturing and production techniques, but for marketing purposes too. That’s why the company has recently invested in design, producing a range of marketing materials that make it easy to reach out to existing and potential clients. The new website - www.turleybros.com - categorises the company’s extensive range of products, from resin bound surfacing to precast concrete products. It is easy to navigate and detailed information on each product is at hand instantly, giving potential clients a logical and friendly user experience. Already Turley Bros has seen enquiries and sales increase due to this online

Turley Bros’ new website concentrates on providing easily accessible information on their products.

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Prestigious jobs include ResinPath at Malahide Castle in Dublin.

Range of product marketing brochures.

presence. The website is responsive too, making it easily accessible on tablets and mobile phones, which is essential for today’s marketing methods. As well as keeping a close eye on the technology side of marketing, Turley Bros also believes in traditional values and methods. Hence the extensive range of informative product brochures which, as well as being downloadable from the website, are sent out following enquiries or as sales tools. The marketing literature and the products promoted in them have been completely rebranded and modernised. “With such a diverse range of products, our marketing material was previously individually designed for each product,” explained Director, Fergal Turley. “The new branding of the company and its products gives a visual consistency, projecting a strong uniformity which reflects our corporate values and team culture. “Because the identity is visually consistent, it means we’re not having to rebrand each individual product. On the contrary, any new product coming on board, be it water harvesting tanks or Alpha hemihydrate floor screed, is given the strong Turley brand. And it saves on design costs too.” Turley Bros has an enviable client list throughout the private and public sectors, having produced surfacing solutions for companies such as Tesco, Lagan, Spanish company Applicator SLU, Felix O’Hare, and O’Hare McGovern. Turley Bros is proud to have Malahide Castle and Phoenix Park in Dublin as famous locations that feature the company’s surfacing expertise. In addition, Turley Bros has supplied blocks, bricks and readymix to the likes of MJM, MCR, Norbrook

Laboratories and Hill Engineering, and has already sold hundreds of its concrete septic and water harvesting tanks throughout Ireland. All Turley Bros’ concrete building products are manufactured to relevant BS standards and carry the CE mark. Turley Bros is also a leader in the manufacture, supply and installation of commercial sewage treatment systems, having supplied sewage treatment systems for hospitals, schools, hotels, nursing homes, leisure centres and sports pitches throughout Ireland. All systems supplied are fully installed and commissioned – with an effluent quality guarantee supplied.

BIM TECHNOLOGY There is no doubt that Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology in the construction industry is the way forward. The requirements by 2016 are for all centrally procured Government projects to be fully collaborative 3D BIM (with all project and asset information, documentation and data being digital). Turley Bros is investing in BIM in order for architects, project managers and quantity surveyors to easily integrate Turley products into an overall project, giving information about each product and bringing Turley products to the fore. The use of digital modelling has greatly enhanced the process of understanding a complete project from an early stage, and Turley Bros recognises the value and opportunity that BIM brings to the table. For more information about Turley Bros, visit www.turleybros.com. Turley Bros has sales representatives covering the UK and Ireland who would be happy to assist you with any technical queries.

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U TOOLS AND WORKWEAR

From traffic management and PPE through to hand tools, tape and cable ties, the essential quality of this product range shines through…

AGM Belfast - meeting your essential project needs

very construction project requires a core set of essentials and that is where AGM Belfast Ltd is the perfect partner. From traffic management products such as fencing pins/bars, road cones and barrier gates through to personal protective equipment including hi-vis vests, helmets and gloves, the company has it covered. AGM Belfast also supplies a wide range of hand and contractor tools and miscellaneous products such as cable ties, adhesive tapes, load straps and even teapots, not to mention the janitorial range that includes waste bins, cleaning materials and paper towel dispensers. Chris Connolly, Managing Director of AGM Belfast, explained, “We are adding to our product range all the time to meet the needs of the construction sector. All our products are essential to every project and thanks to our high stock levels and strong relationships with contractors and merchants we can deliver them quickly and effectively.” The impressive product range, available from its base at Ravenhill Road in Belfast, is only matched by the company’s service. “This is a competitive marketplace so price

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and service are both crucial aspects of what we provide,” he added. “Price will always be a major factor in deciding where you buy but if you can match this with a great service then it can make a real difference. “The schedules that contractors are facing are tighter than ever, so they want a reliable partner to deliver these products. With the pressure they are under, contractors don’t have the time to waste on trying to source new barrier fencing or signage or bring in new PPE. That is why we provide a straightforward service that allows them to focus on the more challenging aspects of their work. “A lot of our success is down to our experienced team. We may have a small team but they have a great knowledge base and access to a quality product range.” AGM Belfast has been in existence, under various guises, since the 1960s, when it was involved in the supply of safety equipment and contract tools to the construction trade. In those days the company was known as Buckley Scaffolding Ltd but in 2007 it became AGM Equipment Ltd before finally becoming AGM Belfast Ltd in 2012.

“Throughout all the name changes our commitment to provide a high standard of product at a competitive price has remained. We believe that supplying good quality tools and products is what our customers want, so that is why we only stock the best quality ranges. “We will continue to diversify and we plan to bring in new products to our range. Our strong relationships with our customers means we can listen to what they need and respond quickly.” For more information on AGM Belfast or for a product catalogue, telephone 028 9045 2613, e-mail info@agmbelfast.com or visit the website at www.agmbelfast.com

Product categories… The extensive product portfolio available from AGM Belfast covers four main categories: • Traffic management • Personal protective equipment • Hand tools • Janitorial

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40 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8EB T 028 9045 2613 E info@agmbelfast.com W www.agmbelfast.com

SUPPLIERS OF: TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PRODUCTS • PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT • HAND TOOLS • JANITORIAL PRODUCTS

• 1st Class Service • Locally Owned • Easy access from all routes

REQUEST A

CATALOGUE

INFO@AGM

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U TOOLS AND WORKWEAR

Big expansion plans are on the cards for Ireland’s biggest plant AND TOOL hire group, HSS/Laois Hire…

HSS Hire is branching out

HS/Laois Hire Group has launched three new branches in Ballymena, Galway and Portadown with plans for a further six new branches this year! The HSS/Laois Hire Group is Ireland’s largest rental firm with outlets in every city and quite a few towns across the island. As such, it’s the most well established plant hire brand throughout Ireland and UK. The combined HSS/Laois Hire Group is an award-winning tool and equipment hire company, providing a complete equipment management and hire service to big businesses, trade and DIY customers since 1957. As the only nationwide hire company, HSS/ Laois Hire Group has an established network of 24 hire branches and supercentres across Ireland and is continuing to grow. Michael Killeen, Managing Director of HSS Hire Ireland, Scotland and Isle of Man and the Laois Hire Group, said it’s all about giving the customers what they want. “We have consistently invested heavily in our fleet, even during the recession years, in order to maintain a modern up to date fleet and to ensure our customers receive excellent service throughout Ireland,” he said. The HSS/Laois Hire Group focuses primarily on safety, availability, value and support; working with their customer base to help keep their businesses working safely and efficiently whilst driving down their costs. The group also includes a leading training company to ensure customers and their workforce are fullycompliant and safe. In 2005, the Laois Hire Group joined with HSS Hire Group and successfully navigated through the recession to see year-on-year growth. Michael Killeen’s leadership steered the group through the worst the recession could throw at it and allowed to emerge from the collapse of the economy in good shape to do business. Part of the success has come from the company’s ability to work with clients on some of the highest profile projects in Ireland,

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including the M50, M7 and M8 motorways, N9, Dublin Airport Terminal 2, Monasterevin Bypass and Intel. An agile approach to the group’s stock is also an important factor in the success story. “We have an integrated logistics division that moves stock around the country effectively and efficiently 24 hours a day – most impressively when the company moved an entire plant range across to Beckton in East London for the Olympic Games where we supplied large plant equipment to the large customer demand,” recalled Killeen. The significant acquisition of Mobile Traffic Solutions, as well as the rolling out of HSS Power has enabled the company to establish the title of leading specialist tool and equipment hire company in Ireland. The company has also established a comprehensive Powered Access Division in the Dublin Greenogue Business Park. The addition of HSS Power means that the company now offers a complete power solution service, providing a wide range of power generation and power generation related items. It also offers an efficient 24hour, 365-day specialist back-up and repair service. New capabilities in larger capacity and specialist generators mean that the group can now provide power for all applications up to a massive 1250kVa. Michael pointed out that the company is made up of a number of different sectors under the one umbrella, catering for

everything from training, cleaning equipment services, powered access, power, plant, portable sanitation hire to VMS boards and vast expertise in cleanroom environments. He also highlighted the company’s capability to “supply everything from the start of a site to the finish of a site”. The company has recently secured the agency for Selwood pumps in Ireland and has already placed a significant six-figure order. That order reflects what Paul Mann, Client Director at Selwood describes as, ‘The revival of the Irish construction sector – both public and private’. Michael has taken the group to new heights in terms of its business turnover, market share and international standing. By working closely with customers, providing them with a first-class service at competitive prices and offering innovative hire solutions, Michael and the HSS/Laois Hire team seem to have hit on a winning formula. “Success for a hire company is all about continually adapting to the needs of the customer with the aim of providing a onestop-shop for hire needs across all industries with innovative solutions,” concludes Michael. “At HSS Hire/Laois Hire we firmly believe that we can provide an unrivalled hire experience.”

For more information on HSS Hire or to find your nearest branch, visit www.hss.com

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U northern builder

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SANDS T

Sands for construction and specialist uses available from leading specialists…

Specialist sands from Norman Emerson Group

and is the primary product that can be traced to the origins of the Norman Emerson Group some 70 years ago and sand remains central to the company’s commercial offering to this day. The company’s expertise with sand has grown and developed over the decades to allow for diversification into a range of sand specifications. The spectrum of sand types range from classified free draining sands, silica sands, building sands, plastering sands to industrialised kiln dried sands and

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bespoke sand mixes. The company also specialises in stabilising additives for sand surfaces and can produce soil/sand mixes designed to meet the requirements of customer specification. From sport turf surfacing, equestrian arenas to golf courses the Norman Emerson Group supplies to a wide range of customers. The company has supplied the renowned ‘Meadow’s Equestrian Centre’ Lurgan, and Demot Lennon’s

arena (world champion show jumper). The iconic Croke Park football pitch was supplied with Emerson sand as was the prestigious Lough Erne Golf Resort. Whatever the contract Norman Emerson is committed to providing excellence in product quality and service delivery. Contact Norman Emerson for all your sand requirements and view the complementary product ranges at www.normanemerson.com or telephone to talk to professional advisors on 028 38 340222.

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U events

Annual golf days for Conlig, Ladas Drive and Balmoral branches...

Haldane Fisher hits the fairways

aldane Fisher’s branches at Conlig, Ladas Drive and Balmoral recently hosted their annual golf days at Bangor and Shandon Golf Clubs respectively. The company provided both customers and suppliers with 18 holes of golf followed by refreshments, with everyone enjoying a great round of golf. Haldane Fisher has issued its thanks to all the guests who attended the events and also the sponsors.

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U insulation

ISOVER launches Vario Bond, a new plasterable airtightness tape specifically developed for the Irish marketâ&#x20AC;Ś

Strengthen the bond with Isover T his summer saw ISOVER Ireland launching Vario Bond, an innovative new airtightness tape to the market, which has been developed in Ireland specifically for the Irish market. Vario Bond is a high performance plasterable airtightness tape, with an Sd value of 0.3-20m, available in two widths 100mm and 150mm, both with a 25m roll length. It is a multi-functional airtightness solution for a variety of applications, including around windows, doors and timber to block connections. Due to its innovative fleece material Vario Bond is also suitable for internal and external use and is airtight, windtight and driving rain proof and, importantly, it can be plastered or rendered over directly, using Gypsum based plasters or sand and cement. Vario Bondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to bond to bricks,

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blocks, PVC, sand and cement or timber, combined with a high adhesive strength, makes the product an indispensable tool in achieving high airtightness and moisture control results. The tape also has handy pre-splits with finger-lift function for easy installation allowing for quicker installation times and thereby, reduced costs. Vario Bond, as part of the overall Vario system, is the next step in ensuring that homes are airtight and moisture controlled, providing added protection from heat loss, and prevention of draughts that can help to beat current and future regulations, as well as providing cost and energy savings. Vario Bond has been certified for indoor air quality and holds the GEV Emicode EC1 Plus. Vario Bond offers the best airtight and moisture control results and, when used with

Due to its innovative fleece material Vario Bond is also suitable for internal and external use and is airtight, windtight and driving rain proof.

the Vario complete solution of membranes, tapes and sealant, can offer fantastic airtightness and moisture control results for any project. To watch the Vario Bond installation movie or download the product guide,log onto www.isover.ie For further information, log onto www.isover.ie or e-mail info@isover. ie. For sales queries, please contact Regional Sales Manager, Martin McKenna, telephone 0797 1596401.

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U new products

Affinity255 - heavy commercial LVT in a brand new specification

Reinforcements for maximum knee protection Title

n The innovative new Affinity255 from Polyflor offers a range of high design, heavy commercial luxury vinyl tiles, to work in perfect harmony with vinyl sheet flooring ranges. Featuring an eclectic mix of 16 authentically reproduced wood plank designs, the 2mm gauge Affinity2 collection offers straightforward installation alongside 2mm vinyl sheet flooring. For more information, telephone 0161 767 1111 or visit www.polyflor.com

n ToughBuilt has expanded its range of high quality, innovative kneepads. The ToughBuilt Knee Pads range now features 2in1 Knee Pads with a rugged, shatter-resistant plastic for use on rough terrain, while the newToughBuilt Waterproof Knee Pads, provide a closed cell, high-density foam for all-day protection and comfort. For more information call 0121 704 2324 or visit www.toughbuilt.trade

Polyflor vinyl flooring adds finishing touch n Vinyl flooring from Polyflor’s Classic Mystique PUR and Expona Design ranges was recently used to create a fresh, modern office environment for international technology company, Analog Devices in Limerick. Both ranges are enhanced with PUR, Polyflor’s exclusive and robust polyurethane reinforcement, which is cross linked and UV cured to provide superior cleaning benefits. For more information, telephone 0161 767 1111 or visit www.polyflor.com

Title Forticrete launches roof tile fixing specification website

Combisafe loading system delivers major safety benefits

n Forticrete has launched a new roof tile fixing specification website, designed to speed up and simplify the specification process. The new easy-to-navigate website enables house builders and developers to complete a request for a roof tile fixing specification in just a few clicks. For more information, visit www. myforticreteroof.co.uk

n Working with the Combisafe SkyReach Anchor, the new Combisafe Loading System MkII enables workers to safely load or unload flatbed trailers and raised decks in yards or on worksites. Flat-packed to make it easier to move and store, assembly and disassembly is quick and simple thanks to the new boltless design and with adjustable feet, the base can remain level even when placed on rough ground. For more information, telephone 01604 660600 or visit www.combisafe.com

Hitachi launches Brushless Rotary Hammer n Hitachi Power Tools’ new AC Brushless Motor Rotary Hammer series, for drilling larger holes, feature maintenance-free brushless motors and an optimized hammer mechanism for the fastest drilling speeds and highest demolition performance in their class. The Rotary Demolition Hammers also feature rugged aluminium housing, making them perfect for those tough demolition and material removal jobs. For more details, visit www.hitachi-powertools.co.uk

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U CONCRETE & CEMENT

CES QUARRIES REPORTS AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE SWITCHING TO UFH SYSTEMS, THANKS TO THE BENEFITS OF USING LIQUID SCREED…

Liquid assets U sing liquid screed brings many advantages when going on to fit underfloor heating systems (UFHs). CES Quarry Products, which produces quality liquid screed, has seen an increase in sales as more customers recognise the benefits of UFH systems, and the added value that using liquid screed can add to the operation. “To begin with, CES liquid screed floors result in improved heat. They also provide a better surface to lay the likes of tiles and vinyl, where tolerances are tighter,” said Steven Oldham, Sales and Marketing Executive. “It makes the most of space and can future-proof the heating system to allow for the adaption of air source and ground source heat pumps at a later date.” CES Liquid Screed is a self-levelling liquid screed based on anhydrite binder instead of cement, and conforms to BS EN13813 CAC25-F5. This type of screed has many benefits over the tradition cement – sand screed. It is quicker to lay, has a thinner screed depth, and has a much lower risk of shrinkage or cracking. However, the main benefits are seen when used with underfloor heating

systems. Free flowing CES Liquid Screed fully encapsulates the heating pipes without voids and needs only to cover the pipes by 25mm, resulting in a much more responsive heating system, which is more economical to run (underfloor heating systems must always be tested before screed installation). “At CES, we believe service is key, and that each customer is as important as the other, regardless of how big or small their project is,” said Steven. “By using our all-in-one package you are guaranteed a quality job from the first drop to the last. Our team of installers have decades of experience with the installation of screed floors, from small one-room extensions to large commercial buildings. “We offer support before, during and long after the screed is installed, providing information and support to ensure that you - and your floor - are 100% ready for the trades that follow. “CES is also leading the way to ensure that liquid screed floors are sanded and prepared as recommended by the CFA (Contract Flooring Association) and by the majority of tile adhesive manufacturers.”

Benefits of the CES Liquid Screed Text • Can be laid at 50mm onto underfloor heating, allowing for more insulation. • Fully encapsulates the underfloor heating pipes, maximising the heat transfer. • Faster drying times due to the lower depths and ability to force-dry after seven days. • Lower depth of screed allows for the use of a thicker, lower cost EPS insulation, negating the price of the liquid floor whilst keeping the benefits and still maintaining the ‘U’ value required. • CES Liquid Screed typically has twice the thermal conductivity (2.2m/m2K) than traditional screed (1.1w/m2K), meaning that underfloor heating systems with CES Liquid Screed cost less to run. • The binder used in CES Liquid Screed is sourced within the UK and is tried and tested by some of the largest readymix companies and flooring contract companies in the UK. • Eco friendly CES Liquid Screed has a low carbon footprint of just 15.44kg of Carbon Dioxide per tonne of binder compared to cement at approx 600kg of Carbon Dioxide per tonne.

CES Quarry Products Ltd, Doran’s Rock, 124 Crossgar Road, Saintfield, County Down, T: 028 9751 9494 – F: 028 9751 9750 – E: sales@cesquarryproducts.com www.cesquarryproducts.com

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