PCE June-July 25

TOUGH JOBS DEMAND TOUGH TRUCKS. MAN TGS.

From 18 to 50 tonnes, MAN TGS trucks are built for the toughest construction jobs, combining reliability, performance, and durability. Powered by fuel-efficient, high-torque engines and available with two to five axles, they offer tailored load capacities, wheelbases, and frame overhangs to suit any task.

NEWS

06 CITB’s Employer Networks

Helped 50,000 - plus learners access construction training

14 Utility Machines fuel further growth at McHale Plant Sales

17 Finning UK & Ireland’s Parker Anderson retires after 50-year career

70 Eurofab exported one of the largest storage vessels manufactured in Northern Ireland

76 New Bobcat track loaders and graders at ECL Civil Engineering

78 A Develon DX62R mini-excavator has prepared a coastal resort for summer

FROM THE DESK OF

25 Gordon Best, Regional Director, MPANI

Golda Burrows General Sales Manager

Sarah Nelson Editor

Martin Elliman General Manager

Joel Byers Production Manager

Catherine Bulling Accounts Administration

Helen Beggs Chief Operating Officer

Plant & Civil Engineer is Published by: 4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE

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62 Karen McShane, Past President, CIHT

comment

Welcome to the June-July edition of Plant & Civil Engineer – and what an exciting, important issue it is!

BUILDING TOWARDS NET ZERO

27 How R Heatrick Ltd is driving innovation in waste recovery

30 Behind Merlo’s sustainability mindset

44 Invest NI is helping firms seize opportunities in the green economy

46 Numac introduces eco-conscious waste compactor

54 Pat O’Donnell & Co. have been on a determined net zero journey

SALES AND SERVICES

105 Plant sales

108 Buyers’ guide

2025 PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER AWARDS

83 Has your team entered yet?

From social media threads to newspaper headlines, the path to net zero is a journey that is rightfully driving significant dialogue and change. This is particularly the case in the construction, recycling and quarry sectors where minimising environmental impact and supporting a sustainable future are being ushered in as considerations more than ever before, as those on the frontlines seek to incorporate the reduction of emissions and promotion of eco-friendly building practices into their projects where possible.

Admittedly, it is a long-distance journey and we have a stretch still to go, but it doesn’t mean that we haven’t progressed far beyond the starting line. This is especially the case in our sectors, where net zero milestones are being realised every day, be it internal shifts to operations, or external offerings to customers.

To tie in with Net Zero Week in July, our special ‘building towards net zero’ feature is shedding light on the remarkable eco-conscious work being carried out across the sectors, as well as tapping into the improvements which are yet to be attained. This edition’s Cole Groundwork Contracts cover story is a shining example of sustainability – find out how the company has been cultivating a future-proof environment for generations to come.

Just some of the other net zero inspiration which you can draw from this issue include the breakthrough in the production of low carbon concrete, Ulster Shredders’ installation of a 40kW solar panel system, how Invest NI is empowering businesses to focus on green, and many more net zero focus pieces. We’re also thrilled to reveal that we will be threading our transitioning to net zero focus throughout our subsequent issues too. Please get in touch if you would like to highlight your own achievements in the sustainability realm.

Elsewhere in this month’s instalment, don’t miss out on our plant hire feature, expert columnists’ insights, news stories, and Plant & Civil Engineer Awards details, including our brand new category – Transitioning Towards Net Zero. Enter now if you haven’t already!

I do hope you enjoy the read, and remember that you can remain on the pulse of the profession’s news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.plantandcivilengineer.com. Our free weekly newsletter is also distributed every Tuesday – subscribe on our website now if you haven’t already.

See you next issue!

Sarah Nelson Editor

Email: pceeditor@4squaremedia.net

M: 07789 756 815

DRIVING LONG-TERM TRUCK PERFORMANCE: HOW TO MAXIMISE ADT EFFICIENCY

Maximising uptime and minimising costs are essential when managing an articulated dump truck (ADT) fleet. Here, Scott Pollock, Senior Product Manager for ADT manufacturer, Rokbak, shares strategies – from smarter maintenance and operator training, to cuttingedge on-board technologies – that help boost efficiency, cut expenses, keep your haulers moving, and leave you stress-free. Maximising productivity, minimising downtime, and delivering lasting value, is the name of the game when it comes to Rokbak haulers. In today’s competitive industrial landscape, articulated haulers are expected to do more than move material. They must operate efficiently, reliably and safely for the long haul. At Rokbak, the focus is not just on manufacturing our robust RA30 and RA40 trucks, but on helping customers get the most out of them throughout their operational life.

EFFICIENCY STARTS WITH PROACTIVE MAINTENANCE

Unplanned breakdowns are a costly disruption in any fleet. The best defence against them is a solid strategy for planned, proactive maintenance. This goes far beyond routine filter and oil changes. Rokbak encourages regular inspections that can catch issues early – from worn suspension to minor leaks that could become major headaches. Like a good vehicle check-up, effective servicing looks for both current faults and potential problems on the horizon. A vigilant approach to diagnostics and servicing can keep trucks on-site and earning, rather than waiting on repairs. No truck is better than the person operating it. Well-trained operators not only maintain productivity, but the health of the hauler itself. Pre-start checks, basic diagnostics and awareness of operational anomalies make all the difference.

That’s why Rokbak invests in training programmes that empower operators and service personnel. When everyone understands the ‘why’ behind truck care, the result is longerlasting equipment and a safer, more efficient worksite.

BUILT-IN INTELLIGENCE PROTECTS INVESTMENT

Today’s articulated haulers are smarter than ever. Rokbak integrates automation and safety features that actively prevent misuse and mechanical stress. Technologies, such as anti-tip body controls and downhill retardation systems, protect the hauler and the operator.

Load monitoring and productivity tracking also ensure trucks are operating within their optimal range, saving fuel, reducing wear and avoiding costly errors. These built-in tools support smarter, more cost-effective operation.

Every Rokbak articulated hauler comes fitted with Haul Track as standard – an intuitive telematics system that gives fleet managers real-time access to vital performance data. This connected technology uses on-board diagnostics, GPS and wireless communication to track and improve truck performance across multiple sites. From any internet-connected device, fleet managers can monitor fuel consumption, idle time and machine usage. This helps them develop more effective maintenance schedules, reduce operating costs and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Maintenance alerts and fleet activity reports highlight potential issues before they become downtime-inducing problems. Haul Track also helps identify operational inefficiencies. By detecting patterns like harsh braking or excessive idling, it

allows for corrective actions, such as targeted operator training or rerouting – improving driving habits, protecting uptime and extending machine lifespan.

BEST FIT FORWARD: USE GENUINE PARTS

Using non-OEM components might save money in the shortterm but often leads to longterm losses. Rokbak haulers are designed with precision, and only genuine parts offer the fit, compatibility and tested durability the trucks demand. Every part plays a role in maintaining uptime and performance. By using OEM-approved components, operators gain the assurance of full compatibility with the truck’s systems and sensors. Understanding that no two job sites are alike, Rokbak works closely with a global dealer network to tailor parts strategies and service support for each application – whether it’s a construction site in America or a quarry in Australia. Rokbak parts availability planning and regional stocking strategies ensures fast response when customers need it most. Strong local support, combined with a robust global network, is key to keeping haulers running and delivering value.

EFFICIENCY IS A TEAM EFFORT

Ultimately, achieving long-term ADT efficiency is not about a single factor – it’s a combination of great equipment, smart technology, reliable parts and, most importantly, skilled and committed people.

At Rokbak, there is a focus on this full ecosystem because we know that our customers depend on it. By partnering closely with operators, technicians, customers and dealers, we’re helping to ensure that every Rokbak hauler delivers maximum productivity, minimal downtime and lasting value.

For more information, visit www.rokbak.com

Rokbak Senior Product Manager, Scott Pollock.

Joanna Oliver MBE Steps Down After 30 Years with the CEA

The end of an important chapter at the Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has been marked, with Joanna Oliver MBE completing her final day with the association after 30 years of service.

Joanna has played a central role in the CEA’s activities over the last three decades –shaping the export programme, contributing to the launch of events, including PlantWorx and Futureworx, and working with government and industry stakeholders. Recognised for her knowledge of international trade and policy, she has supported members across the sector and represented UK manufacturers around the world.

Joanna joined the CEA in the mid-1990s and became a key

contact for export-related matters. During her time with the association, she helped deliver numerous trade missions and UK Pavilions at international exhibitions, including bauma, Conexpo, BICES and M&T Expo.

Joanna was also part of the original PlantWorx project team and, more recently, helped launch Futureworx. She was awarded an MBE in 2011 by Queen Elizabeth II for services to the construction equipment sector and international trade.

Although Joanna has stepped down from her role at the CEA, she continues to work with AMPS and will be involved in PlantWorx 2025. She also plans to provide consultancy support to businesses using her experience in trade and policy.

Joanna reflected: “To borrow a line from a country song: ‘Don’t blink 30 years go by faster than you think.’ That couldn’t be more true of my time with the CEA. When I joined back in 1995, I was entirely new to both construction equipment and running UK Pavilions.

“Looking back, I’m struck by how much I’ve learned—not just about organising events, but about people, resilience and embracing challenges head-on. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve loved nearly every minute of it.

“To my friends across this remarkable industry – especially those who’ve travelled the world with me to some of the more ‘interesting’ corners of the globe – thank you. The memories we’ve made, the

challenges we’ve faced, the whisky we’ve drunk and the laughs we’ve shared mean more to me than I can say.

“Here’s to more adventures and more memories. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”

CITB’s Employer Networks helped

50,000-

plus learners access construction training

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has released its year-end figures for its Employer Networks initiative. It was the second full year of operation for the initiative, and figures demonstrate that the networks supported 50,966 learners in the financial year 2024-to-2025 – an increase from 11,468 the previous, inaugural year. The figures also reveal that in the financial year 2024-to-2025, Employer Networks supported:

• 4,097 employers – an increase from 1,284 the previous year

• 2,655 of the employers supported are small and micro

• 26 per cent of the employers supported had not claimed grant in the past 12 months

Employer Networks are an initiative set up and funded by CITB that offer bespoke, easy-to-access training and financial support for employers. They give employers a direct channel to communicate their training needs and advise on how funding should be prioritised and allocated in their local area. Additionally, they enable CITB to be more responsive to industry needs on both regional and national levels.

There is huge demand for skilled construction workers in the UK, with CITB’s Construction Skills Network report forecasting the need for over 250,000 new construction workers by 2028.

Deb Madden, Executive Director for Nations Engagement, CITB, commented: “It’s vital we have a firm grasp of what skills are required and where they’re needed

across the country. Employer Networks are designed to make the training and skills system easier to navigate for employers, in turn helping to address the skills gap.

“Our latest Employer Networks figures prove the initiative has been hugely successful, and we look forward to building on this success and continue providing much-needed access to training for more employers and learners.

“There is an increasing demand for construction work in the UK, and construction employers are clearly aware of the opportunity and the need for training, with 80 per cent of employers indicating they plan to increase their training efforts in the future. We’re always striving to improve our services and embed a culture of quality into what we do – Employer Networks are a prime example of this.”

Joanna Oliver MBE.

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John Paul Construction Saves 66,926kg of Emissions and Over €18,000 in Fuel Costs by Using Aggreko Hybrid Power Solution

A partnership between John Paul Construction and temporary energy solutions provider Aggreko has successfully achieved savings of over 66,000kg in carbon emissions and 20,357 litres of fuel at a prominent Galway construction site.

In early 2024, the industry-leading construction company was appointed as the main contractor for a Galway construction project. Having developed a close working relationship since 2020, John Paul Construction reached out to the team at Aggreko to seek their insight on integrating a decentralised energy solution.

The project required power for both a tower crane and site lighting. While a standard 250 kVA / 320 kVA generator would typically be able to support the site’s power demands, Aggreko’s goal of delivering greater efficiencies to customers and John Paul Construction’s ambition to reduce carbon emissions led to a low-carbon solution.

To reduce the environmental impact of the project, Aggreko suggested a hybrid system using a 125 kVA generator alongside a 150/75 kWh battery which provided an 700amp pass through current to allow for the impact motor start. This would allow the site’s energy requirements to be met, while also offering scalability in line with varying load demands, and even periods of zero-emissions power when the battery was operating independently.

To prove its capabilities, Aggreko tested the package at its site in Dublin for two weeks. The test package demonstrated that both the necessary power and the desired outcome was achievable, encouraging John Paul Construction to use the solution for the duration of the project – 201 days.

After being installed at the Galway site in August 2024, the battery and generator delivered a consistent power supply until the completion of the project in February 2025. During this time, the generator came on at 6am for a maximum of three hours to give the battery a boost and ran for a maximum of three hours at night so that it could recharge. This all resulted in John Paul Construction achieving a weekly emission reduction of 2,342 kg per week alongside a fuel saving of 712 litres. This is the equivalent to a weekly fuel cost saving of at least €600 euros.

Pat Enright, Sector Sales at Aggreko Ireland, said: “The construction industry is increasingly needing to balance power requirements with cost efficiencies and sustainability targets to reduce the environmental impact of the sector. We knew when John Paul Construction approached us that finding a low-carbon solution was a must, so our team set out to identify an alternative to a standard generator that could limit emissions and save on fuel. Our solution, a hybrid battery system, allowed John Paul Construction to incorporate its sustainability values into the Galway project.”

Schneider Electric Appoints Jacqui Whitaker as VP of Finance, UK and Ireland to Drive Growth and Sustainability

Schneider Electric, a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has appointed Jacqui Whitaker as its new Vice President of Finance, UK and Ireland (UKI).

Jacqui will lead the UKI finance team, focusing on maximising investment returns, supporting growth opportunities, and driving forward Schneider Electric’s broader sustainability goals.

She steps into the role with nearly a decade of international experience with Schneider Electric, having led the international business finance function across 100+ countries in South America, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. Her business and commercial focus, coupled with expertise in dealing with hyperinflation and foreign exchange instability, have equipped her with the resilience and scenario planning skills necessary to navigate the current UKI

market. Prior to Schneider Electric, Jacqui held leadership roles at Eurostar in the UK. Speaking about her appointment, Jacqui Whitaker, Schneider Electric’s Vice President of Finance for UKI said: “Schneider Electric has a mature and very successful business here, but I am looking forward to finding additional growth opportunities and making it operate even more effectively as the demand for clean energy increases in the region.”

BAM Connects Communities to Inspire Engineering Careers and Celebrate Narrow Water Bridge

BAM, the main contractor for the landmark Narrow Water Bridge project, has brought together 148 pupils from four local primary schools across the Irish border to take part in The Big Bridge – an educational initiative designed to inspire the next generation of engineers.

As part of the event, pupils collaborated to build a 13-metre cable-stayed bridge, providing a fun and engaging hands-on experience that introduced them to the world of engineering and construction.

Organised in partnership with the Narrow Water Bridge Community Network, Louth County Council, Roughan & O’Donovan and social enterprise, The Big Bridge, the initiative aims to spark interest in STEM subjects among young people, while celebrating the transformative vision of Narrow Water Bridge. A vision, which is already becoming a reality – not only through construction, but through the communities it connects.

Once complete the Narrow Water Bridge will span 195 metres, offering sustainable transport options for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.

The schools – St Dallan’s and Dromore Road Primary School in Warrenpoint, and Scoil Naomh Lorcan and Scoil Naomh Bríd in Omeath – worked in mixed teams to construct the model bridge, sparking curiosity, confidence and cooperation. Pupils also learned about the historical significance of Narrow Water and the future potential of the landmark 195metre bridge being constructed across Carlingford Lough.

Speaking about the event, William Diver, Construction Director from BAM, said: “We are proud to partner with The Big Bridge to bring this innovative learning opportunity directly to schools. The Narrow Water Bridge is the flagship project of the Shared Island Fund, and our goal is to ensure that it delivers lasting social value

beyond the build. By engaging young people in STEM and construction, we are investing in the workforce of tomorrow. We thank all participating schools for embracing this initiative.”

Amy Dillon, Principal Engineer at Design ID and Project Director of The Big Bridge, added: “We’re passionate about helping young people experience the creativity, teamwork and problem-solving that underpin engineering. Through this workshop, we’re not only building bridgesthey’re discovering the wide range of careers that bring major infrastructure projects like Narrow Water to life.”

David Jones, Director of Services, Louth County Council, also commented: “The Narrow Water Bridge is a landmark project that symbolises connection, and

Record Delivery of Bobcat Excavators and Loaders

Bobcat CZ, a.s., the exclusive distributor of Bobcat machines in the Czech Republic, has announced the delivery of another 80 excavators and eight skid-steer loaders to Stavebniny DEK a.s. At DEK rental stores, domestic customers can now choose from more than 550 Bobcat machines.

Stavebniny DEK a.s. is currently focusing (within the Bobcat machine portfolio) primarily on expanding its fleet of mini excavators, which are among the very popular machines in its rental stores. The total of 80 Bobcat excavators in this delivery covers weight categories from one to five tonne including the E10z (30 units), E19 (30 units), E35z and E55z (both 10 units).

The mini excavators will be supplemented by eight new S650 skid-steer loaders.

“The rental segment remains a priority for us. We have been cooperating with Stavebniny DEK for many years. The repeated interest in Bobcat machines confirms the renowned quality of our service network across the entire Czech Republic. The current trend is the supply of machines with powertilts, which we supply for all machines from the E19 model upwards,” said Vladimír Hes, Sales Director of Bobcat CZ.

the Big Bridge workshop is a brilliant example of how major infrastructure can also deliver real educational and community value. By capturing the students’ interest in engineering and construction, we’re not only building a bridge, but we’re also hopefully building future careers and strengthening crossborder relationships that will last for generations to come.”

“Borders divide, bridges bring people together,” said Jim Boylan, Chairman of the NWBCN, a local community group based in Warrenpoint, which has campaigned for many years for the bridge.

“The number one objective of our campaign was to unite communities around the Lough. It was truly inspirational to see children from both traditions and both sides of the border coming together so easily to build a bridge. The real bridge, of course will transform these children’s lives, creating opportunities denied to previous generations.”

The Narrow Water Bridge project is being delivered by BAM on behalf of Louth County Council, designed by Roughan & O’Donovan and funded by the Irish government under the Shared Island Fund.

The Big Bridge is a not-for-profit social enterprise operating across Northern Ireland and Ireland. Its mission is to deliver memorable STEM experiences to schools, showcasing the realworld application of construction and engineering in a fun, inclusive and impactful way.

Stavebniny DEK a.s. has many years of experience with Bobcat machines and Bobcat CZ a.s. service, and has been purchasing them regularly since 2017. The current fleet of Bobcat machines, including the latest delivery, includes 444 mini excavators (E19/E35/E35z/E50/E55z/E85 models) and 117 skid-steer loaders (S530/S650).

Within the scope of this order, Stavebniny DEK a.s. relies on proven machines from the output of the Czech Bobcat factory in Dobríš, where the majority of production for the European market has been manufactured for more than 20 years. The location of the Bobcat regional headquarters in the Czech Republic is a clear advantage for customers – the machines are developed here to meet the requirements of not only Czech, but also all European customers.

148 pupils from four local primary schools across the Irish border have taken part in The Big Bridge.

Pushing boundaries

Powered by the latest Stage V engines to give class-leading pushing capability combined with low fuel burn, Generation 8 dozers are engineered for efficiency. There’s a wide choice of blades, a unique tilting cab for easy servicing, and a new-look cab providing outstanding comfort and great views to blade and ripper.

Operators - need a little help? We offer Free Grade, Definition Grade or optional 3D Grade Assistance systems as well as optional factory fitted, GPS preparation for all popular systems.

It’s a Liebherr. Job done.

The Generation 8 Liebherr dozers

From Dirt Movers to Dust Busters: Rokbak ADTs

Power New Water Truck Line

As jobsites grow in size and environmental regulations tighten, the need for adaptable, heavyduty equipment in the US is clearer than ever. That’s where a new venture between Hydex and Hills Machinery is stepping in with a solution that pairs proven articulated hauler performance with serious dust suppression capability.

At the core is a new water truck range. Rokbak RA30 and RA40 articulated dump trucks (ADTs) are being upfitted with high-performance water tanks to be deployed across quarries, mines and infrastructure projects under the Hydex banner.

A Platform Built For More

The RA30 and RA40 are no strangers to tough jobsite conditions. Built in Motherwell, Scotland and part of the Volvo Group, Rokbak trucks are engineered for power, control and reliability in the harshest off-road environments.

However, their latest application showcases a new kind of versatility. The RA30, with its

370-horsepower engine, now carries a 6,000 gallon or 22,712.47 litre (AWT6) water tank, while the 444-horsepower RA40 is matched with a 9,000 gallon or 34,068.71 litre (AWT9) tank – both equipped with advanced spray and pumping systems for highperformance water distribution.

“This is about using a proven platform to meet a pressing and growing need,” said Robert Franklin, Director of Sales – Americas at Rokbak.

“The RA30 and RA40 give contractors the power, manoeuvrability and durability they need in a base machine –and now, with this adaptation, we’re showing just how far that platform can go.”

A Partnership With Practical Purpose

The idea to repurpose articulated haulers as water trucks came from the ground up – quite literally. Hills Machinery, a longtime Rokbak dealer based in North Carolina, saw firsthand how contractors were searching for tough, reliable machines that could do more than haul.

“We work with Rokbak on a daily basis and believe those to be the best two trucks to outfit these tanks with,” says Jim Hills, president of Hills Machinery and Hydex. “But we also recognise that some contractors will want to keep their fleet standardised so we’re happy to work with everyone to solve their dust suppression and water access needs.”

Hydex is supporting the rollout through Hills’ existing dealership network, with upfitting taking place at a joint facility in Seattle, Washington, and distribution coordinated through Hill’s location in Wilson, North Carolina. Each truck is backed by Hills Machinery’s Uptime Operations service, which includes lifecycle fleet management, real-time equipment monitoring and pre-stocked replacement parts – minimising downtime as trucks hit jobsites.

Engineered To Adapt

The tanks themselves are engineered to meet demanding performance specs. Water is shot from an Americanmade Elkhart water cannon to

distances of over 213 ft, while operators can adjust pressure to 320, 480 or 630 gallons per minute. Multiple spray bars and nozzles – including vertical, side, front bumper and rear dribble – offer complete customisation depending on site needs.

A rear-mounted electric hose reel, American-made Berkeley hydraulic water pump and optional suction system for drawing water from lakes or reservoirs round out the functionality.

“These tanks are serious pieces of equipment in their own right,” said Jim. “But what makes them truly effective is the machine underneath – the Rokbak hauler that keeps everything moving and delivers the power, even in the roughest terrain.”

Meeting The Moment

Dust suppression isn’t just a jobsite concern – it’s a growing regulatory issue in many jurisdictions, particularly in states such as California, Texas and Arizona, where construction activity is booming in arid environments. Add to that the increasing size and activity level of quarries and mines, and the demand for large-capacity, offroad water trucks is rising fast.

With their articulated frame, powerful drivetrains and operator-friendly design, Rokbak trucks offer a more robust and stable solution than conventional rigid-frame water trucks – especially when offroad capability is a must.

As Hydex scales production and more water trucks hit the field, all eyes will be on how this versatile solution might open the door for further adaptations of the Rokbak platform. From fuel and lubrication service units to emergency response and haul support, the articulated hauler’s future may be even more diverse than its past.

“We’re just getting started,” Jim said.

“When you’ve got a reliable chassis and a clear market need, the opportunities are endless.”

Develon Strengthens Customer-Centric Services in Europe with New Parts Distribution Centre

Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has officially opened its new Parts Distribution Centre (PDC) in Boom in Belgium, marking a major step in its strategy to enhance customer service and accelerate growth in the European market. The inauguration ceremony for the new PDC was attended by Develon CEO, Seung-Hyun Oh, key customers, logistics partners, and other distinguished guests.

In his keynote speech, CEO Seung-Hyun Oh stated: “The opening of our Belgium PDC represents a critical first step in our customerand market-oriented strategy. It is a strategic investment to deliver faster, more stable and

more responsive services for our valued European customers.”

Since the establishment of the first Europe-based operation in the UK in 1994, Develon continues to build on this and expand its presence in the European market, with the region now serving as a vital hub for technological innovation and sustainable growth. The company previously operated a PDC in Germany, which played a key role in improving its on-time delivery rate and logistics efficiency.

With a storage area of 24,000 m² and an inventory of 47,000 stock units, the new Belgium PDC is designed to bring services closer to customers and to allow Develon to respond more swiftly to diverse and evolving demands in the European construction equipment market. With improved supply chain optimisation and increased speed of parts delivery, the centre is expected to significantly enhance customer satisfaction and strengthen competitiveness for both Develon and its clients.

The Belgium facility will be operated in partnership with Fiege, a leading logistics provider with a long-standing relationship with the Develon range. Leveraging Fiege’s deep expertise and innovative logistics solutions, the new PDC aims to deliver exceptional service quality and reinforce customer loyalty across the continent. In line with Develon’s commitment to sustainability, the Belgium PDC was built with energy-efficient infrastructure and incorporates low-carbon operational practices. This reflects the company’s broader mission to pursue growth while fulfilling its environmental and social responsibilities.

Utility Machines fuel further growth at McHale Plant Sales

A rise in demand for what Komatsu calls ‘utility machines’ is being reported by its distributor in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales.

Machines sheltering under that generic description include the micro-mini-midi size diggers and compact-size wheeled excavators popular among utility services providers and plant hire renters for whom the ‘shorthire, call-and-collect rental and DIY markets are paramount’.

Among Komatsu’s extensive portfolio, units classified within the segment are its PC 09, PC 16, PC 26, PC 33, PC 55 and PC 80 units.

Major deals that have raised its share of this important market sector include what McHale Plant Sales Director, Denis McGrath, calls “multiple

unit deliveries to customers, such as Kilkenny’s Total Highway Maintenance, Limerick’s Treaty Plant Hire, and Ballina-based plant rental specialist, Davy Tool Hire.”

Explaining its surge in sales, McGrath said: “in addition to a naturally arising growth in demand, the trend towards ‘contracting out’ by local authorities; gas, electricity and alternative energy suppliers,

and by major computer, communications and broadcast services providers has increased purchasing and rental activity.”

“Another explanation can be found in an increasing tendency on the part of ‘big plant users’ to include compact-size diggers in its inventory, there to perform minor ‘project finishing’ and final surface dressing, landscaping, rectification, and small-scale ‘second-thoughts’ applications,” he added.

Looking ahead, McGrath forecasts a ‘continuance’ of demand at the entry level.

“Echoing Komatsu’s own determination to build a bigger presence in the sector, helped by further upgrading, increases in specifications, and competitive pricing, we in McHale Plant Sales are placing even greater focus on this important segment, encouraged by feedback from the market generally, and the guidance of some of our committed customers,” McGrath said.

Uisce Éireann Launches New Advanced Water Stewardship Programme

Uisce Éireann, in partnership with Water Stewardship Ireland and the Sustainable Enterprise Skillnet, has launched a new Advanced Water Stewardship Programme, now open to all trade effluent business customers.

This fully-funded training initiative is designed to support businesses in addressing trade effluent and water quality challenges, while also helping them prepare for upcoming regulatory changes and develop strategies to manage trade effluent charges effectively.

With water quality and sustainability becoming increasingly vital in today’s regulatory and operational landscape, this new programme offers direct, site-focused support. It empowers businesses to take proactive measures that protect water quality, lower operational costs, and enhance sustainability credentials. Programme benefits include:

• Protect water quality –gain practical training on improving water quality and implementing sitespecific actions that drive behavioural change

• Monetary cost savings – develop proactive strategies to mitigate future trade effluent charges

• Reputational benefits –stay ahead of evolving water-related reporting

requirements and strengthen your sustainability credentials

• Environmental impact –add a meaningful green initiative to your sustainability goals, reducing your environmental footprint The programme is delivered through a series of expert-led workshops. All participants will also create a Water Charter for their site – a tailored plan that identifies key risks and solutions, maps drainage and water use,

and supports reduction, reuse, and restoration of water on-site.

Geoffrey Bourke, Head of Customer Operations at Uisce Éireann, welcomed the new programme: “We are delighted to support our trade effluent customers and do our part to enhance water quality and protect the environment. At Uisce Éireann, we are responsible for the delivery of secure, safe and sustainable water services for the people of Ireland. This programme helps us to attain our vision of a sustainable Ireland where water is respected and protected for the planet and all the lives it supports.”

The Sustainable Enterprise Skillnet is co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and network companies. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. For more information and to register, visit www.water.ie/advancedws.

L-R: Padraig Nolan, Facilities & Environmental Manager at Mondelez Ireland; Geoffrey Bourke, Head of Customer Operations at Uisce Éireann; and Ken Stockil, CEO, 20FIFTY Partners.

COMBILIFT AND CMETB CELEBRATE

10 YEARS OF PIONEERING ENGINEERING TRAINEESHIP

A landmark celebration at Combilift’s global headquarters in Monaghan has occurred, marking the 10th anniversary of the highly-successful OEM Engineering Traineeship – a collaborative initiative between Combilift and the Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB).

The event, which welcomed past graduates, current trainees and local educators, underscored the programme’s evolution from a local skills initiative to a cornerstone of regional industrial development.

Launched in 2015, the OEM Engineering Traineeship was born from a shared vision to tackle the skills gap in engineering and manufacturing with an industryled approach. Today, with over 150 trainees having passed through its doors to achieve a QQI level 5 qualification, and with job placement rates above

80 per cent, the programme stands as a model for how industry and education can collaborate to mutual benefit.

Combilift, a global leader in materials-handling solutions, has been central to this success.

As the primary industry partner, Combilift has not only provided cutting-edge workplace experience, but also ensured the course content remains aligned with real-world demands.

“We wanted to create more than just a training programme – we wanted to build a pathway into meaningful careers,” said Combilift Managing Director, Martin McVicar.

“This traineeship has delivered exactly that, time and time again.”

The nine-month programme blends 26 weeks of classroombased learning at Monaghan Institute with 12 weeks of hands-on work experience in Combilift. Over the years, the

course content has evolved to reflect changes in the manufacturing landscape, now including modules in hydraulics, lean manufacturing, and, more recently, mathematics to prepare students for greater work or educational opportunities.

CMETB has played a vital role in co-ordinating and delivering the educational aspect of the programme. Its ongoing commitment to adapting the curriculum, securing government funding, and expanding the scheme to include other regional employers from 2025 reflects its strategic approach to workforce development.

“It’s about staying ahead of the curve,” said Sinead McKenna of CMETB.

“We’ve created a flexible, forward-looking course that equips learners with in-demand skills and supports local industry at the same time.”

Representatives of past graduates, CMETB, Monaghan Institute and Combilift.

L-R: Matthew Ward, Professor, Monaghan Institute; Martin McVicar, CEO, Combilift; and Joe McGrath, CMETB.

A factory tour of Combilift.

Finning UK & Ireland’s Parker Anderson Retires After 50-Year Career

Parker Anderson, Product Support

Account Manager at Finning UK & Ireland, is set to retire at the end of July after a remarkable 50-year career in the plant and machinery industry.

Beginning his journey as a workshop mechanic, Parker has built a wealth of expertise and established vital relationships across the sector. Since taking on his current role in 1989, he has been a trusted resource within the company and the broader sector.

Stepping into his position will be Stephen Thompson, who currently serves as Customer Service Controller, ensuring a smooth transition.

Parker commented: “I have had too many highlights in the role to mention. With Stephen stepping into the role, I know that I’m handing over to somebody who is more than capable and going to provide the customers continuity.”

Speaking on his new venture, Stephen said: “I am very excited to take on the role –it’s something I’ve been building towards over the years. I have been in my current

job for the best part of 20 years, having started off as an engineer, and have built up customer relations during this time so it hopefully should be an easy transition.”

Finning UK & Ireland is a division of Finning International Inc., one of the world’s largest distributors of Caterpillar plant and complementary equipment and power systems.

L-R: Parker Anderson and Stephen Thompson at Balmoral Show.

SUSTAINABILITY TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT COLE GROUNDWORK CONTRACTS

As the construction industry evolves, the importance of the incorporation of ecoconscious practices into civil engineering and groundworks projects can’t be overstated.

But this isn’t a revelatory finding for Cole Groundwork Contracts – as a long-time leader in the groundworks and civil engineering realms, the company has been consistent in its commitment to minimising environmental impact, adopting innovative methods, conserving resources, and ultimately cultivating a future-proof environment for generations to come through its work.

Given the mammoth strides secured by the company, it’s difficult to believe that Managing Director, Conor Cole’s, career could have taken any other turn – but it almost did.

“When still at school, I was originally going to go into Accountancy, believe it or

not. That seemed to be a common path, and I was always very good with maths and numbers,” said Conor.

That course of thinking shifted following Conor’s subsequent completion of his A-Levels, when he spent a few years working with a groundwork contractor – rising up the ranks to become the foreman and, indeed, leading many of his employer’s jobs. Equipped with this first-hand knowledge, Conor embarked on Civil Engineering studies at university.

“With my on-site experience, and passion for the industry becoming almost a hobby to me, in my first year the tutor of the course said that I was like a fourth year student because of all the experience I had already gained. I was so interested in the area that when I went home,

I continued researching it myself,” recalled Conor. However, it was after leaving university that the foundations of the business were firmly planted and Conor’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished.

“I started off doing private domestic projects, and it just really grew from there. At that point I thought of it as a shortterm job rather than a longterm company, but I went out and took a shot at it, and then a few contractors heard and contacted me about more jobs. I kept my head down and kept going. From

2015-to-2020, our turnover increased steadily every year.”

BRANCHING OUT

This hard work aligned with the accelerated pace of the company’s profile. Although originating as a dedicated team of professionals serving domestic and small commercial building contractors, Cole Groundwork Contracts has over the years expanded to offer a comprehensive range of groundwork and civil engineering services across the UK and Ireland.

COLE GROUNDWORK CONTRACTS LEADING THE WAY WITH SUSTAINABILITY...

Now, from its Northern Ireland office, the team proudly partners with many of the world’s leading companies, including Bouygues, Gilbert Ash, WHP and Mercury to name a few, delivering high-quality solutions on projects of all sizes.

Under Conor’s expert guidance, the company is currently actively engaged in a diverse range of sectors – including infrastructure, the education sector, sustainable fuel terminals, electrical generation sites, telecommunications, and the water industry, and more recently moved into the substation and mission critical sector.

This broad spectrum of projects was impacted by considerable reflection brought on by the onset of the pandemic.

“When COVID kicked in, we were defined as essential workers –and I realised that I wanted to be involved in not just groundworks and civils projects, but jobs that are crucial to society, and essentially recession-proof. We started looking more towards telecommunications, power generation and the mission critical sector – with particular interest in data centres, energy projects, wind turbines, and we were strategic in our approach – making a clear plan for making it happen,” explained Conor.

“Last year we commenced our first major data centre job which we currently have a large team working on. This project win has allowed us to look across Europe

at further data centres. Working in the mission critical centre has been a natural progression for us as a company and something we are very proud of. We are extremely interested in this sector, the hurdles to overcome, and the continual evolving progression in technology in this area, and we are excited to become more involved. ”

BEING THE BEST

The company’s evolution over the years has very much been based on being the best at every turn.

“It sounds cliche but we strive to be the best we can and a genuine partner for our clients. Our rate of return clients is testament to how strong our work is. We have been able to evolve and grow by being the best in each sector we have worked in. Our core values aren’t just words on a page – they

are what we live by and what has contributed to our success.

“We deliver each project on our values and we even use them in our hiring process to ensure that anyone that joins our team is committed. We value honesty, motivation and genuinely care for our people, suppliers and partners.”

It is this mindset that has allowed Conor to win more and more projects year-on-year.

SOLUTIONS FOR A GREENER TOMORROW

During the completion of each project, the company’s pursuit of eco-friendly solutions where possible is clear. A key step in the company’s sustainability strategy has been the adoption of advanced HVO – a renewable, low-carbon

alternative to traditional diesel which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, which helps combat climate change and improve air quality on construction sites.

“In 2017 we started doing biogeneration projects in Scotland, and witnessed the team use HVO. The power that the team was producing was greater than what the factory required so they were selling the overspill of this back to the grid. It sparked my awareness of HVO and I started to ask questions. I then tried it myself and realised how transformational it is to improve emissions dramatically, without any need for changes to any plant or equipment.”

Cole Groundwork Contracts’ umbrella of environmental responsibility continued to expand in other ways, such as the adoption of smart tech to monitor fuel use, the encouragement of employing local labour in regions other than their home base, and sourcing materials as local to projects as commercially feasible.

“We’re making a statement in the industry with the quality and performance of a project we deliver, we are not just the normal civils contractor, we really believe we offer more to our clients and end users. We also want this to now reflect our commitment to sustainability.”

Conor is passionate that the company’s sustainability story continues to unveil new chapters and will never truly

be done – they are always looking for different eco-friendly approaches to their work both in the office and on-site.

“One of the core values in the company is ‘constant improvement’. This is for our people, our processes, the way we deliver, our attitudes, and this past few years has also been focused on our sustainability efforts. Everybody knows that as a business we either meet or beat the programme with

100 per cent dedication and at an extremely high quality standard – “Right First Time – Every Time”. We’re very flexible and will adapt to exceed clients’ expectations. ”

HIGH ACHIEVERS

As well as recognition from the clients they collaborate with, the Cole Groundwork Contracts’ team have had their efforts highlighted on a wider scale – earning acclaim at many key industry events, including the recent Business Eye Sustainability & ESG Awards 2025 in which the company was shortlisted for two titles: Sustainability Project of the Year (Small-Medium), and Sustainable Business Leader of the Year (for Conor). Conor has also been listed as a finalist in the upcoming 2025 Responsible Business Awards as Responsible Business Ambassador.

“It’s great to be recognised, however our clients and customers are what are important. If there’s no business, we wouldn’t be able to go for awards, so that comes first. The thing that comes next is the team – there would be no Cole Groundworks if it wasn’t for the fantastic team. I am proud of everyone from our senior leadership team to our groundworkers, and everyone in between,” said Conor. “Awards may list my name but its testament to the work of the whole team.”

SO WHAT IS NEXT FOR COLE GROUNDWORKS?

“We’re at the stage now where we’ve outgrown our offices so we’re actively looking at the next move. We’re also strategically looking at where it is next on the map in Europe. With our experience in France at present we are confident to move forward and become a dominant player in the mission critical sector in this region, and now look forward moving into other regions of Europe also. For now, we are waiting on a few very exciting projects hopefully coming to fruition, if we do, we can expect to see our turnover double in the next 18 months; which will align with a recruitment drive for the right people to support this.”

Conor pictured with wife, Emma, at the Machinery Movers Awards, in which he won Sustainable Company of the Year 2024.

Casting a sustainable future in concrete

Creagh have developed a Net Zero Roadmap which strategically aims at removing carbon throughout the company (Scope 1&2 emissions) and influence supply chain (Scope 3 emissions).

Our base year is 2019 and we have aligned our objectives closely with our sector’s Net Zero Roadmap - 2050, with 5 yearly milestones to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions.

The sector faces significant challenges due to the nature of cement manufacturing which is a key ingredient in our products and is outside our direct control.

We will however continue to influence change and innovation in the sector through our memberships of several industry bodies.

100% Certified Green Energy Supply across all our sites

We are collaborating with our longstanding supplier, Go Power. Creagh Concrete has established a 100% certified green electricity supply across our N.I. facilities. This move complements our UK sites, which commenced a green supply in January 2025.

Martin McIvor (Procurement) with Laura Loughran from GO Power

Creagh’s foundations for environmental responsibility

Sustainability Sp tlights

Environmental Product Declaration

Our EPD’s provide transparency about the environmental impacts of our products and help support the adoption of sustainable building practices. They also facilitate the smoother approval processes for construction projects.

Our journey from CEM II to CEM III is ongoing and with recent testing involving low carbon concrete demonstrating carbon savings of over 70%. Our journey to a more sustainable concrete mix is fundamental in our pathway to net zero.

Creagh’s have a strict Policy criteria for Responsible Aggregates Sourcing. Aggregates are all sourced within a 25 mile radius of the main product facility at Toome, Co. Antrim, thereby eliminating significant transport miles.

Through a dedicated Predictive Maintenance Programme our site engineers optimised absorbed power from our electricity supply by replacing deteriorating capacitors. This step optimised power usage by 8%.

Through continuous investment in people & processes Creagh has eliminated 7,202 metric tons of carbon from its Spantherm product line. From 2017 to 2023, we have eliminated 3,848.2 tonnes of steel mesh from our Spantherm® product lines.

PROJECT REPURPOSE

The project team led by the site continuous improvement lead has reduced the amount of virgin timber used within our business by 52% at one of our facilities and 27% at the our largest site.

Our Net Zero Roadmap plan illustrates our commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions from our operations with 5 yearly milestones. These are designed to ensure our trajectory and strategy are in line with the objective.

Download a copy of

“Creagh are very aware of the environmental impacts of our products & activities. We have developed our Roadmap to Net Zero, which through strategy & innovation we will mitigate and eliminate our carbon emissions”

James Mc Keague Managing Director - Creagh Concrete Products Ltd

FROM THE DESK OF:

GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI

FROM PROGRESS TO POTENTIAL –THE NEXT CHAPTER OF NET ZERO

When we published our industry journal in mid-2024 I entitled it ‘Our 3D Transition of Decarbonisation, Diversity and Digitisation’. Given the sustainability focus of this edition of Plant & Civil Engineer, I thought the time was appropriate to give readers an update on the impressive progress being made across all our sectors on the journey to net zero, energy efficiency and security. So, if saving the planet from climate change is not a priority for you or you see the drive to reduce carbon emissions as misinformation, that’s fine. However, can I ask you to take a moment and think and take a purely selfish approach? Let me explain! Since almost the start of the last century our lives and economies have been all but dependent on either oil, gas or coal. Our transport, our heating, our energy and many of the plastic and bituminous by-products that come from those industries. Unfortunately, since the end of the Second World War our global politics and many of the conflicts we have witnessed have been caused by disagreements and vested interests in getting access to oil and gas reserves. At this stage I would certainly recommend an excellent read: “Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Industry on Earth”. For me, and I do believe that climate change is real and happening, all this effort and investment in decarbonisation is about cheaper energy prices, generating our energy locally and importantly securing clean energy from the limitless natural resources we have around these islands. My evidence is simple! Look what happened in the 1970s when the Arab countries overnight significantly raised the oil price, the impact during the two Gulf Wars and more recently the impact of the Ukraine war on the price of gas

imports. Or speak to the residents of the tiny Pacific and Indian ocean islands who are or have made plans to evacuate their homes because of rising sea levels, or the people of Blatten in Switzerland where the collapse of a glacier engulfed their village recently.

WHAT CAN WE DO LOCALLY?

Many readers may have attended the MPANI Annual General Meeting earlier this year where we had an expert panel taking questions from our members. One particular question hit home the reality of how little control we have over the price of our electricity and other energy supplies. The question to the panel was simply: “What can we do locally as individuals and organisations to reduce energy prices?” John French’s, the Northern Ireland Utility Regulator, answer was short and chilling: “Not a lot”. John went on to explain that our electricity base line price movement is based on the wholesale price of gas, which of course is an internationally-traded commodity. We

operate within the All-Island Energy Market which is based on a European model. The good news is that discussions are ongoing at a European level to move away from fossil fuel indicators to more renewable sources, such as hydro and wind. Think of it! Northern Ireland has the highest nondomestic manufacturing electricity prices in Europe. We are four times the US level of electricity prices for manufacturing yet we have such huge potential to generate our own energy from wind, solar and biomethane. It needs to change and fast!

IDNI – A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH

I firmly believe we have a vehicle in Northern Ireland to take a collaborative approach to reducing energy costs, decarbonising and helping productivity level. That vehicle is IDNI. Funded by Innovate UK, key partners include Manufacturing NI, Mineral Products Association NI, AMIC/QUB, Ulster University/

Gordon Best, MPANI

Smart Manufacturing Data Hub, and a GB consortium that successfully delivered the UKRI-funded RePowering the Black Country project. Invest NI has also secured support from all 11 councils, DfE, DAERA, DfI, SONI, NI Chambers and all major Northern Ireland utility companies.

IDNI has developed a free-to-use, Productivity Emissions Tool (PET), which has been adopted by 103 Northern Ireland high energy intensive businesses to date, helping them establish their Scope 1 & 2 emissions, plus benchmarking productivity against GB counterpart organisations, using ONS comparisons.

IDNI has identified nine industrial clusters of high-energy users, across six of the 11 council regions and a Mineral Products Sectoral grouping of more dispersed businesses, titled Community of Shared Interest (MPANI-COSI). Additionally, IDNI is advancing a mapping initiative to enhance visibility of Northern Ireland’s industrial sectors, linking these with infrastructure and renewable asset generation by integrating input from electricity and renewable datasets. Invest NI is also engaging gas and water utilities in this effort to enhance strategic planning, investment and policy delivery for decarbonisation. By taking a customer-first perspective, IDNI has identified three distinct levels at which industrial decarbonisation methodology needs to be pursued:

• Individual firm carbon reduction interventions

• Clustering of neighbouring companies to enhance shared energy infrastructure and waste streams

• Improved infrastructure planning, industry information-sharing and development for the whole of Northern Ireland

While Innovate UK funding has now stopped, hopes are high that following the UK Government’s Comprehensive Spending

Review in June new funding streams will become available to take forward the already excellent collaborative work and cluster development that has gone on over the past 12 months. Certainly, we in MPANI will want to develop the Toomebridge Mineral Products Cluster and the wider NI Mineral Products Community of Shared Interest (COSI). Already we are advising, directing and informing members about the benefits of understanding and utilising half hour electricity metres, the use of smart meters and sensors in the manufacturing process, the technology around developing digital twins and how it can be applied in the quarry and mineral products sector. Recently funding has been made available through the Belfast Region City deal to develop and install new 5G /6G infrastructure. This 5G innovation funding scheme came out recently and I immediately thought it would be of interest to our MPANI members in the Belfast city region. As you are no doubt aware, our industry’s digital and automation journey will be totally dependent on the availability of high performance 5G and 6G on our sites, located mainly in rural areas.

THE WORK CONTINUES

What is heartening now is to see and hear of the work going on within our sector. The work continues with Queen's University, AFBI, Agriad and our cement members on exploring the potential use of Biochar in cement with a number of trials taking place already showing positive results. The Biomethane Gas potential is huge across Northern Ireland and in particular for our industry for heating or transport purposes. The generation and use of small-scale green hydrogen gets ever closer through the ground-breaking work of companies like Catagen. The use of battery storage in tandem with wind and solar offers real opportunities for our minerals sector.

On the diversity front we are certainly beginning to see more women and young girls coming into our sector, not only in the administration side but on front line disciplines as well. We will shortly be launching our new “Women in Minerals” video and social media clips. A huge thank you goes to all the ladies who gave of their time to speak on camera about their careers in the minerals sector and why they would recommend it to others.

REPRESENTING MEMBERS’ INTERESTS

The association continues our day-to-day works representing members’ interests. MPANI will host a visit by the Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, to Northstone’s Craigantlet Quarry and in particular to view the new asphalt plant. We will take the opportunity to raise members’ concerns around budgets for structural maintenance, planning reform, NI Water and revenue raising. We recently published a press release entitled, ‘Road Conditions Set to Get Worse, and it’s Already Bad”. It’s a blunt message from MPANI.

The Department for Infrastructure’s annual resource and capital allocation was announced by the finance minister and agreed by the Executive on 19th December 2024. The decision relating to the final 2025 / 2026 budget is yet to be announced by the Minister and consequently DfI staff and the contracting industry are working to provisional unconfirmed allowances, causing grave uncertainty in the market as to whether there is a pipeline of work for the remainder of the financial year. At this point, MPANI are calling on the Minister to carry out a review of the allocations to ensure that our existing road network does not fall into further unsafe condition and disrepair, and to bring some certainty for all employed in the highway maintenance sector.

My view is that the proposed budget for Transport and Road Asset Management (TRAM) has dropped from £143 in 2024 to £121 million for 2025 / 2026. The levels of road structural maintenance funding of £68 million being proposed for this coming year is truly shocking. In real terms, allowing for inflation, it takes us back to levels of spend last seen in the late 90s. Our members can’t understand this given the Department’s draft 2025-26 budget outcome, for both resource and capital is showing a 14 per cent improved position in comparison to previous years. The reality is that this budget allocation is the largest capital budget ever proposed for any NICS Department. What is being proposed is grossly unbalanced and completely ignores previous professional advice outlined in the 2010 Snaith Report, 2019 Barton Report and the NI Audit Office Report. The policy is akin to building a new extension to your house while at the same time your roof is leaking. We need an urgent and serious discussion on how we fund and procure new capital funded roads and water infrastructure. We believe the Department have got the balance of spend all wrong. We have to be brutally honest here, the impact of these decisions will be a continued acceleration in the deterioration of the road network condition, an increase to the risks to all

road-users, whether in vehicles, or on cycles or other active travel, or on foot, and an undermining of the contracting and support organisations who rely on this sector for the sustained employment of their employees. The potential safety implications for the condition of an already deteriorating road network are enormous. MPANI, in partnership with HSENI, has written to all school principals in Northern Ireland asking for their support to spread the “Cold Water Safety Message” and trespassing dangers to children and young people. MPANI and HSENI have been writing this letter for 15 years and are grateful for the support and feedback that many school principals give to this important safety message.

ADDRESSING WORKRELATED STRESS

MPA has published a new guidance document on work-related stress. The guide aims to provide clear, simple, smart guidance to employers and managers to help them complete a suitable and sufficient workrelated stress risk assessment of their workplace. Launched to coincide with Stress Awareness Month, the guidance document describes the importance of carrying out an organisational level risk assessment that addresses work-related stress. It also lays out the legal context and touches on the moral

and financial cases for managing work related stress and the practical steps that need to be taken during the risk assessment process. Statistics published by Health and Safety Executive show that 0.9m workers suffered from work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2022/23, accounting for 17.1 million working days lost¹. Deloitte also reported that poor mental health, including stress, costs UK employers up to £56 billion a year. MPANI will be meeting with Local Council Senior Planners Group (SPG) shortly to discuss many issues of concern for our mineral products sector. Namely:

• Establishment of a skilled, wellresourced shared service for mineral and waste planning

• Time-scales for planning decisions

• Fast-tracking of renewable energy infrastructure on MPANI members sites

• Use of financial guarantees

• Recent involvement of the Public Health Agency (PHA) as a statutory consultee

If you’re interested in becoming a full or affiliate member of MPANI and get access to up-to-date industry news and guidance don’t hesitate to give me a call on 07876136929. It would be great to have you on-board. Take care and stay safe!

20mm

R HEATRICK LTD: DRIVING INNOVATION IN WASTE RECOVERY THROUGH ADVANCED WASH PLANT TECHNOLOGY

With more than half a century of experience in haulage, demolition, and recycling, R Heatrick Ltd (RHL) has carved out a prominent role as an environmental leader within Northern Ireland’s construction industry. As a family-run business founded in 1969 by Robert Heatrick, RHL has evolved far beyond its civil engineering origins to become a pioneer in sustainable waste management.

At the core of this transformation lies one of its most impressive innovations to date: a state-ofthe-art wash plant dedicated to processing recycled aggregates and trommel fines – an initiative that not only advances the circular economy but also sets a new standard in the region for environmental excellence.

BUILDING SUSTAINABILITY INTO THE BUSINESS

Long before sustainability became a buzzword, RHL was finding ways to repurpose construction and demolition (C&D) waste. The company’s early demolition

projects involved crushing concrete and brick debris into hardcore material for reuse on-site or further processing at its own quarry. These surplus materials were tested under WRAP protocols and reintroduced into the construction market,

reducing landfill dependency and the need for virgin aggregates. That ethos continues today, embedded deeply in the company’s operations and culture. Still family-run, now by Robert’s sons and grandsons, RHL combines generational knowledge with modern innovation to tackle today’s most pressing environmental challenges.

A GAME-CHANGING INVESTMENT: THE WASH PLANT

In 2021, Managing Director, Trevor Heatrick, led a new initiative to solve a long-standing problem in waste processing – what to do with trommel fines. These materials, made up of fine sand, soil, and organic debris, are typically unsuitable for reuse and often relegated to landfill. Determined to find a sustainable alternative, RHL partnered with

building towards net zero

engineering specialists CDE Global to build Northern Ireland’s first trommel fines washing plant at their quarry in Lisburn. The £2 million investment has proven transformative, enabling the company to recycle up to 98 per cent of all C&D waste it handles.

The 50-tonne-per-hour wash plant features a sophisticated process including an AggMax modular log washer, an EvoWash system with Counter Flow Classification Unit (CFCU), AquaCycle thickener, and static screens. This configuration enables the removal of lightweight organics – key contributors to Loss on Ignition (LOI) – and converts the waste stream into high-quality, sellable construction materials.

FROM WASTE TO RESOURCE

The wash plant currently produces a variety of in-demand materials, including paving and cable sands, drainage gravel, and two sizes of pipe bedding. These are sold back to the construction, farming, and

landscaping sectors, helping close the loop on material reuse.

RHL’s wide range of products in question also include:

• Crushed Concrete 75mm down

• Pipe Bedding 14mm & 20mm

• 50mm Clean Drainage

• Paving/Concrete Sand

• Fine Sand

• Screened Top soil

Notably, RHL doesn’t just sell these products – they use them too. In early 2024, the company constructed three new sheds at its Lisburn site, the largest measuring 25,000 sq. ft, using 100 per cent recycled aggregates from its wash plant.

Over 2,000 cubic metres of concrete made from recycled 20mm stone and grit sand went into these structures, underscoring RHL’s commitment to embedding sustainability at every level of its operations.

NEW WASTE STREAMS, NEW POSSIBILITIES

Continuing to expand its sustainability reach, RHL

recently began accepting street sweepings – a notoriously complex waste stream – after winning a contract with Ards and North Down Borough Council. The wash plant can process a 25-tonne load of sweepings in under 30 minutes, efficiently separating contaminants and converting residual materials into recycled aggregates.

“This marks the beginning of further exploration and testing of other waste streams that have the potential to contribute to the circular economy,” said Trevor Heatrick.

“We’re always looking at how we can push the boundaries of what’s possible in waste recovery.”

LOOKING AHEAD

As the construction sector moves toward more sustainable building practices, the demand for recycled aggregates is growing – and RHL is well-positioned to meet it. The company continues to explore new technologies and partnerships to enhance its resource recovery capabilities

and increase the availability of high-quality recycled products across the region.

With plans to develop adjacent sites using its own recycled materials and expand the types of waste the wash plant can process, RHL’s long-term goals are clear: to lead Northern Ireland in recycled aggregate use and redefine how the construction industry approaches waste.

A MODEL FOR THE INDUSTRY

From humble beginnings to award-winning recognition for environmental and waste management excellence, RHL has proven that sustainability and profitability can go hand-in-hand. Through investment in innovation, commitment to the circular economy, and a forward-thinking family leadership, RHL stands as a beacon of environmental responsibility and a model for others in the industry to follow.

For more information about RHL, as well as pricing details for their products please email aggregates@skipway.com

Feed Material.

50mm Recycled.

Fine Sand.

building towards net zero

IT’S NOT JUST MERLO’S MACHINES THAT ARE RESPECTFUL TO THE ENVIRONMENT

How a sustainability mindset is shaping the future of construction and agriculture – starting from the factory floor.

Merlo is known across the world for its innovative handling solutions – but the company’s commitment to sustainability runs deeper than the green paint on its machines. From cutting-edge electric telehandlers to solar-powered facilities and circular waste systems, Merlo is driving a comprehensive, group-wide shift towards cleaner, smarter operations. And this transformation isn’t just happening in Italy. The UK team is taking the same ambitious steps, proving that sustainability is not a one-off project – it’s a culture.

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE SOURCE: INSIDE THE ITALIAN FACTORY

At Merlo Group’s headquarters near Cuneo, Piedmont, sustainability begins long before a machine leaves the production line.

The site is powered in part by an extensive photovoltaic array, which in 2024 alone produced 1,150 MWh of clean energy – avoiding approximately 750 tonnes of CO2 emissions, the equivalent of planting over 4,500 trees. The goal? To reach energy parity generating as much electricity as the site consumes.

But green power is just the start.

CIRCULAR THINKING: WASTE REDUCTION AND MATERIAL RECOVERY

Merlo has taken major steps to minimise its environmental impact through smart waste and resource strategies:

• Over 30 compacting presses manage the recycling of cardboard and plastic packaging

• Metal filings and scrap offcuts from sheets are systematically collected for reprocessing

• Employees are encouraged to shut down IT equipment when not in use – small actions that, collectively, lead to substantial energy savings

• Sensor-activated taps minimise waste water in restrooms, while digital transformation initiatives have drastically cut printed paper usage by transitioning communication and records to digital platforms These might sound like operational details – but they reflect a much larger ambition: to build machines sustainably, from the inside out.

EFFICIENCY WHERE IT MATTERS

Energy-saving measures continue across the facility:

• A site-wide transition to LED lighting is underway, with systems that use up to 90% less energy than traditional fixtures

• Dusk sensors and automated heating systems regulate lighting and temperature in key departments, using smart home tech to avoid waste

• New production buildings are being built with enhanced insulation, ensuring thermal efficiency and reducing heating and cooling demands

• Upgraded production equipment and streamlined logistics reduce internal fuel consumption and optimise operations

Merlo UK EV charging Hybrid car.

Merlo UK solar panels.

building towards net zero

Every innovation within the factory is designed to do more with less – less energy, less waste, and fewer emissions.

GENERATION ZERO: SUSTAINABLE MACHINES FOR A MODERN WORLD

Merlo’s environmental commitment doesn’t end at the factory gates. It’s carried forward into the machines themselves.

The eWorker, Merlo’s fully electric telehandler, is a standout. Zero-emission, near-silent, and packed with ecoinnovation – from regenerative braking and auto start-stop to a recyclable battery system – it’s proof that green performance doesn’t mean compromise. Also in the spotlight are the ROTO Plug & Play Hybrid, delivering full-size performance with significantly reduced emissions, and the eCINGO, a compact, electric tracked carrier built for clean operation in confined or indoor environments. But these are just the beginning. Several other models in the Generation Zero line are currently in concept development or preproduction, set to expand Merlo’s sustainable range even further. As these machines transition from prototype to production,

they will reinforce the group’s long-term commitment to offering a complete portfolio of low- and zero-emission handling solutions. Together, they signal that sustainable handling isn’t a distant goal – it’s an evolving reality. And Merlo is leading the way.

MERLO UK: FOLLOWING IN SUSTAINABLE FOOTSTEPS

In the UK, the green ethos is equally strong. Merlo UK has embraced solar energy at its base in Ringwood, Hampshire, where rooftop panels now help power operations and employee vehicles. Any unused energy is fed back into the grid – closing the loop on responsible energy use. Where appropriate, the car policy is for hybrid vehicles, while recyclable packaging has replacing traditional materials in logistics and parts distribution.

In 2023, Merlo also began a gradual transition to more sustainable shipping methods for machines bound for the UK. Where possible, units are transported across Europe via electric freight trains, with sea crossings handled by hybrid LNG/electric vessels –further reducing the carbon footprint of every machine before it even reaches UK soil.

These are not just token efforts – they’re part of a long-term commitment to embed sustainability into every corner of the business.

SUSTAINABILITY IS IN OUR DNA

Whether it’s a technician shutting down their workstation to save power, a manager reviewing LED retrofitting plans, or an engineer fine-tuning a new-generation electric telehandler, Merlo’s teams – across Italy and the Merlo group – are united by a shared goal: to create a cleaner, smarter, more sustainable future.

As Shaun Groom, Managing Director of Merlo UK, puts it: “We all have a responsibility to future generations. Sustainability is about more than the machines we deliver – it’s about how we build them, how we power them, and how we run our business day-to-day.”

It’s not just the machines that are evolving. It’s the mindset.

MERLO’S SUSTAINABILITY IN NUMBERS

1,150 MWh of solar energy produced (2024)

750 tonnes of CO2 saved –equal to planting 4,500+ trees

Over 30 compacting presses across the factory

90% energy savings from LED lighting rollout

100% electric

eWorker telehandler in production

The eWorker at work – zero-emission performance, Italian engineering

E-Worker. Merlo UK recycled packaging.

Merlo’s LED panel showing real-time solar output and CO2 savings.

building towards net zero

DIGITALISATION AND THE FUTURE OF LOW-CARBON HOUSING

BY TOM BROUGH, GTC SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR

The UK housing sector is at the forefront of a digital transformation, as the nation pushes towards a sustainable net zero future. Digitalisation is reshaping the way homes are built, managed, and lived in, playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. By leveraging smart technologies, digitalisation enables seamless integration between lowcarbon heating systems, the electricity grid, and user interfaces, making sustainable living both practical and accessible.

THE ROLE OF DIGITALISATION IN DECARBONISING THE UK HOUSING SECTOR

Digitalisation is transforming the UK housing sector by enabling data-driven insights, automation, and connectivity between systems. This shift plays a significant role in decarbonising homes, aligning with the Future Homes Standard, which mandates new homes to achieve high energy efficiency and low-carbon emissions. With the help of digital technologies, energy-efficient heating systems can now operate in harmony with the electricity grid, balancing energy demand and supply, while giving users greater control over their consumption. Heating, which traditionally depended on carbon-intensive sources, has become a critical area of focus in this digital transformation. Low-carbon heating systems like Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps and Community Heat Hubs, when coupled with smart technologies like a Passiv Smart Thermostat, create sophisticated ecosystems where data is used to optimise energy use, enhance comfort, and support grid stability. Through this digital integration, homes can achieve high efficiency without placing undue strain on the grid, making electrification sustainable at scale.

NETWORKED GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS: A DIGITAL-READY, LOWCARBON SOLUTION

Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps, when installed as part of a smart bundled solution, can meet the demands of modern, digitalised homes. Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps work by extracting thermal energy stored in the ground, which is then amplified by a heat pump to provide consistent, efficient heating. As an electrically-driven system, Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps represent an essential component of electrification efforts, but their digital capabilities are what truly enhance their value. When integrated with smart thermostat technology, Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps enable residents to set their comfort levels. The device then optimises the home's

Tom Brough, GTC Sales and Marketing Director.

energy use in real-time, making informed adjustments. This removes the need for manual adjustment, creating a seamless, easyto-use home energy management system.

This smart technology also contributes to grid stability by allowing homes to respond to demand-side incentives. For example, users can be incentivised to reduce their heating demand during peak times, reducing pressure on the grid and lowering overall energy costs. This level of digital flexibility makes homes future-proofed, supporting not only today’s energy needs but also those of a rapidly evolving, decarbonised energy landscape.

COMMUNITY HEAT HUBS: CENTRALISED, DIGITALISED HEATING FOR LARGER DEVELOPMENTS

Community Heat Hubs bring low-carbon heating to multi-unit developments and urban communities, where individual heat pumps may not be feasible. Community Heat Hubs use a shared heat network to distribute renewable heat to multiple homes, centralising energy use and creating efficiencies that align well with grid demands. Through digitalisation, Community Heat Hubs offer even greater benefits, with smart systems that allow for heat demand to be controlled, monitored, and balanced across the development.

By integrating Community Heat Hubs with Passiv’s digital energy management platform, a cohesive, adaptable system is created that operates efficiently at scale. The digital energy management platform provides real-time data on energy consumption across the Hub, enabling responsive heat distribution that matches both user demand and grid capacity. This digital integration also offers housebuilders a scalable, future-ready solution that supports both cost efficiency and compliance with sustainability standards, making it easier to create smart, low-carbon communities.

BENEFITS FOR HOUSEBUILDERS, RESIDENTS, AND THE GRID: A DIGITAL ECOSYSTEM FOR LOW-CARBON LIVING

Combining Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps and Community Heat Hubs with smart thermostat technology creates a digital ecosystem that benefits housebuilders, residents, and the grid alike:

For housebuilders: Digitalised heating solutions provide a direct path to compliance with the Future Homes Standard, reducing the complexity of regulatory requirements while delivering enhanced value to prospective buyers. Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps and Community Heat Hubs, coupled with smart controls, make new homes attractive to modern buyers seeking environmentally friendly, tech-enabled features.

For residents: Digitalisation offers unprecedented control and transparency, enabling residents to interact with their heating system in meaningful ways. Smart thermostats allow users to set heating preferences, track consumption, and make data-driven adjustments, creating a balance of comfort and cost-efficiency. By taking charge of their energy use, residents can significantly reduce their environmental impact while enjoying a high standard of living.

For the grid: As electrification progresses, the ability to manage energy demand digitally is invaluable for maintaining grid stability. Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps and Community Heat Hubs, enhanced by intelligent energy management, allow for demand to be spread across off-peak times, reducing load during peak hours.

This digitalised demand management helps balance supply and demand, making the grid more resilient and adaptable as it supports the transition to renewable energy sources.

TOWARDS A DIGITALISED, LOWCARBON FUTURE IN HOUSING

Low-carbon, digital-ready heating solutions are shaping the future of sustainable housing in the UK. Through Networked Ground Source Heat Pumps and Community Heat Hubs, homes are being created that meet the UK’s electrification and decarbonisation goals, supporting a seamless, data-driven experience for housebuilders, residents, and communities. By embracing digitalisation, the UK housing sector can accelerate its journey to net zero, creating homes that are not only energy-efficient but also intelligent, adaptable, and ready for the future. Through innovation and forward thinking we are helping to build a resilient, low-carbon housing market that benefits everyone – from developers and residents, to the energy grid that powers the nation.

TO CHANGE OUR WORLD

building towards net zero

HYDROGEN DIGGERS GET GREEN LIGHT TO USE ON UK ROADS

JCB has hailed a monumental government decision to change the law to give hydrogen diggers the green light to be driven on UK roads.

Lilian Greenwood MP, Minister for the Future of Roads, has signed a statutory instrument allowing hydrogen fuelled construction and agricultural machinery to use the public highway.

JCB Chairman, Anthony Bamford – who instigated a £100 million project to develop a hydrogen combustion engine to power JCB’s machines – hailed the news as “historic”. Lord Bamford’s reaction came as a hydrogen-powered JCB digger was driven around London’s roads to mark the momentous announcement – calling in at the Department for Transport to meet the Minister who made the legislative change happen.

Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said: “Today shows once again we are on the side of British business, as we now allow hydrogen-powered diggers and tractors to be legally driven on UK roads for the first time. We’re supporting the UK’s Plan for Change by working

closely with brilliant British companies like JCB to harness the opportunities of the net zero transition, driving innovation and creating jobs to put money in the pockets of hardworking people and secure our future.”

Lord Bamford also commented: “The JCB team has done amazing work to develop a hydrogen combustion engine. It has already been given resounding backing from our customers who have

been evaluating the technology; they say it is simple to use and performs as well as diesel counterparts. We are delighted that the government has now endorsed the use of hydrogen in machinery. There has been a lot of work to get to this point. It is truly a historic day for JCB and a milestone moment for the use of hydrogen as a zero-carbon fuel in the construction and agricultural machinery industries. We now have the legislation that allows

hydrogen-powered machines to drive on the road between sites and between farms.”

Lilian Greenwood signed the statutory instrument in early April to pave the way for an amendment to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 to enable the road use of hydrogen-fuelled non-road mobile machinery.

Other hydrogen powered vehicles, including cars, buses and trucks were already permitted by law to use UK roads. JCB has invested more than £100 million to produce a range of super-efficient zero-emission hydrogen engines. This pioneering project at JCB’s engine plant in Derbyshire has been personally driven by JCB Chairman, Anthony Bamford, who challenged the company’s engineers to make a major breakthrough in the use of hydrogen as a fuel in a combustion engine. JCB has been operating prototype hydrogenpowered Loadall telescopic handlers, backhoe loaders and generators on sites near Birmingham and is now testing a range of equipment in partnership with rental companies and leading contractors across the UK.

A hydrogen JCB digger drives over Westminster Bridge past Houses of Parliament

On The Mall - JCB's hydrogen digger..

Lilian Greenwood MP and JCB's Tim Burnhope with the signed statutory instrument.

JCB SECURES FULL EU TYPEAPPROVAL FOR PIONEERING HYDROGEN ENGINE

JCB has also passed another significant milestone on its pioneering hydrogen technology development programme after securing the first full EU typeapproval of its hydrogen engine for use in non-road mobile machinery.

This means that JCB’s hydrogen engine has been approved for sale and for use in machines and third-party OEM equipment in each of the 27 EU member states, and all other territories recognising EU typeapprovals (e.g. EEA and EFTA territories). The EU type-approval certificate has been issued in accordance with Regulation (EU)

2016/1628 and certifies JCB’s hydrogen combustion engine to prevailing EU Stage V emissions norms. The EU type-approval follows earlier landmark rulings by licensing authorities in nine countries in mainland Europe allowing the engine to be used commercially in machines in those countries under ‘new technology’ provisions.

JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who has led the company’s hydrogen engine project, said: “This is another very significant moment for JCB’s hydrogen programme. It was not so long ago that some said that it was ‘game over’ for the internal

combustion engine in Europe. For JCB to have secured full EU type-approval is proof positive that the combustion engine does indeed have a promising future in pursuit of a net zero world if hydrogen, a zero CO2 fuel, is used instead of fossil fuels.”

Lord Bamford added: “I could not be more delighted for the JCB team that put so much work into getting us to this stage. Now our focus will be on bringing our hydrogen technology to market. JCB’s customers are patiently waiting for our hydrogen-powered equipment to make a difference on their job sites. They won’t have much longer to wait.”

A JCB hydrogen-powered backhoe loader pictured in Vienna, Austria.

W.R. KENNEDY & COMPANY: FUELING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR THE INDUSTRY

With society increasingly edging towards cleaner energy sources, more and more companies are turning to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil renewable diesel in order to position themselves as key players in the transition to renewable energy and sustainable transportation.

W.R. Kennedy & Company – a leader in the wholesale fuels and lubricants supply throughout Northern Ireland since 1962 –has been a key force in helping industries successfully charge towards this change.

HELPING BUSINESSES HELP THE ENVIRONMENT

For the last couple of years, the Ballymenabased Texaco authorised distributor and wholesaler has been facilitating trials of Texaco HVO for businesses across Northern Ireland – companies which derive from various industries, such as transport, construction, manufacturing, and food production.

Showcased through its decades of experience and leadership in renewable energy, Texaco HVO Renewable Diesel provides a cleaner, lower-carbon alternative to traditional diesel. Its high cetane rating enhances engine performance and ensures smooth operation in all weather conditions. As a drop-in fuel that matches the

chemical makeup of standard petroleum diesel, it’s an option that requires no engine modifications or infrastructure changes.

Helping pave a more environmentallyfriendly path for companies, the renewable and sustainable diesel offers up to 90

per cent less greenhouse gas emissions compared to regular diesel. Chemically identical to petroleum-based diesel, it burns cleaner with a lower carbon footprint while delivering higher engine performance, and performs reliably in both cold and warm climates and is cost-competitive with traditional fuels.

building towards net zero

Additionally, this renewable diesel has been recognised as producing significantly fewer greenhouse gases than hybrid and electric vehicles, ensuring guaranteed performance –all the while supporting a sustainable future.

THE FEEDBACK SPEAKS VOLUMES

Already boasting an ever-increasing customer base, many of W.R. Kennedy’s clients have been availing of this HVO provision, appreciating not just the quality and efficiency of the product, but the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and fast, flexible, excellent customer service.

Dalradian – a mineral exploration and development company, which has been working on the Curraghinalt polymetallic deposit in West Tyrone, Northern Ireland, since late 2009 – is just one of the companies which has appreciated W.R. Kennedy as a valued source of assistance on their journey.

Oonagh McKenna, Sustainability Officer at Dalradian, explains: “We’ve been consistently impressed with the service provided by W.R. Kennedy in supplying HVO to our operations. Niall and the team are reliable, responsive, and committed to meeting our fuel needs with a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency.

“Transitioning to HVO with W.R. Kennedy’s support has been an important step forward in reducing our environmental impact. As a renewable diesel alternative, HVO allows us to cut greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. This aligns perfectly with our commitment to responsible business and reducing our carbon footprint.”

With a multitude of other businesses also echoing this verdict, W.R. Kennedy is poised to advance into the future, driven by a steadfast commitment to the community and strengthened environmentally-responsible partnerships.

building towards net zero

STAYING AHEAD – INTEGRATING SUSTAINABILITY FROM PROJECT INCEPTION

Despite some progress in sustainability practices within the construction industry, a significant gap remains in how early sustainability decisions are integrated into projects, according to a survey of industry professionals from NBS (powered by Hubexo), a leading specification and product information platform for the construction industry. The landscape is rapidly changing as the demand for sustainable construction continues to grow, with professionals and clients leading the charge. Although regulation is increasing, it is still not enough to drive widespread uptake. The demand is primarily coming from industry professionals and clients, who are pushing for low-carbon projects that prioritise energy and resource efficiency, while also minimising waste in both buildings and infrastructure. These evolving requirements underscore the urgent need for the industry to address sustainability concerns from the earliest stages of project planning and throughout the entire construction lifecycle. Despite this progress, the concept of circular construction is still very much in its infancy, highlighting the need for further development and integration of sustainable practices across the sector.

IMPROVING PROJECT SUSTAINABILITY

Compared to the last NBS Sustainable Futures Report in 2021, there has been a 10 per cent increase in respondents stating that sustainability is “usually or always” achieved on their projects, rising to 43 per cent. For

architects specifically, the figure is 35 per cent. However, a third of professionals also reported that their projects rarely or never meet these sustainability goals, indicating substantial room for improvement.

EARLY SUSTAINABILITY CONSIDERATION

While the majority of respondents (72 per cent) have said that sustainability is typically considered during the design stage, 84 per cent have agreed that it should ideally be addressed much earlier – during the strategy and brief stage. This early intervention would set clear sustainability goals, establish appropriate budgets, and ensure effective outcomes throughout the project lifecycle.

THE DISCONNECT

There’s a notable disconnect between when sustainability is typically considered in practice (the design stage) and when it should ideally be addressed (strategy and brief). Architects and engineers are calling for a more integrated approach to sustainability from the outset, with 62 per cent of respondents with these job roles agreeing that sustainability should be considered during the strategy and brief stages. This gap highlights the lack of regulatory force driving earlier integration of sustainability into projects. Increased regulation would help address this issue, ensuring that sustainability is prioritised at the earliest stages.

Tools like NBS Chorus, partnered with BCIS BECD, provide a powerful solution for integrating sustainability early in the design process. By offering carbon cost estimates

at the concept stage, these tools enable professionals to assess the environmental impact of their design choices from the outset. This allows project teams to make informed decisions on carbon reduction strategies, ensuring that sustainability goals are met from the very beginning of a project. With BCIS BECD’s and NBS Chorus’ carbon insights, architects can better understand the cost implications of sustainable materials and systems, driving smarter, more sustainable design decisions. Dr Lee Jones, Head of Sustainability at NBS, explained: “The construction industry is making incremental but important strides toward reducing its environmental impact, with NBS reporting a positive uptick in the percentage of projects where sustainability is ‘usually or always’ achieved. This progress signals a growing commitment within the sector, though it’s clear that we still have significant work ahead of us to fully integrate sustainable practices throughout the lifecycle of projects

“But looking ahead, there’s a strong need for the industry to adopt sustainability at the very beginning of the process, during the strategy and brief stages. The fact that so many professionals agree that sustainability should be addressed earlier is promising, but the gap between intention and practice remains.

“Only by embedding sustainability from the very start, as outlined by frameworks like the RIBA Plan of Work, can we ensure that the buildings and infrastructure of tomorrow will truly meet the environmental and social challenges of the future.”

HVO Renewable Diesel

The sustainable option for businesses who want to help the environment.

Fuelled by years of early investment and leadership in the field of renewable energy, Texaco HVO Renewable Diesel is lower in carbon and burns cleaner than regular diesel. Its high cetane count enhances engine performance and gives a smoother delivery that performs well in both cold and warm climates. As a drop-in fuel with a chemical makeup that’s the same as regular petroleum-based diesel, no engine or infrastructure changes are needed.

Why Texaco HVO Renewable Diesel is the better choice:

100% renewable and sustainable

Up to 90% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to regular diesel

Chemically the same as petroleum-based diesel

Burns cleaner with a lower carbon footprint

Provides higher engine performance

Performs in cold and warm climates

Cost-competitive

More reliable than electric vehicles

Significantly lower greenhouse gases than hybrid and electric vehicles

Guaranteed performance

No CO2 emissions onsite – the L 507 E from Liebherr is also suitable for indoor applications.

LIEBHERR’S SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

L 507 E: LIEBHERR’S BATTERY-ELECTRIC WHEEL LOADER

The L 507 E battery-electric wheel loader has been available from Liebherr sales partners in several European countries since October 2023. The model is the first electric wheel loader in the group, and combines the demonstrable advantages of a Liebherr Stereoloader with a batteryelectric drive design developed by Liebherr. The performance of the L 507 E is equal to that of a conventionally-powered Liebherr wheel loader in the same size class, but it emits no CO 2 onsite. In addition, noise emissions are kept to a minimum, which makes the wheel loader particularly suitable

for any application where you have to consider noise or exhaust fumes, such as in inner-city areas or in halls. Liebherr relies on a high-voltage battery system –specially developed for L 507 E wheel loader applications – which ensures powerful performance and efficient charging. With the 507 E, the battery-electric drive means that full power is available at all times. The operator thus benefits from dynamic working movements and responsive handling. As standard, the wheel loader has a final speed of 20 km/h. However, the L 507 E is also optionally available as a ‘Speeder’ and in this version reaches a speed of up to 30 km/h, which makes it easier to move the wheel loader, from one job site to another. To increase efficiency, the energy generated

downhill and during braking is fed back into the battery through recuperation.

The L 507 E is based on the conventional Liebherr L 507 Stereo wheel loader. This means that the battery-electric wheel loader also features stereo steering. This combination of articulated steering and steered rear axle combines the advantages of conventional articulated steering with those of all-wheel steering. This results in a minimal turning circle and a reduced articulation angle of 30 degrees, which increases the stability of the wheel loader. Liebherr has also installed its reputable articulated pendulum joint in the L 507 E, which compensates for uneven ground and ensures that the wheel loader has excellent stability.

building towards net zero

ENERGY STORAGE AND ENERGY PLANNING FOR CONSTRUCTION SITES

The Liduro Power Port (LPO) is an energy storage system for power supply on construction sites, and allows for locally emission-free operation and charging of hybrid or fully electric construction machinery and equipment. The high power density and compact design of the LPOs enable an efficient and flexible supply of machines or construction sites with diverse power requirements.

The call for the electrification of construction sites will gain even more importance in the coming years, in order to meet local and global climate targets for the reduction of emissions. Therefore, construction site operators have a dynamically growing energy demand in response to the existing and upcoming emissions regulations. Sometimes, access to power supply on construction sites is either limited or missing at all. Consequently, electrified construction sites face such challenges as machine operation at a maximum power, charging of numerous machines during breaks and smoothing load peaks. The LPO offers a highly efficient solution for the power supply of machines, being a market-leader in power and energy density to date.

NEW ELECTRIC MOTORS FOR OFF HIGHWAY APPLICATIONS

Liebherr presented the smallest model range of the Liduro Power Port as a series product in the LPO 100 version on the Liebherr main booth (809 – 813) at this year’s Bauma. It can be used with maximum efficiency to supply tower cranes, fast-erecting cranes and small to medium-sized machines – for example, Liebherr’s wheel loader L 507 E.

The gross energy content ranges from 40 kWh to 160 kWh, depending on the version, with peak outputs ranging from approx. 60 to 150 kVA.

The energy storage system can supplement an insufficient grid connection or be used as an isolated grid – i.e. when no grid connection is available. Using the LPO as a supplement to the grid connection allows to significantly reduce the dimensioning of the grid connection power, as the energy storage system covers the load peaks of the machines.

In stand-alone operation, the LPO is a flexible and highly efficient solution: high load peaks, on the one hand, and longer periods with very low power requirements, on the other, are typical of construction sites – for example, for lighting or small appliances. The mobile energy storage system supplies power on demand and without surplus, i.e. with an optimum price-performance ratio. Compared to diesel generators, which have a consistently high consumption of fossil

The direct oil-cooled electric machine, which has been specially developed for battery and diesel-electric traction drives, enables quick and easy installation and the electrification of existing hydraulic drive concepts. Thanks to moderate pressures in the cooling circuit, the risk of leaks is significantly lower, which results in higher safety. In addition, there is no further risk of emissions, contamination

energy regardless of their consumers, the LPO delivers power with a significantly higher level of efficiency and without idling phases.

LPO 600: ENERGY SUPPLY FOR LARGE MACHINES AND FLEETS

The LPO 600 represents the medium model range of the Liduro Power Port series. This battery-based energy storage with integrated DC fast charging stations and further AC charging connections has the gross energy content of 564 kWh and therefore sufficient power for the supply of large machines or fleets – even with no grid connection available.

ENERGY PLANNER –ON THE LPO’S SIDE

Energy Planner is a browser-based software for holistic planning of the power and energy requirements of a construction site in various construction phases. The tool helps construction site and fleet managers, electrical and energy planners or dispatchers with the energy planning, setup and monitoring of a construction site.

or accidents as a consequence of burst pipes. The permanent magnet machine is the sustainable alternative that makes applications future-proof. The innovative design of the motor significantly reduces maintenance efforts. This results in less downtime and lower maintenance costs. In addition, the high torque in relation to the speed ensures a longer service life of the machine and an increase in the MTBF (mean

time between failures) in the system due to the reduced number of gear stages.

Liebherr’s permanent magnet motors are ideal for mobile applications, in which compact installation space as well as the reduction of emissions and contamination are crucial.

With an efficiency of 94-to96 per cent, a permanent magnet motor is far more effective than a hydraulic motor (approx. 50 per cent), and therefore consumes significantly less energy.

building towards net zero

‘BUILDING A CIRCULAR IRELAND’ ROADMAP LAUNCHED BY MINISTER JAMES BROWNE

A major new report charting Ireland’s path to a circular built environment by 2040 was recently launched by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, at the Irish Green Building Council’s annual conference.

Construction and demolition generate 8.3 million tonnes of waste in Ireland each year, and at the same time, over 97 per cent of the materials flowing through the Irish economy are from virgin sources. The ‘Building a Circular Ireland’ roadmap aims to move the industry from this ‘take-makewaste’ model to a fully circular system through a strong emphasis on waste prevention, reuse, smart design, resource efficiency and circular business models that add real value – moving beyond traditional recycling and downcycling practices.

Opening the conference, Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council, said: “The Irish economy relies heavily on imported materials, so moving towards a circular construction industry is not only critical for protecting the environment, it is also essential for our economic resilience and will help to create innovative new industries.”

Launching the roadmap, Minister James Browne TD stated: “Transitioning to a more circular built environment is critical if Ireland is to affordably deliver the homes and infrastructure we urgently need, while meeting the ambitions laid out in key national development strategies like Project 2040, The National Development Plan, and Housing for All, and reaching its climate targets in a timely manner.”

The most recent census in Ireland indicates that 7.74 per cent of the housing stock –equivalent to 163,433 residential units – is vacant. Notably, over 48,000 units had been unoccupied for six years or more (CSO, 2022).

He added: “I was inspired by the case studies on urban regeneration, timber in construction, and circularity and I would encourage everyone to read the ‘Build a Circular Ireland’ roadmap, and, more importantly, to take action.”

KEY RECOMMENDATIONS

The roadmap, which was developed as part of a research project funded by the Environmental Protection Agency

and co-funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, outlines key recommendations to drive this transition, including:

Value what already exists – maximise the use of existing buildings and infrastructure

Enable circular material flows – support the bioeconomy for construction materials and develop a strong market for high-quality secondary materials

Promote tools that encourage manufacturers and suppliers to take more responsibility for the maintenance, repair and end-of-life of their products, such as Extended Producer Responsibility and Product-as-a-Service schemes

Leverage public and private procurement –use procurement to foster a strong innovation ecosystem, with collaboration across

government, industry, and producers. In Ireland, public bodies spend an estimated €18.5 billion a year on goods, services and works. This provides Ireland’s public sector with significant influence to stimulate and actively encourage circularity.

Dr Mark Kelly, of the Atlantic Technological University Centre for Sustainability and Build360, one of the roadmap’s contributors, said: “The publication of this roadmap marks a pivotal step toward a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. At ATU, we’re proud to support the transition through our Build360 research group, which explores how circular principles can benefit the environment, economy, and society. Rethinking how we design, construct, and reuse our buildings will unlock innovation, lower emissions, and enhance resilience in communities across Ireland.”

L-R: Fintan Smyth, Building Physics Manager of Saint-Gobain; Marion Jammet, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Irish Green Building Council; and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, launching ‘Building a Circular Ireland’ Roadmap at IGBC’s Conference Build Green Now at The Mansion House. Photo credit: Marc O Sullivan

The Future is Electric

Looking to transition towards sustainability?

Discover the emission-free LH 26 Electric, a powerful and eco-friendly alternative to our traditional diesel models. Designed for efficiency and reliability, this electric material handler allows you to reduce your carbon footprint while maintaining the high performance and productivity you expect. Experience electric performance without compromise.

Material Handler LH 26 C Electric

building towards net zero

HOW INVEST NI IS HELPING FIRMS SEIZE OPPORTUNITIES IN THE GREEN ECONOMY

The green economy presents a huge opportunity for Northern Ireland. According to Oxford Economics, it’s a global industry that could generate $10.3 trillion by 2050.

Northern Ireland’s firms are well-placed to become global leaders in the green economy. From large multinationals to micro and SMEs, many are already reducing their carbon footprints while positioning themselves in emerging green markets. With a strong foundation in manufacturing, innovation, and green technology, the region is ready to anchor value in the green economy. This is more than a sector – it’s a global opportunity that touches every part of the economy.

EMPOWERING BUSINESSES TO FOCUS ON GREEN

Invest NI’s 2024–2027 Business Strategy and the Department for the Economy’s economic vision place net zero and renewable energy at the heart of Northern Ireland’s future economic growth.

To support this mission, Invest NI focuses on two key areas – helping firms to go green and enabling them to access global green markets, and raising awareness of opportunities to help businesses position themselves globally.

Invest NI provides a comprehensive range of resources to help businesses at every stage of their sustainability journey. From offering technical advice and developing tailored sustainability plans to providing funding for energy-efficient equipment, Invest NI empowers companies to reduce their carbon footprints and enhance their competitiveness. Its foreign direct investment and trade teams connect local companies with international partners, helping them diversify into new sectors, access alternative funding streams, and meet the growing demand for green products and services.

With this dual focus on sustainability and market positioning, Invest NI ensures that local businesses are prepared to adapt to a net zero future and primed to seize the immense opportunities it brings. This approach aims to solidify Northern Ireland’s reputation as a global hub for green innovation and economic growth.

WHY GREEN MATTERS TO NORTHERN IRELAND

Northern Ireland faces challenges in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving productivity.

Northern Ireland’s Climate Change Act mandates net zero by 2050. To achieve

this target, addressing emissions locally is not enough – what matters is the global cumulative impact, requiring coordinated efforts across industries and governments. While 43.5 per cent of electricity already comes from renewables, Northern Ireland’s overall carbon reductions remain below UK averages. Since 1990, emissions have only fallen by 26.4 per cent, compared to 49.9 per cent across the UK.

There is a growing pressure on businesses to adopt sustainability practices, driven by regulations, customer expectations, and financing requirements.

Large firms are increasingly focusing on Scope 3 supply chain emissions, passing down obligations to their suppliers. For Northern Ireland’s SME landscape, this push makes sustainability more critical than ever. Decarbonisation and addressing Scope 3 supply chain emissions are now crucial factors in business. Larger firms rely heavily on their supply chains to meet these goals, making it essential for businesses of all sizes to adapt. Adopting sustainability practices isn’t just good for the environment – it’s critical for staying competitive. Think of it as a passport for doing business.

building towards net zero

There are two key reasons why businesses must act now:

• Competitiveness – sustainability makes businesses more attractive as partners and supply chain operators

• Opportunity – for the world to decarbonise, there is a need for technologies and services that support the journey to net zero. Renewable energy, green fuels, sustainable water management, and low-carbon retrofitting are just some of the areas ripe for development

By aligning with the global drive toward net zero, Northern Ireland firms can be leaders in sustainable innovation, accessing new markets and unlocking significant economic opportunities.

DRIVING CHANGE THROUGH INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES

Invest NI is driving several initiatives to accelerate Northern Ireland’s green economy and net zero goals.

The Industrial Decarbonisation for Northern Ireland (IDNI) initiative brought together over 220 firms, councils, and government bodies to create a comprehensive plan for reducing industrial carbon emissions. With practical tools like a sustainability toolkit, a knowledge-sharing platform, and real-world examples, the initiative established how businesses can reduce energy costs, improve productivity, and access green investment opportunities.

IDNI has helped companies identify £28 million in potential energy savings. If its recommendations are widely adopted, this could grow to £448 million per year and reduce carbon by 65,600 tCO2e among the 54 participating industrial organisations.

In addition to local efforts, Invest NI is showcasing Northern Ireland’s expertise globally through initiatives such as the Net Zero Exchange Programme.

A delegation of 10 firms and eight stakeholders from government, academia, and business from Northern Ireland to Malaysia and Singapore to demonstrate Northern Ireland’s capabilities in clean water, hydrogen, and decarbonisation technologies. The mission opened doors for trade, collaboration, and investment opportunities, further positioning Northern Ireland as a global force in the green economy.

Closer to home, Invest NI partnered with Northern Ireland Water to highlight the potential for innovation and growth within the water supply chain. This collaboration highlighted opportunities within the water sector, allowing firms to drive innovation, boost productivity, and access new markets across the water supply chain.

In 2024 the US Net Zero Advisory Board was set up with the support of Joe Kennedy III, the former US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs. The board leverages expertise from Northern Ireland’s diaspora to strengthen the region’s position as a global leader in green technology and net zero innovation. Invest NI currently delivers a suite of energy and resource efficiency support for businesses, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable Northern Ireland businesses to become more efficient and resilient through green competences. This support helps businesses to optimise and futureproof their operations by implementing green efficiencies to achieve cost savings and carbon savings.

Through these initiatives, Invest NI is enabling firms to innovate, grow, and position themselves as leaders in the global green economy while advancing Northern Ireland’s sustainable future.

THE

ADVANTAGE OF DUAL MARKET ACCESS

Northern Ireland’s unique dual market access adds further opportunity.

Dual market access gives Northern Ireland manufacturing and construction companies a competitive edge. Northern Ireland is the only region in the world able to trade goods freely with both the GB and EU markets, free from customs declarations, rules of origin certificates and non-tariff barriers. This allows manufacturing and construction companies in the green sector a unique position when trading in a market worth over £6 trillion.

To capitalise on these opportunities, Invest NI is investing in capabilities through City Deals and centres of excellence to ensure businesses are supported to maximise the impact of dual market access.

A CALL TO ACTION

Invest NI can support your journey –whether it’s accessing new markets, growing your business, or showcasing your capabilities globally.

The green economy is not just good for the planet; it is great for business too. Northern Ireland has the talent, resources, and ambition to lead in the global green economy.

For more information, visit the ‘Grow in the Green Economy’ webpage on investni.com.

NUMAC INTRODUCES ECO-CONSCIOUS WASTE COMPACTOR

For more than 40 years Numac Fabrications has been bringing its heritage and experience to the steel fabrication business in Ireland.

Located in Mayobridge, just outside Newry in County Down, the family-run company’s expertise spans the waste management, construction, and food processing sectors, where it delivers custom-designed and precisely-manufactured compactors, containers, skips and multipurpose trailers.

TAILORED TO THE INDUSTRY’S NEEDS

In line with its firmly-cemented reputation in the recycling business across Ireland, the UK, and America, Numac has been expanding its collection of waste compactors – both static and portable units. Helping to bring these products to fruition, as well as ensure that they adhere to industry standards,is Numac’s state-of-the-art facility; equipped with advanced CAD design software, specialised plasma cutting machinery, and comprehensive painting units.

Throughout the process the team collaborates with the client – from

carving out ideas to form a design, to the delivery of the order to the specific site.

“We have two designers working fulltime – one solely focused on compactors, and the other on trailers. They’ve drawn thousands of different designs and are very adaptable to make certain small tweaks to the machines for the client,” said Johnny Maguire, Joint Managing Director of Numac.

A SOLAR-POWERED COMPACTOR

Contributing to wide-scale sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, the Numac team recently created two of its solar-powered waste

compactor for a client – a new and exciting venture for the company.

Johnny reflected: “I thought the process would have been more difficult, but it all went smoothly. Our client approached us – they had previously bought the solarpowered compactors from somebody else in England – but after buying other machines from us, they asked us if we could fulfil the request instead.”

The NP5O SolarPress compactor is a practical portable solution for reducing the size and volume of different types of waste or recyclable materials. Perfect for commercial and industrial waste, it reduces electricity costs, minimises environmental impact, and is ideal for off-grid locations.

Differentiating itself in the market with its environmentally-friendly concept, the solar-powered waste compactor utilises sunlight to operate its compacting mechanisms automatically when needed. Johnny explained: “The compactor contains two batteries which are charged by the solar panels, and we provide a charger too, just in case. They were delivered to our client in April, and they’re very happy.”

The Numac factory’s solar panels.

Numac’s NP5O SolarPress compactor.

The client request wasn’t a surprise for the company – they’ve been witnessing the industry’s burgeoning environmental ethos.

“You’re really starting to see more companies focus on reducing motor sizes in order to save energy. Years ago a lot of motors had big power packs, but by reducing the size, you can still get the same output. Noise is also important to the industry, and you wouldn’t even know the solar panel machines are running, they’re so quiet.”

FUTURE-READY FOOTPRINTS

Since showcasing the new solar-powered compactor, Numac has now had other clients reach out expressing interest. And beyond the new solar-powered waste compactor, Numac has been internally driving environmental practices.

“Last year we installed solar panels on the factory to save both energy and costs, which is important because we’re adding to our machinery all the time.”

Turning to the company’s future plans, Johnny remarked:“Our growth is ongoing and seeing how many machines we’ve made to date is a highlight – about 500 machines in five years. We will also be extending the factory at some point. We currently have 20,000 sq ft here and are intending to add on another 11,500 sq ft. We’re always trying to employ more people too; we have about 55 employees now, whereas 10 years ago we had about 12.”

building towards net zero

BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE WITH NORTHSTONE MATERIALS

Northstone Materials, a CRH company, have supplied the construction industry in Northern Ireland for over 60 years with quality building materials, including ready-mix concrete, concrete blocks, concrete roof tiles, sand, gravel, aggregates, limestone, and asphalt. Their production locations are strategically positioned across the province to provide assurance of stock and speedy delivery.

Northstone Materials recognise that their tradition and heritage come with a responsibility to protect the planet and

enhance the lives of future generations. That’s why they’ve committed to reducing their Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 42 per cent by 2030 (based on a 2021 baseline) – a key milestone on their journey to net zero. However, net zero alone is not enough. To truly make a difference, they know the importance of taking a holistic approach to sustainability, one that not only reduces carbon emissions but also addresses the broader environmental and social challenges facing the industry and society. This belief is what led Northstone Materials to develop their “Framework for a Sustainable Future” – a strategic roadmap that guides their efforts across three core pillars: decarbonisation, circularity, and water. These pillars are supported by strong sustainability foundations: protecting the natural world, supporting their people, and operating as a responsible business. They bring this framework to life through: In-house initiatives that reduce their own environmental impact, and Sustainable solutions that empower their customers to build more responsibly.

Read on to discover how they’re turning ambition into action.

NORTHSTONE MATERIALS’ IN-HOUSE SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

DECARBONISATION

On-site renewable electricity: their 232 kWp solar installation at the Toome Roof Tile Factory generates enough electricity annually to power over 50 homes.

Alternative fuels: they have trialled low-carbon and alternative fuels across their full product portfolio and manufacturing sites to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions.

Energy efficiency: all sites operate with defined energy targets that prompt initiatives like: LED lighting upgrades, compressed air system optimisation, warm mix asphalt production, and employee awareness campaigns.

CIRCULARITY

Reclaimed asphalt paving (RAP): they set internal targets to increase RAP usage, reducing landfill waste and conserving virgin materials.

Natural sand and cement replacements: Northstone Materials promotes alternative materials to reduce reliance on finite resources and lower emissions.

WATER

Rainwater harvesting: their concrete rooftile factory in Toome features a gravity-fed system that significantly reduces mains water use.

NATURAL WORLD

Pollinator support: as a supporter of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, they have implemented several pollinator-friendly initiatives that include the installation of bird houses, creation of bee habitats in waste sand, tree planting and hydroseeding.

Biodiversity action plans: regular biodiversity surveys inform tailored action plans, supported by a central database tracking species and site conditions.

Industry Recognition: Northstone Materials are proud to have received several awards for their sustainability efforts, most recently being shortlisted for the Nature & Biodiversity category at the 2025 Responsible Business Awards.

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS

Thermal liteblock: a next-generation concrete block with enhanced thermal efficiency, reducing building energy use.

Concrete roof tiles: they offer design guidance to maximise carbon savings through optimal colour and profile selection. Their Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) support transparent, data-driven decisions.

CEVO (concrete evolution): their lowcarbon concrete range achieves over 30 per cent embodied carbon reduction.

3D construction printing (3DCP): this innovative concrete supports a modern construction method that drastically reduces waste and energy use.

Sustainable screed solutions: their range includes liquid screeds for faster installation and improved thermal performance, plus quick-drying and traditional options that reduce waste.

Low carbon road solutions: Northstone Materials’ low-carbon asphalt solution meets rigorous performance and durability standards while significantly reducing embodied carbon emissions. These reductions are achieved through several key optimisations, including increased use of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and the adoption of Warm Mix Asphalt technology. Stormwater Management: they supply certified aggregates for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), ensuring effective and compliant stormwater management.

LOOKING AHEAD

Northstone Materials’ work to date is setting the precedent and foundation to continue achieving real and lasting results from embedding sustainability in what they do; they aim to replicate and scale-up this action into the rest of the year and beyond. At Northstone, they are committed to delivering products of the highest quality AND to reducing their impact on climate change, reinforcing their reputation as a trusted provider of superior building products.

www.northstonematerials.com

For more information or to request a concrete carbon footprint report, contact sustainability@northstone-ni.com.

building towards net zero

POWERING THE FUTURE OF QUARRYING: CLEAN, RELIABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Encom Energy is an experienced and certified installer of Solar PV, EV car charger and battery storage systems, with a team boasting over 17 years’ expertise in the solar and battery storage industry.

Operating in the UK and Ireland renewables industry, the team have the knowhow and professionalism to design, supply and install your solar panel and battery system, in both domestic and commercial buildings. With Encom Energy’s knowledge and expertise, they are able to customise and tailor to any Northern Ireland businesses, making their system completely bespoke to the client’s needs.

ADDRESSING THE ENERGY CHALLENGE FOR MINERAL OPERATORS

Encom Energy are equipped to tackle the unique challenges operators face due to energy-intensive processes and rural, grid-limited locations. These include:

• High energy costs – energy prices remain volatile and are a major operational expense, especially for continuous-use equipment

• Grid constraints in rural locations – many sites are off the beaten path, often with single-phase or limited grid capacity, making upgrades costly or unfeasible

• Fluctuating operational demand – machinery, such as crushers, conveyors, and screeners, have inconsistent and peak-heavy power demands, putting stress on supply

• Pressure to decarbonise – environmental compliance, stakeholder expectations, and client procurement standards are pushing the sector toward cleaner energy and reduced emissions

THE OPPORTUNITY AT ENCOM ENERGY – BATTERY STORAGE AND SOLAR

• Solar: offset high daytime usage, reduce grid dependency, and lock in long-term energy savings – especially during daytime operational hours

• Battery storage: store excess solar or cheap off-peak energy and use it when demand spikes – helping you flatten your load profile and dodge peak electricity rates

• DC-to-DC charging: efficiently power electric machinery, plant equipment or fleet vehicles directly from the battery system –eliminating energy waste from conversions and enhancing uptime in remote settings

WHY BATTERY STORAGE IS A GAME-CHANGER

• Store excess solar: all unused solar energy generated during the day will be stored and then can be deployed as necessary i.e. early morning starts or evening operations – maximising system value

• Peak load demand and tariff avoidance: use stored energy to avoid peak-time electricity rates and high NIE and ESB charges – helping smooth demand and reduce overall energy bills

• Battery storage only – in some cases, a PV array may not be practical. Encom Energy’s system allows you to maximise your energy offset, by using the cheaper night rate to charge your battery storage system and draw the power during daytime operation, offsetting your peak time charge, which in some cases may be up to 50 per cent cheaper

• Visual flow: solar → battery → site loads + EV/plant charging

This closed loop keeps energy on-site, boosting efficiency and self-sufficiency

CASE STUDY: BALLYARD FARM, ARMAGH

• Dual 50kW solar panel array setup linked to a tailor-made 60kWh battery storage system

• Return of investment: tailored system delivering a strong ROI of three years through reduced grid reliance and enhanced energy efficiency

• Cost savings: offsetting rising energy costs with better predictability and control –financial benefits already being observed

• Fast installation: complete system – solar and bespoke battery – installed in just seven days, despite remote, single-phase set-up

• Energy generation: reliable, self-generated power that reduces grid dependence and supports year-round operations

• Environmental impact: supporting cleaner agriculture by cutting carbon emissions and reducing fossil fuel use

HOW ENCOM ENERGY WORKS WITH YOU

• Free site assessments: the team visits your site to assess energy

Hannon Transport.

building towards net zero

usage patterns, available space, and infrastructure – no commitment, no cost

• Premises power survey: they analyse your current electrical supply, load behaviour, and capacity – helping identify bottlenecks and opportunities for smarter power management

• Feasibility studies and financial modelling: Encom Energy models your expected energy generation, savings, and return on investment – tailored to your operational profile and tariffs

• Turnkey install and maintenance: they manage the full process — from grid

applications and planning to installation, commissioning, and long-term servicing

• Ongoing monitoring, support and upgrades: you get real-time system performance monitoring and lifetime technical support, plus upgrade pathways as tech evolves

WHAT ENCOM ENERGY CAN OFFER

Encom Energy can offer fully-funded solar installation with one set price per kwh fixed between 15-to-25 years, no deposit required.

• Solar panel installation: funded solar installation with industry-leading performance warranty for 30 years

• Custom system design: solar panel system designed to maximise electricity generation from your site

• Installation, maintenance and ownership: full operation and maintenance For the duration of agreement

• Ownership: full ownership after agreement with the option to continue servicing agreement

• Additional benefits: potential add on benefits, such as battery storage to maximise your savings

• Fix your energy price throughout the agreement: fixed price per kwh during the agreement

Ballyard Farm.

Magherafelt Business Park.

ULSTER SHREDDERS ADVANCES

GOALS WITH SOLAR INVESTMENT AND ISO 14001 ACCREDITATION

Ulster Shredders, a leading manufacturer

underlining its dedication to environmental responsibility and continuous improvement.

The new solar installation is expected to significantly reduce the company’s carbon footprint by offsetting a large portion of its electricity consumption with clean, renewable energy.

This initiative is part of Ulster Shredders’ broader environmental strategy to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and support a circular economy.

“We are committed to building a more sustainable future not just through our operations, but also through the solutions we provide to our customers,” said Enda Cushnahan, Managing Director at Ulster Shredders.

“Achieving ISO 14001 certification and investing in renewable energy is a testament to our proactive approach to environmental stewardship.”

GLOBAL SUPPORT

In addition to its sustainability milestones, Ulster Shredders continues to support businesses across the globe in repurposing and recovering valuable commodity materials through its comprehensive product range. The company’s high-performance shredders are used in a variety of industries for processing materials, such as:

• Paper and cardboard

• Plastics and packaging waste

• Textiles and synthetic fibres

• Electronic and data storage devices

• Wood and timber

• Metals and alloys

These solutions help clients divert waste from landfill, comply with data destruction regulations, and unlock the value in recyclable

Cogry Works 65

building towards net zero

materials – making Ulster Shredders a vital partner in the drive toward a circular and resource-efficient economy.

For over 50 years, Ulster Shredders has delivered robust, customised shredding solutions to businesses across the UK, Ireland, Europe, and beyond, with a reputation built on quality engineering, customer support, and innovation.

For more information, contact Ulster Shredders by emailing info@ulstershredders. com or calling 028796 50050.

BESPOKE SHREDDING SYSTEMS

ENGINEERING NET ZERO EXCELLENCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT SECTOR

In a sector often viewed as difficult to decarbonise, Pat O’Donnell & Co. have emerged as a powerful example of how strategic vision, bold investment, and operational discipline can drive real sustainability in industrial settings.

Operating throughout the island of Ireland in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Portadown, the company have been on a determined net zero journey since 2019, with carbon emissions reduction and energy efficiency at the core of its strategy.

CARBON EMISSIONS

Between 2019-to-2023, Pat O’Donnell & Co. achieved:

• An 80 per cent reduction in Scope 1 emissions by switching to ISCC-certified HVO fuel

• A 69 per cent reduction in Scope 2 emissions through major solar power installations

• A 56 per cent overall emissions reduction across all scopes — independently verified

These results place Pat O’Donnell & Co. as the sustainability leader in Ireland’s construction equipment industry.

INFRASTRUCTUREFABRIC UPGRADES, HEAT PUMPS AND POWER

At Pat O’Donnell & Co. they didn’t just target emissions — they have upgraded and modernised their infrastructure to permanently reduce energy consumption.

In 2024 / 2025, Pat O’Donnell & Co. have successfully completed energy retrofits at all four branches further enhancing their efficiency targets, including:

• Kingspan insulated roofing and external cladding

• New energy-efficient windows and doors

• Internal insulation and airtightness improvements

• Heat pumps replacing existing kerosene / gas systems, operating at 350–400 per cent efficiency and slashing energy use

SOLAR – RENEWABLE ENERGY

• 300kWp in Dublin

• 115kWp in Cork

• 120kWp in Galway

• 15 kWp Portadown

GOVERNANCE – SCOPE 3 7 SUPPLY CHAIN INTEGRITY

Recognising that sustainability extends beyond operational boundaries, Pat O’Donnell & Co. has aligned all sites with ISO 14001 and is advancing toward full ISO 45001 certification. They have also adopted EcoVadis-aligned ESG policies, including:

• A Supplier Sustainable Procurement questionnaire and policy

• A formalised approved ESG-compliant supplier database

• Improved tracking and reporting of Scope 3 emissions

This proactive approach enhances transparency, resilience, and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

OFFSETTING WITH NATURE – GORTMORE PROJECT

To complement engineered reductions, the company acquired land at Gortmore, licensed for reforestation. Once planted, the site will sequester CO₂ over the next 30 yearssupporting biodiversity, air quality, and climate goals.

RECOGNITION

In 2024, Pat O’Donnell & Co.’s efforts were recognised with:

• Environmental Initiative of the YearConstruction & Civil Engineering Awards

• Net Zero Initiative of the Year AwardAll Ireland Sustainability Awards

These awards are a reflection of the company’s industry-leading progress and continued leadership in this area.

A COMMITMENT THAT CONTINUES

At Pat O’Donnell & Co. the team remain fully committed to achieving net zero as a core value. From solar to supply chains, from heat pumps to forestry, every decision reinforces the belief that sustainability is not just good for the planet – it’s good business. The company are also leading the charge when it comes to the supply of sustainable machinery through their Volvo, Senneboggen and Volvo Penta products. They have a range of both electric and HVO ready machines that they are delighted to share and discuss with customers.

The journey isn’t over – but the foundation is rock solid.

NET ZERO PATH TO DECARBONISE THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

USING VALORISED WASTE AND SUSTAINABLE CONCRETE

Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast in partnership with the Agri-Food Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Renewable United Ltd (RUL), Mineral Products Association NI, Mannok Build, Breedon Group, Irish Cement and Northstone NI, have achieved a breakthrough in the production of low carbon concrete whilst advancing the circular economy. The research funded by the Centre for Advanced Sustainable Energy (CASE) through the Green Innovation Challenge Fund has shown the potential to reduce the carbon impact of rooftile production by at least 20 per cent.

The Northern Ireland Assembly passed the Climate Change Act in June 2022; creating a target for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with action plans developed to deliver this target for each of the key contributing sectors.

Previous work conducted by CASE has evaluated the opportunity to decarbonise the energy sector, identifying the potential for 80 per cent of the current gas demand to be met from fossil-free sources such as animal slurries and excess grass silage via the anaerobic digestion (AD) process. In the AD process, organic materials break down in the absence of oxygen to form biogas; a mixture of gases primarily comprising carbon dioxide and methane which can be upgraded to biomethane which is chemically identical to the natural gas in the current gas grid. The residue from the AD process is rich in nutrients and requires management to prevent negative environmental impacts due to nutrient run off such as the eutrophication

events witnessed in Lough Neagh and other inland water bodies in the region. One possible option is the pyrolysis process to produce biochar. During pyrolysis, materials rich in organic matter is subjected to heat treatment (550 to 650 C) in the absence or limited supply of oxygen yielding gas (syngas) and a porous solid (biochar) as major product. By altering the process factors, such as temperature, retention time, oxygen flow rate, and feedstock type, the composition and properties of the biochar can be customised to suit a variety of differing needs.

However, the feedstock type is the most dominant influencing factor in terms of final biochar characteristics. Biochars made from ‘clean’ sources such as wood shavings and crop residues have found uses such as charcoal like fuels, filters for wastewater treatment and as soil amendments to improve soil fertility and carbon capture. However, due to its higher mineral content, biochars from digestate are less suitable for these applications.

Channelling the AD digestate biochar into concrete production could not only

reduce the material requirement but also increases the embodied carbon of concrete facilitating further emissions reduction.

An initial analysis on the AD digestate biochar revealed that, apart from carbon the presence of other elements (Calcium, Silicon and Aluminium) has been found to be in higher proportions that could enhance supplementary cementitious mineral formations in the biochar concrete products. Despite being normally perceived as a filler material in concrete, biochar could serve as a reactive entity to influence colour and mineral formations, to attain early strength and long-term durability, and to produce selfrepair concrete products. In the context of Northern Ireland, producing biochar-based concrete products helps to decentralise the agricultural waste management, handling and processing, and serves as an effective resource consumption tool through crosssectoral collaboration. From the lab scale tests, the research team have optimised the proportion of biochar in concrete production still adhering to the industry standards. The construction sector is responsible for about eight per cent global CO2 emissions and up to 900 kt CO2e in Northern Ireland annually. Several factory trials have been completed to produce non-structural precast mixes, specifically roof tiles which have achieved up to 20 per cent reduction in carbon emissions. Further scaling up and technological improvements are ongoing in order to help UK achieve its net zero targets by 2050. As the Northern Ireland’s economy is primarily agriculture-based, incorporation of biochar made from digestate into concrete products presents a solution to the nutrient bottleneck of the agri sector’s waste management and aids the move towards circularity and sustainability.

Biochar roof tile manufacturing in the factory.

Mix optimisation at QUB Civil Engineering laboratory.

building towards net zero

KUBOTA LAUNCHES ELECTRIC RETROFIT SOLUTION FOR KX019-4 AND U27-4 EXCAVATORS

Kubota, a renowned leader in the construction industry, is now making bold strides forward with a groundbreaking innovation in electric excavator design.

ELECTRIC RETROFIT SOLUTION

Kubota first introduced its prototype 2.5 tonne electric excavator at Intermat in 2012, marking the beginning of its journey into electrification within the construction industry. Now, the company is taking another significant step forward by unveiling an electric retrofit option for the KX019 (1.8-tonne) and U27-4 (2.5-tonne) diggers. This innovative concept aims to make the transition to electric equipment more accessible and practical for the construction industry.

EASING THE TRANSITION TO ELECTRIC

With global demand for sustainable alternatives on the rise, Kubota is addressing a key industry need: reusability and longevity of machinery. The new solution enables customers to replace the standard diesel engine of their excavator with a modular battery pack. Alternatively, machines can be fitted with the battery

pack from new and later swapped out for a diesel engine or vice versa.

Cost has always been a barrier to adopting electric machinery. But with this retrofit solution, customers gain flexibility. They can enjoy the low running costs of electric and still have the option to switch to diesel if necessary. It’s about providing choice and easing the transition to a greener future.

Kubota’s solution also notably reduces maintenance costs and operational overheads. With no engine and associated components, servicing time and expenses are considerably reduced, saving customers both time and money. Additionally, with electricity costing far less than fossil fuels, it offers a highly economical advantage. But this isn’t all, the retrofit solution delivers low noise levels, making it ideal for urban environments and indoor applications. Noise levels at the operator station is significantly lower compared to the diesel equivalent, enabling better communication and safety with co-workers. Quiet operation also allows for longer working days, maximising time on-site and accelerating project timelines. Kubota’s solution addresses the unique needs of construction operators, recognising that many machines only operate for a few hours a day, often less than two hours. The battery pack’s runtime

aligns with this usage, and with the ability to top up charges throughout the day, working hours can be easily extended. While electric models are yet to dominate the market, Kubota’s approach is focused and practical, aimed at providing an easier path to adopting electric technology without abandoning the flexibility of existing diesel set-ups. By offering a solution that bridges the gap between traditional and electric machinery, Kubota is making significant strides towards a more sustainable industry. The electric retrofit is expected to roll-out throughout 2025.

ABOUT KUBOTA

Kubota has been a leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment, construction equipment, lawn-mowers and industrial engines since 1890. With its global headquarters in Osaka Japan, offices in more than 120 countries, and more than 55,000 employees in North America, Europe and Asia. Although machinery equipment is its main products line, Kubota also produces a wide range of products such as city water purification systems, irrigation systems, piping systems, roof and home construction, and large underground valves.

RETROFIT

The retrofit solution for your existing KX019-4 & U27-4 machines. Do you need to switch to Electric? Do it the Kubota way.

FIND OUT MORE

Contact your local dealer today

GROUNDFORCE SHORCO’S CARBON CALCULATOR FOR TEMPORARY WORKS: AN ASSET FOR THE INDUSTRY

Specialist shoring supplier Groundforce Shorco’s carbon calculator is a valuable tool for temporary works – not just for customers but the shoring industry as a whole.

This altruistic offer is part of the Vp plc subsidiary’s commitment to reaching net zero by 2050 and has been a success

since its establishment, when it began including embodied carbon estimates, comprising an embodied carbon component and a transport component, on all temporary works designs.

Carbon reporting for the design of permanent structures has already been reasonably well-adopted by the industry,

and embodied carbon databases are now justly established. However, for temporary works, this presented Groundforce Shorco and its customers with a unique challenge.

Oliver J Smith, Head of Engineering Design at Groundforce Shorco, explained that temporary works do not have the same impact as a permanent part of the structure as the products and components are often re-used, so it is already appreciated there is a sustainable element.

If the total embodied carbon for a brace or strut was calculated, this would be counted numerous times on each site it visits. But although they are re-used, this does not mean they are zero carbon either. They still need counting, because if they were not being used in such projects, they would likely never have been produced at all. So, Groundforce Shorco has developed a methodology that allows its customers to estimate their ‘share’ of the embodied carbon for what they are hiring, based on how long they hire it for. To do this, the company considers the embodied carbon in its entire fleet, its life expectancy and its average utilisation, to calculate a weekly C02e per unit weight of either steel or aluminium. This can then easily be multiplied by the number of weeks on hire to provide a total embodied C02e which can be combined with the quoted transportation C02e to provide them with a value for use in their project. They then find that for very short duration hires, the bulk of the C02e sits within transport,

and as the hire duration increases, more of the impact comes from the product itself.

Groundforce Shorco has made freely available, a detailed technical guide for the calculation, sharing the methodology, the data, the assumptions made, and the reasoning behind it.

Oliver J Smith said: “This methodology is free to access for all and we would like to encourage others in the fleet rental and temporary works markets to consider

this when establishing methods for C02e calculations. We believe this is a positive step in leading to sustainable improvements within our industry and would welcome an open dialogue to develop this further.

“Calculating the carbon footprint of the projects we work on is essential to reducing our impact on our planet. It allows us to make informed decisions about what we will build and how we will build it to meet the pressing need to cut carbon emissions across the world.”

Past President Karen McShane

MAKING THE LINK: THE NEW NARROW WATER BRIDGE

The Shared Island Fund has provided the majority funding for the new Narrow Water Bridge connecting the Mourne Mountains in County Down with the Cooley Peninsula in County Louth. When complete, the 195m cable-stayed bridge will connect Cornamucklagh near Omeath, with Narrow Water near Warrenpoint, where Carlingford Lough meets the Newry River. It is designed for vehicular, cycle and pedestrian traffic and will connect the A2 Newry to Warrenpoint dual carriageway with the R173 Omeath. This month I had the pleasure of a tour with both Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation and BAM’s project manager, William Diver.

Taoiseach Simon Harris, Tánaiste Micheál Martin and Minister Malcolm Noonan visited the site in June 2024 to announce that construction was commencing. They were joined by the then Northern Ireland Minister for Infrastructure John O’Dowd MLA. The landmark Narrow Water Bridge is a longstanding commitment of both governments, reflected in the Programme for Government and New Decade, New Approach agreement. An allocation of €102 million + VAT is being made from the Shared Island Fund for the contract to deliver this project.

The structure consists of a two-span cable-stayed bridge of an asymmetric arrangement with a total bridge structure length of approx. 195m. The northern span of the bridge will be a rolling bascule movable

span providing, when opened, an unlimited vertical clearance for at least a 20m wide navigational channel to allow for the passage of ships through and on to the Newry Canal.

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

Having previously worked on the Carlingford Tourism Ferry project I have come to understand the role that connecting communities on both sides of Carlingford Lough has in creating opportunities for local tourism, as well as the local economy by providing an increase in visitor footfall and employment levels.

The previous Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd at the launch of the project said: “It is a perfect example of the difference infrastructure projects can make in people’s lives.”

BAM were appointed last year to commence works and brought their experience of similar construction projects such as the River Suir Waterford Bridge, The Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge over the River Barrow in County Kilkenny built as part of the N25 New Ross Bypass, and The Cross Tay Link Road Bridge which opened in March 2025 in Perth, Scotland. Driving from the new roundabout that has been created on the Omeath Road one can visually see the piles protruding above the waterline in the Channel. These were completed working around a very restrictive ecological window in spring this year. Work has now moved to the creation of the control room and a circa 20m deep excavation to

Members of CIHT and Engineers Ireland visiting the bridge. All views expressed are personal views of Karen McShane and not necessarily those of any organisation in which she is involved

house the bridge bearing, plant and parts of the lifting bridge bascule structure. It was this element that proved the most interesting as we descended the equivalent of a five-storey building into the bowels of the earth. The piling and dewatering of the excavation in a live channel are an engineering feat.

DESIGNED WITH IMPACT

Once completed the structure will be 98m in height and will be taller than Ireland’s largest building at the Obel tower in Belfast which was completed in 2010. The main elements of the bridge are already under manufacture in Belgium by Aetlerman and will be delivered to Northern Ireland by barge in four sections around early 2027. The largest section is 2,600 tonnes and has been designed to be transported to Warrenpoint Harbour from where it will be moved to the site along the A2 and trolleyed into place. Anyone that has watched Massive Moves on television will gain an appreciation as to how difficult these types of moves are. The design has allowed only about a foot (30cm) of space between the structure and the street lighting columns on the A2. This will be conducted by Sarens, a specialist transportation contractor, and will be a massive move for Northern Ireland.

Having worked as part of the transportation team on the design of Belfast’s Waterfront Hall

in 1996 I vividly remember the contracting team hiring two 500t cranes to lift the roof sections in place. These had to come from Great Britain as at that time Ireland did not have the lifting capacity. Contrast this with the 900t, 1000t and 2600t sections that will be transported across the sea to Warrenpoint and then manoeuvred in to place and you start to gain an appreciation of the significance of such a build. The bridge itself is a bascule bridge (also referred to as a lifting

bridge) and is a moveable bridge with a concrete counterweight that continuously balances the span or leaf throughout its upward swing to provide clearance for boat traffic.

The name comes from the French term for balance scale which employs the same principle. Bascule bridges are the most common type of movable span because they open quickly and require relatively little energy to operate, while providing the possibility for unlimited vertical

clearance for marine traffic. The design of this structure should allow the bridge to open and close in less than two minutes and would not be much more of a delay than we usually experience waiting at a busy traffic light junction – a great feat of engineering linking two parts of this island across a busy channel.

A GAME-CHANGING PROJECT

At the launch, the Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris said: “The Shared Island Unit was set up by the coalition for this very reason – to bring about visionary projects for the whole island that had long been sought after but not yet realised. I want to pay tribute to the communities and politicians from all parties and none in both Ireland and Northern Ireland who campaigned for a Narrow Water Bridge for decades. The mountains meet the sea all along this stretch of stunning coastline and this bridge will be a game-changer for commerce, daily life and tourism in this part of our shared island.”

As I visited the site almost a year after the launch the connectivity is already very visible and I have no doubt this will create a new tourism route through both the Cooley’s and the Mournes and is reminiscent of the linkage the peace bridge had across the Foyle connecting two different communities, another bridge that has created a new tourism trail.

Karen at the new piled bridge foundations in Carlingford.

Members of CIHT and EI at the base of the Caission.

View from Omeath with the historic stone lighting tower to the left.

Steel reinforcing at the base of the Caisson in Carlingford Lough.

The designers’ visual impression of the completed bridge.

Members of CIHT and Engineers Ireland visiting the bridge.

Waterford Company Fined €150,000 After Worker Struck and Killed by Large Portion of Masonry From a Wall

At Waterford Central Court, Judge Eugene O’Kelly imposed a fine of €150,000 on a company who had earlier pleaded guilty to charges in breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013.

The case arose following the authority’s investigation of an accident that occurred when an employee of the company was struck by a large portion of masonry from a wall under demolition in Waterford City and died on site as a result of the injuries he sustained.

The company pleaded guilty to failing to manage and conduct work activities in such a way as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of employees in breach of Section 8(1) of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 8(2) (a) of the said Act and contrary to Sections 77 (2)(a) and 78 (2) of the Safety Health and Welfare of Work Act 2005; The particulars being failing to have any or any adequate exclusion area for the demolition of the concrete block wall which was being carried out at a premises, it being a place of work under their control. It was

on this charge that the judge imposed a fine of €150,000. The company also pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that two persons in their employment at a premises, which place being a place of work under their control and being works to whom Regulation 4(2) of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013 applied, were in possession of a valid Safety Awareness Registration Card referred to in Schedule 4 of the said Regulations, namely a Safe Pass Registration Card, thus being in breach of Regulation 25(1)(a) of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013. Contrary to Section 77(2)

Kildare Company Fined €75,000 After Worker Was Struck and Killed by Rotating Robotic Arm

A Co. Kildare-based company was recently fined €75,000, plus costs of €4,057, in Naas Circuit Court.

During previous court dates, the company pleaded guilty to breaches of charges under health and safety legislation, and

having heard the evidence, mitigation and victim impact statements, the judge delivered her reserved judgement.

The employee was fatally injured while operating equipment under the control of the company. He had entered into

(c) of the Safety Health and Welfare Act 2005, this charge was taken into account.

Mark Cullen, Assistant Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority, said: “Employers are obligated to ensure that workers do not suffer injury or ill-health as a result of their work. Failure to do so in this case has tragically led to the fatality of a worker. Demolition work is a high-risk activity, and it is vital that employers carry out a risk assessment and provide an adequate exclusion zone to ensure all employees are protected. We urge employers to have a safe system of work in place and clearly communicate it to all workers.”

the danger zone through a retrofitted gate which by-passed all the integral safety protective features of the plant when he was struck and fatally injured by a rotating robotic arm.

Mark Cullen, said: “In today’s workplaces it is not unusual for advanced technology and robotic equipment to be utilised. Employers must ensure that all inbuilt safety protective devices are in good working order and that employees are not put in danger by unsafe work practices which bypass these crucial safety devices. In this case, the bypassing of these safety protective devices resulted in a fatal incident that tragically was entirely foreseeable and preventable.”

CP Hire Plant & Tool Hire Northern Ireland specialises in plant, tool, powered access and site cabin hire. Established in 1971 and with seven depots throughout Northern Ireland, our experienced team are on hand to help and advise on the most suitable equipment rental for your project.

CP HIRE: YOUR PARTNER FOR PROJECT PRODUCTIVITY

The plant hire industry represents a core – and continually evolving –component of the wider construction landscape; vital for supporting building and infrastructure pursuits, and providing contractors with flexible, timely, cost-effective access to machinery and equipment.

Closer to home, CP Hire has been bolstering the ability of the industry to carry out its work for over 50 years. The team has long been committed to serving the plant and tool hire sector through its wellestablished specialisation in the rental of a wide range of equipment, including plant machinery, hand tools, powered access solutions, and site cabins.

Initial inspiration for the company was ignited in 1971. Due to this long-standing presence in the sector, coupled with its extensive inventory, CP Hire currently boasts seven strategically-located depots throughout the region – ensuring that customers have convenient access to the equipment they need, when they need it.

Andrew Hutchinson, Managing Director at CP Hire, said: “CP Hire has been in business for 54 years, and a lot of our customer loyalty throughout this time has not just been as a result of the high-quality

equipment, but the levels of customer service. With seven depots across the province, we strive to have somebody on-site within one hour of a breakdown.

“A lot of the jobs in the industry require a one-day or two-day hire, and with our coverage we’re able to co-ordinate that quickly, whereas others may not be able to.”

AN EXPANDING RANGE

The broad scope of CP Hire’s range is reflective of the industry’s multifaceted needs. The remit of reliable equipment for hire features access tools, breakers, mixers, compressors, diggers, forklifts, generators, heating, lifting gear, site accessories, fencing, lighting, trailers, and more, to support projects through each stage of their progression.

“We are always replenishing our excavator fleet to keep it up-to-date and fresh, and have also been reacting to the demand for support and access equipment – that market has seen massive growth for us,” explained Andrew.

“Our cab dumpers are becoming more and more popular, too. We’ve had them for a long time but are upping the volume in our fleet to be able to offer more – especially with changing legislation on dumper production.”

Other notable advancements include CP Hire’s recent attainment of more Manitou access equipment from Northern Lift Trucks, in addition to its expansion of welfare units – with 20 new ecospec Groundhog welfare units arriving throughout this year. The company’s portable toilets provision is also surging.

“For 30 years we have been an agent for David Johnston, but now we’ve brought

in portable toilets of our own. They’re brand new toilets – fresh, of highquality – and it’s an area of business which has been very well-received.”

With sustainability considerations now intertwined with the industry, CP Hire knows the importance of eco-friendly specs being incorporated within the company’s products: “We have a lot of contractors who are stipulating now that they must have eco welfare toilet systems,” explained Andrew.

ABOVE AND BEYOND

Behind CP Hire’s provisions for hire is a team equipped with the expertise to steer clients towards what they need for their specific project requirements,

as well as offer plant insurance-related advice and support. From small-scale renovations, to considerable construction undertakings, CP Hire’s customer service ensures that clients receive the right tools and machinery to complete their work effectively, and, crucially, safely.

As well as garnering significant customer retention, CP Hire’s staff have remained loyal to the company.

“We’re all about our staff at CP Hire – we have so many members who have been with us long-term. In fact, within the team, a huge number have been with the business 25-plus years, like Richard Hunter who has been here for 53 years,” said Andrew.

plant hire

CHANGES AND CHALLENGES

Given the plant hire industry’s everexpansive nature, CP Hire knows that it’s crucial that the company is adaptive to the emerging trends and challenges.

Speaking on these, Andrew said: “The cost of new machinery has risen, so now people who traditionally may have purchased it are turning to the hire industry. The challenge we’re facing is aligning the hire rates with the purchase prices of the equipment.

“There’s a high level of competition – Northern Ireland is so small, so you have to stay ahead of the game with your equipment and service. But what’s important are the levels of service and value for money, rather than being the cheapest.”

Andrew Hutchinson, CP Hire, receiving a batch of Manitou equipment from Richard Sloan, Northern Lift Trucks.

plant hire ONWARD AND UPWARD AT RMP HIRE

“The only way is up,” enthuses Ray Vaughan when Plant & Civil Engineer catches up with the RMP Hire Managing Director to discuss the company’s progress to date and next steps – and the subsequent conversation does certainly solidify that assertion. As a thriving business providing personalised service, tailored solutions and quality equipment to the building and construction industry, RMP Hire is considered a onestop shop for its customers, and in the 2024 Plant & Civil

Engineer Awards secured the Excellence in Customer Service accolade.

Striving to deliver all of the client’s necessary answers and support, the RMP Hire team frequently collaborates with builders, landscapers, tradespeople, and homeowners to provide the right equipment exactly when and where it’s needed. In particular, the company has found that utilities services and data centres make up a significant proportion of the excavator and access equipment segments – the team has 100 or so machines across the data centres around Dublin, including the Amazon and Intel brands.

LOOKING BACK

It was just over three years ago when Ray first established the company and worked on his own for its initial six months of existence. The growth trajectory has been impressive since – particularly in terms of the team that now work alongside Ray.

“RMP Hire started off with just me in 2022 and two scissor lifts. We now have over 250 access machines and seven in the team who

have over 100 years of combined experience in the industry. We’re also currently advertising for another two people, as well as an apprentice, and are hoping to have them on-board within the next two months,” Ray explained.

Boasting a clear vision to deliver first-class service, RMP Hire’s dedicated plant mechanics specialise in powered access, excavators, and dumpers, and are supported by a fulltime sales manager, however the plans for team expansion aren’t without its obstacles.

“The team I work with now are people I have worked with before in the past, and I know that I can trust them to grow the company. The main challenge is that a lot of people have now left the industry to go and work for data centres and as engineers. We’re trying to find the right experienced people which is harder than it used to be.”

TOP-TIER MACHINERY

Threaded through RMP Hire’s early days to its presence today has been a determination to optimise the tasks and projects undertaken by its clients. To

realise this objective, Ray says that RMP Hire has “one of the freshest fleets in the industry.”

“A good 70 per cent of our machinery is less than six months old. We expanded rapidly in January and placed significant orders with Zoomlion and Skyjack and continue to update our fleet regularly. Anything that gets to three years old, we tend to refresh.”

The fleet in question includes “a full range of booms, a full range of scissor lifts, and a lot of plant equipment – from a drill up to the six tonne dumpers.”

This is as well as cleaning gear, compaction and concreting machinery, DIY supplies, diggers, gardening and landscaping equipment, generators, height and access solutions, power supplies, pumps, sanders, saws, and trailers, and more.

AN EFFICIENT HIRING EXPERIENCE

RMP Hire’s Dublin-based location has been advantageous in facilitating custom and making the hire process as easy as possible for the industry, too. The company’s main Clonshaugh

depot is located with quick and easy access to M50, M1 and five minutes from Dublin Airport, which is a key factor for RMP Hire’s customer base.

“We have a lot of long-term hires. We only have a small customer base compared to a lot of other companies, but they are very loyal customers. They know that they can text me at 10pm on a Sunday night and get a machine the next morning,” said Ray.

“We have a lot of reactive customers who can’t plan their work and, for example, repair damaged shutters or doors at high-end buildings. They need to go somewhere where they know they can get a machine within a couple of hours and that’s why they come to us.”

THE NEXT PHASE OF GROWTH

As for the company’s next strategic moves, Wogan Build Centre has announced

the integration of RMP Hire into its group, representing a significant growth in its service capabilities within the Irish construction sector.

Ray concluded with: “The Wogan Build Centre ethos of putting the customer first and striving for service excellence matches ours. We are excited to join the WBC leadership team and look forward to expanding our team, fleet, and market reach in this next phase of growth.”

storage vessels

EUROFAB IS SETTING A NEW SILO STANDARD

STRUCTURE BY STRUCTURE

2025 represents a milestone year for Eurofab Engineering Structures – the Dungannon-based company is marking its 25th year in operation. Primarily focussed on the design and manufacture of large storage vessels for the cement and concrete industries, the organisation has attained consistent success since its beginnings, and currently commands a significant proportion of Europe’s bulk storage vessel market share.

Adding to the company’s portfolio of ambitious endeavours, Eurofab recently exported one of the largest storage vessels manufactured in Northern Ireland, and the Plant & Civil Engineer team were fortunate to be able to visit their premises to discuss the remarkable achievement with the lead group, James Mallon, Martin McKenna, and his son, Paul.

GLOBAL SOLUTIONS, LOCAL EXPERTISE

As a prominent leader in the industry – working across the concrete, cement storage and nuclear, offshore sectors – Eurofab provide high-quality design, precision fabrication, and manufacture of high-specification support structures.

Crucially, the company’s standing as a trusted provider has been elevated as a result of the long-term experience possessed by the team at the helm of it.

Martin explained: “Eurofab started back in 2000 with James and myself – although we had both been in the quarrying industry for 25 / 30 years before that.

Initially, we started out making silos and quarry plant, but in about 2011 we really started developing the silo side of the business and that’s now our main focus.

“We’re probably one of the biggest silo manufacturer in Europe at the minute.”

The robust and reliable solutions in question incorporate vertical and horizontal silo options, catering specifically to the complex requirements of clients both domestically and on the international stage: “We’ve exported silos to Australia, most of Europe, GB, and North Africa, as well as many other locations, even to offshore wind farm facilities,” said Martin.

The company offers mild steel silos from 20m³ to 300m³, suitable for storing materials like wood pellets, cement, lime, OPC, PFA, GGBS, and other products requiring durable, cost-effective storage. They can be supplied with filters, aeration, level indicators, and dischargers, adhering to the client’s needs, while custom vertical and horizontal silo solutions are also available, designed and built in-house.

AN UNPRECEDENTED SCALE

Throughout every stage of the client’s journey with Eurofab, the team of professionals are

The biggest silo the team have manufactured yet.

storage vessels

on hand to assist and advise – from specification and design, right through to manufacturing. It is this multifaceted approach which has prompted the custom of many esteemed customers – including their recent client project. A tremendous feat, this was the largest silo that Eurofab have completed thus far, comprising of a five-metre diameter and 18 metres length.

Speaking about the mammoth undertaking, Paul said: “It was a big project and there was a lot involved in it – from the design stage right through to the end. The vessel is for an energy from waste plant in Scotland and this is the second in the series following our completion of another job for the client’s sister company in the Wirral during lockdown. It takes all of the bin waste and processes it – creating electricity, steam and hot water for housing developments around the whole area. There are by-products of the process and that’s what is being

captured in the silo and can be used as a binder for low carbon cement products.”

After the client confirmed the order back in January, the Eurofab team got to work fulfilling the specific requirements based on the received drawings –modifying when necessary, and ensuring consistent communication during each step. Once completed, logistics had to be put in place to match the magnitude of the silo – this necessitated outsidethe-box delivery considerations.

“The silo was so large, it needed a special trailer to be delivered – and there are probably only one or two of these trailers in the whole of the UK and Ireland. It had a police escort the whole way and involved road closures,” reflected Paul.

ANOTHER LEVEL

As well as the quality of completion and customer service, what else can be attributed to the 35-member

company’s success in the construction, biomass and agricultural sectors?

“We’re very tactical – we supply everything finished and wired to our customers. All of the components are included. It’s not just a basic silo – all the add-ons are supplied by us too. It’s an all-round service,” said Martin.

With the demand for Eurofab’s silos everincreasing, the team are ensuring that their future plans mean they continue to be fully equipped to meet the sustained custom.

“We’re hoping to expand and develop a bigger site as we are currently creating up to 200 silos a year,” confirmed Martin.

Eurofab’s Paul McKenna, Martin McKenna, and James Mallon.

HYUNDAI EXCAVATORS FIRST CHOICE FOR HAWKES DEMOLITION

With plant hire, demolition, earthworks and transport divisions, including sweeper and tipper hire, Hawkes Group has created a one-stop-shop for customers that require reliable construction machinery on a nationwide basis. Working across commercial, industrial and residential sectors, the Kettering-based company has recently added two Hyundai Construction Equipment HX220AL crawler excavators to its rapidly growing fleet of equipment.

“Hawkes Demolition purchased its first Hyundai excavator in 2018 and the brand has been a consistent part of our fleet ever since,” said Reece Hawkes, Managing Director of Hawkes Demolition.

“We operate 34 Hyundai excavators across the business, currently ranging from 13-tonnes to 30-tonnes. That number continues to grow, as we expand our operations and invest in reliable, well-supported equipment.”

The company’s fleet also includes a range of mobile crushing and screening equipment, along with smaller non-operated machinery, like rollers, site dumpers and an extensive line-up of attachments. All of the firm’s

Hyundai machines have been provided by local dealer, Willowbrook Plant.

Hawkes Demolition was formed in 2015 and the business boasts an experienced team of operators, supervisors and management, capable of handling a wide range of demolition projects. That includes the professional removal of hazardous waste, such as asbestos and old fuel tanks.

The group also has a bulk earthworks business, equipped to design and deliver a variety of earthworks projects, with support from the transport division.

“Most recently, we’ve added two new HX220ALs to our fleet of excavators. Hyundai has always delivered a strong balance of performance and value, which has been a key factor in our continued investment,” said Reece Hawkes.

The HX220AL is a 22-tonne conventional tailswing crawler excavator, powered by a 129kW (173hp) Cummins B6.7 Stage V diesel engine. Equally at home in construction, earthmoving and demolition work, the A-Series machine benefits from Electronic Pump Flow Control (EPFC) hydraulics, providing the operator with maximum controllability.

All Hyundai A-Series crawler excavators feature a comfortable cab, with automatic climate control and an air suspended seat, that can be heated as an option.

The machines benefit from Hyundai’s Hi-Mate telematic system, which helps customers to see, in real-time, how their equipment is performing. The system also provides remote diagnosis and positioning information.

Hawkes Group is continuing to invest to meet the needs of customers in all areas of the business. With such a strong relationship with Hyundai and Willowbrook, the company is now expanding into other machine categories.

“We’ve placed an order for the first Hyundai dozer to enter the UK through our dealer Willowbrook Plant. It will be joining our contracting division,” said Mr Hawkes.

Hawkes Group is a trusted partner for many contractors, delivering a reliable, professional service across the country.

Part of that commitment to customers is the provision of the best equipment available, which for excavators, and now dozers, means Hyundai.

heavy haulage

A WEIGHT OFF THE MIND WITH DONNELL & ELLIS HEAVY HAULAGE

The intricacies interlaced with abnormal loads haulage in construction can seem daunting – prompting routeplanning considerations, the obtaining of necessary permits, and the management of logistical constraints. The process can also pose safety and communication challenges in terms of co-ordinating restrictions and liaising with local authorities, while time-consuming delays can occur, too.

The navigation of these possible barriers requires specialised equipment and expertise –elements which Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage embed within

its services and offerings. With over 20 years of experience in haulage, the company has

encountered and managed a wide range of challenges, but the team’s wealth of knowledge

and planning abilities sets the process up for success, ensuring that any obstacles during transportation are effectively overcome, and that goods are delivered safely and on time.

TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS

Whether the requirement is for ongoing heavy haulage support or a one-time delivery, Donnell & Ellis encapsulates the complexity of the industry’s demands through its services, which include heavy haulage, international haulage, machinery transportation, wide loads, abnormal loads, and fast, safe deliveries, all at competitive prices.

heavy haulage

Starting in the 1990s, Donnell & Ellis has played a key role in transporting heavy machinery for Finlay, a leading quarry equipment producer. Its operations have included managing large-scale shipments and conducting long-haul journeys. To this day, Finlay remains a significant client for the company, representing over 50 per cent of its business – with many other companies now comprising its client list, as well.

Michael Gibson, Transport Co-Ordinator for Donnell & Ellis, said: “We work regularly with local companies like Sandvik in Ballygawley, which serves the mining, rock excavation and metal-cutting sectors and Telestack in Omagh, again focused on the mining, quarrying and recycling sectors.”

Although committed to its long-standing clients, the team is enthusiastic about one-off jobs too: “We would never like to see anyone stuck and will always help when we can.”

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Donnell & Ellis’ location services are wide-reaching – encompassing the UK, Ireland, and Europe – and the process is simplified due to the team’s access to numerous ports and settings. From collection to delivery, the team is committed to

ensuring goods arrive securely and punctually at their destination, adhering to their conveniencecentric customer focus.

ABNORMAL LOADS

Under the branch of its heavy haulage solutions, the company is often called on to transport abnormal loads – a task competently carried out by its team of 30 drivers, in addition to two full-time escort drivers with escort vehicles.

Michael explained: “When it comes to abnormal loads, the driver has extra responsibilities and needs to be actively involved in loading and unloading as well as transporting. Drivers also need to be versed in the paperwork involved, be able to route

plan, particularly if, for some reason, the load is diverted, and be good communicators, keeping in touch with escort drivers and the office during the operation.

“Where a load involves an escort driver, the journey is a team effort, in terms of a smooth drive and in dealing with any unforeseen circumstances.”

A FORMIDDABLE FLEET

To ensure that the transportation is as seamless as possible, Donnell & Ellis’ fleet of heavy goods vehicles is capable of handling

various loads, including small consignments, heavy items, and abnormally-sized or shaped products. The company aims to have a consistent number of 30 lorries in its fleet, and will typically sell off a number of them annually, to be replaced with new stock. Predominately consisting of Scania, a range of 65-tonne, 120-tonne and 150tonne hauliers are available.

To facilitate the required support and mobility for the loads, Donnell & Ellis has over 100 trailers, mostly, but not exclusively, low loaders. And of the 100-plus trailers, no two are exactly the same.

“We work directly with the manufacturers to buy customised trailers, designed and built to our requirements but carrying the guarantee of the big names in the business, like Faymonville, Nooteboom and Broshuis,” added Michael. Whatever heavy goods need transporting, Donnell & Ellis can be trusted to load its vehicles with the items of differing size and weight, and ensure that they are delivered to their destination punctually.

compact track loader

NEW BOBCAT TRACK LOADERS AND GRADERS AT ECL CIVIL ENGINEERING

Bedford-based ECL Civil Engineering Ltd has purchased two new Bobcat T86 compact track loaders with matching GPS-controlled grading attachments from Versatile Equipment Ltd, the local authorised dealer for Bobcat throughout South East England. Over the last three decades, ECL has grown from being a groundworks services company to an ambitious and continually growing national civil engineering provider, with an annual turnover of more than £100 million.

Steve Wright, Plant Manager at ECL, said: “Our Managing Director, Sean Hoare, is a strong believer in the training and development of our staff, ensuring that we have the tools, such as the new T86, that we need to complete our work to the highest expectations and standards that ECL strive for. Guided by Sean, we take pride in being the first in the UK to integrate this cuttingedge technology into a fleet like ours. This innovation not only boosts productivity but also enhances work quality, ushering in a new era of efficiency and excellence for our operations and clients alike.

“At ECL, we see the Bobcat T86 Compact Track Loader as a very effective compact dozer due to its optimised weight-tohorsepower ratio that makes it one of the most powerful and productive machines in its class. The T86 with Super Flow Hydraulic capabilities allows for even more versatility and productivity as a tool carrier, working with a wider range of attachments across all applications in construction, landscaping, forestry and many other areas. As an illustration of this flexibility, we had one of the T86s supplied with a forestry kit fitted by Versatile and we have that one running with the Bobcat FRC150 Hi-Flow Forestry Mulcher attachment.”

BOBCAT’S TOP-OF-THE-RANGE T86 COMPACT TRACK LOADER

Delivering a higher engine and hydraulic output, the Bobcat T86 is the most powerful compact track loader the company has ever built. The T86 uses a well-proven Stage V compliant 3.4 l Bobcat engine – producing 78 kW (105

HP) at 2600 RPM, providing more power than many other machines of its size. Just like all of Bobcat’s R-Series loaders, the engine is mounted in-line with direct drive, which improves the cooling capacity of the engine and hydraulic components.

Sean and Steve worked with Phil Stoneham, Area Sales Manager at Versatile Equipment, on the purchase of the T86 compact track loaders.

Phil added: “The in-line engine on the T86 increases reliability in high-intensity applications, such as forestry work, and to take advantage of this, one of the T86 loaders is equipped with a Bobcat forestry application kit, which is required when using the machine with a forestry mulcher. As part of the order, ECL has also purchased Bobcat four-in-

one bucket, pallet fork and high tip bucket attachments from Versatile Equipment.”

Steve Wright continued: “With the addition of the GPS Control Grading kit on the T86, we’re elevating grading performance by being able to achieve a remarkable precision of 3 mm or one-tenth of an inch. The ClearView Cab on the T86 loaders maximises visibility, ensuring the best possible view of the tracks and the corners of the machines and a 360-degree safety camera system provides a full view of the surroundings.

“This advancement and enhanced engine and hydraulic horsepower contribute to not only greater lifting capabilities and impressive breakout forces, but also means we can efficiently and accurately complete tasks faster and safer than ever before.”

Steve Wright added: “The Bobcat T86 is also one of only a few on the market to offer three different auxiliary hydraulic flow options, ensuring powerful hydraulic

performance for a range of advanced attachments tailored to specific tasks.

“There is a standard flow configuration providing 87 l/min for

compact track loader

applications such as load and carry, or where low hydraulic flow attachments are used. The T86 units also offer two additional hydraulic performance functions using the new Electronic Displacement Control (EDC) Pump on the T86: a High Flow function giving 138 l/ min and a new industry unique Super Flow function taking auxiliary flow to 159 l/min.”

The Five Coupler Block (standard with the Super Flow function) provides a flexible approach to running different attachments. From one common source, the operator can attach both standard or high flow approved attachments to the smaller sized ½ inch quick couplers. Then when using Super Flow, the use of the ¾ inch couplers allows maximum performance and productivity from the approved advanced attachments. Both High Flow and Super Flow options come integrated with Bobcat’s unique ‘Plug & Play’ attachment control device (ACD). The T86 machines also have Power Bob-Tach Attachment systems as standard. The Power Bob-Tach is an added comfort and productivity feature that allows some attachments to be connected and removed without the operator leaving the seat, just using the switches conveniently located in the cab – it is optional on Standard Flow machines.

On the beautiful coast of Castelldefels (Barcelona), a Develon DX62R miniexcavator has demonstrated its versatility and efficiency in a very special construction project.

On the small beach of a marina in Port Ginesta on the coastline, a unique beach restaurant has been built. Its ephemeral, allwooden structure is assembled and disassembled each season. This type of construction is very unique because, under legal regulations, it remains operational only from Easter until approximately October, and is then dismantled to be reinstalled the following year.

To carry out this project, the Develon DX62R mini-excavator has been key in several essential tasks, from preparing the site to transporting materials, including floors, walls, ceilings and wooden beams, all within the framework

DEVELON DX62R MINI-EXCAVATOR PREPARES COASTAL RESORT FOR SUMMER SEASON

of a rustic-chic and functional design. The machine also played a key role in the excavation to bury the water tanks that supply both the restaurant’s kitchen and bathrooms. In total, five beach bars have been set up in the area, all with the assistance of this compact yet powerful machine.

HIGHLY VERSATILE MACHINE

What sets the Develon DX62R mini-excavator apart in this project is its ability to perform multiple functions with a single machine. In the past, in the harbour cove, the installation of beach bars required the use of a forklift due to difficult access. This type of machinery only allowed for the transport of materials, but did not offer the flexibility provided by the mini-excavator. The Develon DX62R mini-excavator offers much more versatility; it not only facilitates transport, but

also excavation work and material handling in difficult and difficult-to-access terrain. Its compact size allows for easy access to narrow areas without damaging the marina walkways or the access points to the protected dune beach. This detail is crucial, as the construction must not only meet quality standards but also meet environmental preservation requirements. On large beaches, the task was previously performed with a telehandler, but the Develon mini-excavator has proven to be very suitable in this environment as well. It perfectly meets the project’s requirements.

POWERFUL, VERSATILE, FAST AND COMPACT

Although the Develon DX62R is not the latest model in the company’s mini-excavator range, it remains an ideal

choice for projects like this, says the operator, due to its high performance.

Weighing six tonne, the machine offers a power output that feels closer to that of an 8 tonne machine, thanks to its efficient engine and load capacity.

One of the most notable features is the machine’s comfort. Thanks to the quick-hitch system, the operator does not need to leave the cab to change attachments, which makes work easier and saves time.

The speed of the Develon DX62R mini-excavator is another of its strengths, as it reduces task execution time and, consequently, increases productivity. This is a key factor in projects with tight deadlines like the one carried out in Castelldefels, where every minute counted to get the beach restaurant ready for the peak season.

WAC McCANDLESS: DRIVING INDUSTRY SUCCESS AS A LEADING DISTRIBUTOR

Founded in 1943 by brothers Rex and Cromie McCandless as a small motorcycle repair shop on Belfast’s Fulton Street, WAC McCandless (Engineers) Ltd has developed into one of Ireland’s leading distributors of construction and quarry equipment. Over eight decades, it has cultivated a reputation fusing quality, service and innovation.

The company’s origins were rooted in a passion for motorcycles and light engineering, which gradually expanded into construction equipment. The acquisition of well-known brands, such as NCK-Rapier, Rob Roy, Yale, and Ingersoll Rand, prompted a move to larger premises on Limestone Road in 1961,

where the company also took on the agency for Komatsu. Since being acquired by its current owners in 1975, WAC McCandless has continued to operate from this location and has experienced steady growth.

As the sole distributor for Komatsu construction equipment in Northern Ireland – and one of Europe’s most longstanding Komatsu dealerships – the company’s product range has progressed from bulldozers and tracked shovels to an even more extensive range, including excavators, compact machinery, wheeled loaders, bulldozers, telehandlers, articulated dump trucks and hydraulic hammers. WAC McCandless is subsequently recognised as one of Ireland’s fastest-growing dealerships,

holding leading market shares in excavators, bulldozers, and rigid dump trucks.

For 60-plus years, the company’s number one priority has centred on excellence in customer support, a priority which continues to this day with a dedicated team of factory-trained workshopbased and mobile support engineers. WAC McCandless remains committed to providing industry-leading equipment, parts, and support – propelling towards the future, while inspired by its legacy.

In addition to Komatsu, the company is a proud distributor of several other leading brands – providing comprehensive sales, parts and product support – which include:

ESCO

WAC McCandless have been an Esco dealer since 1978, supplying bucket wear parts for all sizes of excavators and wheel loaders.

DYNAPAC

The company was awarded the dealership in 2013, covering Northern Ireland, for asphalt pavers, asphalt rollers, asphalt planers and soil compactors. In 2020 their territory for Dynapac was extended to all Ireland.

ATLAS COPCO

WAC McCandless was awarded the dealership in 2014 across Northern Ireland for compressors, water pumps, generators and lighting towers. In 2021 their area was extended to all of Ireland.

EPIROC

Formerly Krupp and subsequently a division of Atlas Copco now a standalone

company, WAC McCandless was awarded the dealership in 2016 covering Northern Ireland for hydraulic attachments, including rockbreakers, concrete cutters, concrete busters, hydraulic pulverizers, magnets, sorting grabs, crusher buckets, hydraulic compactors, drum cutters and auger drive units. In 2018 their territory for Epiroc was extended to cover all of Ireland.

XCENTRIC

WAC McCandless became the Xcentric dealership for hydraulic rippers, crusher buckets and screener buckets in 2014, covering all-Ireland, and have since sold numerous machines into quarries and demolition companies.

JLG

The team were awarded the prestigious JLG access equipment distributorship for Northern

Ireland in January 2022 which was later extended to all of Ireland with a range including diesel and electric scissors, diesel and electric telescopic and articulated booms, compact crawler booms, vertical mast lifts, vertical lifts and low level access equipment.

SPARE PARTS

The WAC McCandless team also prides itself on its provision of an extensive range of genuine spare parts for all the brands they represent. With support from their manufacturers’ European warehouses, they can quickly supply parts to help keep equipment running smoothly and efficiently. All members of the parts department are manufacturertrained and committed to helping customers achieve optimal productivity.

CATERPILLAR ANNOUNCES ANNUAL PRODUCT UPDATES FOR CAT® HYDRAULIC EXCAVATORS

Caterpillar has announced multiple updates for its Cat® Hydraulic Excavator line as part of its annual product update programme. Helping to improve machine efficiency and get operators quickly to work, the enhancements include Cat Grade technologies, a new User Interface (UI) for quick navigation and an Advanced Payload option for Cat track excavators. These updates apply to Cat small, medium, and large excavators, plus material-handlers, wheeled excavators, and forestry and specialty machines.

CAT GRADE ENHANCEMENTS

With 2025 model builds, Cat Grade with advanced 2D features and functions are now integrated into standard Cat Grade with 2D. Compared to traditional grading methods, Cat 2D technology empowers operators to work more efficiently in a range of applications by delivering real-time guidance for accurate vertical and horizontal control. It helps to ensure that cuts and fills are made to exact specifications, without undercutting or overcutting, and can eliminate the need for ground stakes in most applications.

“Our 2D grading technology provides easy adjustments to target depth and slope using joystick commands, the touchscreen interface, or a jog dial. It displays target grade with visual guidance plus height and depth.

“To help ensure long life, the integrated components are protected from damage, and 2D works with multiple bucket types, including digging, cleaning, grading and tilting,” said Jason Ho, Senior Global Product Consultant, Excavation for Caterpillar.

For customers grading complex designs, Grade with 3D technology is now a factoryinstalled option that can be ordered for

track and wheeled excavators. This new option includes all the hardware required for the 3D system, installed and tested from the factory. It provides an easier upgrade path for customers who want to add Cat Grade with 3D after initial purchase.

NEW USER INTERFACE

Cat Payload for excavators and materialhandlers delivers precise bucket load information with on-the-go weighing to help prevent overloading or underloading. From reordering work tool lists to creating new work tool combinations, the display’s new UI starts quickly and enables operators to easily set up machines and access information so they get to work without delay.

Operators keep track of the amount of material moved and can split tasks between truck-loading in Weigh Mode and moving material around the site in Stockpile Mode. The ability to input couplers and attachments into the system makes setting

up work tool combinations highly efficient by significantly reducing calibration time.

“While Cat Payload helps operators to accurately hit load targets and avoid underloading, overloading or misloading materials customers with track excavators can upgrade the system to Advanced Payload for expanded capabilities, such as custom tags, daily totals and electronic ticketing. When combined with VisionLink®, Advanced Payload enables customers to analyse job sites and individual assets for remote management of production targets and key metrics,” added Jason.

Cat Advanced Payload helps customers to:

• Lower costs – by saving time, labour and fuel consumption

• Improve accuracy – with precise payload targets that help eliminate over and underloading

• Increase efficiency – helping new operators to get up to speed faster and experienced operators work more accurately

• Monitor safety – by helping to prevent truck overloading, which results in heavier and more unstable loads

CAT OPERATOR TRAINING

All the latest APU 2025 features in action can be viewed on Cat Operator Training at www.catoperatortraining.com. Caterpillar’s equipment training solutions team develops and executes training programmes for Cat equipment operators and jobsite supervisors and certifies operators in the Cat dealer network. The comprehensive training solutions help operators maximise production and improve safety through a variety of training solutions, including eLearning, instructor-led, simulators, and custom training programmes.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

CONSTRUCTION, QUARRY & RECYCLING MAGAZINE

AWARD CATEGORIES 2025

PLANT HIRE COMPANY OF THE YEAR

The Plant Hire Company of the Year award celebrates excellence in the plant hire industry.

This award recognises a company that excels in providing topquality equipment, prioritises safety, delivers exceptional customer service, and demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. The Plant Hire Company of the Year sets the standard for excellence, innovation, and leadership within the industry.

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER SERVICE

The Excellence in Customer Service Award recognises businesses who exemplify an unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled customer service experiences. This award honours those companies who consistently surpass expectations, demonstrating a profound commitment to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of their customers.

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE

The Environmental Initiative Award celebrates outstanding efforts in innovative resource management, environmental impact mitigation, and sustainability across various sectors. Whether through pioneering projects in biodiversity conservation, ethical business practices, charitable initiatives, or other means, this award honours companies, organisations, and initiatives that are making a tangible difference in preserving our planet and fostering sustainability.

HIGH ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR

This category is for the individual or company that has achieved outstanding success such as in sales, contract wins, company expansion/development or other areas of business over the past 12 months.

Open to any individual or company currently active in the construction, civil engineering, quarrying, waste management and plant & machinery industries. The entrant must highlight the area in which they operate, level and type of achievement as well as outline any relevant factors or reasons that contribute to that success.

CONSTRUCTION COMPANY OF THE YEAR

The Construction Company of the Year award recognises excellence, innovation, and leadership within the construction industry. This award showcases companies that have consistently demonstrated outstanding achievements in various aspects of construction, including but not limited to residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects. The recipient of this award embodies the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and excellence.

MINERAL PRODUCTS SITE OF THE YEAR

This award celebrates the exemplary achievements of individual quarries, spanning the spectrum from hardrock to sand and gravel operations.

Entrants to this category showcase a commitment to fostering safe working environments, employing the highest standards of pollution control, and prioritising sustainability initiatives. Notably, contenders distinguish themselves through their dedication to biodiversity preservation and operational efficiency, setting benchmarks for industry best practices.

The award recognises sites that go beyond mere extraction, presenting a robust portfolio of products and services to meet diverse market demands.

WASTES MANAGEMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE

The Wastes Management & Environmental Excellence Award celebratesexcellence within the resources and Wastes Management industry. We seek to honour those who demonstrate exemplary best practices and innovation across various commercial and public sectors. Nominations are open to companies and organisations who have showcased outstanding contributions in waste management, resource conservation, and environmental sustainability.

HEALTH & SAFETY

The Health & Safety Award acknowledges companies and organisations that demonstrate remarkable dedication and innovation in safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of individuals across varied environments.

SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

This award celebrates entities and initiatives that exhibit exceptional commitment to cultivating safe practices, mitigating accidents, and advancing overall wellness.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

The Special Recognition Award acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service and remarkable contributions to the construction, quarrying, plant & recycling sectors.

CONSTRUCTION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

The Construction Project of the Year Award celebrates excellence and innovation, in the construction industry across the island of Ireland and the UK.

Open to all construction companies, including contractors, developers, architects, and engineers, this prestigious award recognises outstanding projects completed within the last 18 months.

CIVIL ENGINEERING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

This Award will be presented to the organisation that can report on successful involvement within a wide variety of civil engineering projects including planning, construction, infrastructure and maintenance of fixed structures or public works throughout the the island of Ireland and the UK. The information provided should demonstrate high levels of skill within project management, procurement, innovation and specialist projects. Customer testimonies may also be submitted.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY

The Circular Economy Award celebrates innovative initiatives and outstanding achievements in advancing the principles of circular economy within various sectors. This prestigious award recognises organisations and businesses, who demonstrate exceptional commitment in rethinking traditional linear economic models, reducing waste, and promoting sustainability throughout the product lifecycle.

R&D INNOVATION

The R&D Innovation Award celebrates exceptional innovations that have revolutionised the plant, construction, civil engineering, quarry, and recycling industries. This award recognises products that have transformed traditional practices, enhanced efficiency, and elevated industry standards. Entrants for this award are invited to spotlight groundbreaking machinery, equipment, or solutions that have redefined the game in the past 18 months.

Whether it's a cutting-edge excavator, a state-of-the-art crusher, or a pioneering recycling technology, the focus is on industry impact – has your product reshaped operations, optimised workflows, or opened new possibilities for growth and sustainability? From advanced construction materials handling to sustainable recycling processes, the R&D Innovation award honours innovations that have demonstrated exceptional performance, reliability, and versatility in their field.

TOP TEAM OF THE YEAR

The Top Team of the Year award celebrates the outstanding collaborative efforts within companies and businesses across various sectors, including plant, construction, quarry, civil engineering, and recycling industries. This award acknowledges teams within companies that have demonstrated exceptional teamwork, innovation, and dedication in executing a project, initiative, or strategy, resulting in a substantial and positive impact. Teams considered for this award have not only achieved remarkable results but have also overcome obstacles and challenges through effective collaboration and synergy.

QUARRY MANAGER OF THE YEAR

This award recognises exemplary leadership and dedication within the quarry sector. It honours individuals who play a pivotal role in quarry management teams, showcasing outstanding contributions to various aspects of quarry operations.

WASTE MANAGEMENT TEAM OF THE YEAR

The Waste Management Team of the Year Award recognises outstanding achievement and innovation. This award honours a team that has demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and creativity in addressing the challenges of waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable waste disposal. Entries for this award should have exhibited exemplary teamwork, collaboration, and dedication to implementing effective waste management strategies. As well as a proactive approach to environmental stewardship, promoting responsible waste practices within their company, organisation or community.

TRANSITIONING TOWARDS NET ZERO

This award celebrates organisations that have invested in their operations and people in order to transition to a low/zero carbon future.

Entry Criteria: Demonstrate a clear and achievable roadmap to net zero that has been communicated to all stakeholders in your business.

Provide examples of implemented initiatives—electrification of operations and transport. renewable energy use, use of smart technologies to monitor energy use, use of renewable / low carbon fuels, working collaboratively with others, training and investing in green skills for your workforce. Show measurable results or milestones achieved in emissions reductions or sustainable performance, particularly in relation to scope 1, scope 2 and scope 3.

HOW TO ENTER:

Entries should not exceed word count of 1000 words.

A minimum of two high res images that best depict your entry to be supplied.

Supporting material can be supplied over and above. Entries must be made by emailing a Word/ PDF document stating the award category to: golda@4squaremedia.net

Separate award entries to be emailed for each category entered.

Large files can be sent via WeTransfer - email to be sent to golda@4squaremedia.net to advise thereof.

Award Entry enquiries can be made to Golda Burrows - golda@4squaremedia.net

www.plantandcivilengineer.com

SANY has announced the addition of a 7m model to its telehandler range – equipped with cutting-edge features and a robust design, and delivering exceptional lifting power, manoeuvrability, and safety.

The key features of the SANY 7m telehandler include:

Optimal reach and load capacity: the 7m reach, combined with a high load

SANY UK Launches 7m Telehandler

Safety first: it’s integrated with numerous standard safety features, including a dynamic load monitoring system, reversing camera with distance sensor and seven LED lights located on the cab and boom

Versatility: it’scompatible with a variety of attachments, making it adaptable to diverse tasks

capacity, ensures seamless operation even in demanding applications

Advanced operator comfort: ergonomic cab design, intuitive controls, and enhanced visibility offer a superior operating experience

Efficient performance: the telehandler boasts a fuel-efficient stage V Deutz engine that delivers 55Kw of gross power

‘Well-Performing

Chris Jarvis, Telehandler Sales Manager of SANY UK, shared his enthusiasm regarding the launch, stating: “The new 7m telehandler underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that exceed customer expectations. We have already seen great success with the STH1440 (14m) and STH1840 (18m) models that were launched in the UK last year so it’s exciting to add this compact addition to our portfolio to meet the evolving needs of the construction sector.”

Economy’ Drives Komatsu Sales in Ireland

Komatsu distributors in Ireland, McHale Plant Sales, is reporting what the company calls a ‘wave of investment’ in Komatsu equipment – a most recent example of which were two major deals involving CRH member company, Roadstone, and a substantial plant-expansion purchase by civil works contractor, Wills Bros of Foxford, ahead of a major civil works road realignment contract, both of which were already publicised in industry media.

Accounting for what he calls ‘a welcome boost in Komatsu sales’ McHale Director, Denis McGrath, points to Ireland’s ‘well-performing’ economy as the ‘main driver’ of sales within the construction sector, backed by ‘customer satisfaction and loyalty to the Komatsu brand.’

“Following a period of robust growth in the 2020-to-2024 period, Ireland continues to benefit from a prudent approach to budget control and management on the part of government,” Denis said.

“With full employment, continuing GDP growth, strong exports, current economic growth in the order of three per cent and a forecasted growth in the construction sector pitched above six per cent, customers

are taking advantage of current conditions, making wise decisions for the future while business remains buoyant,” he added.

Backed by a significant increase in sales of micro-to-midi utilities machines, the Tipperary-based distributor (whose relationship

with Komatsu dates back more than 35 years) has benefitted from what Denis says has been ‘a number of major inventory upgrades and fleet expansion programmes’.

“Across our portfolio of Komatsu tracked and wheeled excavators,

ADTs, wheel loaders, and D-model dozers, many of the units sold by us in recent months went to big-name buyers who have been loyal to Komatsu over many years,” commented Denis.

Among others, sales included a D65PX dozer, a HM300 ADT, and a cross-section of PC excavators to Rossmore Civils, expanding their extensive fleet of 60 plus machines; four PC model excavators, including one LGP low ground pressure unit, to Roscommon-based Connaught Contractors – with their 40-strong Komatsu fleet; a further four PC excavators and a D51PXI dozer to Wicklow-based Vincent Dempsey Plant Hire; and an additional two HM300-5 model ADTs purchased by Wills Bros.

Terex Ecotec Unveils Custom Blue TDS 815 Shredder to Raise Awareness for Prostate Cancer

Terex® Ecotec, a global manufacturer of environmental equipment and solutions, has revealed a TDS 815 Compact Slow Speed Shredder, painted in the signature colour of Prostate Cancer UK. The machine, led by the team at Terex Ecotec, is an effort to promote early detection of prostate cancer and is part of an ongoing commitment to both industry excellence and corporate responsibility.

The TDS 815, renowned for its cutting-edge waste processing capabilities, has fast become a key product in the waste management sector, offering versatility and performance across a wide range of applications. Featuring a 1.5m twin shaft shredding unit for efficient material reduction, the TDS 815 is known for its versatility, offering operators the choice of synced or independent shafts to cater to specific application needs. Powered by a CAT 4.4 140kw Stage V engine, the 16,500-kilogramme machine excels in a range of demanding applications – from wood and green waste, and reinforced concrete, to bulky and household waste. The addition of T-Link

telemetry further enhances the machine’s adaptability by providing real-time performance monitoring, optimising operational efficiency across a variety of waste materials. What sets this particular TDS 815 apart is the striking blue paintwork that marks its role in Terex Ecotec’s prostate cancer awareness campaign. The project was driven by the personal experience of Stevie Black, Operations Director at

Terex, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in early 2024. For Stevie, this initiative has been an opportunity to combine his professional expertise with a personal cause. The blue machine will not only be in the field excelling at waste processing; it also represents a call to action for greater awareness of prostate cancer, which affects one-in-eight men.

The blue TDS 815 was specially handed over to Quarry and

The Irish Mining and Quarrying Society Elects a New President

Ruairi O’Connor has been elected as the new President of the Irish Mining and Quarrying Society (IMQS). Ruairi, who has served as Vice President since 2023, succeeds Alan Dolan of New Boliden as President.

Additionally, Dr Aoife Brady of iCRAG was elected as Vice President, Liam O’Shea of Pat O’Donnell & Company was elected as Treasurer, and Oisin O’Connor will take up the role of IMQS Executive Secretary. The leadership team, supported by the IMQS Council, will preside over the activities of the IMQS, which are focused on promoting, safeguarding, and representing the natural resources and extractive industries in Ireland.

Ruairi O’Connor is a seasoned industry professional hailing from the West of Ireland, bringing over two decades of expertise in the quarrying and blasting sector. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Construction Management from the Technological University of the Shannon, along with a National Diploma in Highway and Traffic Engineering from the Athlone Institute of Technology. He began his career with Kemek (formerly Irish Industrial Explosives Ltd.) as a technical service engineer. Over the years, he has progressed into a key leadership role and now serves as area manager for the West of Ireland. He commented on his appointment: “I’m excited to take up the role. It is an honour

Recycling Solutions Ltd (QRS) at the Terex Campsie facility in Northern Ireland. As a Terex Ecotec distributor in Ireland, QRS will be using the machine for various environmental projects across the country, furthering the campaign’s goal of raising awareness for prostate cancer while demonstrating the machine’s powerful capabilities in real-world applications.

Dougie Watt, Managing Director at QRS, commented:

“Unfortunately, everybody has in some form had cancer affect their life, so it’s really important to raise awareness where we can. Personal and professional lives are now more intertwined than ever before, so why not use our platforms to make a difference and bring awareness of cancer to the forefront?”

As part of this initiative, Terex Ecotec is encouraging men to complete a simple risk assessment via the Prostrate Cancer UK website, which could help identify those at high risk for prostate cancer and guide them toward seeking early detection. For more information on prostate cancer awareness and early detection, visit www.prostatecanceruk.org.

for me to be elected as President of the IMQS. I look forward to representing the society and meeting its members in the coming years.”

The IMQS was founded in 1958 to provide a focal point for all those working in the extractive industry in Ireland. The membership is drawn from all sectors of the industry, ranging from exploration geologists to equipment suppliers. It has a unique role in Ireland as a forum and network for contact between the different branches of the mining and quarrying industry.

Dougie Watt, Managing Director of QRS, with the custom blue TDS 815 Shredder at Balmoral Show.

Ruairi O’Connor.

Institute of Quarrying NI Announce New Chairman

The Institute of Quarrying Northern Ireland Branch recently held its Annual General Meeting at the Dunadry Hotel. During one of the event’s pinnacle moments, Pierce Kirwan of Northstone Materials was assigned into the role of Chairman for the next two years, with the support from Adrian Alexander from Kilwaughter as Vice Chair. Comprising various branches across the UK, the Institute of Quarrying has been – for over 100 years – committed to supporting people working in the mineral extraction industry and promoting the positive impact of the industry, in addition to the career opportunities available.

SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING | COMPOSTING | CONVEYING

SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING | COMPOSTING | CONVEYING

SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING | COMPOSTING | CONVEYING

SALES/SERVICE/HIRE SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING | COMPOSTING | CONVEYING

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT703 HJ

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

mark@qrs.ie

+442887767120

+442887767120

+442887767120

10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

info@qrs.ie

+447587 790030

info@qrs.ie 10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

+442887767120

+442887767120

SALES/SERVICE/HIRE

SALES/SERVICE/HIRE

SALES/SERVICE/HIRE

SALES/SERVICE/HIRE

The new Chairman, Pierce Kirwan, with past Chairmen on the evening.

Edward Nethery, Pierce Kirwan and Adrian Alexander.

MPANI GOLF DAY RETURNS FOR 2025

This year’s MPANI Golf day recently took place at Kingfisher Estate, Templepatrick – once again drawing strong participation from companies and representatives across the sector.

Gratitude was extended to all the sponsors and players whose support and involvement contributed to the event’s success – raising significant funds for two important local charities, OGCancer NI and Pulmonary Fibrosis NI. The event continues to serve as a valuable opportunity for industry colleagues to connect, network, and support meaningful causes.

Longest Drive - 17th: Ronan Heanen collecting the prize on behalf of Don Burns.

Nearest the pin at the 4th Hole Chris Glasgow of WR Kennedy. Ronan Heanen, Gordon Best and Peter Daly.

Individual Gross Prize David Blaney.

1st team winners. Combined team: Chris Glasgow - WR Kennedy, Neil McCracken, Carson McDowell, Lyle Foster, WR Kennedy, Stuart Nelson, Carson McDowell and Gordon Best, Regional Director MPANI.

Individual 1st nett winner Peter Daly of People First with a score of 43 points.

Individual 2nd nett prize winner Gerard Lawless of Breedon.

Breedon fourball.

CDE fourball.

Adcrete fourball. Momentum Group fourball.

RTU fourball.

Mattest fourball.

MPANI fourball.

2nd Team winners Northsone 2 Team members from left, Jordan Hagan, Matthew Greer, David Luke, Andrew Delargy and Gordon Best, MPANI.

Nearest the pin at the 11th hole David Luke of Northstone.

Longest drive at 6th hole Gordon Best.

OF EXCELLENCE AT WISHNI AMBASSADOR AWARDS 2025

Committed to showcasing good practice in waste and resource management and associated industries, the Waste Industry Safety & Health (WISH) Forum for Northern Ireland hosted their annual Ambassador Awards Conference that recognises those companies and individuals who demonstrate exemplary skill and vigilance in the pursuit of safe working conditions and practices installed.

David Donnelly, from WISHNI Forum, welcomed everyone to the La Mon House Hotel for the celebration. In addition to highlighting the improvements carved out by this year’s much-deserved honourees, the event’s itinerary included an inspirational presentation by Mr Brian Pryce, the Principal Inspector for the HSENI.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

A number of students were given a project based on a simulated incident that had resulted in a loss of life. They had to access the site and all available video and documented evidence and make recommendations of a strategy or changes to safety policy that could prevent this accident from happening again.

Aimee Carty from the University of Ulster was the winning recipient of the Student Ambassador Award for 2025, and her colleague Maria Kelly was awarded runner-up. This was followed by the of this presentation of this year’s Ambassador Awards to: Bryson Recycling, Natural World Products, McQuillan Companies, ReCon Waste Management, Kiverco, McLanahan’s.

The conference was brought to a close with an inspirational talk from Mr Tim Walker, the

CEO of ARC21 and the current President of CIWM, who regaled the audience with a number of personal reflections from his senior role in Belfast City Council and the incidents that he was given the responsibility of overseeing and taking action on. As President of CIWM he also shared a vision of the future; how the industry is forever changing and how we will need to handle both the known and the new materials in a different way.

Gratitude is extended to the following companies for supporting and funding this event and indeed many of the workshops WISH runs throughout the year to support colleagues: Avenue Recycling, ReCon Waste Management, ARCO, Tilsatec, Atlas World, HSENI, McQuillan Companies, Practical Waste Solutions, Quadra; and CIWM.

ambassador awards

Student winner, Aimee Carty, and her proud family, with Amanda Grant and Danielle Shields.

Damien Teague, McQuillan Group, receiving their award, with Amanda Grant and Danielle Shields.

Colin Bell and Neil McAllister, Bryson Recycling, receiving their award, with Amanda Grant, HSENI, and Danielle Shields, Bryson Recycling.

Student Award winner, Aimee Carty and Ursula Walsh, from the University of Ulster.

Anne Coyle, ReCon Waste Management, receiving their award, with Amanda Grant and Danielle Shields.

Niall McMullen, Natural World Products receiving their award, with Amanda Grant and Danielle Shields.

Kirsty Mincher, Kiverco, receiving their award, with Amanda Grant and Danielle Shields.

Colin Bell, Bryson Recyling receiving their award, with Amanda Grant and Danielle Shields.

ambassador awards

Student award winner, Aimee Carty, delivering an excellent presentation.

David Donnelly, WISHNI.

The keynote speaker from the HSENI setting the standard.

Charlene Meek, IOSH, and David Donnelly.

Lynne Pate, Tilsatec.

Aidan Faloona, Quadra.

Nicola McCracken, Secretary of NISG Northern Ireland Safety Group.

Tim Walker, CEO of ARC21 and the current President of CIWM.

Brian Pryce, the Principal Inspector for the HSENI.

Terex Ecotec Extends QRS Coverage in Ireland

Terex Ecotec, a global manufacturer of environmental equipment and solutions, has announced an expansion of Quarry and Recycling Solutions Ltd (QRS) territory coverage in Ireland.

After successfully serving as the distributor for Northern Ireland and Donegal since 2021, QRS saw their coverage extended to additional Irish regions in 2023. Building on this success, Terex Ecotec has now broadened the reach of QRS, enabling them to offer the full range of Terex Ecotec equipment nationwide.

Originally founded to offer a maintenance and repair service for the quarry and recycling sectors, QRS are experts in supporting customers with increasing machine uptime and reducing the frequency and cost of breakdowns. Since becoming a distributor for Terex Ecotec, QRS have evolved to break

into the sales market, offering environmental equipment solutions, from waste to biomass. With strong industry experience and a team of skilled and trained engineers, QRS have offered customers in the recycling industry an excellent standard of service and support. Dougie Watt, Managing Director for QRS, commented: “We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Terex Ecotec and to represent the brand across the whole of Ireland. We began working with Terex Ecotec in 2021 and the relationship has gone from strength-to-strength. Terex Ecotec’s evergrowing range of products has allowed us to establish QRS as a leading provider of full recycling solutions for both sales and rentals.’’

Thomas Coulter, Global Sales Director for Terex Ecotec, added: “Extending the coverage of QRS for all of Ireland is the culmination of four

years of success, since we started working together in 2021. Their strong investment in people and infrastructure, as well as their expansive rental offering, makes them perfectly positioned to grow our market share throughout the country. We are excited for our continued growth story, where customers can expect locally-built, class-leading products backed by QRS’ outstanding after-sales care.’’

A Looming Waste Crisis in Absence of Modern Waste Infrastructure

Indaver, the European waste management experts behind plans to develop a modern waste management solution to meet the needs of six Northern Ireland councils in the arc21 area, has warned that Northern Ireland is facing a looming waste crisis unless it delivers the necessary infrastructure to manage its own waste.

The company recently welcomed the submission of Further Environmental Information by arc21, for the integrated waste management solution at Hightown Quarry in Mallusk. The information updates and refreshes the planning application and addresses statutory consultee responses. Indaver also published a report which outlines the precarious nature of Northern Ireland’s waste sector and the need case for the project. It warns that Northern Ireland risks adding a waste infrastructure crisis to our existing wastewater crisis which is already damaging our economic aspirations and environmental stewardship. Climate change and circular economy targets mean that we no longer send our residual (black bag), largely non-recyclable waste to landfill, and because of this, most of our landfills have closed. This leaves Northern Ireland extremely vulnerable, and subject to increasingly volatile

and expensive waste export markets, where we expect other jurisdictions to manage our waste. This is neither a responsible nor a sustainable long-term solution, especially in these turbulent geopolitical times.

In 2023, Northern Ireland exported over 280,000 tonnes of residual waste as Refuse Derived Fuel to fuel energy-from-waste plants across Europe. This figure has more than doubled (+223 per cent) since 2020 and will continue to rise without local waste infrastructure, and leave Northern Ireland at the mercy of these already volatile markets.

Indaver believes that like most councils in Great Britain, implementing a local solution would deliver self-reliance,

enable Northern Ireland to increase recycling levels, and ensure we recover energy from Northern Ireland waste locally, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

A Tipping Point

Speaking about the updated and refreshed planning submission, Colin O’Hanlon, Indaver, said: “There is chronic under-capacity in the Northern Ireland waste management sector for our black bag waste, and we are lagging significantly behind the rest of the UK and Europe in adopting the modern infrastructure necessary to address this growing challenge. Continued inaction means we are nearing a tipping point where we are increasingly vulnerable

and risk adding a waste crisis to our existing wastewater crisis.

“We already know that the wastewater crisis is severely hampering Northern Ireland’s economic ambitions and exacerbating environmental concerns around Lough Neagh and Belfast Lough.

“Unlike the wastewater crisis, however, there is a readymade solution waiting to be implemented. That solution is the £250 million arc21 residual waste project, which presents an opportunity to showcase how private-sector investment can drive public benefit, delivering long-term value and leaving a valuable asset in public ownership.

“The project simply requires a Department for Infrastructure Ministerial signature to deliver a robust and evidence-based planning decision. This will allow it to progress to the next stage of procurement where a business case evaluation will trigger a democratic decision by the arc21 councils to decide if it progresses.”

To read more about the project and Northern Ireland’s waste infrastructure needs you can view and download the Indaver report: Tipping Point – NI’s Looming Waste Crisis: The Case for Critical Waste Infrastructure for Northern Ireland at www.becon.co.uk.

Becon Project Overview (as of March 2014)

L-R: Dougie Watt, Managing Director, QRS, and Thomas Coulter, Global Sales Director, Terex Ecotec

recycling & waste management

True Group Expands with Hyundai HX300A L Excavator

A Hyundai Construction Equipment 30-tonne crawler excavator is the first machine to wear the new livery of Loughboroughbased True Group.

The company, with plant hire, grab lorry, aggregate supply, recycling, vehicle-leasing and contracting divisions, is evolving from its original branding of True Plant Hire, to reflect the growing diversity of its operations across the region and nationwide.

Trueline Midlands was formed in 2015 as an ecological fencing and landscaping contractor, and the company soon moved into groundworks and civils work. Purchasing a 2-tonne mini excavator it launched a multiple machine fleet and by 2018 True Plant Hire was established. It now runs more than 200 excavators, telescopic handlers, site dumpers, rollers and compact tracked loaders. Expansion has been organic, with the company creating new internal divisions to meet its customers’ changing needs. A fleet of five grab lorries was

purchased in 2021 and the business moved into crushing and screening of construction and demolition waste material from around the East Midlands. This division has now developed to include an inert Waste Transfer Station, producing hardcore and screened soils for re-use.

“It took about six months to get the Waste Transfer

Station up and running,” said company founder and Managing Director Tom MacFarlane.

“The Environment Agency has been very helpful and we are working towards our CIWM (WAMITAB) certification.”

With a storage capacity of up to 75,000-tonnes a year, the Waste Transfer Station recycles more

than 95 per cent of the material that is taken in from sites across the region. Indeed, it is this waste business that will be the first customer for the new Hyundai excavator. The 30-tonne HX300A L has been equipped with a 2.5m wide Allu screening bucket, which will start the sorting process, as material is loaded into the mobile crusher in the waste facility. The machine will also be available through the plant hire fleet, where it will be offered with a range of attachments, including a hydraulic breaker.

Attachments are a speciality of True Group and have been part of the offer from day one. When initially working in the ecological contracting business, the company was an early adopter of a wide range of specialist attachments and now offers mulchers, shears and vibrating plates for its excavators, skid steer loaders and compact tracked loaders.

The company first acquired a Hyundai excavator in 2018, adding a compact tailswing HX235A with a dozer blade to the fleet. The reliability and strong performance of that machine was a contributing factor in the purchase of the new HX300A L.

New Waste and Recycling Kit for Develon DL-7 Wheel Loaders

Develon has introduced a new updated Waste and Recycling Kit for the company’s award-winning DL-7 range of wheel loaders.

It is designed to help operators work safely in the hazardous conditions that often accompany waste-handling and recycling applications, including contending with airborne dust, dirt and other dangerous particulates and materials.

The kit is available for all Develon wheel loader models from the DL200-7 through to the DL480-7, which is the segment of the Develon range that is most widely used in this kind of environment.

The main features of the Waste and Recycling Kit include:

• Windshield guards

• Rim covers

• Road light protection (front and rear)

• Arm cylinder cover

• Articulation guard

• Front frame cover

• Belly protection (front and centre and rear)

• Air intake mesh

There are many safety features provided in the kit, including the windshield guards, rim covers, road light protection and other protective covers, a fine mesh air intake cover and solid tyres. Several of

these features are available as options, so customers can choose a kit of their choice to tailor their wheel loaders for their specific applications. Develon also offers an aftermarket version of the kit for those customers who decide to install the kit at a later date.

With the Waste and Recycling Kit, operators will be able to work more safely and confidently on these job sites and, in addition, Develon provides a wider fin radiator and air conditioner condenser as standard, in combination with a reversible fan, to facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance.

The Waste and Recycling Kit perfectly matches with other features of the DL-7 range, such as the air compressor, high lift arm, quick coupler, Transparent bucket and more. For maximum performance and versatility all DL-7 wheel loaders are equipped as standard with a 3rd spool valve with settable flow and detent function, providing a constant flow for hydraulically-driven attachments.

True Group has launched its rebranding with a Hyundai HX300A L crawler excavator.

RTU Announces Ireland’s First £500k Concrete Waste Recycling System

RTU has officially launched its new industry leading waste recycling system following a £500,000 investment in sustainable manufacturing.

The waste recycler, which is the only one of its kind in Ireland, marks a significant advancement in Northern Ireland’s sustainable construction landscape. It features two highcapacity reclaimers, large grey water stirring tanks, and an advanced filter press, enabling RTU to reclaim over 50m³ of fresh concrete and washings per hour. The new recycler has capacity to reclaim around 7,200 tonnes of aggregate for reuse per year – equivalent to the weight of nearly 600 double decker buses. Key benefits of the new system include:

• Recycling over 300m³ of fresh concrete waste per month, reclaiming approximately 600 tonnes of aggregate for reuse

• Processing more than 100,000 litres of grey water washings daily

• Simultaneous reclamation of waste concrete from up to four concrete vehicles

• Offering a scale and efficiency unmatched by existing local systems, many of which rely on traditional wedge pit methods that fail to recover valuable aggregate resulting in unnecessary landfill waste

The system was officially opened by the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir, in front of key customers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders.

Minister Andrew Muir officially opens RTU’s new £500,000 concrete waste recycling system – the first-of-its-kind in Ireland – joined by RTU’s Managing Director, Alan Sproule, Joint Chairmen, Daniel McIlroy and David McIlroy, Finance Director, Franklin McIlroy, and Technical Director, Samuel McIlroy.

Alan Sproule, Managing Director at RTU, said: “This investment not only represents our commitment to leading the industry in sustainable concrete production but also allows us to futureproof operations and safeguard local jobs. We’re proud to adopt technology that sets a new benchmark for the industry, reducing waste and conserving resources on a scale that few others in Northern Ireland can match.”

This new system reinforces RTU’s position as Northern Ireland’s market leader in responsible concrete manufacturing, combining innovation

and environmental accountability to deliver real, measurable impact.

It also forms part of a wider programme of strategic investment at RTU. The company operates a fleet of 34 lorries and routinely upgrades four – five mixer trucks annually, at an investment of approximately £170,000 per vehicle. Over the past three years, RTU has also commissioned a new batching plant, built an on-site maintenance shed for vehicle servicing and installed solar panels to support its environmental goals, representing a combined investment of around £1 million.

Robotic Sorting Plant Increases Recycling of Construction Waste at RGS Nordic

RGS Nordic, a leading Danish waste management company, has successfully implemented an advanced robotic sorting plant in collaboration with ZenRobotics® and Terex® Recycling Systems.

Specialising in construction and demolition waste as well as soil remediation, RGS Nordic processes up to one-third of Denmark’s total construction waste annually. With the new robotic sorting plant located centrally in Copenhagen, the company has improved its operations, maximising recycling rates through precise robotic sorting, ensuring materials are increasingly returned to the production cycle rather than downcycled or incinerated.

“We’ve been sorting waste for many years – it’s the bread and butter of our operations. What we saw in the ZenRobotics

and Terex Recycling Systems technology, combined with their expertise, was an extension and improvement of what we already do,” said Rasmus Brødsgaard Buch, COO of RGS Nordic.

The new facility features a comprehensive and highly automated sorting line designed for maximum efficiency and material recovery, with no hand sorting. At the front

end, a TSD-280 3D screening trommel processes up to 45 tph, separating oversize materials and eliminating the need for preshredding. This is followed by a ballistic screen that classifies materials into 2D, 3D, and fines smaller than 80 mm. Integrated magnets extract ferrous metals, while a dedicated feeding bunker provides consistent material flow to the robotic sorting line.

At the heart of the system are four Zen Robotics 4.1 Heavy Picker robots, capable of identifying and sorting up to 10 recyclable fractions in a single pass. These robots handle objects ranging from 80 mm to 1.2 m in size and weighing up to 40 kg. The AI-powered robots are designed to continuously improve in recognising valuable waste resources and can be adapted to sorting tasks based on customer demand and market opportunities. The entire operation is monitored and optimised through an advanced remote control and data system, which provides real-time insights into the composition and performance of the waste stream. In addition, the fully automated nature of the plant also enhances the safety of employees by minimising direct contact with waste.

TEREX RECYCLING SYSTEMS LAUNCHES THE TDS-820SE LOW SPEED SHREDDER recycling & waste management

Terex® Recycling Systems, manufacturer of modular recycling plants and products, has introduced the TDS-820SE, a versatile Static Electric Low Speed Primary Shredder. Designed to efficiently handle a wide range of materials, including construction and demolition waste, commercial and industrial waste, wood waste, green waste, POPs, bulky waste, and municipal solid waste, the TDS820SE has powerful twin shafts and is

equipped with aggressive teeth to deliver exceptional shredding performance and thorough material reduction. One of the standout features of the TDS-820SE is its customisable shredding programmes, which allow operators to tailor the machine’s settings to their specific requirements, optimising performance and minimising downtime. The independent shredding shafts further enhance the machine’s versatility, enabling it to handle a variety of materials with ease.

recycling & waste management

The TDS-820SE is powered by an electric hydrostatic drive, providing reliable operation and protection against contamination. Additionally, the bidirectional shredding capability allows for greater flexibility in material processing. The machine’s two-metre-long shafts, featuring fullywelded teeth, offer impressive throughput and excellent material reduction.

To further improve efficiency and reduce wrappage, the TDS-820SE incorporates independent gearboxes, allowing each shaft to be operated separately. This

feature is particularly beneficial when processing challenging materials. Additionally, the integrated transfer conveyor simplifies material handling, streamlining the overall recycling process.

Kenny Hull, Product and Commercial Manager at Terex Recycling Systems, commented: “We have further expanded the already proven shredding technology from our existing mobile portfolio with the added benefit of electric power, adding to the TDS-V20SE Medium Speed Shredder launched last year. The TDS-820SE represents

a significant advancement in shredding technology. Engineered with customisable features and a robust design, this machine delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of applications.

“This, along with its versatility, and efficiency make it an ideal solution for waste management, construction and demolition, and industrial recycling. The first unit has already been produced and is successfully integrated into a recycling line in England, proving its reliability and value for businesses looking to optimise their recycling operations.”

A SHOW OF SUCCESS

From top-class machinery to must-have local produce; livestock competitions to family-friendly entertainment, 2025 signified another sterling year for Balmoral Show. Now in its 156th year, the event not only played host to scorching May sunshine, but cast a light on the innovation and excitement currently capturing the hearts of the plant, construction, quarrying, and recycling industries. Thousands of visitors attended the 2025 Balmoral Show, in partnership with Ulster Bank, at the Eikon Exhibition Centre for a memorable four days, with rural and urban coming together to celebrate the finest

local livestock, food, drink and produce at Northern Ireland’s pinnacle agri-food event. The action-packed programme included sheep dog displays, the NI Food & Drink Pavilion, international show jumping, exclusive performances from the world-renowned JCB Dancing Diggers, and much more. Balmoral Show was once again organised by the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS), and the charity’s team of staff and dedicated volunteers were delighted to continue the event’s long legacy of recognising outstanding agricultural practice.

Rhonda Geary, RUAS Group Operations Director, commented: “This year’s Balmoral

Show in partnership with Ulster Bank was undoubtedly a great success. At the RUAS, we pride ourselves on being able to provide a shop window for the field to fork journey here in Northern Ireland and the people who make it all possible. To all our exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers and staff, we would just like to say a big thank you for making this year’s event so special.”

The Plant & Civil Engineer Team.

INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE AT ICE EXPO’S DEBUT OUTING

Over the course of two days at Punchestown, ICE Expo 2025 welcomed more than 6,300 attendees, featured 162 top-tier exhibitors, and generated over €15 million in sales — establishing itself as a core event for professionals in construction, engineering, and plant machinery across Ireland and beyond. Organised by a team led by Danielle McSorley and the dedicated ICE Expo

staff, the event earned positive feedback from both visitors and exhibitors.

Danielle commented: “The feedback has been extraordinary, and we’re thrilled to already be planning a bigger and better ICE Expo for 2027.”

From live demonstrations and new technology reveals, to meaningful networking and business development, the 2025 show has driven plans for expansion in 2027.

KOMATSU SMART CONSTRUCTION REPORTS ‘MAJOR’ PRODUCT EVOLUTION AND GROWTH

Smart Construction, the digital arm of Japanese machinery manufacturer Komatsu, has reported a 44 per cent adoption increase in its software as a service (SaaS) technology from FY2023 to FY2024, highlighting a rising demand for software in construction.

The business, which creates solutions to improve productivity and efficiencies across mixed construction sectors, also doubled its headcount and announced its excavator guidance products are now compatible with industry-leading tilt rotators brands.

A key driver of Komatsu Smart Construction’s growth has been its focus on improving and refining its already popular technologies. Following a 30 per cent increase in users across its Remote product, the brand has announced a license for the cloud-based solution will be included as standard with all purchases of Komatsu-branded guidance and control systems, including the newly-released PC220LCi-12 dubbed ‘the most advanced’ excavator ever.

Bart Vingerhoets, Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction explained: “We’re proud to work with as many people as possible across the industry to develop our tools to be even more effective. Our users don’t just use our tools, they shape them.

“As European construction continues to embrace digital transformation, we’re committed to accelerating that progress and making jobsite management more sustainable, connected and accessible than ever.

Additional product development successes from the brand include the relaunch of its pivotal drone surveying assistance solution, Edge, now in its second major hardware edition since the launch, and its seventh version of software.

Edge uses a custom-built AI algorithm to automatically remove buildings, equipment and vegetation from the 3D point cloud it processes from the drone footage, delivering a clear, accurate, 3D representation of the site.

The tool processes high quality and precise data from the job site, providing the user with a direct way of calculating job site progress quickly and identifying any challenges or unforeseen considerations.

Bart added: “At Komatsu Smart Construction, we’re also prioritising partnerships, connecting with other technology to create truly brand agnostic solutions that support the whole industry. Last year the team launched a new version of the Smart Construction Fleet solution, overhauling the user interface and upgrading the algorithms to improve accuracy and user experience.”

Vertical Hire taking delivery of the Genie Z62. VP CPH Ltd collecting a new JLG 1250AJP from WAC McCandless.

Sany SY155 collected by Robert Magee.A new Adler K600:240 sweeper for Acorn Developments , from Ballyward Plant Services.

A very special JCB 4CX Pro ‘Millionth Edition’ sold to Francie & Joe McBride at Balmoral Show 2025!.

A new TB230 for SPR McGowan Tree Services.

A fresh second hand Takeuchi TB295W delivered to Clacy Plant Hire in Kerry by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

Eoghan McEnery of Mac Fuels & Plant Hire receiving his new Dynapac CA3500D from WAC McCandless.

New yanmar VIO50 and SV26 for Gortleee Hire From Crumlin Plant Sales. Bruce Eakin of TG Eakin & Sons collecting their new Komatsu PC210LC-11 from WAC McCandless.

RMP Hire taking delivery of 3 Faraone Elevah 5 picking units, sold by Inspectec Ireland.

Campbell Contracts taking deivery of CX85D.

Engcon EC209bs twin hitch tolt rotator for Lowry Construction from BPS.

New TB325R for Diamond Landscapes.Thanks to Arthur & the team at Carrickmacstay from Newry who took delivery of this class new JCB 540-180.

A lovely new JCB CT260-120 Compaction Roller off to Islandview Plant in Toomebridge.

New Yanmar VIO27 for Brackley landscapes from Crumlin Plant Sales.

Stuart Hanna taking delivery of his brand new SANY SY50.

Takeuchi TB235-2 with a McQuaid Grapple sold to Tool Centre in Newcastle by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

New Dieci Mini Agri 26.6 delivered to R Crosby in Omagh by Alan mIlne Tractors Newry.

new Yanmar SV08 for Bann hire from Crumlin Plant Sales.

RM Cleary Tarmacadam collecting a new Dynapac SD2500WS asphalt paver from WAC McCandless.

A new MDE Vortex 120 for Samuel Contracts, from Ballyward Plant Services.

Delivery of a new Manitou 1650R Skidsteer to Ewing Farm.

Nigel Kennedy bought a new CX130E from Cowan Bros 29.05.

Two new Dynapac rollers sold to VP CPH Ltd by WAC McCandless.

20 Groundhog GP360FP Fusion Pulse Eco Wellfare Units sold to Andrew Hutchinson CP Hire.

A new Giant G2700HD+ tele for R Knight, from Ballyward Plant Services.

Two Hiab Multilift Ultima 24 hookloaders sold to McKinstry Skip Hire sold by NML Solutios .

3 generations from A&P structural Engineering collecting new Manitou MT1440.

Five new JLG scissor lifts sold to Boom & Platform Hire by WAC McCandless.

New Alma crawler Fx3.0 Multiloader sold to Flynn Crane Hire bu Inspectec Ireland .

New Takeuchi TB216 collected by Creative Construction in Downpatrick from Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

Telehandler 1840E is off to its new home with Kevin Meaney..

John O’Donnell Construction 29.05.

Dixon bros took delivery of a new Auger Torque, sold by SME Plant Sales.

Clondern Civil Works & Pland Hire Ltd.Two of four new Komatsu D71PX-24E0 dozers sold to JD Excavations by WAC McCandless.

Sany SY26U and SY60C delivered to Brandon Plant & Tool Hire .

A new Giant GT5048 & Adler Sweeper for F Donnelly, from Ballyward Plant Services.

New Yanmar VIO80 for Errigal Rentals from Crumlin Plant Sales.

New messersi TC95 for MK Plant from Crumlin Plant Sales.

New Yanmar SV26 for Dynamic Tank Solutions from Crumlin Plant Sales.

Sq520 Monobloc breaker sold to Gerry Kearns Plant Hire, by SME Plant Sales.

A new Takeuchi TCR50-2 fitted with an Ascendant A18 lift collected by PLant Sales ltd in Strabane from Alan mIlne Tractors Newry.

SANY Telehandler STH1440 (14 metres) to Drogheda Hire..

A new JLG Toucan T10E-L sold to Central Tool & Plant Hire by WAC McCandless.

Ray Vaughan, RMP Hire confirmed order of Zoomlion units, sold by Inspectec Ireland .

Richard & Ryan Alexander from Acorn Developments with their new MT1840.

Three of six new JLG 450AJ boom lifts sold to VP CPH Ltd by WAC McCandless.

Kaeser Kompressoren M65PE compressors sold to CP Hire by Glendun Plant Sales.

A new Develon DX100w-7 c:w Engcon EC209bs for B Murray Contracts, from Ballyward Plant Services.

New C50 Track dumper for Errigal Rentals from Crumlin Plant Sales.

New Yanmar VIO17 and VIO57 for Brackley landscapes from.

New Yanmar SV08 for Newbridge Hire from Crumlin Plant Sales.

New Dieci Farmer 34.7 delivered to the Dunlop Family in Glenarm by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

A new Giant G1200 for G&K Prescott, from Ballyward Plant Services.

Gerry Kearns Plant Hire getting a new Intermercato AB Grx rotating grab, sold by SME Plant Sales.

Two new Dynapac CS1400VI rollers sold to Roadstone by WAC McCandless.

GUIDE BUYERS

PLANT DISTRIBUTORS

Crumlin Plant Sales Ltd

DISTRIBUTOR OF: Ammann rollers & compaction equipment, Ausa mini dumpers, Beton concrete vibratory equipment, Radiodetection cable and pipe detection equipment, Hycon hydraulic power packs and tools, Rotair tools and compressors, Yanmar mini excavators. 90a Blackisland Road, Annaghmore, Portadown BT62 1NH Tel. 028 3885 2540 Fax. 028 3885 2541 E:

• Excavators 1 – 45 tonne

• 6 – 8 Wheeled Tippers • Mini Digger Hire • Rockhammers

• Rollers

FORTHILL ROAD • DROMORE • CO. DOWN BT25 1RF Tel/Fax: (028) 9269 2542 • Mob: 07860 704502 Email: info@dandds-contracts.com

90a Blackisland Road, Annaghmore, Portadown BT62 1NH Tel. 028 3885 2540 Fax. 028 3885 2541 E: info@crumlinplantsales.co.uk

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Kubota Construction EvoQuip Screening + Crushing Kubota Agri + Groundcare LiuGong Excavators Merlo Telehandlers