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STATE-OF-THE-ART THREE SCREEN CINEMA IN THE HEART OF GALWAY CITY
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COMMENTS 14 NHBC Seminars launched to highlight external wall issues 15 Agile lessons from Yoga – Michelle LaBrosse, Cheetah Learning 16 Are you at risk of being frame(work)ed? Sarah E Phillips Solicitor, Thomas Eggar LLP 17 Peter Sheridan, Sheridan Gold LLP, looks at Adjudication and Limitation, the supreme court ruling 18 Ben Dyer, CEO Powered Now shares ideas on how to get the most from your leads 19 The benefits of radiator cabinets within Care Homes 20 Amanda Caton of the British Security Industry Association explores the changing requirements of construction sites 22 Emotionally intelligent roadwork signade trialled to improve road safety. Paul Manchester, Director of Manchester Safety Services 23 eveloping your BIM Implementation Plan by Quadrasol 24 How off site construction can address skills shortages and housing stocks 25 Alternative Route 26 Put your Bank in the spotlight to get a better deal. Ben Martin, CEO of bmbal 36 Property Care Association
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TRANSPORT
Publications Editor Victoria Lee Operations Manager Gareth Trevor-Jones Designer Richard Gill Publications Officer Matthew Brown Robert Atherton Approvals Sarah Smith Eleanor Matthews Sales Administrator Alecia Rowe Credit Control Carol Ryan
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28 Fluctuating fuel prices aren’t just a fleet-ing matter. By Jenny Powley, Sales Director Corporate Business, RAC Business 30 Shortlist for 2015 Low Carbon Champions Awards reflects innovation in green transport 32 Gadi Lenz, Chief Scientist at AGT International looks at how video analytics will drive Smart Highways 34 Networks for thenext generation
COMMERCIAL 38 Terex GB expands operations in Northern Ireland
CIVIL 39 Balbriggan & Skerries Sewerage Scheme 40 Donegal Wind Farm reaches financial close 45 Killyhevlin Water Treatment Works
COMMUNITY
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42 Ards & North Down Borough Council Public Realm Scheme.
HOUSING 44 Coachyard Avenue, Enfield
EDUCATION 46 St Angela’s College, Co Cork
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CI NEWS
Planning backlog being removed Planning applications in Belfast, caught up in a backlog as powers were transferred from the Department of Environment to the City Council, are to be freed after a new arrangement was agreed by members of the council’s Planning Committee. Nearly 800 ‘legacy’ planning applications were transferred to the Council with the reform of local government in April. While it has now been reduced to 450 the backlog has still to be cleared to ensure the processing of all applications in a timely manner. ‘Legacy’ applications will now be approved by the Chair and Vice Chair of the Planning Committee
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in conjunction with the Town Solicitor and planning officers. However councillors, who will receive a list of outstanding ‘legacy’ applications for consideration, may request that individual applications from within their own District Electoral Areas are brought to committee for approval. Chairman of the Planning Committee, Councillor Matt Garrett, said: “We want to provide as good a service as possible to everyone in Belfast and this decision is a means of tackling the backlog. “We hope to ease the situation for all those who have been waiting for some time to undertake work but also to speed up the process for those
who have made recent applications. “Planning is an important element in shaping our city, boosting economic and social development or just improving the lives of individuals so it is essential that it is not dragged out unnecessarily. “Councillors can still highlight applications where local concerns are a priority so I think this is good news for everyone involved,“ added Councillor Garrett.
Minister Humphreys announces e735,000 for completion of Galway Picture Palace The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced that she is allocating e735,000 to Galway City Council to ensure the completion of the Galway Picture Palace. The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has agreed a partnership approach with Galway City Council which will see the Picture Palace completed and open to the public. Galway City Council will project manage the venture to completion, and will also contribute to the completion of the project. Minister Humphreys said: “I am delighted that we have agreed a plan to ensure the successful completion of the Galway Picture Palace project. A partnership arrangement between my Department, Galway City Council and
Solas Picture Palace Ltd will ensure that there will soon be a new three screen cinema in the heart of Galway City. “This will come as a significant boost to Galway, which of course is one of this country’s main cultural hubs. The State has already invested considerably in the Picture Palace project, so I am very pleased that its future has been secured. When completed, the Picture Palace will be a state-of-the-art three screen cinema, complete with a cafe and book shop. Located close to the historic Spanish Arch and just a stone’s throw from the Mick Lally Theatre, the Picture Palace will be a great addition to Galway’s vibrant cultural scene. “My Department will now work with Galway City Council to bring this project to completion. Galway already has a lively
and growing film and TV industry, worth in the region of e72M to the local economy and employing over 600 people full time. This was given worldwide recognition last December when Galway became one of just five cities worldwide to be awarded the highly prestigious and permanent title of UNESCO City of Film. The completion of the Picture Palace should help to cement Galway’s reputation as a film hub. “I would like to acknowledge the work and support of Galway City Council, which will be a crucial partner in bringing this project to fruition. My Department will continue to work closely with the City Council in the coming months to ensure
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CI NEWS
Dublin comeback kid of European office markets Dublin saw the most significant rise in office rents in Europe in the first half of 2015, boasting rental growth of 25% in the last six months; according to Colliers International’s Office Snapshot for H1 2015. Other cities that saw significant rises in rents were Belfast, Bratislava, Manchester and Lisbon. Paul Finucane, Director in Colliers International’s Business Space team, Dublin said: “For the past 12 months Dublin has shown its office market is on the up, due to a confident market, strengthening economy and shortage of good quality space that is likely to continue.” The evolution of office rental values in the first six months of 2015 has been in keeping with a generally more benign economic environment, according to Colliers. Particularly in Western Europe, more markets are slowly moving into rental growth territory, and where market fundamentals are supportive, rents continue (or are poised) to increase, underpinned by generally tight supply conditions at this point of the cycle. Report Highlights: • Germany saw moderate increases in Berlin (+1.9%) and Frankfurt (+1.3%) amid an otherwise relatively flat market. In Paris, prime CBD rents remained unchanged, but with a continuing, if not increasing, disconnect between headline and effective rents.
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• In the UK, occupational market strengthens further. Prime office rents grew in the City of London (+3.8%), Belfast (+6.9%), Manchester (+4.6%), Edinburgh (+3.6%) and Bristol (+1.8%), while they were stable in London West End and Birmingham. • Within Benelux, rental growth remains mainly confined to Amsterdam’s prime office district (South Axis) where prime moved up a notch (+1.4%) against a polarised backdrop. Prime office rents were unchanged in Brussels. • In Southern Europe, prime office rents continued to increase in Barcelona (+2.8%) and Madrid (2%), with signs in this latter city of upside pressures starting to build also outside the CBD. Even greater significance were the increases in Lisbon (+4.0%) and Milan (2.5%) given the more precarious, but improving, state of the Portuguese and Italian economies, even if prime rents slid marginally in Rome (-0.6%). • In CEE, rents remained largely unvaried except in Bratislava (+6.9%) following the delivery of new product. Corrections were seen in Kyiv (-6.5%), St Petersburg (-6.4%), Warsaw, (-4.2%) and Minsk (-5.9%), with a combination of short-term supply unbalances (Warsaw) and weak economy (Russia, Ukraine) as primary explanatory factors. Bruno Berretta, Senior Research Analyst, Colliers International said: “Provided that
the Greek situation (and the handling of it) doesn’t derail the economic recovery, in the next 12 months we anticipate rents to continue to reflect the recent economic dynamics. Increases are expected in Dublin, all the key UK office markets and parts of Southern Europe (Madrid, Barcelona, Milan and Lisbon), even if mostly confined to key office areas in the latter region.” “In Southern Europe, the search for yield and a more upbeat outlook have prompted investors to venture deeper. The region’s key office centres have seen pricing adjust accordingly: in the first six months of the year, prime office yields hardened by 30 bps in Milan and Rome and by 25 bps in Madrid and Lisbon.” Colliers International’s Office Snapshot H1 2015 shows rents are likely to fall in the Eastern fringe of the continent, in Moscow and St Petersburg (Russia) and Kiev (Ukraine).
Property Developers!!
Respond! Housing Association offers its assistance in the design and provision of much needed housing in Ireland. Respond! Housing Association, a leading provider of Integrated Housing in Ireland - having built over 5,300 dwellings nationally - offers its inhouse design, planning expertise and development assistance to Property Developers to respond positively to the housing needs of families and communities across the country. We invite Property Developers to work with us cooperatively in a “housing construction collaboration”, towards the provision of housing of all tenure types.
Contact:
Mr. Liam Fewer, Production Manager, Respond!, Airmount, Waterford Tel: 0818-357901 Email: liam.fewer@respond.ie www.respond.ie Respond! is unique as a Housing Association in Ireland in having had its own inhouse Planning and Design department for most of its 33 years in operation.
St. John’s College, Waterford St. Johns College dates back to the 19th century and was a seminary up until its closure in 1999. It was bought by Respond! from the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore in 2007. It is a listed building which status Respond! has respected in its plans. The project was designed by and currently being project managed by Respond!’s own in-house Property Services Team. The whole redevelopment will provide a fitting and resourced location for some 68 older persons and Respond! will work very closely with the City Council to assess all applications from prospective residents as the construction comes to a finish towards the end of 2015. The original planning permission also granted the provision of a medical facility, but unfortunately the Health Service Executive had alternative plans. The total project costs will come to just €12 million. Some €8 million of this will be made available in state mortgages to Respond! from Waterford City Council through the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. The remaining €4 million will be provided by Respond! of which some €2.25million will come in a private borrowing initiative from the AIB Bank. This lending initiative by the AIB was the first of its kind for social housing in Ireland. The College building itself will house 21 self-contained apartments and an 11 unit group home for older persons with a supporting Day Centre and Communal Facilities. Respond! is also constructing 36 new-build one-bed apartments on the site parallel to The Folly road, also for older persons. Mythen Brothers of Longraigue, Foulksmills, Co. Wexford were the successful tendering contractors and construction on site began in the middle of March, 2014.
CI NEWS
Aran Islands take action to eliminate fossil fuel dependence The Aran Islands are taking significant action to become energy independent, with 63% of the Islands’ buildings already upgraded. Alex White TD – Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources – recently visited Inis Mór to see progress to date on several energy projects. The island community has partnered with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to deliver a range of communityled action, and supporting analysis by SEAI has verified that the goal of carbon neutrality by 2022 is entirely achievable. Three hundred and fifty three homes and community buildings, representing twothirds of buildings on the Islands, have completed energy upgrades with support from SEAI, improving insulation levels and installing efficient heating systems. This is resulting in more comfortable homes and lower energy bills with annual energy savings of e250,000 accruing to the Islanders. A trial of electric vehicles in partnership between the community and SEAI also demonstrated how transport fuel needs can be dramatically reduced. Analysis shows that energy imports could be reduced even further by replacing
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heating systems with heat pumps powered by wind or wave energy in the future. Commenting during his visit, Minister White said: “The Aran Islanders’ ambition to become carbon neutral has already delivered many benefits to the islands. Energy efficiency and renewables will be at the core of the energy White Paper, which I will publish in the autumn. I think the vision set out for the Aran Islands could be replicated to maximise energy efficiency and the use of renewables in communities across the country. This would help us to secure an affordable, lowcarbon energy future with minimal reliance on expensive imported fossil fuels.” Brian Motherway, CEO of SEAI, who also visited the islands said: “Communities working together is the most effective way to bring about meaningful and lasting change. The Aran Islands are leading the way to show how communities can stop wasting money on imported fossil fuel and become truly sustainable and self-reliant. This also brings immediate benefits in terms of quality of life and lower energy bills.” Dara Ó Maoildhia, Chairman of
Comharchumann Fuinnimh Oileáín Árann Teoranta (Aran Islands Renewable Energy Ltd), in welcoming Minister Alex White, said that the vision of the Aran Islands becoming carbon neutral could not be achieved without the full support of the Government and of SEAI. Dara said: “The Aran Islands community needs a strong partnership with government, the SEAI, and other agencies to realise its ambition. There are many challenges to achieving what is an ambitious vision, but I’m confident that this offshore community working closely with Government and key partners will achieve its goals.” The tour of the Island was coordinated by Energy Co-operatives Ireland (ECI). Mr Cormac Walsh, CEO, said: “ECI have now established five energy co-ops throughout Ireland. Each one of these is creating jobs and enabling communities to take control of their own energy use. Every community in Ireland can achieve the same goals as the Aran Islands. Together with RESCOOP, our European partners, and ICOS, we are rolling out a national network of community -owned energy co-ops that can transform the Irish energy sector to the benefit of all.”
Industrial Info Resources expands in Galway Minister for Business and Employment at the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Ged Nash TD, and Ed Lewis, CEO of Industrial Info Resources, have officially opened the Company’s new office in Ballybrit, Galway. Industrial Info Resources (IIR) was founded in 1983 and is headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas. IIR performs fact based market research on the industrial processing, heavy manufacturing and energy related industries worldwide and offers Knowledge Management Solutions to companies that sell products and services to these industries. The Galway operation has been designated as the Company’s international hub, with responsibility for all markets outside the Americas. A number of new initiatives – including expanding market coverage for offshore oil and gas, pharmaceutical and biotech, and industrial manufacturing industries, as well as market analytics, financial shared services, international marketing and customer support – has resulted in the Company’s decision to add 50 new jobs over a five year period effectively doubling its workforce from when it was first established in Galway in 2010. The investment is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through IDA Ireland. IIR provides value for customers by gathering, confirming, disseminating and updating information about industrial
plants and their spending activities around the world so that they can make timely and intelligent business decisions. Their researchers contact plant owners, engineering and construction firms and equipment vendors to identify and confirm information on industrial assets and spending opportunities that is then disseminated in a powerful web-based solution. Since IIR has been in Ireland, the Company has increased its global coverage by 489% representing over 92,000 current active projects with a total project value of over 13Tn USD. Speaking at the Company’s offices in Galway, Minister Nash said: “The announcement by Industrial Info Resources that they are to double their workforce, creating 50 new jobs, is fantastic news for Galway and a real vote of confidence from the company in the county. As the Government strives to ensure that the jobs recovery is felt in every region of the country, IIR is a concrete example of how a talented workforce, business friendly policies and good working environment can entice and retain leading companies. I wish Ed and his team here in Galway every success as they expand.” Commenting on the announcement Ed Lewis, CEO of IIR said: “For the past six years that we’ve been in Ireland, our Company has expanded rapidly across the world and our Galway operation has been instrumental to our fast growth. I’m
very excited about our future in Galway and look forward to long-term success as we move forward from here.” Welcoming the announcement Martin Shanahan, CEO IDA Ireland said: “It is always very gratifying to hear of a company that has set up in Ireland having been successful enough to develop and grow its operations and workforce as IIR is doing at its international hub in Galway, significantly expanding its office space and doubling its workforce. It’s a great endorsement of Galway and the West as an excellent location for global business services companies to locate in. In our new strategy Winning - Foreign Direct Investment 2015-2019 we set out to achieve a greater regional spread of foreign direct investment and this announcement adds to the uplift in investment we’ve seen already this year.”
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CI NEWS
Ireland one step closer to having a new world-class children’s hospital The planning application for the new children’s hospital was submitted to An Bord Pleanála. This follows the appointment of an internationally acclaimed design team last August. Overseen by the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board (NPHDB), the design team – led by renowned children’s healthcare architect firm, BDP with Irish partners O’Connell Mahon Architects (OCMA) – has carried out intensive work over the past 12 months. The plans submitted include those for the new children’s hospital as well as for the two Paediatric OPD and Urgent Care Satellite Centres planned at Tallaght Hospital and Connolly Hospital. There were over 1,000 hours of engagement and consultation with staff from the existing three children’s hospitals, the clinical leads in paediatric specialities, with families, young people and children who are former or current users of the service, as well as with residents from the local Dublin 8 area. This extensive consultation process has led to the
development of a world class building which has been designed to enable staff to deliver the best possible clinical care for children and young people, while also seeking to provide a pleasant environment for staff and families. Minister for Health, Mr Leo Varadkar TD said: “Today is an important milestone on the road to building our long-awaited world class new National Children’s Hospital. The plans are spectacular and the design is iconic. It will be the largest single investment in healthcare in Ireland ever and subject to planning permission work will be well underway in the New Year.” Eilísh Hardiman, Chief Executive of the Children’s Hospital Group said: “Today we are one step closer to having a new world class children’s hospital in Ireland. The designs for the hospital and satellite centres submitted to An Bord Pleanála are wonderful and have been optimised to ensure that services are delivered in the best possible environment, so that we can ensure the best clinical
outcomes for children and young people. It is another step on the road to bringing services in the three children’s hospitals together under one roof for the first time.” Speaking about the submission of the planning application, John Pollock, Project Director, NPHDB said: “This has been a challenging and exciting process. To have the opportunity to oversee the Design and Build of a facility that will positively impact on the lives of children and their families for generations to come is quite overwhelming yet extremely rewarding. Over the last number of months we have listened to the needs of the staff in the hospitals and integrated them with the needs of families and children to deliver a design that works for all. At all times, we have also taken the views and concerns of local residents into account and believe that we have designed plans for a building of which everyone can be very proud.”
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Storey launches new £3M housing scheme in Rathcoole Social Development Minister, Mervyn be constructed here at Deerfin Park homes for over one hundred people.” Storey MLA, has visited the site are a further demonstration of Helm The new homes comprise 18 two- and of a new social housing scheme Housing’s commitment to building three-bedroom semi-detached family at Deerfin Park in Rathcoole. neighbourhoods and creating thriving, houses, eight two-bedroom apartments Work is now underway at the new empowered communities. Helm Housing for active older people, three oneHelm Housing development, which will has and will continue to work closely with bedroom apartments for singles and provide 18 semi-detached houses and 12 local community stakeholders and this couples, and one two-bedroom wheelchair apartments for families and older people. development will build on that work as adapted apartment for complex needs. The two-storey apartments, eight of we play our part in delivering first class which are designed specifically for active older people, are on schedule to complete in April 2016, with the family housing Specialists in Roofing, Cladding & Rainscreens due to complete in August 2016. Minister Storey said: “One of my key priorities is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to access good quality, affordable accommodation appropriate to their needs. This is an excellent new housing scheme, with a well thought out mix of homes Grange Construction & Roofing is one of the Ireland’s that will cater to a wide range of leading industrial and commercial needs. It will make significant roofing contractors Grange inroads into the waiting list in this area of high housing need.” Construction & Roofing have long The total scheme cost will association with Collen be in the region of £3M. Construction. Working with them The Department for Social over the past 10 Years. Development will fund £1.7M in housing association grant through the Housing Executive and Helm Housing will contribute £1.3M Kingspan HQ Cavan through private borrowing. The Bullring Birmingham Specialising in new homes are being built to high energy efficiency specifications. • Roofing The Minister added: “Helm • Cladding systems Housing is to be congratulated for all their work in putting together • Green walls this impressive housing package. I also want to thank the Northern • Rainscreens Ireland Housing Executive for contributing the surplus site.” Michael McDonnell, Chief Mount Sackville Secondary School Executive of Helm Housing Grange Roofing offer commercial said: “The 30 new homes to and industrial roof maintenance contracts throughout Ireland at competitive rates. We also conductNavan, detailed Co. roofing Grange, Bective, Meath Dew Valley surveys helping to identify Tel: 046 - potential 9021468 Fax: 046 problems at an early - 9073785 stage. We offer roofing repair services for industrial and Audi North - Dublin commercial roofs and are also happy to provide quotations to new customers.
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CI NEWS
Public and private sectors combine to build new play park for Ballyfermot The Matheson Foundation, in partnership with Dublin City Council and the Irish Architecture Foundation, is to fund a project to Design and Build a new Play Park in Ballyfermot. The Play Park will combine a play area and skate/ BMX park, delivered through a process of high quality public engagement. The concept of a Play Park originated from discussions between the Matheson Foundation and the Irish Architecture Foundation (IAF). This aligns with the Matheson Foundation’s objectives of helping children in Ireland fulfil their potential and promoting corporate philanthropy in Ireland, and the IAF’s aims to utilise its skills and expertise to create community led design projects in the public realm. The IAF, working with Dublin City Council, will employ a ‘People First’ process to encourage the community
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to engage with the development of the park. This ‘People First’ process aims to ensure a greater sense of ownership in order to meet the needs of the young people of Ballyfermot. It is hoped the consultation process will be completed by January 2015 and the construction of the Play Park will go out to tender in March 2016. The project will be fully realised by December 2016. Commenting on the launch of this project, Turlough Galvin, Chairperson of the Matheson Foundation, said: “The development of the Play Park in Ballyfermot will give the local children a safe and stimulating environment in which to grow and play together. We are pleased to be involved in this project which brings together a unique partnership in The Matheson Foundation, the Irish Architecture Foundation and Dublin City Council.
We hope this will encourage other Irish organisations to embark on similar philanthropic activities.” Leslie Moore, City Parks Superintendent at Dublin City Council, said: “The Matheson Foundation is setting a standard for philanthropic contribution to play infrastructure which is so important for children, families and community development. Dublin City Council is delighted to be a partner in this exciting new collaboration”. Nathalie Weadick, Director of the Irish Architecture Foundation, said: “We had been looking for a project that combined the IAF’s experience in delivering high-end architecture projects in the community with The Matheson Foundation’s philanthropic remit. When Dublin City Council came on board and suggested Ballyfermot as the location everything fell into place quite quickly.”
Minister Alan Kelly turns sod on new 24-bed development Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Alan Kelly officially turned the sod on a new 24bed development at Nenagh Hospital. The project overall represents a circa E4.6M capital investment by the HSE and a further E270,000 investment by the Friends of Nenagh Hospital. The building works contract for the development has recently been awarded to Manley Construction following a public procurement process. Construction work is due to commence on site next week and the development, which will take 20 months in total to complete, will see both a new extension as well as a major refurbishment of the existing male medical ward, effectively trebling in size the footprint of this current inpatient medical ward facility. The work will be carried out in two phases. Phase I will see the construction of a new extension which will include 16 new high specification single occupancy en-suite rooms and take approximately 12 months to complete. Phase II of the development will then see the refurbishment of the current male medical ward space to provide a further eight beds in four new double occupancy ensuite inpatient
rooms along with other ancillary spaces including administration offices, staff facilities and ward storage areas. A two room suite which forms part of the Phase I extension is being provided as a result of the support of the Friends of Nenagh Hospital and is intended to be known as the “Gloster Suite” in memory of the late Alice Gloster who generously left funding in her will to the group. Speaking at the sod turning, Minister Alan Kelly said: “Nenagh Hospital has continued to provide crucially important services to the people of north Tipperary and its environs since 1936. This significant new investment which is in line with Government policy and the Framework for Securing the Future of Smaller Hospitals, is a vote of confidence that Nenagh will continue to provide the best possible care for its patients for a considerable time to come. I would also like to thank the Friends of Nenagh for their valued contribution to the development.” Colette Cowan, CEO, UL Hospitals Group also thanked the Friends of Nenagh for their continued support at Nenagh Hospital. Ms Cowan commented: “Our patients are at the centre of everything we do and this development will help to
provide the best possible care for them whilst adhering to the highest standards of infection control and patient care possible in a modern facility. Today’s event represents another step in a programme of significant investment by the HSE in Nenagh. Our recent opening of the new E6.5M surgical day unit here in June together with the opening of a E2.75M endoscopy suite and lift extension in 2010 are part of our commitment to investment in this hospital as an integral part of the UL Hospital Group.” Joe Hoare, Estates Manager, HSE welcomed the contractors on board and is looking forward to work commencing on site next week: “We are delighted to be able to officially announce the awarding of the contract and commencement of work here at Nenagh Hospital. The new facility will provide state of the art, modern accommodation affording inpatients and their families the best possible degree of privacy and dignity during their care.” Architects for the 24-bed medical development at Nenagh Hospital are O’Connell Mahon who are renowned for their healthcare projects.
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CI COMMENT
New NHBC seminars launched to highlight external wall issues NHBC, the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK, is launching a series of seminars to increase industry awareness of problems relating to external walls. The events, which are free and available to all NHBC registered builders, have been arranged following analysis of the large number of claims received over winter 2013/14, due to the heavy storms over this period, which led to a 43% increase in claims compared with normal levels for the same period in previous years. Around two-thirds of the claims reported were in relation to external wall and roof issues; external walls being the predominant issue with an increase of more than 150% over ‘normal’ levels. Chris Derzypilskyj, NHBC’s Technical Projects Manager, explained: “Root cause analysis of claims from this period revealed that workmanship issues were the primary cause. Therefore the aim of these seminars is to provide detailed information on best practice, focusing on key areas such as structure, render, cavity trays and DPCs, to provide a national and regional overview of the claims experience as well as feedback on current site experience.”
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In greater detail, the main areas of focus are set to include; • Render Consistently over the last four years the main failures have been de-bonding from the substrate, shrinkage and thickness/number of coats (background preparation, application and cracking) • Cavity Trays and DPC’s Incorrect installation of horizontal and stepped trays - including linking to flashings • Insulation Poor installation of product e.g. at corners, cavity trays/lintels, wrong product for exposure, retention within the cavity and reduced cavity widths. Membranes and product positioning within timber frame construction and issues with interstitial condensation will also be included. • Structure This will cover bridged cavities, installation of wall ties, movement joints and settlement.
The seminars will take place throughout September and into October, at venues across the country. Full details below; • Tuesday 8th September – Cambridge Belfry, Camborne • Thursday 10th September – Mercure Abbey Hill, Milton Keynes • Tuesday 15th September – National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham • Wednesday 16th September – Leigh Court, Bristol • Tuesday 22nd September – Sandown Racecourse • Thursday 24th September – Thistle Haydock Park, Haydock • Tuesday 29th September – York Racecourse, York • Wednesday 30th September – Westerwood Hotel, Cumbernauld • Thursday 1st October – Hilton Templepatrick, Belfast For any further information about NHBC’s External Walls seminars please visit; www.nhbc.co.uk/awardsandevents/ externalwallsseminars/
COMMENT CI
Agile lessons from Yoga: Flowing gracefully through your projects By Michelle LaBrosse, CCPM, PMP®, PMI-ACP, Chief Cheetah and Founder of Cheetah Learning Here at Cheetah Learning, the atmosphere has been full of energy and excitement as wrap up development efforts on our new program called The Happy Aging Project. Combining a ten-hour online class followed by a two-day yoga retreat, this program is unlike anything we’ve offered before. Our next step is to channel the team’s energy into implementing our Cheetah Sales and Marketing Accelerator System. And since it includes a yoga component, what better way to organize our efforts for it than with an Agile project management approach? Think about it: yoga is really all about agility. It should be no surprise, then, that Agile principles and practices share much in common with those of yoga. Both require the ability to adapt to change, focus intently on one task at a time, and settle into a comfortable, sustainable pace to prevent burnout. And in yoga, as in Agile, users gain incremental benefits throughout the duration of their practice. Let’s talk about a few building blocks of Agile that are essential to putting our Happy Aging Project marketing plan into action: stories, estimating, and points. Stories, as we see them, are project deliverables that have varying levels of complexity. These may be “user stories” that describe some functional element of your project from the user’s point of view; using the case of the Happy Aging Project, a user story might sound like, “I want to be able to move from the first marketing web page to checkout in just two clicks.” Another Agile story may be from the point of view of project team members describing behind-the-scenes functionality. For example, one of the stories we’re working on is, “I need an automated system to send follow-up emails to prospective customers who fill out a form on our marketing page.” After you break up your big project into stories, it’s time to start estimating the complexity of each story and how long it’s going to take to complete. In Agile, you do this by assigning “points” to each story. Simple stories that take the least amount of time and effort to
complete will have a low point value, while complex, multi-step stories will have a higher point value. How many points you assign to each story is relative to the other stories that make up the project. Part of the value of estimates is the estimating process itself; by having all team members participate in the estimating process on equal terms, they’ll feel more invested in the project and energized to bust out the tasks in those low-point-value stories. Estimates are also an important realitycheck. If a story has a point value far above the others, it’s worth asking if it’s really worth pursuing. You may find that other, easier-to-complete stories can get you to the same final outcome you’re working toward. In yoga, for example, you could do a headstand to flow into downward dog position - but you really don’t need to. If you’re new to Agile, your first attempt at estimating story complexity may completely miss the mark - and that’s okay. As your team becomes more experienced at Agile techniques, they’ll not only improve their ability to make accurate estimates, but they’ll likely assign lower scores to each story. This isn’t because the stories magically simplify themselves, but because an Agile team learns how to reach the desired outcomes in the most efficient way possible. To learn more about adapting Agile principles and practices to your organization, check out our 2-PDU Taste of Agile online course. Or, if you’re already a devoted Agile follower, consider becoming a PMI Agile Certified Practitioner and taking our comprehensive Cheetah Exam Prep® for the PMI-ACP® Exam program.
About the Author:
Michelle LaBrosse, PMP, is an entrepreneurial powerhouse with a penchant for making success easy, fun, and fast. She is the founder of Cheetah Learning, the author of the Cheetah Success Series, and a prolific blogger whose mission is to bring Project Management to the masses.
Cheetah Learning is a virtual company with 100 employees, contractors, and licensees worldwide. To date, more than 50,000 people have become “Cheetahs” using Cheetah Learning’s innovative Project Management and accelerated learning techniques. Michelle also developed the Cheetah Certified Project Manager (CCPM) program based on Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personality profiling to help students master how to use their unique strengths for learning, doing projects, and negotiating. CCPM graduates are able to choose the right projects and complete those projects “cheetah fast” based on their personality. They also learn how to leverage others’ strengths which significantly improves overall project team performance. When an employer has a cadre of CCPMs on staff, they achieve whatever they set out to achieve in record time. This is why over 90% of Cheetah’s clients experience an increase in both profitability and revenue within the first year of retaining Cheetah Learning for their Project Management training needs. Honoured by the Project Management Institute (PMI®), Cheetah Learning was named Professional Development Provider of the Year at the 2008 PMI® Global Congress. A dynamic keynote speaker and industry thought leader, Michelle is recognized by PMI as one of the 25 Most Influential Women in Project Management in the world.
Michelle LaBrosse
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CI COMMENT
Are you at risk of being frame(work)ed? Framework agreements and supply agreements are common in the construction industry. Many of you will have signed this sort of enabling agreement and accepted call off orders or contracts under them. But what impact do the terms of such agreements have on the risk profile of the work that you are doing? It is usual that purchase orders or works contracts (let us call them ‘subordinate agreements’) called off under an enabling agreement are stated to be ‘subject to’ the terms of that agreement. The recent Court of Appeal decision in Northrup Grumman Mission Systems Europe Limited (NGM) v BAE Systems (Al Diriyah) Limited (BAE) [2015] EWCA Civ 844 reminds us that, thanks to this type of ‘subject to’ term (incorporation by reference), the terms of an enabling agreement can sometimes deliver an unpleasant commercial punch. The case related to the supply of software licenses but the issue before the Court was one of general interest; it arose when the customer (BAE) invoked a term in the enabling agreement to terminate the subordinate agreement “for convenience” (meaning at will). The contractor, (NGM) disputed its right to do this and advanced a number of arguments to persuade the Court that the terms of the enabling agreement had not been incorporated by reference into the subordinate agreement. They failed. As usual, the detail of the judgment is specific to the particular wording of the agreements in question but the following are a couple of general points worth noting. The subordinate agreement included a term that stated that its terms were to be “governed” by the terms of the enabling agreement and the Court accepted that this term was sufficient for incorporation by reference. The wording required to achieve such incorporation may be “precise or general, narrow or wide”; so not a particularly high hurdle to clear there. If the terms incorporated by reference are too extensive for the subordinate agreement to make sense with all of them in it, surplus terms will be rejected or ignored. For example if an incorporated term is inconsistent with an existing term covering the same subject matter the specific (in the subordinate agreement) would trump the general (from the enabling agreement).
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However, if a term is not surplus or inconsistent it will be incorporated and the Court was willing to modify the language in the enabling agreement to make the relevant term work in the subordinate agreement. The subordinate agreement in the NGM case did not include a termination clause; the enabling contract did. The clause was not surplus to requirements so it was incorporated. The subordinate agreement fulfilled all the conditions set out in the enabling agreement for it to be governed by that agreement. As a result, BAE was entitled to terminate for convenience. Once again, the Court has shown that it will do what is necessary to give effect Sarah E. Philips
to the contract that the parties have actually made, rather than the one they may believe they have made. In this case, that involved combining a two part agreement into a workable whole. The terms of your purchase orders and call offs are only half the contractual story. Make sure you read them in conjunction with the terms of the enabling agreement. Getting the full picture early should hopefully avoid any nasty surprises later. Sarah E. Phillips, Solicitor, Thomas Eggar LLP
COMMENT CI
Adjudication and limitation: supreme court ruling By Peter Sheridan, Partner, Sheridan Gold LLP Suppose that a claimant refers a dispute to adjudication before the expiry of the limitation period, but only just, claiming that the responding party is in breach of contract and that the claimant succeeds. By the time the adjudicator makes his decision, the limitation period has expired. The responding party wishes to take the matter to court or arbitration for a final determination. Does the responding party’s time run from the date of the breach, in which case its claim is statute barred? Or is there a new cause of action so that time runs from the date of payment of the sum ordered by the adjudicator to be paid? This issue thus turns on the responding party’s cause of action when it brings the action in court or arbitration for a final determination. The Supreme Court’s decision in Aspect Contracts v Higgins (2015) is that time runs from the date of payment of the sum ordered by the adjudicator to be paid. The responding party in the situation described above should therefore not normally be in difficulty. There are two strands in the Supreme Court’s approach: implied term and restitution. The implied term is that a party who has paid a sum pursuant to an adjudicator’s decision has a directly enforceable right to recover any overpayment to which the adjudicator’s decision can be shown to have led, once there has been a final determination of the dispute. The cause of action is an alleged overpayment and is for repayment and that the time for making this claim runs from the date of the payment. The overpayment is also recoverable by way of a restitutionary remedy. Once the adjudicator’s decision is shown to have been wrong and the overpayment is established in court or arbitration, the money is in the wrong hands and should be returned to the rightful owner. The overpayment may therefore be claimed in restitution (unjust enrichment) as well as by way of an implied term. Interest from the date of payment may also be claimed on the overpayment, as a matter of established case law in restitution and (less convincingly, but undoubtedly given that this is a Supreme Court decision) by way of a further implied term that interest is payable on the overpayment at a rate to be fixed by
the court if not agreed by the parties. As there is a restitutionary remedy in law, it seems unnecessary to analyse the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 and the Scheme as containing an implied term with the same effect. However, that is now the law and these cases can now be expected to be pleaded on both bases. The limitation period in each case is normally six years from the date of payment pursuant to the adjudicator’s decision. The factual position in Aspect Contracts was as follows. Aspect was to carry out an asbestos survey and report on blocks of maisonettes in Hounslow, for a building contractor, Higgins, which was considering redeveloping. The survey was conducted in March 2004 and the report was dated 27 April 2004. During the redevelopment in early 2005, Higgins allegedly found and had to have removed asbestos-containing materials not identified in the report. A dispute arose, which Higgins referred to adjudication. By a decision dated 28 July 2009, the adjudicator decided that Aspect was liable for losses amounting to £490,627 out of £822,482 claimed. Aspect paid Higgins an amount of £658,017 which took account of interest from the date of the decision. Higgins did not start any proceedings to recover the balance of its claim, £331,855 plus interest, or otherwise and the limitation periods in contract and tort expired; Higgins was understandably content to let matters rest. After the expiry of the limitation periods, Aspect started the proceedings which ended up in the Supreme Court, seeking to recover the sum it had paid. Higgins sought to counterclaim for the £331,855 balance. In the Supreme Court, Higgins was held to be barred by limitation from pursuing the £331,855 balance of its original claim. Although it was understandable that Higgins should wish to let matters lie after its success in the adjudication, it could not ensure that matters would so lie without either pursuing legal or arbitral proceedings to a conclusion or agreeing with Aspect that the adjudicator’s decision was final. Higgins had an alternative case that if, as the Supreme Court found, Aspect had six years from making payment under the adjudication in which to start proceedings for repayment, the corollary ought to
be that Higgins also had a fresh six-year period in which to bring proceedings for the balance the adjudicator had refused to award. The Supreme Court found there was no basis for finding any fresh right to claim for the balance. For more information, contact Peter Sheridan Partner at Sheridan Gold LLP T: 01737 735088 E: psheridan@sheridangold.co.uk www.sheridangold.co.uk
Peter Sheridan
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Seven ways to optimise your leads and win business Every lead should be valued and nurtured. That’s absolutely the way to behave if you want to grow your business. But the opportunity can easily be blown before a quotation is even produced, because every contact with the customer has the potential to be a step towards winning the job. CEO Benjamin Dyer of Powered Now shares ideas on how to get the most from your leads. Idea 1: Get personal – Email isn’t always good for business. The faceto-face meeting has the benefit that you can start building a relationship with the customer and your attitude will go a long way to setting the scene on how your quote will be received. There’s also the chance to find opportunities for other work that may not have been obvious from the first communication. If your company is larger and you can’t attend, it’s important that your management team doesn’t push faceto-face contact too far down the chain. James Chandler of Chandler Building puts it this way: “It’s important that you see the client in the flesh. That’s why I visit every job at the start myself.” This helps your company to see every job from the client’s perspective, and to better understand their motivations. Idea 2: Keep your promises – In every interaction with your prospect you should prove trustworthy because successful selling is based on establishing trust. Your very first phone call starts this process and it is critical that at every step you display a professional attitude and manner. That’s why getting back to customers quickly is important and turning up on time for every appointments is critical. If you fail on these scores, the customer will automatically think that if you’re like this before you get the job, what will you be like after you have won it. Powered Now recently surveyed more than 1,000 homeowners and 83% reported that their biggest frustration with trade companies was them
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not turning up when they said. Idea 3: Make it easy to do business with you – If you are smaller, a pleasant answer phone message and always getting back quickly makes it easier to work with you. In fact, your speed of response, especially in turning round quotes, is a critical factor. Make sure that everything the customer says is noted down, nothing is more frustrating than having to repeat things. Idea 4: Be credible - If you are selling to residential customers, many of them won’t have a clue about building regulations and any other applicable statutes or laws, so it’s up to you to explain, without being patronising. You also need to make a point of letting the customer know about your membership of any trade associations, qualifications, experience and any warranties you will provide. Letting them know you have done equivalent work elsewhere, along with offering references from satisfied customers, all go towards establishing your credibility. Idea 5: British customers like the soft sell – You, of course, you need to be selling at all times when you are in contact with the prospect, but they mustn’t notice it. That’s the British culture. The minute they tell you that “you’re a good sales person” you have failed. One soft way of selling is to provide illustrations of previous jobs showing how neat your work is. Running through exactly what the customer wants, playing back their requests, helps you to be sure you understand which also sells you. Every little helps. Idea 6: Set the correct price expectations – Nobody likes a surprise so it’s important to try to get the prospect to be thinking about a price range that the job is likely to be quoted for. Idea 7: Close gently – There’s nothing magic about closing business, with the right trust established, the right expectations on price and a professional quotation, the client will already be there.
However, make sure that you ask the prospect for their business, but do this naturally. “Is there a date when it would work for us to start?” or “Would you like me to put the job into our calendar?” is the type of approach to take. Delivering a great job is critical, but you don’t even get the chance if you can’t sell. The biggest influence on sales is establishing trust and this comes from how you and your team come across in every single interaction with your customer. By far the easiest sales come from recommendations, where you start the whole sales process with initial trust already established. So the good news is that doing a great job remains critical to growth, as well as being an undoubted source of pride in your work. Benjamin Dyer
COMMENT CI
The benefits of radiator cabinets within Care Homes Bespoke furniture specialist Kingston Cabinets combines superb craftsmanship, cutting edge design and excellent customer service to create the perfect finishing touch to support the building trade. Servicing both the trade and public Daniel Kingston, director of Kingston Cabinets, discusses the benefits of radiator cabinets within the care home industry. There is a variety of different care homes within the UK and each offer a variety of services to older people, younger adults with disabilities, and homes for children. Some provide nursing care whilst others of standard personal care. As with all care homes safety is paramount for residents particularly within their private living area, and when staff are not in the vicinity 24/7 it is important that the very best health and safety precautions are taken. Having worked with care homes around the country, we understand the regulations and the criteria each centre needs to meet so that every individual has a comfortable and safe environment to live. One particular room accessory that can help meet the needs of each home is radiator cabinets. When people think of radiator cabinets they tend to think of cheap, mass produced
covers which sometimes aren’t built to exactly fit the required space. Buying them ready-made from large outlets may offer lower prices but these usually are unable to stand the test of time. Bespoke, made-to-measure radiator cabinets can last a life time when they are made from high-quality materials. Not only do they offer extra shelving space and a focal point to often plain and uninteresting rooms, they also provide a safety cover that ensures people cannot harm themselves if they come in to contact with the hot radiator. In elderly care homes especially, frail occupants could potentially trip and fall against a scorching radiator or depending on where it is located they could lean on it for a period of time without realising and cause extensive injury to themselves. By covering the radiator unit, it decreases any risk of harm which for relatives, provides extra peace of mind. A common misconception with radiator cabinet is that they block out heat, however, it has been proven that they actually improve heat efficiency within rooms which is an important factor considering the high energy costs care homes often face. The windows pictured in the heat map
below each have a radiator below them; however, the right-hand window has a radiator cabinet where as the left-hand one doesn’t. The muted colour on the right demonstrates how it is reducing heat loss by 45%. With the left-hand window, you can clearly see the amount of heat that is escaping by the orange and red colours. This is certainly worth considering when designing or refurbishing care homes. As the safety of residents is paramount within these facilities, the inclusion of radiator cabinets in bedrooms and other living areas is worth taking on board particularly due to the benefits that they can have on rising utility bills.
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CI COMMENT
Building an effective security plan As the construction industry begins to flourish post-recession, demand for construction site security looks set to rise. Amanda Caton of the British Security Industry Association explores the changing security requirements of construction sites and highlights best practice in security procurement. The construction sector has experienced a positive start to 2015, with figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggesting that the sector has contributed to a better than expected outlook for economic growth in the first quarter of the year. Making up 6.4% of the UK’s economy, the construction sector suffered the effects of recession particularly keenly, but is now beginning to feel more upbeat, with reports suggesting that customer uncertainty has reduced following the General Election1. So, how might these changes affect demand for construction site security? As the number of construction projects rise, it is natural to expect demand for effective site security measures to increase in tandem. With the typical building site playing host to a number of different contractors at any one time, as well as a wide range of valuable equipment, security considerations are always paramount, especially given the often open and
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accessible nature of construction sites. Left vulnerable overnight, construction sites face the biggest threat from theft, vandalism and terrorism. A security breach or poorly implemented security measure can have a number of negative effects on a construction site or depot. These can include financial losses and unplanned downtime, along with health and safety issued cause by unauthorised tampering of equipment or procedures. Therefore, site security is essential to the successful and timely completion of a project, or the continued success of a business. As such, security should be addressed at the earliest opportunity, ensuring maximum protection throughout the entire construction process.
An holistic approach
A layered approach to security works best to protect such sites. Starting at the perimeter and working inward, various security measures – both electronic and physical – can integrate successfully to provide an holistic, effective solution to securing even the most complex of construction sites. According to construction industry intelligence analysts, Glenigan2, London is leading the way in the market’s recovery, with rising demand for office
accommodation set to prompt increased investment in the development of prime office space, while the sharp rise in planning approvals for a number of highprofile residential schemes also looks set to provide the market with a boost. Of course, one of the most high-profile building projects in the capital is Europe’s largest construction project, Crossrail, which employs 10,000 workers across 40 sites as the project continues to work towards its goal of constructing 42 additional kilometres to London’s railway network, providing a more direct route across the city. Started in 2008 and scheduled for final completion in 2018, much of the work on the project is due to take place in the 2015-16 period. Interviewed recently by IFSECGlobal. com3, Crossrail’s Security Manager, David Buck, outlined the successful application of the layered security approach that has been deployed at Crossrail sites across the city. Showcasing the busy Farringdon site, near the heart of the city, David explained the blend of physical perimeter security with electronic security measures and manned guarding: “You will see hoarding, you will see gates, you’ll see entry points, and all of these are the physical ‘locks and bolts’ of how a site is secured. On top of that, we will then
introduce an electronic system of Access Control, which will allow you access through turnstiles, and then internally, we will zone the site and that will then allow people who need to go through into work areas to get through, and people who don’t need to go into those work areas will be restricted in their access.” In fact, the so-called ‘onion ring’ approach – whereby the most at-risk area lies at the core of a layered defence system – is commonly deployed on construction sites, integrating physical security measures with electronic systems to provide an early warning and speedy response to potential breaches. However, in contrast to the huge Crossrail project, smaller construction sites do not always have the resources and manpower to ensure that the site is being monitored 24 hours a day. Remotely monitored alarm systems can help with this issue. If an alarm is set off at a site, personnel at a Remote Video Response Centre (RVRC) can be notified of the breach and will be able to respond accordingly, allowing for around the clock protection and giving site managers peace of mind when they are not in the area.
Making informed choices
As the trade body representing the UK’s private security industry, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA)
has recently conducted research into the attitudes of those procurement professionals responsible for buying security products and services in a number of industry sectors, including construction. Early results of this research suggest that spending on construction site security actually increased during the economic downturn, with procurement personnel focusing heavily on the quality of solutions – rather than price alone – to determine their purchasing decision. To help construction site managers make informed choices when selecting security measures, the BSIA also published a comprehensive guide to the application of various security measures in the construction sector. Exploring a range of issues from risk assessment and mitigation to the different approaches required between greenfield (new build) and brownfield (redevelopment) sites, the BSIA’s guide provides in-depth, impartial advice to construction site managers seeking to maximise the effectiveness of security measures on their sites. Taking expert advice is an ideal place to start for any construction company wishing to improve the effectiveness of its current security measures. Members of the Association’s Specialist Services section are best placed to dispense advice on risk assessments and security
solutions, and a list of such suppliers can be found on the BSIA’s website. To find out more about the security measures mentioned in this article, or to locate a reputable supplier near you, visit the Association’s website at www.bsia.co.uk Alternatively, the BSIA’s guide to construction site security can be downloaded directly from the following link: http://www.bsia. co.uk/publications/publicationssearch-results/123-constructionsite-security-a-guide.aspx 1 UK growth outlook brighter after new construction data, The Guardian, 12th June 2015, http://www.theguardian.com/business/2015/ jun/12/uk-economic-growth-revised-up-asons-paints-brighter-picture-of-construction 2 Construction market analysis, Featured Region: London, Glenigan, June 2015 https:// www.glenigan.com/construction-marketanalysis/news/featured-region-london-2015 3 Protecting London: Crossrail Security Interactive Documentary, available on IFSEC Global’s YouTube channel: https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=Dnry2iCbmVA
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CI COMMENT
Emotionally intelligent roadwork signage trialled to improve Driving Safety Highways England are trialling emotional intelligent signage around roadworks and construction sites, complete with personal and informal messages, in a bid to reduce dangerous driving and accidents on troublesome roads. Messages such as ‘Someone loves you, drive carefully’ and ‘Our dad works here’ have been added to signs
surround roadworks on the M1, M3, A21 and A40 to capture the attention of passing drivers and encourage them to drive in a more considered manner. A spokesperson for Highways England explained that the trial is intended “to improve the customer experience through roadworks”, before confirming that the project will continue for a number of years across a greater number of A roads and motorways, monitoring the response of motorists. The initial trials have been met with a bit of a mixed response from motorists, automotive experts and psychologists. Dr Lisa Dorn, director of the Driving Research Group at Cranfield University, enthused: “What this does is bring the information to life. It relates it to [drivers] personally.” “I think it will make drivers process the
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information more deeply. Research has shown that people tend to ignore road signs because we are confronted with them all the time, and are generally pretty bad at noticing them. This will capture people’s attention, and it’s therefore more likely to have an influence.” However, traffic and movement specialist, Ben Hamilton-Baillie, is not so enthusiastic about the trial: “It’s a common mistake – assuming that signs can be friendly when they’re clearly standardised.” A handwritten blackboard at a restaurant, for instance, is different “because the receiver understands there is an individual behind it, but when it’s the state or an agency, it has the opposite effect”. Ben continued by declaring the signs to be patronising for passing motorists. A spokesperson for road safety equipment suppliers, Manchester Safety Services, added: “It will be interesting to see if personalised road safety signs become more prevalent following this trial. It remains important though
that the messages remain clear and on-point, offering instant information without distracting motorists.”
The move seems to part of the ‘Wackaging’ trend, involving products with chatty and informal messages on their packaging. Giving products a voice is now a common technique in marketing and packaging – helping to build relationships between stationary objects and consumers. Whilst this trend may be effective in the smoothie and food markets – it remains to be seen whether it can translate to safety and construction industries. The importance of ensuring that messages are clear and simple-to-follow must be the primary concern of construction crews and road site management – rather than creating an emotional and psychological bond with drivers. However, by June 2014 there were 24,580 reported killed or seriously injured causalities on UK roads. If signs which create an emotional connection with motorists can help contribute towards a reduced figure over the coming years – we could all be seeing chattier road signs.
COMMENT CI
Developing your BIM Implementation Plan With demand for BIM compliant projects growing at an increasing rate, it is important to understand where to start and how to go about getting involved in an effective, structured way. In our experience, some companies are going into BIM blind and they simply agree that they can deliver level 2 BIM and sometimes even level 3 on bids when they have no idea what is involved. This is costing real money and business due to their inability to deliver. Commitment to BIM needs to be fully understood to ensure you are not promising too much and that your entire business is operating collaboratively with a BIM ethos without unnecessary risk. Having successfully worked with numerous companies to implement the move to BIM, we believe there are six key steps to follow in developing your implementation plan.
Step 1. Where do we start?
Before we get started we need to understand all of the key elements that will make up the plan. We need to recognise why we are going through the process, how we achieve our objectives and who will be involved. Here we think about the real business benefits of BIM such as: • Support to complete projects within your specified timeframe • Reducing waste and therefore saving costs • Increased profits.
Step 2. Get to level 2 BIM by 2016
We need to get ahead of the game by planning sooner. The UK Government
has set a deadline that all public projects should be BIM compliant by 2016, and our experience tells us that most companies that implement BIM do so across their whole portfolio. We can support you with this by:
Step 3. Review your processes
The next step is to review your current processes to ensure that they are appropriate for BIM. We will help you undertake this by: • Reviewing your current processes and identifying what will need to change • Supporting you in adjusting your processes to ensure BIM compliance • Understanding public indemnity, BIM data - who owns it and who’s responsible.
Step 4. Defining what a successful BIM project is
Before we embark on a BIM project, we need to define what a successful BIM project is and we’ll work with you to do this. First we should consider how to measure success and agree objectives. We will ensure these are reviewed going forward and work with you to adjust your BIM strategy as we move through this learning process.
Step 5. Get started!
Don’t jump straight in! It’s important to start with the right projects and we’ll work with you to identify appropriate projects by considering: • Size and complexity of the project • Setting clear objectives and measures of success
• Reviewing the project and using what you’ve learnt to refine your BIM strategy.
Step 6. Professional training
Training: BIM for the business, the department, the user and the client BIM brings diversity to professionals of all disciplines, and sometimes non CAD users who need to check, communicate and collaborate within a project. We can develop your training programme to embrace all levels within the organisation, ensuring everyone on the project is engaged within the BIM workflow effectively. Our main courses include: • Strategic Planning workshops (see summary on next page) • Autodesk Revit Architecture • Autodesk Revit MEP. • We also provide training courses on: • Autodesk Navisworks - for CAD & non-CAD users • Cloud based applications for review & collaboration • Data management for complete control of document workflow. This month Quadra are holding a manufacturing event which whilst talking about the ‘the future of making things’ also looks at the impact that BIM process has had on both construction professional and manufacturers. For more information go to www.quadrasol.co.uk/fomt
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CI COMMENT
Offsite Construction can address skills shortages and housing stocks say show organisers Offsite manufacturing techniques (OSM) are the answer to the UK’s increasing problems with low stocks of housing and increasing shortage of skilled labour within the construction industry. That’s the view of the organisers of inaugural Offsite Construction Show, to be held at London’s ExCel exhibition centre in Docklands on the 15th and 16th of October, 2015. “The industry has to face up to the fact that despite the undoubted improvements in Health and Safety in the last ten years, construction remains the most hazardous occupation”, says Event Director, Steven Callaghan.”Young people spend their time indoors on a computer and smartphones, so have little or no enthusiasm to work exposed to the elements, in what many perceive to be uncomfortable, dangerous and relatively low paid work”, says Callaghan. With the industry employing fewer young people than the UK economy as a whole - less than ten per cent are aged between 19 and 24 with one - two per cent aged 16 to 18 and the extraordinary statistic that one in three of the largest construction companies is having to turn down bidding opportunities due to a shortage of skilled labour, something must change. “An increase in the number of apprenticeships would be helpful”, continues Callaghan, “but to take advantage, the industry must increase it’s appeal to school leavers, so they invest three years on low pay whilst learning their trade. All of the reports I read propose myriad reasons for the problem but seem to shrink away from the key issue - the construction industry has lost it’s appeal to the demographic upon whom it relies as a source of labour”. This is where OSM can help, argues Callaghan, as building a house in comfortable, safe and controlled conditions where many dangerous aspects of traditional construction such as heavy lifting, slip and trip hazards are eliminates and sophisticated tooling, machinery and jigs can be used, take the process and the perception of it, towards skilled engineering and away from the more common view of it being a primitive process
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that just involves swinging a shovel. “Formula 1 and sports car manufacturers McClaren, based in Woking, Surrey, who employ around 1,000 people on their 500,000sq m site and are currently building a 57,000sq m extension of their main building, are not reporting any problems in recruiting personnel. Their rival F1 team Williams Engineering are also problem free manning their factory in Grove, Oxfordshire, where they employ over 600 people on their F1 operation alone. “Take a look at the conditions that McClaren employees work in (see attached photo) - how many of them would swap this for a building site in February?” asks Callaghan. Critics argue that whilst industrial and commercial buildings can benefit from lower costs and shorter build times offered by OSM, residential sector homes built with OSM are more expensive. “This perception is one reason why The Offsite Construction Show was launched,” Callaghan continues,“visitors will see the progress that has been made in OSM and exactly what can now be achieved on both design and manufacture and the effect on costs as the industry develops.” “The argument that premium construction
costs of OSM are hard to justify in a market focused on location and price not quality and lifetime performance misses the point. As more houses are built using OSM, economies of scale will kick in plus “invisible” costs that come from eliminating snagging, material and tool theft, insurance and post occupation repairs will start to become more apparent and the OSM built houses will last longer because they are better built, so ultimately they will start to command higher resale prices, which will reflect back onto new build budgets. “There is no question that a major change in perception of how construction is done will be required but does anyone seriously expect that construction alone will stand still whilst every other industry changes around it?”, concludes Callaghan. For more information on this press release or on the show, please contact Steven Callaghan on 020 3086 9296 extension 4 or by email on callaghansj@gmail.com
COMMENT CI
Telematics – how do they really affect your construction fleet? How Construction fleets can save costs using telematics and tracking devices If you are looking to cut costs in your construction fleet, telematics, (including vehicle tracking systems) can provide you with a powerful tool to do so. Whilst simultaneously improving your funds, benefits can be reaped from aspects like improved productivity and reduced labour costs. When it comes to running a fleet, the main areas that costs can be wasted are through inefficient equipment use and driver productivity - both of which can stem a plethora of costly issues. This would be a different story if you were aware of the precise location and performance of all vehicles and assets in your fleet as you can target exactly where changes need to be made. Through using telematics you can optimise schedules and routing to reduce overtime and other inefficient behaviours which drive up labour costs. Not only will this allow your drivers to be aware of the most efficient course to take (henceforth saving time) but because they will be aware that you’re tracking their journey they will be less likely to idle or procrastinate. As a result of these jobs being completed faster, there will be more time to fit in additional tasks and duties throughout the day, bringing in more revenue and improving your business’s reputation. Because employee’s will be performing better it will give you time to focus on other aspects of the business, leading to faster response times, better customer service and assisting with generating repeat business in turn. Improved dispatching and routing will also let you take on more
jobs without having to employ additional personnel or invest in more vehicles. Unnecessary breakdowns of vehicles are another aspect where a vast amount of expenditure is drained, which, with the right equipment can easily be prevented. For this, you could invest in a GPS tracking system with engine diagnostic capabilities - this can help avoid mishaps before they happen, simultaneously saving you time and money. This system can provide you with advance warning of engine trouble allowing you to fix minor problems before they escalate as well as reminders for oil changes, tune ups and other preventative measures than ensure your vehicle is kept in the best condition. Telematics systems, whilst providing realtime usages, are also handy to look back at reports which can compare driver and vehicle activity. Through keeping a regular eye on these reports, you can see long and short term driving patterns and equipment utilisation to identify any areas where productivity is reduced and work to improve these. Yet another aspect where fleet tracking can improve your construction business is in
the prevention of fraud. If a crash was to happen where the opposing driver claimed they had suffered whiplash, a telematics system can show how fast the car was travelling and where/when the brake was applied, thus able to prove if whiplash is plausible or even possible in such a situation. This can help to avoid hefty pay-outs and potential court appearances if a dispute cannot be resolved. Telematics is ever becoming a more important tools for construction fleets and can save thousands of pounds on generated business and efficient time-keeping. Whether you decide to spend a lot or a little on a telematics system, it’s certainly worth it.
www.belfastcity.gov.uk/tenders
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CI COMMENT
Put your bank in the spotlight to get a better deal Ben Martin, CEO of bmbal Are you hunting for cost savings but running out of ideas? Every penny counts and you strive to be as profitable as possible. Yet, even with scrutinising cost centres, it’s likely there are sizeable costs the business is incurring unnecessarily. Did you know that you could be incurring £50,000 of extra costs every year simply by failing to look at one vital area of your business? Actually, in working with a number of businesses I’ve found that the figure usually exceeds £50,000. In fact, the larger the business, the larger the sum of money and year on year that adds up, especially when it’s an issue you can easily address to bring that money back into your business.
Where are you paying unnecessary costs?
So, if construction businesses are incurring unnecessary costs then where is the leak and how can you plug it? The simple answer is that many businesses are overpaying on banking costs. It’s
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not that banks are misleading you, far from it. It’s simply that banking products and services are not a ‘one size fits all’ approach and that products and services that were a good fit at the start of your relationship may not be so appropriate now. Are you monitoring, annually, that the banking products and services you receive are the right fit for your business? If not then it’s likely you are paying unnecessary banking costs, every year. Of course, not every business in the construction industry is in this position. But, if you’re not measuring your banking relationships, annually, then how do you know?
Start with asking right questions
Banking costs, like any other costs need to be reviewed, questioned and managed. But, your time is precious and the answers hard to find. If it was easy, you would have already accomplished this. How can you assess if you need to delve into this in more detail? ‘No’ answers to the
following questions will give you an idea of potential gaps that need further detailed analysis and where you should begin to start measuring your banking relationships: ••Do you have an annual benchmarking process in place to check that the products and services you receive from your bank are ‘fit for purpose’? ••You may have ensured that your debt financing margins are competitive, but have you reviewed the spreads on currency hedging? Or your cash deposit rates? ••If you are making a greater number of international payments then have you reviewed the costs of each payment? ••Are you managing your daily/ weekly liquidity needs efficiently? ••If you are multi banked – do you have a framework that ensures you are taking the optimal mix of products and services from across all banks? Is this formally measured and tracked (or a “gut instinct”)?
Banks provide vital services to the construction industry, be it long term capital financing, short term liquidity facilities and risk hedging lines, together with operational services to ensure daily cash flows are managed and international payments are made. But more often than not, they are just that: providers of a service and not partners.
Put your banks in the spotlight So, what can you do once you have spotted potential issues in your banking relationships? The key is to delve much deeper to fully understand where you can strengthen your banking relationships, making yourself more attractive to banks to reduce overall costs and receive enhanced products and services that transform your operational efficiencies, often at little or no extra cost. It’s a good idea to seek professional help to dig deep with this analysis – it will save you time, effort and introduce useful insight. You can also start this work yourself. In this case you need to review where you think you are incurring the highest banking charges (interest paid, currency hedging spreads, deposit income lost, banking fees and charges and other operational inefficiencies) and assess how these could be refined in order to become more attractive to your banks. Ask your current banks “why are the costs set at this level and how can we work together to reduce them?” This is not as crazy as it seems and, in my experience, banks welcome this debate. Modern banking is not a one size fits all approach. Banks don’t want, and are unable, to provide all banking products and services to every UK business. They have a finite appetite and aim to maximise their allocation of capital to where the maximum reward lies, adjusted for the risks they take in generating such income. Banks assess the income they receive from providing banking services to your business against the costs of the capital (equity required by the regulator) to provide these services. Should construction firms worry what returns their banks are making? Yes, absolutely. Businesses should ask their current banks what banking products and services they want to participate in. You need to understand if your bank’s business model is able to support all or just some of
the banking products your business needs. There is little to be gained by assuming a bank wants to take cash deposits if it is already over funded. It might be desperate to undertake your FX though and can do this at a very sharp price and high level of service. Equally, an overdraft maintained with a secondary bank, to fund unexpected cost over runs may not, by itself, create a level of profitability to keep them interested. You want the right products and services and you also want to attract and engage with banks that want to do business with you. With the understanding of what products you are using together with awareness of your banks’ appetites, you can have a meaningful discussion to establish the correct mix of products at the optimal price. It’s also important to identify, and accept, when a bank would prefer not to provide a product or service. You need to discuss with them if this is specific to your company or the wider construction industry and reach an amicable conclusion. It’s now that you may want to engage with new banks for these services, but you do so from a position of knowledge and strength – which will come across in your discussions with the new bank. If you’re not measuring your banking relationships regularly then you could be needlessly incurring higher costs – hitting profitability. Every business needs to have a watchful eye on costs and avoid overpaying. Start measuring your bank, and put them in the spotlight, so you can ensure you get the right products and services from the right mix of banks, incur lower costs and increase benefits due to better aligned banks. After all, you don’t buy cement, steel guiders and fuel from the same provider – so why should this apply to your banking services and providers?
Ben Martin
Ben Martin is the CEO of bmbal, a specialist banking and treasury advisory service to UK business. He has just launched Business Banking Measured - a free, online, banking measurement tool, available at www.bmbal.com, to help business owners and directors identify how to reduce banking costs and improve the effectiveness of the banking services they receive.
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CI TRANSPORT
Fluctuating fuel prices aren’t just a fleet-ing matter By Jenny Powley, Sales Director Corporate Business, RAC Business Fuel prices have been in a state of fluctuation for some time. The start of 2015 saw fuel prices drop as the oil price plummeted and since then prices have slowly started to rise again. More recently, diesel dropped below the price of petrol and continues to remain on average three pence cheaper—a move that is likely to be welcomed by construction firms whether they run a fleet of trucks or operate from a single van. These price
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changes have made budgeting for running costs difficult, as a few pence per litre difference can add up to hundreds of pounds a month across a large fleet. Regardless of the cost of fuel at any given time, businesses can introduce a number of measures which will reduce the cost and improve the efficiency of running their vehicles, no matter the quantity. This can be done through training and helping drivers to become more aware of bad
habits and driving styles, and technology can play a key role in supporting that. We know already that company vehicle drivers are generally more conscious of fuel use than the private vehicle owner. In fact the RAC’s annual Report on Motoring, found that two thirds (66%) of business vehicle drivers said they monitored the fuel consumption of their vehicle, compared to less than half (44%) of private vehicle owners.
COMMENT CI
There are a number of reasons for this, such as the fact that in most cases drivers have to reimburse fuel usage for journeys classified as private. This will encourage them to keep costs down by filling up at the lowest cost retailers such as supermarkets. The driver benefits as they have less to reimburse, as well as the business as they are using the cheapest possible fuel, driving down costs. However by using fuel cards, which are mainly only accepted at supermarkets, fleet managers have much more reliable information about fuel consumption across their group of vehicles. This enables better management of costs and cash flow and also makes it much simpler for the driver as they don’t have to worry about keeping hold of receipts and the administration that goes into differentiating between business and private journeys. Aside from managing fuel costs at the pump, telematics technology is now increasingly used by construction companies of all sizes, providing firms with real-time information about the location, movements, status and behaviour of a vehicle using a GPS system. Telematics provides a whole range of data that can help with vehicle maintenance, driver management, fuel management, health and safety commitments and dynamic vehicle scheduling.
Often, the mere fact of having the monitoring system in the vehicle has an immediate impact on driver behaviour. The result of this is that drivers tend to take more care, to brake less harshly and drive less quickly, all of which makes them safer drivers and means they use less fuel. This can be a very effective way of bringing down fuel costs as the RAC Telematics ‘driver score’ function can be used by firms to highlight to their personnel how they are driving. A good score is achieved by efficient and more careful driving and across a fleet that can see savings of up to 15% on annual fuel bills. There are also impressive savings in the region of 25% in wear and tear, as well as fewer accidents and speeding fines, all of which contributes to reducing the cost of running the fleet. Insurance companies are increasingly recognising the role telematics is playing in reducing the risk factor for business vehicles meaning lower premiums, another vital saving for a small business. Another feature that telematics offers which could potentially benefit both fleet owners and sole contractors financially is the ability to contest speeding tickets. In the past speeding cameras have wrongly fined drivers because they’ve confused the registration plates with another vehicle—telematics technology data can prove where the vehicle is at
all times so in cases of mistaken identity the data can prove driver innocence. Also speed and braking data can prove invaluable when insurance claims are made—which also keeps costs down. The future of effective and sustainable fleet management lies, in part, in the increased use of technology. But at the most basic level instilling good habits to minimise fuel spend will also help to soften the blow of fuel price rises and efficient driving, leading to reduced carbon emissions. This will not only help the environment but ultimately lead to reducing overheads and boosting your business’ bottom line.
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CI TRANSPORT
Shortlist for 2015 Low Carbon Champions Awards reflects Innovation in Green Transport The Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership (LowCVP) has revealed a diverse shortlist of innovative nominees for the 2015 Low Carbon Champions Awards. The shortlisted organisations and projects reflect the UK’s continued progressive thinking in the area of low carbon transport. The Awards, now in their fifth year, will be presented at the networking and Awards Dinner at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Milton Keynes in collaboration with Cenex on the evening of Wednesday 9th September 2015 – the first of two days of the Cenex Low Carbon Vehicle (LCV) 2015 event. Returning by popular demand, the Master
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of Ceremonies will, for the second year running, be the actor and green vehicle enthusiast Robert Llewellyn, best known for his role as ‘Kryten’ in BBC’s Red Dwarf and for presenting Channel 4’s Scrapheap Challenge. The Awards celebrate outstanding and innovative practice in the UK in accelerating the shift to lower carbon vehicles and fuels and reducing road transport emissions. The LowCVP Low Carbon Champions Awards are one of a select few sustainable development awards schemes to have received accreditation by the Royal Society of the
Arts (RSA), enabling category winners to go forward to the European Business Awards for the Environment (EBAE). The Grand Prix sponsor of the 2015 Low Carbon Champions Awards is again Millbrook, host of the LCV event.
Awards categories and shortlist:
Low Carbon Car / Van Manufacturer of the Year (Sponsor: EDF Energy) Shortlisted: Mitsubishi Motors UK; Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd; Volkswagen UK Low Carbon Heavy Duty Vehicle
Manufacturer of the Year Shortlisted: BYD Europe B.V.; Optare - Electric Vehicles; Leyland Trucks; Scania GB Low Carbon Vehicle Operator of the Year (Sponsor: BAE Systems HybriDrive®) Shortlisted: Dundee City Council; First Bus with City of York; Reading Buses Low Carbon Fuel Initiative of the Year Shortlisted: Convert2Green Ltd; GENeco; Rapid Charge Network project 2015 Award for Low Carbon Innovation by an SME (Sponsor: Advanced Propulsion Centre UK) Shortlisted: Avid Technology Limited; Wirth Research; Dearman Engine Co Ltd; Ashwoods Low Carbon Road Transport Initiative of the Year (Sponsor: The Bosch Group) Shortlisted: Aberdeen City Council; ECO Stars; GENeco 2015 Outstanding Low Carbon Publication or Report Shortlisted: Element Energy; ICCT; UK
Power Networks; Urban Foresight Special awards categories: (No shortlist; winners announced on the night) Outstanding Individual in Promoting Low Carbon Transport ‘Grand Prix’: Outstanding Achievement in Low Carbon Transport (Sponsor: Millbrook) Commenting on this year’s Awards shortlist, LowCVP Managing Director Andy Eastlake said: “The record number of entries, as well as their quality and diversity, again show how the UK’s vibrant low carbon vehicle and fuel sector is leading innovation in clean transport. This year’s winners and shortlisted entrants can be truly proud of their achievements in the face of some tough competition. I look forward to seeing them all at the dinner and to the excitement of the final announcements.” The LowCVP Champions Awards 2015 will be presented as the central
feature of a networking awards dinner in collaboration with Cenex on the evening of Wednesday 9th September 2015 the first of two days of the Cenex Low Carbon Vehicle 2015 event. This year the Awards are to be presented at a bigger and better venue at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Milton Keynes at the MK Dons Stadium, nearly doubling the event capacity compared to last year. The LowCVP Champions Awards were established in 2010 and this year’s event is set to be the leading LCV industry social and networking occasion of the year. Cenex LCV2015, which is being held at Millbrook Proving Ground on 9th -10th September, is the UK’s Premier Low Carbon Vehicle Event, attracting UK and international visitors and combining a technology exhibition with broad B2B focus, a Ride & Drive in a test track environment, networking activities and an extensive seminar programme. For more information visit www.cenex-lcv.co.uk/2015
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CI TRANSPORT
How advanced video analytics will power the smart highways of the future Gadi Lenz, Chief Scientist at AGT International Prototypes for connected vehicles continue to gain media headlines as technology advances. But it isn’t just the vehicles that could benefit from smart Internet of Things technologies, it is also the road itself and how it is managed. Sensors such as CCTV and speed cameras are already deployed on our highway infrastructure, and as these become smarter, the volumes of data that can be collected increases and becomes more valuable to governments and councils looking to make their transport systems more efficient. However, we need to start looking at where data can be harnessed from existing resources in order to deliver next-generation traffic management. To illustrate in more detail, ask a child to tell you what he sees on a road. He might say he sees a red car driving fast and an old lady about to cross the road further down at the traffic light. The boy would understand that an old lady with a walking stick would need much longer to cross than, say, a teenager on rollerblades. The same task – to not just take in information, but to analyse it instantly – has always been beyond computer technology, as facilitating automatic insights and associated decisions require intelligent thought. What we need is a system that operates in a way similar to the human brain, with video cameras able to analyse the information it gains in real-time. Traditionally, anomaly detection by video cameras is made possible by inputting a set of rules into the camera’s operating system. The camera is primed to recognise something strange on the road, as it is programmed to look out for anything “abnormal”. This is great – as long as you know what the camera should be
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looking out for. Ultimately, this method depends on the programmer knowing in advance what “anomalies” are likely to be on the road. This requires a great deal of forecasting, and even then the system is not flexible and cannot adapt to the many different, and often new, scenarios that occur on our roads each day. During initial installation of these systems, the programming of the rules and designation of the areas in the camera’s field of view to which these rules apply is a time consuming and labour intensive exercise that is therefore very costly as well. A system that takes in data from thousands of sensors needs to operate on a more instantaneous basis to reflect the changing highway. With that in mind, machine learning approaches are starting to appear in some commercial applications of video. Basically, the machine is trained on what represents normal traffic flow and once the learning phase is over, the machine can autonomously indicate that something abnormal has happened. This is a more efficient method of detection because it is easier to spot something abnormal once you have learnt what is normal – after all, this is the way the human brain works. As the term “machine” here means the computer that ingests the video stream and runs the anomaly detection algorithm, this, in principle, could be run in the camera itself or very near to it. As you deploy smarter sensors to watch over traffic, it makes sense to do the analytics in the devices themselves rather than sending the data back for central analysis in a system which can be inefficient and risks bottlenecking. A system like this will make smart city management as responsive as
it needs to be in the rapid environment of the highway, where a split-second decision could cause or prevent a crash.
So what sort of smart traffic management applications could be built on advanced video analytics?
In the vehicular traffic area, anomalous behaviours such as a stopped vehicle in a road lane, or someone driving on the hard shoulder, can be detected autonomously. Video cameras can also observe a pedestrian crossing and intelligently predict how quickly an individual can get across as the system’s video analytics has learnt to identify if that person is elderly or handicapped. This can be connected to the traffic lights themselves, with crossing time automatically extended to allow for a safe crossing. Eventually, this type of autonomous system will enable real time responses to the changing flows of different types of pedestrians crossing busy streets. Advanced video analytics could also make roads much safer for cyclists. Cameras, quietly observing a junction or roundabout, will use advanced analytics to track and predict potential accidents between the projected paths of bicycles and cars turning across the bike lane. A warning signal is transferred through connected vehicles own systems or to digital roadside displays to alert drivers to a potential problem and help prevent a serious accident. These kinds of alerts could be particularly helpful for drivers of heavy goods vehicles, who often have poor visibility. Signs alerting drivers to
cyclists are relatively common-place but currently very vague; using IoT analytics from video sensors, the signs may be able to alert all road users to the number of cyclists and their actions (are they moving towards the tunnel, for example). The ability to autonomously predict a collision could mean a sharp reduction in these fatal incidents when applied with other measures. This isn’t just a super smart highway, but potentially a super safe smart highway. The opportunities of vehicle to vehicle (V2V) communications will become apparent as more connected cars and trucks run on our roads. One possibility is more instances of related vehicle to
infrastructure (V2I) where vehicles also communicate with each other but also with equipment on the roadway using standardized communication protocols. For example, roadside equipment measuring the height of trucks before height-limited tunnels or bridges can talk directly to an appropriate radio in the truck alerting the driver to take an alternative route in advance. So, in the future all these technologies V2V, V2I and video analytics will interplay to make our roads safer. The implementation of these kinds of analytics from the data generated from connected vehicles and infrastructure could save governments a lot of money, but more importantly, these smart traffic systems
also function without violating people’s privacy as the systems aren’t tracking vehicles based on their number plates but instead monitor activity for anomalous events. This should reassure anyone who finds the idea of AI “taking over” leaving their data vulnerable rather alarming - on the contrary: technology has never been so helpful or safe. While our highways already are “smart” in a lot of ways, we can look forward to a future where analytics ensure our roads are intelligent in a way that is really useful to normal people.
Gadi Lenz
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CI TRANSPORT
Networks for the next generation The UK’s rail industry is undergoing a series of crucial signalling and telecoms upgrades which provide future substantial opportunities for the UK’s construction sector. Mike Hewitt, Head of Next Generation Networks at ADComms, explains Our railways are undergoing an almost unprecedented period of technological growth and change thanks to a series of vital signalling and telecoms upgrades. This investment will deliver a robust and cost effective network infrastructure, and further cement the UK’s standing as a world-class hub for rail innovation and development. The opportunities these projects create for the rail industry and indeed the construction sector as a supporting body are of a scale not seen for decades. A number of key upgrades underpin these improvements.
FTNx – network of the future
Network Rail, which owns and operates the UK’s rail infrastructure, will soon go live with an IP (internet protocol) upgrade known as FTNx (Fixed Telecom Network). This carrier class IP/MPLS (multiprotocol label switching) network will deliver a transport layer for all network services, regardless of type. This must deliver a secure resilient structure that will support the transformation of the UK’s signalling network. FTNx is essential to progressing the operational capability of our railways. Network Rail’s multi-million build commitment also includes a signalling infrastructure upgrade to European Train Control System (ETCS) and the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). The upgrade could yield a number of important safety benefits for the rail and construction workers involved. The ability to link to consumer devices could lead workers to sport wearable technology so they can be alerted to the arrival of an oncoming train, Network Rail has already proposed. Workers will also be able to operate more smartly and safely through the use of internet enabled devices. Data delivery used to analyse conditions, predict events and generate information remotely
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could also save having engineers out trackside in a dangerous environment. The challenge is balancing this implementation of new technologies, while continuing to support our railways’ existing services and safety systems. This will enable the monitoring of millions of sensors and devices, both connected and wireless, across our railways and bring benefits from data acquisition and analytics to improve the reliability of the network through predictive preventative maintenance. FTNx is far more than a mere network upgrade - it is the catalyst for an evolution in network technologies. With this project, Network Rail is rising to the challenge of bringing our Victorian infrastructure into the 21st century. Improved connectivity for passengers is guaranteed, as is greater flexibility as to when and where we travel as capacity increases. The role that technology focused organisations will play in this transformation is key to the successful delivery of modern infrastructure, as integration of advanced technologies is critical. At ADComms, we have demonstrated how successful a collaborative approach can be across a series of vital telecoms and signalling upgrades. For example, we were recently tasked by Network Rail to design and install a new ‘leaky feeder’ solution to support the installation of crucial GSM-R technology as part of a Merseyrail signalling and telecoms upgrade. This replaced Network Rail’s existing wireless communication system within the tunnel structure beneath Liverpool. We are now working on a new project to install GSM-R coverage across Heathrow Airport’s rail tunnel infrastructure. This will see us working to install the latest phase one of the UK’s ETCS compliant systems. The introduction of Crossrail services through to Heathrow Airport will rely on this upgrade to meet rising demand to provide ten trains every hour
on the stretched Great Western Main Line. As an enabler for Crossrail, the project will contribute towards massively increasing consumer choice, making Heathrow a more commutable option for many travellers. This is a very important project which, by enabling Crossrail trains to run, will deliver an improved experience for passengers. Commuters will have more choice as to their preferred route in and out of the city of London, with the option to use Heathrow Connect, Heathrow Express or Crossrail.
The future’s bright for rail
The future holds greater connectivity and more travel flexibility for tomorrow’s rail users as capacity increases on the network and operators start to tackle the issue of increasing WiFi provision. The construction industry will play a vital role in the delivery of these vital upgrades, and in return, will reward workers with a substantial increase in track side safety. These will make our railways a safer and more secure environment for its workforce to navigate – welcome developments the industry deserves.
Mike Hewitt
Established in 1993 , Thermobile UK Limited is a leading provider of heating and cooling products for a wide range of market sectors; incorporating the motor trade, agriculture, horticulture, poultry, plant hire, construction, rail and the events industry. What’s more , with a highly trained team of personnel and extensive resources – the company is part of Thermobile Industries BV , a major European manufacturer of warm air heating products based in the Netherlands, which has been established for over 50 years - it offers not only great products, but genuine, practical and cost effective solutions. With a central warehouse in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, Thermobile is renowned for providing professional advice, distribution and after sales service. Its products are produced with great care and they are extensively tested. A permanent quality control system,
accredited to ISO 9001, is part of the production process. Thermobile has a vast range of products available, from direct oil fired heaters, natural gas/ propane fired and infra-red radiant oil fired heaters, waste oil heaters and dual voltage heaters plus dehumidifiers and mobile cooling units. The company has a highly skilled and talented team and prides itself on the professionalism of its team and its commitment to superior workmanship and longevity. This goes a long way to explaining why Thermobile is still thriving in such challenging economic times.
Thermobile is present at a number of leading shows too; ideal places to get to know the company and its products. In the latter half of 2015, it will be exhibiting at two major events, starting with the Four Oaks Trade Show, Lower Withington, Cheshire on the 8th to 9th September followed by the Showman’s Show at the Newbury Showground, 21st & 22nd October.
If you can’t wait , you can call: Andy Wallis: 07850 988382 E: andy@thermobile.co.uk Steve Jones: 07810 805935 E: steve@thermobile.co.uk John Hall: 07775 635527 E: john@thermobile.co.uk Or visit www.thermobile.co.uk
CI COMMENT
Trade Association’s inaugural conference puts range of invasive weeds under the spotlight National trade body the Property Care Association (PCA) is holding a specialised conference, dedicated to the subject of non-native invasive plants. ‘Understanding Invasive Weeds; Japanese Knotweed, Fact and Fiction’ takes place on 23 September at The Vale Resort, Hensol, Cardiff. It is the first conference held by the PCA’s specialist Invasive Weed Control Group and is being facilitated by Richard Newis, Ashfield Japanese Knotweed (chair), Ian Graham, Complete Weed Control and Professor Max Wade, AECOM. As well as seeking to promote a level headed and evidence based approach to Japanese knotweed, there will also be a focus on other invasive weeds such as Himalayan balsam and giant hogweed, which are coming increasingly under the radar in the UK following new EU regulations, which came into effect in January. These regulations will empower government agencies to issue Control Orders that necessitate the removal of high risk invasive weed species from specified sites, potentially including housing construction projects and neighbouring properties. The conference is of interest to a widerange of professionals, reflecting the impact invasive weeds have across the UK. These include local authorities, statutory agencies, the rail, road and port industries, lawyers, utility companies, estate managers, house builders and developers, landlords, estate agents, housing associations, property agents, academia, surveyors and asset managers. To register an interest in the event please email sue@property-care.org Stephen Hodgson, Chief Executive of the PCA, said: “The conference will provide an opportunity for delegates to update their work and practices and explore the control of invasive weeds at a landscape scale.
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“For several years now we have taken steps to control Japanese knotweed. It is just a plant and we are taking all steps necessary to ‘normalise’ it, so it is viewed generally as any other type of property problem, in that it can be identified and treated, with minimal impact. “Increasingly, our focus will now include adopting this approach to other invasive weeds, in line with the requirements of the new EU regulations. This conference will provide an excellent opportunity
to find out more about the subject.” In 2012, The Property Care Association – which has been in formation for more than 80 years - worked with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) - supported by the Council of Mortgage Lenders and The Building Societies Association together with Japanese knotweed control companies that currently operate within the UK, to set up the Invasive Weed Control Group, to signpost consumers to professional treatment companies.
www.threeshires.com
enquiries@threeshires.com
CI COMMERCIAL
Terex GB expands operations in Northern Ireland Work is due to complete in September on a project that will extend facilities for Terex GB’s operations in Ireland. Main Contractor, Henry Brothers (Magherafelt) Ltd, was contracted to develop the warehouse facilities at Coalisland Road, Dungannon, in a £2.9M development project, with development already completed at the facilities in Omagh. Terex Corporation is a lifting and material handling solutions company covering: Aerial Work Platforms, Construction, Cranes, Material Handling & Port Solutions and Materials Processing. Terex manufactures a broad range of equipment serving customers in various industries, including the construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, shipping, transportation, refining, energy, utility, quarrying and mining industries. Terex also offers financial products and services to assist in the acquisition of equipment through Terex Financial Services™. The Company has had a base in Ireland for some time, and in 2013 the move
was taken to invest some £22M in the manufacturing, research and development space at the production facilities. The investment has seen new warehouse and office facilities, factory hall extensions plus external works and landscaping, as well as the purchase of new equipment at both the company’s factories in Omagh and Dungannon. Terex GB Ltd manufactures a range of mobile materials processing equipment under its Powerscreen® and Terex® Finlay brands at the factories. Kieran Hegarty, President of Terex Materials Processing, said at the investment announcement: “This significant reinvestment in Northern Ireland marks an exciting chapter in Terex Corporation’s 13 year history in County Tyrone and will be a major step in our long term growth plans. “We expect our turnover to increase further over the coming years and we will need to expand our factory space and workforce to cope with projected demand. “The assistance offered by Invest NI has been instrumental in our decision to
expand here and this project will help to strengthen Northern Ireland’s position as a centre of excellence for mobile crushing and screening, from design through to manufacture and to global sales.” The announcement was welcomed by then Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster, who said: “Terex GB is one of Northern Ireland’s top engineering companies and this decision to expand is a boost for Northern Ireland’s vibrant materials-handling sector. “It also acknowledges the value which the Terex Corporation places on the skilled and educated workforce available here.” Some 260 skilled jobs are being created through the investment, with £2.6M of support from Invest Northern Ireland. Further to this investment – it was recently announced that Terex has further strengthened its distributor network in Ireland with the appointment of Embankment Machinery Sales (EMS) Ltd, Saggart, Co Dublin. EMS will play a key part in Terex’s ability to provide world class sales and service in Ireland.
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Tel: 028 38 333 551 Fax: 028 38 350 204 Email: sales@blshutters.co.uk www.blshutters.co.uk 38
CIVIL CI
Balbriggan & Skerries Sewerage Scheme Phase III Phase III on the construction of the new pumping station and associated works at the Dublin Road Roundabout in Balbriggan is currently on going. Phases I and II of the Balbriggan & Skerries sewerage scheme included the construction and extension of a new treatment works and three main pumping stations, which have already been completed. The new pumping station will carry effluent from Balbriggan and Skerries to be treated in the new plant, located at Barnageeragh. It is hoped that the new pumping station will help to alleviate the number of pollution incidents that have occurred previously during flash flooding. The huge volume of water resulted in a failure of a number of pumping stations around the county, which
led to an outbreak of E.coli and swimming bans in the waters of Balbriggan beach. Main Contractor, working on behalf of Irish Water, is Jons Civil Engineering. The Company has over 28 years experience in the successful delivery of infrastructural projects in Ireland and specialise in complex civil engineering projects. Consulting Engineer for the project is JB Barry and Partners Limited. The Company is one of Ireland’s leading consulting engineers and offers a wide variety of services in the civil engineering, environmental engineering, structural engineering, transportation engineering and health and safety sectors. Unfortunately, this crucial work on the pumping station and associated pipework has meant severe disruption for local
businesses as a section of a public car park had to be closed, with intermittent traffic disruption and road closures are also in operation. A consultation meeting was held and attended by contractors, business owners, member of the council and local people to discuss and find solutions to help ease these difficulties. A spokesperson for Irish Water said: “Each set of works will take approximately six weeks. The much needed Dublin Road Pumping Station project will provide the ability to deliver modern sewage infrastructure that will serve the area well into the future and provide capacity for future economic growth.” The 14 month project began in July 2014 and is scheduled to complete later this year.
WASHED SAND, AGGREGATES & CRUSHED STONE
Building Surveys (Structural) Schedules of Dilapidations Building Defect Analysis Insurance Reinstatement Valuations
We are pleased to be associated with the Balbriggan Skerries Sewerage Scheme Phase 3 and wish all involved continued success
ASSESS - ASSURE - PROTECT 59 Merrion Square, Dublin 2. Tel: 01-661 0390 email: info@mcgovernsurveyors.ie
PIT, DILLONSDOWN, BLESSINGTON, CO. WICKLOW
www.mcgovernsurveyors.ie
HEAD OFFICE: 9 THE WOODS, BALLINCLEA ROAD, KILLINEY, CO. DUBLIN.
TEL. (045) 865618 / 865610 FAX. (045) 865610
TEL. (01) 285 4630 / 285 4631 FAX. (01) 235 2820 EMAIL: carnegie@eircom.net
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CI CIVIL
Financial close reached on e145M Donegal wind farm Energia Renewables has reached financial close on the new e145M Meenadreen Extension wind farm in Co Donegal. The contract with Main Contractor, Nordex, will see them supply and install 38 N90/2500 turbines to provide over 255 gigawatt hours each year, enough energy to provide power for 70,000 homes, in addition to the provision of service for 15 years. The Meenadreen wind farm represents Nordex’s largest project in Ireland to date. In 2014, Nordex installed eight N90 turbines at Thornog wind farm in Northern Ireland, also for Energia Renewables. Since its inception in 2002, Nordex has installed more than 200 turbines throughout Ireland. A new e11M substation will also be built which will help to further strengthen the electricity network in Donegal. Energia have been providing electricity and gas to Irish businesses since 1999. Over 25% of all Irish businesses have
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chosen the Company as their energy supplier, including more than third of all Irish small and medium sized enterprises. The Company’s operational wind farm portfolio, which combines power from Energia’s own wind farms and power from third party wind farms contracted to Energia under power purchase agreements, currently supplies 795MWs of green power. This will increase further by 300MWs of green power by a number of wind farm facilities, including Meenadreen, which are currently in development. Peter Baillie, Managing Director, Energia Renewables said: “ We are delighted to reach this significant milestone in the development of our flagship 95MW Meenadreen Extension wind farm project. The development of this new wind farm is a very positive step forward for renewable energy in Ireland and this is something that is very important to us. “Energia currently supplies over 795MWs
of renewable energy to homes and business across Ireland. We are on track to supply over 1,00MWs by the middle of this decade. Energia Group remains one of the most significant contributors to the achievement of Ireland’s renewable targets and one of the most significant contributors to the achievement of Ireland’s renewable targets and one of the largest investors in the renewable sector. “We’ve received a lot of support from the local community and we’re very grateful for this. The development of our new wind farm is a very positive step forward for renewable energy in Ireland and this is something that is very important to us. All our wind farm developments bring significant benefits to the local economies, including job creation, construction suppliers, increased rates for the local authorities and improvements to local infrastructure such as roads.” Work is due to start on the installation of the wind farm in March 2016.
KIRBY - MAKING A CONNECTION WITH CLIENTS Kirby have been connecting with their clients for over 50 years. It’s what kept them growing in the tough times and what keeps their clients returning year after year. 60% of Kirby business comes from returning clients because they value the ‘Kirby Way’. But they’ve also been connecting clients in a very real way through their highly successful electrical transmission and distribution projects. Kirby has already connected over 1.3GW of wind capacity to the grid. They are market leaders when it comes to the design, engineering, construction and commissioning of high and medium-voltage transmission and distribution systems and there are a few good reasons behind this bold claim. Kirby T&D staff are some of the most experienced in the business. Jimmy Kirby, Executive Chairman explains, “We know we have great staff. But it’s the strong interlocking of capabilities, across staff, core competencies and use of IT, that creates real value. T&D work is technically demanding; there’s no room for inaccuracies and our clients choose Kirby to get the best possible team on their projects.”
But great connections don’t just come from having the best people, they also come from approaching the business a little differently. Stephen Kavanagh, Engineering Manager for T&D explains, “Kirby has the in-house capability to manage all aspects of a project from design right through to energisation. We undertake both contestable grid-connection and client-side electrical system works, managing the design interface between both. We can also manage the civils and building works of HV cable, overhead line, GIS substation buildings and AIS switchyards. Not every contractor can offer that level of integration. We’re good at working with clients early, helping them with the design and then seeing the engineering and construction works through to reality. And we don’t hide from problems; we stand with our clients; we modify and adapt until we find the best possible solution.” Kirby tick all the boxes when it comes to industry standards too, holding full accreditation through Lloyds NERS and Achilles UVDB, they have earned their reputation as one of the most trusted T&D providers in the industry.
Kirby has connected over 1.3GW of wind capacity to the grid
CI COMMUNITY
Ards and North Down Council invest in local towns Public realm schemes in Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Comber and Donaghadee, transform the towns. FP McCann operates within the UK building and civil engineering sectors. The Company has secured and completed a portfolio of award wining construction work in Northern Ireland; these include projects in the public sector areas of health, education, eater and transport infrastructure, and private industrial and commercial developments. Managing projects from conception through to completion and handover, FP McCann provides a high quality service with cost effective and sustainable solutions tailored to meet clients’ budgets and expectations. FP McCann has a history of working closely with local councils and numerous government departments on a wide variety of projects, and is a trusted contractor for many. It is this pedigree that has see the Company appointed to numerous Pubic Realm Enhancement projects across a number of boroughs. Improvements have been carried out to promenades, urban landscapes and pedestrian links, including water features, paving, lighting, traffic control, bespoke furniture, improved pedestrian routes, feature steps etc. The Company was awarded the contracts for a number of Public Realm Schemes, which are on going, by Ards & North Down Borough Council. The Council is investing a significant amount across the Borough in improving the towns’ spaces for residents, visitors and businesses alike. The investment in the Borough’s major towns amounts to some £27M, and is transforming their visual appearance, as well as enhancing their appeal as places to live, visit and shop. The five schemes are being funded by the Department for Social Development and Ards and North Down Borough Council. Each scheme will deliver a bespoke new look that compliments the unique identity of the town and includes improvement works such as new paving, lighting, planting, seating and signage.
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Bangor
Value: £8.1M Start Date: May 2014 Completion: August 2016 The scheme for Bangor town centre is designed to enhance the identity and character of the town, whilst providing a unique and sustainable high quality finish. Improvements to the area include high quality, natural stone pavements, architecturally sculptured planting, bespoke seating and enhanced lighting including pavement lighting features to create a vibrant night time environment. The town’s maritime and Christian heritage will be reflected in the scheme with three unique pieces of public art; the first of these new bespoke feature sail columns was erected at the beginning of August. Key works are being carried out at Abbey Street, Main Street, High Street and Bridge Street. By improving parking and creating high quality pedestrian areas, the result will be a distinctive and modern town centre ready to welcome an ever-increasing number of visitors.
Holywood
Value: £2.5M Start Date: May 2014 Completion: May 2015 The Public Realm works in Holywood have focussed on the pedestrian friendly, conservation area of the town, creating a village type character, with niche shopping boutiques and a café culture to encourage more visitors to the town. New street lighting, furniture and additional trees are being added to High Street, Hibernia Street and the Church road, Shore Road, Maypole area. Natural stone has been introduced to provide a distinctive and appropriate setting for the town’s historic buildings The redesign has created a more pedestrian friendly environment and introduced striking new features such
as upgraded footpaths with Italian porphyry paving and new interpretative art panels.
Comber
Value: £2.4M Start Date: July 2015 Completion: Autumn 2015 Work at Comber seeks to complement Comber’s townscape character, rich history and listed features. Former Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland, announced the £2.4M investment in October 2013. Comber Square, at the heart of this scheme, will feature bronze inlays and engraved paving, highlighting the town’s history, from the linen mills to Rollo Gillespie and Comber Potatoes. Lighting columns will match the existing street lights, reflecting a traditional style, while cast iron and timber will be used for street furniture.
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, meets with Bangor Chamber of Commerce President, Thomas Fegan, Jennifer from Menarys and representatives from Contractor FP McCann, to discuss the on going Public Realm works and view the newly finished paving outside the store.
Donaghadee
Value: £2.4M Start Date: August 2014 Completion: August 2015 Work at Donaghadee has focussed on enhancing the town’s coastal location and harbour setting. The waterfront has been developed to create a public amenity tat will act as a flexible events apace and offer enhanced sea views. A significant piece of work includes enhancement of the sea wall. The area now benefits from new seating, a promenade, large grassed areas and seasonal planting. All the new features have been chosen to reflect the setting, whilst being robust enough to cope with a coastal location. The scheme has been intended to reinvigorate the town, generating a positive economic impact.
Newtownards
Value: £5.4M Start Date: July 2014 Completion: Autumn 2016 The funding for this scheme was announced in December 2013. The works, which are due to complete next year, focus on transforming the visual appearance of the town and encouraging shoppers and businesses alike. Part of the project will see Newtownards market move from Conway Square to Kennel Lane car park, with Conway Square being developed as the key focal point within the town. The newly transformed Conway Square has already proved a hit with local business, being described as having a fresh and vibrant feel that is a ‘great boost for business’. It complements listed and historical features, with the
visitors have been very complimentary Blair Mayne Statue and TT Memorial about the space’s new look, remaining in their existing setting. particularly the finer details, such The materials and design style used as names with the composes, that within Conway Square will translate through to the surrounding streets, where capture the area’s heritage. semi-mature trees will be planted, natural stone paving used, traditional street lighting columns and bespoke street furniture all complementing the look. Special features include bespoke seating with back rests and the new boxed Carpinus trees, providing natural shade and a comfortable place to sit and enjoy the newly created space. Leigh Nelson, President of the Chamber of Trade, Newtownards, said at the completion of the square: “It is great to see the square finished. It has a lively, fpmccann.co.uk/civil-engineering modern feel and loads of people FP McCann have years of experience working are using it. This with local councils and the Department of has been a real Regional Development to enhance public realm boost for business, spaces such as promenades, urban landscapes with local traders reporting and pedestrian links. increased sales. Local business 3 Drumard Rd. Magherafelt BT45 8QA 028 7964 2558 owners and
Leading the way in Public Realm
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CI HOUSING
Coachyard Avenue, Enfield
Deirlem delivers first-class residential development House buyers in Enfield, County Meath, have celebrated the completion of a state-of-the-art residential development – Coachyard Avenue. Comprised of nine contemporary homes – one four-bed detached, two four-bed semidetached and six three-bed semi-detached – Coachyard Avenue marks a considerable construction milestone for Enfield, a village that has seen little in the way of significant residential investment in the years following the economic downturn. With its rural appeal, strong transport links and proximity to Dublin, Enfield is the perfect place for families looking to put down roots – a detail that developer and contractor Deirlem Ltd was quick to acknowledge. Following a period of research, an unoccupied brownfield site – previously ear-marked for residential use under the Enfield local area plan – was identified as an ideal location for a development of this scale. Coachyard Avenue is typified by the spacious high specification interiors found throughout. Modern design principles have seen the creation of open-plan living spaces that combine kitchen, dining and family areas to create an inclusive free-flowing environment. Testament to the quality of materials used, kitchens have been finished in ivory and walnut and internal doors in oak. The development – designed by the wellrespected Dublin-based practice, John Fleming Architects – employs traditional design and construction techniques to great effect. Each of the nine properties consist of a blockwork core with an easi-joist system at first floor level and
additional storage trusses within the roof structure. Externally, these characterful homes have been finished in red brick, render and raised brick detailing. West facing rear gardens, cobbled driveways, front lawns and shrubbery separators have also been specified to provide residents with the best possible living environment. At its heart Coachyard Avenue is also deeply sustainable. The development has achieved an A3 energy rating, thanks in part to the inclusion of photovoltaic panels with immersion diversion and natural gas heating. This responsible approach to new build housing is to be commended - poor energy performance in our buildings is no longer tenable. Construction of the Coachyard Avenue development was overseen by the Enfieldbased Deirlem Ltd. Deirlem drew upon two decades worth of residential expertise to meet both the rigorous current building regulations and the high specification finishes expected in today’s housing market. With a residential estate situated close by, access to the site would prove somewhat problematic however. Sensitive to the needs of the Enfield community,
Deirlem opted to lease a parcel of land to the rear of the site to accommodate plant and materials, and mitigate the potential for disruption that construction traffic often brings. As work began in earnest in October 2014, the Contractor also had to contend with a particularly harsh winter climate. Here Deirlem’s experience proved instrumental in delivering the development on time and to budget. In total the completed development amounts to an approximate sales value of e2.4M. Of the nine properties, seven are now occupied, with the remaining two units expected to be filled in the very near future.
With over twenty years’ experience of development and construction works, Deirlem Ltd has successfully delivered high quality construction projects in the residential, commercial, retail and educational sectors. We pride ourselves on our long term relationships with our clients and professional partners in a trustworthy loyal environment.
Unit 5, Teach Bui, Main Street, Enfield, Co. Meath
Phone: 046 954 3450 Fax: 046 954 3454 Email: info@deirlem.ie www.deirlem.ie
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CIVIL CI
Internal of building post M&E installation at filter top level looking along filter inlet channel to all nine filters.
Killyhevlin Water Treatment Works GAC filters scheme Lagan Water in conjunction with Doosan is currently working on a scheme which will provide improved water quality to Enniskillen. The scheme is based at Killyhevlin Water Treatment Works, located just outside Enniskillen on the shores of Lough Erne, and will see a number of GAC filters added to the existing plant together with associated relift pumps and Mechanical & Electrical equipment. The Treatment Works was constructed on the site of a previous WTW facility, above the water levels expected in the managed lough system. This site has potable water storage tanks and substantial underground construction and water storage. Due to the power requirements of the works, it also has a major electrical substation located in the basement of the works. Granular activated carbon filters (GAC) is a proven option to remove certain chemicals, particularly organic chemicals, from water. GAC filters can also be used to remove chemicals that give objectionable odours or tastes to water, such as hydrogen sulphide or chlorine. Granular activated carbon is made from raw organic materials (such as coconut shells or coal) that are high in carbon. Heat, in
the absence of oxygen, is used to increase operations throughout construction to (activate) the surface area of the carbon; ensure that there were also no interruptions this is why these filters are sometimes to water supplies for customers in referred to as ‘charcoal’ filters. The the area. Increased water sampling activated carbon removes certain chemicals frequency was implemented to ensure that are dissolved in water passing water quality throughout the project. through a filter containing GAC by trapping Construction commenced in June 2014 and (adsorbing) the chemical in the GAC. it is due for completion in October 2015. Killyhevlin will see nine filters added to the existing plant, designed to remove pesticides and improve water quality, together with 800mm and 600mm stainless steel pipework. Construction of the tanks is being carried out directly adjacent the existing works on unoccupied land, and care was taken to ensure the works caused the minimum of disruption to the working site. NI Control Systems Ltd. Water Engineering Procurement division liaised closely with water supply colleagues in
BESPOKE DESIGN, MANUFACTURE, INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING OF ELECTRICAL CONTROL SYSTEMS We are delighted to have carried out the electrical installation work for Lagan Water on this project 92 Moy Rd, Armagh, Co. Armagh, BT61 8DR
Steelwork erection around GAC filter concrete tanks prior to cladding being installed
Tel: 028 3752 4508 Email: info@awcontrolsystems.com www.awcontrolsystems.com 45
CI EDUCATION
St Angela’s College, Cork
e9.2M redevelopment of campus St Angela’s College has educated young women in Cork for 125 years at its campus on St Patrick’s Hill. Opening in 1888, the school is housed in an early 19th century building once owned by the Murphy family, which boasts magnificent views of the south and west sides of Cork City. September 2013 saw the staff and students move to a 5.3 acre campus on Wellington Road, Cork, to facilitate the major renovation and refurbishment of St Angela’s College, including the creation of state-of-the-art facilities, together with the retention and preservation of its historic features. The campus at Wellington Road, will house the college for three years while the major works are undertaken at the St Patrick’s Hill site. Dating back to the 1870s, the buildings are being sensitively adapted by Architect O’Donnell and Tuomey and developed to meet the requirements of St Angela’s College and its student population of 540. The redevelopment will provide 24 classrooms, lecture rooms, laboratories, a sports hall and other facilities, with almost half of these located within the old school building. The adjoining Ursuline Convent will be fully integrated into the school, accommodating staff facilities and a student library. Redevelopment of the campus is required due to the overcrowded site that it currently sits in, the poor condition of the buildings and poor layout of the accommodation. There was particular difficulty arising from the lack of adequate facilities for specialist subjects and PE. The redevelopment will reduce the reliance by the School on third party facilities, through the enhancement and consolidation of facilities on site. Within the old buildings, many of the
heritage features, such as stained-glass The new buildings are constructed of panels, a carved timber porch, and sash reinforced fair faced concrete external leaf and bay windows, have been retained, with and have been designed to take advantage some uncovered for the very first time. of their site and orientation to improve Principal Pat Curran said: “They have sustainability. Each building maximises the discovered old brick archways and use of natural light and ventilation, thermal chimneys that were hidden behind mass and alternative/natural resources. plaster and timber, which will now be The materials were chosen to keep part of the new school, along with the energy use in their production versus their old high ceilings and interior detailing. lifespan and maintenance to a minimum. We’re an old Ursuline Convent school Main Contractor, L&M Keating commenced and if we were to knock all these old works on site at the end of February 2014, buildings we would lose all that history.” with works due to complete late 2015. All the protected structures on site are being retained and the development will allow the campus to relate to both old and new buildings, providing a good relationship with outdoor space. New buildings on site – the Science block to the south east and the Arts Block to the north west – are located on the site in a manner that respects and retains the character of the existing collection of Protected Structures while providing for the needs of a 21st century school in a dynamic and appropriate manner. Some selective demolition was required on the site Carpentry Services in order to free up space within the • Metal Stud Partitions school grounds for • Renovations and Extensions the new structures • Grid and M.F. Ceilings and to allow for better movement Fireproofing Services within the campus.
• Fire Door Maintenance • Cavity Barriers • Core Penetration • Sealing Systems
POL Contracts Ltd Cahercloggane, Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare
Mob: 086 4056675 Email: info@polcontracts.com www.polcontracts.com 46
Proud to have been of service to the Water industry for 37 Years! UK Manufacturing & Supply company, providing Quality Process Monitoring & Control Instrumentation with up to 10 year warranty.
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