Northern Builder Magazine Issue Vol27-No3 2016 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

F CO RE PY E

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE:

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

n Roofing and cladding n The Waterfront, Belfast n Awards special n Ventilation

Vol 27 No 3 2016

Take a right turn at The Junction MAIN CONTRACTOR

www.qmacconstruction.com

An insight into Dungannon’s impressive mixed-use community development

One screed to rule them all

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

bringing european innovation

NORTHERN BUILDER

Inside this issue... News & Views

Product & company insights 10-11

Official launch Akusto One

Brett Martin introduces

Further expansion as JP Corry set

to open 16th branch

Deepstyle 170

Lights, camera, action for O’Hare

32-33

Brick Sales signs exclusive deal

& McGovern

with Caprice

GRAHAM-BAM to deliver new

The future of manhole construction

from Tracey Concrete

Acute Services Block

44-45

Murdock’s Ballybriggan celebrates

CEF’s State of the Trade report

10th anniversary

Well fixed for fastenings with

McAleer & Rushe reaches project

Simpson Strong-Tie

Superior sealants from Contech

New Chairman of CIOB in Ireland’s

A new dawn for Passive House

Northern Centre

standards

Darren elected as Concrete

Society’s new chairman

Haldane Fisher

Introducing Irwin M&E

106

Bespoke training from JMD

FMB’s concern over ‘lost

108-109 Excellence in electrical from Lewis

milestone 26-27

Issue 27-3 - 2016

generation’ 100

Latest project news from CIS

122

SAM doubles employee numbers

102

Safety day success at ITS

104-105 New Hörmann quotation at

Services 120-121 Trouble-free screed laying 128

Reduce dust with the Draper

Expert M class vacuum

27 Feature highlights 13-22 Project profile – The Junction, Dungannon 36-39 RSUA Awards 49 Project profile – Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, Belfast 60-75 RICS Northern Ireland Awards 2016 79-97 Roofing, Cladding and Facades 113-119 Heating and ventilation

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

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

With reference to the Misdescriptions Act, please note that the measurements and artist’s impressions within are for illustrative purposes only and may not be accurate. Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 3

NEWS

TAL LTD DELIVERING NORTHERN IRELAND’S FIRST HEALTH AND WELLBEING CAMPUS

(From left), Gerard Guckian, Chairman of the Western Health and Social Care Trust; Heather Monteverde, Head of Macmillan Services in Northern Ireland; and Site Manager Andy Greer of TAL.

JP CORRY EXPANDS ITS BELFAST OFFERING Building supplier, JP Corry, has announced plans to strengthen its presence in Belfast with the opening of a new branch in Andersonstown, West Belfast. The expansion represents significant investment by the company and will take the total number of branches to 16. The new premises, located on the busy Andersonstown Road and is set to open in August, will stock a wide range of DIY and building products. Customers visiting the branch will benefit from its seven-days-a-week access and evening opening hours, as well as a local delivery service. Connor Mallon, Branch Manager, explained, “The new store sits on the busy Andersonstown Road which represents huge potential for us, and with our flagship branch a few miles away we will be able to service the entire West Belfast area.” For more information or to find your nearest JP Corry branch telephone 028 9024 3661 or visit www.jpcorry.com

GOVANHILL BATHS APPOINTS DESIGN TEAM FOR REFURBAISHMENT Belfast-based architects, Hall Black Douglas have been appointed to lead the design team to take forward the next phase of the refurbishment of the Govanhill historic Edwardian bath-house in Glasgow into a well-being centre. Known for its work in re-using historic buildings, the practice has won awards for its work on the Verbal Arts Centre, DerryLondonderry and the Linen Hall Library, Belfast. It is currently working on the restoration of the Tropical Ravine in the Botanic Gardens, Belfast. Stephen Douglas, HBD Design Director, said, “This phase of the refurbishment will see the whole building repaired and the reinstatement of two of the three

4 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Construction work by TAL Ltd on Northern Ireland’s first health and wellbeing campus at Altnagelvin Area Hospital is well underway. The campus, due to open in early 2017, will incorporate a new purpose-built Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre and long term conditions unit in Agnes Jones House, which is being refurbished. The two buildings will be linked by a walkway and garden. Damien Hughes, TAL’s Contracts Director, said, “We have delivered vital care facilities throughout Northern Ireland, providing residential and nursing care accommodation. We work closely with the client team on each project to understand their requirements and deliver safe and comfortable facilities to enhance the care and support offered to patients, carers and families living with challenging and long term conditions.” For more information, telephone 028 9262 2345, e-mail construct@tal.ltd.uk or visit www.tal.ltd.uk

CGI of the new health and wellbeing building.

C-TEC BOWLED OVER Lisburn-based building products specialist, C-Tec (Belfast) has provided sponsorship for its local cricket team to celebrate its recent promotion to the Ulster Bank Premier League. Gavin Cairns, Sales Director at C-Tec is pictured presenting the new coloured playing shirts for cup competitions to Craig Lewis, Captain of Derriaghy Cricket Club. For more information, telephone 028 9262 9999 or visit www.ct1ltd.com

swimming pools, saunas and Turkish baths and fitness suite. Hall Black Douglas will be working with Alastair Coey Architects as conservation specialists, drawing up a Conservation Management Plan and co-ordinating the specification of the restoration works. The work should begin early next year and complete in 2018. For further information, telephone 028 9045 0681, e-mail admin@hallblackdouglas.co.uk or visit www.hallblackdouglas.co.uk

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NEWS

McAVOY AWARDED BRE BIM CERTIFICATION

O’HARE & MCGOVERN STARTS WORK ON BELFAST HARBOUR FILM STUDIOS Construction on Belfast’s newest film studios has begun ‘on location’ at Giant’s Park, Belfast. The £20million project, which will include over 120,000sqft of studios, workshops and offices, is being developed by Belfast Harbour. Designed in conjunction with Northern Ireland Screen and prospective customers, the new studio complex will provide two-state-of-the-art sound-proofed studios as part of an overall site that will also cater for outdoor filming. Newry-based O’Hare & McGovern has been awarded the contract, which

will support 200 construction jobs. Work on the studios is expected to be completed late this year and it is hoped it will be occupied by global film production companies. Eamon O’Hare, Managing Director of O’Hare & McGovern said, “This is one of the most exciting developments ever undertaken by the company. It’s another showpiece project, which, when completed, will be the landmark building on Belfast Lough’s foreshore.” For more information, telephone 028 3026 4662, or visit www.ohmg.com

The McAvoy Group, which specialises in modular buildings for the health, education and hospitality sectors, has become the first UK offsite construction company to achieve BRE BIM Level 2 business systems certification. This means that McAvoy can demonstrate compliance with the UK Government’s new BIM Level 2 requirement for centrally procured construction projects, which came into effect on April 4. McAvoy’s Design Manager, David Clark, said, ‘By harnessing BIM we can ensure all aspects of design and planning is shared and all team members are working to the same standards. Our specialist design teams have been using BIM to develop virtual models of our building spaces and construction processes, thereby providing our clients with a full understanding of their building concept as the design progresses for several years.’ For further information, telephone 0845 076 0100, e-mail buildsmart@mcavoygroup.com or visit www.mcavoygroup.com

GLASS SHUTTER COMPANY ACHIEVES FIRST HERITAGE ENDORSED CSR CARDS

EIR BUSINESS NI HELPS BALLOO HIRE REACH NEW HEIGHTS Balloo Hire, one of Northern Ireland’s leading plant, tool and equipment hire providers, has turned to eir Business NI to deliver a more robust communications platform. Offering a province-wide delivery service across five depots in Belfast, Bangor, Lisburn, Glenavy and Ballyclare, communications is critical to Balloo Hire’s business success. Significant growth in the commercial operations, expansion of its business services and the addition of new Zenith Networks Managing Director, Martin hire centres, led it to look for a more Lyons; eir Business NI Sales and Marketing Director, Matt McCloskey; and General advanced network. Manager at Balloo Hire, Mark Grundy, mark the new communications platform installed at Working with its IT partner, Zenith Balloo Hire. Networks, the company looked for a trusted provider that would ensure uninterrupted communications and optimised collaboration between its offices and clients. The company selected the cost-effective and future-proof solution from eir Business NI. The wide-area network provided by eir Business NI offers greater bandwidth and performance than before which in turn delivers better efficiency for their operations. For more information on eir Business NI, visit www.eir.co.uk

6 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

The Glass Shutter Company, from Scarva is the first company in Northern Ireland to get Heritage endorsed CSR (Construction Skills Register) cards. Director, David McClimond and employee Jonathan Black (pictured above) have both successfully completed an NVQ Level 3 in Heritage Skills Construction-Wood Occupations to enable them to achieve the endorsement. Jonathan was a trainee on the first ever Heritage Specialist Apprenticeship Programme in Wood Occupations in Northern Ireland, managed by CITB NI and funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. This programme resulted in 11 trainees receiving bespoke, structured training and assessment with experienced heritage contractors. For further information, visit glassshutter.co.uk or to find out more about Jonathan’s story, read his blog on www.citbni.org.uk/Heritage/Blogs.aspx

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NEWS

NEW DRIVE TO PROMOTE SKIN SAFETY AT WORK

GRAHAM-BAM HEALTHCARE PARTNERSHIP APPOINTED FOR ULSTER HOSPITAL SCHEME South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has appointed the GRAHAM-BAM Healthcare Partnership, a joint venture between GRAHAM Construction and BAM, to deliver Ulster Hospital’s new £95million Acute Services Block – currently the largest live healthcare project in Ireland. The Acute Services Block is part of the Trust’s wider redevelopment plan for the Belfast hospital, replacing the outdated existing main ward block and other specialist acute services within the wider hospital estate. This building will sit adjacent to a new £86million ward facility presently being constructed by GRAHAM-BAM Healthcare Partnership on the same complex, scheduled to complete in autumn this year.

The GRAHAM-BAM Healthcare Partnership was appointed to the four-year, £185 million construction framework in 2013. It has now been appointed as main contractor to deliver the second facility – an eightstorey, 31,000sqm Acute Services Block, incorporating specialist wards, support services, assessment unit, inpatient imaging department, and a new emergency department which will have capacity for 110,000 attendances per year. The scheme has been designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent and will use flat slab construction to integrate the structure with its services and the clinical spaces. For more information, visit www.graham.co.uk or www.bamcontractors.ie

HAMILTON ARCHITECTS LAUNCHES LONDON OFFICE AT WESTMINSTER A high profile audience of 60 construction, development and design experts attended the Westminster launch of Hamilton Architects’ London office. Key speaker, Vernon Coaker, Shadow Secretary of State NI, praised the expertise of Northern Ireland firms and commercial collaborations which are taking local talent on to the world stage. Oliver Colvile MP, Chair of the APPG on Excellence in the Built Environment, said that businesses like Hamilton Architects had a key role to play in informing future planning, design and building strategies. The event, at the home of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers at One Birdcage Walk, was co-hosted by MPs Gavin Robinson and Alasdair Vernon Coaker, SSoS NI (second right), pictured with McDonnell. Hamilton Architects Partners (from centre left), Mark Haslett, Seamus McCloskey and Paul Millar, at the launch For more information, visit of their new London offices, hosted by Northern Ireland www.hamiltonarchitects.co.uk MPs Alasdair McDonnell (left) and Gavin Robinson.

8 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has teamed up with the 11 district councils to raise awareness about skin safety in the workplace. Staff from HSENI and local councils will be visiting businesses to raise awareness of the importance of safe working to reduce the chances of employees suffering painful and sometimes debilitating skin conditions. Employers must identify hazards associated with substances in the workplace, such as chemical agents, and they need to prevent or adequately control any risks to workers. For more information, visit www.hseni.gov.uk/safeskin or phone the HSENI helpline on 0800 0320 121.

Launching the new drive to promote skin safety at work are Senior Environmental Health Officer at Belfast City Council, Trudy Stanfield and HSENI’s Deputy Chief Executive, Louis Burns.

ULSTER BANK BACKING MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN BY TRIANGLE HOUSING A local housing association is being given £7million support by Ulster Bank for a major programme that will deliver up to 300 new social homes across Northern Ireland over the next three years. One hundred units will be provided in 2016/17 as part of the initiative by Ballymoney-headquartered Triangle Housing Association. For more information, visit www.trianglehousing.org.uk or www.ulsterbank.co.uk

Pictured on site at a Triangle Housing Association development in Belfast are Kenton Hilman and Paul Herbison, Ulster Bank; Raymond Nicholl, Triangle Housing Association; and Alan Crilly, Triangle House Association.

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ACOUSTIC ABSORBERS

Bob Moon, Ecophon Architectural Advisor (left) showcasing Akusto One to Shaw Montgomery, Director, CCL Interiors, and Phillip Winters, Contracts Manager, CCL Interiors.

The Saint-Gobain Ecophon team pictured at the launch of Akusto One at Titanic Belfast, (from left), Andrew Acheson, Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland, Siobhan McGuinness, Area Sales Manager for Republic of Ireland, Will Jones, Marketing Manager, and Alan Crampton, Regional Manager for Ireland, Scotland and North of England.

From Tennants Building Products are Paul Mullan, David Orr and Alan Cullen.

NEW, EASY-TO-INSTALL AKUSTO ONE FROM ECOPHON GETS WIDESPREAD APPROVAL AT OFFICIAL LAUNCH…

Akusto One - a winning concept E absorbers in smaller dimensions (all 40 mm in depth), which allow users to create innovative designs and patterns on the wall. They can also be varied with white or grey painted edges. Available in different sizes, shapes and in a variety of colours, the creative possibilities are almost endless. Akusto One is part of the Akusto family of vertical independent sound absorbers, and is the perfect complement to an acoustic ceiling in environments where a full covering ceiling isn’t sufficient on its

own to create a good sound environment. However, it is also great to use as a creative design element, as it is easy to combine the different sizes, shapes and colours to create the right atmosphere. The product is easy to install, and the absorbers are ideal for creating spaces where both exceptional acoustics and aesthetics are required cost-effectively. Depending on the environment in which the panels are being used, Akusto One can be produced in either a smooth, easilycleaned surface (with colours inspired

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

cophon’s new Akusto One has been widely welcomed by architects and others in the construction industry following the product’s recent official launch at Titanic Belfast. Those attending were able to see the product first-hand and learn about its many benefits. Designed to reduce echoes, enhance speech clarity and improve acoustic performance, Akusto One is the latest expansion in the company’s vertical acoustics offering. It comprises a new series of flexible sound

“Akusto One is a frameless system available with three simple, easy installation methods.” 10 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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ACOUSTIC ABSORBERS

Two new Area Sales Managers

David Peden, CCL Interiors.

Simon Hetherington and Ray Gaston from FR Mark & Associates talk to Will Jones, Marketing Manager at Ecophon, about Akusto One.

by nature), or a fabric-textured finish that boasts a more colourful, on-trend palette for expressive walls or screen solutions. For more challenging spaces, such as sports facilities, impact-resistant wall panels are available. With the environment in mind, the panels are manufactured from 3rd generation high-density glass wool, with no added formaldehyde and a high recycled content, meeting the strictest indoor climate standards in the world. The wool also meets fire safety demands and has been tested and classified as non-combustible, according to EN ISO 1182. “In addition to the incredible design scope these panels offer, ease-of-installation is a real plus point to Akusto One,” said

Brian Gordon, Hobart Heron Architects, and Des Clayton, Knox & Clayton Architects with colleagues.

Ecophon’s Marketing Manager, Will Jones. “It really is as quick and easy to install as hanging a picture.” This can be done using Ecophon’s innovative Connect One accessories, which ensure that the panels are mounted perfectly. In addition, Akusto One is a frameless system available with three simple, easy installation methods that ensure both flexibility and precision. “Our well-known ceiling systems and freehanging units are renowned as the perfect recipe for a good acoustic environment,” said Will. “Akusto One provides that natural complement, and with the new colours offered as part of the revised Akusto family, there really is no better vertical acoustics offer.”

Saint-Gobain Ecophon has added to the company’s team in Northern Ireland with the appointments of Andrew Acheson and Siobhan McGuiness as Area Sales Managers. The company’s success has been driven by Alan Crampton and now that his role as Regional Manager has been extended to cover all-Ireland, Scotland and the North of England, these new appointments will help maintain the superb levels of service the company has become renowned for. Andrew will be responsible for Northern Ireland while Siobhan will be looking after the area that stretches from Northern Ireland down to North Dublin and across to Galway. Andrew has worked in a technical sales background with a number of local companies and is set to put this experience to good use in this new role with both architects and contractors. “Personally, moving from the distribution sector to working directly for a manufacturer was a natural step, particularly as I enjoy the technical aspect of the role,” he said. “I have been directly involved in working on commercial projects in the past, but what I am most looking forward to is being involved on projects from the initial specification stage right through to completion.” Siobhan comes from an advertising background, most recently with Specify Magazine, and she feels her people skills will help her in this new role. “This is a new area for me but sales is very much a people business and I aim to build strong relationships with architects, specifiers and contractors,” she said. “It is an exciting challenge and my job is made easier by the superb product range we are selling and the back-up services we have in place to help with every aspect of a project - from specification and design to installation and commissioning.” Contact Andrew Acheson, Area Sales Manager for Northern Ireland, telephone 07717 538983 or e-mail andrew.acheson@ecophon.co.uk or Siobhan McGuinness, Area Sales Manager for the Republic of Ireland, telephone 00353 87 9189149 or e-mail siobhan.mcguinness@ecophon.ie

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

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 11

CEF NEWS

CEF Managing Director, John Armstrong, (centre), David Fry, Federation Manager (left) and Jonathan Caughey, Schemes Manager, who presented the latest State of Trade survey.

LATEST STATE OF THE TRADE FINDINGS SHOW EU UNCERTAINTY AFFECTING THE INDUSTRY WHILE WORK IN GREAT BRITAIN AND REPUBLIC OF IRELAND ON THE DECLINE…

Construction sector remains fragile

round a fifth of Northern Ireland’s construction companies are operating at less than half capacity, with demand in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) also down. That’s according to the latest State of Trade survey from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and PwC. The survey also suggests that uncertainty over the forthcoming EU referendum outcome may be impacting on industry confidence, with 80% of Federation members saying that the UK should stay in the EU. The latest CEF assessment for the first three months (Q1) of 2016 shows that close to a quarter (22%) of companies were operating in survival mode, while the percentage of companies confident of growth and profitability fell slightly from 50% in Q1 2015 to 48% in Q1 2016. The proportion of firms reporting that their current workload had increased rose slightly to 33% in Q1 2016, from 27.5% in Q1 2015 but remained well below on the first three months of 2014 when half of companies

surveyed reported increased demand and workload. Two years ago, in Q1 2014, almost a quarter of CEF members’ work done was in construction activity outside Northern Ireland (almost entirely Great Britain and RoI). That fell to 17% in Q1 2015 and then again in Q1 2016, when only 13% of work was in GB and/ or RoI markets. The decline was largely driven by a reduction in work in GB – down from 15% in Q1 2014 to about 10% throughout 2015 and falling to 6% in Q1 2016, the survey found. Commenting on the survey results CEF Managing Director, John Armstrong, said the industry was not showing any real signs of sustainable recovery. “This is another survey which suggests that the construction sector is not sharing in Northern Ireland’s modest economic recovery, let alone the significant growth that is being exhibited elsewhere in the UK and Ireland. “The proportion of companies in survival mode is up, those anticipating growth and

profitability are down and the percentage of work in Great Britain and Ireland has fallen. “This picture is reinforced by official data from NISRA’s Construction Bulletin, which reported falling output in the latter half of 2015. “While industry output stood at £618m during Q4 of 2015 – a year on year rise of 3% - this actually represented a fall from £643m during Q1 of the year and falls significantly short of the all-time high of £904m in Q1 of 2007. “We are operating in an environment where growth in house-building is broadly flat and where output in infrastructure and roads have actually declined. “The one glimmer of light is that over a third of our members say they expect things to get better – I sincerely hope they are right. “Construction and infrastructure accounts for around 6% of UK GDP. But it also delivers instant results – direct employment, high wages, indirect jobs, and greater community cohesion. The new Executive therefore needs to work with the industry to develop and deliver a significant pipeline of projects which will be crucial to the long term sustainability and success of the construction industry in Northern Ireland. “We urge the Executive to look at their infrastructure opportunities and priorities and to act. There is an opportunity to give confidence to developers, and incentives to the industry, which combined, will accelerate growth into the economy.” CEF also reported that 60% of their full and associate members had responded to their survey in respect of EU membership, with 80% believing that the UK should remain within the EU. Only 16% of members said they would support leaving. John added, “This is an industry for which borders represent barriers, where access to the EU market is important and where mobility of labour and currency stability is crucial. “The fall in construction output across the UK in Q1 of 2016, has been attributed to concerns over the implications for continued EU membership. This may, in part account for the somewhat downbeat Northern Ireland results, but it is clear that the industry, right across the UK, has concerns about the outcome of the vote on June 23. “And while CEF has itself not taken a position on this debate, it is clear that the overwhelming majority of members are concerned at the implications for the UK of leaving the EU.”

Construction Employers Federation, 143 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6SU T: 028 9087 7143 – F: 028 9087 7155 - E: mail@cefni.co.uk W: www.cefni.co.uk

12 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

OVERVIEW MAKE A RIGHT TURN AT THE JUNCTION AND LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION TEAM COMPLETED THIS HIGH SPECIFICATION COMMUNITY FACILITYâ&#x20AC;¦ g

Stop AT THE

JUNCTION

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 13

PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

OVERVIEW

THE JUNCTION GIVES OUT ALL THE RIGHT SIGNALS AS AN INNOVATIVE SHARED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECT…

QMAC Construction helps build solid foundations for Dungannon communities

he Junction is a mixed-use £3.75 million community development, designed by Hall, Black & Douglas Ltd, and constructed by QMAC Construction Ltd. Owned by community rights-based organisation, STEP, it is an imposing threestory building situated on the busy fringes of Dungannon town centre, and the sharp, industrial style of the external façade belies the light and spacious interior of this very modern project. The funding for the landmark centre was secured under the EU’s PEACE III Programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) through the EARLS project, a partnership with STEP and the then Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council. The Junction was initially referred to as the Peace Centre, to reflect its location, origin and concept. However, the new name links the building to the previous use of the land on which it is situated. It was formerly

a railway halt for the historic Dungannon railway line and represents the junction at which the various organisations using the centre will meet. On arrival at either entrance of The Junction, the Corian panelling and lighting design is a key feature and the welcome feel is carried through to the reception desk which is inscribed with many languages to reflect the diverse range of users of the building. The project comprises of office space and meeting rooms for three anchor tenants – STEP (South Tyrone Empowerment Programme), Inspire Mental Health and Willowbank – with additional flexible, multi-purpose spaces for community use, including meeting rooms, training facilities and exhibition space, totalling 2,140 sqm. Bespoke furniture in all communal areas is of a very high specification. The beautifully designed central atrium and circulation core encourages integration with

the existing park and pedestrian walkways, while a community café leads directly onto the adjacent Railway Park. STEP’s vision for The Junction is to provide a shared space and hub enabling everyone in the Dungannon community to enjoy a range of activities, from meetings to training, workshops and events.

QUALITY SPECIFICATION As a measure of the high regard in which the building is held, main contractor, QMAC Construction Ltd, has entered The Junction into the 2016/2017 CEF Awards, as an excellent representation of a quality specification and highly serviced community project. The scheme spanned 13 months and was completed on time and to budget, with complete satisfaction from the client at handover. “Access to the site was an early obstacle

“The overall effect of the specified brick is striking, linking the internal and external finishes.” 14 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

and required the creation of a temporary road and site entrance,” said Rhona Quinn, Chairperson, QMAC Construction. “In keeping with the Considerate Constructor guidelines, substantial efforts were made to ensure that all the surrounding facilities and retail outlets experienced minimal disruption for the duration of the project.” The construction components of the project included site clearance, followed by excavation, drainage, sewerage works and installation of all the necessary utilities and associated activities. The erection of a tower crane, to facilitate movement of material to the correct elevations of the three-storey building, and all the associated activities pre-dated the commencement of the structural works. The building is of a traditional construction with concrete operations, including the foundations, and installation of precast concrete slabs and stairs. The superstructure was built in facing brick and block with structural steel providing additional support. The overall effect of the specified brick is striking, linking the internal and external finishes and further developing the natural and welcoming flow of the building. In recognition of this, the brick finish has been entered into the Brick Awards 2016, one of the most widely

respected design and construction awards in the UK, run by the Brick Development Association.

STRIKING LANDMARK The Junction is required to perform as a multi-functional building and, as such, metal stud partition systems were used to offer a cost-effective, multi-purpose solution. Further testament to the innovative specifications used included the use of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) for one entire section of the building. The architect specified particular internal wall colours on a feature staircase and centre piece lighting, all of which can be seen from the adjacent road and walkway thoroughfares. It makes for a striking landmark in Dungannon. Furthermore, the attention to detail on the internal finishes shows thought for natural flow and makes The Junction an inspiring and effective place to work. The internal lighting complements the high levels of natural full spectrum light which bathes every part of the building. Access to outdoor areas is widely available on the ground floor, with paved and landscaped areas to enjoy through additional access means, in the numerous ground floor areas. The choice and design of the extensive fitted furniture shows empathy for the anchored tenants and

the substantial requirements needed for their particular functions and client base. The project involved the full installation of M&E services, including a passenger lift, in accordance with DDA regulations, ensuring suitable access for all those who may use the building. All services were tested and successfully commissioned before handover. Landscaped and paving areas lead directly onto the adjacent Railway Park, and all tarmac and associated activities were completed with great consideration to access and usability of the area. The Junction is part of a £7million European investment project in Dungannon. “QMAC Construction Ltd is very proud to have successfully delivered this high specification project, where a significant onus was placed on meeting the needs of the end user, achieved through continuous liaison with the client and design team,” concluded Rhona.

Project team… Project: The Junction, Dungannon Value: £3.75 million Architect: Hall, Black & Douglas Ltd Main Contractor: QMAC Construction Ltd M&E Engineer: Victoria Mechanical Services Ltd Electrical Contractor: GR White & Son

QMAC Construction Ltd, Coolmaghery, 156 Pomeroy Road, Dungannon BT70 2TY T: (NI) 028 8776 7088 – E: info@qmacconstruction.com www.qmacconstruction.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 15

PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

INSULATED PANEL SYSTEM

THE CHALLENGES SET BY UNIQUE DESIGN OF THE JUNCTION IS FAST AND EFFICIENT INSTALLATION DELIVERED THROUGH THE USE OF THE TEK INSULATED PANEL SYSTEM…

A first for Leadon Timber Frame

he Junction in Dungannon is the first building of this scale in Northern Ireland to use the TEK Insulated Panel System to complete the external envelope of the building, adding both superior insulation values and air tightness over other methods. Leadon Timber Frame supplied and fitted approximately 2,200m2 of Kingspan TEK Panel for this project. This included not only the external walls but also the complete roof area, the latter of which incorporated significant detail that included many different pitch details, valley lines and hidden gutter detail. Comprising of 142mm structural insulated panels, each one was connected using a unique jointing system for walls and roofs. The fibre-free rigid urethane insulation core is manufactured with a blowing agent and sandwiched between two layers of

Oriented Strand Board (OSB/3). This is then autohesively bonded to the OSB/3 facings that have zero Ozone Depletion (ODP) and low Global Warming Potential (GWP). This process provides more reliable and superior adhesion than the secondary bonding process used in the manufacturer of most other SIPs. The unique design of The Junction made this a very interesting project from the outset. Once Leadon Timber Frame had the initial design work completed, an agreed fitting programme was drawn up. This attention to detail allows the QMAC’s Site Management to forward plan and ensure the smooth running of the installation process. Kieran Leadon, Leadon Timber Frame, concluded, “From the outset, QMAC were very organised and proved an efficient

company, making it a pleasure to work with them. We would like to wish them every success in the future.” The high standards delivered by Leadon Timber Frame are reflective of the company’s pride and passion. In addition to insulated panel systems, Leadon Timber Frame – as the name suggests – has over a decade of industry experience in the design and construction of crafted timberframe homes and structures. Established in 1998 by Kieran Leadon, a joiner by trade, that attention to detail needed within the trade has continued as the company moved into manufacturing. Leadon Timber Frame manufactures a variety of structures ranging from single domestic dwellings to multi-storey apartment blocks, nursing homes and hotels, amongst others.

Leadon Timber Frame, 79 Dunnamore Road, Cookstown, BT80 9NX T: 028 8675 1521 – E: info@leadontimberframe.com www.leadontimberframe.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

STRUCTURAL STEEL

A BESPOKE SERVICE PROVIDES THE COMPLETE PACKAGE FROM DESIGN THROUGH TO INSTALLATION OF ALL THE STRUCTURAL STEEL AT THE JUNCTION…

Strong structures from Gillen Steel

illen Steel utilised the company’s extensive experience to manufacture, supply and erect all the structural steel at The Junction. The company prides itself on the quality of its steel and the fact that Gillen Steel manufacturers all its own steel means that it can control that level of quality. Another advantage of working with Gillen Steel is that the company can deliver a bespoke solution to meet the specific needs of each individual project. Andrew Gillen, Director, Gillen Steel, explained, “Our ability to design and deliver a bespoke solution makes a real difference to contractors as it speeds up the overall installation process. All contractors want to get their project off to

the best possible start so being involved in the initial stages puts added pressure on our team. With our experience and high standards we can ensure that projects are kept on track.” The Junction was the first time that Gillen Steel worked with QMAC Construction and since then the two companies have worked together on a number of other projects. “Very quickly, we have built up a strong working relationship with QMAC Construction,” added Andrew. “I think it says a lot for the high standards that both companies strive to deliver on each project.” Based in County Armagh, Gillen Steel is an established steel fabrication company. As a sub-contract manufacturer, the

company has developed a reputation for quality work in all areas of metal fabrication and installation of cladding. From design through to fabrication and project completion, Gillen Steel offers a complete service. This has been proven on a diverse range of construction projects in both the public and private sectors, with the company handling everything from small basic steel fabrication and erection jobs to large elaborate projects. Andrew concluded, “At Gillen Steel, our specialist skill and highly professional services enables us to solve engineering problems. We have a reputation for quality and versatility and offer a wealth of experience with a guaranteed first class service.”

Gillen Steel, 27 Derryraine Road, Collone, Armagh, BT60 1NA T: 028 3752 3979 – E: gillensteel@btconnect.com www.gillensteel.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

JOINERY

COALISLAND FIRM, CANAVAN JOINERY USES STATE-OF-ART COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY TO PROVIDE PRECISION-ENGINEERED JOINERY…

Bespoke service from Canavan Joinery

anavan Joinery Services carried out major high-spec joinery work at the new Junction building. Director, Lee Canavan, explained, “Perhaps the most striking part of the project for us was the two bespoke feature walls for the entrances at the two opposite ends of the building. “The panels had to be specially manufactured in yellow Corian and the process was very involved. We used a programmable CNC joinery machine to create four different sheets and write the specified welcome message. Thanks to the computerised CNC machine, this intricate process was made relatively simple.” Canavan Joinery Services also used CNC machinery to make the bespoke Corian main reception counter, with a welcome message inscribed in 14 different languages. “The main counter had to be measured with great precision as the unusual design meant that it was set at three different angles,”

explained Lee. “It does make a striking feature though, so it was well worth the effort.” Other joinery work by the team from Canavan included the café area; kitchenettes (wall and base units, work tops etc); a counter for the upstairs reception area; oak-veneered lockers; and oak sliding screens as room dividers on the ground floor and upstairs areas. “They were big screens and one of them was really wide, so it had to be made as three screens in one,” said Lee. “It turned out to be a very tricky job as there was underfloor heating pipe in the area, which meant we only had a few millimetres tolerance to work with. “This was our first time working with main contractor, QMAC Construction, and I have to say, the team was easy to work with and it was a very positive experience. A lot of our contracts are overseas, so it was also nice to be working so close to home for a change.”

Among those overseas contracts are prestigious projects such as the ExCeL, London exhibition centre, and student accommodation at Angel Lane near the former Olympics Stadium in London. Back in Northern Ireland, another much admired project is Canavan’s joinery work at the Bluestone Unit, Craigavon Area Hospital.

Did you know... Canavan Joinery combines a long tradition for the highest quality craftsmanship with a 21st Century organization and state-of-the-art equipment. Its routers, cutters and 3-D-shaping equipment allows the company to manufacture products to exact precision and to meet the requirements of modern projects demanded by engineers, architects and designers.

Canavan Joinery Services, 5 Annaghmore Road, Coalisland, Co Tyrone T: 028 8774 7015 - E: info@canavanjoinery.co.uk www.canavanjoinery.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

MASONRY SUPPORT PRODUCTS

AWARD-WINNING SYSTEM CAN OFFER A 70% WEIGHT SAVING AGAINST AN EQUIVALENT CONCRETE PRODUCT AND 90% TIME SAVING ONSITE….

IG’s Brick on Soffit System transforms the design and installation process

G Masonry Support Systems was founded in 2013 and is part of the renowned Keystone Group. IG’s extensive experience in structural products combined with the culture of innovation which runs throughout the Keystone Group has led to the development of the most practical and advanced range of masonry support products on the market – some of which were used at The Junction in Dungannon. IG’s design team identified the need for an easy to install system for suspending brick from the underside of masonry support, producing precision finished brick soffit details. IG’s Brick Slip Masonry Support systems are one piece, prefabricated units manufactured offsite and delivered complete with bricks bonded to them. This offers a major reduction in onsite labour and installation time. All these solutions are customised bespoke to our customer’s requirements. IG’s lightweight brick slip units offer fast, hassle-free installation and are simply

installed as a traditional masonry support system. While other systems for suspending brick from the underside of masonry support require bricks to be predrilled and hung from rods or heavy precast suspended units to be bolted in place, IG’s brick slip systems are installed in exactly the same way as a normal masonry support system, negating the need for any additional skilled labour IG’s bespoke systems offer a 70% weight saving against an equivalent concrete product, negating the need for mechanical handling. IG receives a consignment of the brick being used onsite to ensure that the finished brick slip masonry support blends seamlessly with already constructed brickwork. IG’s Brick Slip Masonry Support systems offer 90% time saving onsite. This revolutionary product is highly flexible, with architects already designing new shapes for brick soffits not possible under old installation methods. Installers have been extremely impressed with the simplicity and ease of installing the

IG system while designers are impressed with the design precision and the detailing. While the industry is showing more demand for offsite solutions, IG’s brick slip masonry support and lintels offer offsite benefits of quality control, health and safety benefits on site and reduced requirement for skilled onsite labour. At The Junction, IG Masonry Support supplied the ground breaking Brick on Soffit System units. This allowed for more adjustability onsite and the solutions were customised to QMAC’s specific requirements. Kevin Carton, Construction Manager, QMAC Construction, stated, “The IG Bolt up System transformed the way we install brick soffits. This saved us a significant amount of time and cost.” This system allowed QMAC to have deep brick soffits and intricate brick patterns around window heads and openings. The IG Masonry Support System was named the Commercial Innovation of the Year at the 2015 Construction News Awards.

IG Masonry Support Systems Ltd, Ballyreagh Industrial Estate, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 9DG T: 028 86760 334 - F: 028 86761 011 www.igmasonrysupport.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

JOINERY AA Specialist Joinery delivers quality workmanship

n its latest project with main contractor, QMAC Construction, AA Specialist Joinery manufactured the internal doors, including fire-rated doors, and did the wall cladding at The Junction.

“We have worked with QMAC on a number of projects, such as Fermanagh Heritage Centre, Portora Royal School in Enniskillen and Queen’s University, Belfast,” said Director, Adrian McIlwee. “Our relationship is based on a shared ethos for high standards and a commitment to quality work which has always been at the heart of our business.” Based in County Antrim, AA Specialist Joinery is a fire door manufacturer supplying both standard and non-standard doors for both interior and ex usage for projects across the UK and Ireland. Every fire door is bespoke and carries BS Approved certification, and the Irish equivalent, for 30-minute and 60-minute rating. AA Specialist Joinery can supply the following

with improved acoustics and a full range of designs and finishing options: • UK Fire doors manufactured to bespoke specifications • 30 and 60-minute fire doors • Glass panel fire doors • Screens • Ecot Tilt sliding sash windows Martin Brady, AA Specialist Joinery added, “All our doors have been design with improved acoustics in mind and are suitable for a wide range of projects, ranging from schools and churches to public buildings and self builds. With a wide range of finishes and options, we are certain the inclusion of our doors will complement and enhance the architecture of new and existing buildings.”

AA Specialist Joinery, 15 Ballynacooley Road, Antrim, BT41 3NB T: 028 9447 3191 - F: 028 9447 8944 E: info@aajoineryltd.co.uk

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

CURTAIN WALLING, WINDOWS DOORS & GLAZING More than just a window system from Architectural Window Systems Ltd

rchitectural Window Systems Ltd (AWS) were entrusted with the fabrication and installation of the aluminium curtain walling, window, door and glazing package for The Junction in Dungannon. The company worked closely with the main contractor, QMAC Construction Ltd, to ensure a smooth installation process to meet the agreed works programme. This was a particularly important aspect of the project due to the fact that the installation of the curtain walling window system is an integral part of the overall design of the building. Architectural Window Systems Ltd utilised

the company's extensive industry experience to meet the various demands of the project and deliver high quality solutions.

Architectural Window Systems Ltd, Unit 15, Ballysaggart Business Complex, Ballygawley Road, Dungannon T: 028 8775 2828 E: info@awsni.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

ROOFING Quality craftsmanship from N&D Roofing

&D Roofing & Construction was responsible for the flat roofing construction at The Junction. The company installed Cefil PVC membranes which have been specifically developed to achieve a fast, sustainable, durable, environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing waterproofing solution. “Cefil PVC membranes have many advantages, such as flexibility and strong tear-resistance, combined with superior welding ability, low safety risks and ease of installation,” said Nigel Greer, Director, N&D Roofing & Construction. “We also installed the zinc work around the top edge of the building and round the front and back entrances. It was

done in VM Pigmento blue zinc, which looks really striking on this building.” Using modern pigment technology and showcasing the naturally grained texture of pre-weathered zinc, Pigmento by VMZINC offers a revolutionary look that blends with other coloured materials and reflects the light of its environment. In the roofing business for over 30 years, Nigel Greer works hard to achieve the highest standards, and testament to his superior craftsmanship is the fact that the company was associated with the roofing work on the iconic Titanic Belfast building. N&D Roofing has also been associated with many other big projects in Belfast, Dublin, Galway and has won international contracts in France.

N&D Roofing & Construction, 8 Ardtrea Road, Stewartstown, Dungannon, BT71 5LY T: 028 8673 5725 or 07743001571 – E: nanddroofing@btinternet.com www.nanddroofing.co.uk

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

INSULATION AND MASONRY SUPPORT SUPPLIERS

Quality products at affordable rates from JP Corry

ith over 200 years’ experience supplying quality building products to the construction industry; JP Corry once again displayed its expertise at The Junction project in Dungannon. Working closely with main contractor, QMAC Construction, JP Corry supplied Kingspan Kooltherm insulation, IG Masonry Support as well as general building materials. “We are always looking to offer quality products at affordable rates. Our customers know that when they buy from JP Corry, they can have complete confidence in the products we bring to the marketplace”

explained Neil McGeown, JP Corry Branch Manager. “JP Corry are proud to be a key supplier to QMAC Construction and would like to congratulate them on the completion of The Junction in Dungannon,” he added. With 15 branches throughout Northern Ireland, JP Corry prides itself on supplying everything from core building essentials right through to the latest product innovations. A strong reputation for high quality products and service has enabled the company to develop successfully into one of Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants.

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

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 21

PROJECT PROFILE

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

BUILDING MATERIALS

Unbeatable service from Murdock’s

elighted to be able to contribute to the development of a local community building such as The Junction, the Dungannon branch of Murdock Builder’s Merchants supplied general building materials to main contractor, QMAC Construction, on the job. “We supplied a wide range of products at key stages of the project, from exterior groundworks and drainage, to pipework and landscaping products,” said Max Wilson from the Dungannon Sales Office. “QMAC is a valued customer and so this was a major contract for us, and indeed a major development for the area. We were delighted to be able to offer same day

service to the project due to its proximity to our branch. “A number of customers in the branch have made reference to the fantastic work QMAC has done to deliver this project,” added Max. Sales Manager, Darren McConville spoke about how ensuring stock levels were appropriate was a key factor in the yearlong contract. “We ensured that the correct product range and quantities were stocked in our yard to facilitate same day delivery or collection for QMAC. In addition to this, the contractor was able to easily source additional products at short notice if needed,” said Darren.

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, 3 Granville Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone BT70 1NQ T: 028 8772 2760 - E: dungannon@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

THE JUNCTION COMMUNITY BUILDING, DUNGANNON

PARTITIONS, WALL LININGS AND CEILINGS

Straightforward solutions from Hitec

itec Solutions supplied and installed the stud partitions, external wall linings, plasterboard ceilings and Ecophon ceiling tiles on all three storeys of The Junction. “It was a fairly standard job for us,” said Director, Meaveen Bradley, who heads up the family-run business, based just outside Omagh. “The only difficulty was in having to work at high level on sloping ceilings, but that was what the job required, so our team just got on with it and produced their usual high standard of work. We have a good working relationship with the main contractor, QMAC Construction, and it was great to work with them again on this latest project.”

Hitec Solutions works across Northern Ireland and England in a variety of sectors, with recent projects including Enniskillen Castle Visitor Centre and the Gasyard Centre in Derry-Londonderry. The company used to be known as Hitec Ceilings, but changed its name three years ago to Hitec Solutions to reflect its wider scope. “We specialise in suspended ceilings, plasterboard, drylining and fireproofing,” explained Meaveen, but not everyone knew that we offered other services besides ceilings, hence the name change. It has definitely helped raise our profile and reinforces our reputation for good quality of work at very reasonable prices.”

Hitec Solutions (Ire) Ltd, 44a Inisclan Road, Mountfield, Omagh, BT79 7QB T: 028 8077 1422 - F: 028 8077 1122 E: briege@hitecsolutionsire.com

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NEWS

The Blaney TH1 15-48, a compact telehandler with a lifting capacity of 1.5 tonnes and a reach of 4.8m.

BLANEY MOTOR COMPANY LAUNCHES NEW LOADER CONCEPTS Following years of research and development and identifying key markets, Blaney Motor Company officially launched two new wheel loader concepts at the Balmoral Show. The company’s main focus has been on the agricultural sector but has recently developed a new range that will benefit the construction industry. The theme running throughout the new range of Blaney telescopic loaders and wheel loaders is that they are designed to be compact, weighing under 3.5 tonnes and small enough to transport from site to site on a small trailer. They are ideal for many uses in the amenities, landscaping, construction, self-build and road works sector. The launch included TH1 15-48, a compact telehandler with a lifting capacity of 1.5 tonnes and a reach of 4.8m. It is powered by a 50 horsepower

engine and uses a hydrostatic transmission with a four wheel drive lockable differential if required. The second concept to be launched was the L1 10-27 which is a compact wheel loader with a lifting capacity of one tonne and a reach of 2.7m. This time the engine is rated 40hp and the unit has a hydrostatic transmission with four wheel drive limited slip differential. Over the next few months the Blaney Motor team is keen to discuss the concepts with end users to further tailor the machines. Blaney Motor Company will also be looking to develop a network of dealers to represent the brand and a growing range of vehicles in the near future. For more information, telephone 028 2587 8744 or visit www.blaneymotor.com

HLM FUSION PROVIDES NEW OFFERING FOR FOOD AND DRINKS INDUSTRY Leading architecture practice HLM, with offices in Belfast, is working in partnership with specialist food and drink design practice, Fusion Design, to create HLM Fusion. The new venture combines Fusion’s specialist knowledge within the food and drinks industry with HLM’s high quality architectural designs to offer innovative solutions for the burgeoning industry in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. As a combined team, HLM Fusion provides specialist services to the food and drinks industry including strategic planning, production analysis, building design and production flows. It also offers assistance with national and

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EC legislation compliance, grant and funding assessments, and applications and feasibility studies. Karl Ruddle, who heads up HLM in Ireland, said, “As Northern Ireland plays host to the Year of Food and Drink in 2016, we have seen a recent sharp increase in expansion projects and exports, supported by initiatives such as the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s strategic action plan to support the industry in Northern Ireland. It’s an exciting time to launch HLM Fusion as a complete design service for this evidently growing industry.” For more information, telephone 028 9044 5700 visit www.hlmarchitects.com

MCALEER & RUSHE MARKS CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE AT NEW CENTRAL BELFAST OFFICE The development team of McAleer & Rushe have got together with senior members and officers of Belfast City Council to mark the ‘topping out’ of the council’s new office building on Adelaide Street. The ground and eight-storey building is being developed out by McAleer & Rushe for the council on the former Clarendon House site. Declan Boyle, Chairman of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, said, “We are delighted that McAleer & Rushe is delivering this project both within budget and ahead of time, and commend the firm on their continued commitment to Belfast. I look forward to the completion of the project, which will ensure our staff are located in a cluster with our other administrative buildings in the city centre.” For more information, telephone 028 9032 0055, e-mail info@mcaleer-rushe.co.uk or visit www.mcaleer-rushe.co.uk

McAleer & Rushe’s Chief Executive, Eamon Laverty (far left); Chairman, Seamus McAleer (second from right), and Property Director, Stephen Surphlis (far right); with Declan Boyle, Chairman of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee.

FREE SELF BUILD SERVICE Construction Information Services (CIS) has launched a new Self Build online service where you can view project details on all single dwelling or residential extensions across Ireland at Plans Submitted, Plans Granted, and Commencement stages, and specify what locations you’re interested in. By choosing a range of counties or picking from set priced regions, you can tailor Self Build to view only the projects in locations of interest to you. Simply sign up to the Self Build free service and you will gain access to 10 projects per month (T&Cs apply). For more information, visit the website at www.cisireland.com/cis-self-build

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

CIOB NEWS

NORTHERN BUILDER’S UPDATE ON THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF BUILDING (CIOB)...

Gerard Graham of Martin & Hamilton and new Chairman of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre, pictured outside the award-winning Galgorm Resort & Spa where Martin &

Hamilton recently completed an impressive new extension. INTRO...

GERARD GRAHAM, THE NEW CHAIRMAN OF CIOB IN IRELAND’S NORTHERN CENTRE, WANTS TO SEE MORE WITHIN THE INDUSTRY BENEFITTING FROM CHARTERED STATUS…

Get Chartered! G erard Graham is someone who practises what he preaches and in his new role as Chairman of the CIOB Northern Centre he wants to spread the positive message about the benefits of being Chartered. A Business Development Manager for Martin & Hamilton – which is a Chartered Building Company – the 37-year-old Dundrum native brings enthusiasm to the position, with plans to host more wideranging events that reach out to current members and, just as importantly, potential recruits. “I am honoured to have been elected to this position and I am grateful to the members for putting their faith in me,” he said. “I am looking forward to the next two years and to building on the success of my predecessors. “I am a big believer in what the CIOB stands for and the many benefits that Chartered

status can bring to both companies and individuals and this is a message I am keen to convey within the industry.” Gerard originally joined the CIOB as a student at Ulster University where he studied for a degree in Construction Engineering and Management. In later years he was Chairman of the CIOB’s Novus Northern Centre group before joining the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre committee and becoming Senior Vice-Chair, and finally succeeding Mark Gilmore as Chairman following the election of officers in April. “I really enjoyed being Chairman of Novus as it gave me the opportunity to see the next generation of Chartered members and what their expectations are within our industry. I’m hoping to bring this experience to my role as Chairman. “Personally, joining the CIOB has made a

difference to my career and I want to see others enjoy the same benefits. I have seen, first-hand, how companies and individuals have been able to use their Chartered status to secure a project. It’s a crowded marketplace and everyone is trying to differentiate themselves. Many hold the same accreditations and put forward the same views on areas such as sustainability, but being Chartered is one way for them to really stand out. “When you are speaking to clients, they sit up and take notice of Chartered status. If you work with an architect or an accountant, you want them to be Chartered. You want a way for them to prove their credentials. It’s the same in any industry, and the construction industry isn’t any different. Being Chartered displays your professionalism and your integrity.” Gerard added, “But it is not just a status

“Being Chartered displays your professionalism and your integrity.” 26 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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CIOB NEWS

that someone works hard for a couple of years to achieve, and then that’s it. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) seminars play a central role in improving the knowledge of our Chartered members and keeping them up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques.” Gerard feels his time away from the construction industry working for major Ballymena firm, Wrightbus, gives him a different perspective, particularly into the challenges faced by many Northern Ireland companies now working beyond Northern Ireland. At Wrightbus, he worked on developing new markets in America and Europe and he feels that local companies should see working in Great Britain and Ireland as an obvious marketplace to be explored. “That has been a real success story for the Northern Ireland construction industry and one I very much feel that we should build on. It showcases our quality and craftsmanship and the hard work ethic that is so prevalent in Northern Ireland. But it is a marketplace that we definitely should be developing more. “In order to do that I want to see our members thinking outside the box and gaining insights from experts outside the construction industry. We’ve a broad church of members, with many coming from a technical viewpoint and others from a commercial mind-set. I’d like to see these members coming together more and benefiting each other. We face many challenges with BIM, procurement, PQQs and the increasing digitisation of our industry, but I think CIOB members are the best placed to tackle these issues head on.”

New committee

CIOB VISITS BELFAST STUDENT ACCOMMODATION PROJECT

Newry-based Chartered Building company, O’Hare & McGovern, recently facilitated a CIOB site visit to John Bell House, which is located at the iconic former Belfast Met college at College Square East. The attendees were given a guided tour of the building by Project Manager, Edward O’Hare, and Design Manager, Eamon Laverty. The walkthrough included an overview of how the Listed building is being converted to house over 400 bedrooms as part of a £16m redevelopment project. Work includes the full refurbishment of the

existing five floors within the building as well as the addition of three floors at roof level. Commenting on the event, Gerard Graham, Chair of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre said,“This was a great opportunity for the attendees, which included students, lecturers and construction professionals, to see how a city centre building is being transformed within a challenging and restricted timeframe. We would like to pass on our sincere thanks to O’Hare & McGovern for facilitating the event.”

AWARDS SUCCESS AT ANNUAL DINNER CIOB in Ireland recently hosted the organisation’s annual dinner, which included the presentation of a number of awards for the Chartered Membership Programme (CMP). This year the Best Overall Performance Award for outstanding results in the CMP programme in 2015 in Ireland was shared between Brenda Regan and Justin Keane while the CIOB International Innovation & Research Award was presented to Dr Martina Murphy from Ulster University.

David Little, Chair of CIOB in Ireland along with Michelle McIlveen MLA, former Minister for Regional Development, presenting Brenda Regan with the joint Best Overall Performance Award for outstanding results in the CMP programme in 2015 in Ireland.

David Little, Chair of CIOB in Ireland along with Michelle McIlveen MLA, former Minister for Regional Development, presenting Justin Keane with the joint Best Overall Performance Award for outstanding results in the CMP programme in 2015 in Ireland.

The newly appointed committee of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre includes: CHAIRMAN Gerard Graham SENIOR VICE-CHAIRMAN Raymond Millar JUNIOR VICE-CHAIRMAN Paul Hanna

David Little, Chair of CIOB in Ireland along with Michelle McIlveen MLA, former Minister for Regional Development, presenting Dr. Martina Murphy from Ulster University with the CIOB International Innovation & Research Award.

Special guests (standing,from left) Maurice Johnston, Chair of CITB NI and Charles O’Neill, Immediate Past Chair CIH NI. Front (from left) Martin Hare, Past-President of RSUA; Dr Alan Skates, Chair of ICE NI; Andy Tough, Chair of RICS NI; Rhona Quinn, Past-President of CEF NI; David Little, Chair of CIOB in Ireland at the time of the dinner; Michelle McIlveen MLA, former Minister for Regional Development; Mark Gilmore; Immediate Past-Chair of CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre; and Allan McMullen, CIOB Past-President.

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

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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RAINWATER SYSTEMS

DESIGN AND FLEXIBILITY: BRETT MARTIN FINDS THE RIGHT BALANCE WHEN IT COMES TO RAINWATER SYSTEMS…

Brett Martin introduces the new Deepstyle 170

ccording to the BRE (BRE Repairing and Replacing Rainwater Goods), damaged and badly performing rainwater systems are one of the most common reasons for contractors being called back to a job, and with tighter budgets influencing the decision-making process, there is a clear need for low-cost, high quality products that deliver proven performance in the long term. In order to meet the requirements of larger commercial projects, factories, warehouses, agricultural and residential roofs, Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage has specifically developed the new Deepstyle 170 highperformance rainwater system which offers increased drainage capacity and allows larger roofs to be drained more efficiently. The Deepstyle 170 has been designed with a super-sized 170mm profile, which has a capacity of 11.54 litres per second. As well as being able to accommodate the increased volumes of rainwater on larger roof areas, it also requires fewer discharge points, reducing the number of downpipes to provide both material and installation savings on projects. Hayley Lowry, Marketing Manager, Brett Martin, said, “The robust and hard-wearing Deepstyle 170 is the ideal drainage solution

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for the larger roofs of farm buildings, factories, warehouse and apartment blocks. The drainage capacity alone provides opportunities for contractors to make savings on both downpipe system installation and underground drainage layouts.” Manufactured from modern plastic materials at Brett Martin’s own quality-assured BS EN ISO 9001:2008 factory in Mallusk, the Deepstyle 170 system is a heavy-duty gutter system. Tested to EN 1462 Load Class H to withstand snow loading, the high gloss PVC system is also proven to retain its stunning aesthetic with UV protection providing longterm colour stability – backed by a 10-year colour warranty.

FAST AND EASY INSTALLATION For ease of installation and to provide exceptional long-term sealing reliability, the system features new and innovative factory fitted ‘clip and seal’ technology on all fittings. A unique addition to Deepstyle 170, the clip and seal fully integrates with the fitting so that the specially designed captive seal is held securely within the fitting whilst the clip locks the seal firmly in place. When fitting the gutter, the clip provides just enough flex to allow the gutter to locate within the fitting,

whilst a reassuring click locks the gutter securely into position, compressing the seal for superior sealing. Available in black and grey, Deepstyle 170 integrates seamlessly with Brett Martin’s 110mm industrial downpipe system to complete the company’s high-capacity offering. Comprising 110mm plain-ended or single-socket downpipe options, with high quality PVCu fittings (including bends, branches, access pipes and clips), the system retains the adaptability essential in planning an industrial rainwater scheme. Deepstyle 170 is the latest addition to Brett Martin’s rainwater portfolio which includes 106mm Prostyle, 112mm Roundstyle, 114mm Squarestyle, 115mm Deepstyle and 160mm High Capacity, in addition to the innovative and highly acclaimed Cascade range of castiron-effect guttering and downpipe profiles. Brett Martin’s comprehensive plumbing and drainage range is underpinned by ground support from the sales team, as well as a dedicated technical department to help with technical queries. For more information, telephone 028 9084 9999, e-mail sales@brettmartin.com or visit the website at www.brettmartin.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NEWS

DARREN MCMILLAN ELECTED AS NEW CHAIRMAN OF THE CONCRETE SOCIETY NORTHERN IRELAND REGION Darren McMillan, Commercial Manager at Lagan Cement Products, has been elected as the new Chairman of the Concrete Society Northern Ireland Region. The Concrete Society in Northern Ireland has seen a Darren McMillan, new Chairman of the Concrete Society resurgence in recent years Northern Ireland Region, (left) is congratulated by his predecessor, Brian Curtis. and Darren is hoping to build on this success after togethers, including continuing taking over the chain of the success of our annual awards office from Brian Curtis. which recognise the importance “Brian has done a superb job in of this often overlooked but vitally raising the awareness of the Concrete important specialism within the Society and I hope to continue that,” construction industry.” said Darren. “Concrete, both ready Darren’s first event as Chairman mixed and pre-cast, remains an was to host a sponsors lunch at the integral part of buildings and while it Malone Golf Club at the end of May. is a traditional product, it continues For more details on forthcoming to evolve. events or for more information on “We want to continue to deliver the Concrete Society, visit a range of technical events for www.concrete.org.uk and link to both members and non-members the Northern Ireland Region. while also having a few social get-

GILBERT-ASH FIT-OUT SECURES £2MILLION BRITISH EMBASSY PROJECT IN BUDAPEST Gilbert-Ash Fit-Out has been appointed by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to complete a significant refurbishment project for the British Embassy in Budapest, in a contract worth £2million. The project, which will begin in July 2016, will see the company working in its 40th country with the FCO. The British Embassy project will involve the refurbishment of the existing Embassy building, replacement of all services, remodelling to the new layout, and, externally, upgrading the security measures and access points. The Gilbert-Ash Fit-Out team have just completed the British Consulate in Marseille and are about to handover a £5.5million refit at the British High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka,

30 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

which will also include the offices of the European External Action Service (EEAS). Andrew Whitten, General Manager of Gilbert-Ash Fit-Out, said, “Many of the Embassy buildings occupy prestigious historical buildings and therefore require specialist skills in heritage and restoration.” For more information, telephone 028 9066 4334, e-mail belfast@ gilbert-ash.co.uk or visit www.gilbert-ash.com

QUEEN’S NEW £39M BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES BUILD TO SUPPORT 550 CONSTRUCTION JOBS

With the foundation stone of the new Biological Sciences Building at Queen’s are (from left) Damien Toner, Queen’s Director of Estates; Eamon O’Hare, Managing Director, O’Hare & McGovern; Queen’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Patrick Johnston; Simon Hamilton, Minister for the Economy; St. John Hadley, Architect, Scott Tallon Walker; and Martin Lennon, O’Hare & McGovern.

Queen’s University Belfast has unveiled the foundation stone for its new £39million School of Biological Sciences. The new School will be a key driver for the development and future growth of the life sciences and agri-food sectors in Northern Ireland, which currently employ some 80,000 people and generate more than £5.5 billion in sales each year. Building the new School will also support 550 jobs in the construction sector, including staff from the main contractor, O’Hare and McGovern, and a range of other firms. The new School, which is being built at Chlorine Gardens in Belfast, will offer state-of-the art teaching and research facilities for its 750 students and 170 staff, who will tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues. This will be the 14th project O’Hare & McGovern, the Newry-based construction company, has delivered for Queen’s. The first scheme was completed in August 1989. O’Hare & McGovern Managing Director Eamon O’Hare said the new building would be a world-class facility which strengthened the firm’s long-term relationship with the university as they continued to enhance Belfast’s educational landscape. For more information on O’Hare & McGovern, telephone 028 3026 4662 or visit www.ohmg.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

EXCLUSIVELY DISTRIBUTED IN IRELAND BY

Brick Sales Limited 1 Hallstown Road, Ballinderry Upper, Lisburn, BT28 2NE T: 028 9442 8044 E: info@bricksalesltd.com www.bricksales.com

BRICK SUPPLIER

BRICKS FROM THE LEADING DUTCH MANUFACTURER ARE THE LATEST ADDITION TO AN ALREADY IMPRESSIVE LIST OF QUALITY CLAY BRICKS…

Brick Sales Limited signs exclusive deal with Caprice

rick Sales Limited has become the exclusive distributor in Ireland of the extensive range of bricks from leading Dutch manufacturer, Caprice Steenfabriek Huissenswaard. As a family business with over 150 years’ experience, Caprice is a proven and reliable partner that is focused on its customers – hence the company’s slogan, ‘Bricks with a warm heart’. This philosophy fits perfectly with Brick Sales Limited, a market leader with over 28 years’ experience in brick sales and distribution. Marc Lyttle. Commercial Director of Brick Sales, explained, “We are delighted to be able to add the Caprice range to our product offering and to be working with another family-run company like ourselves. “We are always striving to bring our customers new and innovative bricks, and that is what you will get with this range. The Caprice range not only includes the latest modern bricks but also a range of traditional finishes - it’s the perfect

balance, and we are confident that our customers will enjoy selecting these bricks for their projects.” One of the major benefits of the Caprice range is its variety. From a purely functional, standard product through to extremely precise, custom work, the possibilities are strikingly varied. This diversity ensures that Caprice can meet almost any requirement when it comes to shapes, colours, characteristics, aesthetic qualities, dimensions and textures. The Caprice range of bricks includes: • Classique – The original, and still popular, range from Caprice • Premier – Bricks with fresh, modern colours from white to black • Structeau – A range of waterstruck bricks • Sintera – A collection of bricks with engobes • Sahara - Bricks manufactured with different colours of sand.

Thanks to the company’s modern, flexible manufacturing process, Caprice is able to realise the required quantities rapidly and effectively – colour-fast, dimensionally stable and exactly according to the specifications needed! For the production process, Caprice uses sophisticated recipes from river clay and high quality Eifel and Westerwald clays. Internal quality assurance and external quality control guarantee a constant high quality of the façade bricks. The company is also committed to the environment. From the initial extraction of clay right through to the production process, it all breathes sustainability – an area of growing importance within the construction sector. All these characteristics have helped create a perfect partnership with Brick Sales Limited. Delivering a high level of choice and backing it up with superb customer service has helped the company to create a strong reputation in the industry.

“We pride ourselves on combining innovation with tradition, and the carefully selected range of manufacturers that we represent reflects this.” 32 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

BRICK SUPPLIER

“We pride ourselves on combining innovation with tradition, and the carefully selected range of manufacturers that we represent reflects this,” added Marc. “Since the company was founded in 1988, we have based our business on family values such as trust and reliability and we back this up with exceptional customer service.” Brick Sales Limited works closely with architects, specifiers, and building contractors, amongst others, to provide expert advice on all aspects of brickwork. “We have such an extensive choice, so

working closely with customers helps us to provide them with options about what they want to achieve. We can even assist with colour scheming, providing both architects and clients with computer-generated artist’s impressions of proposed finish. It makes a real difference and helps the decision-making process. “It means that we are involved from the early stages of the design process and we follow this through right to the end of the project. We are a reliable delivery partner who is committed to building long-term relationships.”

“We can even assist with colour scheming, providing both architects and clients with computer-generated artist’s impressions.”

Projects success The Caprice range has already captured the imagination of architects with a number of commercial and residential projects already specified. Marc Lyttle, Commercial Director at Brick Sales Limited, said, “Caprice really does offer something different and that is why it is inspiring so many architects and contractors. We have just secured several new specifications for Caprice bricks in Belfast city centre, along with commercial and residential projects in Dublin and Wicklow. “The variety and quality of the Caprice bricks alongside our exceptional service has meant that the Caprice range has very quickly become popular.”

Brick Sales Limited, 1 Hallstown Road, Ballinderry Upper, Lisburn, BT28 2NE T: 028 9442 8044 – E: info@bricksalesltd.com www.bricksales.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 33

EVENT

REGISTER TO VISIT THE LARGEST EXHIBITION SHOWCASING BUILDING SOLUTIONS FOR THE PLUMBING, HEATING, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL AND LIGHTING SECTORS…

Functionality is at the of Plumb Power Heat Light

HEART F

unctionality of a building is right at the heart of the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo, which takes place at the new Titanic Exhibition Centre, Belfast, on September 7-8, 2016. A new event, the specialist expo is the largest plumbing, heating, mechanical, electrical and lighting exhibition in Ireland. Recognising that, in addition to looking good, a building needs to perform well and run efficiently for its users, Plumb Power Heat Light will introduce visitors to innovative solutions for commercial, domestic, new build and upgrade projects. This offers an ideal opportunity for your organisation to gain access to all the latest products and technologies from a diverse range of manufacturers and suppliers. This is in addition to a superb opportunity to network with attendees ranging from architects, building contractors, M&E contractors and consultants through representatives of Government, public and private sectors, including those in the agri-food, education, health, leisure, manufacturing, social housing and tourism. Overall, this is an excellent event where partnerships between the building

and M&E industry can materialise, helping everyone involved in the wider construction industry to excel in Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Great Britain. With over 150 exhibitors, this event has been designed to foster closer working relationships with experts from these specialist areas while raising awareness of the latest developments in technology, issues and legislation related to engineering including mechanical and electrical. In addition to showcasing the latest products – both on the stands and through interactive displays and zones - Plumb Power Heat Light will be enhanced by a series of free seminars and areas dedicated to tools, vans/4x4s, business services and insurance. As the leading event for all those involved and interested in the design and good functionality of the built environment, architects, fellow construction professionals and anyone involved in the designing, specifying, maintaining or managing a building will benefit from attending the Plumb Power Heat Light Expo.

34 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

2 DAY EVENT

GAIN ACCESS TO ALL THE LATEST PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGIES FROM A DIVERSE RANGE OF MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS

• Air conditioning • Climate control • Energy monitoring equipment • Energy saving products • Fire and security solutions • Heating and ventilation • Lighting • Plumbing • Power and automation • Sanitary ware • Solar power • Tools and testing equipment • Training • Wind power • Vans / 4x4’s

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

LIFE A BRAND NEW INDUSTRY EVENT DESIGNED TO BRING YOUR BUILDING PROJECT TO

To visit log on to www.northernbuilder.co.uk

THURS

WED

SEPTEMBER 0708 4-9PM 10-4PM BELFAST

2016

TITANIC EXHIBITION CENTRE

or T: 028 9261 2990

RSUA DESIGN AWARDS 2016

House at Maghera named Northern Ireland’s Building of the Year RSUA DESIGN AWARDS’ JUDGES PRAISE THE WONDERFULLY CRAFTED FAMILY COUNTY DOWN HOME AS MCGONIGLE MCGRATH IS AWARDED COVETED TITLE…

36 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

he Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) has awarded the Liam McCormick Prize for Northern Ireland’s Building of the Year to ‘House at Maghera’, in Castlewellan, County Down, by multi award-winning architects, McGonigle McGrath. The family dwelling joins an illustrious list of buildings including the Giant’s Causeway Visitors’ Centre and the Lyric Theatre which have previously won the prestigious award named after one of Ireland’s greatest 20th century architects. Other winning buildings at the RSUA Design Awards 2016 included the uplifting Banbridge Health and Care Centre by Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects in association with Avanti Architects; an innovative social housing scheme in Carryduff for Choice Housing designed by PDP London Architects; and the sensitively restored Graduate School at Queen’s University by Consarc Design Group. Martin Hare, RSUA President, said, “The

RSUA Design Awards’ primary purpose is to promote excellence in the design of our built environment, with the view to making Northern Ireland a better place to be. “There is no doubt that all 13 projects that have received awards this year have truly enhanced our landscape and our communities. These projects demonstrate the positive impact good design can have on our society, including its critical role in making Northern Ireland a more attractive place for citizens, tourists and investors. “I applaud the determination of the clients, architects and everyone involved in the delivery of these projects as they have upheld design quality, often against a backdrop of severe budgetary pressures. “It shows it can be done, and sets down a challenge to everybody involved in creating our built environment to match or even exceed that design quality. We all have a role in creating a brighter future for Northern Ireland and architects are ready to play their part.”

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RSUA DESIGN AWARDS 2016

SPONSORS

House at Maghera – winner of the Liam McCormick Prize.

Kieran McGonigle (left) and Aidan McGrath (right), are presented with the Liam McCormick Prize by Martin Hare, RSUA President.

WINNERS ON NEXT PAGE g

“There is no doubt that all 13 projects that have received awards this year have truly enhanced our landscape and our communities.”

Enda Clarke, Barbara Elwood and Alan Currie

Guests of Lowry Building

Steve Aiken, Johnny Cassidy and Robert Gilmour

Damian McLoughlin, Martin Bogan and Barry Crozier

Ciaran Fox, Catherine Fox, Sharon Hare and Martin Hare

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Alan Barr, Colin Robinson and Kevin McShane

John Lavery, Paul McAlister and Caroline McAlister

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 37

RSUA DESIGN AWARDS 2016

Brendan Curran, Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council presents the Best Conservation of Built Heritage Award to joint winners Consarc Design Group for the Graduate School at Queen’s University Belfast and Caroline Dickson Architects/Hearth Housing Association for Sion Mills Stables, Co.Tyrone.

Ciaran McConnell, Managing Director of JP Corry Ireland, presents the Best Commercial Project Award to Doherty Architects for the Creative Industries Building, Weaver’s Court, Belfast.

Roisin McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council, presents the Integration of Art Award to White Ink architects and the artist Spencer Luckey for The Atrium at W5, Odyssey, Belfast.

Siobhan McCauley, Director of Regional Services at the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, presents the award for the Best Social Housing Project to Choice Housing Ireland on behalf of PDP London Architects for Killynure Green, Carryduff.

Mike Spence, Deputy Director of the Department of Finance’s Central Procurement Directorate, presents the award for the Best Public Building Over £3m to Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects in association with Avanti Architects for Banbridge Health and Care Centre.

Winning projects reflect excellence IN DESIGN THE INCLUSION OF NEW CATEGORIES TO RECOGNISE SMALLER PROJECTS ADDS TO THE BREADTH OF PROJECTS RECOGNISED BY THE JUDGES…

hile McGonigle McGrath takes the plaudits for the Liam McCormick Prize winning project, House at Maghera, the RUSA Design Awards 2016 have also illustrated the breadth of quality work carried out by architects. This year’s awards included a number of new categories, including those that recognised smaller projects, yet each winner had one common denominator – they all promoted excellence in the design of our built environment with the view to making Northern Ireland a better place. The RSUA Design Awards 2016 winners included: Liam McCormick Prize Winner: House at Maghera, Castlewellan, Co.Down by McGonigle McGrath About: This family home for a professional couple and their three children was designed to be bright and spacious and complementary to the character or the village.

39 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Best Social Housing Project sponsored by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive Winner: Killynure Green, Carryduff by PDP London Architects About: A social housing development commissioned by Choice Housing Ireland with sustainability at its core. Best Single House or Extension Over £100,000 sponsored by Lowry Building and Civil Engineering Joint Winners: Grillagh Water House, Maghera, Co. L’derry by Patrick Bradley Architects and House at Maghera, Castlewellan, Co.Down by McGonigle McGrath About: Grillagh Waterhouse is an experimental housing project designed to help change the perceptions of what rural contemporary architecture is or can be.

project also won a RIBA Regional Award and RIBA Regional Client of the Year Award. About: One of a series of ‘Homes from Home’ for CLIC Sargent, the Cancer Charity. This facility offers the families of children undergoing treatment in the nearby Regional Cancer Centre free accommodation for the duration of the treatment. It also separately accommodates the charity’s local office. Best Public Building Over £3millon sponsored by the Central Procurement Directorate of the Department of Finance Winner: Banbridge Health and Care Centre by Kennedy Fitzgerald Architects in association with Avanti Architects. This project also won a RIBA Regional Award. About: A local health facility to provide a range of primary care, community care and acute diagnostic services.

Best Public Building Under £3millon sponsored by the Central Procurement Directorate of the Department of Finance Winner: Home from Home, near Belfast City Hospital by McGonigle McGrath. This

Best Commercial Project up to £3million sponsored by JP Corry Winner: Creative Industries Building, Weavers Court, Belfast by Doherty Architects About: A building that was a candidate for

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RSUA DESIGN AWARDS 2016

Killynure Green, Carryduff – winner of the Best Social Housing Project Award.

The Graduate School at Queen’s University Belfast – joint winner of the Best Conservation of Built Heritage Award.

Sion Mills Stables – joint winner of the Best Conservation of Built Heritage Award.

CREST Pavilion, Enniskillen – winner of the Sustainability Award.

Lagan Weir Footbridge – winner of the Best Use of Public Space Award.

Girdwood Community Hub – winner of the Regeneration Award.

Grillagh Water House – joint winner of the Best Single House or Extension Award.

Banbridge Health and Care Centre – winner of the Best Public Building Award.

“Promoting excellence in the design of our built environment with the view to making Northern Ireland a better place.” demolition and replacement became the feature of this project to provide Grade A office space on behalf of Linfield Properties. Best Public Space sponsored by the Department for Infrastructure Winner: Lagan Weir Footbridge, Belfast by AECOM About: The bridge, designed for both cyclists and pedestrians, was conceived as a silver blade spanning the River Lagan and as an extension of the public realm from Donegal Quay. Best Cultural Project sponsored by the Department for Communities Winner: Portico, Portaferry, Co Down by Maxwell Pierce About: The Friends of Portaferry Presbyterian Church took action to save this Grade A listed building and to put in place a sustainable business plan involving the building being used by the wider community.

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Best Conservation of Built Heritage sponsored by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council Joint Winner: The Graduate School at Queen’s University Belfast by Consarc Design Group. This project also won a RIBA Regional Award and a RIBA Regional Conservation Award. About: The Grade B listed Lynn Building is a high profile building on the main site at Queen’s University and one of the best examples of Ruskinian Gothic architecture in Belfast. Joint Winner: Sion Mills Stables, Co.Tyrone by Hearth Housing Association and Caroline Dickson Architects. About: One of the most prominent building in the Sion Mills conservation area which had been disused for 50 years has been transformed into an educational and community facility including a cafe, museum and craft shop.

Belfast by Michael Whitley Architects About: The Hub is the first element of the development of a 14-acre former military barracks site in a contested part of lower north Belfast. The facility, commissioned by Belfast City Council, is a community space aimed at supporting peace, reconciliation and further investment in the area. Sustainability Award sponsored by the Strategic Investment Board Winner: Crest Pavilion, Enniskillen by Paul McAlister Architects Ltd About: The educational facility for South West College doubles as a teaching model of sustainable construction for the local building sector. Integration of Art Award sponsored by the Arts Council Winner: The Atrium at W5, Odyssey,

Regeneration Award sponsored by Metal Technology Winner: Girdwood Community Hub,

Belfast by White Ink About: An art installation which is designed to be climbed.

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 39

COMPANY PROFILE

Irwin’s new mechanical division will provide the complete M&E service

The award-winning 5G Innovation Centre for the university of Surrey an example of the M&E services now available from Irwin M&E Limited.

MECHNICAL, ELECTRICAL AND INTEGRATED FM SERVICES NOW AVAILABILE FROM IRWIN…

rwin Electrical has marked the company’s 20th anniversary by expanding into the mechanical sector and now offering a complete M&E service. Now known as Irwin M&E Limited, the company has officially launched a mechanical division that will build on its growing success in this area. Richard Megarity, Operations Director at Irwin M&E, explained, “This was a logical next step for us and we are now offering mechanical services alongside our established expertise in the electrical and integrated FM sectors. Both in terms of new build and maintenance contracts, the industry is now moving towards a more integrated approach with regards to M&E, so it is important that we are now able to react to this demand. “We have already completed a number of mechanical contracts, including the Cadogan Place Apartments in London, the award-winning 5G Innovation Centre for the University of Surrey; and 4-5 Park Place, London, while we are two years into the Education Authority Western Region M&E term service contract, so we have a proven track record.” Heading up the new mechanical division at Irwin M&E is Glenn Coburn, Senior Mechanical Contracts Manager, who has

been appointed recently alongside a number of new mechanical personnel. “I am really looking forward to the new challenge at Irwin M&E,” said Glenn. “The company’s past success in the mechanical sector has provided us with a solid foundation to build on and we are already very busy, which is a great sign.” The mechanical division will enhance an already impressive service from Irwin M&E, which now includes mechanical and electrical installations for new build and restoration/refurbishment projects alongside maintenance and compliance testing services. Irwin M&E Limited has also integrated BIM into its services and has combined this with the latest 3D software and CAD technology. The company prides itself on building strong relationships with clients and, according to Managing Director, Keith Stewart, that will continue. “In the electrical sector we are known for going the extra mile and that will continue with our mechanical services,” he said. "It is that personal touch sets us aside. We are competitive on price and we provide high quality services, but we also think longterm to ensure we are in a prime position to look ahead confidently.”

New website launched To coincide with the company’s 20th anniversary and the launch of the new mechanical division, Irwin M&E has unveiled the company’s new website. “As we secure more work outside Northern Ireland it is important that we get our corporate message out there and the easiest way to do this is via our website,” explained Keith Stewart, Managing Director. “It coincides with the unveiling of our new name and logo and provides an insight into our company and our projects.” Visit the new website at www.irwinm-e.com

Irwin M&E Limited, Unit 4 Diviny Drive, Carn Industrial Estate, Portadown, County Armagh, BT63 5WE. T: 028 3839 7990 www.irwinm-e.com

40 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

BUILT TO LAST MODULAR BESPOKE SPACE SOLUTION What can you expect? • 3 coat paint system average 240 microns • 4mm & 2mm steel fully seam welded to

• On-board generator • Emergency back-up lighting

• Electrics to regulated standards

Lloyds register

• Remote management via modem control

• Wall covering options (up to food safe standards)

• Life 25 - 50 years with 2 years warranty

• Galvanised insulated floors

• Fire rated 60 mins or 120 mins

• BT and Cat5 data trunking

• Single or double glazed window options

• Oil or electric central heating

• Three types of secure access doors

MADE TO ORDER - TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT SOLUTIONS

GENERAL CABINS & ENGINEERING LTD 21-25 Corr Road, Killyman, Dungannon, BT71 6HQ. Tel: +44 (0)28 8774 7566 - Fax: +44 (0)28 8774 6866 Email: info@generalcabins.com

www.generalcabins.com www.generalranges.com

CONCRETE

TRACEY CONCRETE’S PERFECT BASE IS THE ULTIMATE MANHOLE SOLUTION, WITH EACH INDIVIDUAL BASE CUSTOM DESIGNED TO SUIT ANY INLET/OUTLET CONFIGURATION…

The future of manhole construction

he only one of its kind in Northern Ireland, the new Perfect Base system from Tracey Concrete is a state-ofthe-art manhole base system which gives the contractor onsite the option of any angle and any number of inlets for their manhole base. Providing a fully bespoke ordering service to suit the project, the Perfect Base system is regarded throughout the UK and Europe as the market leader in terms of both quality and technical performance. Installation of the system is quick and safe - simply lift the base into position, connect the pipes and add the rings and cover slab. This eliminates the need for valuable time onsite spent cutting openings in manhole rings and benching in-situ concrete. Tracey Concrete manufactures a Perfect Base to suit any pipe type specified, so there is no issue with adapter connections and unsealed manholes. The bases are

42 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

Advantages CUSTOM DESIGN: Each base designed to exact inlet and outlet angles. CUSTOM CONNECTIONS: Manufactured with collars cast in to suit any pipe joint being used on site (concrete, plastic or clay).

CE Marked, BSI Kitemarked to BS EN 1917:2002 and BS 5911-3 and have been accepted for use by all major UK water authorities. The launch of Perfect Base adds to the company’s expertise. Tracey Concrete has been specialising in water management systems for the past 25 years and has a wide range of precast products. “We have supplied drainage products to many major projects in Northern Ireland over the last number of years, such as the Titanic Signature Project and, more recently, the A8 Belfast to Larne upgrade,” said Anton Tracey, Tracey Concrete. “Our aim is to develop the most innovative products in the precast industry to help provide economical and environment friendly solutions to the construction market.” For further information, telephone 028 6632 6437or visit www.traceyconcrete.com

WIDE WALL: No concrete surround needed to be shuttered onsite. WATERTIGHT: Spigot and socket joint with rubber seal ensures watertight chamber structure. FASTER: Installation times significantly shorter than traditional onsite benching methods. SAFER: No need for in-situ concrete work within limited working space. LONG LIFE: 120-year design life due to high quality concrete construction. COVER SLAB OPENINGS: Standard and bespoke cover slab openings available. LIFTING ANCHORS CAST IN: Safe, swift and efficient installation.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

MERCHANT NEWS

MURDOCK’S BALBRIGGAN BRANCH THANKS CUSTOMERS WITH PRIZES AND PROMOTIONS GALORE AT 10TH ANNIVERSARY BREAKFAST MORNING…

Murdock’s Balbriggan celebrates 10th anniversary

he Balbriggan branch of Murdock Builder’s Merchants celebrated 10 successful years in business with a special anniversary breakfast morning on May 27. Supported by representatives from suppliers, Acheson & Glover, Tegral and Keylite, staff at the County Dublin branch organised a breakfast van to feed hungry visitors, and laid on lots of prizes, offers and in-store promotions on the day and in the week leading up to the event, as a way of saying thanks to their many loyal customers. Some fantastic prizes were up for grabs, including an Ireland Euro 2016 jersey, a Dublin GAA jersey and a Leinster Rugby jersey, as well as industry-related items such as £250 worth of paint, and two pairs of Sixton boots. Buy-one-get-one-free offers, price slashes on Makita 18v combi drills, and a free brush with every purchase of Ronseal Fence Life were among the promotions on offer, while anyone buying a Keylite roof window or

“Our staff have worked hard over the past 10 years to build up Balbriggan.” 44 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

MERCHANT NEWS

New improved website

“We have a very loyal customer base and it was great to celebrate this anniversary milestone with them.” Keystone lintel in the week leading up to the anniversary was entered into a draw for an iPad mini, courtesy of Keystone. “We had a great uptake of visitors to the store all week,” said Gareth O’Hare, Sales Manager, Balbriggan. “As one of Murdock’s leading branches we are generally kept very busy and it was great to celebrate 10 years of business with a fun, relaxed morning which our staff and customers all enjoyed.”

Murdock’s Republic of Ireland Sales Manager, Gary Craven, added, “Our staff have worked hard over the past 10 years to build up Balbriggan. It has fought very successfully through the depths of the recession in Ireland and, with a good plan of action, we have become stronger as a result. We have a very loyal customer base and it was great to celebrate this anniversary milestone with them.”

Check out Murdock Builder’s Merchants’ new improved website, which went live in April. “We have updated and refreshed the website to replicate the service and product knowledge that is already the norm in our shops. We want our online customers to get that same quality experience,” said Murdock’s Digital Marketing Executive, Richard Reynolds. “Features now include the latest news and information from Murdock’s, offers and promotions and a trade log-in section which allows registered trade users to quickly access features such as their latest month-end statements and transactions. It also has a facility for credit notes and printing invoices.” The website is fully interactive with Murdocks’ other social media outlets and is fully optimised for mobiles and tablets. Visit www. murdockbuildersmerchants.com

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Unit 4, M1 Business Park, Balbriggan, Dublin K32 KT18 T: (NI) 00353 1690 4300 - E: balbriggan@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 45

SCREEDS

JORIS SMET, DIRECTOR, SMET BUILDING PRODUCTS OFFERS SOME ADVICE AND INFORMATION ON LAYING SCREED FOR UNDERFLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS…

Trouble-free screed laying in combination with UFH systems

he design and installation of screeds are governed by standards which must be adhered to by flooring contractors to ensure trouble-free screed laying. These are: BS EN 13813 – ‘Screed material and floor screeds - Screed material – Properties and requirements’; BS 82041 – ‘Screeds, bases and in-situ floorings. Concrete bases and cementitious levelling screeds to receive floorings – Code of Practice’; BS 8204-7 – ‘Screeds, bases and in-situ floorings. Pumpable self-smoothing screeds – Code of Practice’; and DIN 18560 – ‘Floor screeds in Building Construction’. The specification of a floor screed will vary depending on the requirement for its loadbearing capacity, durability, surface-levelling requirements, final floor covering, time-frame and consideration of environmental aspects.

METHODS Screed can be installed using three main methods: bonded, unbonded and floating (heated or unheated) screed construction. Bonded screeds are described in BS 8204-1, BS 8204-7 or DIN 18560 Part 3. These are fully bonded to the base. The strength of a bonded screed depends on the type of use. Unbonded screeds are described in BS 82041, BS 8204-7 or DIN 18560 Part 4. These screeds are laid on a separating layer (ie not bonded to the base), as typically a DPM is placed under the screed. Specification of the screed thickness should take account of BS 8204-1, BS 8204-7 and DIN 18560 Part 1.

Floating screeds to BS 8204-1, BS 8204-7 or DIN 18560 Part 2. An insulation layer is used to enable installation of thermal or acoustic insulation. The screed is laid on top of insulation to create a thermally-efficient floor. Floating screeds are commonly used where underfloor heating systems are provided or thermal or acoustic insulation is required. The thickness is determined by the binder type, projected live loads and final floor finish. Heated screed is a floating screed to BS 8204-1, BS 8204-7 or DIN 18560 Part 2, where the floating screed layer is installed over underfloor heating pipes. The screed serves to conduct the heat evenly across the floor surface, avoiding hot or cold spots. In order that heat propagates only in the required direction of the room to be heated or cooled, the elements are inserted above insulating panels.

manufacturer of the proprietary system. With BS 8204 Part 7 applicable to cementitious and calcium sulphate-based self-smoothing heated screed constructions, the thickness of the screed should be as detailed in section 6.4 (40mm minimum for commercial and 35mm minimum for domestic applications). It should also ensure a minimum cover over the heating pipes or

Screed Heating element Cover layer Insulation Structural base

Construction A Screed Cover layer

LAYING With BS 8204 Part 1 mainly applicable to sand and cement and fine concrete-heated screed constructions, heated levelling screeds are generally laid in conjunction with proprietary underfloor heating systems as floating screeds over thermal insulation. The heating pipes or cables should be secured in position (their installation details should be provided by the manufacturer of the heating system). Cementitious levelling screeds should be laid at the thicknesses recommended in 6.4.3c (75mm minimum or 65mm for domestic applications) unless otherwise specified by the

Heating element Insulation Structural base Screed Separating layer Levelling screed Heating element Cover layer Insulation Structural base

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SCREEDS

The use of these new screed products means that tiles may be installed in as little as 24 hours (Sopro Rapidur FE 678) or three days (Sopro Rapidur B5) after screed laying. This has the result of speeding up the entire screed-laying process, allowing quick access to follow-on trades. Comparison with times required for normal-settingscreeds: DAY 1

DAY 7

DAY 14

DAY 21

Ready for tiling after 28 days (+2-6 weeks)

Cement screed

Heating up as of Day 21

Ready for tiling after 21 days (+2-6 weeks)

Calcium suplhate (anhydrite) screed Cement screed with Sporo Rapidur® B1 binder, M1/M5 or Rapidur® FE678

DAY 25

Heating up as of Day 7

Ready for tiling after day 1 (27 days saved) Heating up as of Day 3

Cement screed with Sopro Rapidur® B5 binder

Heating up as of Day 3

cables of 25mm for a calcium sulphate-based screed or 15mm for a cement-based screed. Cement-based screeds should not be heated until they are cured and dried because of the increased risk of cracking. DIN 18560 Part 2 distinguishes between three heated screed constructions. For Construction A (see diagram), the screed thicknesses determined using DIN 18560 Part 2, Tables 1–4 should be increased by the external diameter of the heating pipe. For flexural tensile strength class F4, the minimum pipe cover totals 45mm for cementitious screeds and 40mm for self-levelling calcium sulphate screeds where natural stone and ceramic coverings are installed. • Example 1. Cementitious screed (CT-F4) t = 45mm. Heating pipe diameter = 15mm ➨ 60mm total screed thickness. • Example 2: Self-levelling calcium sulphate screed (CT-F4) t = 40mm. Heating pipe diameter = 15mm ➨ 55mm total screed thickness.

AVOIDING FAILURES IN HEATED SCREEDS Historically, floor screed failures have regularly resulted from the interaction of heated screed constructions with a wide range of coverings. Failure by the contractor to check on residual moisture and consequent installation of coverings on an overly wet screed may have serious implications for the durability and longevity of the flooring. The maximum permissible residual moisture

(measured using a CM tester) is 2% for cementitious screeds and 0.5% for calcium sulphate screeds.

Temperature 55 °C

setting time

commisioning heating

55°

25 °C

UFH SYSTEMS COMMISSIONING Apart from measuring the residual moisture in the substrate, the contractor should also examine the commissioning report for the floor heating system and inspect the screed for possible cracking. The commissioning procedure serves to check the performance of the floor heating system and screed. DIN 4725, Part 4 provides for the heating up of cementitious screeds after 21 days, calcium sulphate screeds after seven days, and rapid-set screeds (eg Sopro Rapidur B5) after three days (see graph right).

FAST-TRACK SCREED LAYING Rapid-Set Systems allow fast-track screed laying in conjunction with UFH. However, it’s inevitable that the lengthy drying times required for traditional screeds are frequently at odds with tight construction programmes and deadlines. Depending on their coat thickness, standard cementitious screeds need between four and ten weeks to achieve the prescribed 2% CM residual moisture content. The drying process may be accelerated through the use of specially designed binder mixes suitable for the production of cement screeds. Available from SMET, there are new screed

tile laying

25° 3 days 24 hrs. 3 days 7 days 21 days

days

4 days

Sopro Rapidur ® FE/B1 Sopro Rapidur ® B5 calcium sulphate screed cementitious screed

products available, such as Rapidur B5 rapid-set screed binder and Rapidur FE 678 self-levelling screed (ready-to-use dry mix) which can be used to produce screeds that dramatically reduce the time of drying. These allow early flooring installation that complements UFH systems, while exhibiting all the properties of, and delivering the same performance as standard cement screeds. The use of these new screed products means that tiles may be installed in as little as 24 hours (Sopro Rapidur FE 678) or three days (Sopro Rapidur B5) after screed laying. This has the result of speeding up the entire screed-laying process, allowing quick access to follow-on trades. If you are a flooring contractor and wish to discuss these ‘next generation’ screed solutions or you have a job to lay in combination with UFH, track-track or otherwise, contact the screed specialists at SMET.

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PRODUCT NEWS

THE FOCUS OF CONTECH’S 7 SERIES RANGE IS INNOVATION AND QUALITY, WITH THE BACKUP OF AN EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE…

Superior sealants from Contech

he 7 Series from Contech Building Products is a range of quality products for professionals, which includes innovative adhesives and sealants; cleaners and degreasers; expanding foams that stop expanding when they meet resistance; penetrating oils; and the renowned Tec7 MS polymer-based glue that bonds, seal and mounts, even under water. Contech is the preferred supplier to the Grafton Group, which has over 50 stores located throughout Ireland and, following this successful Irish model, Contech also now has a network of agents throughout the UK. As the exclusive distributor of Tec7 and the 7 series range of products, Contech offers a 24-hour technical and customer support service. You can also avail of Contech’s Tec7 website, which provides an in-depth focus on the entire Tec7 range, examining the wide array of product features and benefits, along with a series of ‘How To’

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features which guide the user on best practice across a spectrum of projects, from refreshing the look of bathooms to making essential repairs to pipework. This is backed up by a section that includes numerous product demonstration videos, plus features and helpful hints.

Stockists of the Tec7 range can be easily located, thanks to a link which details all the outlets which can supply this versatile range of products. To find out more, contact Contech Buildings Products on 00353 1 629 2963 or log on to www.tec7.ie

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

AN INTRODUCTION... FORM AND FUNCTION COMBINE AT THE WORLD-CLASS WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE IN BELFASTâ&#x20AC;¦g

Reshaping an

ICON

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

ARCHITECT

THE ADDITION OF A NEW EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE BRINGS ITS OWN ARCHITECTURAL FORM TO THE ICONIC WATERFRONT HALL IN BELFAST…

Todd Architects shows respect for a true original

he opening of the Waterfront Hall in 1997 heralded a bright new start for Belfast’s architecture which has since inspired a significant change that can be seen right across the city’s skyline. So, when the decision was made to add a new exhibition centre to the Waterfront Hall, the design challenge was to create a seamless link that didn’t take away from an iconic sight that the city has taken to its heart. While the media unfairly commented on the project before it was even completed, now that the finishing touches have been added to this significant development, it can be judged on its merits - and for Todd Architects + Planners the project remains a source of great pride. The Belfast-based practice was the design

architect for the new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, being responsible for the design development to RIBA Stage E. McLaughlin & Harvey was appointed as the main contractor, with McAdam Design retained as the company’s delivery architect. Having been involved in the award-winning Titanic Belfast project, Todd Architects + Planners already had proven experience working on iconic buildings in the city. “The Waterfront Hall is a well-respected building in Belfast and we treated it as such,” explained Peter Minnis, Director at Todd Architects + Planners, “but we also wanted the extension to establish its own identifiable architectural language and form while still respecting the original, circular building. “For this reason, we retained the extension

at a height where the dome of the hall behind is still identifiable.” Expressed as a long-slung ‘box’ with its front face extending along the length of the river frontage, the new accommodation, in essence, is wrapped around the existing building over three primary levels. However, rather than just being an add-on, the extension has been carefully knitted to the original building to maximise the logistical and efficiency benefits of sharing support spaces such as foyers, bars and toilets. It is clear that the design brief – not to mention the actual build – placed many seemingly insurmountable obstacles in the way of the project team. The fact that the project team managed to clear these hurdles speaks volumes.

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PROJECT PROFILE

Project team... Project: Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre To begin with, the fully integrated 4,000m2 extension was a sizeable addition to the building, yet the surrounding space was limited. “It was the equivalent of adding a space the size of the King’s Hall onto the side of the Waterfront Hall. We had the river on one side and also a public walkway to contend with, so, all things considered, there really only was one area where it could go,” explained Peter. That ‘one area’ was over an existing service yard that was shared with the Waterfront Hall and the neighbouring Hilton Hotel. With the location selected, the design team had to think not only in terms of building aesthetics but also about buildability. Peter added, “With the river on one side and a public walkway to consider, access was difficult. It was a case of McLaughlin & Harvey having to use travelling cranes and simply start at one end and work their way back, and they did a fantastic job, particularly as the Waterfront had to remain operational throughout the project.” Given the Waterfront Hall’s prominent location, the aesthetics of the building are equally as important. The upper levels where the halls are located project over the largely glazed accommodation below, allowing them to effectively ‘float’ – an effect that

is heightened through the incorporation of highly reflective soffit panels to the cantilever. The upper levels are faced in coloured, translucent polycarbonate panels, with flush, recessed and projecting glazed elements providing animation and adding depth to the elevation. They sit above a curtain-walled base of clear and lookalike glass panels. Alongside buildability and aesthetics, the final piece in the jigsaw was function. The world-class conference centre has doubled the event space at the Waterfront Hall to 7,000m2, all of which has been seamlessly integrated into the existing facility. The additional space has created two interconnecting multipurpose halls spanning over 2,500m2. Also included in the new extension are three large meeting rooms, each accommodating up to 200 delegates, which can also be sub-divided into six smaller rooms; two exterior terraces with stunning riverside views; and a new, dedicated riverside entrance leading to a 660m2 reception area. “Flexibility was the key throughout and achieving this has helped create a world-class venue that allows Belfast to compete on the international conference stage,” concluded Peter.

Client: Belfast City Council Value: £25million

ICT Team Leader and Quantity Surveyor: WH Stephens Design Architect, Planner and Interior Designer: Todd Architects Structural and Civil Engineer: RPS Consulting M&E Engineer: Mott MacDonald CDMC: Hasco Europe

IST Main Contractor: McLaughlin & Harvey Delivery Architect: McAdam Design Structural and Civil Engineer: Doran Consulting M&E Engineer: WYG Structural Steel: Walter Watson M&E Sub-contractor: Harvey Group NEC Project Manager: Sweet Group

Todd Architects + Planners, 2nd Floor, Titanic House, 6 Queen’s Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT. T: 028 9024 5587 www.toddarch.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

M&E CONTRACTOR 20 YEARS SINCE THE COMPANY PROVIDED AN INNOVATIVE SOLUTION AT THE WATERFRONT HALL, HARVEY GROUP AGAIN SIMPLIFIES A COMPLEX M&E INSTALLATION FOR THE NEW WORLD-CLASS EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE…

Harvey Group’s encore at new Waterfront Hall extension

hen it comes to Design & Build (D&B), HG (Harvey Group PLC) is the company to turn to. Almost 20 years after Harvey Group PLC first installed the mechanical building services to the original Waterfront Hall, the company has once again returned to deliver the M&E design and installation of the new Waterfront Hall extension. The new £30million Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre, which was contracted under an NEC Option A form of contract, enabled Harvey Group to showcase the company’s ability to manage the full design and installation of the £11million building services. Aiming for - and attaining - a BREEAM Certification of ‘Very Good’, Harvey Group, through its design development partnership

with White Young Green, was able to increase the energy efficiency of particular aspects of the building by introducing higher-efficiency LED lighting and heating systems. Working closely with the integrated supply team, the company also undertook to produce 3D co-ordinated drawings to marry the old and new services together and produce subsequent operational information for the client. This innovative approach to building services integration is something that Harvey Group has fully incorporated into the company’s standards and Harvey Group has recently been accredited with industrial recognition for its BIM Level 2 implementation – the first M&E supplier in Northern Ireland to have been so.

“Being able to work closely with the main contractor and other sub-contractors to create a BIM model allows us to be as precise as possible.” 52 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

M&E excellence... The mechanical and electrical installation by Harvey Group at the Waterfront extension included:

MECHANICAL • Domestic services including sanitary ware • New ultra-efficient Hoval Ultragas boilers • Underfloor heating to reception areas • Variable temperature heating system • CHP integration • Fan coil installation • New ultra-quiet chiller installation • Chilled water installation • Ventilation installation including high-efficiency AHUs • Smoke ventilation and fire control • Kitchen and banqueting installations • VRF AC to comms rooms • Trend BMS system

ELECTRICAL Commercial Manager, Ryan McLernon, commented, “The new Waterfront Exhibition and Conference Centre allowed us to demonstrate a few of our Unique Selling Points (USPs) in a competitive marketplace. Design and Build is one such USP. “We contracted M&E consultants and were wholly responsible for the effective design and installation of the building, successfully meeting all targeted performances and, in some instances, bettering them. “Also, we were able to add to our growing portfolio of NEC projects, which require full team buy-in to maximise the benefit for the client and ensure value for money. We share in the ethos of NEC, in that, we wish to partner other parties in

the supply team and carry out the works in a team environment, where trust and cooperation are key ingredients. “We find our experience in these areas, along with our tried and tested experience with projects of this size, aids in a successful completion and a building that the client is happy with.” During a recent visit by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Arder Carson, said, “I’m blown away by what we’ve been shown today and firmly believe that business delegates travelling to Belfast will feel the same, once they step inside this outstanding space.” The Waterfront Hall extension is hailed as the most significant and exciting project for tourism since the opening of Titanic Belfast, which Harvey Group also completed.

• HV distribution • Sub mains/LV distribution • Generator set • Lightning and surge protection • High-efficiency LED lighting installation • Emergency lighting installation • General/mechanical/technical power installation • State-of-the-art audio-visual installation • ICT/data installation • WiFi installation • Fire alarm installation • Aspirating system • PA/VA • CCTV • Infrared induction installation • Associated Infrastructure installation

Harvey Group, 14 Glenwell Park, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT36 7RF T: 028 9034 2444 – E: info@harveygroup.co.uk www.harveygroup.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

PAINTING

AGD PAINTING AND DECORATORS SHOWCASE GOOD COLLABORATION AND COORDINATION TO DELIVER IMPRESSIVE PROJECT…

Paint it black (and white)

ainting the Waterfront Exhibition & Conference Centre in Belfast was no mean feat, but AGD Painting & Decorators proved more than up to the task. The firm carried out all of the painting/ decoration works on the iconic project. These which included new and existing walls and ceilings and all woodwork, which was spray lacquered. A mixture of white paint from Crown and Dulux was used. The steelwork on the underside of the metal decks was all blackened out, so AGD used black paint for this. This process had to be carried out over two phases – the first phase had to be complete before M&E ductwork etc was installed, while the second phase had to be tackled after its installation. Gareth Connolly at AGD Painting & Decorators Ltd says that, as the second phase was carried out when the project was nearing completion, extra care was required when working within carpeted and finished floor areas, not an easy task considering the 12m working height. AGD was on site fulltime from October to the end of February. “It was certainly a significant project for

us and easily one of the largest we have worked on,” said Gareth. Main contractor on the project, McLaughlin & Harvey, site-managed the teams and ensured everything fell into place as it should. Good collaboration and co-ordination between all teams on site meant our phased work went off without a hitch,” he added. “A lot of planning between ourselves Jonathan Cole and Robert Andrews on site meant a smooth transition between trades. McLaughlin & Harvey really managed the project in an ideal manner. Obviously they were restricted in terms of handover, so they had to make sure everyone was pulling together, which they did.” Based in Toomebridge, AGD Painting & Decorators Ltd provides a wide range of decorative services including painting and decoration, spray fire painting, decorative spraying, performance/hygiene coatings and wallpapering. No job is too large or too small for the firm to take on, from small domestic contracts to large commercial and industrial projects including new build housing sites, hospitals

and schools. AGD has also worked on some of the largest commercial retail chains in Ireland and the UK, including Tesco, Sainsburys, Marks & Spencer and Primark. “We pride ourselves on ensuring client satisfaction on all projects undertaken, irrespective of size or scale and we assure continued professionalism by undergoing assessment and appraisement on an ongoing basis,” said Gareth. With work up and down the country, current jobs include Foyle College, Foyle Primary & Nursery School for Heron Bros., due to start shortly and not expected to be completed until December 2018. The company is also working on a new national indoor arena project in Abbotstown, Co Dublin. “That will be another large project for us. There seems to be more work on the market at the moment but to be honest, we’ve always been busy. We may have been working more in mainland UK up to a couple of years ago, but now we’re based more at home and focused entirely on projects throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.”

AGD Painting and Decorating, Unit 4a, Shivers Business Park, Antrim. T: 028 7965 9308 E: agdpainters@gmail.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

FLOORING

CECO PRODUCTS DELIVERS LONG-LASTING STYLISH FLOORING SOLUTIONS TO NEW WATERFRONT EXTENSION…

Ceco Products floors the opposition

looring consultancy, Ceco Products, worked with Todd Architects and Belfast City Council to advise on all flooring types and specifications for the new Waterfront extension. After close liaison on the differing requirements for various areas, Ceco supplied 6,000sqm of Milliken Per Contra carpet tiles, 2,000sqm Norament Grano rubber flooring and 1,000sqm of Burlington Kirkby Stone from Cumbria. “Due to the sheer scale of the project, the logistics of supplying on time was a challenge,” said Ceco’s Director, Greg Bell. “The requirements and specifications for flooring were very demanding too, but with our long-established history as a quality flooring supplier we were able to provide an in-depth client advisory service via Todd Architects and come up some stylish, durable flooring options.” As a design led floor and wall product company, Ceco provide solutions for commercial and residential projects. The

team at Ceco were able to call on over 30 years’ experience to bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Waterfront project.

WORLD-CLASS PRODUCTS “We source leading brands from around the world and select the best products for our clients,” said Greg. The Milliken carpet tiles were selected for their ability to withstand the heaviest of foot traffic. Milliken’s manufacturing processes are globally benchmarked for operational excellence, and its carpets are engineered to the highest levels of specification, combining Solution Dyed Nylon (SDN) yarns with state-of-the art tufting technology to create original, statement collections such as Per Contra. The Norament Grano rubber flooring was also selected for its high performance in extremely heavy traffic areas. With hammerblow surface and granule effect, it provides excellent wear abrasion, is

quiet and comfortable underfoot, sound absorbent, and also stain and slip resistant. Burlington Stone is a prestigious manufacturer of British natural stone which has been quarried for over 400 years from the heart of the English Lake District. Architects and designers around the world have long taken advantage of its natural beauty, durability and adaptability to create classic weather-resistant details and surface finishes. A supplier of a unique collection of floor products, wall coverings and bathroom products dedicated to the requirements of architects and interior designers, Ceco Products is involved in some of the most prestigious commercial and residential projects throughout Ireland and the UK. Commenting on the Waterfront project, Greg concluded, “We are very pleased with the overall success of the project and proud that Ceco proved, once again, that we are capable of delivering for our end-users and architects.”

Ceco Products, Carryduff Business Park, Comber Road, Carryduff, BT8 8AN T: 028 9081 7272 - E: info@cecoproducts.com www.cecoproducts.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

PRE-CAST STAIRWELLS

AG RISES TO CHALLENGE OF INTRICATE PLANNING, TIGHT TIMESCALES AND CAREFUL ON-SITE MANAGEMENT…

AG designs, manufactures and installs four major stairwells

cheson & Glover’s (AG’s) specialist precast division was tasked with installing four substantial stairwells in the new £29.5million extension to the Belfast Waterfront Conference Centre. As Contracts’ Manager, Gary Black explained, this was far from a routine job, given a number of complex on-site considerations. “Careful programme planning was critical to the success of this project for us,” said Gary. “We had to work very closely with the main contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey and structural engineers, Doran Consulting to ensure we could design and manufacture our stairwells to synchronise with the erection of the new extension’s steel frame. Our team had to be able to work within a small window timeframe at each stage of the programme to install the stairwells. Our structural engineers had two-three weeks’ design time, after which we had approximately three-four weeks to manufacture and install

the units, which ranged from three tonnes to 11 tonnes in weight.”

HEALTH & SAFETY A PRIORITY Health and Safety was critical for the AG team too, with a number of cranes with the capability of up to 130 tonnes lifting capacity required to move the stairwells which extended to three storeys. “The compressed nature of the site, its proximity to the water and bad ground conditions made health and safety an absolute priority,” said Gary. “These issues had implications for delivery to the location and meant that moving the huge precast structures was an intricate, painstaking process.” Gary, who has overseen dozens of major contracts in his ten years with AG, describes the Waterfront installation as one of his most challenging to date – and not a project every precast company could have delivered successfully.

“The size of the stairwells, some of which were four times the usual standard, was dictated by the huge numbers of people who will be using the new extension,” he explained. “With precast projects of this nature there is zero wriggle room. The span of these stairwells meant there was significantly more design required than normal, and given the way in which foundations can move during the course of construction, with knock-on effects for the structure, they had to be effectively designed as the project was live. The sheer complexity of the project required real design expertise, detailed planning, responsive manufacturing timelines and meticulous on-site installation. “Noise levels were monitored on an ongoing basis and had to adhere to strict limits set by the main contractor. You can imagine how noisy a major construction site can be with power saws, Kangos and jack hammers all in use by different tradesmen.”

Acheson & Glover Precast Ltd, 11 Aghnagar Road, Tullyvannon, Ballygawley, Co Tyrone, BT70 2HW T: 028 8556 8441 - E: precast@acheson-glover.com www.ag.uk.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

BUILDING PRODUCTS SUPPLIER Another prestigious project for JP Corry

P Corry worked closely with the main contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey, to provide insulation, access covers and general building materials for the new Waterfront Conference and Exhibition Centre. Utilising over 200 years’ of experience

and expertise, JP Corry supplied Kingspan Kooltherm insulation and Gatic Parade access covers to meet the project requirements. “We were delighted to be working with McLaughlin & Harvey to find building solutions for such a recognisable landmark in the centre of Belfast. We have a long-

standing relationship with McLaughlin & Harvey supplying quality products and this was one of many prestigious projects we have been involved in” explained Neil McGeown, JP Corry Branch Manager. “I would like to congratulate them on the completion of the extension at the Waterfront and we look forward to working with them in the future” he added. With 15 branches throughout Northern Ireland, JP Corry prides itself on supplying everything from core building essentials right through to the latest product innovations. A strong reputation for high quality products and service has enabled the company to develop successfully into one of Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants.

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

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

ROOFING AND CLADDING Thornton covers new Waterfront extension

hornton Roofing played a key role in the delivery of the latest development at the Waterfront Conference Centre. “Our expert team helped give the Waterfront project exterior a fabulous and distinguished look through the use of our specialist cladding,” explained Managing Director, Stephen Thornton. “The project included work on the main elevation façade, installing Kingspan Benchmark Soffit Cassettes for insulation and installing Brett Martin Marlon Click Polycarbonates and specialist architectural wall panels on other parts of the building. All flashings and capping were manufactured by us at our premises. The project was delivered as per the client’s brief, on time and within budget.”

The scale and complexity of Thornton projects have grown significantly in the past number of years. “Given our experience, expertise and resources, we are now well positioned to take on large scale construction, roofing and cladding projects throughout the UK and Ireland,” continued Stephen. “As preferred fitters for Kingspan, Rigidal and Tegral, we have the relationships and back-up needed to ensure we can deliver.” As part of expansion plans to invest £8million over the next five years and add 50 new jobs, Thornton is actively targeting specialist construction, roofing and cladding work in Britain – like a £2million scheme the company is currently completing at Ayrshire College, Scotland.

Thornton Roofing (Ireland) Ltd, 43 Gallagh Rd, Toomebridge BT41 3NZ T: 028 7965 0368 – E: info@thorntonroofing.co.uk www.thorntonroofing.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

WALL CLADDING

Top performance from Alphaclad

lphaclad supplied and fitted Altro Whiterock hygienic wall cladding to the main kitchen, food preparation room and ancillary kitchens at the new Waterfront extension. “It was a big job,” said Alphaclad Director, Sean Duffy. “It was good to be working with McLaughlin & Harvey again – it was a very well-co-ordinated site and a fast track programme. Thanks to great teamwork with McLaughlin & Harvey it all went extremely well and we look forward to working with them again in the future.” Altro Whiterock hygienic cladding system is not just a 2.5mm-thick PVCu sheet. It’s a complete system of compatible wall cladding and doorsets, also designed to be compatible with Altro safety flooring.

It incorporates stabilisers for excellent UV stability and won’t discolour over time. Careful detailing minimises the effects at joints and eliminates bacteria traps. All the products contain an integral Altrosan Biocide 20-year product warranty. “Thanks to the high quality of Altro Whiterock, it was the perfect system to use for the high spec requirements of the Waterfront,” said Sean. No stranger to working with high-profile clients, Alphaclad has carried out a number of fit-out jobs for multi-national companies such as Marks & Spencer and Tesco, and is currently working on projects at Altnagelvin Area Hospital and the new Omagh Local Enhanced Hospital.

Alphaclad (NI) Ltd, 4 Kilglen Drive Meigh, Meigh, Newry, Co Down, BT35 8JW T: 028 3084 8602 - M: 07549 538 407 - E: sean@alphaclad.com www.alphaclad.co.uk

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

M&E CONSULTING

Creative design solutions from WYG

he complexities of the new Waterfront extension meant that the required M&E services played a crucial role in the success of the project. To this end, the expertise of global management and technical consultancy, WYG was called into play, with the company’s Belfast office providing a top class service. “We were appointed M&E consulting engineers for Harvey Group, and our job was to develop the exemplar design of this NEC project,” said WYG Associate Mechanical Engineer, Enda Hamill. “From an engineering services point of view, the Waterfront was a very complex, complicated building to work on, due to

the amount of services needed and the fact that there was very little void space. “In order to take the concept and develop it into a working design we worked closely with architects and structural engineers to maximise the space and distribute services. There were a lot of restrictions, and the experience of our team was integral to meeting the unique challenges of this complex building.” With a team of skilled and knowledgeable specialists, WYG provides bespoke solutions, engaging with clients in the early stages of a project, and often continuing to advise them throughout its lifecycle.

WYG, 1 Locksley Business Park, Montgomery Road, Belfast, BT6 9UP T: 028 9070 6000 – E: belfast@wyg.com www.wyg.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

WATERFRONT EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, BELFAST

BUILDING MATERIALS Quality supply from Murdock’s

urdock Builder’s Merchants supplied an extensive range of building materials to main contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey for the Waterfront project. These included high-strength ACO MultiDrain system products to accommodate the drainage specification for the external paving, and insulation from Kingspan, a market leading manufacturer of premium and highperformance rigid insulation products and insulated systems for building fabric and building services applications. “We also supplied timbers and plywoods, as well as a range of other items,” said Gary Ryan, Branch Manager at Murdock’s Kennedy Way outlet in

Belfast, which provided the products. “It was a sizable contract and we were very pleased to be involved in such a prestigious project in Belfast. We have a great working relationship with McLaughlin & Harvey and have recently completed work with them at the University of Ulster Belfast Campus project at York Street in Belfast. We are also currently working with them on the new Omagh Enhanced Local Hospital.”

“It was a sizable contract and we were very pleased to be involved in such a prestigious project in Belfast.”

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Kennedy Way Industrial Estate, 11 Kennedy Way, Blackstaff Way, Belfast, BT11 9DT T: 028 9060 5855 - E: belfast@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

• Commercial • Architecture • PR COMPETITIVE RATES m: 07841 193866 e: gordon@kmpltd.co.uk

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AWARDS

WINNER - PROJECT OF THE YEAR

The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute, Belfast

Fiona Grant, RICS UK and Ireland Chair, congratulates Project of the Year, the Wellcome Wolfson Institute, representatives, John Nugent (left) of Queen’s University Belfast, and Colm Lavery (far right) of Turner & Townsend. The winning team was also joined by RICS Wellcome-Wolfson NI Chairman, Andy Tough.

Project Team... SURVEYOR

Turner & Townsend Arthur House, 41 Arthur Street, Belfast, BT1 4GB T: 028 9044 6997 www.turnerandtownsend.com

ARCHITECT Ostick + Williams 14 Edgewater Rd, Belfast, BT3 9LA T: 028 9077 8810 www.ostickandwilliams.com

CONTRACTOR

O’Hare & McGovern Carnbane House, Shepherds Way, Carnbane Industrial Est., Newry, BT35 6EE T: 028 3026 4662 www.ohmg.com

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INNOVATION CENTRE EMERGES AS WORTHY WINNER, NAMED BUILDING PROJECT OF THE YEAR IN A COMPETITIVE YEAR FOR THE RICS AWARDS IN NORTHERN IRELAND…

Queen’s University innovation centre wins top RICS Award

Queen’s University research facility has been named Project of the Year at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards 2016, Northern Ireland. The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, situated in the grounds of Belfast City Hospital, also won the Design Through Innovation award before being crowned Project of the Year at the annual awards which showcase and reward projects from across Northern Ireland. The £32million institute is the latest phase in the configuration of the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, and has

been designed to enhance its internationally recognised excellence in education and research. The 9,000m2 building provides accommodation for some 330 members of staff specialising in research into finding cures for eye diseases and diabetes, and the development of a global programme to aid understanding of the genetics of complex chronic diseases. Alan Stitt, Director of the Centre for Experimental Medicine commented, “The open and free-flow design of the building offers a positive change in the working environment, which enhances the development of cross-disciplinary

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AWARDS

The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine.

Winners... PROJECT OF THE YEAR The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Belfast

BUILDING CONSERVATION WINNER Mount Stewart, Newtownards HIGHLY COMMENDED The Graduate Building, Queen’s University, Belfast

COMMERCIAL WINNER City Quays 1, Belfast HIGHLY COMMENDED Development at 19-21 Broad Street, Magherafelt

COMMUNITY BENEFIT WINNER SPACE (Shared Process and Community Engagement) People’s Park, Portadown HIGHLY COMMENDED SERC Performing Arts, Computing and Engineering Campus, Bangor collaborations and interactions between peer research groups.” The project’s design team consisted of Ostick & Williams, in association with Stantec architects; Turner & Townsend cost management surveyor; Albert Fry Associates as the structural and civil consultant; services and BREEAM consultant, White Young Green; O’Hare & McGovern as the main contractor; and Harvey Group as the MEP contractor. The judges said, “This is a high-quality construction housing laboratories, offices and meeting rooms for this international research organisation. Innovatively, the building has been designed on an ‘insideout’ basis which is conducive to collaborative working. The project is finished to a very high standard and the achievement of a BREEAM Excellent certification is laudable.” The RICS Awards are made up of eight categories from Building Conservation to Tourism & Leisure and Infrastructure, and some of the country’s most popular new builds and recent restorations were in the spotlight at a ceremony in La Mon Hotel and Country Club, Belfast, on May 6. Ben Collins, RICS Director, Northern Ireland, said, “The positive impact that innovative buildings, regenerated shared spaces and

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world-class tourist facilities have on the local economy and society cannot be overstated. Once again, we have seen some of the best new builds, infrastructure projects, community schemes, and restoration initiatives from the last few years take the spotlight at our annual awards, and we are delighted to be able to highlight the exceptional work of the surveyors and other property professionals behind the projects.” RICS Awards Judging Chairman, Alistair Dunn, added, “This was a competitive year for the RICS Awards in Northern Ireland. Our judges were blown away by the standard of the entries which ranged from stately homes to family homes, cross-community projects and buildings that are making a difference in education, medicine and culture. “The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute is a worthy winner for its breakthrough in innovation, helping emphasise Northern Ireland’s credentials as a hub for critical medical research.” The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute and the other winners from the evening will now progress as finalists from the Northern Ireland region at the national RICS Awards gala evening in London later in the year. Further information about the awards is available at www.rics.org/awards

DESIGN THROUGH INNOVATION WINNER The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Belfast HIGHLY COMMENDED Grillagh Water House, Maghera

INFRASTRUCTURE WINNER Lagan Weir Footbridge, Belfast HIGHLY COMMENDED RNLI Life Boat Station, Carrybridge, Enniskillen

REGENERATION WINNER SPACE (Shared Process and Community Engagement) People’s Park, Portadown HIGHLY COMMENDED Refurbishment of Seaview Hall, Glenarm

RESIDENTIAL WINNER Blacksmith’s Cottage, Portrush HIGHLY COMMENDED Lime Court, Peter’s Hill, Belfast

TOURISM & LEISURE WINNER Galgorm Resort & Spa, Ballymena HIGHLY COMMENDED Schomberg House, Belfast

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AWARDS

WINNER - Building Conservation

Mount Stewart, Newtownards

Magnificent win for Mount Stewart

he beautiful restoration of the National Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 18th Century Mount Stewart House was a clear winner in the Building Conservation category. Calculated design ingenuity was employed on this project to carry out vital conservation works such as repairing serious structural defects throughout the property. Having housed the World War Two War Cabinet and welcomed Royalty to stay, the popular tourist attraction

has major historical relevance, so the project team had to focus on the use of the least intrusive measures to minimise the disturbance to historic features and finishes. As part of the process to protect the various artefacts in the building, a temporary wooden structure was built within the chapel, complete with temperature controls and an alarm system. In addition to this, the central hall was divided in two during the work, with a dust screen created to separate the balcony area from the ground floor area. This created two sealed environments, which allowed one area to remain open while work was carried out in the other. This was reflective of the entire project, with the building effectively divided into zones, and work moving from one room to the next within each zone. This process enabled the artefacts to remain on site and allowed the National Gary McCausland with Doireann Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Doherty and David McGrath of H&J Martin are presented with the Building Conservation Trust to introduce conservation Award by Andy Tough. workshops for visitors.

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Project Team... ARCHITECT Elphick Design T: 01665 576 726 E: richard@elphick.me.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

H&J Martin Construction & Fit Out 163 Ormeau Road Belfast BT7 1SP T: 028 90 232 622 www.laganconstructiongroup.com

"Having housed the World War Two War Cabinet and welcomed Royalty to stay, the popular tourist attraction has major historical relevance."

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AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Building Conservation

The Graduate Building, Queen’s University

Class act at Queen’s University

he stunning transformation of the Lynn Building at Queen’s University, Belfast, into the new Graduate Building impressed the judges in the Building Conservation category, winning a Highly Commended Award. The iconic, two-storey, Grade B Listed building and former library had been vacant since 2009 before it was then transformed into a new Graduate School offering teaching, group study, social space and support accommodation. The ground floor houses reception and administrative support space, training

facilities, meeting rooms, and social spaces. The building’s first floor features a central open-plan, double-height, vaulted space with masonry gothic arches and aisles to each side. This is an impressive internal space with a Study Room at one end. It is separated from a central social/circulation space, and a range of smaller teaching and study rooms by a full height structural glass wall filling a central vault. The refurbishment respects the importance and quality of the building and its position at the ‘front door’ of the university while additionally providing internal cohesion between the original 1868 building, 1913 extension and various additions and alterations from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Impressive aspects of the project include the ‘invisible mend’ that replaced an external glazed walkway between the Lynn Building and the former Library Tower; the restoration of the beautiful masonry gothic arches; and the marriage of the traditional architecture of Gary McCausland with Roisin Donnelly from Consarc and Andrew Corbett from Queen’s Estate being presented with the Highly this stunning building with modern Commended Building Conservation Award by Andy Tough. educational requirements.

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Project Team... SURVEYOR Hood McGowan Kirk Boucher Centre, Boucher Road, Belfast, BT12 6HR T: 028 9066 7932 www.hmkni.com

ARCHITECT Consarc Conservation The Gas Office, 4 Cormac Quay, Ormeau Road, Belfast, BT7 2JD T: 028 9082 8400 www.consarc-design.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

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

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AWARDS

WINNER - Commercial

City Quays 1, Belfast

Grade A success for City Quays

ccupying a prime waterfront island location, City Quays 1 sets a new precedent in Grade A office design with the aim of attracting global operators and foreign investors to Belfast – and it also attracted the praise of the RICS NI judges! Completed in April 2015, this landmark building greatly enhances the docklands area, whilst addressing connectivity to the Clarendon Dock, city quays and the city centre. City Quays is Belfast’s £250million

Gary McCausland with Graeme Johnston, Belfast Harbour Commissioners, and Harry McConnell, RPP Architects, are presented with the Commercial Award by John Sheridan from Sika.

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Project Team...

designated mixed-use regeneration project, providing commercial offices, shops, cafes, restaurants, hotel space and residential accommodation. City Quays 1 (CQ1) – a £10million, 83,000sqft building - has become the focal point of the overall development. It is one of Northern Ireland’s largest office developments since the property crash of 2007 and, as a result, the pressure was on the project team to complete the project as quickly and efficiently as possible. The announcement during the early stages of the project that Baker & McKenzie – the world’s largest law firm – was a confirmed tenant for two floors of the flagship facility only added to the pressure. Aside from Baker & McKenzie, the project team didn’t know who the tenants of CQ1 would be, so flexibility was central to the overall design. This was achieved by creating a columnfree design to provide a clean slate on every floor that could then be tailored to meet the specific needs of the tenant.

SURVEYOR

WH Stephens Unit 4a Locksley Business Park, 39 Montgomery Road, Belfast, BT6 9UP T: 028 9066 3123 www.whstephens.com

ARCHITECT

RPP Architects Ltd 155/157 Donegall Pass, Belfast, BT7 1DT T: 028 9024 5777 www.rpparchitects.co.uk

CONTRACTOR

Heron Bros Ltd 2 St Patrick’s Street, Draperstown, BT45 7AL T: 028 796 28505 www.heronbros.com

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AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Commercial

Development at

19-21 Broad Street, Magherafelt

New development helps regenerate area

road Street development comprises a mixed used development of two retail units and eight apartments in Magherafelt. The development has revitalised and regenerated the street, not only in economic but also social terms, enabling Broad Street to become the retail hub for higher-end ladies clothing shops as well as delivering much needed housing provision. The challenges of this site and location

informed the design; the site was 13m wide (street frontage) and 36m deep, flanked on one side by a neighbouring building and, to the other, a pedestrian access link between the main shopping street and the council car park behind. This led to a plan form with two retail units to the main street with ancillary accommodation, leading to the rear, which contains bin stores, access and accommodated service, and escape stairs to the apartments above. The plan form on the first and second floors was u-shaped to accommodate amenity space, allow light to penetrate and to enable denser development. The end result is a contemporary take on local vernacular, utilising a brownfield site in a more sustainable manner. The streetscape has been improved significantly, residential need has been addressed, less vandalism Gary McCausland and Johann Muldoon, Manor Architects, are occurs and it has without question presented with the Highly Commended Commercial Award by John Sheridan from Sika regenerated the area.

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Project Team... SURVEYOR AD Surveyors King Sreet, Magherafelt BT45 6AR T: 028 7963 4734 www.adgroup.co.uk

ARCHITECT

Manor Architects High Sreet, Moneymore BT45 7PD T: 028 8674 8367 www.manorarchitects.com

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

EC Construction Ltd Shore Road, Ballyronan, Magherafelt BT45 6LS T: 07960 969738 www.ec-construction.com

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AWARDS

WINNER - Community Benefit and Regeneration

SPACE, People’s Park, Portadown

Gary McCausland, Jenny Muir (RICS Awards judge) with Alderman Kenneth Twyble, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council; Michael Ruddy, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council and Andrew Haley, Paul Hogarth Company.

A win against the odds for SPACE

espite widespread opposition from politicians and community leaders, the regeneration of the People’s Park in Portadown has belied the critics to create an imaginative space that is bringing the local community together. SPACE (Shared Process and Community Engagement) is a 40-acre area originally donated to the town in the 19th Century as a public park. In the 1970s it became a notorious ‘no-man’s-land’ sectarian interface and was regarded as toxic and dangerous

by both sides in the conflict. That opposition continued when the plans were released by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council but the perseverance of officials has finally paid off. SPACE is an excellent example of good urban design and provides a safe recreational space for all sections of the population, something which was inconceivable as recently as 18-months ago. It has also proved popular, with visitor numbers greatly exceeding the most optimistic projections, averaging over 29,000 per month. The regeneration of the park has already stimulated new development in the adjoining streets which were previously regarded as a dangerous flashpoint area to be avoided at all costs. The initial opposition and scepticism is now dissipating in the face of Alistair Dunn, RICS Northern Ireland Judging Chairman, presents Gary public acceptance and the McCausland, Andrew Haley, Paul Hogarth Company; and Alderman Kenneth obvious popularity of the Twyble, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council, with the Community Benefit Award. new facilities.

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Project Team... SURVEYOR Edmond Shipway Clarke Shipway, Portview House, 80 Dargan Road, Belfast, BT3 9JU T: 028 9077 9392 www.edmondshipway.com

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

The Paul Hogarth Company Potters Quay, 5 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8DN T: 028 9073 6690 www.paulhogarth.com

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

Fox Contracts 250 Drumnakilly Road, Carrickmore, Omagh, BT799PU T: 028 8076 1944 www. fox-contracts.com

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AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Community Benefit

SPACE Campus, SERC, Bangor

Successful mission to SPACE

emoving a car park in an already congested area doesn’t usually register as being of any benefit to the local community, but the way in which the complex challenges of the SPACE campus were met by the project team has suitably impressed the RICS NI judges. The new £12million School for Performing Arts, Computing and Engineering (SPACE) campus in Bangor is built on a former car park, with the project team redesigning one nearby to make way for the futuristic building. Located at Castle Park Road, the 3,650m²

facility, funded by the Department for Employment and Learning, provides high specification, bespoke accommodation for students. The heart of the Performing Arts Centre is the theatre, around which rehearsal and production studios are located. The theatre has all the attributes of a professional auditorium and, in addition to being suitable for staging professional productions, it provides first-class rehearsal, recording and performance facilities for students. The Technology Innovation Centre provides a business quality learning environment that further enhances the College’s existing capacity for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology and Engineering sciences. The focus of the Technology Centre will be on employability skills; stimulating enterprise through business incubation; delivery of innovative business development programmes; and fostering Alistair Dunn, RICS Northern Ireland Judging Chairman, pictured enhanced approaches to economic with Gary McCausland, Thompson Keating from SERC and Mark Haslett, Hamilton Architects, who received the Highly development, working closely with Commended Community Benefit Award. community partners.

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Project Team... SURVEYOR Edmond Shipway Clarke Shipway, Portview House, 80 Dargan Road, Belfast, BT3 9JU T: -28 9077 9392 www.edmondshipway.com

ARCHITECT

Hamilton Architects 3 Joy Street, Belfast, BT2 8LE T: 028 9033 4250 www.hamiltonarchitects.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

O’Hare & McGovern Carnbane House, Shepherds Way, Carnbane Industrial Estate, Newry T: 028 3026 4662 www.ohmg.com

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AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Design Through Innovation

Grillagh Water House, Maghera

Grand Designs house showcases innovation

luxury home made from four shipping containers that featured on Channel 4â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grand Designs has been Highly Commended in the Design Through Design category. The ambitious home by architect Patrick Bradley has already scooped a number of awards and it was only beaten to the top prize this time around by the Wellcome Wolfson Institute of Experimental Medicine, which was also named as Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Project of the Year. Having originally designed a house that employed conventional construction

methods, Patrick realised that he needed to reduce costs to meet his budget, and instead came up with an alternative solution. Using four 45ft steel shipping containers, the house has been built by stacking them twohigh in the form of a cantilevered cross. Two of the metal boxes extend from the entrance at the end of a gravel lane and they both sit on top of the other pair of containers, which nestle in a perpendicular orientation in the lee of a gentle slope. The upper level cantilevers over the lower storey, culminating in a balcony surrounded by steel fins that protect the interior from unwanted solar gain. The stacked formation of the metal boxes also creates space on top of the lower portion for a terrace, surrounded by a glass balustrade and connected to the garden below by a minimal, metal staircase. The unique design has not only won a number of awards but, thanks to the popularity of Grand Designs, it has also led to requests from all Gary McCausland and Patrick Bradley are presented with the Highly Commended Design Through Innovation Award by Paul over the world for Patrick to design Carney, Forbo. houses in dozens of countries.

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Project Team... ARCHITECT Patrick Bradley Architects 30 Gortinure Road, Maghera, BT46 5PA T: 028 7940 1814 www.pb-architects.com

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

Thornton Roofing Ltd 43a Gallagh Road, Toomebridge, BT41 3QU T: 028 7965 0368 www.thorntonroofing.com

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AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Regeneration

Seaview Hall, Glenarm

Regeneration of 127-year-old school impresses the judges

Project Team...

R Davis & Co CHARTERED QUANTITY SURVEYORS 9 Donegall Street Place, Belfast T: 028 9043 8233

he extensive refurbishment of a 127-year-old primary school into a thriving visitor attraction and tourist activity centre has been Highly Commended in the Regeneration category at the RICS NI Awards. The once derelict Seaview Hall has been the subject of a long campaign to see the former primary school on the Coast Road brought back to life, with the Glenarm Buildings Preservation Trust (GBPT) spearheading the regeneration scheme.

Many of the architectural features of the original school, which was built in 1888, have now been restored including the pitched natural slate roofs, the Antrim Basalt facade on the front elevation and the distinctive gothic lead lattice window with its engraved sandstone. As well as respecting the past, Seaview Hall also includes purpose-built facilities to service private and voluntary sectors. The building now houses a new Visitor Information Centre, while also providing a new base for long-established Glenarm business, Steensons Jewellery Workshop. The lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s share of funding (ÂŁ265,000) for the project came from the UK-wide Coastal Communities Fund, with a number of other groups and organisations providing financial support, including the former Larne Borough Council, Tourism NI, Ulster Garden Villages, Gary McCausland, Jenny Muir (RICS Awards judge) with John the Garfield Weston Foundation, Anderson, Glenarm Buildings Preservation Trust and Paul Millar, Kriterion Architects. and the Architectural Heritage Fund.

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SURVEYOR

info@rdavisandco.com

ARCHITECT

Kriterion Conservation 3 Joy Street, Belfast, BT2 8LE T: 028 9033 4250 www.kriterion.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

Derryleckagh Contracts Ltd 11 Carrick Close, Burren, Newry, BT34 3AT T: 028 4134 0009 www.dclni.co.uk

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AWARDS

WINNER - Infrastructure

Lagan Weir Footbridge, Belfast

Lagan Weir Footbridge triumphs

he new Lagan Weir Footbridge is a brilliant example of the changing face of Belfast, providing a link from the historic Cathedral Quarter to the new ambitious waterfront development area. Designed around the principle of elegant simplicity, the Lagan Weir Footbridge, which connects Donegall Quay and Queen’s Quay, provides safe and sustainable access into Belfast for cyclists as well as pedestrians. Contributing to the ongoing transformation of the city, it replaces a 2m-wide footbridge

that was too narrow to accommodate rising numbers. Now the new 120m-long bridge connects Belfast’s centre to Titanic Quarter, Europe’s largest urban waterfront regeneration project, providing a place to linger and take in stunning views of the weir and of the city. The new bridge, which is approximately eight metres across at its widest point, was completed in time for the Tall Ships 2015 event. With the continuing development of the City Quays project – which also won a RICS NI Award – and the recent opening of the Waterfront Conference and Exhibition Centre, this new bridge will continue to play an important role. In addition, the Lagan Weir Footbridge is seen as an essential aspect of the Queen’s Quay Masterplan, which sets out an exciting vision of the development potential of this area, as it will improve the links between the city Gary McCausland, Trevor Leaker and Julian Netherton from AECOM with RICS Director, Ben Collins, celebrate their success in centre and Queen’s Quay, as well as winning the Infrastructure category. the Titanic Quarter.

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Project Team... SURVEYOR AECOM 9th Floor, The Clarence West Building, 2 Clarence Street, Belfast, BT2 7GP T: 028 9060 7200 www.aecom.com

ARCHITECT AECOM Beechill House, Beechill Road, Belfast, BT8 7RP T: 028 9060 7200 www.aecom.com

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

GRAHAM Construction Ballygowan Road, Hillsborough, Co Down, BT26 6HX T: 028 9268 9500 www.graham.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Infrastructure

RNLI Lifeboat Station, Enniskillen

Commendation for lifeboat station

Project Team... SURVEYOR

he team behind the RNLI’s first permanent inland lifeboat station has been recognised by the RICS NI judges with a Highly Commended Award in the Infrastructure category. After 13 years using temporary accommodation, volunteers are now beneftting from the new lifeboat station at Carrybridge on Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. These new facilities will help them react quickly to alerts on the lough while also giving them new space in which to train in. The modern, purpose-built lifeboat station is located close to the lough

to allow for an efficient launch of its inshore lifeboat and rescue water craft. The station also houses the associated launching tractor and equipment, full crew changing facilities, a workshop, office and training room. The building is also highly energy-efficient, with a ground-source heat pump and PV solar panels incorporated into the design. In order to facilitate the project, the local community helped the charity raise £60,000 towards the cost which will now help the RNLI’s 40 volunteers based at Enniskillen to continue to save lives on Lough Erne.

“After 13 years using temporary accommodation,

Sweett Group Pembridge House, 240 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AW T: 028 9076 5959 www.swettgroup.co.uk

ARCHITECT

Todd Architects 2nd Floor, Titanic House, 6 Queens Road, Belfast, BT3 9DT T: 028 9024 5587 www.toddarch.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

volunteers are now benefitting from the new lifeboat station at Carrybridge on Upper Lough Erne Cap

in County Fermanagh.” www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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

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AWARDS

WINNER - Residential

Blacksmith’s Cottage, Portrush

Portrush home forges success

ith stunning views set inside an Area of Outstanding Beauty, Blacksmith’s Cottage was always going to be hard to beat in the Residential category at this year’s RICS NI Awards. As one of two projects on the shortlist to also have been featured on Channel 4’s popular Grand Designs show (Grillagh Water House, Maghera, was Highly Commended in the Design Through Innovation category), Blacksmith’s Cottage is more than a straightforward family home. The 100-year-old blacksmith’s forge was rescued and transformed into a modern,

Project Team...

sustainable and super-insulated straw bale and timber frame extension nestled into its existing terrain, opening up to spectacular uninterrupted panoramic views from Scotland through to Donegal. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the building takes its cues in both form and materials from the agricultural heritage of its surroundings in order to overcome the difficult first hurdle of gaining planning permission. The old forge building was restored and an impressive extension added that includes double-height spaces and floor to ceiling windows. The home has also been future-proofed by building it close to passive house standards, which included the use of 300 straw bales for insulation. Designed by Michael Howe, the home-owner and partner in 2020 Architects in Ballymoney, the spectacular building is now the family home for Michael, his wife Winners of the Residential category, Gary McCausland and Michele, and children, Rudi and Michael Howe from 2020 Architects with Gary Barr, Ulster Bank. Anna.

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ARCHITECT

2020 Architects 37 Main Street Ballymoney, BT53 6AN T: 028 276 67999 www.2020architects.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

McFall Construction T: Mark McFall on 07548114637 E: mcfallm9@gmail.com

“Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the building takes its cues in both form and materials from the agricultural heritage of its surroundings.”

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AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Residential

Lime Court, Peter’s Hill, Belfast

Another award for Lime Court

ime Court at Peter’s Hill in Belfast continues to impress awards judges, with the Highly Commended success in the Residential category of the RICS NI Awards adding to the Social Housing Award the project won at last year’s Construction Excellence Awards. A supported-living scheme in Belfast, Lime Court at Peter’s Hill comprises 13 supported-needs apartments along with associated communal areas and staff facilities, all of which were built alongside existing accommodation. The project was one of the first completed

for Choice, Northern Ireland’s largest housing association that was formed by the merger between OakleeTrinity and Ulidia Housing Associations. The traditional brick and block, cavity wall construction also included associated engineering services and external site development works. The scheme met Secured By Design accreditation, Lifetime Homes and Code for Sustainable Homes Level 3 standards. All this was achieved without affecting staff or residents in the existing units on site. In addition to the success at the Construction Excellence Awards and the RICS NI Awards, main contractor on this project, Donaghmore Construction, was a shortlisted finalist in the ‘Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award’. This recognises the distinguished collaborative working approach undertaken on Peter’s Hill by the client, Gary McCausland, Heather Burton, Donaghmore Construction, and Martin McKernan, McKernan Architects, are presented with the Highly design team and the Commended Residential Award presented by Gary Barr, Ulster Bank. contractor.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Project Team... SURVEYOR Crawford Dugan Partnership 15 Wilsons Court, Belfast, BT1 4DQ T: 028 9029 3025

ARCHITECT Martin McKernan Carlisle Memorial Centre, 88 Clifton Street, Belfast, BT131AB T: 028 9080 7426 www.mckernanarchitects.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

Donaghmore Construction Ltd 7 Dungannon Road, Coalisland, BT71 4HP T: 028 8774 6235 www.donaghmoreconstruction.com

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 73

AWARDS

WINNER - Tourism & Leisure

Galgorm Resort & Spa

Gerry Hand, from Douglas Wallace, Neil McClintock from McClintock Consulting, Gary McCausland (host), David Hamilton from Martin & Hamilton with the Tourism & Leisure Award presented by Lynn Robinson, RICS Director - South and West England.

Stress-free extension project at Galgorm Resort & Spa

n ÂŁ8million upgrade at Galgorm Resort & Spa has won the Tourism & Leisure 2016 RICS Award. The project as a whole complements the already outstanding guest facilities and, as it is unique, will continue to help Northern Ireland attract more out-ofstate visitors and ultimately reinforce the message that the Northern Ireland tourist industry is now competing on a global scale. The 18-month project, both technically and logistically challenging, involved the construction of a four-storey extension to the hotel along with a new indoor swimming pool, associated spa facilities and outdoor thermal spa village - the first of its kind in the UK and Ireland. This major undertaking by Ballymena construction company, Martin & Hamilton, was completed while the hotel remained fully operational, with minimal disturbance to the guests and staff. Clear communication and leadership

74 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

from the team at Martin & Hamilton helped contribute to the success. JBE Mechanical Electrical was appointed early in the project as integrated ISO 9001, GasSafe and NIEIC accredited M&E sub-contractor. Martin & Hamilton liaised closely with JBE right from the start and worked collaboratively throughout to ensure all the new equipment was tested and commissioned as early as possible. A key challenge was the integration of new building services with the existing hotel whilst ensuring no impact on the end-user. As the project involved high specification M&E requirements, Martin & Hamilton introduced sub-contractor specific programmes for these two trades which helped identify the key milestones and ensure a successful outcome. The project was completed on time, within budget and with zero defects. All sustainability targets including health and safety objectives were achieved.

Project Team... SURVEYOR McClintock Consulting Scottish Provident Building, 7 Donegall Square West, Belfast, BT1 6JH T: 028 9091 8415/07596 474139 W: Currently under construction

ARCHITECT Douglas Wallace 1 Grantham St, Dublin Southside, Dublin 8 T: 00353 1 4787 500 W: www.douglaswallace.com

CONTRACTOR

Martin & Hamilton 46 Doury Road, Ballymena, BT43 6JB T: 028 2565 3672 W: www.martinandhamilton.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

AWARDS

HIGHLY COMMENDED - Tourism & Leisure

Schomberg House, Belfast

Victory parade for Schomberg House

he opening of the Museum of Orange Heritage at Schomberg House in Belfast has proved a success in more ways than one. The challenging design and build process involved in the refurbishment and redevelopment of the building situated along the busy Cregagh Road has been rewarded with a Highly Commended award in the Tourism & Leisure category. The effort has also been rewarded with over 5,000 people having visited the cultural

museum. Visitors not only come from across the UK and Ireland but also the rest of the world. The project comprised the refurbishment and extension of the current premises at Schomberg House to create a fully accessible Interpretative Museum and new headquarters for the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland. The building now houses a permanent museum exhibition, a temporary exhibition area, lecture theatre, boardroom, humidity and temperature controlled archives, library and a cafĂŠ. The exhibition areas feature AV presentations and interactive exhibits, while the building also includes offices, staff welfare facilities and a formal reception area. The work was carried out against strict deadlines set by funding body EACH/EUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peace III Programme and, as with many refurbishment projects, required the redesign Gary McCausland, Andy Greer and Moya Fitzpatrick from TAL, with the Tourism & Leisure Award, presented by Lynn Robinson, of various elements as the work RICS Director, South and West England. progressed.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Project Team... SURVEYOR Johnston Houston 2-12 Montgomery Street, Belfast, BT1 4NX www.johnstonhouston.com

ARCHITECT

RPP Architects 155/157 Donegall Pass, Belfast, BT7 1DT T: 028 9024 5777 www.rpparchitects.co.uk

DEVELOPER/CONTRACTOR

TAL Limited TAL House, Lissue Industrial Estate East, Unit 1, 9 Lissue Walk, Lisburn, BT28 2LU T: 028 9262 2345 www.tal.ltd.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 75

INSULATION

KINGSPAN INSULATION’S NEW K106 CAVITY WALL SOLUTION MEET PASSIVE STANDARDS AND PROVIDES A LOWER LAMBDA RANGE…

A New Dawn for Passive Standards

ith pressure mounting to be building nearly zero-energy buildings within the next few years, Kingspan Insulation is proud to announce the latest development in ultralow lambda products to help meet those targets, without having to increase cavity wall sizes. Kingspan Insulatiaon has launched a new cavity wall board, Kingspan Kooltherm K106. With a thermal conductivity of 0.018 W/m.K it is part of Kingspan’s new low lambda range. The new cavity board makes meeting passive standards much easier, providing a level of performance that is unrivalled in the world of rigid thermoset insulation materials. Apart from the fact that low U-values can be achieved with a thinner product, a specially developed facing also allows Kooltherm K106 Cavity Board to be installed with a mere 10mm air gap, instead of the 50mm that is required in a standard partial fill cavity wall construction. The water-tight, vapour-open polypropylene fleece outer facing protects against moisture penetration, whilst the lower lambda phenolic core allows a U-value of 0.17 W/m2.K to be achieved with an overall cavity of just 100mm in a standard masonry construction. All of this means that you can now meet, or exceed, building envelope requirements, without losing out on living space, or moving away from preferred cavity sizes. Kooltherm K106 Cavity Board is BBA

“The water-tight, vapour-open polypropylene fleece outer facing protects against moisture penetration.” certified, and features Kingspan’s market leading, fibre-free, rigid thermoset phenolic insulation core. Manufactured with a blowing agent that has zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and very low Global Warming Potential (GWP), the insulation boards are non-deleterious, easy to handle and install, and are unaffected by air infiltration. Kooltherm K106 Cavity Board is the latest product from Kingspan Insulation, a division of Kingspan Group plc, one of Europe’s fastest growing building materials manufacturers. Kingspan Group was formed in the late 1960s and is a publicly quoted group of companies with its headquarters in Kingscourt, County Cavan, Ireland. Kingspan Insulation is consequently able to draw on the many resources and support of a focused, innovative group. Kingspan Group has manufacturing, distribution and commercial operations throughout Europe, North America, Australasia and other locations across the globe.

Kingspan Insulation Ltd, Bree Industrial Estate, Castleblayney, County Monaghan, Ireland T: 00353 42 979 5000 – F: 00353 42 975 4237 – E: info@kingspaninsulation.ie www.kingspaninsulation.ie

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

EVENTS

Paddy Rooney, Vincent Small, Gary McGovern and Andy McGivern enjoy the MBM and ACO golf day at Farnham Estate.

Ryan Carnduff and Stevie Darragh enjoy the sunshine at Farnham.

Martin Lawther and Andrew Russell of Gilbert Ash.

Glen Fulton, Trevor Weir, Colm O’Prey (longest drive winner) and John Cunningham.

Aidy McAteer holes a monster put on the 6th.

MURDOCK AND ACO host golf day at Farnham Estate

Phelim Convery, Seamus McNally, Raymond Scott (overall winner) and Paul McGread.

ustomers from across Northern Ireland recently enjoyed the annual Murdock Builder’s Merchant Golf Day, this year in conjunction with ACO, at Farnham Estate Golf & Spa Resort in County Cavan. A total of 40 players took part, including customers, staff and ACO representatives with Raymond Scott of Woodvale Construction the eventual winner with a score of 39 points. The golf was followed by an evening meal, presentation of prizes and plenty of ‘craic’ in the beautiful Farnham Estate Hotel restaurant.

Dessie the first to clock up 30 years

Mickey Conroy, Aidan Lloyd, Aidan McLaughlin and Aidy McAteer.

Ciaran Sweeney and Raymond Harkin of Murdock’s enjoying their round.

Johnny Connolly and nearest the pin winner Eddie O’Hare of O’Hare and McGovern.

Dessie McDonnell (left) pictured with Manager, Paul Shepard, marks his 30th year of unbroken service to Murdock Builder’s Merchants Group. Dessie becomes the first member of staff to achieve this tremendous milestone, which will be marked by the company’s Board of Directors later in the year alongside other employees who have reached significant long-service milestones in 2016.

Murdock Builder’s Merchants, Greenbank Industrial Estate, Newry, BT34 2QU T: 028 3025 0634 W: www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Roofing, Cladding & Faรงades REACH NEW HEIGHTS AND FIND OUT ABOUT THE LATEST FINISHES WITH OUR GUIDETO THIS SPECIALIST SECTOR...

SLATE | ROOF SYSTEMS | FIBRE CEMENT | WOOD | FIBRE BOARD

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 79

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - KINGSPAN

BENCHMARK BY KINGSPAN IS YOUR REFERENCE POINT FOR THE COMPLETE INSULATED BUILDING ENVELOPE…

Kingspan sets the benchmark on quality façades

enchmark by Kingspan is an architectural range of façades, ventilated rain screens and roof systems designed using insulated panel technology. It brings together all the elements of a building envelope to help create stunning architectural façades and roofs in exciting colours, textures and finishes, whilst delivering outstanding thermal performance. In choosing Benchmark by Kingspan, architects and designers gain incredible design flexibility, from the size and profile of rain screen façades to a wide range of materials in a huge variety of colour and finishes. Kingspan’s dedicated in-house technical design team can work closely with your design team, becoming a resource to your team, able to advise on material selection, product optimisation, and bespoke project detailing. The company’s field service team is also available during construction phase, working with Kingspan specialist installation partners. From project instigation until completion, Kingspan is there to

support and advise at every step, sharing the knowledge and experience gained over the last forty years with your team. The Benchmark by Kingspan façades range is installed over a Kingspan Karrier panel, which provides all of the speed and performance benefits associated with insulated panels. The Karrier panel utilises an IPN Quadcore hybrid foam insulation, which has an industry-leading thermal performance. The IPN Quadcore core also has enhanced fire performance and a lower environmental impact than traditional products.

FLEXIBILITY Besides offering enormous flexibility in design and thermal performance, the Benchmark by Kingspan systems also allow for more efficient use of resources. Up to 50% fewer personnel are required on site to assemble an insulated panel system like Benchmark Konnect, and the mechanical handling equipment used reduces the risk of injury to contractors. The pre-fabricated

nature of the system also means far less space is required on site for storage or construction – enabling the development of previously inaccessible plots with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. Not only may less space be needed in the construction phase, but Benchmark systems can also allow developers to maximise the usable space within their buildings. As the panels are fixed to the outside of the building structure, rather than built up within it, they take up less valuable floor space, which can add significant extra value. Beyond the construction process, insulated panel systems also offer greater thermal and air leakage performance than traditional built-up systems, in a much thinner construct. This leads to lower energy bills for tenants and owners, and more valuable, saleable assets for developers. Kingspan Insulated Panels Ltd is widely recognised in the industry for its high quality and the performance of its products, as well as its commitment to excellent customer services and technical support.

To find out more about working with Benchmark by Kingspan, telephone 00353 42 9698 500 or visit the website at www.kingspanbenchmark.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 81

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - SVK

SVK - experts in Fibre Cement IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS FOR YOUR ROOF OR FAÇADE, YOU WILL FIND THE PERFECT SOLUTION YOU NEED WITHIN THE SVK PRODUCT PORTFOLIO.

“SVK’s range is based around choice, giving architects and contractors endless possibilities that suit both new build and renovation projects.” 82 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

ith over a century of manufacturing, supply and technical expertise, the company – one of the largest manufacturers of building materials in Europe – offers one of the most comprehensive portfolios of fibre cement products on the market. SVK’s range is based around choice, giving architects and contractors endless possibilities that suit both new build and renovation projects. This includes:

CLADDING With a range of decorative fibre cement façade panels, SVK has developed a durable, aesthetic and creative portfolio that offers the right façade solution regardless of the building’s style. With four different types of panel, a wide range of colours and the potential for custom work, every project can enjoy an original look. The four different panels are Ornimat, which is unique in the market of fibre cement and offers an unlimited colour and format that is made to measure with a coloured edge; Decoboard, which is perfect for a contemporary and durable look; Puro Plus, a natural grey panel with the appearance of smooth concrete is available in two standard sizes; and the through-coloured, hydrophobic range known as Colormat. These four options provide a wide assortment of fibre cement façade panels along with a 10-year warranty. They are lightweight, low maintenance and extremely suitable for ventilated façade systems. The fibre cement panels fit with every building style, offer endless possibilities for variation, with regard to colour, form and prefect style.

ROOFING As a leading producer of high-quality roofing materials, SVK offers a wide range of fibre cement slates for covering sloping roofs. In this way, SVK provides all the accessories for the perfect finish to every type of roof. For the contractor, SVK’s fibre cement slates deliver in terms of considerable savings in time and associated costs on site. Thanks to the product’s structural consistency, no preliminary grading is required while the light weight slates do not need a heavy load bearing roof construction, meaning less timber is necessary for the structure. In addition, according to the company, SVK slates are the strongest available on the market, making them resistant to breakage and very easy to work with on site. For architects and specifiers, SVK offers three colours – Blue-black; Welsh blue or Premium black. This is enhanced by the final coating on the face side of the slates with a paint curtain, giving the surface a much smoother and more beautiful finish. This beautiful finish is protected by the inclusion of special moss inhibiting constituents which leads to an extraordinarily high UV-resistance.

CORRUGATED SHEETS The Neptunus range of fibre-cement corrugated sheets from SVK is the ideal covering for the roofs of all warehouses, industrial and agricultural buildings. The durable Neptunus range of double-

pressed corrugated sheets contain carefully selected, high-quality fibres and, in this way, protects the roof against the most extreme weather conditions. As they are produced with specially selected high-quality fibres they also offer a long life span. Only the best raw materials are used to obtain these strong corrugated sheets. The coating is characterised by its high quality and ability to retain colour. This is thanks to an outstanding paint adhesion and decades of SVK experience in paint production. Finally, the Neptunus fibre-cement corrugated sheets benefit from the use of several layers of strong fibrecement material to achieve the desired sheet thickness. The sheets are then pressed twice under extreme pressure to guarantee a superior product. The unique second pressing is what makes SVK corrugated sheets so distinctive, from other brands, and makes them extremely strong and durable. The choice offered by SVK is only matched by the quality of the company’s product range. With environmentally friendly systems and technologies in place, SVK ensures that homes can be both aesthetically pleasing and in harmony with the environment in which they are built. By continually responding to the needs of the market, the company has grown to become a flexible long-term partner for construction professionals that specialise in residential as well as non-residential construction. SVK shear creativity!

SVK Ireland, The Slate Cottage, Nuttstown, Clonee, Dublin 15 Christos Michaelides, Northern Ireland Sales Manager on T: 00353 860 238138 – E: info@svk.ie www.svk.be

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 83

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - SIKA

SIKA’S NORTHERN IRELAND REPRESENTATIVE, BARRY MCCULLOUGH, DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF EMBRACING BIM…

Think BIM, think Sika!

s you will already know, as of April 4, 2016, all centrally procured public sector construction contracts are now required to incorporate Building Information Modelling (BIM) compliancy to Level 2 in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. More interestingly, in the latest Budget the Government voiced that it is dedicated to developing the next level of BIM standards – Level 3 – this is when some were concerned that it would drop this commitment altogether. The Government has pledged to invest £15million into the development of BIM Level 3 over the next five years. But just how many construction industry professionals have embraced BIM? Figures obtained from the NBS National BIM Report 2016 show that BIM adoption currently sits at 54% - a 6% rise from 48% in 2015. Also, 86% of respondents to the NBS questionnaire confirmed that they intend to adopt BIM by April 2017. This is good news for the construction industry, which has already made substantial progress with BIM. It’s also comforting news for those who have already invested, or plan to invest in BIM adoption, as it appears that BIM compliance isn’t just going to be a flash

in the pan requirement. Sika invests heavily in innovation, spending approximately £160million on R&D in 2015, and we currently have more than 2,862 single patents across our diverse construction product portfolio. Increasing our BIM object provision across our roofing, flooring and structural waterproofing systems is another important area of development that we are fully committed to. Sika embarked on the BIM journey in 2013, and we were the first flat-roofing supplier to upload BIM objects to the NBS National BIM Library for our market-leading roofing systems: Sika Sarnafil, Sika-Trocal and Sika Liquid Plastics. We have regularly updated our BIM objects since then and added new systems which you can see if you search for ‘Sika Roofing’ on the National BIM Library website. Sika currently has 50 BIM objects for roofing applications and 25 BIM objects for our flooring and structural waterproofing systems.

PHASED APPROACH Our piece of the puzzle may seem simple – providing the right information in the right format – but this process takes time, investment and planning. We believe that

the best way to develop our BIM offering is by adopting a phased approach to BIM. Asking the market about its wants and needs, and then we can develop and drip feed relevant BIM objects onto the BIM library to satisfy the needs. To meet the increasing ‘Levels of Detail’ required through the BIM life cycle, Sika recently added a selection of S-Drain rainwater outlet BIM objects. Providing designers with BIM objects that penetrate the roof structure to help with clash detection exercises was our next logical step in developing our BIM offering. Again, Sika are the first flat roofing supplier on the NBS National BIM Library to take this step, and we are already developing other Sika roofing accessories. Once an object is uploaded to the NBS National BIM Library, it is important to remember that our responsibility is ongoing. BIM objects must be kept relevant and up to date – they are a long-term commitment and it is our responsibility to make sure they remain usable and of a very high quality. For those of you using BIM, we would encourage you to contact us to let us know what you think of our current BIM offering and what you would like to see us produce next.

If you have any questions, telephone 028 9336 5868, e-mail mccullough.barry@ie.sika.com or visit the website at www.sika.com/BIM

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 85

Dura Cladding Composite Timber Cladding 10 years Warranty Type 150/21 Flush Cedar, Charcoal, Teak, Grey

87% Recycled Materials

Colour Stable Type 150/21 Weatherboard Barn Black

Quick and Easy to Install

Type 200/21 Flush Teak

Cedar Type 150 Flush Dura Cladding Type 250/21 Flush Cedar, Grey

Cedar Type 250 Flush Dura Cladding

Barn Black Type 150 Weatherboard Dura Cladding

Teak Type 200 Flush Dura Cladding

Type 300/21 Flush Desert Sand, Mocha

Ideal for new build or refurbishment projects, Dura Cladding looks and feels like natural timber whilst its unique engineered formula provides durable cladding that will not splinter, warp or rot throughout its life expectancy. Best of all, the planks are colour stable with only minimal initial weathering and do not require any painting or treating.

103 Airport Road West, Belfast, BT3 9ED T:028 9045 4599 www.ridgeway-online.com

Unit 1&2, Greene Park, Raystown, Ratoath Road, Ashbourne, Co. Meath T:+353 (01) 5060 454

...designed for the future Industrial

Rail

Marine

Decking

Cladding

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER & SUPPLIER - MURDOCK BUILDER’S MERCHANTS

CRANCLAD EXTERNAL CLADDING SYSTEM FROM MURDOCK BUILDER’S MERCHANTS IS AVAILABLE FROM ALL 11 BRANCHES...

Cladding excellence

here is now a widespread use of timber cladding on both domestic construction, as well as larger commercial projects. One of the main reasons for the appeal of timber in external cladding applications is a recognition of the environmental benefits of timber as a building material, as well as its pleasing aesthetic appearance. Timber cladding can be used in many forms to achieve a wide variety of pattern, texture and colour, ranging from the use of shingles or shakes through to unfinished panels. However, most timber cladding applications use timber boards laid horizontally, vertically or diagonally, with either flush or overlapping faces. When you add to this the range of board widths, surface finishes, profile faces, joint designs, a wide range of colours, combined with the texture and character of unfinished timber, then the versatility of timber cladding becomes very apparent. Murdock Builder’s Merchants have become experts in pre-finished and unfinished internal and external cladding.

With their own state-of-the-art tool room, they can offer an extensive bespoke service when it comes to choosing the profile for your timber cladding project. The company cuts its own irons on site and can offer profiles to suit horizontal, vertical and diagonal cladding. Notably, it has also designed and developed its own timber cladding system, available from all Murdock branches across Northern Ireland and Dublin. The ‘Cranclad System’ and its ‘hidden nail’ timber cladding profile, secondary protection membrane and fixing solutions come as a complete package which can be specified for projects. Benefits of the Cranclad system include: •Teknos Aquaseal coating • Hidden stainless steel nails • Fully NBS specified •Pre-finishing service available in a range of colours • Up to five-year warranty on colour protection (if guidelines are followed) • Environmentally friendly water-based colour treatment.

THE CRANCLAD SYSTEM

Murdock’s offers a number of natural durable species to suit external cladding, providing a complete package in clear softwoods, softwoods and hardwoods. Now fully NBS specified, Murdock’s offers specification, design, manufacturing and an onsite fitting support service.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit murdockbuildersmerchants.com or cranwoodindustries.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 87

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - TEGRAL

PRODUCT QUALITY IS MATCHED BY LOCAL KNOWLEDGE AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT…

Experts in fibre cement roofing, cladding and facades

elebrating 80 years in business this year, Tegral have been the leading experts in roofing and cladding materials for decades. Specialists in fibre cement materials, the company’s product portfolio includes slates, sidings, corrugated sheets and facades. Fibre cement is a high performance composite with a low carbon footprint. Versatile and stylish, it is a universal material which enables creative solutions for both modern and traditional architecture. Tegral is Ireland’s longest established manufacturer of fibre cement slates. The company’s flagship product is Thrutone Endurance and these slates come in a range of colours and two finishes, smooth and textured. Tegral also manufactures Supercem and Graphite Blue slates, and offers a wide range of classic natural slates sourced from the best quarries around the world. Tegral also supplies fibre cement corrugated sheets, known as Profile6R. Traditionally

used in agricultural buildings, this product is becoming more and more popular in residential projects. On the cladding and facades front, Cedral sidings are an ideal, low maintenance, rotfree alternative to traditional timber or PVCu cladding. Available in two finishes - wood and smooth - and a wide range of colours, this fibre-cement cladding solution is perfect for renovating old walls by being used as an over-clad solution. It also makes a beautiful feature on a new build. Equitone is the brand name given to Tegral’s fibre cement facades, designed by architects for architects. There are various finishes and colours available, suitable for all applications. With Equitone, the only limitation is your imagination. While facades such as these have been predominantly used on large scale industrial and commercial projects in the past, in more recent times, there has been an increase in use in residential projects, especially in Passive housing because of the

low carbon footprint they offer. A new addition to the Tegral cladding range is Vertigo. These fibre cement slates are lightweight, weather and temperature resistant and create a beautiful, distinctive and elegant façade. Specially designed for vertical applications, they are suitable for a wide range of building types. Product quality is matched with local knowledge and customers in Northern Ireland are looked after by our dedicated local team, which includes Colin Montgomery and Maurice McBride, led by Northern Ireland’s Sales Manager, David McMurtry. Backed by an excellent internal sales and technical support team, Tegral offers a complete professional solution for any stage of your project. This is enhanced by the Tegral Academy. Tegral is the sole provider of dedicated training for roofers in Ireland, with the Tegral Academy offering a free, one-day course to all roofers in Ireland where you can learn all about new building regulations and changes to Standards, visit the factory and see practical demonstrations. Since its launch in 2015, over 700 roofers have completed the course.

Tegral Building Products Ltd, Athy, Co. Kildare. T: +353 (0) 59 86 31316 E:info@tegral.com www.tegral.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 89

Why waste time with mortar?

Full range of roof tile accessories and dry fixing products

Cement

C h i m n e y P ro d u c t s

SALES OFFICE - 028 9264 7100 www.lagancementproducts.com

Concrete

Tiles

Sand

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - LAGAN CEMENT PRODUCTS

EXTENSIVE RANGE OF DRY FIX PRODUCTS COMPLEMENT THE COMPANY’S HIGH QUALITY ROOF TILES AND BRING A WIDE RANGE OF BENEFITS…

Dry and mighty with Lagan Cement Products!

any people know that Lagan Cement Products, based in Lisburn, manufactures a wide range of high quality roof tiles, but what many don’t realise is that the company also offers a comprehensive suite of roofing accessories and specialist dry fix products. The Lagan Cement Products range of core accessories include dry fix products such as valleys, underlay, guttering, roll out dry ridges and hips and individual and continuous dry verges. Also included are fixings, nails, paints, flashings, vent tiles, soakers (both individual and continuous), connectors and ventilation solutions. So what’s so good about the range of dry fix products from Lagan Cement Products? To begin with, they are low maintenance and extra secure, but the range also offers advantages such as natural movement, fast and efficient installation, and discreet

roof space ventilation. Over time, mortar can succumb to frost damage and building movement. When this occurs, repairs can be quite costly, as scaffold access is often required. By eliminating mortar you can virtually eliminate any such maintenance. Dry fix products also allow natural movement within a roof structure to take place without damaging the ridge and hip fixings. They also provide the means to ‘mechanically’ fix ridges and hip tiles, greatly reducing the risk of storm damage. You can also include discreet roof space ventilation at the ridge and hip to help control harmful condensation in the roof space. Finally, dry fix products ensure fast and efficient installation, allowing the roofer to complete their work safe in the knowledge that rain will not cause mortar to stain the roof or frost to damage the mortar before it has had the chance to properly set.

STEP-BY-STEP VIDEOS

As mortar is the more widely known, traditional fix, Lagan Cement Products has developed a series of step-by-step instructional videos which help explain how to fit dry fix systems using best practice.

The videos are all available to view on the Lagan Tile website www.lagantile.com or by searching ‘Lagan Tile’ on YouTube. The dedicated videos include step-bystep guides for fitting – • Dry ridge • Dry hip • Dry verge • Dry valley • Intersection dry valley • Vent tile

SALES OFFICE - T: 028 9264 7100 e-mail sales@lagancementproducts.com www.lagancementproducts.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 91

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - IKO

Highperformance waterproofing from IKO

KO’s range of torch-applied roofing systems is one of the most recognised, established and trusted product lines across Ireland and Europe. “It is because of our unparalleled choice of flat roof waterproofing systems that IKO is the preferred partner for so many building merchants, specifiers, contractors, and local authorities throughout the country,” said Ray Savage, IKO’s National Sales Manager. “Regardless of your budget, IKO has a product to suit your project. Whether it’s

92 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

new build or refurbishment, installation by a skilled contractor or a DIY enthusiast, there is a solution to meet every budget.” Not only is IKO recognised for its diverse range of bituminous flat roofing membranes, the company also manufactures and distributes an extensive range of Hyload structural waterproofing products, IKO Rubershield pitched roofing membranes, IKOFlash leadreplacement flashings, IKO Ruberseal EPDM membranes, IKOpro innovative liquid applied systems, and the world-renowned range of

bitumen roofing shingles. “It is this product diversity which enables us to be the first point of contact for our merchant partners with any roofing or waterproofing projects, whether it is private dwelling or commercial development, one roof or many,” added Ray. To find out more, visit your local builders’ merchant or contact IKO, telephone 028 9086 7079, e-mail waterproofing@iko-ni.com or visit the website at www.iko.ie

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Cladding & Faรงades A strong reputation for supplying a range of fully tested and certified exterior products

tennants excellence in building products

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

www.tennantsbp.com

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

SUPPLIER - TENNANTS

PROVEN PERFORMANCE AND PLENTY OF CHOICE PLACES TENNANTS’ CLADDING RANGE AT THE FOREFRONT OF THE INDUSTRY…

External façade systems that combine choice and quality

ladding and facades is one of the specialist areas that leading independent distributor, Tennants, focuses on. The company has found the perfect balance between offering high levels of choice to give architects and specifiers a wide range of options and allowing contractors to benefit from the latest developments that make installation fast and effective. Tennants Building products has a strong reputation for supplying the construction industry with a range of fully tested and certified exterior products. These include quality façade render systems and finishes; EWIS (External Wall Insulation Systems); and substrate laminate and natural stone boards. Choice is a central factor, with more and more architects opting for striking yet functional façade systems that enhance the exterior of a building. However, allied to

these high levels of choice for architects are the latest innovations for contractors, which make the installation process much faster and more efficient. Customers also benefit from the knowledge of experienced staff who are available to provide advice on the entire range of products. Regardless of the size of a project, Tennants’ approach has always been to work extensively with the project team at pre-construction stage right through to completion. In this way, the team can facilitate designers and contractors, ensuring that their design criteria is fulfilled by sourcing products that will meet with exacting specifications, including bespoke solutions and materials from specialist manufacturers to meet with all design team and client expectations. This level of service is key when sourcing cladding and facades solutions.

SPECIALIST PRODUCTS Tennants Building Products prides itself on only working with leading manufacturers, giving customers complete peace of mind when it comes to specifying and installing products from the company’s extensive range. While choice is a key factor in what Tennants offers, the consistent theme in the cladding and façade range is quality – as demonstrated by the instantly recognisable manufacturers listed below.

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

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 95

ROOFING, CLADDING & FAÇADES

MANUFACTURER - SAM

Southern Exposure LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW SAM MET THE CHALLENGE OF CREATING BEAUTIFUL BEACH HUTS WITH A LONG LIFESPAN AND LOW MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS IN AN EXPOSED LOCATION… THE BACK STORY

THE SOLUTION

A crystal blue seascape and golden sand make up Mudeford Sandspit in East Dorset - home to some of Britain’s most expensive luxury beach huts. Off the Isle of Wight and a ferry ride from civilisation, these huts are a little piece of heaven for beachgoers who want a quiet trip and immersive nature experience. It is here that private clients commissioned SAM’s customer, Ecologic Developments, to rebuild beach huts on the spit. But on a sea-locked spit of land, how do you create and transport something that’s beautiful, functional, and also long-lasting in weather that can be more than occasionally temperamental? Arriving at the Mudeford sandspit is a bit of a journey too - getting there requires a 30-minute trek on foot, a ride on a novelty Noddy train (how good is that?) or a short ferry trip. Complicating matters further is the fact that Mudeford is a delicate site near an SSI – a special site of scientific interest. Against this backdrop, Pete Samson and the team from Ecologic Developments needed to transport their huts from the off-site base through an ancient woodland and all the way back to Mudeford.

Getting it right required impressive logistics and an even more impressive building material. This is exactly why Pete and his five-man team chose SAM Trimax. A year ago, Ecologic Developments made the decision to clad entirely with SAM Trimax for the longevity, stability, and peace of mind. With a full, off-site construction system making the spine of their builds, Ecologic Developments used SAM Trimax to maximise productivity without any risk from the weather to the six-week build. “We chose SAM Trimax for the peace of mind,” said Pete. “It’s got that longevity. We impart that knowledge to our customers and really allow them to make a conscious decision that they’re using a product that’s not only made through a non-toxic, sustainable process, but is something that’s going to pay dividends in the long run in terms of lack of maintenance and looking good.” Durable and high-quality, SAM Trimax was the perfect choice, especially when compared to timber, a cement-based cladding, or UPVC cladding. A further challenge for Pete’s team was

getting the fully finished huts on site. The standard-sized huts made the trek on a low-bedded lorry, but the extra-wide huts couldn’t fit through the ancient woodland on this nature reserve through which the sandspit is accessed, so the team devised a novel journey involving a locallycommissioned barge. A finished hut was tied to the back of a low-loader and driven down to a slipway where it was craned onto one of the barges and then dragged down the river to complete the journey. This year, Ecologic Developments has fitted 342 long lengths of profiled cladding in either the shiplap or feather edge profile to their builds, and they’ve been so impressed with the swap to SAM Trimax that Pete recommends it for all their high exposure area projects.

THE RESULT The residents have noticed the difference in quality. “The feedback we’ve had so far from all the local community is that our huts are a cut above the rest,” Pete said. “Undeniably one of the main factors in that is the neatness, uniformity, and the crisp look you can achieve with the SAM Trimax cladding.”

For further information on SAM products and services, call the Customer Service Team on 028 9442 8288 or e-mail marketing@sammouldings.co.uk or visit www.sammouldings.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 97

FMB NEWS

FMB NI CONTINUES TO GIVE MEMBERS THE EDGE. NORTHERN BUILDER BRINGS YOU SOME OF THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE ORGANISATION…

NI’s ‘lost generation’ of builders need leadership, says FMB The new Executive in Northern Ireland must act decisively to support the construction sector, or risk creating a ‘lost generation’ of builders, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has warned. Gavin McGuire, Northern Ireland Director of the FMB, said, “A year ago, in the buildup to the General Election, we called on Northern Ireland’s politicians to set out a clear strategy for tackling the housing crisis and improving access to finance, and to provide a Gavin McGuire, Northern Ireland by prioritising capital much-needed stimulus to the Director of the FMB. investment. Questionable construction sector. Sadly, a decisions, such as the year on, indecision and a culture sudden removal of grants for companies of short termism continue to let industry working with renewable heat products – confidence sag. If this climate prevails, the which left many SMEs in the lurch – have exodus of Northern Irish businesses and to be avoided at all costs. We’re also still tradespeople to other parts of the UK will waiting for the Government to deliver a continue. There’s a very real risk of doing proper house building strategy – the lack permanent damage to our skills base. of which is creating further uncertainty for “The Government needs to tackle small building firms and forcing them to look this haemorrhaging of talent head on

“For every £1 invested in construction, £2.84 is generated in the wider economy, underlining the wider value of well planned investment.” elsewhere for work. “The construction industry accounts for around 10% of Northern Ireland’s total GDP and provides nearly one in ten jobs – the latter underlines the potentially damaging consequences of an ever-worsening skills drain,” stated Gavin. “On the other hand, for every £1 invested in construction, £2.84 is generated in the wider economy, underlining the wider value of well planned investment.”

75th anniversary celebrations To commemorate its 75th anniversary, FMB NI is planning a celebration event for members, with profiles of local work as part of the presentation. The event, on September 22, at Stormont, will receive wide coverage and provide an excellent networking opportunity. FMB is also holding a black tie 75th anniversary ball on Friday, December 2 at the Europa Hotel, Belfast. The evening will

include sparkling festive cocktails on arrival for guests, a four-course festive menu and entertainment for the night. Tickets will be priced at £60 per person or a table of 10 for £550. The event is open to both FMB and non-FMB members. For more information on either event, contact Gavin McGuire on 028 9446 0416 or e-mail gavinmcguire@fmb.org.uk

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

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 99

CIS NEWS

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

Large number of PANs submitted this year already

ince July 1, 2015 there has been a statutory duty on developers to consult with the local community in advance of submitting a planning application for major and regionally significant development proposals. From a residential point of view, for instance, ‘major’ includes development of 50 units or more or a site area of over two hectares. The retailing threshold affects sites outside town centres for developments of over 1,000sqm or a site of over one hectare. Developers are required to submit a ‘Proposal of Application Notice’ (PAN) 12 weeks in advance to submitting a full planning application. In the first two quarters of 2016, Construction Information Services (CIS) has noted a large number of PANs being submitted. In the residential sector, 350-380 houses are proposed for a site in Bangor by Victoria Properties LLP. Clanmil Housing Association also wishes to construct 58 dwellings in Bangor. Eight hundred houses are proposed by South Bank Square Ltd for a site in Derry-Londonderry, amounting to a £100million investment over 10 years. HB Building Services requires permission for 104 apartments on a site at Knocknagoney, Belfast. Commercially, Orby Investment is proposing an eight-storey retail and office building in Arthur Place, Belfast. Kilmona Holdings wishes to redevelop the Carryduff Shopping Centre to create apartments, a Lidl supermarket and nine additional retail units. A Lidl supermarket is subject to a PAN for a site in Craigavon, and a PAN has also been submitted by C&V Developments for a 4-star hotel and spa complex in Portstewart. The education sector has also seen a rush of PANs, including one for a new 21-class-based school for St

BRICK BITS • P&K McKaigue has started work on a £1.7million supported housing development in Belfast.

Patrick’s Primary School in Belfast and a new sevenclass primary school in Omagh. A £22million college development at the Southern Regional College in Armagh and a £8.1 million development at its Banbridge campus are also currently subject to PAN applications. Ards Football Club is hoping to build new football grounds at Movilla Road in Newtownards, and Edmund Rice Schools Trust (NI) Ltd wishes to construct a community sports facility in Glengormley. You can access full details on these and thousands of other key and major construction projects on the CIS online database. By signing up to the popular CIS free subscription service (a quick and simple process) you can start viewing complete descriptions and contact details of five projects per week, for as long as you like. *Please note: This CIS data was accurate on May 19, 2016. Visit www.cisireland.com for the latest project updates on these schemes.

THE LATEST REPUBLIC OF IRELAND PROJECTS… PROJECT

COUNTY

PROMOTER

CONTRACT STAGE

€6m school extension

Meath

Beaufort College

contract awarded

€81m residential development

Dublin

Cairn Homes Plc

on site

€80m office development

Dublin

RGRE Ballsbridge

plans granted

€2.5m hospital extension

Offaly

Health Service Executive

on site

€15m nursing home extension

Dublin

Sisters of Nazareth

on site

€90m film studios

Wicklow

Ashford Studios

plans submitted

€11m school development

Meath

Dunboyne National

tender

€45m distribution warehouse

Kildare

Lidl Ireland

plans submitted

€70m data centre

Dublin

Microsoft Ireland

plans granted

€8.9m office extension

Limerick

Wychwood Properties

plans granted

• Turkington Construction is working on the £500,000 fit out of a cell therapy suite and associated refurbishment/extension of the existing Plenum Building at the Royal Group of Hospitals. • O’Hare & McGovern has started works for Lacuna Developments at Dublin Road, Belfast. A £10million student accommodation complex is envisaged. • Work has started on a £350million residential development in Ballyclare by The Neptune Group. The site has approval for 1,800 homes. • Killultagh Estates Ltd gets planning approval for a 10-storey office and retail building in Belfast. • An 11-storey mixed use development (apartments and retail) has been approved for Little Patrick Street, Belfast. • Full plans have been submitted for a new £2.2million primary school in Carrickfergus.

FOR THE LATEST CONSTRUCTION LEADS, VISIT WWW.CISIRELAND.COM 100 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

TRAINING

NEW FACILITIES AT INDUSTRY TRAINING SERVICES PROVIDE THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF PRACTICAL TRAINING AND TEAM BUILDING…

Safety day proves a great success T his year’s McNicholas Construction Services’ Annual Safety Day at Industry Training Services was a great success. Cormac O’Donnell, Head of Operations at McNicholas Construction Services, said it was their best ever safety day and they are already looking forward to next year. The day, which is a first for this new concept in Northern Ireland, was held on June 6. The event catered for 200-plus employees and consisted of inspirational presentations, demonstrations, engaging activities around health and safety and team building activities, as well as breakfast and lunch. The aim of the event was to increase the emphasis in reducing potential unsafe acts by highlighting potential risks and ensuring everyone works safely together. Topics included: • Safety in Excavations - Candidates got involved in inspections of various types of trench shoring.

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• Environment & Wellbeing - Candidates got involved in measuring noise levels of commonly used equipment as well as a practical demonstration of following environmental procedures whilst pumping dirty water. • Banksman & Safe Digging - Candidates witnessed company method statements being followed during excavation around a gas main. Other activities included Zorb football, a digger challenge, archery and a climbing wall. Prizes were awarded for best time climbing the wall, best time completing the digger challenge and best safety suggestion. Cormac added, “We are delighted that our Safety Day at ITS was such a huge success. We were able to get our key operational safety messages across to our operatives in a practical manner and when combined with a mix of fun activities the day was thoroughly enjoyed by all concerned. This

is a new concept in delivering our safety message and we are very much looking forward to next year’s event at ITS.” McNicholas is committed to the ongoing health and well-being of all the company’s staff, which is clearly evident from this fantastic event. Brendan Crealey, Managing Director at ITS, said, “We are delighted to have the facilities and resources that our new centre provides to bring this event to fruition for McNicholas. The day proved to be so popular that McNicholas will be returning next year for their annual safety day once again.” Industry Training Services wish McNicholas Construction Services good luck in the Utility Week Stars Awards in which the Safety Day at ITS has been shortlisted for the Health and Safety Champion – Initiative Award If you are interested in a similar event at ITS call 028 3839 8700 or e-mail info@industrytrainingservices.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

HÖRMANN DOORS

INTRODUCTION OF THE NEW IHAS SYSTEM OPENS THE DOOR TO A FASTER AND MORE EFFICIENT SERVICE FROM THE GARAGE DOOR EXPERTS…

Hörmann’s IHAS quotation system now at Haldane Fisher

Roy Shellam, Area Sales Manager, Hörmann, conducts training on the new Hörmann IHAS quotation system with Haldane Fisher staff.

rdering Hörmann doors from Haldane Fisher has become more efficient following the introduction of Hörmann's new online configurator system. Hörmann garage and entrance doors are distributed exclusively in Northern Ireland by Haldane Fisher and key staff at the builders’ merchants recently completed training on the IHAS system. This new service is set to be rolled out across all the company’s branches in the coming months. All of Hörmann’s approved dealers can access the manufacturer’s specially designed online configurator system for free through the Dealer Forum. The IHAS system simplifies the quotation process by allowing dealers to specify any door and also build up an accurate quote quickly for

“IHAS is an intuitive system with a simple user interface that guides the user through the system.” 104 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

HÖRMANN DOORS

their customers. Dealers can enter the specific dimensions and requirements of the Hörmann door, as well as the chosen paint, finish and any additional accessories. The system then generates a quote, along with a scaled drawing and all the necessary technical details required for correct installation. A further advantage of the IHAS system is that dealers can add their own discounts to the quote provided and incorporate this into the final document. By using the IHAS system, the usual middleman is removed which significantly speeds up the process. The quote generated is accurate and presented in a professional format and is easy to edit, if required. Charlie Mount, Technical Sales Manager at Haldane Fisher, said, “I have been using IHAS for a few months now and it really makes a difference in speeding up the process of providing a complete quotation. “In the past we had a huge price book that we had to go through to find the right door and then add on the finishes. It was a time consuming process. With IHAS it is a simple and straightforward process

which is fast and efficient. It is perfect for our retail customers but also when we are working with architects and specifiers. “Not only does it present the full price, but also the complete technical specification and drawings – everything a customer or installer would require.” Roy Shellam, Area Sales Manager, Hörmann, carried out the training on IHAS with Haldane Fisher staff recently. He said, “IHAS is an intuitive system with a simple user interface that guides the user through the system. It speeds up the entire quotation process, meaning staff and customers benefit. The system has been designed to only provide solutions that we can manufacture so you are always assured that we can deliver what you have been quoted. It is all very simple and straightforward and will enhance the service provided by Haldane Fisher.” Hörmann is Europe’s number one supplier of top of the range garage doors and the exclusive partnership with Haldane Fisher has been in place for nearly 30 years. Hörmann products are on show at Haldane Fisher’s branches in Belfast, Lisburn, Coleraine, Larne, Bangor,

Ballymena, Newry and Portadown, where the new IHAS quotation system will be available. Hörmann offers a choice of up-and-over doors available in steel, timber and GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester), sectional doors, Rollmatic roller doors, front entrance doors plus a range of electric operators.

Haldane Fisher, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, BT35 6QQ T: 028 3026 3201 www.haldane-fisher.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 105

EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE PROVIDES A TAILORED APPROACH FROM THE HEALTH AND SAFETY SPECIALISTS…

Bespoke training from JMD

elfast-based JMD Training celebrated its 6th anniversary in April and the company continues to go from strength to strength. Offering a training and consultancy service, JMD Training was established by Jim and Maire Donnelly in their front room. Since then, the company has flourished and is now based at a 7,500sqft training centre on Boucher Crescent and boasts clients working in a wide range of sectors across Northern Ireland, including the construction and manufacturing industries. Key to the company’s success is the tailored approach that it offers. “We believe in delivering quality training at affordable prices and making sure that the courses are enjoyable,” said Jim. “Training can be viewed as boring, so we try to engage attendees and keep it interesting, relevant and interactive.” In order to do this, JMD Training can conduct a training needs analysis to help

companies and individuals find the right course for them. These courses can then be delivered either in JMD Training’s Boucher Crescent premises or at a location selected by the client. The company specialises in health and safety services and offers a range of accredited training options including CSR, NEBOSH, IOSH, EMAS and CIEH. Candidates can also complete a range of NVQs, while health and safety consultancy services are available with JMD Training’s Occupational Safety and Health Registered Consultant (HSE NI) Jim Donnelly. JMD Training courses are also eligible for grants for companies registered with CITB NI (Construction Skills) NI. Jim concluded, “We offer an extensive range of quality training courses that cover a diverse selection of needs. We can also develop training plans specifically for your organisation, so please get in touch and let us know what we can do to help.”

For more information 028 9066 4304 or 028 9068 2033, e-mail info@jmdtraining.com or visit www.jmdtraining.com

PROVIDING COST EFFECTIVE TRAINING AND CONSULTANCY SERVICES TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND BUSINESSES.

JMD Training

CLAIM 10% OFF ALL BOOKINGS UNTIL END OF AUGUST. DISCOUNT CODE: NB16

Developing Your Business

Don’t delay, book today! About us...

JMD Training is a training and consultancy service provider specialising in health and safety services across Northern Ireland. Due to our vast range of services we cater for all industry types. JMD Training offer a range of accredited training: CSR, NEBOSH, IOSH, CIEH and more.

JMD Training Courses • CSR Health & Safety Awareness • CSR Site Safety Supervisor Course • NEBOSH General Certificate • Abrasive Wheels • Manual Handling • Emergency First Aid at Work • First Aid at Work Certificate

• QUALITY SERVICE • CLIENT FOCUSED • FLEXIBLE LEARNING • VALUE FOR MONEY

JMD Training - 65 Boucher Crescent - Belfast - BT12 6HU - T: 028 9066 4304 - T: 028 9068 2033 E: info@jmdtraining.com - www.jmdtraining.com YOU CAN ALSO GET THE LATEST INFORMATION ON OUR

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

165 Dromore Road, Hillsborough, BT26 6JA. E: bridgecommercials@hotmail.com www.bridgecommercials.co.uk

COMPANY PROFILE

Lewis Services - a company you can rely on LEWIS SERVICES OFFERS A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF EXPERT ELECTRICAL SERVICES TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY…

uilding contractors looking to work with a company offering skilled, reliable electrical services can be rest assured that Lewis Services is a name to be trusted. Based in Doagh, Ballyclare, Tony Lewis has built up a successful business over the past few years, and one that is expanding all the time. “We work mostly on domestic/residential and commercial projects and have recently completed a rewiring refurbishment project of 17 apartments in Belfast,” said Tony. “Our enthusiastic team is always on stand-by and ready to get to work, using the latest equipment. We are always keen to participate in new and challenging projects and would like to spread the word

and let contractors know that we are a reliable electrical contractor, keen to work in partnership with main contractors on residential and commercial projects. “Working across the UK and Ireland, we deliver a comprehensive range of expert electrical services including installation, maintenance, testing and inspection. Our expertise is based on matching our knowledge and skill base with a reliable service. Our clients know that we will be there for them, whenever we are needed.” A widely skilled team, extensive certification and years of experience enables Lewis Services to capably deliver design, installation and maintenance of everything from vast heavy industrial

“We are keen to work in partnership with main contractors on residential and commercial projects.” 108 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

COMPANY PROFILE

“We work on domestic/ residential and commercial projects and have recently completed a rewiring refurbishment.” Compnay founder, Tony Lewis.

systems, work in hazardous areas, to extra lighting or power point. Lewis Services delivers a comprehensive range of expert electrical services including installation, maintenance, testing and inspection. These include COMMERCIAL INSTALLATIONS: From factory and office installations, Lewis Services installs every kind of electrical system for commercial and public clients. DOMESTIC INSTALLATIONS: Lewis Services has extensive experience in the domestic sectors. Projects have ranged from rom new builds to upgrading old electrical equipment and wiring to comply with new regulations.

Diana Lloyd, Office Manager.

SURGE PROTECTION: As a result of so many IT and power supplies being destroyed by lightning strikes, customers should consider a survey regarding surge protection to their premises.

shutdown period, the team can develop a planned maintenance programme to maximise the client’s productivity and electrical safety, minimising any possible downtime.

ELECTRICAL INSPECTIONS: Lewis Services offers a full test and inspection service to establish the safety of installations and ongoing condition/periodic inspection reporting to identify any possible deterioration, regardless of how big or small.

CONTRACTING SERVICES: Lewis Services can provide labour-only services, with or without materials, for professional and electrical contracting services throughout the UK and Ireland. Tony added, “We have an expert team who can work on a project from the initial design stages through to installation and commissioning. We pride ourselves on building strong partnerships with contractors and other sub-contractors and being an integral part of a successful team.”

CONTINUAL OR PERIODIC MAINTENANCE SERVICES: Lewis Services offers a full maintenance programme to suit all requirements. Whether outside the client’s own hours of working or over an annual

Lewis Services, 15 Main Street, Doagh, Ballyclare, BT390QL T: 028 9332 4390 - E: info@lewisservices.org www.lewisservices.org

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 109

QUARRY PRODUCTS

CES QUARRY PRODUCTS DELIVERS TOP SERVICE AND QUALITY PRODUCTS THROUGHOUT BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND AND THE UK…

Service that’s set in stone

ood service lies at the core of any successful business, and CES Quarry Products has put it at the very heart of its offering, with a well-established reputation for providing exceptional levels of service across all aspects of its operation in quarry stone and concrete products’ manufacture. “When Cyril E Stevenson (CES) started the business in 1948, he laid the foundations for the modern, dynamic company that it has become today,” said Sales and Marketing Executive, Steven Oldham. CES Quarry Products is a third-generation, family-owned operation, in which the ethos of good service is engrained in staff at all levels from the moment they join the business. This code of practice has been instrumental in helping the business not only survive in tough times, but also to maintain and grow its customer base over the years, continuing to move forward with innovative products that are sold throughout Ireland, GB and mainland Europe. “As the market continues to pick up, we continue to offer quality products and a high level of service - and all at competitive prices!” explained Steven. “We now have two quarries, two block yards, and two ready-mix plants, with a third one due to open soon in Ballynahinch. “All the yards are located centrally in County Down and are ideally situated to service the surrounding countryside, whilst still being

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within a short distance of the greater Belfast area. “We have a friendly and knowledgeable despatch staff, and orders for block, stones and ready-mix can be serviced within 24 hours of ordering,” continued Steven. “Investment in trucks and plant has also paid dividends, enabling us to keep up with demand and the level of service expected by our customers.”

QUALITY STANDARDS CES operates to ISO 9001:2008, the internationally-recognized quality management system, based on continuous improvement of quality in terms of service and product. The management system is internally audited on a monthly basis and externally audited twice a year by a UKASaccredited auditing company. CES also has accreditation to ISO 14001:2004, the globally accepted standard focused on environmental management, which demonstrates CES Quarry Products’ commitment to the environment, and which assists CES to comply with current environmental legislation. It is one of only a few companies in its sector to hold OHAS 18001, for occupational health and safety management. The company can also give an assurance that all products are manufactured to the relevant British/EN standards, through a certificate of entitlement to use the BSI Kitemark.

This BSI system not only regulates the quality and consistency of the final product but also the production process, from daily, weekly and monthly maintenance and observation checks to quarterly calibration of all weighing equipment. It regulates the transport and delivery process to ensure timely deliveries and that working time of concrete is monitored from when it is batched until it is offloaded. “We believe in offering the best service possible in every aspect of our business, thus building long-term relationships with our customers that help us keep ahead of the competition,” added Steven. For more information, telephone 028 9751 9494, e-mail sales@cesquarryproducts.com or visit www.cesquarryproducts.com

CES product range and services Ready-mix and mini-mix concrete • Traditional floor screed • Liquid floor screed • Building and plastering mortar • Block and brick • Lightweight insulation block • Quarry stone • High PSV grit stone • Recycled and secondary aggregates • Decorative gravel • Supply and lay floor screed service • Aggregate recycling facility

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

CES QUARRY PRODUCTS

MANUFACTURERS OF QUARRY STONE, CONCRETE PRODUCTS AND BITUMINOUS SURFACING MATERIALS T: 028 9751 9494 - E: sales@cesquarryproducts.com www.cesquarryproducts.com

QUARRY STONE

CONCRETE BLOCK & BRICK

READY-MIX & MINI-MIX CONCRETE

SUPPLY & LAY SCREED SERVICES

DECORATIVE GRAVEL

BITUMINOUS SURFACING MATERIALS

COMMERCIAL TAPS

Pegler Yorkshire expands commercial tap range POPULAR COMMERCIAL TAP RANGE EXTENDED AND ENHANCED WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN…

popular commercial tap range has undergone a major design and functionality overhaul to ensure modern water saving efficiency and design credentials are met. The ‘Performa’ range by leading plumbing and heating manufacturer Pegler Yorkshire has seen amendments to the classic design as well as the range extended to provide further options for commercial specifiers, plumbers and end users. “Our Performa range continues to be hugely popular in educational, healthcare, leisure and commercial settings and these new additions will only serve to reinforce its market position,” said Mike Johnson, Taps and Washroom Manager, Pegler Yorkshire. “Design is equally important as water saving and durability, and our enhanced Performa range delivers an aesthetically pleasing family of taps along with more practical considerations.” The Performa range now includes new design Non-Concussive high performance

tap which benefits from a flow rating of 3.8 litres/min whilst the auto shut-off function gives 12-15 seconds of free flowing water. The inner cartridge has been redesigned to provide a smoother operation and easier push mechanism. It also benefits from a multi-directional filter which is fully adjustable providing a flow of water suitable for a range of sinks and applications. The new Performa Sensor taps from Pegler Yorkshire also benefit from the new sleek design and incorporate an improved performance via an integrated solenoid valve with filter. These are available in two forms, an Infrared version and a Capacitive version that utilises the most advanced technology to give more controlled sensitivity. Capacitive technology is impervious to light and it is activated by the user being within a certain proximity of the tap, then once the user is out of proximity, the tap deactivates. The Performa Sensor

taps have a maximum of 30 seconds activation time to prevent vandalism, and furthermore a newly angled spout eliminates any stagnant water within the tap system protecting the inner workings and provides user safety. “We want to encourage specifiers and contractors to choose taps that allow the use of water to be controlled, supporting water saving and limits the need for direct contact with them, minimising the transference of bacteria and infection. It was important that we supported the market demand for this with a stylish design,” said Mike. “In a commercial washroom setting these are vital considerations and we are proud that our new Performa range encompasses all aspects of these requirements for today’s market trends.” Other aspects to the Performa range include healthcare sector specific taps with antimicrobial properties to aid infection control and lever handles to negate the need for dexterous operation.

Contact George McGuire, Area Sales Manager, Commercial Northern T: 07912 406101 - George.McGuire@pegleryorkshire.co.uk www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Heating & Ventilation AN INSIGHT INTO A NEW RANGE OF AIR-HANDLING UNITS, THE DESIGN AND DISTRIUBUTION OF VENTILATION SYSTEMS, AND HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATION

MECHANICAL VENTILATION SYSTEMS | AIR-HANDLING UNITS | CLIMATE CONTROL

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HEATING & VENTILATION

SUPPLY & INSTALLATION - BEAM

THE MORE A HOME IS INSULATED, THE GREATER THE NEED TO VENTILATE EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY…

Built-in energy-efficient ventilation from Beam

ncreased airtightness in a dwelling requires a planned ventilation approach. The objective of a good ventilation strategy is to provide a balance between energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Poor ventilation in a home causes streaming windows, musty odours, dampness, condensation, mould growth and excessive carbon dioxide – it is also the biggest cause of heat loss. Beam offers the following types of mechanical ventilation systems • Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) - Fresh air is continuously drawn into the home via the low-energy MVHR unit located in the roofspace/utility area of the building. The ventilation unit filters the incoming air to remove pollutants and insects. Once this air is passed through the high-efficiency heat exchanger with the ventilation power unit, the warmed, clean, fresh-filtered air is distributed around the

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building through a series of ducts which run to each habitable room (living room, bedrooms etc). • Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) The quiet and compact central mechanical extraction ventilation system is usually installed in a roof space or cupboard and ducted to all wetrooms. The low-energy unit runs continuously at a low normal ventilation rate, extracting stale polluted air from rooms where the most moisture is generated (eg kitchens and bathrooms). A flow of fresh air from outside can be supplied by a Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) unit/s or window trickle vents to match boost extract rate from the MEV fan. • Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) - The sophisticated, energy-efficient, whole home ventilation and condensation control unit is designed to gently ventilate continuously from a central position on the landing or central hallway. Moisture-laden air is diluted,

displaced and replaced with subtle freshfiltered air, forcing contaminants out of the property through leakages or extract points in wetrooms (if applicable). A PIV system is the ideal solution for condensation and mould issues in existing homes. To request more information or for project advice, survey or trade quotation, visit www.beamcentralsystems.com or telephone 028 7963 2424.

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HEATING & VENTILATION

SUPPLY & INSTALLATION - BPC VENTILATION

WITH INCREASING AWARENESS OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) AND BUILDING REGULATIONS, IT’S IMPORTANT THAT THE CORRECT TYPE OF VENTILATION IS INSTALLED…

BPC Ventilation sets the standard

s a designer and distributor of leading ventilation manufacturers such as Vent-Axia, Airflow and Xpelair, BPC Ventilation can provide a bespoke design, ensuring that the correct ventilation solution is specified and supplied in new and existing houses. “As ventilation specialists, we supply and, if required, install the highest quality home ventilation systems to the trade and self-builders in any location in Ireland and the UK,” said Company Director, Gary Burns. “From our new large premises at Larne harbour, we aim to provide the best possible ventilation solutions and customer service, as well as a low price guarantee.” BPC Ventilation can supply everything from bathroom fans to whole house heat recovery systems, with an extensive range of heat recovery kits available off-the-shelf, ready for next day dispatch. Other services include home ventilation system design, technical

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support, commissioning, repairs and maintenance. Sales Manager, Gavin Millar, commented, “We are just completing our new showroom, which will have the largest range of Vent–Axia heat recovery and ventilation systems on display in Ireland, plus the latest products from Airflow, Xpelair and SachVac.” Heat recovery systems are now the most popular choice for new energy-efficient homes and BPC Ventilation has one of the largest ranges of MVHR units and types of ducting, from rigid PVC pipe to the latest crushproof radial ducting systems which can save up to 50% on installation time and provide a quieter and more efficient ventilation system.

Also available is a range of high quality central vacuum systems from Sach-Vac that combine the latest advances in vacuum design and performance at very competitive prices. Contact BPC Ventilation for a free quotation on 028 2827 5150 or visit www.bpcventilation.com

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HEATING & VENTILATION

SUPPLIER & DISTRIBUTOR - FAIRHAVEN H&V SERVICES

FAIRHAVEN H&V SERVICES EXPANDS AN ALREADY IMPRESSIVE PRODUCT WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF MANDIK AS AIR-HANDLING UNITS...

New air-handling unit range for Northern Ireland

airhaven H&V Services has strengthened its ventilation product range with a new partner in the air-handling sector. Mandik AS is a longestablished manufacturer of high quality airhandling units, based in the Czech Republic. Mandik units are constructed using a proprietary frameless design, which offers several advantages over the commonlyused ‘pentapost’ aluminium frame AHU. These include lighter unit weight, improved thermal insulation and lower thermal bridging. Unit airflow capacities range from 0.15 to 28 m3/sec, and are available with integral controls, based on the Siemens Climatix range. Casings are available in a

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choice of two aspect ratios: square or low profile. An ultra-low profile range is also available for ceiling void mounting, with an overall height of 380mm. Fairhaven’s sales engineers have been fully trained in the use of AHUman, Mandik’s own AHU selection and design software. The package allows for a fast turnaround of unit selections and quotations, providing detailed specifications and 3D models to

consultants and contractors. For consulting engineers and other system designers who are interested in learning more about the technical aspects of AHU selection, Fairhaven is now offering a CPD seminar on AHU design, including a guide to the latest ERP Ecodesign regulations. Contact Fairhaven H&V Services, 3 Glenavy Rd, Moira, Craigavon, BT67 0LT T: 028 9261 1648 W: fairhavenservices.co.uk

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HEATING & VENTILATION

MANUFACTURER - RELIANCE WORLDWIDE CORPORATION (UK) LTD

THE MERITS OF TIUS AND THE ADDED BENEFITS OF CHOOSING A RADIANCE® TIU, THE FIRST RANGE OF UK DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED DEVICES…

Radiance® TIUs from Reliance

nlike many homes in the UK and Ireland which have been built with individual gas combi boilers located in each apartment, Community Heating Networks (CHNs) have long been the solution in mainland Europe to provide heating and hot water in large community developments, with a centralised energy centre coupled with a low temperature hot water network. As the technology available has improved and become more popular, in recent years we have seen an increase in CHN developments. They can also help to comply with current legislation for energy efficiency and reduced emissions. TIUs are an important part of a CHN. They work on a heat transfer basis, transmitting heat from the primary network supply (which has been heated from the central energy centre) via heat exchangers inside the TIU to the secondary side. One heat exchanger supplies the space heating radiator circuit and the second heat exchanger instantaneously heats the domestic hot water. As a result, TIUs are

Stuart Harron, Reliance Worldwide Corporation, receives the Highly Commended award in the Innovative Product of the Year category at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards, from Jonathan Martindale of sponsors, Phoenix Natural Gas.

highly efficient, environmentally friendly and can contribute to achieving a ‘zero carbon’ rating. They do not require a gas supply into the apartment or any external flues, which makes them popular with architects who are free to design aesthetically pleasing, stylish buildings without the usual planning constraints of gas appliances. The use of TIUs is also welcome news for specifiers and contractors. Installation time, material costs and maintenance are significantly reduced as copper pipework and flues are no longer needed. The need to conform to Gas Safe or FGAS regulations in the apartment is also completely removed. According to a report from BSRIA in 2014, the market for TIUs is predicted to increase in volume by 16% a year and sales in 2017 are predicted to be between 45,000 to 50,000 units. RWC UK has used its vast knowledge and experience of the plumbing and heating industry, together with a new dedicated manufacturing facility, to introduce the first major brand of UK designed and manufactured thermal interface units to the market. The Radiance® range of TIUs is backed up by RWC UK’s Construction CPD Service and RIBA-approved CPD scheme, and covers all aspects of TIU selection and installation for CHNs. Radiance TIUs have also been recognised by two industry awards in 2016, being shortlisted in the H&V News Awards in the Innovative Products category, and receiving the Highly Commended in the Innovative Product of the Year category of Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards. Radiance TIUs are designed with whole system efficiency in mind. The units are ‘demand controlled’ which ensures water only flows through the unit when there is a requirement for heat or hot water. This minimises the potential for limescale build up, prolongs system longevity and reduces standing heat loss. All internal pipe work is made from fully insulated, corrugated

Radiance® TIUs from RWC UK.

stainless steel to enable full flexibility and further reduce heat loss. Pipe connections are made using union fittings to ensure complete reliability and easy maintenance. The clean manufacturing process, where connections are made without soldering or welding, negates the need for flushing the unit during commissioning and mitigates against contamination. Radiance TIUs also incorporate a unique, patented spring loaded expansion vessel, which is maintenance-free and offers unrivalled extended lifetime high performance. All Radiance TIUs are fully traceable with a unique serial number marked on every unit, making routine maintenance or repairs easy to track. A number of additional options can also be included, such as a first fix rail, flushing by-pass valve, pre-payment meter or an ultra-sonic heat meter which measures the individual apartment’s heat usage and can be read via radio frequency without the need to enter the property and disturb residents. RWC UK offers a complete system design, backed by expert technical support and accredited CPD courses. Manufactured in the UK, to UK specifications, Radiance TIUs can be relied upon to meet the requirements of any job.

For more information on Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) Ltd, contact Stuart Harron, Sales Director for Ireland, on 07909 532133, e-mail stuart.harron@rwc.com or Garth Walsh, Regional Sales Manager, Northern Ireland, on 07881 274917 or garth.walsh@rwc.com. You can also visit the website at www.rwc.co.uk

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PRODUCT NEWS

NEW NAILS AND SCREWS BROCHURE IS PACKED FULL OF PRODUCTS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR INSTALLERS…

Simpson Strong-Tie - well fixed for fastenings

eading construction connector manufacturer, Simpson Strong-Tie has released an all-new ‘Nails and Screws’ brochure for spring 2016. Featuring a host of new products, the Nails and Screws edition consists of four sections: structural screws, corrosionresistant fastenings, Quik Drive collated screw systems and fastenings for use with construction connectors. As the range has been fully tested and CE marked, the brochure also includes mechanical properties as well as loading and performance information. Simpson Strong-Tie Sales Director, Jon Head explained, “We’ve significantly boosted our nails and screws portfolio to provide for just about every building application from steel frame construction to drywall installation. Our Nails and Screws brochure is packed with solutions to make life easier for building designers

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and installers alike – whether they work with timber, steel or concrete.” The brochure is available on request from Simpson Strong-Tie and can also be downloaded from the company website at www.strongtie.co.uk

“The range has been fully tested and CE marked.”

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COMING SOON!

NEWS

COMPANY GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH THANKS TO AMBITIIOUS STRATEGY TO DEVELOP BUSINESS FOR 21ST CENTURY...

SAM Mouldings doubles employee numbers to 180

anufacturing company, SAM Mouldings (SAM) has doubled its employee numbers in the last three years, increasing from 90 to 180 since 2013, in response to a significant upturn in demand from the construction sector. The family-run Antrim business has embarked on an ambitious Vision 2020 business strategy which will see it target a 100% increase in turnover in five years. SAM manufactures high quality MDF mouldings, including skirting and architrave, for use across the UK, Ireland and Europe. Following the launch of the innovative SAM Zero product range in 2014, the company moved to seven-day-a-week production. Additional operational improvements have enabled the company to achieve industryleading delivery times to its customers. Richard Holmes, Managing Director of SAM, said, “We have already implemented several changes in order to achieve our targets, including introducing a new marketing

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department, launching a new website, and introducing a new product development department to enable the company to react quickly to the growing opportunities within the construction sector.” Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive of Manufacturing Northern Ireland, commented, “The growth of SAM is evidence of the continued success of Richard Holmes, Managing Director, SAM Mouldings (left) with Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive, Manufacturing Northern Ireland. the local manufacturing sector. Companies such and will lead to future, long term success.” as SAM prove that we and they can take on For more information, telephone 028 and beat international competition. Their 9442 8288, e-mail nfo@sammouldings. investment in people, product and market co.uk or visit www.sammouldings.co.uk development has led to this huge growth

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BRICKS

WIENERBERGER’S TEXTURED CON MOSSO BRICK, FROM KINGSCOURT, PROVIDES EYE-CATCHING BRICKWORK SUITABLE FOR BOTH EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF A NEW MONASTERY…

New monastery in Liverpool strikes architectural high note

howcasing intricate brickwork, the new Carmelite Monastery in Liverpool boasts ethereal qualities on the outside as well as inside, giving the building an eye-catching, elegant and modern appearance rarely associated with monasteries. The unique architectural design has captured the imagination of architects across the country - so much so that it was awarded the Architect’s Choice Award at the 2013 Brick Development Awards (BDA). The brickwork itself embodies a sense

of timelessness, tradition and calmness in keeping with the monastic way of life. Indeed, this aspect of the project was specifically chosen to complement other elements of the architecture, and to continue to project a sense of both silence and light that would reflect the building’s purpose. With the monastery located in a traditional village, the use of a singular material also serves to ensure the building is coherent and expresses a sense of community appropriate to the area. In order to deliver the effect intended by

Kingscourt - Belfast 12 Herdman Channel Road, Belfast, BT3 9BL T: 028 9077 7321 - E: info@cmb.ie - www.cmb.ie

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the architect, Austin-Smith:Lord, the project required the brickwork to be delicately matched to the designs. Wienerberger’s Con Mosso brick was chosen for its soft and textured appearance, which makes it equally suitable for internal as well as external use. As such, the brick was used internally, most notably within the chapel and the cloister. On the façade, the appearance subtly changes according to the time of day and weather conditions, while the changing shape of the shadows deliberately exudes a sense of calmness and tranquillity.

Kingscourt – Dublin Unit 26, Airways Industrial Estate, Santry, Dublin 17 T: 01 842 1277 - E: info@cmb.ie - www.cmb.ie

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BRICKS

Whilst the building is modern in its expression, it also showcases a traditional monastic design in its form and layout that has successfully created a striking but harmonious transition between internal and external living. The garden is a wildlife haven, which leads through to a kitchen, garden and orchard that provides homegrown fruit and vegetables. Within the chapel interior, the headers project is at a higher level in order to break up sound reflections and maintain the peaceful atmosphere. In addition to the chapel and the cloister, the building also has a refectory, community room, library, workspaces, guest house, 24 cells, two hermitage cells and six fully accessible infirmary cells. As with everything on this project, each space was made to the highest quality, while being both comfortable and modest, befitting the Carmelite philosophy. Beyond the brickwork, the building

was recognised for its minimal energy requirements. By incorporating natural ventilation, improved insulation, maximised daylight and renewable energy - such as ground source heating pumps and solar water heating - it is able to function as a sustainable community. For centuries past, monasteries have been built of brick, and the Carmelite Monastery is no different in this respect. However, the bricks provided by Wienerberger allowed the building to deliver from both a traditional and a modern architectural aesthetic through the cumulative effect of its textured brickwork. The result was a project that Wienerberger was extremely proud to have been a part of - a building of gentle integrity, perfectly executed to provide a home for the Carmelite Sisters in Liverpool long into the future. With offices in Belfast and Dublin, Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks is a distributor of Wienerberger products in Ireland.

Wienerberger 1-5 Scullions Road, Mallusk, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, BT36 4WX. T: 028 9084 1361 www.wienerberger.co.uk

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The bricks provided by Wienerberger allowed the building to deliver from both a traditional and a modern architectural aesthetic.

Teamâ&#x20AC;Ś Project: Carmelite Monastery, Liverpool Client: Carmelite Sisters Architect: Austin-Smith:Lord Brickwork contractor: Nobles Construction Product: Con Mosso facing bricks

Building Value

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NEWS

HAGAN HOMES TO BUILD 250 HOMES IN ANTRIM Ballyclare company, Hagan Homes is to build 250 new homes at Ballygore Road, Antrim in a £30million development. Construction has already started at the 16.6-acre ‘Ballyveigh’ site and the project will take up to five years to complete. Main contractor is Claudy-based JCL Contracts. Jamesy Hagan, Managing Director, Hagan Homes, commented, “This will be the largest housing development started in Antrim in more than ten years and is a further sign of rejuvenation in the construction sector.” For further information, telephone 028 9334 2234 or visit www.haganhomes.co.uk

GILBERT-ASH A HIGH FLYER AT AER LINGUS VISCOUNT AWARDS Gilbert-Ash has lifted the award for Overall Excellence at the 2016 Aer Lingus Viscount Awards in London. The awards celebrate the best of indigenous businesses. Ray Hutchinson, Managing Director of Gilbert Ash, said, “This year has been very exciting for the company. We substantially increased our workforce in 2015, a decision which was driven by a series of high-profile contract wins across the UK. We successfully increased our turnover

in 2015 to £115million, and are on target to achieve a turnover of over £160million in 2016. “Recently we took the strategic decision to target projects that would allow us to make use of our expertise and experience to sustain our plans for continual growth and we anticipate this will lead to further wins in the coming year.” For more information, telephone 028 9066 4334 or visit the website at www.gilbert-ash.com

ESF WINS SMALL BUSINESS EXPORTER OF THE YEAR AWARD Newtownabbey-based company, Environmental Street Furniture (ESF) has been crowned 2016 Small Business Exporter of the Year at the recent Business Eye First Trust Small Business Awards. ESF took the award in recognition of its excellent success over the last 12 months in supplying into 10 new export countries with new clients which included McDonalds and the National Theatre. For more information, visit www.worldofesf.com or telephone 0845 606 6095.

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Pictured (from left) are Jim Burke, Director of Sales and Land Acquisitions, Hagan Homes; Jamesy Hagan, Managing Director, Hagan Homes; and James McLaughlin, Managing Director, JCL Contracts, the main contractor for the project.

LOCAL CONSTRUCTION SECTOR TO GET FREE QUALIFICATIONS Two hundred NVQ qualifications are to be made available free of charge to the local construction sector through the extension of the ‘Qualifying the Existing Workforce’ project. This project is a joint initiative by the Department for the Economy (DfE), CITB NI and the Joint Council for the Building & Civil Engineering Industry. Nine assessment centres have been awarded the contract to qualify and assess the candidates across the Province. There are 45 occupations available, ranging from bricklaying to wall and floor tiling. This scheme is open to private sector construction employers. Candidates must live and work in the UK to be eligible and must not have an existing Level 2 qualification. For full details on how to register and a list of assessment centres and occupations available, log onto www.citbni.org.uk and follow the links to free NVQs or call 028 9082 5466.

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P&H AWARDS 2016

Ryan Handley, Handley Heating receives the Domestic Project of the Year Award for the company’s work on the Chester Terrace project in London from Catherine Russell of sponsors, Vaillant.

Willie Moffitt, Moffit & Robinson Construction, receives the Green Technology Project of the Year Award, for the company's work at Corick House, from Declan Small of sponsors, BSS.

Robert Hall, Harvey Group, is presented with the Commercial Project of the Year Award, for the company's project at Queen's University, by Shaun Foster of sponsors, Potterton Commercial.

Staff from the Harvey Group celebrate a double success at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2016, where the company won the Commercial Project of the Year Award with company founder, Brian Harvey (centre) receiving the Overall Achievement Award.

PLUMBING AND HEATING INDUSTRY’S LEADING INSTALLERS, CONTRACTORS, MERCHANTS, PEOPLE, PROJECTS AND PRODUCTS ARE RECOGNISED AT GALA AWARDS NIGHT…

A night of excellence for the plumbing and heating industry

H Alison Stevenson, Maurice Stevenson Ltd, received the Highly Commended award in the Commercial Contractor of the Year category from Billy Ritchie of sponsors, Pegler Yorkshire.

Gary Hanna, Hanna Mechanical Services, receives the Commercial Contractor of the Year Award from Billy Ritchie of sponsors, Pegler Yorkshire.

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arvey Group secured a double success at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing & Heating Awards 2016 in Belfast as the industry celebrated the best projects, people and projects. Company founder, Brian Harvey, received the night’s main award when he was presented with the Overall Achievement Award after the judges recognised him as someone who best exemplifies the dedication to the pursuit of excellence in the plumbing and heating industry in Northern Ireland. Harvey Group was also rewarded for its work at the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute of Experimental Medicine for Queen’s University Belfast, winning the Commercial Project of the Year title. In this category JBE Mechanical Electrical received a Highly Commended Award for the company’s work on Lews Castle. The Commercial Heating Contractor of the Year was named as Hanna Mechanical, with Maurice Stevenson Ltd receiving a highly commended award.

The competitive Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year category saw Bassetts win the top title for the third year in a row with PTS winning the Customer Service Award and Beggs & Partners named as the Best Family/ Independent Merchant. The Domestic Project of the Year went to Handley Heating for its work at Chester Terrace in London while the Green Technology Project was the extension at Corick House Hotel by Moffitt & Robinson Construction. With a record number of entries, this’s year’s independent panel of judges faced the daunting task of selecting the winners from an exceptional list of applications. “These awards were established to recognise the excellence within the plumbing and heating industry and a look at not only the winners, but those who received a highly commended award or made the final shortlist proves the high standards within this sector – standards that I’m sure architects and building contractors will appreciate.”

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P&H AWARDS 2016

Colum Sheppard JBE Mechanical Electrical receives the Highly Commended Award in the Commercial Project of the Year category from Shaun Foster of sponsors, Potterton Commercial.

Bassetts celebrate a hat-trick of winning the Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year title.

Richard Robinson, Beggs & Partners, receiving the Best Family/Independent Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year Award from Mark Eccles of sponsors, Grant.

Niall Dolan, Warmflow, is presented with the Energy Efficient Product of the Year Award for the Ground Source Heat Pump by Ian Megahey of sponsors, WorkPal Software Solutions.

Stuart Harron, Reliance Worldwide Corporation, receives the Highly Commended award in the Innovative Product of the Year category, from Jonathan Martindale of sponsors, Phoenix Natural Gas.

Award winners… Overall Achievement Award • Brian Harvey, Harvey Group plc Plumbers’ Merchant of the Year • Winner - Bassetts • Best Customer Service - PTS • Best Family/Independent winner – Beggs & Partners • Best Family/Independent Highly Commended – Kildress Plumbing Suppliers Commercial Contractor of the Year • Winner – Hanna Mechanical • Highly Commended – Maurice Stevenson Ltd Domestic Oil Contractor of the Year • Winner – CTS Projects • Highly Commended – O’Kane Plumbing & Electrical

Commercial Project of the Year • Winner – Harvey Group for Queen’s University Belfast • Highly Commended – JBE Mechanical Electrical for Lews Castle Green Technology Project of the Year • Winner – Moffitt & Robsinson Construction for Corick House • Highly Commended – Thomas Hanna for Crest Pavilion Innovative Product of the Year • Winner – Grant for Grant Vortexair • Highly Commended – Reliance Worldwide Corporation (UK) for Radiance Thermal Interface Units Energy Efficient Product of the Year • Winner – Warmflow for their Ground Source Heat Pump • Highly Commended – OkoTech for Heatboss

Domestic Gas Contractor of the Year • Winner – GT Gas Works • Highly Commended - Safegas NI Ltd

Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year • Winner – George McGuire, Pegler Yorkshire • Highly Commended – Mark Eccles, Grant Engineering and Trevor Beggs, Glen Dimplex NI

Domestic Oil Installer of the Year • Winner – David Lindsay Plumbing & Heating • Highly Commended - V&J Harness P&H

Best Marketing Campaign • Winner – Grant for Think Boilers, Think Grant • Highly Commended – Beam for Beam Vacuum & Ventilation

Domestic Gas Installer of the Year • Winner – Stephen Meneely Plumbing and Gas Ltd • Highly Commended - V&J Harness P&H

Apprentice of the Year • Special Recognition Award – Gary Doyle for his Gold medal success at WorldSkills in Brazil • Winner – Aaron Corr, Dowds Group • Highly Commended – Maitiu Cole, CTS Projects

Domestic Project of the Year • Winner – Handley Heating Services for Chester Terrace, London • Highly Commended – Quinn Mechanical Services for Grillagh Water House

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Unsung Hero • George Nelson, Nelson Heating and Des Keenan, Kildress Plumbing Suppliers

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TOOLS

DRAPER TOOLS INTRODUCES A POWERFUL NEW M CLASS, WET AND DRY VACUUM CLEANER TO HELP KEEP YOU SAFE AND PROTECTED ON THE JOB…

Reduce exposure to dangerous dust with a Draper Expert M class vacuum

eeping you protected from dangerous dusts, Draper Tools has introduced a powerful new M Class, wet and dry vacuum cleaner to its Expert range. The Draper Expert 35L 1200W 230V M class wet and dry vacuum cleaner removes 99.9% of dust particles passing through its filter and is ideal for a range of trade applications. The Health and Safety Executive recommends M Class vacuums for on-tool dust extraction, especially where dust with crystalline silica is produced. An M Class vacuum is generally the recommended filtration for non-carcinogenic materials with occupational exposure levels greater than 0.1mg per cubed meter. These materials include wood dust, paint, plastics, metal, paper and textiles, among others. The new cleaner from Draper is manufactured to fully comply with the ‘M’ class standard and is packed with impressive features to deliver enhanced performance and user experience, such as the low 68-decibel noise level, 35L capacity, powerful Amiteck motor and full bag indicator. Each vacuum is also fitted with an auto start/stop 230V plug socket, which automatically switches off and on by use of the power tools on/off button. You get a comprehensive range of accessories with the new Draper Expert 35L 1200W 230V M class too. These include a cartridge filter, foam filter, three paper dust bags, a three-metre flexible hose with hand grip and air control, two extension tubes, a floor brush, crevice nozzle and a carpet attachment with fluid insert. To find out more, telephone 023 8049 4333 or visit www.drapertools.com

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