Northern Builder Magazine Issue Vol27-No6 2016

F CO RE PY E

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE:

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

n Concrete and Cement n Arvalee School, Omagh n Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh n CTS Projects

Vol 27 No 6 2016

A new era for Brooke Park MAIN CONTRACTOR

www.woodvaleconstruction.co.uk

One screed to rule them all

Benefits of Rapidur® FE 678 Self Levelling Screed • Foot traffic in 3 hours - ready for tiling in 24 hours • Self-levelling and pumpable – efficient application • Unrivalled performance in combination with underfloor heating • Can be polished to achieve polished concrete / terrazzo finish • Ultra-low shrinkage • Premix, just add water Full specification, technical and site support services Made in Germany | EN ISO 9001 | CE | SFV | TUM | TZW

bringing european innovation

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Smet Building Products Ltd 93A Belfast Road | Newry | BT34 1QH | Northern Ireland T: +44 (0) 28 3026 6833 | F: +44 (0) 28 3026 7619 | E: info@smetbuildingproducts.com www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

NORTHERN BUILDER

Inside this issue...

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Issue 27-6 - Dec/Jan 2016

News & Views

Projects

4

Investment by McAvoy Group

13-29 Arvalee School & Resource Centre

6

CIOB members get an education

12

Apprentices shine at Skills Show

30

HLM celebrates growth

38-39 CIOB’s record breakers

32-33 Cartrawler, Dundrum 77-89 Brooke Park, Derry 99-108 Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh

35-37 Winners at RSUA’s Architecture Night

Regulars

In Focus 8-9

38-39 CIOB

Fire Safety Panel conference

36-37 RSUA

41-44 CTS Projects celebrates 49-68 Concrete and cement

12

70

Project leads from CIS Architectural insight from 2020

93

Energy saving grants advice from

76

Invest NI

95 FMB

36

41

50

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy | Advertising Mairead Reid Managing Editor, Print & Digital Adam Hassin Editorial Diane Day and Denise Maguire Head Designer Julie Anne Guiney | Design & Digital Jo Wilson Accounts Michelle Owens Photography Gordon McAvoy | Printed by W&G Baird

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: northernbuilder@kmpltd.co.uk www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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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.

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NEWS

BASSETTS NAMED UK’S BEST HEATING AND PLUMBING MERCHANT

Pictured (from left) are Northern Health and Social Care Trust Chief Executive, Tony Stevens, and Chair, Bob McCann (right), alongside Choice Housing’s Chair, Hazel Bell, and Chief Executive, Michael McDonnell at the new Greenisland project.

£3.3M GREENISLAND PROJECT REACHES MAJOR MILESTONE The final roof beam at Greenisland has been set in place, just 18 months after work started on this housing development.

Community representatives joined developers Choice Housing in partnership with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive for a tour of the Shore Road site to take a look at the progress that’s been made since construction began. The £3.3million project will provide 32 new state-of-the-art homes and also care services for older people.

Bob McCann, Chair, Northern Health and Social Care Trust, said, “We have now passed the half-way point in the construction

phase which is on course to be completed early next year.

That’s a great credit to Choice, the architect and the contractor.

Though this scheme shares its name with the old facility it is replacing, it will bring a new approach and will play an important role in allowing people in the Greenisland and Newtownabbey area to retain their independence and remain part of their community.”

The scheme, designed by RPP Architect with M.J. McBride Construction Ltd appointed as project contractor, is funded through a mix of private financing secured by Choice Housing and grants from the Department for Communities.

Bassetts, Northern Ireland’s largest plumbing and heating supplier, has been crowned the Best Heating and Plumbing Merchant in the UK at a national awards ceremony in London.

The company, which has 15 branches in the region, fought off stiff competition from national companies including City Plumbing Supplies, that has over 300 stores across the UK, to claim the coveted accolade at the UK Builders’ Merchants Awards for Excellence Awards 2016.

Now in their fifteenth year, the awards celebrate the success of the finest, most innovative and best exponents of great business practice in the building merchant industry across the UK. The judges described Bassetts as a great business that “offers the full package and which has transformed themselves over the past few years despite operating in a very difficult market”.

Managing Director of Bassetts, Alan Wright, commented, “We are honoured to have won this prestigious award and to be recognised as the best in the UK. Our company has gone from strength to strength over the past few years and recently we claimed Northern Ireland Plumbers Merchant of the Year for the third time.

“I would like to thank each and every member of our staff as our recent success would not be possible without their dedication, commitment and excellent customer service.”

For further information, visit www.bassettsonline.com or telephone 028 3833 94 38.

Alan Wright, Managing Director of Bassetts, (centre) is presented with the Best Heating and Plumbing Merchant in the UK accolade at the UK Builders’ Merchants Awards for Excellence Awards 2016 by Dara Brien, compere, and Dean Heathfield, Commercial Director, Talon.

£10MILLION INVESTMENT BY MCAVOY GROUP Offsite construction company, the McAvoy Group, is investing nearly £10million to consolidate its position as one of the leading offsite modular construction companies in the UK. Headquartered in Dungannon, the McAvoy

Pictured are Economy Minister Simon Hamilton MLA with Orla Corr OBE, Executive Chairperson and Eugene Lynch, Managing Director of the McAvoy Group.

4 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Group which delivers fast-track design and build projects comprising permanent buildings, extensions to existing buildings and hire modules, has plans to grow its turnover to £100million by 2020. The multi-million-pound investment over the next four years will enable the company to grow its Permanent Modular Construction Division, replenish its Hire Division stock, invest in new IT infrastructure as well as creating 38 new roles.

Invest Northern Ireland has offered an Employment Grant of £198,000 to support the creation of 18 of the jobs and a further £135,000 under it Skills Growth Programme towards the company’s training activities.

Commending the company on its continued commitment to invest in innovation and skills

development, Economy Minister Simon Hamilton said, “The McAvoy Group is a great example of a local company achieving significant growth as a result of their ongoing commitment to invest in innovation and skills development.”

The announcement followed the news that the McAvoy Group has had its expertise in the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) acknowledged by a nomination in the recently-held Irish BIM Innovation awards in Dublin.

The County Tyrone-headquartered company was nominated in the construction category for its work at Sythwood School, Woking.

For more information, visit www.mcavoygroup.com

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NEWS

CIAT MEMBERS VISIT QUINN INNOVATION ACADEMY

Some of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre members pictured at the new Computer Sciences Building at Queen’s University during a recent tour.

CIOB MEMBERS GET AN EDUCATION AT QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY The Estates Department at Queen’s University Belfast recently hosted a presentation to members of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) on the planned capital development programme for the University’s estate. The University is a major employer of the construction Industry, with £350million to be spent on construction projects between 2016 and 2025.

The presentation was followed by tours of two recently completed major construction projects to help give attendees an insight into the types of projects that will

be procured in the future. Gerard Graham, Chair of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre, said, “This event was really useful for CIOB members, as the attendees found out how to compete for new business relating to the planned construction works.

Topics discussed included the need for early contractor involvement on projects; preferred forms of contract; where the projects will be advertised; and the requirement for companies to be able to work within occupied buildings.”

For more information, visit www.ciob.org

MARCON’S HISTORICAL CENTRE OPENS IN GALWAY Marcon’s latest project – Pearse Cultural Centre at Pearse’s Cottage in County Galway – has been officially opened by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

A major part of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme, the centre is set in Ros Muc where Patrick Pearse, one of the leaders of the 1916 Rising, spent his summers from 1909 to 1915. Working closely with interpretive designers, Bright, Marcon completed the internal and external elements of the project over two phases, successfully carrying out the manufacture and installation of bespoke joinery elements and the coordination of display cases, interactives, audio visual and graphic installation.

Martin McErlean, Contracts Manager

6 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Quinn Building Products technical team recently welcomed over 40 members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) to the company’s new Innovation Academy for a CPD Seminar.

The group heard how the company’s technical team has developed tools and services designed to help professionals in their daily work. With more and more emphasis being placed on sustainability and building performance, the technical team was able to highlight how the use of Quinn Building Products and a fabric first approach can help address design issues.

Quinn Building Products offers free CPD seminars to Building Design and other construction professionals.

To find out more, e-mail technical@quinnbuildingproducts.com For further information visit www.ciat.org.uk

Some of the CIAT members who took part in the CPD at Quinn Building Products’ Innovation Academy.

HELM AND FOLD MERGER GETS A STEP CLOSER

Alan Stewart, Business Development Manager, Marcon; Sonya Nic Lochlainn, Údarás na Gaeltachta and Martin McErlean, Heritage Contracts Manager, Marcon in the new exhibition at Ionad Cultúrtha an Phiarsaigh, Conamara.

at Marcon, said, “The new centre will provide an introduction to the Irish language and Gaeltacht culture along with being a community hub and destination for visitors to Co. Galway. This is the latest cultural exhibition project completed by our experienced heritage team.”

For more information, visit www.marconfitout.com

A plan to create a new association which would provide more than 12,000 homes across Northern Ireland has in principle been approved.

The Boards of Fold and Helm Housing Associations will now enter a period of consultation with stakeholders before seeking formal consent from shareholders and statutory authorities to allow the merger to be completed in full.

It is expected that the consultations and approval process will conclude in early 2017, and the merged association will come into operation on April 1, 2017. The new and improved association also has ambitious plans to increase social investment, deliver apprenticeship and employment schemes for local communities, and invest in ICT to improve choice and service delivery. In its first five years the social enterprise is forecast to increase its assets to £1.25billion and its turnover to £110million, whilst investing around £325million in the local construction and contracting industry.

For more information, visit www.foldireland.ie or www.helmhousing.org

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2017

FIRE Safety Conference

# Advancing fire safety Thursday 9th & Friday 10th February 2017 Killyhevlin Hotel & Health Club Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT74 6RW

BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW...

Bookings to: firesafetypanel@gmail.com

NI FIRE SAFETY CONFERENCE 2017

2017

FIRE Safety Conference

# Advancing fire safety Thursday 9th & Friday 10th February 2017 Killyhevlin Hotel & Health Club Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT74 6RW

350 YEARS SINCE THE... ‘GREAT FIRE OF LONDON’

2017 Fire Safety Conference book now!

T

he highly successful ‘Northern Ireland Fire Safety Conference’ will take place on February 9-10, 2017 at the Killyhevlin Hotel and Health Club, Enniskillen, with those interested in attending urged to book their places now.

This is the 21st annual conference organised by the Northern Ireland Fire Safety Panel and it will once again bring together delegates from a range of backgrounds, including fire and rescue services, Building Control, entertainment licensing, universities, consultants and international service providers interested in fire safety research and best practice.

The Fire Safety Liaison Panel encompasses the disciplines of Building Control, the Northern

8 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, the Entertainment Licensing Officers Forum, and the NIHE – HMO Unit.

This organisation strives to highlight the latest topical information in fire safety and the annual conference is a popular arena to create debate and discussion.

The 2017 Conference will reflect upon the advances which have been made in Fire Safety, on this the 350th anniversity of the Great Fire of London.

Presentations will include the importance of fire safety systems in a range of building types, form large scale storage depot’s, specialist living units, recycling facilities and in venues where the public assembly for entertainment.

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NI FIRE SAFETY CONFERENCE 2017

Conference topics and presentations DAY ONE A range of trade exhibitors will be in place to display the very latest technologic solutions available in the Fire Safety world.

The range of high-quality speakers have been gathered together to present papers on topical and thought-provoking issues and, as in other years, the conference aims to be interactive and will involve audience participation and questions. It also equates to eight hours CPD. The event will also include a wide range of industry exhibitors displaying the very latest technologic solutions available in the Fire Safety community, and to speak to delegates about their specific requirements.

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• The Evolution of Fire Safety Legislation - 350 years since the ‘Great Fire of London’ • Industry shop window By - Various exhibitors • Structural Fire Protection • Fire! Fire! Fire! What happens next after you call 999?

• Licencing and Fire Safety at large Entertainment Venues • Oxygen depletion – Fire Safety Case Study

DAY TWO • Fire Safety in specialist dwellings - B&B’s, Short term lets & Supported living accommodation • Fire Engineering Developments in Residential Buildings • Preventing Fires in Recycling Plants – Case Study • Human behaviour in Fire in Licenced Premises

Bookings to: firesafetypanel@gmail.com Trade exhibitors to: Sean.McConville@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 9

FIRE PROTECTION

EXTENSIVE RANGE OF HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS IS MATCHED BY A SERVICE THAT PROVIDES ARCHITECTS, SPECIFIERS AND CONTRACTORS WITH COMPLETE PEACE OF MIND…

Fire protection from Tennants Building Products

F

rom passive firefighting to firestopping products, Tennants Building Products offers a comprehensive range that is helping to make buildings safer.

The company’s exclusive product range covers both fire protection and passive fire protection, and includes fire protection boards, fire barriers, fire pillows, intumescent compounds, pipe wraps/ collars and cavity barriers.

The company is consistently enhancing this product range to ensure that customers meet the constantly challenging criteria of fire containment, giving them complete peace of mind that they are meeting the latest standards. As well as an impressive product range, the first-class service from Tennants also includes expert technical guidance to ensure architects, consultants, builders’ merchants and contractors select the right products.

Tennants Building Products prides itself on working with industry-leading manufacturers, including:

• Promat – A leader in passive fire

protection and high temperature

insulation, products include Promaseal,

Supalux, Durasteel, Masterboard and Blueclad.

• Rockwool - The Rockwool FirePro range

provides a comprehensive choice of fire

protection and fire-stopping solutions.

• FSi Ltd - A comprehensive range of

compartmentation systems that are

primarily used to prevent or slow down

the passage of fire, air, sound, movement

and water.

Regardless of the project, the approach by Tennants Building Products will work closely with the project team at pre-construction stage right through to completion. In this way, Tennants can facilitate designers and contractors by sourcing industry-leading products that meet the exacting specifications of their project. This level of service is offered across the company’s vast product range but is particularly important when it comes to fire protection.

Representing leading manufacturers By only working with leading manufacturers, Tennants Building Products provides customers complete peace of mind.

The company’s distinctive range of world-class manufacturers gives you the choice you need when specifying or installing products of the highest quality.

This is demonstrated by the range of manufacturers, highlighted below:

Tennants, 46 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8EB T: 028 9073 1501 – F: 028 9045 0927 – E: Belfast@tennantsbp.com www.tennantsbp.com

10 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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Fire Protection From passive firefighting to fire-stopping products, our comprehensive range is helping to make buildings safer‌

tennants excellence in building products

Belfast Office: 46 Ravenhill Road Belfast BT6 8EB T: 028 9073 1501 F: 028 9045 0927 E: belfast@tennantsbp.com

www.tennantsbp.com

NEWS

MIVAN ON BOARD FOR TOP AWARD South Eastern Regional College apprentice Jemual Chamos, Gold medal winner in bricklaying, receives his award from Oliver Farrell, CITB GB.

APPRENTICES SHINE AT SKILLS SHOW Twenty local apprentices from Northern Ireland representing the Built Environment brought home seven medals from the WorldSkills UK Show, held recently at NEC Birmingham.

The Skills Show is the UK’s largest skills and careers event and it is designed to reward talent and drive up levels of expertise in further education.

From South Eastern Regional College, Jemual Chamos achieved Gold in bricklaying; William Campbell, Gold in carpentry; and Luke Courtney and Chris Hoy Gold and Silver respectively in refrigeration. From South West College, Stuart Graham achieved Gold in electrical installation, Gareth Elliott Bronze

in joinery; and Daniel McAteer Bronze in plastering and dry wall systems.

Highly commended in their categories were Christopher Jeffery, cabinet making; Richard Shannon, joinery from Southern Regional College; and Jamie Howe, joinery from Southern Regional College.

Those who excel in the WorldSkills UK Show competitions may be invited to join the training programme to represent the UK at the international WorldSkills competitions, which take place every two years. The next WorldSkills competitiion will be held in Abu Dhabi in 2017.

For more information, visit www.citbni.org.uk

Mivan Marine has won the Hospitality Fit Out Project of the Year at the annual Fit Out Awards 2016 in Dublin.

The Antrim-based specialist contractor won the accolade for its work in fitting out 10 luxury carriages for the Belmond Grand Hibernian train. A total of 60 skilled craftspeople and 35,000 man hours were dedicated to transforming the former Mark III Irish Rail carriages into elegant cars with interiors reflecting Dublin’s Georgian architecture and the Irish countryside.

Neil Ward, Mivan CEO, said: “Mivan has earned a reputation for delivering superlative results on the global stage, resulting in a 50% year-on-year growth in 2016, an aspiration to employ 200 skilled staff by the end of 2017 and a strong forward order book stretching into 2018.”

For more visit www.mivan.com

EGGER FLOORING HELPS WYDER REACH NEW HEIGHTS

E

GGER UK’s new OSB HDX 30mm load-bearing panels have been used by Wyder Engineered Timber Systems as part of a £250,000 expansion of its manufacturing facility near Preston in Lancashire.

The company has increased its production facilities on-site by creating a 280sqm mezzanine level using EGGER OSB HDX boards to house modern, spacious offices for its growing workforce, new meeting rooms, catering and washroom facilities.

EGGER UK specialises in the design and manufacture of structural flooring boards for use in both residential and commercial build

The mezzanine level at Wyder Engineered Timber Systems.

12 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

projects throughout the UK and Ireland.

The high cost of moving premises is leading many businesses to look at installing mezzanine floors as a way of utilising space, and the new 30mm structural flooring board is ideal – being wider, lighter and stronger than conventional 38mm boards, as well as having higher load points and UDLs. EGGER OSB HDX is a 2400mm x 675mm board with a tongue and groove on the two long edges. When compared to a typical 38mm chipboard equivalent with a 600mm width, the user gains just over 11% more coverage per panel. Despite this extra width, it is around 20% lighter than 38mm chipboard making it easier to manoeuvre and quicker to fit. The low swelling properties of OSB HDX mean that the board is less likely to pick up moisture that can lead to uneven floors, which is another added benefit to the installer.

To find out more about EGGER OSB HDX, telephone 0845 602 4444, e-mail building.uk@egger.com or visit www.egger.com/hdx

Fitting EGGER OSB HDX.

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

AN INTRODUCTION

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE MARKS A NEW ERA FOR SHARED EDUCATION IN THE OMAGH AREA… g

Schooled for success www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

OVERVIEW

GREAT TEAMWORK BEHIND SUCCESS OF STATE-OF-THE-ART NEW SCHOOL BUILD…

BREEAM excellence for Woodvale Construction at Arvalee school

T

he £8.25million Arvalee School and Resource Centre in Omagh has been delivered as Phase One of the new Strule Shared Education Campus. A pioneering approach to delivering education in the area, it will see five other new postprimary schools being built alongside Arvalee on the site of the former Lisanelly Barracks army base in Omagh (total value £130million).

Setting a high bar for the construction of the remainder of the Strule Campus development, Arvalee stands as a beacon of first-class design and construction.

The new school building was opened in September, four years after the old school burned down, following a 16-month contract led by main contractor, Woodvale Construction, in a joint venture with Lowry Building and Civil Engineering Ltd. The project was completed on schedule and within budget.

The controlled special school is for children

and young people aged three to 19 years old, with moderate and severe learning difficulties, and is centred around four hubs.

These have been designed to maximise the potential in children of various ages in a unique design which caters sensitively and appropriately for the pupils’ educational needs.

The site, which fronted onto the Gortin Road, was a densely wooded, elevated area, so selective clearance of the woodland, followed by reduced-level excavation to a depth of six metres, was the first task.

In all, around 400 trees and 90,000m³ of excavations were removed from the site.

Great care had to be taken to retain the maximum amount of trees and shrubbery in a bid to preserve the existing ecology to enhance the new school site.

The building itself comprises a single-storey construction with a steel frame on traditional strip foundations and bases. The external

shell is a combination of rendered cavity blockwork, facing brickwork, aluminium double-glazed windows and doors, with areas of rainscreen cladding.

The roof is timber-joisted, plywood decked, with Sika-Trocal coverings, and incorporating VELUX remote-controlled modular skylights.

TIGHT SCHEDULE One of the main challenges on the Arvalee project was the timescale allowed for the project. Following the fire which destroyed the original Arvalee School in September 2012, the Western Education and Library Board moved quickly to reinstate the school within temporary accommodation on the existing school site. The preferred solution was to build the new Arvalee School at Lisanelly Campus ahead of schedule to minimise the school’s stay in temporary accommodation.

“A tremendous collaborative approach to the job was key to its successful outcome.”

14 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

“The school was built to a tight schedule, but everyone put in a 100% effort to make sure it all happened,” said Woodvale Construction’s Aidan McGale, who was Contract Manager on the Arvalee school build. “A special mention must go to the school principal, Jonathan Gray, whose ‘hands-on’ approach and cooperation throughout the contract was invaluable.”

BENCHMARK The school incorporates many special features, specific to its pupils’ needs.

“These include sensory therapy rooms and courtyards; hygiene and hoisting facilities; dedicated teaching areas for art, technology, design and home economics; and a woodland walk through the remaining copse, which includes a ‘bug hotel’ built by the pupils with assistance from Woodvale’s joiners.

The design layout totals almost 5,000m² and consists of a central spine with four dedicated offshoot ‘pods’ designed to maximise the potential in children of various ages.

The youngest children spend their time in the ‘Explore’ hub, an area which aims to support the learning of Key Stage One pupils. The facilities include a soft-play area, a sensory room and an interactive screen.

‘Aspire’ caters for Key Stage Two children and feels like a youth-club, with game stations and pool tables for the pupils to enjoy.

The pupils at Key Stage Three level and older are based in the ‘Perform’ hub, an area designed to allow the children to express themselves, complete with recording studio.

‘Create’ meets the needs of Key Stage Four pupils, such as the teaching of essential lifeskills in Home Economic classes.

“Internal finishes were specified to the highest standard and, in order to achieve these benchmarks, Woodvale’s subcontractors were carefully chosen from established sources,” said Aidan.

“During the course of the contract, two Considerate Constructors audits took place, resulting in scores of 41 and 42 out of 50.

This was also a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ project, the highest ranking achievable.

“A tremendous collaborative approach to the job was key to its successful outcome and as well as thanking all the other subcontractors, I would also like to acknowledge the invaluable of input of our own team William Hetherington, Site Manager; Shane McCullagh, Site Foreman; and Pauric Kelly, Quantity Surveyor.

“Feedback to date on the project has

been very complimentary, and Woodvale would like to believe that we have set a high standard for the construction of the remainder of the Strule Campus development.”

The Strule Shared Education Campus will have five post-primary schools based on the 125-acre site to cater for the needs of more than 4,000 pupils and is expected to open in 2020.

Project team…

Project: Arvalee School and Resource Centre Client: DENI-Education Authority Western Region Value: £8.25million Project Architect: Isherwood & Ellis Main Contractor: Woodvale Construction Co - Lowry Building & Civil Engineering (JV) Quantity Surveyor: Moore MacDonald & Partners Mechanical Contractor: Scott & Ewing Electrical Contractor: GR White & Son

Woodvale Construction Co, 59 Crevenagh Road, Omagh, BT79 0EX T: 028 8224 2622 – E: info@woodvaleconstruction.co.uk www.woodvaleconstruction.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 15

PROJECT PROFILE

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

PLASTERWORK

OMAGH PLASTERER DELIGHTED TO OFFER SERVICES ON LOCAL SCHOOL BUILD…

Smooth service from Maguire Plastering

O

magh-based company, Maguire Plastering, carried out all the internal and external plastering on at Arvalee School and Resource Centre.

“It was a big contract for us – we plastered some 8,000sqm of surface area in total, both inside and out,” said Conor Maguire, who heads up the business. “We have a team of 10 plasterers and can call on more subbies, as necessary, in order to ensure we complete jobs on time, but for this one we only needed one additional plasterer and managed to complete the contract ahead of schedule. We go in early and we get out early – that’s our motto.”

On the outside of the building, Conor and his team applied Weber coloured render.

The world’s leading industrial mortar manufacturer, Weber offers a complete range of solutions developed using advanced formulation technology to meet the highest technical requirements.

“It provides a high-quality finish for new

MAGUIRE PLASTERING

16 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

build projects with a durable weatherresistant surface. We use it frequently,” added Conor. “On the inside, the plasterwork was traditional sand and cement skimming and was pretty straightforward.”

Enjoying a long-standing relationship with main contractor, Woodvale Construction, Conor Maguire has been involved with the company on a number of prestigious projects, including work at Queen’s University, Belfast; Carrybridge RNLI station in County Fermanagh; Brooke Park Leisure Centre in L’Derry; and remedial work on the Colaiste Feirste school building in Belfast, as well as private houses.

“Woodvale are a very good company to work with, and it was particularly satisfying to have partnered with them on the Arvalee contract – two local companies providing their services on such a worthwhile local school project,” said Conor.

Established by Conor Maguire in 1997, Maguire Plastering is well-known in the

County Tyrone area as a business that has been built on a reputation for quality work.

“We cover all aspects of plastering in both commercial and private markets across Northern Ireland, and have carried out a lot of work in schools,” said Conor, who had over 10 years’ industry experience before deciding to start up his own business. “We pride ourselves on being easy to work with and our aim is to carry out the job quickly and efficiently, providing a hassle-free service to allow other trades to get on with their work.”

“We pride ourselves on being easy to work with, and our aim is to carry out the job quickly and efficiently.”

Maguire Plastering, 69A Kildrum Road, Dromore, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT78 3EQ T: 028 8289 7778 or Mob: 0788 060 0899 E: maguireplasteringltd@btinternet.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

RAILINGS AND GATES

CLERK FENCING GOES THE EXTRA MILE TO PRODUCE HIGH-SPEC, BESPOKE RAILINGS AND GATES AT NEW SCHOOL BUILD PROJECT…

Clerk Fencing rises to the challenge

C

ontinually raising the bar on quality with the installation on every project, Clerk Fencing excelled itself again with its work at Arvalee School and Resource Centre. The company fabricated and installed in excess of 500m of high specification railings to a bespoke, project-specific design, using heavy section steel. This required the installation of new machinery in the fabrication workshop, which in turn has increased the fabrication capabilities.

“The railings were particularly high specification to represent a theme which incorporated elements of the local area,” said Darren James, Commercial Director. “Combined with the railings were architectural grade Corten Steel panels.

These panels featured laser cut lettering and also had stainless steel lettering attached, to reflect the school ethos and branding. The finish of these panels, or patina, will develop over time to a rusted

effect that is aesthetically impressive but also acts as a protective coating. This is the same material as used in the ‘Angel of the North’ sculpture.

“All this, along with the patterns of the railing design, proved a real test for our fabrication team but they were able to rise to the challenge and deliver a bespoke installation on time and within budget. This, combined with our in-house powder coating facility proves our capability for high spec specialist projects.

“We also supplied gates to the scheme, including cantilever automated sliding gates at the school entrance, which we helped to specify,” continued Darren. “Overall, this was probably one of the most complex projects we have completed.”

At its fabrication plant in Rostrevor, Co Down, the company’s professional team work with both residential household and large commercial projects, beginning with identifying the customer requirements,

through product design to manufacture, coating and installation.

“We manufacture many bespoke posts and gates to complement the fencing systems we install,” said Darren. “We hold a large variety of palisade and mesh fencing systems in-house, and are backed up by our supply chain partners to ensure efficient turnaround of materials. As a truly independent company, we believe we have access to the largest range of fencing products available in the UK and Ireland, particularly ‘Secured by Design’ accredited fencing system.”

Working throughout the UK and Ireland, recent projects locally have included Woodlands Playing Fields and Victoria College in Belfast; Applegreen, Lisburn; St Clare’s Abbey and St Joseph’s, Newry; and Diageo, Kilkenny. Projects completed in the UK include, Meteor Park, Christchurch; Premier Inn, Farnham; and Port Glasgow Retail Park.

Clerk Fencing Ltd, 134 Kilbroney Road, Rostrevor, Co Down, BT34 3BW T: 028 4173 9776 - E: info@clerkfencing.com www.clerkfencing.com

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

MODULAR SKYLIGHTS

VELUX MODULAR SKYLIGHTS PROVIDE BENEFITS OF INCREASED DAYLIGHT, ALLOWING CHILDREN AND STAFF TO ENJOY THE ENVIRONMENT AND A FEELING OF EXTRA SPACE...

VELUX lights the way

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ELUX supplied a total of 82 Modular Skylights, a mix of both longlights and wall-mounted longlights, to the Arvalee school project.

“Bringing daylight into a school environment is so important,” said Business Development Manager, Lisa Rafferty-Gracey. “Many studies confirm that daylight improves performance in the school environment and, of course, the biggest benefit of daylight is to our health. This is obviously very important in schools.

The fact that the school had been operating from temporary premises, as a result of a fire to the original school building, meant that time was of the essence in the Arvalee project, with both staff and pupils keen to move into their purpose-built new school as quickly as possible.

“VELUX Modular Skylights were an ideal solution due to their modularity,” explained Lisa. “The modules are fully factory assembled, resulting in minimum

on-site work and a very fast installation for the contractor, closing the building to the elements as soon as possible. “Using daylight helps reduce CO2 emissions by reducing the amount of electricity required to light spaces with electric lighting. The lights look amazing from the inside, with a clean, slim, design and excellent technical performance.”

EVOLUTION VELUX Modular Skylights mark a shift in skylight evolution. The entire range of fully prefabricated skylights offers all the benefits of a modular system, while maintaining an elegant design and excellent energy performance. VELUX Modular Skylights can be used in many building types, including offices, public buildings and educational buildings.

As the skylights are 100% prefabricated, installation is smooth and easy for building contractors, saving installation time on site.

From glass quality to motor power, speed and

easy operation, the skylights are designed to work as a single system from the moment they are made.

Traditionally, skylights have needed to be designed, built and installed with custom components according to each specific building design. However, with a modular system, all essential components are created, tested and integrated in a controlled environment and pre-fitted prior to delivery.

From an architectural point of view this simplified design process means easy specification and trouble-free installation in all weather conditions. As it’s essentially a ‘plug and play’ installation, time and energy is also saved on site thanks to more efficient delivery and the ability to seal buildings quickly and safely.

The VELUX product range includes roof windows and modular skylights, as well as interior blinds and sun screenings, roller shutters, installation solutions and intelligent home controls.

VELUX Company Ltd, Woodside Way, Glenrothes, Fife, Scotland, KY7 4ND T: 01592 778 916 – E: vms@velux.co.uk www.velux.co.uk/modularskylights

18 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

OUTDOOR PLAY EQUIPMENT

FOCUSED APPROACH FROM ALLPLAY ENSURES THAT APPROPRIATE PLAY NEEDS ARE CATERED FOR AT ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE…

Playground design is child’s play for Danielle

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he building of the new Arvalee School and Resource Centre provided the opportunity to create brand-new play areas for the children, tailor-made to their various needs.

School principal, Jonathan Gray, collaborated closely with Ballynahinch-based company, Allplay, to create an exciting new environment for pupils of all ages. An established, dynamic company working throughout Ireland and the UK, Allplay has been designing and installing playgrounds since 1996, and is now a recognised expert in delivering innovative play spaces.

For Playground Design Consultant, Danielle Hammond, Arvalee was her favourite - and biggest - project to date.

“Jonathan had a strong vision of what he wanted, and I was able to turn that into reality, sourcing the right products and creating fantastic new play areas designed around the needs of the children,” she said.

“It was a very bespoke project and the main

manufacturer we used was an American company called Playworld, which designs products with disabilities in mind, testing and modifying the various items to suit their customers’ needs.”

As a result, the children at Arvalee have benefited from bespoke equipment such as double slides, which enable the carer to go down a parallel slide with the child; apparatus which helps to develop movement; and balancing tracks with extra support.

“We also supplied three Cozy Cocoons, which look like pods, and have been specially designed with autistic pupils in mind,” said Danielle.

In line with the school principal’s ideas, the play spaces at Arvalee have been cleverly zoned into different themed areas - a garden village for nursery age children; a nauticalthemed area with a boat for older children; and a space-themed zone for teenagers, complete with rocket. In addition, a lowstimulant area has been created for pupils

who benefit from a more calming type of environment.

“Allplay has a lot of experience in the special schools sector. Other large projects in this field have been at Hill Croft in Newtownabbey; Fleming Fulton, Belfast; and Tor Bank, Dundonald,” explained Danielle.

“Working on the Arvalee project meant that I was at the old school quite often for meetings with the principal. It was plain to see that the existing playground facilities there were not really catering for the pupils’ needs, and they weren’t really using the playground. Since moving into the new school, the principal has told us that social integration is much better at the new play spaces and overall the pupils seem calmer.

“The Arvalee project was very rewarding to do – it was also great fun and really creative.

The work went smoothly too. Contracts Manager, Aidan McGale, and the whole Woodvale team were very accommodating.”

Allplay Ireland Ltd, 12 Crabtree Road, Ballynahinch, Co Down, BT24 8RH T: 028 9756 5129 – E: info@all-play.com www.all-play.com

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

AUDIO VISUAL SOLUTIONS

STATE-OF-THE-ART MULTI-TOUCH SCREENS AND DIGITAL SIGNAGE FROM IMEX EQUIP SCHOOL WITH LATEST TECHNOLOGY…

Imex passes screen test with flying colours

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ith LED technology starting to replace the older generation of interactive whiteboards in classrooms, staff and pupils at Arvalee School and Resource Centre are benefitting from the very latest multi-touch screen and digital signage technology, thanks to the team from Imex Systems in Moira.

The company supplied and fitted its latest third generation Android-based, multitouch 10 points 70” LED screens in every teaching room, and state-of-the-art Imex 84” 4K resolution LED screens into all resource areas. Imex was also responsible for ultra-modern digital signage solutions throughout the school. Eight large panels have been fitted in the building as a way of communicating messages between staff, pupils and parents.

“This technology is really high spec - 99% of existing schools simply wouldn’t have it, and even the newer schools probably wouldn’t have such top quality systems,” said Imex’s

Managing Director, Peter Niblock. “For example, every single screen has a customised motorised stand which can be raised up and down to suit the individual needs of the user, whether the person is sitting in a wheelchair or is a teacher standing in front of the class. No expense has been spared.

“It’s top-of-the-range equipment. The Imex technology will make Arvalee School the most advanced of its kind in Europe, with every classroom and resource area equipped to the highest specifications.”

DESIGNING SOLUTIONS The Imex audio visual sector is a diverse business with core strengths in fundamental areas, Designing solutions, supplying and installing, its ethos has always been ‘Never stand still and never look back’. With a vastly experienced staff, Imex specialises in supplying customers with the latest emerging solutions, from basic boardroom projection systems, to the company’s own 4K 84” multi-

touch LED screens.

Imex has invested five years developing this LED multi-touch technology. The new Imex multi-touch screens have a minimum of 10 points of touch, anti-reflective surface and Imex’s hyper-glide surface to allow for smooth use of the LED screens at all times.

Imex was founded in 1970 as an electronic test and measurement company, supplying solutions into multi-national companies, colleges and universities. In 1998, the company branched into audio visual and interactive training solutions, which opened doors to education in Ireland, allowing Imex to grow and specialise in the design, provision and implementation of interactive teaching technology.

In addition to distributing products from leading manufacturers, Imex also searches for innovative products, while ensuring customers get industry-standard equipment (ISO 9001 compliant) with world-class service and support.

IMEX Systems Ltd, 34 Old Kilmore Road, Moira, Co Armagh, BT67 0LZ T: 028 9261 9233 - E: sales@imex.co.uk www.imex.co.uk

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR

CO-ORDINATION AND COLLABORATION WITH THE PROJECT TEAM ARE THE KEY TO SUCCESS FOR ONE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S LEADING MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS…

Education excellence from Scott & Ewing

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ith vast experience in education projects, Scott & Ewing Ltd again produced a high specification finish to meet the specific requirements of the new Arvalee School and Resource Centre.

The impressive new school has utilised the health and safety benefits of underfloor heating as the main heating source, powered by oil-fired Viessmann Vitoplex boilers housed in the main plant room.

Raymond Scott, Contracts Manager at Scott & Ewing Ltd, said the high level of co-ordination on the nine-month project ensured it ran smoothly.

“We have a lot of experience of working on schools but as this is a special needs school we had a lot of specific requirements to meet,” he said. “That is why the regular meetings with the project team, including

the architect, main contractor and client, were so important. We also again enjoyed a strong working relationship with the M&E consultant, Caldwell Consulting, which helped to meet the expectations set for this project.

“The school has been completed to a very high standard, and our mechanical specification reflects that. We are delighted to have played our part in such an important project in our home town.”

Established in 1969, Scott & Ewing Ltd has gained a strong reputation as one of Northern Ireland’s leading industrial heating and plumbing companies. This reputation is built on the company’s expertise and involvement in many leading construction projects throughout Northern Ireland.

While the company is over 45 years old, Scott & Ewing Ltd retains a commitment

to utilising the latest technology and innovations combined with old-fashioned service.

Raymond added, “At the beginning of each project, our team meetings with the client bring together a vast amount of experience and professionalism. Our attention to quality and detail is winning us not only large scale projects but also the continued respect of the building services industry.”

This is complemented by regular training for all staff to ensure they remain up-to-date with changes in current regulations, sustainability innovation and management techniques.

For the last four years the company has also been running a successful programme of apprenticeships in order to maintain a continual flow of talent and to guarantee a bright future for Scott & Ewing Ltd and its clients.

Scott & Ewing Ltd, 59 Crevenagh Road, Omagh, BT79 0EX T: 028 8224 2622

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PROJECT PROFILE

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

ACOUSTIC CEILING SOLUTIONS

NEW SPECIAL SCHOOL BENEFITS FROM BESPOKE SOUND SOLUTIONS FROM ECOPHON…

VELUX Ecophon breaks the boundaries of creativity in ceiling sound solutions the way

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rvalee School and Resource Centre features the latest example of creative sound solutions from SaintGobain Ecophon.

“Special schools play to our strengths,” said Andrew Acheson, Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland. “Acoustically speaking, learning environments are demanding premises, and for children and young people with special needs it is even more important to get the acoustics right.

“On this project we worked closely with the architect and the main contractor, Woodvale Construction. At the behest of the school, our design office came up with a bespoke design for the ceiling panels leading into the communal hub breakout areas.

“We used 14 Solo Freedom panels and changed the shape from the standard rectangular panels into leaf shapes, which were then painted green to tie in with an ongoing nature theme in parts of the building. It was a one-off design and has

www.ecophon.com/uk

22 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

resulted in a very unique feature, which at the same time provides a high-performance sound solution suitable for an educational environment,” said Andrew.

Saint-Gobain Ecophon is renowned for the company’s ability to provide wide-ranging solutions, and this was showcased at Arvalee. The products used on this project included: • Solo Freedom - Provides first-class sound absorption and noise reduction, is lightweight, easy to install and gives the ceiling a whole new aesthetic dimension.

Ecophon Solo Freedom allows customers to create their own shape, which can then be designed by Ecophon for a bespoke product.

• Gedina - Ecophon’s Gedina range was used in classrooms and corridors, comprising a mixture of 12x6 tiles for the corridors and 6x6 tiles for the classrooms. It

was also used along with Solo Freedom in the communal areas.

• Super G - Known for its ability to withstand rough conditions, Ecophon’s Super G was used for the main hall of the school.

• Hygiene - Performance, Clinic and Meditec from Ecophon’s Hygiene product range were used in the kitchen, servery, toilets and changing areas.

“The Ecophon team worked closely with the architect and the ceiling contractor, Convery Ceilings, a skilled installer of Ecophon products to ensure that the job was delivered on time and within budget, including the made-to-order specials. The lead time on the Solo Freedom was tight to keep within the project plan but it was a challenge we were able to rise to,” said Andrew.

Alan Crampton, Regional Manager Ireland, Scotland and North of England T: 012 5685 0977 M: 07979 703 421 – E: alan.crampton@ecophon.co.uk Andrew Acheson, Area Sales Manager NI T: 07717 538 983 - E: andrew.acheson@ecophon.co.uk Siobhan McGuinness, Area Sales Manager RoI T: 00353 87 9189149 – E: siobhan.mcguinness@ecophon.ie

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

CEILING LIFT SYSTEMS ArjoHuntleigh provides welcome lift to school pupils

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ith some pupils at Arvalee School having mobility needs, specialist company, ArjoHuntleigh (Ireland) Ltd supplied and installed 20 ceiling lift systems in areas such as classrooms and bathrooms, plus a number of bathing systems.

“The ceiling lift is part of ArjoHuntleigh’s ever-evolving Maxi Sky range that further improves the comfort for the user during a transfer, and also provides a more efficient and safe working environment for the operator,” said Nigel Thompson, Patient Handling Specialist at ArjoHuntleigh (Ireland) Ltd. “We manufacture, supply, install, commission and train staff for a range of different clients,

from single products for home-owners to larger projects for schools and hospitals – we recently completed an order to supply and install 100 hoists at the Ulster Hospital.

“Arvalee Special school is another success story for us in terms of what we’re capable of – we excel at managing high-volume products where there’s a demand to put in different systems. At Arvalee for example, we were able to set up a three-way system in one of the areas, where a hoist was required to service two classrooms at either end of the space with a bathroom in the middle.

It was quite a complex system but we’ve got an extensive range of products and the expertise of a global company that is recognised as a leader within the industry.”

ArjoHuntleigh (Ireland) Ltd, 19 Heron Road, Belfast, BT3 9LE T: 028 9050 2000 – E: belfast@arjohuntleigh.com www.arjohuntleigh.co.uk

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

CIVILS PACKAGE

Pride in the job by P&M Excavations

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ith a reputation for meeting and exceeding clients’ expectations, P&M Excavations carried out the civils package at Arvalee School ahead of schedule.

The job included a drainage system, with excavations at depths of up to 6m; a rainwater harvesting system; 1,000m³ storm attenuation system; roads, car park and playground construction; and the installation of utility services (including a large underground cable tunnel).

“It was a good project overall, and the first time we had worked with the main contractor, Woodvale Construction,” said Managing Director, Martin Dobbs. “In fact, it went so well that we are already working with Woodvale again on another major

school contract.”

With valuable experience built up over the years, P&M Excavations has grown from strength to strength and has gained the experience and knowledge to develop and provide a range of services. These have included involvement in many of the recent high-profile construction sites throughout Ireland.

“We are committed to providing an efficient, professional, safe and costeffective service, and firmly believe in early participation in a project,” said Martin. “This enables us to pre-empt and solve potential problems and constraints, and so eliminate the elements that can often lead to wasted time, cost, effort and conflict.”

P&M Excavations, 75 Mullanmore Road, Carrickmore, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT79 9LB T: 028 8076 1596 – E: martin@pandmexcavations.com pandmexcavations.com

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

STRUCTURAL STEEL FABRICATION

Steeled for success

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ith over 30 years’ structural detailing experience across a variety of project types and industries, O’Hare Steel has been involved with many projects throughout Ireland and the UK. At Arvalee School, the company was responsible for the design and erection of the structural steel fabrication of the new building.

“We use the latest CAD technology to ensure that our fabrication drawings are accurately prepared in order to minimise onsite issues, and because of that our work at Arvalee went smoothly,” said Director, Kieran O’Hare. “In addition to our design team’s vast experience, they all possess practical, hands-on experience of steel fabrication and

erection onThe steel structure for site. Combined Arvalee School. with their knowledge of the latest computer-aided design software, such as Tekla and Strucad, the team at O’Hare Steel can ensure that all projects are fully designed in line with the project structural engineer’s details, and delivered on time and within budget.

“From design through to installation we operate in a just-in-time (JIT) system, manufacturing in sectional phases to our clients’ requirements,” continued Kieran. “By using this system to suit main contractors’ site programmes we can ensure that the end-user benefits from a competitive procurement process, minimising waste and time delays.”

O’Hare Steel, 115 Newry Road, Mayobridge, Newry, Co Down, BT34 2JF T: 028 3085 1637 - E: info@oharesteel.com www.oharesteel.com

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER

P.McDermott has it covered

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s a local company, based near the centre of Omagh for over 35 years, builders’ supplier, P.McDermott & Sons was ideally placed to provide a quick and efficient service to the teams working at Arvalee School and Resource Centre, located on the outskirts of the town.

During the months of construction, the company provided a wide range of materials, including all structural timbers, MDF mouldings, general hardware, sewer materials, manhole covers, rendering materials, insulation, geotextiles, plasterboard and cement.

“We can supply most builders’ needs,” said Adrian McCanny. “P.McDermott and Sons is noted for its high-quality delivery and service.

If we do not have a customer’s requirements

P.McDermott & Sons Limited, 11 Sedan Avenue, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT79 7AQ T: 028 8224 2066 – E: info@pmcdermottsomagh.com www.pmcdermottsomagh.com

24 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

in stock then we can usually obtain the goods and deliver them promptly and at the right price.

“Supplying the Arvalee school project couldn’t have been more handy for us – we were such a short distance away that whether the materials were collected from us directly or we delivered them on site, the process couldn‘t have been quicker. Our staff are all very knowledgeable about our product range and can offer sound advice and information to customers unsure about what is the best choice for their particular needs.”

“Our staff are all very knowledgeable about our product range and can offer sound advice.”

P McDermott & Sons Ltd FOLLOW US ON:

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ARVALEE SPECIAL SCHOOL, OMAGH

FITTED FURNITURE

Full marks to Forbes

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ith a well established reputation as a specialist provider of furniture and fittings in the education sector, and special schools in particular, Forbes Furniture Group was easily able meet the Arvalee Special School project brief.

“We provided a service that was individually tailored to the school’s needs, making and supplying fitted furniture throughout the classrooms, the reception counters, large work stations, and toilet cubicles and IPS panels, as well as shelving for stores etc,” said Brian Forbes, Director. “The contract also entailed making a bespoke ‘tree’ which makes an eye-catching feature, designed in conjunction with the leaf shaped Ecophon acoustic panels suspended from the ceiling above.

“We do enjoy this kind of project – it’s more creative, and fun to use lots of bold, contrasting colours which are chosen in certain situations to help stimulate the children. We liaised closely with the architect, Isherwood & Ellis to provide designs and drawings based on their ideas and, with our own experience, were able to advise on what could and couldn’t be done. We’ve been involved in a number of special schools, such as Sandelford in Coleraine, Ceara School, Lurgan, and Roddensvale in Larne, so we have built up a good expertise in this area.”

“We provided a service that was individually tailored to the school’s needs.”

Forbes Furniture Group, 137 Mullinahoe Road, Ardboe, Dungannon, Co Tyrone, BT71 5AX T: 028 8673 7348 – E: info@forbesfurnituregroup.com www.forbesfurnituregroup.com

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

FIRE PROTECTION SOLUTIONS Top marks for Fire-Protec’s efficient service

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ffering expert passive fire protection to the construction industry across the UK and Ireland, Fire-Protec Ireland Ltd works with many of the top contactors, and was delighted to partner with Woodvale Construction on the Arvalee Special school project.

“We carried out the intumescent painting to the structural steelwork throughout the building,” said Director, Tim McGarry.

“Our team offers an efficient and reliable service and were able to work to the tight time frame on this project to facilitate other trades.

“Intumescent coatings form an integral component of structural fire protection in a building, which is designed to contain

fires or slow their spread, saving lives and limiting damage to property. We take this responsibility very seriously and while we can work swiftly to complete on schedule, we make sure that the job is done right.

“Fire Protec has a proven track record for finding the correct solution for every client’s passive fire protection,” continued Tim. “Our portfolio covers a wide range of projects across the island of Ireland, from Belfast to Dublin, including work at George Best Belfast City Airport and Dublin City University.”

Services provided include intumescent coatings to steelworks 30 to 120min; fire-stopping to service penetrations; and industrial painting (steel frames walls and floors).

Fire-Protec Ireland Ltd, Unit 5, The Millennium Centre, Lough Road, Loughgiel, Ballymena, BT44 9JN T: 078 5052 6741 - E: info@fireprotec.co.uk fireprotec.co.uk

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

WINDOWS DOORS AND CURTAIN WALLING

Cutting-edge technology from OAS

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t Arvalee School and Resource Centre, Omagh Aluminium Systems (OAS) supplied the latest advancements available on the market in thermally broken windows, doors and curtain walling, along with solar control and heat retentive glass.

“We have a good working relationship with Woodvale Construction which has developed over the last number of years on various similar projects,” said Ciaran McMonagle, OAS Operations Manager.

“Using our own in-house design facilities, we were able to meet the high standards of product requirement from the client, architect and builder.”

Omagh Aluminium Systems was established in 2000 by Eunan Loughran to meet growing

demand for more environmentally-friendly aluminium/recyclable products. From an original staff of five employees, the company has rapidly expanded and now has a full-time staff of over 40, while also employing sub-contractors.

OAS provides a wide range of products and services, including façade systems, aluminium curtain walling, shop fronts and windows, across the UK and Ireland.

“Serving both the commercial and private sectors, we have carried out a wide variety of projects, ranging from domestic homes, schools and churches to industrial buildings and high-rise office blocks, all of which utilise cutting-edge technology and require high levels of customer service from inception to completion,” said Ciaran.

Omagh Aluminium Systems Ltd, Gortrush Industrial Estate, Omagh, BT78 5EJ T: 028 8224 6871 – E: info@oasltd.net www.oasltd.net

ARVALEE SPECIAL SCHOOL, OMAGH

WATER ATTENUATION Complete water management solutions from Hydro WMS

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ydro WMS was asked by Woodvale Construction to review the drainage design for Arvalee School, as the site presented certain challenges.

The main challenges were designing a 1,050m³ irregular shaped attenuation tank with a deep burial depth. Working with Woodvale Construction and the Design Consultant, Taylor & Boyd, Hydro WMS value engineered the original design to combine standard and high-strength Polystorm units to ensure that the tank was structurally suitable and cost-effective. The tanks were fully welded with impermeable membrane and the work warranted for 30 years.

“The tank at Arvalee was completed in only

four days due to the support received from Woodvale Construction,” said Hydro WMS Director, Brian Byrne.

“Our integrated approach to SuDS covers all aspects, from site assessments, design, project management and installation.

We have access to a wide range of complimentary products and services, allowing us to add genuine value to any project.” said Brian.

“We have access to a wide range of complimentary products and services, allowing us to add genuine value to any project.”

Hydro Water Management Solutions Ltd, Bracondale House, 141 Buxton Rd, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 6EQ T: 0161 456 3476 - E: info@hydro-wms.co.uk www.hydro-wms.co.uk

26 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

BRICKS AND CLADDING SUPPLIER JP Corry meets exact specification brief

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P Corry again proved the company is much more than just a builders’ merchant by delivering specialist exterior solutions.

The company worked closely with the architect and main contractor to find the best possible solutions for the brick and cladding of the new Arvalee School and Resource Centre.

JP Corry’s Specialist Sales Manager, Chris McComb, explained, “We were set a specific brief on this project and put forward a range of options. In the end, they opted for the Engels Oranjereed brick range and the Trespa Meteon cladding range, which we then arranged to have delivered directly on site.”

Chris added, “We not only have an extensive product range but customers also recognise that our products are from reputable

manufacturers, so quality is guaranteed.

We have a lot of experience of working on projects such as this and are well positioned to find the right balance between the aesthetic focus of the architect and the installation requirements of the contractor.”

With 16 branches throughout Northern Ireland, JP Corry prides itself on supplying everything from core building essentials right through to the latest product innovations. A strong reputation for high quality products and service has enabled the company to develop successfully into one of Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants.

The company recently opened its 16th branch in the heart of Andersonstown and, along with it, increased its service in Belfast.

JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - F: 028 9023 2123 Visit www.jpcorry.com to find your nearest branch

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

ROOFING

Conwell achieves top marks

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trabane-based Conwell Roofing Contracts Ltd supplied and fitted a single-ply Sika-Trocal flat roof membrane on the new Arvalee school build.

Suitable for a wide range of applications, including new build, refurbishment and green roof specifications, Sika-Trocal fully plasticised PVC membranes are specifically formulated and manufactured on computercontrolled calendering machines, using only ingredients of the best quality to ensure the highest standards for products of this type.

“The spec on this job was above and beyond the normal,” said Stephen Conwell, Director. “Sika-Trocal S is an unreinforced PVC roof waterproofing membrane, available in two thicknesses, and for Arvalee it was the thicker 2mm option

that was specified, to ensure a longer life span. As part of our work we welded a standing seam to the rolls to provide a more aesthetically pleasing finish. The whole building is a showpiece, setting the standard for the other school buildings which will be built here in the future, and we were delighted to work with Woodvale Construction on this job. They’re a great company, and we never have any issues when we work with them.”

Established in 1968 by Edward Conwell Snr, Conwell Roofing Contracts Ltd is a familyrun business which Edward now shares with his sons Stephen and Edward Jnr. The company specialises in commercial and domestic roofing and cladding, working on projects across the UK and Ireland.

Conwell Roofing Contracts Ltd, 32 Peacock Road, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 9NW T: 028 8165 8372 – E: info@conwellroofing.com www.conwellroofing.com

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ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

SITE CLEARANCE AND LANDSCAPING GB Landscapes grows reputation with latest high-profile scheme

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andscaping played an important role in the BREEAM-rated Arvalee school build, and GB Landscapes was tasked with delivering excellence in this part of the project.

“It was a big job on a tight schedule, but our dedicated team were more than capable of meeting the challenge,” said Gary Baird, Director. “It was a very overgrown site with many mature trees that had to be cleared in a short timescale. This was not an easy task under the tight three-week timescale, however, our specialised team met the challenge. This was imperative as building works were commencing for the new school to be built, thus enabling other trades to

meet their deadlines.

“Upon completion of building works, our hard landscaping team were on-site to complete paving and groundworks. The soft landscaping team quickly followed, to plant 300 semi-mature trees, instant hedging, and 5,000 plants, and to lay bark mulch.

“We were the first there, and the last to leave, although the whole process for us actually started well before we got on site, as we had to grow and source many types of specified plants,” reflected Gary.

“This was a high-profile scheme to which we had a good design brief from the landscape architect at MWA Partnership Ltd, and we are very proud of the work we carried out.”

GB Landscapes (NI) Ltd, 9A Learmore Road, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7RX T: 077 1134 3182 - E: baird485@btinternet.com

ARVALEE SPECIAL SCHOOL, OMAGH

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT Excellent job by Stephens Catering Equipment

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s one of Ireland’s largest and longest established catering and food service equipment companies, Stephens Catering Equipment was well placed to help advise on, and supply, the quality kitchen equipment required at Arvalee School.

“Our reputation and market-leading position is based on integrity, professionalism, expertise, customer understanding, product quality and service,” said Director, Paul Caves.

“The kitchen is a high-energy user in both electric and gas fuel, so the Arvalee contract had a quality specification, which undoubtedly helped towards the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. All the cooking and dining facilities were designed with the latest energy and labour saving equipment in mind.”

The Arvalee contract included supplying a Hobart self-condensing dish and utensil

washer with steam injection rinse, which saves water, energy and detergent. The company also supplied Rational combi-ovens with internal energy-efficient sleep mode (for when they have been left on and are not in use); an energy-efficient Moffat Sahara fan for air circulation in the hot cupboard bain marie, which has automatic water inlet; Foster upright cabinets (the most energy-efficient refrigeration systems on the market, included on the Government Energy Technology List); and Falcon convection oven ranges and steamers. The kitchen extract and intake air canopy was supplied to DW172 standard, in line with P601/602 heating and ventilation industry guidelines.

“In short, we provided a total energy and labour efficient solution to satisfy BREEAM Excellent rating.”

Stephens Catering Equipment, 205 Carnalbanagh Rd, Broughshane, Ballymena, BT42 4NY T: 028 2586 1711 – E: info@stephens-catering.com - www.stephenscateringequipment.com Branches at: Broughshane • Belfast • Edinburgh • Maynooth • Donegal • Glasgow

28 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER Personalised service from Murdock’s

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nown to provide a complete service that extends well beyond simply supplying materials, Murdock Builder’s Merchants was able to provide added value to the Arvalee School project.

“We enjoy a good relationship with Woodvale Construction and worked closely with Site Manager William Hetherington to ensure that what we supplied was tailored specifically to the needs of the project,” said Sales Manager, Raymond Harkin.

“The contract revolved around the supply of a number of products to the job. Due to the size of the school it was a big order and, because of our strong industry

contacts, we were able to act as a liaison between the supplier and the architect.

The supplier flew over from England a number of times for meetings to work out the best solution for the school build requirements, and we were very much part of that whole process.

“It’s been a busy year for our Derry branch and we are looking forward to the year ahead,” continued Raymond. “There are a number of big developments in the pipeline for the construction industry – the redevelopment of Brandywell Stadium in Derry being just one of them – and Murdock Builder’s Merchants is ready and able to supply their needs.”

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Skeoge Industrial Estate, Beraghmore Rd, Skeoge, Galliagh, Derry, BT48 8SE T: 028 7135 4888 - E: derry@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com BRANCHES AT: Banbridge • Belfast (Castlereagh) • Belfast (Duncrue) • Belfast (Kennedy Way) • Derry • Dublin (Balbriggan) • Dublin (Ballymount) • Dungannon • Lisburn • Newry • Newtownards

ARVALEE SCHOOL AND RESOURCE CENTRE, OMAGH

INTERNAL GLAZING Castle Glass provides highspecification glazing solution

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astle Glass supplied and fitted all the internal glazing work at Arvalee School and Resource Centre.

“The job itself was a challenging one, in part due to the vastness of the school and the high specification of the glass and glazing requirements of the project,” said David McMahon, Company Director.

Castle Glass has worked with Woodvale Construction for 20 years, and in that period has carried out many school and commercial building projects.

“Past experience enabled us to complete the Arvalee school project within the timescale allotted, and to the satisfaction of the client,” said David. “We were

pleased to be involved in such a great project, which serves many facets of the community.”

Working with both trade and the general public, Castle Glass is an independent company, located in Castlederg. It supplies an extensive variety of products, from specialised glass to double or triple glazing.

“All of our products are manufactured using the highest quality materials in the UK and Ireland,” said David. “We carry an extensive range of high-quality stock glasses, available in a wide variety of thicknesses, and we can also source any glass to meet your exact requirements.”

Castle Glass Ltd, 1-4 Enterprise Centre, Castlederg, Tyrone, BT81 9PX T: 028 8167 4011 - E: castlegltd@aol.co.uk www.castleglassltd.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 29

NEWS

DIFFERENT APPROACH NEEDED TO ATTRACT NEW TALENT

Pictured at the event to mark a year of success for HLM is Nick Beecroft, HLM Executive Board Director, Karl Ruddle, who heads up HLM Ireland, Simon Bell, Associate Director and Associate Steven Leenon.

HLM CELEBRATES CONTINUED GROWTH ON BOARD SS NOMADIC Leading design and architecture company, HLM, marked another successful year of growth in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland with an event on board the SS Nomadic recently in Belfast’s historic Titanic Quarter.

HLM, with offices in Belfast city centre, provides architecture, landscape and urban design, interiors and environmental design to the commercial and public sectors in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, GB and internationally.

The company, which employs 13 locally, hosted guests from across the public and commercial sector to celebrate major projects it has secured and progressed in the last year. These include the Paediatric Out Patient Department (OPD)

and Urgent Care Centres as part of Dublin’s new Children’s Hospital which is Ireland’s most significant €650m healthcare investment to date, redevelopment work of Altnagelvin Area Hospital in County Londonderry and work on a new Logistics Support Centre Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS).

This year also marked the launch of two new partnerships for HLM in the key areas of food development and sustainability, leading to the introduction of HLM Fusion and HLMGreenbuild.

HLM also used the event to highlight celebrated international projects the Belfast office is supporting including those in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and across the Middle East.

For more information, visit www.hlmarchitects.com

IS YOUR HOUSE MAKING YOU SICK? A new book written by Dr Tom Woolley warns of dangerous and cancercausing materials used in buildings.

Called ‘Building Materials, Health and Indoor Air Quality: No Breathing Space’, the book looks at the impact of building materials and construction methods on the health and wellbeing of occupants. Tom Woolley is an internationally recognised expert on green and sustainable building. He was Professor of Architecture at Queen’s University Belfast from 1991 to 2007 and has taught at many other institutions around the world. He has written five previous books on green and natural building and is a pioneer of hemp-lime construction. For more information, e-mail tom.woolley@btconnect.com

30 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Graham Executive Chairman, Michael Graham, has welcomed key recommendations of the Farmer review and in particular the need to address the growing skills crisis within the industry. He also outlined how Graham Construction is developing innovative methods in its search for new talent.

He said, “Getting the right people, at the right time, is the lifeblood of any business and this is equally true for the construction industry. At Graham, our ambition is focused on attracting, developing and retaining talented, high performing people. Through the Graham Academy, we are providing opportunities for young people to learn new skills and gain national qualifications within our apprenticeship, industrial placement and graduate programmes.”

For more information, visit the website at www.grahamconstructioncareers.co.uk

KINGSPAN MAKES CLIMATE “A” LIST FOR SECOND YEAR Kingspan has been named for a second successive year on The Climate “A” List by CDP, the international not-for-profit that measures the environmental impact of companies around the world.

The only Irish listed company named on the list, Kingspan has also confirmed it’s on track to achieve its commitment of Net-Zero Energy use at its facilities by 2020, with renewable energy use across more than 90 manufacturing sites forecast to account for 57% of its consumption in 2016.

Gene Murtagh, CEO of Kingspan, said, “The climate change agenda is core to Kingspan’s vision. The building sector contributes around 30% of global annual greenhouse gas emissions and consumes up to 40% of all energy, which means our sector has a crucial role to play in helping countries hit the new targets set in last year’s Paris Agreement.”

For more information, visit www.kingspan.com or www.cdp.net

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CASE STUDY

SAINT-GOBAIN ECOPHON CREATES STRIKING ACOUSTIC ENVIRONMENT FOR STAFF AT CARTRAWLER CANTEEN IN DUNDRUM…

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Ecophon goes Solo at CarTrawler canteen

aint-Gobain Ecophon has helped to create a relaxing environment for staff in the newly-built canteen at CarTrawler’s Corporate Head Office on the outskirts of Dublin.

Renowned for its expertise in acoustic solutions across a wide range of project sectors, Saint-Gobain Ecophon supplied Solo Circles and Rectangles, mainly installed over the dining area to reduce noise levels.

CarTrawler is the world’s leading B2B travel technology platform, and recently tasked Dublin company, The Building Consultancy, to carry out the design and project management of a new 3,200sqft staff canteen for the CarTrawler offices in Dundrum, County Dublin.

Setting out to create a dynamic space where staff could recharge, re-energise and enjoy a meal together in a relaxed atmosphere, The Building Consultancy designed the new canteen to reflect CarTrawler’s innovative culture and to communicate its peoplefocused philosophy. When it came to the acoustics, it turned to Ecophon for a topclass sound solution.

Ideally, speaking and listening comfort in a canteen should be high, so that everyone, including people with hearing loss, can participate in conversations. However, canteens are high-activity areas, and highsound levels result from speech and moving around, as well as clatter from glass and plates on hard surfaces.

If left untreated, this sound will bounce off hard surfaces, creating echoes that will spread in all directions. Sound levels will increase, creating a very stressful and uncomfortable environment.

Karl O’Donovan, a Director at The Building Consultancy, explained the care they took to ensure that reverberation would not be an issue in the new canteen space.

“As with any restaurant, café or canteen area, we had concerns about the potential noise levels in the space,” he said. “Due to the amount of hard surfaces and materials from the base-built installation, we made the decision to remove the existing suspended metal ceiling tile system and expose the

Andrew Acheson, Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland T: 07717 538 983 E: andrew.acheson@ecophon.co.uk or Siobhan McGuinness, Area Sales Manager for the Republic of Ireland T: 00353 87 9189149 – E: siobhan.mcguinness@ecophon.ie

32 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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CASE STUDY

concrete slab above.”

Saint-Gobain Ecophon’s Solo Circles and Rectangles were mainly installed over the dining area to reduce noise levels.

“We specified Ecophon products for their acoustic qualities, aesthetics and ease of use,” said Karl. “We found the Ecophon team informative and proactive, while installing the Ecophon Solo Circles and Rectangles was incredibly simple.”

SOLUTION The ever trend-sensitive Saint-Gobain Ecophon Solo comes in several shapes and sizes, allowing freedom of design and the opportunity to create striking new expressions whilst also keeping up-to-speed with sustainable architectural developments.

Offering an acoustic solution, primarily when it is not possible to install a wall-towall ceiling, Saint-Gobain Ecophon Solo Circle and Rectangle options are suitable in buildings where the room volume could be maintained or as an option when TABS (Thermally Activated Building System) is selected as the cooling system.

Solo Circle and Rectangle are unframed free-hanging units with a high degree of design possibilities, both regarding colours

and suspension systems. The three different suspension systems use adjustable wire hangers, one-point fixing or adjust brackets in combination with the engineered connect absorber anchor give opportunities to create several layers and angles.

Both the Circle and Rectangle panels are manufactured from high-density glass wool, with Akutex FT surface on both sides, and edges that are straight cut and painted.

The CarTrawler canteen is now up and running, and making the right impression.

“We are delighted with the final result, and the various elements in the project came together in a harmonious way,” said Karl.

The project …

CARTRAWLER CANTEEN, DUNDRUM, DUBLIN Designer/Project Manager: Karl O’Donovan, The Building Consultancy Main Contractor: All Systems Commercial Fitouts Project Size: 300sqm Saint-Gobain Ecophon Products: Solo Rectangles and Circles

Alan Crampton, Regional Manager Ireland, Scotland and North of England T: 012 5685 0977 – M: 07979 703 421 – E: alan.crampton@ecophon.co.uk www.ecophon.com/uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 33

MULTI-COMFORT PAVILION DESIGN COMPETITION

The winning design in the RSUA & JP Corry Multi-Comfort Pavilion Design Competition 2016 for Young Architects was by Aileen McConaghie for her pavilion design at Botanic Gardens, Belfast.

INAUGURAL COMPETITION GIVES YOUNG ARCHITECTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE THEIR CREATIVITY AND TALENT…

First winner of the RSUA and JP Corry Multi-Comfort Pavilion Design Competition

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roadcaster and designer, Kevin McCloud, was in attendance as JP Corry and the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) announced the winner of the inaugural Multi-Comfort Pavilion Design Competition event.

The competition was established to provide local architects under the age of 40 with an opportunity to showcase their creativity and talent.

Aileen McConaghie’s pavilion design of the Botanic Gardens in Belfast stole the show after impressing judges with her innovative idea. Her prize was a luxury weekend away to London for two, a West End show and a visit to the Saint-Gobain Innovation Centre.

The other finalists were Hayden Allen, Adam Joyce, Jonathan Gannon and Tara McCloskey.

Entrants were invited to design a unique,

semi-permanent pavilion for Belfast, designed around the theme of ‘comfort’, and to be situated in a busy public place in Belfast, for example, Belfast City Hall, Botanic Gardens or Titanic Quarter. The architects had to respond to Saint-Gobain’s Multi-Comfort building concept – which aims to provide lowenergy structures with high levels of thermal comfort, excellent acoustics, visual comfort and superb indoor air quality.

JP Corry Managing Director, Ciaran McConnell, said, “With buildings accounting for 40% of carbon dioxide emissions in Ireland and the UK, the challenge for architects was to create a low energy structure that provided an attractive, inspiring and joyful environment; to create a place where people want to be.

“The Saint-Gobain Multi-Comfort building is a wonderful example of how these issues can be addressed, with The Pavilion Design Competition representing a unique opportunity to explore these challenges in an innovative way.”

Commenting on the competition, Ciarán Fox, Director of RSUA, added, “I wish to convey my congratulations to Aileen on her winning design. Aileen took an innovative approach in Shane Birney, Shane Birney Architects, (second left) receives the her concept, whereby instead award on behalf of Aileen McConaghie, from (from left) Richard of adapting the environment Halderthay, Saint-Gobain UK and Ireland; Paul Crowe, RSUA, and Ciaran McConnell, JP Corry. to meeting our expectations

of comfort, she suggests that we adapt ourselves to the environment.

“The Pavilion Design Competition provided local young architects with the platform to unleash their creativity and to showcase their talent. With Belfast being the only city across Ireland to have been accepted into the worldwide 100 Resilient Cities Network, we thought it would be fitting for the competition to help explore the role of the city’s built environment in addressing climate change.”

The judging panel, which consisted of Paul Crowe of Todd Architects (RSUA President); Joan McCoy of White Ink Architects (RSUA Vice-President); Stephen Moon of McGarryMoon Architects and Chris McComb of JP Corry.

RSUA President, Paul Crowe, concluded, “The competition was inspired by the annual Serpentine Pavilion in London’s Hyde Park and the success of the Yellow Pavilion in Kings Cross last year which was designed

by Belfast practice Hall McKnight as part of an international programme of events to showcase Irish design talent.

“The Multi-Comfort Pavilion Design Competition is a great example of the opportunities that the RSUA is creating for up and coming, young architects who are making a name for themselves, and we hope that next year we will be able to source sufficient funding support to enable the construction of the winning design.”

JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - Fax: (028) 9023 2123 www.jpcorry.com - 16 branches province-wide

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 35

CIOB NEWS

CIOB IN IRELAND – NORTHERN CENTRE – CELEBRATES AS HERON BROS BREAKS THE RECORD FOR MOST EMPLOYEES CONFERRED TO CIOB IN AN INTAKE...

CIOB Officers along with members who were conferred at a recent ceremony at Stormont. Included are (front row, from left) Gerard Graham MCIOB , Chair of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre; Ivan McCarthy FCIOB, Trustee of the CIOB; Patsy McGlone MLA, event sponsor; and David Little FCIOB, Chair of CIOB in Ireland’s Governing Council.

RECORD BREAKERS! H eron Bros has broken CIOB records.

Never before in Ireland have so many members from one company been conferred in the same ceremony.

Of the 26 people in line for recognition, Heron Bros had 7 of the company’s employees conferred as CIOB members at the ceremony on Saturday October 15, in The Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont Belfast, hosted by Patsy McGlone MLA. Ken Whan, Operations Director at Heron Bros, said, “We are delighted to have had so many of our employees conferred as CIOB members in one ceremony. This is a testament to the culture at Heron Bros and the great commitment of our staff.

“We encourage and support staff to continually develop and progress as professionals. By becoming Chartered Construction Managers, our employees vow to keep their job knowledge and qualifications current and up to date and commit to abide by a strict code of ethical conduct.”

Almost 100 members, guests and family

were in attendance when the total of 17 people were awarded Chartered membership and 9 members were upgraded to the title of Fellowship of the Institute.

Ivan McCarthy FCIOB, Trustee of the CIOB was the special guest. During his address he spoke about the significance of CIOB qualifications in helping to increase professional standards throughout the construction industry. He also highlighted the exciting range of professional career opportunities that are available.

David Little FCIOB, Chair of the CIOB in Ireland’s Governing Council, took the opportunity to remind the attendees that membership of the CIOB is becoming an increasingly sought-after qualification for not just individuals, but also to enable employers to demonstrate the professionalism of their staff.

Being part of the CIOB boostes both individuals and companies, as Gerard Graham MCIOB, Chair of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre, explained at the conferring ceremony.

“The CIOB is now considered the

leading professional body in construction management and leadership, with corporate members authorised to use the designatory titles of ‘Chartered Builder’ or ‘Chartered Construction Manager’.

“Both of these titles are a mark of professionalism in the field of construction management and leadership. The CIOB has assessed and continues to monitor that its members are properly qualified, competent and abide by a code of professional conduct and behaviour.”

He added, “The construction industry is moving at a very fast pace in terms of modern methods of construction, legislation and technology, so it is essential that chartered professionals keep up with changes for the benefit of the public, their employers and clients. If Continual Professional Development (CPD) is not carried out nor recorded, members run the risk of having their membership terminated.

“This latest conferring ceremony highlights how individuals and companies are working to maintain and build their knowledge and keep our industry at the cutting edge.”

For more information on the CIOB, contact Mandy Coleman on T: 00353 1 236 9851 or E: mcoleman@ciob.org.uk www.ciob.org

36 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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CIOB NEWS

ALLAN MCMULLEN, COMMITTEE MEMBER, CIOB IN IRELAND, HIGHLIGHTS THE STEPS THAT THE LATEST CHARTERED MEMBERS TOOK TO REACH CONFERRING STAGE…

Learning step by step

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s the Professional Development Consultant at Training LMS, I am delighted to be associated with Heron Bros’ professional development programme.

The process began a few years ago when Operations Director, Ken Whan, met with Training LMS to establish the various routes to professional qualification for the company’s site management and supervisory staff.

The Heron Bros team was varied in terms of experience levels and came from both academic and trade backgrounds. The company was keen to point out that this combination was very much a strength which they wished to build on during a period of significant growth.

Heron Bros’ diverse project portfolio and sectorial expertise is expanding. To pre-qualify for tenders, both in the public and private sector, they needed evidence that their management of projects from bid to completion was highly competent, professional, ethical and up-to-date with best practice, modern methods of construction and innovation.

Heron Bros’ core values are very much in line with those of the Chartered Institute of Building, so it was obvious that their status as a Chartered Building Company and their

The seven staff members from Heron Bros who were conferred pictured with Allan McMullan, Training LMS, (centre).

training partnership with the CIOB would be the perfect point of reference to take the business forward.

Training LMS carried out a review of the experience and qualifications for each member of the various site management teams.

The CIOB’s routes to full Chartered Membership (MCIOB) all require these two key criteria. Those with accredited degrees and three years’ experience of managing people, processes and technology, had fulfilled the requirements to progress to the Professional Review. To facilitate this route a series of in-house two-day workshops were held to provide guidance for candidates to complete their reports and supporting documentation. These were then reviewed and feedback provided before final drafts were submitted for assessment and recommendation for Chartered/Corporate Membership (MCIOB).

Experienced candidates who did not have the required academic exemptions - typically from trade backgrounds - joined the Chartered Membership Programme (CMP) to complete an in-house programme requiring 13 days attendance before completing an open book exam.

Successful completion of the CMP enabled these candidates to the progress to the

Professional Review.

A third route to MCIOB for recent graduates has now commenced with Heron Bros. The Professional Development Programme provides a fast track route for recently recruited personnel with CIOB accredited degrees.

To date both programmes have been 100% successful. This has been down to the joint commitment of the company and the staff who have put themselves forward.

The conferring ceremony in Stormont was firm evidence of the success of this structured approach to professional development.

Allan McMullen BSc MSc PPCIOB FCMI, is the Professional Development Consultant at Chartered Building Consultancy Training LMS. He can be contacted at 028 4176 5144, e-mail allan@traininglms.co.uk or visit www.traininglms.co.uk

THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME FOR HERON BROS WAS DELIVERED BY TRAINING LMS… T: 028 3834 8439 - e: info@traininglms.co.uk www.traininglms.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 37

RSUA ARCHITECTURE NIGHT

Kevin McCloud, pictured with RSUA President Paul Crowe and musician Duke Special at the Architecture Night where the Grand Designs presenter recieved Honourary Membership of the RSUA.

Compere Mark Simpson.

BROADCASTER AND DESIGNER RECOGNISED AT SUPERB EVENT THAT ALSO CELEBRATED THE WORK OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S BEST ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS…

Kevin McCloud honoured at RSUA Architecture Night

T

he Royal Society of Ulster Architects [RSUA] has granted wellknown broadcaster and designer, Kevin McCloud, with an honorary membership in recognition of his contribution to architecture in Northern Ireland.

Mr McCloud’s membership was awarded at the recent Architecture Night in Belfast – a superb event aimed at celebrating first-class Northern Ireland architecture, held in the recently decommissioned, former Belfast Telegraph Print Works building on Royal Avenue. Along with a showcase of local architecture, guests were treated to food, drink and live music

by Duke Special.

Commenting on the honourary RSUA membership, Kevin McCloud, said, “I am very privileged to be honoured in this way by the RSUA, having long admired the output that comes from architects in Northern Ireland every year. It’s clear to see that the province really punches above its weight in terms of architecture,

38 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

and that the profession is richly talented here.

“I am also encouraged by RSUA initiatives such as Architecture Night, to highlight the important contribution that architecture makes to culture, heritage, tourism, the economy and wider society in Northern Ireland.”

Ciarán Fox, Director of the RSUA, commented, “There are some great examples of Northern Irish architecture that are really pushing the boundaries and we celebrated that in style at this inaugural Architecture Night, which connected people who share the desire to make Northern Ireland a more attractive place.”

The Architecture Night was supported by JP Corry, Ceco, Hays, Metal Technology and AECOM and was used to highlight the very best of work by Northern Irish architecture students.

For more information on the RSUA, telephone 028 9032 3760, e-mail info@rsua.org.uk or visit www.rsua.org.uk

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RSUA ARCHITECTURE NIGHT

Building Inspiration Lecture hears how the built environment is crucial to NI’s economic future

Silver Medal winner David Magennis (centre) receives his award from Kieran McGonigle, McGonigle McGrath, (left) and Paul Crowe, RSUA President.

Bronze medal winners Callum Holgate (right) and Holly Dale are congratulated by RSUA President, Paul Crowe.

The built environment will play a crucial role in promoting sustainable economic growth and development in Northern Ireland in the coming years, according to Snøhetta – the world renowned, international architectural design practice.

Robert Greenwood, Snøhetta Partner and MD [UK, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific], made the comments at a recent public lecture that highlighted the strategic importance of architecture and the built environment to Northern Irish economy.

The ‘Building Inspiration Lecture’ was hosted by the Royal Society of Ulster Architects [RSUA] in partnership with Arup in the newly opened School of Law at Queen’s University Belfast.

Robert said that developing the built environment must continue to be at the core of Northern Ireland’s economic growth strategy if it is to increase its attractiveness as a place in which to live, work, invest and visit.

“Architects are understandably preoccupied with the final product; however, we believe that what you do is defined by how you do it,” he explained. “Process is consequential to our work and the realisation of a design vision is a process: it accumulates richness and beauty through time.

“We believe that, as designers, we plant the seeds for this growth, grounding transformations of places with clear and precise concepts that create opportunities for the public to collaborate in shaping their future. The design process is a dialogue, and when people meet, things happen.”

The public lecture featured the work of Snøhetta – the multi award-winning, internationally renowned architects behind the only cultural building on the World Trade Centre memorial site and the ongoing redevelopment of Times Square in New York City. An integrated design practice of architecture, landscape, interiors, furniture, graphic and brand design, Snøhetta has offices in eight cities including Oslo, San Francisco and New York City.

Rachel Heaney, Silver Medal Runner-Up, receives her award from Kieran McGonigle, McGonigle McGrath, (left) and Paul Crowe, RSUA President.

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 39

CTS PROJECTS – 10TH ANNIVERSARY

PROJECTS

Managing Director, Connaire McGreevy, (centre) with the staff from CTS Projects.

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR THE WARRENPOINT FACILITIES MANAGEMENT COMPANY AS NEW CONTRACTS AND A POSITIVE OUTLOOK PROVES THE PERFECT FOUNDATION TO BUILD UPON…

A decade of success for CTS Projects

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s CTS Projects celebrates the company’s 10th anniversary the focus is very much on the future, rather than the past.

In a relatively short space of time, the company has grown from a one-man operation to an award-winning industry leader.

When current Managing Director, Connaire McGreevy, established CTS Projects in August 2006 his initial focus was on the renewables market. However, the company has continued to diversify into new areas, making the most of new opportunities.

“At present, we are probably best described as a facilities management company,” explained Connaire. “We work extensively in the plumbing and heating sector and in all trades services as part of our building maintenance package.

“We also have a development division

that includes land acquisition as well as the construction of social housing and commercial projects. This has proved difficult in recent years but we’re set to start our first development in the coming months.”

This all points to positive times for the company and, if past history is anything to go by, then that will continue.

When the renewables sector started to dwindle, CTS Projects focused on building maintenance, and the award of a contract for Dungannon District Housing Association not only gave the company the early boost it needed but also started a long-term relationship with the social housing sector that remains central to its success.

The award of a similar contract in 2010 boosted the plumbing and heating side of the company and, from there, CTS Projects hasn’t looked back. In fact, unless it is to learn how to improve the company’s service,

looking back is not really something that CTS Projects does.

“We have come through a couple of recessions and there is no doubt that it has been tough but I always believed in the business and that our partnership approach would be a success,” Connaire added. “Our ethos is all about partnership and we feel we are in the ideal position to listen to landlords and customers as well as manufacturers and suppliers to find the best possible solutions.”

The company’s partnership approach is clear when you look at the 100-plus staff now employed by CTS Projects.

“I believe that any company is only as good as its staff. We’re always trying to improve every aspect of our business and much of that starts with staff training. That’s our foundation for every aspect of the business.”

Unit A Milltown East Industrial Estate, Upper Dromore Road, Warrenpoint, Newry BT34 3PN T: 028 4175 2299 www.ctsprojects.net

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CTS PROJECTS ASSOCIATES

PETER FITZPATRICK LTD LEOD QUARRIES

LEODE - HILLTOWN - NEWRY - Co. DOWN - BT34 5TJ T: +44 (0)28 4063 0690 - F: +44 (0)28 4063 1079 E: info@pfitzpatrick.com www.pfitzpatrick.com

Head Office: 028 417 54499 Belfast Office: 028 9099 4328 E: sales@afpni.com - www.afpni.com Unit 5, W.E.C. Newry Road, Warrenpoint, Co. Down, BT34 3LA

Congratulations to CTS Projects on your first 10 years!

• Managed IT Services • Sage Business Partner • PC & Laptop Repairs • iPad & iPhone Repairs • Stationery, Ink & Toner

• ASPHALT AND BITMAC • GROUND LIMESTONE (DELIVERED AND SPREAD) Wishing CTS Projects every success for the future.

Clerk Fencing are specialists in the supply and installation of all types of security fencing and gates, both for the commercial and residential markets, throughout the UK and Ireland

• IT Support & Maintenance • Server Installations

SUPPLIERS OF ALL GRADES OF STONE & AGGREGATES

Wishing CTS Projects every success for the future

| Fencing Systems | Gates & Access | | Fabricated Works | WISHING CTS PROJECTS CONTINUED SUCCESS

12 Monaghan Court, Monaghan St, Newry, BT35 6BH E: info@newrycomputercentre.co.uk T: +44 (0)28 3026 5600 www.newrycomputercentre.co.uk 134 Kilbroney Road, Rostrevor, Co Down, BT34 3BW T: 028 4173 9776 | E: info@clerkfencing.com

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CTS PROJECTS – 10TH ANNIVERSARY

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

Celebrating four new Housing Association contract wins are (from left), Andrew Lamont, Triangle Housing; Stephen Woodrow, Fold Housing Association; Connaire McGreevy, CTS Projects; Sean McGrath, Alpha Housing; and Scott Thompson, Habinteg Housing Association.

Discussing a new project on site.

CTS Projects Managing Director, Connaire McGreevy.

SUCCESS IN WINNING A NIHE CONTRACT GIVES CTS PROJECTS ADDED CONFIDENCE FOR THE FUTURE…

Perfect timing of multi-million pound 10-year contract

I

t is fitting that the award of a 10-year contract on the 10th anniversary of CTS Projects should be for all-trades.

It was a building maintenance contract for Dungannon District Housing Association that proved to be one of the key turning points in the company’s short history and this type of work remains central to the company’s success.

The Warrenpoint-based company recently won a contract worth £77.6million over a 10-year period with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. This has led to the opening of a new office in Lisburn to service the contract, which will also see the creation and safeguarding of 70 jobs.

This will double total employee figures for the second time this year, with

CTS Projects also pledging to expand its apprenticeship scheme.

The contractor is one of four companies that have been chosen by the Housing Executive to provide tenants of its 87,000 homes across Northern Ireland with a high quality repairs service that will go beyond traditional response maintenance.

This highlights the high standards that CTS Projects brings to all its building maintenance contract jobs.

“We are proud to have won this Housing Executive contract,” said Managing Director, Connaire McGreevy. “This provides us with a stable foundation for the future and that will allow us to expand with confidence.

In addition to new roles such as joiners, bricklayers, quantity surveyors and contract

Services...

CTS Projects offers the following building maintenance services: • Plumbing • Heating • Flooring • Fit-out • Renovation • Insulation • Response maintenance • Planned maintenance managers, one of the big positives is that we will now be taking on new apprentices.

“This is something that we see as vitally important to the future health of our industry.”

Unit A Milltown East Industrial Estate, Upper Dromore Road, Warrenpoint, Newry BT34 3PN T: 028 4175 2299 www.ctsprojects.net www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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CTS PROJECTS – 10TH ANNIVERSARY

HEATING SYSTEMS

IMPRESSIVE KPI RATINGS COUPLED WITH WIDE-RANGING EXPERTISE PUTS CTS PROJECTS AT THE CUTTING EDGE OF THE INDUSTRY…

Customer service is at the heart of success

C

ustomer service is at the very heart of CTS Projects and the company’s heating systems service perfectly highlights this.

The company specialises in delivering energy-efficient heating solutions to commercial and residential properties.

With a dedicated customer survey team, installation team and rapid response team, CTS Projects has an all-round service that covers every demand.

This dedication is one of the reasons why the company has an unrivalled KPI rating and the fact that CTS Projects is as proficient in oil and gas as it is with wood pellet boilers and solar thermal panel

installations is another plus point.

“From the first call through to completion we ensure that the client is looked after as quickly and efficiently as possible,” explained Connaire McGreevy, Managing Director. “In the social housing sector, everything is about the customer and, at every level, we are helping to improve someone’s life.

“Given that a lot of the customers we are looking after are frail, elderly people or young families we are providing a vital service. That is why it is important that, from that first phone call, our staff are positive and proactive.”

A regular focus on training and engagement

“We are always trying to identify better ways of working and of being proactive, rather than reactive.”

with manufacturers, clients and tenants also ensures the company remains at the cutting edge.

“We are very much focused on partnership and we see our role as being the central hub that brings all these different elements together,” Connaire added. “We try to be ahead of the curve and, particularly in the social housing sector, our works sees us working with the latest technology. This is an exciting aspect of our work and one that will hold us in good stead as we move forward.

“We are always trying to identify better ways of working and of being proactive, rather than reactive. Of course, if a boiler breaks down it is important that we have the systems in place to react quickly but, for us, it is just as important to find a way to avoid that breakdown in the first place.”

Unit A Milltown East Industrial Estate, Upper Dromore Road, Warrenpoint, Newry BT34 3PN T: 028 4175 2299 www.ctsprojects.net

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Partition and ceiling solutions

Units 5/6 Duncrue Ind Estate, Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BW T: 028 9077 7780 E: info@scsni.com

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GRINDERS

WITH MORE THAN 100 NEW FEATURES, AND 54% MORE EFFICIENT, THE DURATIQ FROM HTC IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH…

HTC launches Duratiq - a brand-new generation of floor grinders

S

wedish company HTC, which years ago developed the method of grinding floors using diamond abrasive technology, is now launching a totally newlydeveloped floor grinder - Duratiq.

The machine is available in two grinding widths, 600 and 800 millimetres. Both versions are completely new designs and are based on many years of intensive studies of customers’ future needs.

Some of the 100 new features incorporated into Duratiq are: • Newly-designed, user-firendly digital control panel and remote control that offer operators full control and easy handling.

• New grinding head, hermetically sealed and dustproof for maximum reliability.

• Compact, robust chassis design for optimal manoeuvrability, handling and simple transport.

• Enhanced AirFlow technology and Mist Cooler System that increase productivity by up to 216%, and dust collection by 100%.

• Simple-to-adjust weights, 20 different handle settings, and 74% less vibration ensure significantly improved ergonomics.

Since Duratiq has been designed from scratch by HTC’s own R&D department, no detail has been left to chance. The numerous smart features include GPS tracking, USB ports to download operating data, upload new software and charge personal equipment.

Stefan Lind, CEO of HTC, emphasises that this is the most pioneering launch in the history of the company. “HTC developed

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“This is the most pioneering launch in the history of the company.” the method for grinding concrete floors using diamond abrasive technology 29 years ago,” he said. “The step that we are now taking with the launch of Duratiq is almost as huge in the development of our business and the industry. Duratiq sets a completely new standard for productivity, reliability, operability and flexibility. I’m convinced that the industry will talk about the time before and after Duratiq in the same way that we sometimes talk about leading-edge innovations in technologies, such as mobile telephony.

“As a company, HTC’s fundamental motivating force is to always be at the forefront of development. Once again,

Duratiq is proof of HTC’s innovation for the whole industry,” concluded Stefan.

The Duratiq grinding machines have been tested for more than 5,000 hours before the launch. Because of the precise, yet extremely robust design, of every single detail, the service interval is an impressive 1,000 hours.

Thanks to a new modular structure and meticulous design detail, it is easier than ever to replace high-wear parts. For instance, it only takes about 40 minutes to replace a belt.

Another new feature for the industry is the option of configuring your Duratiq entirely to your own needs or upgrading your machine afterwards. The customer chooses the size (600 or 800 mm grinding width), electric power version, the number of grinding discs and whether to have the machine fitted with remote control. There are then a number of optional packages: water, light and GPS. Finally, the customer has the option of customising the machine with additional weights, cupholders and other accessories.

Duratiq was launched worldwide on September 7.

For further information, visit the website at www.duratiq.com

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

The 2016-2017 Concrete Society Awards Northern Ireland Region is kindly sponsored by:

WDR & RT TAGGART

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

FROM THE BEST STUDENTS TO THE LEADING PROJECTS, AN ARRAY OF WINNERS HIGHLIGHTS THE DIVERSITY WITHIN THE INDUSTRY…

Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region hosts annual awards

T

he Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region Awards 2016 produced a wide array of winners, highlighting the diversity of the sector.

Held at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Belfast, this popular annual networking event also reflected the state of the Northern Ireland construction industry, with over half of the awards handed out going to projects outside the province.

McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd was the big winner, taking home two awards, including the coveted Overall Winner prize for the company’s work on the reconstruction of Berth 1 at Teesport, Middlesbrough.

The event also helped mark the 50th anniversary of the Concrete Society and Darren McMilllan, Chairmain of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland region, feels that this year’s awards were a fitting tribute.

“In addition to McLaughlin & Harvey’s innovative solutions to deepen the berth at Teesport, we also had two wind farms,

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two bridges, a promenade improvement scheme, a hotel and apartment complex and two major sporting venues – the IFA Football Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast and Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.

“Concrete is a staple of the construction industry, so it is often overlooked. What these awards prove is the innovation and forward-thinking nature of the concrete industry and how companies in Northern Ireland continue to lead the way in a range of specialist areas.”

The event also raised over £2,000 for a local charity while also recognising the next generation with the annual awards for students. Receiving awards for the Ulster University were David Calvert and Jenna Fawcett while, for Queen’s University, awards were presented to Jacob Thompson and Samuel Glass.

For more information on the Concrete Society, visit www.concrete.org.uk and follow the link to the Northern Ireland Region.

Samuel Glass from Queen’s University (centre) is presented with a Student Award by Sonebi Mohammed, Queen’s University, (left) and Darren McMillan, Chairman of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland region.

David Calvert and Jenna Fawcett from Ulster University, Jordanstown, are presented with their Student Awards

by Brian Magee, Ulster University, (left) and Darren McMillan, Chairman of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland region (right).

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 49

CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Damien Curran, of sponsors Lafarge (far left) and Darren McMillen, Chairman, The Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region (far right) present the Overall Award to (from left) Diarmuid O’Loan, RPS; Adrian Quinn, Quinn Piling; -Martin McKeown, McLaughlin & Harvey; and Eamon Stack, Bannaher Concrete.

OVERALL WINNER

McLAUGHLIN & HARVEY LTD FOR TEESPORT BERTH 1, MIDDLESBROUGH

McLaughlin & Harvey win major award

T

he innovative solutions created to complete the impressive Teesport Berth 1 reconstruction at PD Ports in Middlesbrough have been recognised with the Overall Winner accolade at the Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region Awards.

The main contractor was McLaughin & Harvey Ltd and the designer was RPS Group, Belfast.

The team also included concrete supplier, Banagher Precast Concrete and piling subcontractor, Quinn Piling.

Teesport is a major deepwater port and one of the largest container ports in the North of England, with this redevelopment aimed at deepening the berth to allow larger ships to dock.

The £45 million project involved the design and construction of almost 900m of suspended deck quay, sequenced with the

PROJECT TEAM

demolition of the existing post-tensioned concrete structure that dated back to the 1950s, and dredging.

The project had many innovative design features which maximised the use of offsite construction while allowing the units to be placed rapidly on site to meet and exceed ambitious installation rates.

The existing deck was used as a temporary works platform, with piling carried out through holes cut in the deck. Tubular steel piles were installed with a sheet piled cut-off wall to the toe of the existing revetment using a bespoke dolly. The deck consisted of a series of precast beams and deck slabs which were overlain/infilled with in-situ concrete. Crane rails, panzer belts, fenders and general quayside furniture were also incorporated.

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Main contractor: McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd Designer: RPS Group, Belfast Concrete supplier: Banagher Precast Concrete Piling sub-contractor: Quinn Piling

McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd, 15 Trench Road, Mallusk, Newtownabbey, BT36 4TY T: 028 9034 2777 www.mclh.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Damien Curran, of sponsors Lafarge (left), pictured with (from left) Eamon Stack, Bannaher Concrete; Adrian Pollock, McLaughlin & Harvey; Martin McKeown; McLaughlin & Harvey; Adrian Quinn, Quinn Piling; and Diarmuid O’Loan, RPS.

McLAUGHLIN & HARVEY FOR RIVER GLYNN BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

WINNER

Bridge to success for McLaughlin & Harvey

I

t was a double awards success for McLaughlin & Harvey at the Concrete Society Awards with the company not only winning the Overall Award for its work on the Teesport Berth 1 project but also collected an accolade for the River Glynn bridge replacement scheme.

This project involved the design and reconstruction of a replacement three-span rail underbridge across the River Glynn outside Larne with a new two-span bridge.

This full reconstruction included piling and demolition work, all of which had to be carried to against a strict time-table. The work involved a nine-day closure of the Belfast to Larne railway line, with McLaughlin & Harvey working 24 hours a day in order to keep the project on schedule.

To meet these specific demands, a high level of offsite construction was necessary with all bridge elements pre-cast and stitched together using high strength gain concrete.

This allowed the installation process to run smoothly. The work was even carried out during a specific time of the year in order to avoid disturbing birds at the nearby Swan Island during the breeding season.

Representing an investment of £718,000 funded by the former Department for Regional Development, the Glynn River Railway Bridge replacement works have secured the long-term sustainability of the railway line. In particular, the use of reinforced concrete within the structure has improved its durability in this exposed coastal location.

PROJECT TEAM

• Main contractor: McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd • Designer: Atkins • Cat 3 design check: Design ID • Precast concrete supplier: Moore Concrete

McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd, 15 Trench Road, Mallusk, Newtownabbey, BT36 4TY T: 028 9034 2777 www.mclh.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Pictured with their award are (from left) David McCartney, Taranto, Alan McCaul, O’Hare & McGovern, Niall Woods, Taranto, Colin Michael O’Hare & McGovern, and Darren McMillan, Chairman of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region.

WINNER

TARANTO LTD FOR THE IFA NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

Taranto Ltd scores with Windsor Park

T

aranto Ltd’s complete service at the redeveloped IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park has been recognised by the judges at this year’s Concrete Society Awards.

The Tandragee-based company designed, manufactured and installed the new pre-cast terracing, stairs and vomitory wall at the stadium which officially opened this year.

The complex new stadium includes over 7,000lm of terracing units, 15 stairs wells, over 600 step units, plus other structural precast concrete units. This complete solution was delivered by the expert team at Taranto Ltd. The project has already won the Overall Award at this year’s highly prestigious Construction Excellence Awards 2016, while it has also proved a resounding success with

PROJECT TEAM

fans and players alike.

Funded by the former Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, the project involved the design, development and construction of the stadium, with the provision of three new stands (the South, East and West) alongside associated demolition, temporary works and refurbishment works to the existing North Stand.

The new stadium – which has an increased capacity of 18,600 – was designed and constructed to meet UEFA Stadium Category 4 standards, which also exerted additional pressures on companies such as Taranto.

All this was achieved as the stadium remained fully operational, with both Irish League games and European Championship Qualifiers taking place.

• Main contractor: O’Hare & McGovern • Architect: Holmes Miller (Glasgow) • Engineer: Aecom • Concrete supplier: Taranto Ltd

Taranto Ltd, Old Scarva Road, Tandragee, County Armagh, BT62 2ED T: 028 3884 1765 www.taranto.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Eamonn Sweeney, Northstone Chief Executive, (centre) is presented with the award for Kilgallioch Wind Farm by Damien Curran, of sponsors Lafarge (left) and Darren McMillen, Chairman, The Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region.

FARRANS CONSTRUCTION FOR KILGALLIOCH WIND FARM

WINNER

More success for Farrans and Kilgallioch Wind Farm

A

two-year project by Farrans Construction has been recognised at the Concrete Society Northern Ireland Regional Awards 2016.

Scottish Power’s 239MW Kilgallioch Windfarm in Scotland – which incorporates 96 wind turbines - began in June 2015, with the first turbine erected earlier this year and completion scheduled for June 2017.

The high-profile project involves 65km of road construction, huge quantities of steel reinforcement and reinforced concrete and the extraction of 1.2 million tonnes of rock from 6 on-site quarries. The site covers a large area - approximately 33km2 in Dumfries & Galloway.

Kilagallioch Windfarm has been applauded on a number of platforms

recently, including winning the Large Scale Infrastructure category at the Annual Scottish Power Supplier Awards. The project was also a finalist in the 2016 Iberdrola Supplier of the Year Awards in the ‘Supplier of Energy Related Services’ category, held in Madrid at the end of November.

Farrans continues to work on a wide portfolio of work within the renewables sector, including the £14.9million Harbunhead Wind Farm project and the £12.7million Goole Fields II. In recent months, Farrans has also signed contracts to further extend this renewables portfolio across the UK. This includes the 13 turbine Bad a Cheo Windfarm in Scotland (26.65MW), the 28 turbine Brechfa Windfarm (57.4MW) and 25 turbine Afton Windfarm in Ayrshire (50MW).

PROJECT TEAM • Main contractor: Farrans Construction • Concrete supplier: Northstone

Neil Sturdy, Farrans Contracts Manager, collecting the Iberdrola Supplier of the Year Award in Madrid for the Kilgallioch Windfarm project.

Farrans Construction, 99 Kingsway, Dunmurry, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT17 9NU T: 028 9055 1300 www.farrans.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 53

CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

David Crowe, Ian Black Consulting and Edward Rea, Cementaid, receive their award from Damien Curran, of sponsors, Lafarge ( left) and Darren McMillen, Chairman, The Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region (right).

WINNER

IAN BLACK CONSULTING FOR TERRACE MOUNT, BOURNEMOUTH

Style and substance from Ian Black Consulting

I

an Black Consulting is the proud winner of a Concrete Society Award for the company’s involvement in the stylish Terrace Mount project in Bournemouth.

By providing a quality and personal service throughout Ireland and beyond, the Lisburnbased company has quickly established itself as one of the country’s leading consulting engineering practices.

Working alongside architect, White Ink Architects and main contractor, McAleer & Rushe, Ian Black Consulting again brought the company’s latest design and technology capabilities to this project.

The Terrace Mount development is a hotel-led mixed use scheme in the centre of Bournemouth. The site was extremely complex, being located in a mainly residential area near to Bournemouth town centre and

LOGO MISSING

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PROJECT TEAM

just five minutes’ walk from the beach and bustling promenade.

The scheme is anchored by two Hilton Hotels, and also includes 14 luxury penthouse apartments, an underground car park containing 200 parking spaces and another block consisting of 45 apartments.

This also incorporates the first Ted Baker apartments of their kind in the UK. The entire development has a dramatic ground level difference of 21m from top to bottom. It consists of three building blocks over a basement car park, culminating in a 13-storey glazed tower facing the seafront at the southern end.

The significant investment in the development has fed through to the local economy as well as the regeneration of what was a prominent, yet unsightly site.

• Main contractor: McAleer & Rushe • Architect: White Ink Architects • Consultant engineer: Ian Black Consulting Ltd • Lead waterproofing supplier: Cementaid

Ian Black Consulting Ltd, Wallace Buildings, 23 Market Place, Lisburn, BT28 1AN T: 028 9267 6500 www.ianblackconsulting.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Daniel McIlroy, Director at RTU Ltd, (centre) receives the award for Damien Curran, of sponsots Lafarge (left) and Darren McMillen, Chairman, The Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region.

WINNER

RTU FOR PORTSTEWART PROMENADE

Seaside success for RTU

R

TU was recognised for the company’s work in the environmental improvements at Portstewart Promenade.

There was a total of 2,300m2 of Exposa® Decorative Concrete used on the project with the selection of two striking colours Amber Beach 01 and Autumn Sunset 31, which created the distinctive red wave.

The Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council, with the support of the Department for Social Development, set aside £1,500,000 for the redevelopment of Portstewart Promenade aiming to ensure the asset is appropriately optimised for both residents and visitors alike.

Designed by Park Hood landscape architects and contracted by GEDA LLP, the iconic promenade has been given a modern twist

with a European feel with a beautiful red ‘wave’ surrounded by a golden background which fittingly reflects the Promenades beautiful sea-view backdrop. This has been accomplished through the use of RTU’s Exposa Decorative Concrete product which offers not only a strong and durable surface but a slip resistant and attractive finish for all who visit Portstewart’s iconic Promenade.

The prestigious project was created in association with GEDA Construction, Park Hood, McAdam Design Architects, Curtis Concrete Solutions and WYG Civil Enginners.

Opened to the public in July this year it has been met with online praise and adoration with many local celebrities visiting the new walkway and it has since been the venue for the annual Air Waves Show.

PROJECT TEAM

• Main contractor: Geda Construction • Architect: McAdam Design • Landscape architect: Park Hood Ltd • Specialist concrete Designer: Curtis Concrete Solutions • Civil engineer: WYG • Concrete Suppliers: RTU

RTU, Cloughfern Avenue, Newtownabbey, BT37 0UZ T: 028 9085 1441 www.rtu.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Damien Curran, of sponsors Lafarge (left) and Darren McMillan, Chairman of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region, present the award to Creagh Concrete’s Mark Gilliland , Sales & Estimating Manager – Structures; Brendan McCloskey, Production Manager; and Nelson Hanna, Production Manager.

WINNER

CREAGH CONCRETE PRODUCTS LTD FOR WARNER STAND, LORD’S CRICKET GROUND

Creagh Concrete hits the competition for six!

C

reagh Concrete Ltd put in plenty of runs to hit the competition for six and win a Concrete Society Award for the company’s involvement at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

The project focused on the new Warner Stand and involved the design, manufacture, delivery and installation of precast concrete terracing, step blocks, vomitary walls and staircases.

The project took a total of 12 weeks for Creagh Concrete Products Ltd to complete from start to finish; with 448 pieces in total. A total of 46 loads from the company’s Toome factory were delivered to Lord’s Cricket Grounds in London, comprising just over 1,100 tonnes.

The original Warner Stand was completed in 1958 and was no longer fit for purpose.

PROJECT TEAM

In contrast, the new stand has 2,656 seats, and combines outstanding facilities with innovative architecture. It incorporates two tiers of seating on a steeper gradient than the current stand, thus greatly improving sightlines; while a new match-control and match officials’ facility has been added that exceeds ICC and ECB standards and make Lord’s a world leader in this area.

In addition, more amenities within the stand for members and their friends, have been introduced, including a restaurant, three bars and catering facilities; while the relocation and incorporation of the existing retractable floodlight, integrates the floodlight mast within the architecture to reduce the visual impact of the shaft. The new Warner Stand has been enhanced with improved, allinclusive facilities for all spectators.

• Main contractor: BAM Construction Ltd • Architect: Populus • Structural engineer: Arup • Concrete supplier: Creagh Concrete Products Ltd

Creagh Concrete Products Ltd, Blackpark Road, Toomebridge, Co. Antrim, BT41 3SL T: 028 7965 0500 www.creaghconcrete.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

WILLIAM & HENRY ALEXANDER (CIVIL ENGINEERING) LTD FOR ALTAVEEDEN WIND FARM

WINNER

More wind farm success for William & Henry Alexander Ltd

W

ind farms have become a growing market for the concrete sector, and this was highlighted with an award for William & Henry Alexander (Civil Engineering) Ltd’s work on the Altaveeden Wind Farm in County Antrim.

Working closely with the client, RES (Renewable Energy Systems), the leading civil engineers completed the design and build contract for the erection of nine Enercon E82 turbine foundations at the site at Loughguile.

The Altaveeden Wind Farm project also included 4.1km of new site roads; nine crane hardstands; a 33KV control building and compound; a ravine crossing with a 6m span arch culvert; and SUDS drainage The wind farm is expected to produce sufficient clean renewable electricity to satisfy the average requirements of approximately 12,000 homes, every year. The entire project

team faced a tough task to ensure the £2.7million project was completed promptly with a tight seven-month turnaround time.

However, the fact that the company has over 40 years’ experience within the civil engineering and building industry, including a wide range of renewable energy projects, ensured the project remained on schedule.

As a family owned company, William & Henry Alexander (Civil Engineering) Ltd offers a wide range of services to meet the requirements of the commercial, energy and Public Sector markets. The company is strongly committed to delivering excellence in all aspects of every projects and ensuring client satisfaction. With continued investment and a commitment to excellence, this success at the Concrete Society Awards is the latest in a long line of recognition the company has received for its work.

PROJECT TEAM

• Lead designer: Jennings O’Donovan Consulting Engineers • Civil engineer: William & Henry Alexander (Civil Engineering) Ltd • Specialist sub-contractor: CESAS • Project development and management: Renewable Energy Systems • Foundation designers and wind turbine suppliers: Enercon GmbH • Concrete suppliers: FP McCann

William & Henry Alexander (Civil Engineering) Ltd, 2 Waterworks Road, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT79 7JS T: 028 8224 2348 www.alexander-civil.co.uk

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CONCRETE & CEMENT

2016 Awards

Damian Curran, of awards sponsors Lafarge Cement, (far left) and Darren McMillan Chairman of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region, (far right) present Macrete’s Abhey Gupta, Project Manager, and David Robb, Flexi Arch Design Engineer, with their award.

WINNER

MACRETE IRELAND FOR THE TEEWELL BRIDGE WIDENING SCHEME

Bristol bridge scheme is a winner for Macrete

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acrete Ireland’s involvement in a complex widening scheme on a bridge in Bristol has been rewarded by the judges.

The project involved a significant widening of the Teewell Hill railway bridge to include new footways and a wider road.

The original bridge was built in the 1840s to carry traffic over what is now the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. A separate steel pedestrian footbridge was added in more recent years.

However, with the main bridge no longer fit for purpose and the steel footbridge coming to the end of its design life, the decision was made by South Gloucestershire Council to undertake a significant widening scheme.

The impressive new bridge is the result of painstaking work by the entire project team, and it not only provides additional space for

PROJECT TEAM

vehicles but also includes new footways for pedestrians and improved cycle facilities.

Macrete was tasked with ensuring that the new bridge looked very similar to the original bridge, so the walls will be clad with similar stone as the original. Macrete Ireland Ltd is one of the UK’s foremost precision precast concrete manufacturers. From its design and manufacturing facility in Northern Ireland, the company supplies innovative bespoke structures to the construction industry’s main contractors throughout Britain and Ireland. One example of this innovation is the Flexi Arch bridge that has been employed in numerous projects across the UK – a patented Highways Agency approved system that combines modern precast concrete technology with traditional arch bridge structural principles.

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•

Contractor: South Gloucestershire Council Design consultant: Parsons Brinckerhoff and Doran Consulting Ltd Concrete supplier: Macrete Ireland Ltd

Macrete Ireland Ltd, 50 Creagh Road, Toomebridge, Co. Antrim, BT41 3SE T: 028 7965 0471 www.macrete.com

58 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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CONCRETE AND CEMENT

Tracey Concrete - your concrete requirements covered!

W

hen it comes to concrete there isn’t much that Tracey Concrete doesn’t do.

The company is one of the largest precast concrete manufacturers in the UK and Ireland and has developed an extensive range of top quality products for civils, housebuilding, tunnelling and rail applications, amongst others.

Tracey Concrete is a market leader in concrete pipes, perfect bases, manhole rings, jacking pipes, headwalls and cattle slats while the company also offers solutions ranging from wide wall, watertight manholes and catchpits through to cable through systems, caisson chambers and everything in between.

The company also has the ability to produce bespoke concrete solutions that meet specific requirements.

As important as the diversity of the product range is Tracey Concrete also backed this

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up with a consistently high level of quantity backed by efficient delivery and outstanding customer service.

In addition, Tracey Concrete’s products have achieved all necessary certifications and are accredited with the most up-to-date British and European standards along with the relevant products being BSI kitemarked and CE marked.

Aside from offering such a diverse product range, the company is always looking to the future. This is one of the reasons why Tracey Concrete has been involved in some of

the biggest projects in the UK and Ireland.

Through extensive research, the company’s technical team is always looking for the most advanced innovations in the industry and works closely with customers to provide any project designs required.

The recent launch of Perfect Base – Tracey Concrete’s ultimate manhole solution – is the perfect example of how this expertise and focus on quality makes a difference.

For further information on Tracey Concrete, telephone 028 6632 6437or visit www.traceyconcrete.com

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 59

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CONCRETE AND CEMENT

THE LAUNCH OF THE LIGHTEST DENSE CONCRETE BLOCK ON THE MARKET IS A REAL GAME CHANGER…

The lighter solution from Alpha Quarry Products

A

lpha Quarry Products has launched Alpha Key Block, which, according to the company, is the lightest dense concrete block on the market.

Not only that, but according to Alpha Quarry Products, the Alpha Key block is also easier to cut, track and plaster while it offers the lowest dry shrinkage figure on the market.

The profile moulded on the block face removes concrete to the tune of 4kgs, bringing the weight per block down to just 14kgs. This is very beneficial when delivering the blocks but, primarily, it is a major advantage for the builder who is handling hundreds of block per day.

The Alpha Key Block also offers these advantages The easiest dense concrete block to cut on the market - The profile also gives an excellent start for cutting blocks, again much easier on the builder.

The easiest to track on the market - The profiles are an excellent start for the tracking process and the ideal depth for electrical conduits.

The best key for plaster on the market - The profiles are designed with tapered edges to hold plaster regardless of the plaster mix design.

The lowest dry shrinkage figure on the market - Due to the production method

and additions used during production, the Alpha Key Block has the lowest dry shrinkage figure of any dense concrete block on the market, minimising the possibility of dry shrinkage cracking in your walls.

Alpha Key Block joins an extensive product range from Alpha Quarry Products which includes eco-liquid screed; traditional floor screed; ready mixed concrete; building and plastic mortar; quarry stone/sand; concrete and masonry blocks; pumice block/brick; precast/pre-stressed lintels; For more information, contact Alpha Quarry Products on 028 4481 1845.

Light as a feather?

Introducing Alpha Key Block – the lightest dense concrete block on the market

The lightest – The profile moulded on the block face removes concrete to the tune of 4kgs!

The best key for plaster - The profiles are designed with tapered edges to hold plaster regardless of the plaster mix design.

The easiest to cut - The profile also gives an excellent start for cutting blocks, again much easier on the builder.

The lowest dry shrinkage figure - Due to the production method and additions used during production, the Alpha Key Block has the lowest dry shrinkage figure of any dense concrete block on the market, minimising the possibility of dry shrinkage cracking in your walls.

The easiest to track - The profiles are an excellent start for the tracking process and the ideal depth for electrical conduits.

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Alpha Quarry Products Ltd Castlenavan Quarry 131a Newcastle Road Seaforde Co Down BT30 8PR T: 028 4481 1845

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 61

tio n lu so sc re ed d liq ui ew an Doran’s Rock, 124 Crossgar Road, Saintfield, Co Down T: 028 9751 9494 E: sales@cesquarryproducts.com www.cesquarryproducts.com

CONCRETE AND CEMENT

CES QUARRY PRODUCTS LAUNCHES CEMFLOOR, A HIGH-PERFORMANCE CEMENT-BASED LIQUID SCREED SOLUTION…

Cemfloor makes it simple A

new, high-performance cementbased liquid screed, which complies with EN 13813, is now available from CES Quarry Products.

The introduction of Cemfloor Liquid Screed is the result of Lisowen Contracts (a CES Quarry Products company) teaming up with McGraths Cong Ltd, Co Mayo, and Cemexa Technologies of France to develop the new product.

During its 20 years of existence, Cemexa Technologies has placed itself as a key player in the European market, and one of the main active leaders of cement screed development.

There are three different products available in the Cemfloor range: C16/F3 for domestic and non-underfloor heating; C20/ F4 for domestic and underfloor heating; and C25/F5 for commercial use.

KEY BENEFITS •

•

•

•

• •

Exceptional thermal conductivity (up to 2.9W/mk) with thinner sections compared to traditional screeds, 25mm above underfloor heating pipes.

Larger floor area without joints (up to 150m²).

Reduced drying times - 10 days for tiling and 28 days for wooden floors in non-heated floors; 21 days for tiling in heated floors; and 24 days for wooden floors. This is dependent on drying conditions of “after suitable moisture test”.

Self-compacting – no voids around underfloor heating pipes.

Foot traffic after 24 hours.

Minimal drying shrinkage (<0.05%).

• Can be force-dried after seven days.

• No priming of surface required.

Compatible with all cement-based tile adhesives.

• Can be polished for final floor finish (consult technical personnel).

• All floor coverings can be applied, with no need for mechanical sanding.

• Lower running costs for underfloor heating systems when using Cemfloor.

This is due to the exceptional thermal conductivity of up to 2.9W/mk and the ability to lay thinner screeds over the underfloor heating pipes.

• More thermal insulation can be used in floors, compared to traditional sand cement screed, which leads to a better U value for your building.

• Easy installation - up to 1,000m² per day (reduces time and costs).

• Resiliant to moisture, therefore can be applied in wet areas.

Cemfloor screeds are very responsive to underfloor heating, due to the fact that they can be laid in very thin sections and have a high thermal conductivity of up to 2.9w/ mk in comparison to 1.1w/mk for wood and

1.8w/mk for calcium sulphates.

Since Cemfloor is a cement-based screed, floor coverings can be applied much faster than with calcium sulphate screeds which require a final moisture content of 0.5% and can, therefore, delay floor finishings by months using green screed. Cemfloor, however, can be tiled at a final moisture content of 5%, and timber floors can be installed at a final moisture content of 2.8%, dependent on manufacturer’s guidelines, speeding up the entire build process.

When compared with other liquid screeds which generally need to be forced-dried with underfloor heating, Cemfloor Screed can be used in nonheated floors, as it doesn’t require force-drying to remove moisture.

Designed for use as a bonded thick levelling screed on concrete; as a floating screed over thermal or acoustic insulation; or as an unbonded screed on top of a plastic membrane, Cemfloor Screed is compatible with all floor coverings, cementitious adhesives and floor levellers.

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

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 63

CONCRETE AND CEMENT

Belfast zoo.

LOW MAINTENANCE DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN YOU CAN’T HAVE STYLISH SOLUTIONS, WITH EXPOSA® DECORATIVE CONCRETE ALSO OFFERING DURABILITY AND SLIP RESISTANCE…

Walk this way

I

t can be difficult to find an outdoor surface that can be adaptable to all weather conditions and, with the imminent Irish winter weather on the way, the maintenance of any outdoor space becomes less and less appealing.

Exposa® Decorative Concrete gives the benefit of a low maintenance, durable and slip-resistant finish all year round, with suitability for a range of outdoor settings, from promenades to high traffic areas and pedestrian zones to driveways, footpaths and patios.

With a wide variety of colours and textures available in the range, Exposa® offers the designer flexibility with a multitude of combinations.

Various colours can be used in combination

over one project to complement or contrast with each other. One outstanding an example of this is highlighted in a recent project for the award-winning Portstewart Promenade.

This project has a modern feel with a European twist featuring an iconic long red ‘wave’ of Autumn Sunset 31 surrounded by the golden colour of Amber Beach 01.

Other materials, such as cobble or paving stones, may be positioned as movement joints or to form a border adding an additional feature to any project.

Exposa® Decorative Concrete sits well within a rustic setting as well as a modern minimalist environment complementing the surrounding landscape or house render.

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• • •

•

Low maintenance Slip-resistant surface Inhibits the proliferation of weeds and moss Durable material

RTU manufactures Exposa® Decorative Concrete under stringent quality control procedures, ensuring conformity to the requirements of BS EN 206 and BS 8500.

If you would like more information, please contact RTU sales on 028 9085 1441 and press 2 for sales or e-mail info@rtu.co.uk. Why not check out the Exposa® gallery on www.rtu.co.uk

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CONCRETE AND CEMENT

NORTHSTONE MATERIALS DIVISION OFFERS OVER 60 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND A WEALTH OF EXPERTISE ACROSS A RANGE OF CONCRETE PRODUCTS…

Concrete solutions of the highest quality

N

orthstone Materials Division has been in the business of producing ready mixed concrete into the Northern Ireland construction market for well over 60 years.

The company has a wealth of experience in the concrete industry and is one of the leading suppliers of ready mixed concrete supplying concrete over the years to Northern Ireland’s most prestigious building contracts.

Northstone was the sole supplier of concrete to the new Kingspan Rugby Stadium and has also just completed the supply of concrete to the redeveloped IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park.

Other high-profile contracts supplied by Northstone include the new University of Ulster Campus in York Road; the new Allstate office block near Central Station, Belfast; and the major developments at both the Belfast City Hospital and the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald.

Over the years, Northstone has developed

a number of highly specialist concretes and screeds and these complement the company’s portfolio of established conventional concretes.

Northflo is an anhydrite liquid floor screed that is used to provide floor toppings to areas mainly with underfloor heating and the new Thermio Northflo has greatly improved thermal conductivity benefits which enable heat to be transferred quicker and more efficiently to the surface of the floor.

Northpave is an exposed aggregate finished concrete which is used in open areas such as parks and town centres where a more decorative or visual pleasing appearance is required.

The distribution network of 19 operational concrete depots are strategically spread across the whole of Northern Ireland and provides customers with access to deliveries in every corner of the province. A wellestablished professional sales team can offer advice on various concrete applications and a comprehensive mixer fleet of 8m3 and

6m3 lorries provide a top level delivery service to customers ranging from one-off builders, self-builders and farmers through to large civil engineering contractors.

Sales enquiries are handled at the Coleraine Head Office on 028 7032 1100 or through your local Sales Representative. Further information can be obtained from the company website at www.northstonematerials.com

NORTHSTONE (NI) LTD Company No. 4078, Registered Office: 99 Kingsway, Dunmurry Belfast, BT17 9NU CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS: Northstone (NI) Limited Materials Division Shinny Road, Coleraine BT51 4PS Tel: 028 7032 1100 www.northstone-ni.com

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DISCOVER OUR WORLD OF CLAY BRICKS, ASK TO SEE OUR LATEST COMPREHENSIVE RANGE NOW AVAILABLE.

Telephone: 028 9442 8044 www.bricksalesltd.com

CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS FEDERATION

LATEST ON THE INTRODUCTION OF THE APPRENTICESHIP LEVY IN NORTHERN IRELAND AS GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENT SHOWS ‘NO BENEFIT’ TO THE EXECUTIVE’S BUDGET…

CEF calls for deferral of Apprenticeship Levy

C

EF has welcomed the UK Government’s announcement that a funding deal for the Apprenticeship Levy has been agreed with the NI Executive but has reiterated calls for the levy’s deferment for at least a year.

The UK Government recently announced that it had agreed a funding deal for the upcoming apprenticeship levy for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“If they decide The announcement to opt out of the delivers the Government’s CITB NI levy, that commitment to provide the devolved administrations will dramatically with a fair deal, which will reduce the be based on population money it has at share. its disposal.

The Apprenticeship Levy is being introduced from April 6, 2017, and is payable by all employers operating in the UK with an annual pay bill over £3 million. In England, the levy will fund increased and improved apprenticeship training.

Skills policy is devolved, and this deal will provide the devolved administrations with a population share of the Office for Budget Responsibility’s latest apprenticeship levy

68 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

forecast (published in March 2016). For Northern Ireland, this equates to £76million in 2017-18; £79million in 2018-19 and £82million in 2019-20.

The Government statement added, “The devolved administrations will be provided with funding certainty as the UK Government will manage any difference between the levy forecast and actual levy revenues. This agreement has no impact on the existing arrangements in England.

“This population-based agreement is consistent with the UK’s general approach to sharing UKwide revenues. Beyond John Armstrong, Managing 2019-20, once the levy is Director of CEF embedded, the normal operation of the Barnett Formula should provide a similar outcome.

The devolved administrations will now decide how to allocate this funding to their devolved responsibilities.”

JOINT BRIEFING The Government announcement followed a recent joint briefing by the CEF and CITB NI to the Northern Ireland Assembly’s

Committee for the Economy on the impact of the proposed Apprenticeship Levy.

Describing the Northern Ireland construction industry as being in a fragile state, John Armstrong, Managing Director of CEF, said that they remained committed to industry training and developing apprentices.

However, while calling the Apprenticeship Levy a ‘laudable concept’, he also highlighted the fact that it will have a profound effect on the Northern Ireland sector as construction companies in the province already pay a training levy of 0.65% to CITB NI. It is estimated that around 25 companies in Northern Ireland will have to pay the new levy but, as John commented, it is still unclear whether they will be expected to pay both the Apprenticeship Levy and the CITB NI levy.

“If they decide to opt out of the CITB NI levy, that will dramatically reduce the money it has at its disposal,” said John.

He added, “This places a threat on the future of CITB NI, and this premature decision to impose the Apprenticeship Levy on construction companies in Northern Ireland will undermine the industry at the worst possible time.”

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CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS FEDERATION

Ministers respond to announcement

Call for action The joint briefing by CEF and CITB NI called for immediate action on the following four areas: • A Northern Ireland specific employer guide – Although the UK Government has published several iterations of its employer guide it, obviously, is heavily caveated by the fact that large elements of it relate to the new English-specific arrangements as of April 2017. A similar guide must be published by the Department for the Economy long before the start of April.

• Ring-fencing of the funds reapportioned to Northern Ireland through the Block Grant for skills and to CITB – Whatever comes back into the Block Grant, £22m at the current estimation, CEF believes it must be ring-fenced for skills. In addition, the proportion of that funding that comes from construction companies should be reallocated to CITB’s budget to allow contractors direct access to the funds they pay in – akin to the position in Great Britain.

• Withdrawal of the Levy/a postponement – Like the CBI, and given the administrative uncertainty surrounding the Levy and how it will operate on a day-to-day basis, never mind the direct financial and indirect training impact, CEF believes the Levy should be postponed for at least a year. Some will of course argue that this is not possible. However, given the volume of negativity surrounding the Levy, CEF would be hard pressed to name a Government policy which has, in recent times, caused us as much confusion and which can have as devastating an impact as this.

MAKE YOUR VIEWS HEARD Access the Apprentice Levy consultation - visit the website at https://consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/dfe/apprenticeship-levy

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Responding to the UK Government’s announcement on the Apprenticeship Levy, Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir and Economy Minister Simon Hamilton highlighted the impact on the Executive’s finances and on local employers.

Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir said in relation to the Apprenticeship Levy, “Having carefully considered the financial information provided to me by the Treasury I have concluded that the Levy is of no benefit to our budget.

“Next year the Apprenticeship Levy gives the Executive a Barnett Consequential of £76million. However, the cessation of funding for existing apprenticeships in England means a Barnett Consequential loss of £52million. There is also a £29million Levy on our public sector. This means there is no overall increase to the Executive’s Budget. ” Economy Minister Simon Hamilton added, “Máirtín Ó Muilleoir and I have discussed the levy. It is bad news for Northern Ireland public and private sector organisations with a pay bill of over £3million. I will be launching a short and focused consultation to garner the opinions of those impacted. I am committed to working with our employers to ensure that our apprenticeships and skills programmes can continue to grow their skills base and competitiveness. We currently have an excellent range of apprenticeships, and I would encourage all employers to use them to meet their skills needs.”

CITB calls for answers Following the statement by the Northern Ireland Finance Minister and Economy Minister, CITB NI has again called for more clarity on the Apprenticeship Levy.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI, has already been asking the Northern Ireland Assembly to deliver clarity on the Apprenticeship Levy, and he said, “The industry needs answers. How will the Apprenticeship Barry Neilson, Chief Levy affect contractors based in Executive CITB N Northern Ireland but working in Great Britain? Will it be collected monthly? If so, how will contractors be able to properly plan for this?

“Will companies paying a levy to CITB NI have to pay, in effect, twice? I fully welcome the Ministers call for a short and focused consultation to gauge the opinions of those impacted.”

Barry continued, “One of the most frustrating aspects of the Apprenticeship Levy is that it comes at a time when the construction industry is engaged with the Department for the Economy about an improved system for apprenticeships and training in Northern Ireland. We know improvements need to be made, and this levy may have an impact upon this.

We have a construction industry to be proud of in Northern Ireland but we need skills and forward planning to sustain it.”

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 69

CIS NEWS

CLARE LENNON, NI RESEARCHER FOR CIS IRELAND, PROVIDES A REGULAR INSIGHT INTO THE LATEST PROJECTS…

Increase in planning applications continues to show uplift in construction sector

N

orthern Ireland construction activity continues its buoyancy with a substantial range of new planning applications submitted in October. In particular, a good number of projects have been added to our Northern Ireland database at pre-planning stages, including pre-planning discussion and preplanning notice stages.

In the education sector, a formal planning application is to be lodged in Q1 2017 for a new £23.4million new build for Devenish College in Enniskillen, and is due for completion in 2019. The Southern Regional College is proposing a new £25million college development in Craigavon. A new school is also on the cards for St Joseph’s High School in Newry, while Lismore Comprehensive School in Craigavon is in line for a new school building, new sports pitches and playing fields.

The commercial sector pipeline looks strong with the £30million City Quays 3 office development in Belfast at pre-planning stage. A public consultation has taken place regarding the proposed redevelopment of the Connswater Shopping Centre and Retail Park in East Belfast. A nine-storey office development is in the planning pipeline for Donegall Square South in Belfast

city centre. Also planned for the city is a £10million office building at Albert Square. In Newtownabbey, Magowan Tyres has submitted a pre-planning application notice proposing a warehousing/ distribution unit.

The residential sector also saw many large planning applications being lodged in October. Braidwater Ltd is planning to construct 280-300 houses in Drumahoe, County L’Derry. Fraser Houses (NI) Ltd has plans for 85 houses in Carryduff, and a further 230 units at Cairnshill, Belfast. Phase 1 of its £7.5million Rivenwood scheme in Newtownards is already on-site. Plans were submitted for a £26million scheme comprising 390 dwellings in Donaghadee. The Gorteen Group has submitted plans for a housing development in Limavady, which could see the construction of 251 units.

In the sport and community sector, plans have been submitted for a £3million community building for Kildress Wolfe Tones GAC, while a new £4million community centre is in the pipeline for Lanark Way, Belfast, and St Macnissi’s Educational Trust is proposing the construction of a dual sport, recreation and physical activity facility in Ballymena.

You can access full details on these and thousands of other key and major construction projects on the CIS intuitive online database. Subscribe to one of the great value subscription services today to access thousands of in-depth, fully researched construction projects that range from pre-planning to on-site stages. *Please note: This CIS data was accurate on November 14, 2016. Visit www.cisireland.com for the latest project updates on these schemes.

THE LATEST REPUBLIC OF IRELAND PROJECTS… PROJECT

COUNTY

PROMOTER

CONTRACT STAGE

€17m Residential Development

Kildare

Ardstone Residential

Plans Submitted

€7m Student Accommodation

Dublin

Balark Investments

Plans Submitted

€9m Cinema

Galway

Solus Galway Picture

Contract Awarded

€1.6m Primary Care Centre

Limerick

James Vaughan

Plans Granted

€25m Office Extension

Cork

Apple Operations Europe

On Site

€20m Residential Development

Kildare

Kelston Properties

Plans Submitted

€5.5m Public House Extension

Dublin

Canbe Limited

Plans Granted

€150m Opera Centre

Limerick

Limerick City & County

Tender

€10m Office Development

Dublin

Dali Properties

Plans Granted

€4.2m Sewerage Scheme

Galway

Galway County Council

On Site

BRICK BITS • P&K McKaigue has been awarded the £3.2million contract to construct a mental health recovery and rehabilitation unit in Ballymena.

• Tendering is underway for the £100million Shared Education Campus in Omagh.

• A new £8million Holiday Inn hotel and retail development is to be constructed by Kevin Watson Group in L’Derry.

• Work is underway on a £1.75million tourist accommodation and restaurant near Divis Mountain, Belfast.

• A Project Manager/ QS is required for the Grand Opera House refurbishment works, Belfast.

• QMAC Construction is now on-site at Erne Integrated College, Enniskillen.

• Work is starting on the new £3.1million ambulance station in Enniskillen.

• Work has started on the £10million nonclinical support building at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast.

• Tendering starts for the £2.9million M1 and M2 bus lanes in Belfast.

FOR THE LATEST CONSTRUCTION LEADS, VISIT WWW.CISIRELAND.COM

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RENDER SYSTEMS

INNOVATIVE RENDER SYSTEMS BACKED UP WITH A SUPERIOR LEVEL OF TECHNICAL EXPERTISE – IT’S ALL PART OF THE SMET SUPPORTED PARTNERSHIP…

Professional render solutions R ender is a uniquely versatile material that can be used to coat virtually any building, to create new buildings, remodel existing and create fine façade detailing to any budget. Like any material that must withstand and repel the elements, the correct production and application are vital if it is to have longevity.

Essentially all modern renders are a composition of four elements - sand, cement, water and the additives which make the products perform. When combined in the correct quantities, these elements produce excellent rendering results.

However, if the ratios are not combined correctly, the materials will not perform.

For instance, too much cement means the render hardens too quickly, or develops too densely and too much lime additive means a slow cure process or loss of strength.

All renders adhere to the substrate by a combination of mechanical key and suction.

To determine the suitability of a render to a particular substrate or background, a close examination of the density of the substrate is required. All building systems have varying densities, i.e. engineered brick or block have a high density, while Poroton

blocks have a low density. Choosing the correct render for the various systems is vitally important.

From the substrate, out to the surface, densities vary from dense to less dense, or from strong to less strong. Although traditional renders are usually a build-up of several coats to achieve the correct steps in density, protection levels and aesthetic finish, modern manufacturing techniques now enable the production of single coat renders, achieving the same goals in a fraction of the time with consistent results.

Render products can also now be spraybringing european innovation

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RENDER SYSTEMS

applied, thus speeding up the process dramatically when compared to the traditional hand-applied method. Single coat renders, aka ‘monocouche’ or ‘monocapa’ (depending on their European origin), can be ‘through-coloured’ and are available in a range of colours or lime-cement based (which need a paint or synthetic decorative textured coating).

Each render enables the creation of a truly stunning façade finish.

SMET supplies a wide variety of Professional Render Systems designed for all building systems including; traditional concrete block, brick, Poroton building systems, Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF), timber frame building systems, retrofits, historic restoration and conservation builds.

SMET Professional Render Systems are used on a wide range of projects across the UK and Ireland. The SMET render system for application onto Poroton single-leaf,

self-insulating clay block is utilised in a vast number of new stores, extensions and refurbishments currently specified by major retailers such as Lidl.

These superstores are rendered using a combination of German-made Bauprotec 850 M, Bauprotec SLP lightweight lime cement render, Bauprotec RHS multipurpose render and mineral finish coat render. Each are specified for their unique properties, suitability for application onto lightweight Poroton block and offering great ease-of-use for the applicator.

Produced to EN 998-1: 2010, these renders are generally machine applied by Smet Supported Partners. Key drivers for the selection of these renders include their special properties such as lightweight, low density, low thermal conductivity, high yield and SMET’s superior technical back-up in the delivery and application of the highquality innovative façade materials.

“SMET supplies a wide variety of Professional Render Systems designed for all building systems.”

Delivery to new superstores requires a tight turn around and a just-in-time style service to Smet’s Supported Partners. Within this partnership, SMET invested in a new modern infrastructure such as urban trailers with taillifts which further supports the often limited on-site space when making deliveries.

Smet Building Products Ltd demonstrates, once again, best practice in supporting its Smet Supported Partners through offering a comprehensive range of professional systems backed up with a superior level of technical know-how.

bringing european innovation

Smet Building Products Ltd | 93A Belfast Road | Newry | BT34 1QH | Northern Ireland T: +44 (0) 28 3026 6833 | F: +44 (0) 28 3026 7619 | E: info@smetbuildingproducts.com www.smetbuildingproducts.com or www.smet.ie

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COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD

COMPANY KEEN TO BUILD ON EXCEPTIONAL 12 MONTHS OF GROWTH AND INCREASING SUCCESS ACROSS THE UK AND IRELAND…

Award-winning year for the Keystone Group

T

he Keystone Group, based in Cookstown, County Tyrone, has experienced an exceptional year of achievement following its inclusion in this year’s Parliamentary Review manufacturing edition, winning Company of the Year, Supplier of the Year and the hugely prestigious Construction Industry Award for Innovation.

The company, which also hosted a visit by the Secretary of State James Brokenshire MP, has more than doubled its workforce over the past three years. Its inclusion in the Parliamentary Review sets Keystone apart as the first Northern Ireland-based manufacturing company to be singled out for praise in the publication by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond.

The National Award for Innovation was announced at the British Construction Industry (BCI) Awards, with Keystone Group winning the Product Design Innovation Award for its ground-breaking Brick Slip Masonry Support System.

Keystone was founded in 1989, and now has over 1,000 staff, which has more than doubled in the past three years. Turnover has grown Keylite Roof Windows Managing Director, John Duffin, receiving significantly in that time, now in the Supplier of the Year Award at the National Merchant Awards. excess of £80m, with production facilities in Cookstown, South Companies to Inspire Europe’ report, and Derbyshire, Cwmbran and Poland. is the fastest growing roof window brand This relentless growth in the last three years across the UK and Europe. alone has been driven by the introduction Speaking as the company was presented of three new companies and extensive with the official copy of the Parliamentary growth across Europe for the Keylite brand.

Review by the Secretary of State James The group manufactures and supplies a Brokenshire MP, Company Chairman, Sean comprehensive range of innovative building Coyle, said this latest accolade was an products to the construction sector. unexpected honour.

The Keystone Group is multi-award “Since we set the company up in 1989, winning, and other recent accolades making one product with a handful of staff, include the prestigious Industry Product of it’s been an incredible experience to see it the Year award for 2016 and the National grow to the level we have reached today.

Housebuilder Award for Product of the Keystone is a company which we are proud Year 2014 for HiTherm Lintels and the to lead, and which our employees are proud Construction Innovation of the Year Award to work for.

2015 for IG’s Revolutionary Brick Slip “The Keystone Group has grown rapidly, Masonry Support systems. and will continue to do so, given our Earlier this year, Keylite Roof windows, the ongoing commitment to innovation and fastest growing brand and division within quality.” the group, was named as one of Europe’s The Keystone Group now consists of six most innovative and inspiring companies, divisions - Keystone Lintels, IG Lintels, according to the inaugural edition of Keylite Roof Windows, IG Elements, IG London Stock Exchange Group’s, ‘1,000 Masonry Support Systems and Smartroof,

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The Keystone Group Team receiving the Company of the Year Award at the UTV Business Eye Awards.

and have just entered into a strategic partnership with truss manufacturers Wyckham Blackwell.

The company firmly believes that its ongoing success is driven by its constant innovation, with 30 full-time research and development staff. The group currently holds 50 patents for innovative building products.

Company Chief Executive, Eithne Kelly, said that the company intends to invest strongly in its staff and products in the future and added that its ability to solve problems on behalf of the construction sector will remain a key driver.

“We are delighted to see the ongoing efforts of our management and employees recognised at the highest level. The Keystone Group has made customer service the number one priority in our business model, and our culture of constant innovation has helped us stand apart from our competitors.

“We are now the number one supplier of steel lintels in the UK and Ireland, where we are also the only indigenous manufacturer of roof windows. We have plans to further expand our business network across Northern Ireland, the Irish Republic, GB and further afield.”

For more information on the Keystone Group, telephone 028 8676 2184, e-mail info@TheKeystoneGroup.co.uk or visit www.thekeystonegroup.co.uk

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ARCHITECTURAL INSIGHT

2020 DIRECTING PARTNER, MICHAEL HOWE, DISCUSSES HOW ARCHITECTS, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MANUFACTURING AND CRAFTSMEN ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND, ARE SHAPING A NEW LANDSCAPE WITH THEIR INNOVATIVE IDEAS AND INITIATIVE…

Shaping a new landscape

I

n a massive endorsement to architects across Northern Ireland, the ‘honorary’ Kevin McCloud recently referred to it as a “richly talented profession” that continually “punches above its weight” in terms of architecture.

His statement was made at the recent RSUA Architecture Night 2016, held in October at the decommissioned Belfast Telegraph Print Works on Royal Avenue.

Architecture in Northern Ireland is growing in momentum. Our cultural visitor centres and places of education are now taking their place as some of the best designed buildings globally. Northern Ireland’s manufacturing companies, with their incredible skills set and technical expertise, breathe life into buildings by allowing designs and concepts to come to reality right here in Northern Ireland.

Design has gained momentum because architects know that they have this incredible team behind them. The Bernard Crossland Building (Queen’s University Computer Science Centre) uses 450 multi-coloured glass panels to create an amazing external façade. The company responsible was GlasSeal in Ballynahinch, who manufactured each individual fin using a process few other companies in the UK or Ireland can offer.

The stone mullions surrounding the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre were designed and manufactured by Kilkeel stone contractor,

Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre.

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McConnell and Sons, who perfectly imitated the towering basalt columns of the volcanically formed Giant’s Causeway.

Inside the MAC arts centre in Belfast, you are transported to industrial-age Belfast due to the intricate building design and textures. It was Armoy company, K Henry Construction, who took on the complex manufacturing of a 15m-high feature, cast-in-situ concrete wall. The MAC is internationally renowned for its conceptualisation and design and this building has received a national RIBA Award for Best Overall Building.

SENSITIVE ARCHITECTURE Northern Ireland has gained a reputation for sensitivity in architecture by restoring amazing buildings, and giving them new life.

This is especially evident in churches and historic buildings.

Alongside construction company H&J Martin, Dungannon-based company, Glenford Engineering, took on the project of restoring feature trusses inside the Guildhall in L’Derry – a project presenting many structural challenges that were all able to be met here in Northern Ireland.

Again, this is evident in the restoration of the prestigious Lynn Building at Queen’s University Belfast - a project placed appropriately in the hands of Consarc Conservation, Belfast. To preserve the unique architectural character of the

building, Consarc, alongside Woodvale Construction in Omagh, sensitively restored the roof to its natural glory. Internally and externally it’s a stunning piece of architecture.

EMBRACING CHANGE In terms of architecture, 2020 is passionate about designing buildings which are innovative and forward thinking. We place significant emphasis on educating the public in new ways of doing things and we love to see new concepts to fruition.

On this point, 2020 Architects has installed a fully immersive Virtual Reality Suite in our office premises in Ballymoney – the first architect in Northern Ireland to do so. Using a VR headset, clients can stand in a photorealistic environment and look around, not on a screen, but in the same way they do in the real world. By transforming 3D CAD models into interactive walk-throughs, architects and clients can evaluate aesthetic and design alternatives in real time.

We are already finding this is bridging the gap between architects, manufacturing and construction companies, enabling design alternatives, specifications and decisions to be synchronised between all the relevant companies – saving time and money.

For more information, telephone 028 2766 7999, e-mail info@2020architects.co.uk or visit www.2020architects.co.uk

The Bernard Crossland Computer Sciences Building at Queen’s University.

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PROJECT PROFILE

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

AN INTRODUCTION THIS HISTORIC ‘PEOPLE’S PARK’ IN THE HEART OF L’DERRY HAS BEEN RESTORED TO ITS FORMER GLORY AFTER A MAJOR REGENERATION PROJECT… g

Brooke Park re-opens after multi-millionpound facelift

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

OVERVIEW

VICTORIAN PARK OPENS THE NEXT CHAPTER IN ITS COLOURFUL HISTORY WITH STATEOF-THE-ART NEW LEISURE AND PLAY FACILITIES…

Brooke Park regeneration is child’s play for Woodvale Construction

T

he £5.6million regeneration of Brooke Park in L’Derry has brought a popular attraction back to life.

An historic landmark within the Maiden City, the eight-hectare public park was built in 1901 and, thanks to the regeneration project (funded

by Derry City and Strabane District Council, the Heritage Lottery Fun, and the Department of Social Development), it has now been transformed for future generations.

The project included the building of the Gwyn’s Pavilion Café on the site of the former Gwyn’s Institute, plus the restoration of the Brooke Park Portico Lodge and the former Victorian Oval Pond. The scheme also comprised an innovative play garden and walled garden, along with a horticulture and environment training centre, a new contact sport centre, and new 3G pitches, all set within a stunningly restored landscape.

The £5.6million revamp got underway in

January, 2015 after the council appointed Woodvale Construction to deliver the regeneration project, and MWA Landscape Architects to design the layout.

Woodvale Construction had four building structures on site – the contact sports centre, horticultural training centre, pavilion building, and gatelodge.

The works for the contact sports centre involved under-pinning an historic wall and building a 4m-high reinforced concrete retaining wall, before foundation works (consisting of pad and strip foundations) could start.

A steel portal frame provided the skeleton of the building, which was wrapped with blockwork and timber cladding externally, and insulated. Internally, there is a blockwork finish, with an insulated roof sheet system completing the building.

The works for the horticultural training centre involved traditional strip foundations, ground-

bearing slab and an insulated blockwork envelope. Insulated single-roof membrane completed the roof structure.

At the pavilion building, works consisted of piling through an existing basement structure from the previously demolished building, topped with pile caps and ground beams. A steel portal frame was wrapped in traditional blockwork, rendered to finish. A sedum roof finished the building envelope. A reinforced concrete oval shaped pond was constructed below the pavilion and fenced to mirror what had been there originally. It is surrounded by a bespoke cast fencing post and infill detail, with planted flower beds carefully arranged throughout the site.

The gate lodge works consisted of delicately restoring the listed stone-built building and access gates at the Infirmary Road entrance to the park. Repairs to stone, roof, and windows and doors were undertaken on site,

“We were aware of the park’s great history and were delighted to bring some of its best features back to life.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

conserving the material that was originally used. Throughout the park, several hundred metres of bespoke fencing encapsulates the grounds.

CHALLENGES “A big challenge on the project was the water discharge rate from the new storm drainage system,” said Paul Devine, Contract Manager on the project with main contractor, Woodvale Construction. “It was so onerous that large attenuation tanks were required to restrict flow rates entering the under-pressure storm system in the city. The problem here was not to interfere with the existing trees and their root structures. We worked with our design team to reconfigure a solution to enable us to place the tanks into the ground with minimal impact on the existing trees, which we did - and it worked very well.

“A second challenge was keeping the park pathways open, to enable the public to keep using the path whilst construction work was ongoing,” continued Paul. “We accommodated this by introducing some additional paths and fencing, and securing the existing pathways at the very outset of the project. Manned barriers were utilised to manage the pedestrian crossing points.

“The site was 25 acres, which created

challenges for our site management of the project. We sourced what was akin to a golf buggy for our management team to efficiently get around the site to keep an eye on operations, safety and quality!

“The weather proved to be another challenge and I would like to thank our Site Manager, Mickey McCann who motivated his team during one of the wettest summers on record, and who made everything happen on site with his strong work ethic.

“We understood that the project was a long time in its conception and we ensured that all our communication was out in the public domain, keeping the community informed about how things were going. The existing leisure centre on site was operating throughout the project duration, which also meant close collaboration. The historic value of the site was not lost on us either. We were aware of the park’s great history and were delighted to bring some of its best features back to life - such as the statue and metalwork throughout the park.

“The ‘Black Man’, as the locals refer to the statue, received a total make-over from our bronze specialist and sculptor, Ed Barton. He oversaw the removal of years of paintwork and restored the statue to its original splendour, a detailed job which took several days’ work on

site. The existing iron-work gates and railings to the gatelodge were also painstakingly stripped of years of paint, repaired and reerected to their original specification.

In addition, to mark the significance of the park in the city’s history, we buried a time capsule in the foundations of the pavilion building, with an on-site ceremony attended by the Lord Mayor.”

Project team…

Client: Derry City and Strabane District Council Value: £5.6million Architect: Hamilton Architects Landscape Architect and Project Manager: MWA Architects Main Contractor: Woodvale Construction M&E Consultant: Gillespie & Cummings Civil & Structural Engineer: Taylor Boyd Mechanical Contractor: Scott & Ewing Electrical Contractor: P. McColgan & Sons

Woodvale Construction, 59 Crevenagh Road, Omagh, BT79 0EX T: 028 8224 2622 – E: info@woodvaleconstruction.co.uk www.woodvaleconstruction.co.uk

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

FALL PREVENTION SYSTEMS

PRONET SAFETY SERVICES PROVIDES QUALITY FALL PREVENTION SYSTEMS ON ROOFS OF PARK BUILDINGS…

Prevention by protection R ecognised as one of the UK and Ireland’s leading fall arrest, safety netting and edge protection specialists, ProNet Safety Services was called in to install fall prevention systems on the roofs of both the Horticultural and Environmental Training Centre and the Contact Sports Centre at Brooke Park.

“We installed and fitted horizontal CableSafe systems that use an 8mm diameter stainless steel cable,” explained Paul Linton, Contracts Manager. “Providing excellent resistance to corrosion and wear, the flexibility of these systems allows them to flow smoothly around corners and deviations.

“We pride ourselves on promoting safe working environments and only use the highest quality equipment for both our temporary and permanent solutions. Fall arrest and restraint systems are designed to provide protection to end-users at risk of falls and ProNet Safety Services offers a selection of modern high-performance fall arrest/restraint systems for use on modern

structures and roofs,” continued Paul.

“We specialise in systems that comply with current British and international standards for working at heights, and our expertise and experience means that can we supply both manufactured systems or design and install custom-built systems that meet the individual requirements of your project.”

in Northern Ireland, ProNet Safety Services operates within the UK and Ireland and, having recently moved into larger premises outside Larne, we now have the space to grow the company further. We recently won a big contract to carry out prevention work for a landmark programme to deliver 14 primary care centres across the Republic of Ireland, and another one for 5,000 linear metres of FAST AND EFFICIENT SERVICE cable fall prevention system for Bombardier.

Offering a nationwide service to all sections Managing Director, Jordan Bonar added, of the construction industry, guaranteeing a “The scope of our safety netting works in the fast and efficient output, and with a thorough Republic of Ireland has increased to a point understanding of European Standards, where we now have dedicated teams based in ProNet Safety Services aims to provide a the Republic, and are exploring the option of contemporary, innovative and personal opening a full-time office in Ireland.” service that is both practical and costBoasting an extensive range of safety effective. solutions, ProNet’s core services include safety “ProNet’s number one priority for all our nets; edge protection (guardrail - temporary clients is ‘Prevention by Protection’ and we do and permanent); fall arrest (cable systems, this through fall protection and roof access, mobile anchors, eyebolts etc); permanent which I run, and safety netting, which is run access (ladder, walkways and platforms); rope by the company’s Managing Director, Jordan access and servicing/maintenance contracts Bonar,” explained Paul. “Although based (maintenance, cleaning and protection).

ProNet Safety Services Ltd, 68 Browndod Rd, Larne, BT40 3DX T: 028 2826 7823 – E: info@pronetsafetyservices.com pronetsafetyservices.com

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

TRADITIONALLY CRAFTED, CREATIVE, WOODEN PLAY EQUIPMENT FROM NATURE PLAY IRELAND…

Brooke Park goes back to nature

W

ith many years’ experience in the design, supply and installation of quality play equipment, Nature Play Ireland Ltd was able to advise on the choice of apparatus at Brooke Park, supplying a wide range of innovative products from its exclusive partner, Richter Spielgeräte.

“This German company specialises in natural materials, both in surfacing and construction, and we used a lot of their timber-made equipment at Brooke Park,” explained Nature Play Ireland’s Managing Director, Harry Harbottle. “We have carried out a lot of research into children’s play equipment, and the new play park has a natural orientation that makes it look that extra bit special.

“Richter Spielgeräte, which will be celebrating its 50th birthday next year, is made up of skilled craftspeople specialising in traditionally crafted, sustainable wooden play equipment.

We share their philosophy of “as much play value as possible – as much safety as necessary”, to create play offers with an

appropriate level of risk and at a level at which children and young people can play in a self-determined way, whilst developing self-protecting behaviour.”

To this end, Nature Play supplied a range of equipment which included a cradle nest swing (particularly attractive to children with special needs); combination platforms with slides; standing carousels; wooden swinging horses; timber play-hut combinations; jumping discs; wobble dishes; ladders; climbing walls and more.

Based in Galway, Nature Play Ireland has many years of experience working on projects all across Ireland. “Our focus is on providing sustainable, high-quality, creative play experiences for children of all ages and agilities,” said Harry. “We have a passion for what we do and are delighted to have been responsible for the construction of some of Ireland’s most innovative and natural children’s playgrounds. We have significant experience of working on community and

school play space projects and believe that our service in design, installation and after-care is second to none.

“Our products are hand-crafted and constructed in a way that children can understand, made through a traditional process and with a time-honoured approach to sustainability.

“All our equipment conforms to EN 1176, while at the same time, presenting significant challenges to test even the most agile children. We use only high-quality fixings and mechanical components, designed for longevity and simplicity of maintenance.”

Nature Play Ireland also has a strong environmental focus, using sustainably forested European wood (FSC/ PEFC), and delivering products that are unpackaged, unpainted, naturally sustainable and low-maintenance. Simple construction also allows for end-of-life recycling.

Nature Play Ireland Ltd, Tararock 7, Galway Technology Park, Parkmore, Co Galway T: 00353 91 778 807 – E: info@natureplay.ie natureplay.ie

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

PERIMETER FENCING, RAILINGS AND GATES

RC ENGINEERING GOES THE EXTRA MILE TO ENSURE THAT BROOKE PARK IS RESTORED TO ITS FORMER GLORY…

Bespoke job from RC Engineering

T

he experience and expertise of RC Engineering played an essential role in ensuring that all the perimeter railings, fencing and entrance gates at Brooke Park were made to reflect the Victorian design of the originals, manufactured in galvanised, powder-coated wrought iron.

The process of supplying and installing these items was by no means a simple operation.

“The aim was to recreate the Victorian design in the new items and restore some of the existing original pieces where possible,” said Enda O’Neill, Director, RC Engineering. “We supplied and installed a total of some 600 metres of fencing, including the area around the pond. It was a very specialist job and parts, such as the rail head finials, had to be custom-made, according to the architect’s drawings, to match up with the originals. It took some time to source the right products.

We also restored some of the original railings

at the gatehouse, and put new gates on the various entrances. The main gates at the gate lodge are very decorative, and again, was a bespoke job – we had to get mouldings made specially for the rosettes, in keeping with the original design. For the area around the pond, we manufactured and installed the rails to another bespoke design, but again, had to source the aluminium posts, which were cast and forged in England.

“It was a very meticulous job, where attention to detail was paramount, but we finished on schedule,” continued Enda. “We manufacture our own products, including bespoke designs, but this was our first restoration contract and we are very proud of what we have achieved.

“A lot of our work generally is supplying industrial and sports ground fencing, and at Brooke Park we also supplied the posts, gates and curtain net for the 3G pitch.”

RC Engineering is a family-run business with many years of experience in the fencing and metal fabrication industries. A very highly skilled team continuously works on developing the company’s products, and any job can be bespoke designed to customer specifications.

“We have added to our core business and also now manufacture a wide range of bike shelters and smoking shelters, and goal posts,” said Enda.

“We manufacture our own products, including bespoke designs, but this was our first restoration contract and we are very proud of what we have achieved.”

RC Engineering NI Ltd, 85 Sixtowns Road, Draperstown, BT45 7BB T: 028 7962 7188 - E: enda@rcengineeringni.com rcengineeringni.co.uk

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

FENCING

O’NEILL FENCING DELIVERS QUALITY INSTALLATIONS, ON TIME, AND WITHIN THE CLIENT’S BUDGET…

O’Neill Fencing reaches new heights of success

O

’Neill Fencing was responsible for a range of fencing to various areas of Brooke Park, including the perimeter of the sports pitch, walkways and public spaces.

The company supplied and installed 4,200mm high Ridgefence Super rebound system incorporating heavy duty, twin 8.0mm horizontal wires with single 6.0mm vertical wire. “This particular system has varying mesh apertures of 50x66mm, 50x100mm and 50x200mm which means it’s suitable for a multitude of sports, ranging from softball sports such as football to hard ball sports like hockey,” explained Ambrose Houston, Manager, O’Neill Fencing.

Ridgefence roll top fencing was supplied in and around communal walkways and public spaces, and was chosen for its safe design, with folded top and bottom beams on the panel. It also has no spikes or barbs, thereby helping to eliminate possible injuries to children or any other users of these spaces.

Ridgefence Nylofor 3M plus and Nylofor 3M standard systems were also supplied to the scheme, in two heights – 2,430mm high and 3,000mm high. The 2,430mm high system had mesh apertures of 50x200mm, whilst the 3,000mm high had 25x200mm mesh apertures for additional security.

“We are extremely proud to have been involved in this project at Brooke Park,” said Ambrose. “We truly feel it showcases our ability to deliver quality fence installations, on time, within the client’s budget. We offer a wide range of products and specifications to meet the needs of many clients, all backed up and supported by our local supply chain.

CUSTOMER COMES FIRST “As a customer-focused company, we aim for continual improvement in terms of both our products and installation, and are dedicated to exceeding our customers’ expectations,” continued Ambrose.

“With over 20 years’ experience as a fencing contractor, O’Neill Fencing takes pride in supplying quality products and first-rate workmanship. The key to our continued success is our company philosophy of ‘getting it right first time’. We take time to listen to our clients’ objectives, and establish their needs and budget, before choosing an appropriate fencing system.

“Our attitude to product quality and installation excellence is reflected in the products we use. We are a Pro-net licensed contractor for Betafence products, which means we can provide a 10-year product and installation guarantee that is unique to the Northern Ireland market.”

O’Neill Fencing supplies and installs all types of fencing products, including palisade, paladin, Nylofor, high security, anti-climb/anti-vandal systems, spectator railings, gates, ball catch systems, ball courts, and D rail timber fencing, as well as agricultural fencing and sheep wire.

O’Neill Fencing, 3 Lisbunny Road, Donemana, Co Tyrone, BT82 0PZ T: 028 7139 8300 – E: oneillfencing@btconnect.com www.oneillfencing.co.uk

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR

WITH A SEPARATE MECHANICAL INSTALLATION FOR FOUR DIFFERENT BUILDINGS ALONG WITH A POND FILTRATION SYSTEM, THIS LEADING MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR’S CO-ORDINATION SKILLS WERE PUT TO THE TEST…

Four in one for Scott & Ewing Ltd

T

he major regeneration of this historic people’s park in the Maiden City offered four separate challenges within the one project for Scott & Ewing Ltd. The experienced mechanical contractor was tasked with providing the heating and ventilation solutions for four distinct buildings within Brook Park while also delivering a filtration and pumping system for the newly created pond.

The project includes four buildings – the Contact Sports Centre; the Horticultural and Environmental Training Centre; Gwyn Pavilion Café; and Brook Park Portico Lodge – and, from Scott & Ewing’s perspective, each of these buildings had to have its own plant room and heating system.

Raymond Scott, Contracts Manager at Scott & Ewing Ltd, explained, “We treated them all as separate projects and

focused on the requirements of each one.

For example, the Contact Sports Centre doesn’t have any radiators and instead we installed high level heating panels.

The horticultural training centre and the pavilion building were similar in that they included designer radiators but the café aspect of the pavilion is air conditioned.

“The Brook Park Portico Lodge was an existing building that was refurbished, so we maintained the style of the building by installing traditional radiators.”

While, in effect, this project was four different jobs, the team from Scott & Ewing worked on them all simultaneously.

A unique aspect of this project for Scott & Ewing was the pond. The former Victorian Oval Pond has been recreated below the pavilion and fenced to mirror what had been there originally. As part of this, Scott & Ewing reworked what was effectively an underground shed to install a filtration and

pump system that circulates and cleans the pond water to keep it algae free.

Raymond added, “We enjoy a challenge and while there wasn’t anything particularly difficult overall, it was the co-ordination of the different aspects of this project that made it unique.

“We are a highly experienced company and over the years we have learned that planning and management of the project alongside the other specialists involved is just as important as the installation itself.

“We enjoy a challenge and while there wasn’t anything particularly difficult overall, it was the co-ordination of the different aspects of this project that made it unique.”

Scott & Ewing Ltd, 59 Crevenagh Road, Omagh, BT79 0EX T: 028 8224 2622

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STONEWORK

EXPERTISE FROM CLARKE RESTORATION PLAYS IMPORTANT PART IN REPAIR OF PARK’S STONEWORK…

Clarke Restoration helps protect local heritage

A

ppointed as specialist stone contractor by Woodvale Construction, Clarke Restoration was responsible for all the stone works involved in the Brooke Park regeneration project.

These included the restoration work of the gate lodge at Infirmary Road, the gate piers and ornate walling at Infirmary Road, and the historic steps detail.

Clarke Restoration also built the new entrances to the park at two locations Rosemount Avenue and the Creaghan Road (new stone piers and walling) – and rebuilt the historic boundary walling in different locations throughout the park, using local schist stone.

“We also cleaned the historic walling using our specialist cleaning systems, which are NIEA approved, and repointed the walls in various locations throughout the park,” explained Paul Clarke.

“As the specialist masonry contractor during

the restoration works at the project, we found working alongside the main contractor and different architects very helpful and rewarding. We even helped the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Elisha McCallion to lay the foundation stone at the new Pavilion building. It contains a specially designed time capsule which has information on life today and contains artefacts, including pictures from Victorian times and 175-yearold coins.”

SKILLS Clarke Restoration has been involved in the stone and restoration industry for three decades, developing a wide range of skills in all aspects of masonry. Working on a wide range of historic and listed buildings across Northern Ireland and beyond, the services provided by the company in this specialism include stone restoration, lime

pointing, stone and brick cleaning and façade and monument cleaning.

“We are highly aware of the potential damage that can be caused to historic buildings with the use of incorrect techniques,” said Paul. “We use a wide range of techniques, including a lowpressure air abrasive system; chemical cleaning; graffiti cleaning and removal; and steam cleaning. We can also now provide pressure pointing and void filling, using our new pump machines.

“The DOFF cleaning system we use cleans stonework and masonry using hightemperature steam.

The steam/superheated water will remove moss, algae, fungi and other biological matter and will also kill off spores. This means there’s then no need to use a chemical biocide during the removal process or as a protection against further biological activity.”

Clarke Restoration, 154 Eshnadarragh Road, Lannaght, Roslea, BT92 7LB T: 028 6775 1966 – E: info@clarkerestoration.co.uk www.clarkerestoration.co.uk

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BROOKE PARK, DERRY

SPORTS GROUND At Haffey’s it’s more than just a game!

H

affey Sports Grounds supplied and installed the complete synthetic system for the 3G sports facility at Brooke Park.

“This included a 60mm carpet on a prefabricated shock-pad,” said company owner, Jack Salt. “The completed system was tested and certified to GAA, World Rugby and FIFA regulations, and we provided a bespoke maintenance package for the client to ensure that the highest level of aftercare was achieved.

“All elements of our systems are installed using our own in-house operatives, who are factory trained by the carpet manufacturer. We use the latest installation techniques and equipment and, in collaboration with our partners

in manufacturing, we can provide detailed specification advice for all types of new projects.

“Our Technical Team can meet all your synthetic turf needs, including specification building, manufacture, installation and aftercare (including tailored maintenance packages), and all our systems are provided with a manufacturer’s warranty,” added Jack.

Haffey Sports Grounds creates and maintains high-quality sports grounds and golf courses across Ireland. Based in Portadown, the company’s success is rooted in a professional ethos based on innovation, quality and professionalism, and a pedigree that stems from the owners hands-on approach.

Haffey Sports Grounds, 47a Derrycarne Road, Portadown, BT62 1PT T: 028 3839 4350 - E: info@haffeysportsgrounds.co.uk www.haffeysportsgrounds.co.uk

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

LANDSCAPING

GB Landscapes delivers every time

A

warding-winning landscape contractor, GB Landscapes braved harsh winter weather to complete its contract at Brooke Park.

“It was a specialist job and, following the brief from landscape architect, MWA Partnership Ltd, we had to grow a lot of the plants in advance to ensure we had the numbers we needed – over 100,000 trees, shrubs and hedging were required,” explained Director, Gary Baird. Working on site from November through to March 2015 we had to endure really bad weather conditions, but we had a tight time-frame in which to complete the work, which included preparation work, sowing grass seeds, planting and laying bark and mulch. The team from Woodvale Construction were all very accommodating

and we were able to meet the deadline.”

Carrying out large commercial projects across the UK, GB Landscapes has a growing reputation for its work at schools, hospitals and large road schemes in particular.

“We are currently working on a new scheme in Belfast, planting 180 semi-mature trees for the Belfast Rapid Transit Route on the Falls Road, and have also just started a large job for grass and planting work the A31 Magherafelt bypass,” said Gary. “In January we have an even bigger job for the M2/A26 Ballymena bypass.”

“Carrying out large commercial projects across the UK, GB Landscapes has a growing reputation.”

GB Landscapes (NI) Ltd, 9A Learmore Road, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7RX T: 028 8167 9150 or M: 077 1134 3182 E: baird485@btinternet.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

ROOFING

Quality workmanship from Conwell Roofing Contracts

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aving worked with Woodvale Construction on numerous other projects, Conwell Roofing Contracts was delighted to team up with contractor again on the Brook Parke project.

The company offers a high level of service and is very proud of its hard earned reputation. “We realise that whilst it takes years to build a good reputation, it only takes one instance to damage it,” said Director, Stephen Conwell.

“Over the years we have gained valuable experience in our field and can assure customers of an excellent service with timeserved tradesmen and high-level quality workmanship with a full 10-year guarantee.

“At Brooke Park we supplied and fitted

two products. On the pavilion building it was a Sika-Trocal roof membrane, and at the contact sports centre it was Topdek sheeting from Kingspan, which offers a good U-value and is easy to fit.”

The Sika-Trocal concept utilises lightweight, flexible and easy-to-install single-ply membranes to provide a range of new and refurbishment roofing systems that are ideally suited to today’s environmentally conscious fast-track construction programmes.

Topdek is a single component, factory preengineered roof deck, comprising a highperformance single-ply PVC/TPE membrane with insulation and a trapezoidal steel deck, which can eliminate the need for valley-hip and boundary wall gutters.

Conwell Roofing Contracts Ltd, 32 Peacock Road, Strabane, Co Tyrone, BT82 9NW T: 028 8165 8372 – E: info@conwellroofing.com www.conwellroofing.com

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

PLASTER MOULDINGS Skilled craftsmanship from Derg Ornamental

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nown throughout the industry for its highly skilled work on restoration projects, Castlederg company, Derg Ornamental Plaster Mouldings was the ideal choice for repair work needed on the Brooke Park project. Helping to restore the old park to its former Victorian splendour was just the type of specialist job that Derg Ornamental excels at.

“Where we could, we restored and repaired some of the stone work, using traditional methods where possible,” said Director, John Lynch. “For example, we rendered some of the walls using hand-run mouldings, carried out in situ using traditional lime mortar.

“At the old gate house, we refurbished the

mouldings and put cornicing back on, while at one of the entrances to the park, we fitted a new stone balustrade wall and steps.

It was a skilled job and helping to restore such a historic landmark as Brooke Park was very satisfying.”

A third generation business, Derg Ornamental Plaster Mouldings provides an unrivalled choice of mouldings (plaster and concrete) for both internal and external use.

A complete design service is also offered, and this includes complete fitting services to the highest standard for all the company’s products; restoration and reproduction services for old buildings; production of moulds to match existing moulds; and bespoke designed moulds.

Derg Ornamental Plaster Mouldings, 43 Young Crescent, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, BT81 7BZ T: 028 8167 9225 (after 7pm) M: 07742 227 270 E: tarlynch43@aol.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 87

PROJECT PROFILE

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

STREET FURNITURE Hartecast Street Furniture helps to restore Brooke Park

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rooke Park has been restored to its former Victorian splendour after a complete overhaul.

Hartecast Street Furniture supplied the bollards for traffic control and car parking purposes, manufactured at the company’s base in Wexford.

As a specialist in contemporary street furniture, Hartecast has experience and expertise that is second to none in the industry.

“Whatever issues a customer faces, Hartecast has a proven product or solution to meet the requirement,” said Managing Director, Harry Harte.

The company works closely with its clients to understand their needs and to adapt its

designs to meet the demands on furniture products in the modern urban space.

“We’ve been designing and manufacturing our own distinctive product range for over 35 years now, for Ireland and the UK,” continued Harry. “One of our most recent, larger contracts in Northern Ireland was the Connswater Community Greenway Scheme in Belfast. We have also supplied street furniture for various recent local authority and public realm schemes this year, such as Cookstown Public Realm anad the Ballymena Core Streets Project.

“Our hallmark is creating durable, longlife and high-performance street furniture products in contemporary designs,” added Harry.

Hartecast Ltd, Clonroche, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford T: 00353 51 424 922 - E: info@hartecast.co.uk www.hartecast.co.uk

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

STREET FURNITURE Bespoke design from ASF Engineering

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pecialising in bespoke street furniture, ASF Engineering manufactured and supplied a number of cycle stands, bollards and boot wipers as part of the restoration and refurbishment of Brooke Park.

“We carry out a lot of work with Woodvale Construction and these items were chosen because of their high-quality design and durability – just the sort of robust attributes necessary for a project such as this, “ said Melvin Smyth, Director.

ASF Engineering specialises in the production and fitting of seating, litter bins, bollards, picnic tables, cycle parking, post and rail, gates and railings, tree furniture, carpark barriers and planters.

“We’re a small, local company offering a bespoke, in-house design - that’s one

of our strengths,” said Melvin. “We can react quickly to our customers’ needs and can easily provide products and services to clients province-wide within a short time frame.

“ASF Engineering was established in 1996 and since then we have grown substantially, manufacturing a wide range of street furniture for many prestigious public realm schemes, park and retail developments throughout Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and mainland UK. We can list many of the local councils, DRD and some of the province’s largest civil engineering and building contractors amongst our clients.

“Recent large jobs on the North Coast have included full stainless steel projects with railings and street furniture on West Strand, Portrush, and Portstewart Promenade.”

ASF Engineering Ltd, 54 Greenfield Road, Kells, Ballymena, Co Antrim, BT42 3NG T: 028 2589 2469 – M: 0771 094 7796 - E: melvin.smyth@hotmail.co.uk www.asfengineering.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

FIRE PROTECTION SOLUTIONS Safe solutions from Fire-Protec

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ire-Protec Ireland Ltd applied the intumescent paint to the supporting steelwork of the contact sports centre at Brooke Park.

“Intumescent paint is a fast method of providing 30-120 minutes of fire protection to structural steel,” explained FireProtec’s Director, Tim McGarry. “It has the advantage over other methods of fire protection in that it gives a smooth, robust, decorative finish that allows the structural steelwork to be used as an integral part of the building design.”

Intumescent paint can be used in conjunction with other fire protection systems. However, due to the nature of its activation, care must be taken with its application. “I had 12 years’ industry

experience before setting up Fire-Protec in 2010,” said Tim. “I now have a team of 10 men, all trained in-house to high standards, and we offer a reliable service at a competitive price.

“We also offer a fire-stopping service,” added Tim. “Fire stopping and penetration sealing is the process of preserving the fire-resisting performance of walls, floors and roofs where voids exist or services have been installed. We can install fire stopping products to electrical, mechanical and hydraulic services penetrating fire-rated elements of buildings.”

Fire-Protec provides passive fire protection solutions to the construction industry in the UK and Ireland across a wide range of sectors.

Fire-Protec Ireland Ltd, Unit 5, The Millennium Centre, Lough Road, Loughgiel, Ballymena, BT44 9JN T: 078 5052 6741 - E: info@fireprotec.co.uk fireprotec.co.uk

BROOKE PARK, DERRY

STREET FURNITURE Superlative service from Murdock’s

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or the Derry branch of Murdock Builder’s Merchants, the Brooke Park project was one that kept the staff busy throughout the length of the build work.

“We were perfectly positioned locally to keep up a regular, and speedy, supply of materials, as and when needed,” said Sales Manager, Raymond Harkin.

“Because it was such a massive contract, that was even more important than usual.

“We were also able to provide added value with our expertise in related areas. For instance, the timber posts we supplied for the playground had to be treated and some need to be tapered.

Through our sister company, Cranwood Industries were able to provide this service.

“We supplied various other materials to the job - these products covered the whole site, from the sports hall to the gate lodge.

“Working closely with Site Manager, Mickey McCann, and the architects, we ensured they got the service and products they needed quickly and efficiently,” added Raymond. “It was also very rewarding to be able to play our part in the restoration of such beautiful park, which is very much part of our local heritage in Derry.”

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Skeoge Industrial Estate, Beraghmore Rd, Skeoge, Galliagh, Derry, BT48 8SE T: 028 7135 4888 - E: derry@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com BRANCHES AT: Banbridge • Belfast (Castlereagh) • Belfast (Duncrue) • Belfast (Kennedy Way) • Derry • Dublin (Balbriggan) • Dublin (Ballymount) • Dungannon • Lisburn • Newry • Newtownards

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 89

INSULATION

Kingspan Insulation Director, Jim Loughran, (second left) and Technical Manager, Alan Macklin (second right) pictured with Ulster Rugby players Marcell Coetzee, Robbie Diack and Charles Piutau.

CPD LAUNCH EVENT HIGHLIGHTS THE PREMIUM THERMAL PERFORMANCE FOR FLOOR, WALL AND SOFFIT APPLICATIONS…

Warm reception for Kingspan Insulation’s new Lower Lambda range

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he new Lower Lambda product range from Kingspan Insulation received a warm reception at an official launch event and CPD held at the Kingspan Stadium recently.

As well as meeting Ulster Rugby’s Marcell Coetzee, Robbie Diack and Charles Piutau and enjoying an Ulster Fry, guests took part in a CDP on the new Lower Lambda products by Kingspan Insulation’s Technical Manager, Alan Macklin.

The new and exciting Kingspan Kooltherm Lower Lambda range achieves a lambda value of just 0.018W/m.K. Kingspan Insulation has revolutionised its rigid insulation technology with the introduction

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of new low lambda products for floor, wall and soffit applications; delivering premium thermal performance with a minimal construction thickness.

The advanced composition of Kingspan Kooltherm lower lambda products ensures architects and builders now have even greater freedom to achieve spectacular designs, with inherently outstanding fabric performance, without having to compromise on internal living or working space.

The products are manufactured with a blowing agent that has zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and very low Global Warming Potential (GWP). The insulation boards are non-deleterious, easy to handle and install,

and are unaffected by air infiltration.

Jim Loughran, Kingspan Commercial Director, said, “At Kingspan Insulation, we are very passionate about product development and exceeding expectations.

We invest heavily in Research & Development.

“Our new lower lambda range adds another dimension to our product portfolio, allowing us to offer even higher value products from our already extensive range.”

For further information on the new Kingspan Lower Lambda Kooltherm range, call Kingspan Insulation Ltd on 00353 42 979 5000 or visit kingspaninsulation.ie/innovation

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ENERGY SAVINGS

FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE SET BY MJM MARINE AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF INTEREST FREE LOANS TO BOOST YOUR SAVINGS…

Could you be saving money on your energy bills?

A

s Winter closes in and the heating goes on, many businesses are looking at ways to reduce their energy bills.

Replacing inefficient lighting, heating, air conditioning units and refrigeration can be one of the best ways to do this.

Upgrading to more efficient equipment can pay back within a relatively short period of time, with the savings achieved on energy bills being used to offset the cost of the upgrade. And over the lifetime of the equipment, businesses can enjoy further yearon-year savings.

However, we know that many businesses struggle to come up with the upfront capital needed to pay for new equipment, even when they recognise the opportunity. The good news is that there is a great scheme which can help.

Interest Free Energy Efficiency Loans are available from the Carbon Trust using funds provided by Invest Northern Ireland.

Businesses can borrow between £3,000 and £400,000. These loans are interest-free and unsecured and are also designed such that in most cases the monthly energy savings should exceed the monthly repayments.1

CASE STUDY MJM MARINE LIMITED One business which has taken advantage of the Energy Efficiency Loan Fund to deliver real financial benefits is MJM Marine Limited, a family-owned company based in Newry, which has grown its operations internationally in the refurbishment of cruise liners, ferries, yachts and public buildings.

From its 100,000ft2 premises, MJM uses innovative manufacturing techniques and a range of materials including timber, laminates, stone, glass, fabrics and metal.

With energy costs one of the biggest overheads, MJM engaged an energy management company to identify ways to reduce the company’s bills to help it remain competitive in the market, and, as an environmentally conscious company, to reduce its carbon footprint.

The audit recommended replacing the current lighting with a more energy efficient solution.

The existing lighting comprised of older technology; mainly switch-start T8 fluorescents and high intensity discharge metal halide fittings. After considering several options, MJM Marine decided to

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install T5s due to the controllability of the luminaires by using movement and daylight sensors. Using integral sensors to harvest natural light from the skylights enables the new fittings to dim down, or ramp up, to maintain a pre-set lux level as daylight increases or decreases.

By replacing the existing T8s and 400w metal halides with T5s and 80w flo dimmable IP54s, the business is projected to reduce its annual kWh usage from 234,500 to 128,300 and save over £17,000 per annum on their fuel bills.

Abigail Hermon, Head of Loans at the Carbon Trust, said, “Staying competitive in an increasingly challenging market is going to become a bigger priority for businesses in Northern Ireland. With our help, there are costs businesses can reduce without

impacting their productivity.”

Peter Larmour, Invest NI’s Sustainable Development Manager, said “Over the course of the last three years, Northern Ireland businesses availing of 0% financial support to implement these projects have realised estimated annual savings in excess of £7.2m.”

For more information about the scheme, visit the Carbon Trust website at www.carbontrust.com/ni 1. Note that loans repayments will still need to be made, regardless of whether the projected savings are actually achieved.Terms and Conditions and eligibility rules apply. The Carbon Trust is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for consumer credit.

The Carbon Trust is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales (number 04190230) with its registered office at 4th Floor, Dorset House, 27-45 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NT. Representative example of a 0% APR loan: £12,000 loan over 48 months = monthly repayments of £250. Total repayable £12,000.

“The incentive of the interest free loan scheme made the decision to reduce our carbon footprint and lower energy bills by implementing our plans much easier. It also made it possible to action our cost reduction plans without tying up the cash flow of the business. From a company perspective, the application process was very straightforward, and we are currently working on renewable energy projects.”

Jude McCann, Operations Director, MJM Marine

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FMB NEWS

FMB NI CONTINUES TO GIVE MEMBERS THE EDGE AND NORTHERN BUILDER BRINGS YOU SOME OF THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS FROM THE ORGANISATION...

Last year’s Large Renovation winner.

Last year’s winner of the New Build category was a property in Dungannon by Forthill Builders.

FMB IS ENCOURAGING BUILDERS TO PUT FORWARD THEIR EXCEPTIONAL PROJECTS FOR THIS YEAR’S AWARDS…

Take your chance to enter the Master Builder Awards in Northern Ireland

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or more than 20 years, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has held the Master Builder Awards as a way of celebrating the outstanding work of smaller building firms across the UK. While SMEs are the backbone of the industry, accounting for 85% of employment and over 70% of output, sometimes the exceptional projects delivered by these smaller firms are underappreciated. All too often it is the larger construction projects that grab the headlines, yet the importance of high quality small-scale construction is vital.

The path towards the UK-wide awards ceremony in September 2017 starts with a regional contest in each of the FMB’s seven geographical areas. The winner in each of the 10 award categories will then progress to a glitzy final event held in London – the ceremony will be hosted by DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles.

Such is the high quality of the entries, FMB regional winners are outstanding examples of exceptional building in their own right!

The winner of Northern Ireland’s ‘New Home’ award in 2015 – Forthill Builders – perfectly demonstrate the degree of talent within our SME construction sector. Tasked with

delivering a beautifully designed custom build project situated in Dungannon, Tyrone, Forthill completed the zero carbon dwelling ahead of schedule, all while corresponding with the client, who was based in England, over Skype and e-mail throughout the duration of the build. Any project manager will be familiar with the difficulty of working with a client remotely, yet Forthill surpassed the home owner’s expectations in nearly every way, completing an aesthetically distinct, environmentally friendly residence to the highest level of specification.

Small doesn’t necessarily mean simple either.

On the contrary, being right in the thick of things can lead to real innovation through hands-on experience. Willie Moffitt, Director of Moffitt and Robinson Construction Ltd, delivered Northern Ireland’s first Passive House home in Omagh in 2012. Willie has now gone on to making energy efficiency his calling card. Unsurprisingly, he was the winner of FMB’s Northern Ireland Energy Efficiency category in 2015, delivering an exceptional standard of thermal comfort and energy efficiency as part of a three-story extension to a 17th Century listed hotel.

Such was the level of innovation in the project

that it was used as a case study for ‘Invest NI’, and the success of it helped establish Willie as one of the leading practitioners of energy efficient building methods in the province.

There are further categories that look to underline the unique achievements of SMEs. FMB rewards exceptional developing talent with an ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award, emphasising the crucial role smaller firms play in training the next generation. See the FMB website for a full list of categories.

The awards are free to enter and have the potential to provide fantastic free promotion for winners of regional or UK-wide awards.

Successful companies almost always receive extensive press coverage in their local newspapers and last year, the UK-wide winners were featured in the property pages of the Sunday Times and Sunday Telegraph!

There’s no better marketing tool for your firm.

So if you’re a member of the FMB, make sure you enter one of your recent projects.

If you’re not a member, you should consider joining the FMB so you can take advantage of the UK’s only dedicated awards aimed at showcasing the fantastic work of SME construction firms.

For more information on the Master Builder Awards or to download an application form, visit www.fmb.org.uk. Alternatively, contact FMB Northern Ireland on 028 9446 0416.

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NORTHERN BUILDER

Setting the Standard in roofing and waterproofing IKOflash is a modern alternative to Traditional Lead Flashing. IKOflash is a lead-free flashing material which is ideal for use in areas such as chimney and abutment flashings, rooflights and pitched valley linings. It is extremely easy to install and offers a modern alternative in situations where lead flashing would traditionally be used.

• • • • •

Lighter - 80% lighter than lead and easier to handle Faster - Rapid installation –up to 50% quicker Flexible - Can be worked and formed in the same way as lead Cost effective - No scrap or resale value therefore less risk of theft Environmentally friendly - IKOflash is non-toxic and recyclable

THIS PRODUCT IS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL waterproofing@iko-ni.com

BRANCH t. 028 9086 7079

www.iko-ni.com

BITUMINOUS MEMBRANES | COLD APPLIED LIQUIDS | HOT MELT MASTIC ASPHALT | SINGLE-PLY | PITCHED ROOF SYSTEMS INSULATION | STRUCTURAL WATERPROOFING & COMPOUNDS

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PUBLIC SECTOR TENDERS

ADAM HASSIN FROM NORTHERN BUILDER SPEAKS TO CHRISTINE DAVEY FROM CENTRAL PROCUREMENT DIRECTORATE (CPD) ABOUT THE ETENDERSNI PORTAL…

Finding Public Sector tender opportunities Q: So it’s been over a year since we first heard of the eTendersNI portal, how many enterprises have signed up, and does everyone know what it is?

A: eTendersNI is the Public Sector procurement portal for Northern Ireland.

It is where you’ll find all the central government and most local government tenders advertised. We launched the new portal in April, 2015, and already we have more than 8,600 suppliers registered.

Registration is free of charge for suppliers, and it is possible to select categories of procurement you are interested in, and then receive e-mail notifications when a relevant tender is published – so you won’t have to log in every week to check the list of tenders!

Q: Can a self-employed individual sign up to eTendersNI, or do you need to be a registered company?

A: To register your enterprise on eTendersNI you will need a D-U-N-S number. This is available free of charge from Dun & Bradstreet (www.dnb.co.uk) regardless of your size of business.

Working as a sole trader won’t stop you from competing for Government contracts – although you might need to start with the smaller contracts to build up experience!

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Q: Are Public Sector contracts in Northern Ireland a lucrative market for the construction sector?

A: In a typical year, contracts worth more than £500million are awarded for government construction works and services in Northern Ireland. 87% of these contracts are awarded to local suppliers, and this obviously provides a boost to our local economy – even more so given the multiplier effect of government expenditure in construction.

One thing to be aware of is that government isn’t just looking for the lowest priced tender – quality aspects are very important and, in fact, if a price submitted is considered to be unusually low compared to the others, the tender will be disqualified on the grounds that their pricing was subeconomic – that is to say that it wouldn’t have been possible to break even with that contract, and the contractor could get themselves into financial difficulty by taking it on.

Q: Is it just the larger construction companies that submit bids through eTendersNI? A: There are companies of all sizes winning construction works and services contracts with the NI Public Sector; however for the large projects there will usually be one

prime contractor appointed, and they subcontract out many elements of the work.

These contractors can use eTendersNI to advertise the sub-contracting opportunities, or they can use their own company website.

For the smaller construction companies that are interested in government contracts under £30,000 in value, the key thing is to be registered with Constructionline, as government procurement officials use their database to identify potential tenderers, and contact them directly.

Q: What advice would you give to a small business starting out to compete for public sector contracts?

A: Being a sub-contractor is a great way of gaining experience of working with the public sector without having to write any tenders! It will give you the opportunity to see if a public sector client suits your business.

If you are keen to start competing as a lead contractor, then decide who will write the tenders, and send them on the ‘Go-2-Tender’ workshop delivered by InterTradeIreland – this will ensure you have the practical skills to prepare and submit a competitive tender. Then keep an eye out for e-mails from eTendersNI!

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 97

WORKWEAR

JSP LAUNCHES VISILITE™ - FIBRE OPTIC LIGHTING FOR HELMETS...

Effective illumination for construction workers

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SP Ltd has launched a unique new lighting system for the company’s Industrial Safety helmets called the VisiliteTM. This fibre optic lighting system has been developed as a method of increasing worker visibility without dazzling colleagues in close proximity.

The VisiliteTM has tough ABS casings, making it highly durable to withstand knocks and scrapes and it is easy to fit to the JSP EVO® range of helmets with clips that slide onto the front sides and rear of the helmet to keep it in place, allowing fibre optic light to shine all around the helmet.

The VisiliteTM offers three lighting modes – static, fast flash or slow flash to suit the user’s needs and is visible up to 50m. LED lights shine low level light down the fibre optic which is refracted by the engraved logos on the flexible optic strip. The unit is USB rechargeable, comes with a Micro USB cable and can be charged whilst fitted to the helmet.

JSP’s Research and Department team commented that the VisiLite has been developed in reaction to certain customers who wanted to draw attention to their construction workers and to keep them visible on site.

More information is available from www.jsp.co.uk, by e-mailing uksales@jsp.co.uk or calling 01993 826050.

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PROJECT PROFILE

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

AN INTRODUCTION STEP INSIDE THE STUNNING NEW FACILITIES AT OMAGH’S SILVERBIRCH HOTEL… g

Silver service

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PROJECT PROFILE

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

OVERVIEW

NEW WEDDING, ENTERTAINMENT AND CONFERENCE FACILITIES AT SILVERBIRCH HOTEL PUT THE COMPANY’S CO-ORDINATION TALENTS TO THE TEST…

Dynamic delivery by Lowry Building & Civil Engineering

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he recent redevelopment of Omagh’s Silverbirch Hotel represents a £4million investment by the owners to consolidate its position as one of Northern Ireland’s leading wedding and conference venues.

The signature design was the vision of local architect Des Ferguson of Arch-aid Design, Omagh, who worked in collaboration with interior design firm, Audrey Gaffney Associates, to create the dynamic end result which has already received a William Keown Trust Accessibility Award.

Castlederg-based company Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd was entrusted with the construction contract, and has successfully delivered the new signature facility. The local company used its experience to co-ordinate its approved supply chain of specialist sub-contractors

on a phased programme of works, as it was critical to ensure that the hotel remained operational and open for business throughout the duration of the project.

Phase 1 saw the redevelopment and extension of the first floor Business Centre and construction and fit-out of Bertha’s new snug bar. Extensive demolition works to accommodate the erection of the steel framed, precast floored structure required the temporary relocation of oil and gas tanks and air conditioning units, all within a very confined working space, whilst maintaining power and services to kitchen areas for the duration of the project. Careful coordination of works achieved successful integration with the main building, and new stairwells provide dedicated access to the facility and link access from the hotel foyer.

The Business Centre now offers six

conference and meeting rooms, varying in size and shape to facilitate various layouts and delegate numbers, plus two additional ground floor function rooms for hosting business and corporate events.

The large dedicated reception area, finished in walnut and white corian, fronts a modern breakout area for refreshments, networking and casual meetings. Pin spotlighting has also been introduced to highlight the specially commissioned photography of ‘silver birch’ trees. Each conference suite offers the latest in-built audio-visual technology, lecterns with integrated controls and audio-induction/ hearing loop technology to assist those with hearing difficulties, plus complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.

Bertha’s Snug Bar location, behind the hotel’s main bar and grill area, required

“Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd has successfully delivered the new signature facility.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering.

close coordination of very confined construction and fit-out works which were scheduled at off peak periods to minimise disruption. Successful planned completion allowed this bar area to service functions in the temporary wedding pavilion during the construction phase of the new ballroom.

Phase 2 of works involved construction of the new-build Drumragh Suite which is accessed by its own dedicated foyer, encompassed by a distinctive wrap around outdoor terrace, and serviced by the new Courtyard Bar and its enclosed courtyard complete with TV screens to watch sports whilst enjoying the outdoor environment.

The new footprint required the demolition of the original function room area, so a temporary pavilion was erected to the rear of the hotel to accommodate bookings in the interim period.

Lowry Building worked in close collaboration with hotel staff to achieve the smooth integration of the pavilion with the main hotel.

Once vacation and demolition of the existing space was complete, excavations to create the lower ground basement space were carried out, foundations laid and the portal steel frame structure of the new ballroom erected. The traditional blockwork envelope

of the building was then faced with natural stone and timber panel feature sections, and enclosed with a specialised roofing system and aluminium windows and external door sets.

The dedicated foyer and outdoor terrace, which encompasses the circumference, is accessed by curved feature steps, all finished with granite paving, stainless steel and glass balustrading and feature lighting, creating the perfect red-carpet entrance for wedding parties.

The Drumragh Suite, which boasts exquisite interior design features like bespoke carpet, decorative framed wall panels, feature crystal chandeliers and a LED mood lighting system, is linked to the hotel kitchens by a dedicated servery area to streamline dinner service. It can also be divided for smaller parties by specialist sliding partition walls. The internal space, which can accommodate up to 450 seated guests, is serviced by its own ballroom bar as well as the self-contained Courtyard Bar, both fitted out with individually designed pewter and marble counter tops, not to mention the decadent bathrooms adorned with marble sinks and ornate gilt mirrors.

Phase 3 of the project delivered the lower ground floor level which houses Lola’s, a spacious versatile event space for private hire

and currently hosting a series of popular country music nights.

Reminiscent of Liverpool’s Cavern Club with exposed brickwork and low ceilings the room can accommodate up to 700 guests.

The lower ground floor was fully tanked and damp-proofed using a Fosroc system and integrated sump pumps as an additional safeguard. Also, in line with current environmental expectations, a 70,000 litre rainwater harvesting system has been installed to assist the hotel in fulfilling the water demands of its everyday operations.

To complete the project the main hotel foyer was upgraded with soft furnishings and decoration in keeping with the new interior design, and Lowry Building also revised the external layout to create essential extra car-parking spaces.

Project team...

Client: Silverbirch Hotel, Omagh Main contractor: Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd Architect: Arch-aid Design Interior Design: Audrey Gaffney Associates

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd, The Old Bank, 7 John Street, Castlederg, BT81 7AW. T: 028 8167 8646 – E: info@lowrybuilding.co.uk www.lowrybuilding.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 101

PROJECT PROFILE

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

AUDIO-VISUAL SYSTEMS

NC SOUND & COMMUNICATIONS PROVIDE A HIGH SPECIFICATION AUDIO-VISUAL SYSTEM THAT PROVIDES COMPLETE FLEXIBILITY…

Communication is loud and clear!

A

s a leading entertainment and wedding venue, the audio-visual systems at Silverbirch Hotel are

critical.

As part of the recent redevelopment, NC Sound & Communications worked closely with the hotel owners to ensure the expansive and specific AV requirements of the hotel were met.

The company focused on the new entertainment areas of the redeveloped hotel, providing a complete AV package that can operate individually or be integrated throughout the building.

This means that music in the main Drumragh Suite can not only be heard in its own dedicated foyer but also in Bertha’s Snug Bar and Courtyard Bar. Nigel Caldwell, owner of NC Sound & Communications, said, “We started with the design of the system along with supplying a full specification and CAD drawings for the installation. We followed this right through to the commissioning process and training

for staff on how to use the complete system.

“The focus from the outset was on flexibility, meaning that all the different aspects of the entertainment facilities can be seamlessly interlinked or divided up, as required.”

The interlinking not only includes the sound system but also the visuals that can be displayed across an array of HD TVs throughout the complex. The visual system is controlled by professional HD Matrixes.

The Canon projectors in the Drumragh Suite are full HD offering 7,000 Lumens and they project onto screens which can be retracted into the ceiling. The public address system produces a massive 20,000watts and is made up of professional brands like Tannoy, powered by lab gruppen, including hidden subwoofers, while using sennheiser microphones. The system will cover any eventuality, whether it is conferences, live bands or just background music.

The AV systems can be controlled together or separately by wall touchpads located throughout the venue or via iPads.

The work by NC Sound & Communications clearly met with approval, with the company set to install a complete sound system in the new underground entertainment venue, Lola’s.

The success of the Silverbirch Hotel adds to a growing list of projects by NC Sound & Communication.

The company works across a range of sectors, providing audio visual, stage lighting and camera recording solutions for school/theatre productions, corporate events, charity and sporting events, and also live streaming services. NC Sound & Communications also works extensively in the ecclesiastical sector, providing complete AV systems for churches.

Nigel added, “We hire, sell and install a range of systems and whether you require a public address/projector system, stage lighting for a hotel, a place of worship, or even a factory we have the knowledge and experience to deliver superior sound and visual quality to all listeners and viewers.”

NC Sound & Communications, Omagh, Co.Tyrone T: 07595337513 – E: admin@ncsound.co.uk www.ncsound.co.uk

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EXTERNAL WINDOWS AND DOORS A perfect start for Innovated Aluminium Technology

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he Silverbirch Hotel project in Omagh represented a major step forward for this new company. Only established this year, Innovated Aluminium Technology designed, manufactured and installed all of the external polyester powder coated aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling systems for the impressive extension to this popular hotel.

Leslie McClements, who founded the company, said, “It was a major feather in our cap to be awarded this contract from Lowry Building. It perfectly demonstrates our level of capabilities and showed that we can deliver a project of this size on program.”

While Innovated Aluminium Technology

may be a new name, it is one with a lot of expertise. With over 30 years’ experience within the industry, Leslie and his team are well placed to offer high quality architectural glazing systems to both the commercial and domestic markets.

Based in Eglinton the company works across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland with the hope to expand into the UK mainland in the future.

Leslie also added, “It is a big market and we believe we fill a niche for this type of service within Northern Ireland. We work closely with our system supplier Metal Technology Ltd and our focus at all times is to provide the highest quality systems to meet the current thermal regulations.”

Innovated Aluminium Technology, 4 Longfield Road, Eglinton, Co. Londonderry, BT47 3PY T: 028 7181 0829 E: info.iat@aol.co.uk

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER

P.McDermott & Sons Ltd is a reliable partner

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very project, regardless of size, requires a strong supply chain and for the Silverbirch Hotel, Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd turned to leading builders’ merchant, P.McDermott & Sons.

Based in Omagh, P.McDermott & Sons was well placed to ensure prompt delivery to the project, with the company supplying everything from sewer materials, structural timber, manhole covers and rendering materials through to insulation, plywood, plasterboard, cement, reinforcing mesh and general hardware.

Adrian McCanny, P.McDermott & Sons Ltd, said, “This project was running alongside a couple of other major projects that were

P.McDermott & Sons Limited, 11 Sedan Avenue, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT79 7AQ T: 028 8224 2066 – E: info@pmcdermottsomagh.com www.pmcdermottsomagh.com

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ongoing in Omagh at the same time, so it put the pressure on us.

“However, we have been in operation for over 35 years so we have vast experience in how to meet the specific demands of a project and ensure our customers receive the products they need, exactly when they need them.

“We pride ourselves on working closely with customers so we can provide the highest possible service. Working on such a high-profile project on our doorstep gives the project some added emphasis and we were delighted to be part of the successful team and to be again working with Lowry Building.”

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SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN Inspiring design by Audrey Gaffney Associates

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he responsibility of turning the owner’s vision into reality was the job of Audrey Gaffney Associates - and the company clearly delivered!

“We pride ourselves on having the ability to listen to customers and react to meet their requirements,” explained Audrey Gaffney.

“We want to create a timeless design rather than go for a trend that has a limited shelf life. At the Silverbirch Hotel, we were lucky to have owners who had clear ideas of what they wanted and also a superb team around us to ensure we could deliver such high standards.”

Audrey Gaffney Associates provided a range of services, including lighting design; tender drawings; procurement, analysis and cost management; photography; and project management. As well as having the overall vision, it was in the role as project manager

that the company was able to bring the many new elements of the hotel together.

“We started with the new business conference suite and then worked through to ‘Bertha’s’ new snug bar, the new foyer area, the courtyard bar, Drumragh Suite function suite and now we’re putting the finishing touches to the basement entertainment venue, Lola’s,” added Audrey. “Each area has its own distinctive feel yet effortlessly blends together to create a clear Silverbirch Hotel brand.”

As interior architects and design professionals with over 18 years’ experience, this awardwinning company has vast local, national and international expertise in delivering unique and luxury hospitality projects ranging from castles, hotels, nightclubs and restaurants, to listed buildings to new builds.

Audrey Gaffney Associates, Unit 1, Scurlockstown Business Park, Dublin Road, Trim, Co Meath, Ireland T: 00353 46 906 4190 – E: info@audrey.ie www.audrey.ie

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

HOLLOWCORE AND CONCRETE PLATE FLOORING & STAIRS Bespoke solutions from AG

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cheson & Glover (AG) provided extensive flooring and stairs solutions for the redevelopment of the Silverbirch Hotel.

The company supplied prestressed hollowcore flooring for the ground floors and new basement as well as concrete plate flooring which was used in the terrace areas.

AG also designed and supplied pre-cast concrete staircases for the project.

With the new Bertha’s Snug Bar, Lola’s entertainment complex, the Courtyard Bar and the Drumragh Suite function room all part of this new redevelopment, sound proofing was a high priority.

“This was a significant aspect of the project and the characteristics of our prestressed hollowcore flooring met these requirements

perfectly,” explained Dennis Kelly, AG’s Northern Ireland Flooring Manager. “As with all our products, the focus is very much on providing a bespoke solution.

Our designers and engineers collaborate closely with customers at every stage of the project.

“Also, because we manufacture off-site, we provide a cost-effective and efficient service that meets the build programme and, in addition, improve immediate access for site safety and efficiency. Working with AG means the whole process is faster, costeffective and far more efficient.”

“The characteristics of our prestressed hollowcore flooring met these requirements perfectly.”

Head Office – 11 Aghnagar Road, Tullyvannon, Ballygawley, Co Tyrone, BT70 2HW T: 028 8556 8441 – E: precast@ag.uk.com www.ag.uk.com

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ARCHITECT Distinctive design by Arch-Aid Design

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he Silverbirch Hotel project proved a bit of a juggling act for Arch-Aid Design, with the company having to consider a lot of different elements before creating what is an impressive transformation.

The new extension includes the Business Centre, Bertha’s new snug bar, the wedding facilities known as Drumragh Suite and the new entertainment complex, Lola’s. Each area is distinctive in its own right but had to be coordinated within the hotel’s overall offering.

Added to the challenge was a constricted site while the overall design was also influenced by the phased requirements of the build.

“We had to mindful that the hotel needed to remain operational, so we had to introduce elements to ensure the smooth transition between each phase,” explained Des Ferguson, company owner. “In a way,

that allowed us to treat each element individually, which has resulted in some very distinctive areas, while also focusing on ensuring they all integrated seamlessly.”

Des added that the influence of Allan Duncan, one of the hotel owners, was invaluable.

“We have worked on different aspects of the Silverbirch Hotel over the years and, since 2009, we have put together various design solutions for this extension, so we know this building inside out,” he said.

“However, Allan had very specific ideas and really drove the project forward, which made my life a lot easier.”

The Silverbirch Hotel joins an eclectic list of projects by Arch-Aid Design, that includes ecclesiastical, healthcare, residential, commercial and industrial work.

Arch-Aid Design, 25 Agnamoyle Road, Omagh, BT78 5JZ T: 028 8225 0071 E: des@arch-aid.net

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

PEWTER BAR COUNTER Rathbanna serves up a stunning pewter bar

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he stunning pewter bar counter at the Silverbirch Hotel is the work of expert craftsmanship by Rathbanna.

The work to create the Courtyard bar was another collaboration with Gfeller Specialist Joinery, with Rathbanna adding the bespoke pewter cladding to Gfeller’s timber-frame.

“We have worked closely with Todd Gfeller for many years and this project was another successful partnership,” explained James O’Neill, Sales and Esimator at Rathbanna.

“The bar at Silverbirch Hotel is totally unique, but we have also installed pewter bars at Lough Eske in County Donegal, Titanic Belfast and the Harp Bar in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.

“We work all over the UK and Ireland and, at the moment, we are working extensively in London, so it was nice to have something a

little closer to home.”

Established in 1895, Rathbanna is a familyowned company, with James the fourth generation of the O’Neill family to be part of the business.

“Over the years, there isn’t much we haven’t been asked to do,” added James. “We are the only specialists of this kind in Ireland and our ability to produce totally unique and bespoke metal designs is what sets us apart. The majority of our work comes from recommendation, which speaks for itself.”

As skilled craftworkers in metal, the experienced team at Rathbanna can work on all types of metal, including copper, brass, bronze, stainless steel, zinc and pewter.

In addition to bar counters, the company also offers staircases, railings/balustrading, ceilings and sculptures.

Rathbanna, 23 Derrinraw Road, Portadown, County Armagh, BT62 1UX T: 02838 851 281- E: sales@rathbanna.com www.rathbanna.com

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WALL AND FLOOR TILES Tiles provide a Creative touch

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Italian parquet porcelain wood.

he passion that the team at Creative Stone & Tile puts into every project is clearly evident at the Silverbirch Hotel.

The company worked closely with Audrey Gaffney Associates and the Silverbirch’s owners to ensure that the selected tiles complemented the overall design vision and concept. The different solutions provided by Creative Stone & Tile consisted of a staircase leading to the business centre (encompassing visually impaired tile solution); wall and floor tiles for the main reception areas; Bertha’s Snug Bar; and around all bar perimeters, lobbies and bathrooms.

“We work closely with all the leading Italian tile manufacturers, so we are able to provide a lot of choice,” explained Paul Bryan of Creative Stone & Tile. “The biggest challenge on this project was to find the balance

between presenting tiles that complemented the opulent style that the project demanded, but also met at least an R10 non-slip rating and easy-to-clean standards. Like so many others on this project, as an Omagh-based company we are proud to be associated with the Silverbirch Hotel.”

As well as delivering on Italian chic, some of the solutions from Creative Stone & Tile included Italian porcelain tiles with a wood parquet effect as well as many encaustic tile patterns around the bar areas and entrances.

Paul added, “Our focus is on design, quality and individuality. We are passionate about design, so we spend time selecting materials and developing concepts; knowing our products inside out from a technical perspective allows us to choose products that will suit a project’s exact specifications.”

Creative Stone & Tile, 43 Market Street, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT78 1EE T 028 8225 7673 – E: design@creativestoneandtile.co.uk www.creativestoneandtile.co.uk

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

BALUSTRADES Steps to success for RJ Engineering Ltd

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he stainless steel balustrades with both stainless steel and glass infills were designed and manufactured

by RJ Smyth Engineering Ltd. Like many of the sub-contractors on the project, RJ Smyth Engineering is an Omagh-based company, so for this project local pride was at stake.

“We enjoyed having to work on a project on our doorstep but regardless of whether it is in town or further afield, we always aim to deliver the same high levels of quality,” explained Raymond Alexander, Workshop Manager. “Our ability to provide bespoke solutions sets us apart and on this project we worked very closely with the architect to ensure their design requirements were met.”

Over the last three decades, RJ Smyth Engineering Ltd has forged a reputation as a leading supplier of fabrication and mechanical engineering systems. The company leads the way in the installation of specialist products and mechanical systems within the manufacturing; food and beverage; pharmaceutical; healthcare; retail and leisure; education; water/wastewater and renewable energy manufacturing industries. RJ Smyth Engineering Ltd also provides industrial/commercial HVAC services.

The company’s state-of-the-art 25,000sqft manufacturing facility ensures the company continues to deliver the high level of quality it is renowned for.

RJ Smyth Engineering Ltd, 112 Culbuck Road, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, BT78 5PY T: 028 82246700 - F: 028 82249705 – E: general@rjsmythengineering.com www.rjsmythengineering.com

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GRANITE PAVING AND STEPS Attention to detail by O’Neill Paving Ltd

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’Neill Paving Ltd installed the granite paving that has been used extensively around the new exterior at the Silverbirch Hotel, including the new granite steps.

Based in Greencastle, County Tyrone, the company has extensive experience on commercial projects and this was put to the test on this demanding project.

O’Neill Paving Ltd concentrates on all areas of hard landscaping, natural stone paving, driveways and patios, and you can choose from a wide range of products, styles and designs, ranging from contemporary block paving to the natural beauty of granite or sandstone blocks.

The company’s work ranges from large commercial contracts through to residential jobs in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland

and Great Britain.

With over 30 years’ experience, O’Neill Paving provides professionalism and a comprehensive quality of workmanship and paving services. All finishes are bespoke designs with your choice of materials, patterns and colour.

Michael O’Neill, Director of O’Neill Paving Ltd, said, “We work with customers to enhance the aesthetics of their property to create a truly beautiful and distinctive finish.

This not only adds value to your property but is an investment in your future.”

“We work with customers to enhance the aesthetics of their property to create a truly beautiful and distinctive finish.”

O’Neill Paving Ltd, 204 Greencastle Road, Greencastle, Co Tyrone, BT79 7RZ T: 028 8164 8584 or 07778 811648 - E: info@oneillpaving.com www.oneillpaving.com

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

DECORATIVE MOULDINGS Marvellous mouldings from Manor

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he attention to detail is evident throughout the redeveloped Silverbirch Hotel and that is reflected in the detailed cornicing and ceiling roses created by Manor Mouldings.

The company has a reputation for the high quality of its bespoke work and, as a leading provider of traditional interior plaster mouldings, Manor Mouldings was commissioned to create decorative features in the Drumragh Suite and its adjoining prefunction area.

“We worked closely with the architect to meet the exact specifications set and we are delighted with the final outcome,” said Gerard Doherty, Director.

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.

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.

The company is currently working on the new boutique hotel being developed at the former Harland & Wolff Headquarters building and Drawing Offices in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.

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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PROJECT PROFILE

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR Forward-thinking by Ian Short Plumbing & Heating

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he forward-thinking nature of Ian Short Plumbing & Heating was crucial to the success of the mechanical installation of this project.

With so many different phases, the focus of the Omagh-based plumbing and heating contractor was on thinking ahead to ensure each step moved seamlessly to the next. Initially, the company linked into the existing oil-fired heating system for the main function room – a move that came with the added complication of having to ensure the team didn’t interrupt the heating to the hotel, which remained in operation.

Ian Short Plumbing & Heating then installed a new air-conditioning throughout the new

bar and function areas alongside installed all the new bathrooms and a 70,000 litre rainwater harvesting system. Two integrated sump pumps have been installed in the new basement entertainment venue to avoid any issues with groundwater.

“We always had to think ahead to the next stage, so forward planning was essential,” said Ian. “It was a complex project and we have had a team on site since May working closely with the main contractor, Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd, who we have a strong relationship with.

“As an Omagh-based company, it was great working on a project so close to home and we are proud of the final result.”

Ian Short Plumbing & Heating Ltd, 124 Moylagh Rd, Beragh, Omagh, Co Tyrone, BT79 0TQ T: 028 8284 0779 - M: 07887 878166 E: ianshort@utvinternet.com

SILVERBIRCH HOTEL, OMAGH

PAINTING AND WALLPAPERING Precision work by D.Roulston & Sons

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he beautiful finishes touches throughout the redevelopment of the Silverbirch Hotel were added by D.Roulston & Sons.

Regardless of the size of the project, the company has a strong reputation for its attention-to-detail and that is evident at Silverbirch Hotel, where Dessie and his team worked closely with Audrey Gaffney Associates, the project’s interior designer and project manager, to meet some specific demands.

D.Roulston & Sons has been in operation since 2002, during which time it has built up a steady reputation for the skill and reliability of its workforce. As part of a family business, Dessie is proud to work alongside his sons Stephen and Gareth and

daughter, Sharon Scott.

Stephen has taken on the role of painting foreman, Gareth is foreman for the building maintenance side of the business, and Sharon provides the necessary office backup.

D.Roulston & Sons undertakes a wide range of paint jobs, from private residential to hotels and businesses and other organisations, including the Western Education Board and Oaklee Housing.

“Regardless of the size of the project, the company has a strong reputation for its attention-to-detail.”

D.Roulston & Sons, 21 Learmore Road, Castlederg, BT81 7RX T/F: 028 8167 9250 E: desroulston@aol.com

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BESPOKE STRUCTURAL BUILDING SOLUTIONS FROM YOUR PREFERRED TIMBER FRAME BUSINESS PARTNER SUSTAINABLE & ENVIRONMENTAL

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For more imformation call our team on

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Unitek Timber Systems Limited 1 Hallstown Road - Lisburn - Co. Antrim - BT28 2NE - Email: info@unitekltd.com

BRICKS

WITH A BOX-IN-A-BOX PRINCIPLE, THE QUARTIS BRICK FROM KINGSCOURT COUNTRY MANOR BRICKS HAS BEEN USED TO GREAT EFFECT ON THIS PROJECT…

Quartis brick enhances community spirit

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he outstanding Quartis brick – available from Kingscourt County Manor Bricks – has been used on the community centre ‘De Wiek’ in Zele.

The building includes an auditorium, administrative spaces and a space for artists and accompanying facilities.

The concept for the façade is a result of the general building concept that has been interpreted according to the box-in-a-box principle.

Architect Michel Zaan, ABSCIS architecten, explained, “The actual volume of the hall is visibly present throughout the building because of the shape, volume and red colour. This is surrounded by a second, more neutral shell. On the one hand, it has been made as transparent as possible

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because of the public character of the building. On the other hand, it still has the necessary closed space, because of the demand for wall space during exhibitions.”

RELIEF IN THE FAÇADE The architect opted for a brickwork construction, as this would integrate best with the buildings in the neighbouring area.

Given the scale of the building, the façade surfaces are very large.

“A special, protruding header bond becomes very striking, causing a play of shadows in the relief of the façade. This makes the surface of the most prominent façade softer, “added Michel Zaan.

The same brickwork bond has been applied to the south and west façade. Only here the header bonds have been omitted, resulting in a façade with a decorative openwork bond. The south façade acts as sun protection and as a privacy screen for the windows at the back.

On the west façade, the openings in the brickwork bond serve as ventilation for the underlying techniques. In order to show the brickwork bond to its best advantage, the architect chose a uniform light-grey colour and went for Quartis brick.

Quartis brick is manufactured by Vandersanden, the largest brick-producing family business in Europe. Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks is the sole distributor of Vandersanden bricks in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

For more information on Quartis brick contact distributor Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks on 028 9077 7321, e-mail info@kcmb.co.uk or visit kcmb.co.uk.

Alternatively, visit the showroom at 12 Herdman Channel Road, Belfast,BT3 9LG.

Project team…

Architect: ABSCIS architecten, Ghent (BE) Contractor: Dero Construct, Zele (BE) Vandersanden facing bricks: Quartis Bonds: A combination of block bond and a decorative openwork bond Dimensions of facing bricks: Two courses in module size 50, tilted headers (header = short side of facing brick) in thick size

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ROOFING

MANAGE RISK AND COMPLY WITH CDM 2016 BY SELECTING AN ALTERNATIVE TO HOT WORKS ON ROOFING PROJECTS…

Cold systems dampen the need for hot works!

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he Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 came into effect on August 1, 2016. Whatever your role is in construction, CDM 2016 aims to improve health and safety within the industry. One of the most notable changes in the roles is that the CDM coordinator will be replaced by the Principal Designer.

A Principal Designer is defined as a designer appointed by the client in projects involving more than one contractor and they must plan, manage, monitor and co-ordinate health and safety in the preconstruction phase of a project, including identifying, eliminating or controlling foreseeable risks.

The Principal Designer must be knowledgeable of the construction industry and have the relevant skills to oversee health and safety – this may be the Architect, Building Surveyor or another design team member.

FORWARD THINKING

MANAGING RISKS Whilst working at height and burns are the most obvious hazards with roofing works, they are far from the only dangers that the

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Principal Designer needs to consider.

If considering hot applied systems, burn injuries and fire risks also have to be considered. However, these can be eliminated straight away by choosing cold applied systems.

It is important to remember that the risk of hot works is not only a health and safety threat to the operatives, but could also have implications for the building, its contents and its users, particularly during refurbishment projects. The damage that even a minor fire can cause from flames, smoke, water and foam is both costly and disruptive.

In order to manage safety on site, a contractor using hot works may have to control access into and around the building and dedicate someone to perform a fire watch long after the works cease each day in case of smouldering embers igniting the roof.

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Traditionally, hot works have been a feature of roofing projects because there was no alternative. The UK and Ireland’s flat-roofed building stock is

characterised by bituminous systems. For many refurbishments the default setting for designers is to select a ‘like-for-like’ roof covering, with patch repairs and/or an overlay of a system requiring hot works.

There is now a wide array of cold applied systems available giving designers many zero-flame options to consider, thus reducing risk.

Sika offers a choice between liquid applied Sikalastic (also known as Decothane) systems and single ply roofing systems such as Trocal or Sarnafil. Sika’s liquid applied and single ply membrane systems can be used for warm roof, cold roof and ballasted applications giving the designer multiple reduced risk roof system options that also offer durable, robust and reliable waterproofing protection.

New technology As market leaders in liquid applied and single ply membranes, Sika is constantly researching and developing systems to address common problems faced when trying to waterproof roofs and associated parts of the structure.

Some examples of the new systems are outlined below: ‘Sikalastic Rapid’ - its function is to quickly waterproof high traffic areas e.g. walkways and balconies. This system can cure in 3040 minutes allowing the area to be handed back quickly.

‘Sikalastic Low Odour’ – this was developed to service sensitive areas where odours from liquid membranes can be a problem such as in hospitals, schools and food production premises.

‘Sarnafil Self Adhered’ - single ply membrane and a range of spray applied adhesives for bonding membranes and insulation boards are now also being used to increase speed of application.

With all the challenges that you face in selecting a suitable roofing system for either new build or refurbishment project, please contact us today to make use of our expertise. We can review your design brief, and provide you with a low risk zero flame solution to suit your project requirements. Furthermore, with a network of trained and approved contractors and Sika Field Technician site support, our aim is to ensure that not only are our systems safer propositions but they will be competently installed, again helping to reduce risk.

For more information on Sika, telephone 028 9336 5868, e-mail mccullough. barry@ie.sika.com or visit the website at www.sika.ie/roofing

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 113

MORTAR

INTRODUCING THE INNOVATIVE NEW SMART MORTAR ADHESIVES FROM SIMPSON STRONG-TIE - THE FIRST CHEMICAL MORTAR TO CHANGE COLOUR AS IT CURES…

A colour change with a difference

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here’s no need to guess when to start loading studs in masonry or concrete, because Simpson Strong-Tie’s latest fast curing range of mortar resins change colour from blue to grey as they set. So you’ll know at a glance.

Simpson Strong-Tie Sales Director, Jon Head, said, “We’re pleased to announce our new range of mortar resins, which offer some great features to make the job simpler for builders. Our general purpose Poly-GP is ideal for solid or hollow block masonry, and our AT-HP high performance resin is approved for use in threaded rod and rebar concrete.”

Jon continued, “Both mortars cure in as little as 20 minutes, and being styrene free, they don’t give off any nasty odour. What’s more, each cartridge comes with two mixing nozzles - another breath of fresh air!”

Simpson Strong-Tie has also introduced another innovation - the timber frame panel closer, or TFPC. This useful connector provides the quickest

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and most accurate way of drawing together timber frame panels and eliminating gaps – and that’s important, because those gaps contribute to air leakage and insulation issues.

The TFPC features an angled plate which guides a structural screw (included) into the adjacent timber frame panels at precisely the angle necessary to pull them together to form an air tight bond, with the added benefit that it won’t damage the substrate.

The special design of the screw cinches the panels together and gives 3kN of shear capacity – keeping them that way.

Simpson Strong-Tie Timber Frame expert, Fraser Pilkington, explained, “It seems such a simple solution, but we put a great deal of thought into making it easy to use, with no room for error. The combination of the guide plate and screw achieves exactly that.”

The TPFC is supplied as a kit, which includes the guide plate, structural screw and two square twist nails.

A full range of tools and accessories is also available from Simpson Strong-Tie including threaded rods, pumps, brushes and applicator guns.

For demonstration videos of the TFPC or for more information on the Simpson Strong-Tie range, visit www.strongtie.co.uk

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