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PLANT & CIVIL SEPT-OCT 2026 ISSN 2041-7829

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THE JCB HYDROMAX STORY:

Racing to a Hydrogen-Powered Land Speed Record

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Welcome

FIND US ONLINE Visit our website, plantandcivilengineer.com Plant & Civil Engineer the premier publication for the plant, construction, quarrying, agricultural and civil engineering industries in Ireland.

Last issue, I was delighted to share a piece reflecting on my incredible experience at JCB’s Headquarters. From machinery launches, product presentations and a quarry visit, every experience during the trip could be considered a standout moment. However, there was one special highlight during the visit that I have eagerly been following the progression of since; the announcement that JCB was set to return to the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah to attempt a new speed record – this time using hydrogen power.

Fast-forward, and that ambition has now become a reality.

Driven by Wing Commander Andy Green OBE, JCB awe-inspiringly set a new world land speed record of 406.320 mph with the Hydromax.

It’s been an exciting undertaking, and one which we’re thrilled to feature as this edition’s cover story as JCB takes us behind-the-scenes of how this remarkable achievement came together.

Golda Burrows General Sales Manager Sarah Nelson Editor Martin Elliman General Manager Joel Byers Production Manager Brenda Kerr 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 CONTACT Golda: 07724 192032 or Martin: 07985 887171 Email: golda@4squaremedia.net Email: martin@4squaremedia.net

4SM (NI) Ltd is part of the North West News Group

In light of Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), a new environmental policy introduced by the European Union (EU), and with UK CBAM set to come into effect on 1 January 2027, it’s now more important than ever that our industries are equipped with both the opportunities presented and the relevant information to ensure they are prepared. Find out more in our special CBAM feature.

Elsewhere in this issue, we explore how smart construction solutions are helping improve productivity and efficiency on-site. We also focus on compact equipment, showcasing machines that deliver versatility and performance, as well as material handling, looking at the latest solutions adding productivity to your operation.

Read on for more news, views and updates you won’t want to miss, including Ballyward’s Giant Engcon Dig Day event and the unveiling of LOLEX’s new headquarters. And, if you haven’t already, make sure to enter this year’s 20th Plant & Civil Engineer Awards. The closing date is 2 October.

I do hope you enjoy the read, and remember that you can remain on the pulse of the industry'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!

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: © Plant & Civil Engineer 2026.

All material in this publication is copyright, including advertisements which have been prepared for advertisers. No part of it may be reproduced in any way whatever or stored in electronic retrieval systems without the written permission of the publishers.

We are a completely independent voice and are not connected to any Institutes or Associations within the industry. Our aim is to publish accurate, specific and dedicated information, targeting each sector of the industry, throughout Ireland. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied by the contributors. All rights reserved.

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Sarah Nelson Editor Email: pceeditor@4squaremedia.net M: 07789 756 815

Contents

SEPT-OCT 2026

News

View from the Cab

04 PlantWorx 2027 is going from

40 Built for the big leagues: JCB unveils the 520X

strength-to-strength

08 Ballyward Plant Services hosts Giant Engcon Dig Day

Cover Story 12 Salt, speed and hydrogen: Inside JCB’s record-breaking world land speed run

18 From Wrexham to Lord’s: Creagh driving landmark stadia developments

58 LOLEX opens the doors to an exciting new chapter with its

From the Desk of 34 Gordon Best, Regional Director, MPANI

new Antrim HQ

72 The litter bin waste operation

36 Karen McShane, Past President, CIHT

behind Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026

20th Plant & Civil Engineer Awards 2026

Spotlight On

44 Awards, Entertainment and a Celebration 20 Years in the Making

46 Material handling 26 CBAM

Sales and Services

62 Smart construction solutions

86 Plant sales

73 Compact equipment

89 Buyers’ guide

• WORKING AT HEIGHT • EXCAVATORS &

Next Issue OCT-NOV

ATTACHMENTS • AUCTIONS & FINANCE

• TRANSITIONING TO NET ZERO: OPEN TOPICS • RECYCLING: OPEN TOPICS

Copy D/Line: 16th October To Print: 23rd October Publication Date: 30th October

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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plantworx

PLANTWORX 2027 IS GOING FROM STRENGTH-TO-STRENGTH PlantWorx 2027 has announced that new live demonstration features, three dedicated indoor theatres, growing industry association involvement and a programme of new partnerships are being developed ahead of the event’s NEC Birmingham outing.

Taking place 22 – 24 June 2027, the next PlantWorx will combine indoor exhibition space with extensive outdoor exhibition and demonstration areas, including dedicated digging capability for heavy construction machinery.

The move marks an important evolution for PlantWorx: retaining the live, working construction equipment DNA that has always defined the event, while creating a bigger platform for exhibitors, visitors and the wider industry.

And in 2027, PlantWorx will be part of an even bigger industry gathering, taking place alongside InstallerSHOW, Professional Woodworking Expo and the Painting & Decorating Show at the NEC across the same three days.

A LIVE SHOWCASE The ability to see machinery working has always been fundamental to PlantWorx, and that remains firmly at the centre of plans for 2027.

Exhibitors will showcase working machinery and run demonstrations from their own stands throughout the three-day event, with dedicated outdoor exhibition areas providing the space for equipment to be put through its paces.

New for 2027 will be the PlantWorx Live Showcase – a dedicated outdoor theatrestyle demonstration area giving exhibitors an additional platform to demonstrate machinery, attachments, equipment and technology in front of a live audience.

of Plant Theatre will look ahead at the technologies, skills and developments changing how construction machinery is designed, powered, operated and managed.

Crucially, the programme is not being developed by PlantWorx in isolation. The team is working with industry associations to help shape the content and delivery of the theatres.

COMING TOGETHER One of the biggest changes for 2027 will be the wider industry environment surrounding PlantWorx at its new NEC home. For the first time, PlantWorx will take place at the same time as three other Nineteen Group events – installerSHOW, Professional Woodworking Expo and the Painting & Decorating Show – all running from 22 – 24 June 2027 at the NEC.

The industry’s response to the developing 2027 proposition is already being reflected in exhibitor take-up, with a growing number of major construction equipment manufacturers committing to the event.

Manufacturers already signed up include Hyundai, Wacker Neuson, Dieci, Develon, Zoomlion, SANY, Sunward, Manitou, Magni Telehandlers, Hydrema, Hidromek and AUSA.

The development continues inside the NEC, where PlantWorx 2027 will feature three dedicated content theatres: the PlantWorx Main Stage, Technical Theatre and Future of Plant Theatre.

They will be joined by a growing range of equipment, attachment, technology and service providers, while further major OEMs have already reserved space ahead of additional exhibitor announcements.

The PlantWorx Main Stage will provide a platform for the major conversations affecting construction equipment owners, operators, contractors and the wider industry.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

Behind-the-scenes, further developments are also taking shape. The PlantWorx team is working with a growing number of industry associations (including CEA, CPA, and HAE), organisations and partners to develop additional features and initiatives for 2027.

A GROWING COMMITMENT

DEDICATED CONTENT THEATRES

4

PlantWorx will represent the machinery, equipment and technology that gets construction moving. InstallerSHOW serves professionals across installation and the wider built environment, Professional Woodworking Expo brings together the woodworking and joinery sectors, while the Painting & Decorating Show represents the specialist finishing trades.

While these partnerships cannot yet be revealed, announcements are planned over the coming weeks and months as the event continues to develop.

Rather than replacing demonstrations on individual stands, the Live Showcase will complement them with a more structured programme of activity.

The Technical Theatre will get closer to the practical, operational and technical challenges facing businesses, providing a space for specialist knowledge and real-world insight. Meanwhile, the Future

Together, the four specialist events will bring complementary sections of construction and the built environment together at one venue.

Live demonstrations, dedicated demo plots and digging activities will all play a major role throughout the event.

For exhibitor enquiries, demonstration plot availability or to claim the CEA member discount, visit plantworx. co.uk or contact the PlantWorx team.

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news

New Approach Will Lead to Better Quality, Longer Lasting Road Maintenance, Says Kimmins in equal measure, using the resources we have in a more targeted and effective way.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has launched a Road Maintenance Strategy focussed on better quality maintenance, delivering longerlasting repairs and making greater use of updated technology.

“The new maintenance strategy sets out how we can get there. We are moving in a new direction, one that will lead to a better quality of maintenance and longer lasting repairs. We will harness the latest technology to target resources where they are needed most, which will in turn ensure we are delivering the best possible value for public money.”

Speaking as the strategy was published, Minister Kimmins said: “Our roads underpin every aspect of our daily lives.

They create jobs and drive economic growth by making business possible and connecting communities.

“I recognise the importance of maintaining and improving this valuable asset and a considerable volume of work has already been done in terms of repairs and resurfacing. We all want our roads to be better and to achieve that, we must be ambitious and innovative

With around 26,000km of roads across the network there is no quick fix which will address every defect on every road but new technology will be used to target resources where they are needed most.

The Minister added: “The new approach to maintenance will have three fundamental principles at its heart – higher quality,

Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, has launched the Department’s new Road Maintenance Strategy.

timely and durable maintenance targeted where it is needed using new technology to assist with monitoring the condition of the network. Environmental sustainability will be embedded into our practices, using environmentally-sustainable materials where appropriate, and designing interventions that are resilient to climate change.

“Equally, this strategy is about financial sustainability and ensuring that we invest in our infrastructure assets for the wider benefit of all.”

GRAHAM Opens Path to Skills and Career Progression for Site Workers A key feature of the initiative is GRAHAM’s decision to bridge the funding gap that can often prevent workers from accessing qualifications. While the CITB grant supports £600 of the NVQ Level 2 cost, the qualification costs £800. GRAHAM covered the remaining £200 per candidate, ensuring the opportunity was accessible to those who may otherwise have missed out.

For many construction workers, gaining the qualifications needed to progress can be held back by a simple but significant barrier: the cost. GRAHAM is helping to remove that barrier for 20 entrylevel workers across its Dyecoats and Brewery Gardens projects.

The two residential developments, being delivered for Latimer, the development arm of Clarion Housing Group, are located in Leeds, where the Dyecoats regeneration scheme will deliver up to 1,600 new homes, and in Manchester, where the Brewery Gardens scheme is delivering 505 new homes, including the first social rent homes built in Manchester city centre in 40 years.

Many entry-level site-based workers can spend years moving from project to project without gaining the qualifications needed to progress. As a result, many leave site with a Green CSCS Card rather than achieving PLANT & CIVIL

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PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

Celebrating skills and progression at Brewery Gardens.

a Blue Skilled Worker Card, limiting career opportunities and earning potential.

To address this challenge, GRAHAM hosted on-site skills drop-in sessions across both projects, inviting the entire workforce to learn more about NVQ Level 2 opportunities.

Supply chain partners were also encouraged to identify and

nominate individuals who would benefit from the programme.

As a result, 10 people from each project were enrolled, with 10 participants already successfully completing their NVQ Level 2 qualification, five at Boddingtons and five at Dyecoats. Impressively, the journey from securing funding to delegates receiving their certificates took just eight weeks.

Commenting on the initiative, Helen Francis, Skills Solutions Group Director, said: “GRAHAM is demonstrating genuine commitment to workforce development by becoming the first contractor we have partnered with to bridge the CITB grant funding shortfall.

This investment removes a significant barrier to upskilling, enabling more operatives to gain nationally recognised NVQ qualifications while supporting long-term competency, safety and career progression across the workforce. We are proud to be working alongside GRAHAM in setting a positive and leading example for the wider industry.”

www.plantandcivilengineer.com

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open day

BRINGING THE INDUSTRY TOGETHER:

BALLYWARD PLANT SERVICES HOSTS GIANT ENGCON DIG DAY

Ballyward Plant Services recently welcomed the industry to a special twoday GIANT Engcon Dig Day event, showcasing the latest equipment, attachments and technology from some of the industry’s leading brands.

Over the years, Ballyward Plant Services has built a strong reputation as a trusted name in the plant and machinery sector, and this special open event provided a fitting opportunity to bring together the company’s customers, industry partners and machinery enthusiasts, all the while showcasing the breadth of its offerings.

Held on 21st and 22nd August, the calendar highlight granted visitors the chance to meet the Ballyward Plant Services team – including Robert McAlerney, Conor McAlerney and Brian McCartan – as well as explore the machinery on offer and, importantly, witness the quality equipment through a programme of live demonstrations and machinery test drives.

A STRONG PORTFOLIO OF LEADING BRANDS Ballyward Plant Services has been widely acknowledged for its comprehensive knowledge and support. As a result, the dig day reflected that approach, with visitors able to speak directly with representatives and learn more about the machines, technology

Conor McAlerney, Brian McCartan and Robert McAlerney.

and attachments available to them. In particular, they got up close with an extensive selection of brands equipped with engcon tiltrotators and a huge number of engcon attachments. Visitors further had the opportunity to experience Tobroco Giant’s advanced machinery and attachments. Built around versatility, performance and getting more done from compact, capable machines, the franchise was one of the highlights of the event for the industry.

That’s not all – they were additionally able to witness firsthand Hydrema dump trucks; Develon excavators; MDE attachments, including grabs, shears and saw attachments; Adler attachments; and Unicontrol machine control

Attendees had the chance to try out a range of engcon tiltrotators and attachments.

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represented by Top Survey.

Speaking on his attendance at the event, Matthew Kelly from Top Survey, said: “It’s fantastic to be involved in an open day like this. It gives us the opportunity to showcase what machine control and, in particular, Unicontrol can do, and how it makes construction a lot more innovative and efficient. It’s been great to work alongside Robert and the Ballyward Plant Services team.”

MORE THAN MACHINERY Attendees had the chance to learn more about the latest products, developments and technologies. Exclusive event offers and giveaways further added to the atmosphere, while food and refreshments enabled

Machinery test-drives allowed the leading brands to be seen in operation.

customers, visitors and members of the team to catch up and chat throughout the two-day event.

For the Ballyward Plant Services team, the GIANT Engcon Dig Day was about more than showcasing machinery. It was an opportunity to bring customers together, share knowledge and recognise the relationships built over many years. With demonstrations, discussions and plenty of time for conversation, the event reflected the practical, people-focused approach that has become an important part of the company’s work – combining quality equipment with knowledgeable support and a strong understanding of the industries its customers work in.

Remarking on the incredible response to the dig days, Ballyward Plant Services’ Brian McCartan said: “It was fantastic to see so many people from across the industry come along and support the GIANT Engcon Dig Day. For us, the event was about bringing customers, manufacturers and industry partners together in one place, giving everyone the opportunity to see the latest machinery and technology in action. The response over the two days was brilliant, and we’d like to thank everyone who took the time to come along, get involved and speak to the team and our partners.”

Refreshments were on offer at the event.

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news

TAKEUCHI ADDS NEW 15-TONNE POWER TO ITS RANGE Takeuchi UK has unveiled two distinct models, TB3150 and TB3150R, which are powering in at 15-tonnes and delivering versatility in this busy weight class.

for improved performance during demanding, multi-function operations.

A new Yanmar engine rated at 85 kW (114 hp) delivers the power required for a wide range of applications.

The latest 15-tonne TB3150 with unique offset boom functionality delivers increased horsepower and 3-Series styling throughout.

Inside, operators benefit from a redesigned cab focused on comfort and ease of use. Features include automatic climate control, heated air suspension seat and keyless start with pin-code and RFID for added site security. Its 8-inch touch screen display, 270-degree camera views, intuitive jog dial and multi-switch control panel allow convenient access to common machine functions. There are additionally pilot-operated joystick controls along with electro-hydraulic (EH) controls for functions, such as travel, dozer blade and boom swing.

TB3150 features a boom swing system that allows operators to dig offset without repositioning the machine, making it well-suited for utility work and applications that require precise positioning – ideal in tight spaces and applications that need precise positioning.

Both of the Takeuchi 15-tonne models incorporate Takeuchi’s latest 3-Series enhancements, including significantly increased hydraulic horsepower

The TB3150 at work.

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PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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cover story

SALT, SPEED AND HYDROGEN:

INSIDE JCB’S RECORD-BREAKING WORLD LAND SPEED RUN Four hundred and six miles per hour!

In fact, the JCB Hydromax managed an average of 406.320mph (653.909km/h) over two runs, in two directions, to achieve the company’s second historic World Land Speed Record, on the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA.

HYDROGEN POWER PROVES ITS POTENTIAL Driven by the world’s fastest man, Wing Commander Andy Green, the JCB Hydromax set a new speed record for a car powered by zero carbon hydrogen engines. This follows the company’s diesel-powered title, set at the same location 20 years ago.

“That is incredibly important to JCB. We are not demonstrating a technology that exists only in a laboratory. At its heart, this technology is based upon the engines and engineering principles that we

JCB Hydromax 406.320mph FIA world land speed record.

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understand and that we use every day in construction machinery around the world,” said JCB Chairman Lord Bamford.

“The internal-combustion engine powered by hydrogen can be one of the important solutions for the future, particularly for the heavy-duty machinery that builds our roads, our homes, our cities and our infrastructure.”

Lord Bamford set the JCB Hydromax team the challenge of designing, engineering and then running a zero-emission hydrogen powered land speed car just over a year ago, as part of a £100m drive to demonstrate that hydrogen is a viable fuel for construction and agricultural equipment. JCB has already launched a hydrogen-powered generator set and the innovative 3CX Hydrogen backhoe loader to the market, but this land

JCB Chairman, Lord Bamford.

speed record demonstrates the wider potential for the zero-carbon fuel.

Though sharing the block and crankshaft with the construction engine, which produces 76hp in the 3CX Hydrogen backhoe, the land speed car’s engines develop up to 800hp each.

cover story THE JCB HYDROMAX STORY: RACING TO A HYDROGEN-POWERED LAND SPEED RECORD

JCB Hydromax Driver, Andy Gree

The JCB team.

Long-time supporters Prodrive and Ricardo helped with the development of the car and its engines and their staff played an integral part of the team in Bonneville.

Jo Bamford’s Ryze Power supplied the hydrogen on site, while Goodyear developed a unique set of tyres for the car, capable of achieving the desired speeds. Despite that development, the full set of tyres had to be changed after every run that exceeded 300mph. In total, a team of 65 specialist engineers was assembled, including 25 staff from within JCB’s own varied engineering and innovation divisions.

THE NEXT STOP: BONNEVILLE Following shakedown testing in the UK, the car was shipped to Bonneville in time for the annual Speed Week festival in August. Run by the South California Timing Association (SCTA), Speed Week saw the team achieving an SCTA record of 368.347mph (592.797km/h), while using two engines developing around 600hp each.

JCB then installed new engines, that had been checked and sealed at its factory in the UK by the FIA (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile). These new zero carbon motors promised the full 800hp each, indicating that higher speeds were possible.

n OBE.

For the FIA-sanctioned land speed record runs, the car travels along a 10-mile course, marked on the compacted salt surface. To achieve a record, the car has to be timed through mile 5.5-6.5 in one direction, be turned around, refuelled and readied and then pass through the same measured mile in the opposite direction within one hour.

The two engines produced so much torque, however, that it was necessary to limit their performance in first and second gears, to prevent wheelspin on the ever-changing salt surface. Green then accelerated through the first four miles, to enter the timed mile at a desired speed of around 410-415mph.

He would then turn off the engines while still in that flying mile. This helped to start the slowing process, purge any remaining hydrogen from the engines and helped with cooling. The JCB Hydromax is fitted with powerful carbon brakes that are used to slow from 200-100mph.

While that may sound simple, the JCB Hydromax is 32-foot long and it has not been designed to make three-point turns.

JCB therefore loaded it onto a trailer to make rotating it through 180 degrees easier. A new set of tyres was fitted, while up to 250kg of ice had to be loaded into the car’s cooling system, melting as the car completed each run. The two parachutes, that contribute to stopping the car from high speeds, also had be replaced for the return run.

JCB Hydromax uses a six-speed gearbox, that passes drive from the two engines to both axles. Designed to function from around 50mph, it was necessary for a powerful Land Rover Defender Octa to push the JCB Hydromax up to that speed, before Andy Green could engage drive.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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cover story

JCB’s hydrogen-powered backhoe loader.

The engines were then declutched before the first of two parachutes was deployed.

As that first parachute creates up to 1G of deceleration, it is important to stop the engines turning before deployment, as the sudden retardation could cause momentary oil starvation within the engines if still operating. A second parachute was deployed to bring the car to a halt.

SECURING THE WORLD LAND SPEED RECORD The FIA officials checked their timing gear and JCB Chairman Lord Bamford was presented with the World Land Speed Record trophy, standing among the team and the extended Bamford family, who had all travelled to Utah to witness the event.

“This achievement is about more than going fast,” said Lord Bamford. “It

is about demonstrating engineering solutions, that the internal combustion engine powered by hydrogen can be part of the solution for the future.

“This technology is based on the machines that we are building today. It proves that we are still designing, still engineering and still prepared to take risks.”

JCB Engineering Director and Project Leader Ryan Ballard added: “This record belongs to the engineering team, which took a hydrogen digger engine and made it the fastest of its kind on earth. This has been an amazing challenge. We came here fully prepared and the car delivered.”

A LASTING LEGACY The transfer of technology from salt to site doesn’t stop there though. While the land speed record validates Lord Bamford’s belief

that hydrogen is a potential zero carbon fuel of the future for construction and agricultural equipment, the experience gained throughout the project will have a lasting effect on JCB’s machines today and tomorrow.

For Project Engineer Erin Murphy and Fuel System Engineer Jordan Ireland, the JCB Hydromax land speed attempt has been the opportunity of a lifetime. Having come up through JCB’s graduate engineering apprentice degree scheme, their day jobs are in engineering and development within the company’s innovation department.

Working on a range of new technology developments, including electric and hydrogen powered machinery, they were a natural fit for the JCB Hydromax team.

“It’s been insane,” said Erin. “It’s hard to believe that this is a job. We’ve all learnt so much being here. It’s been about how so many different types of experience and expertise can be thrown together and can all pull together.”

“We’ve been able to see a completely different side of the industry and I’ve been able to learn a lot more around hydrogen fuel systems,” added Jordan.

Working with hydrogen provider Ryze Power, the team also demonstrated that supplying fuel to a remote off-grid site can be easily accomplished. Not only can the fuel be safely transported to site, but refuelling can be carried out in a matter of minutes. That fact, as much as the power and speed of the race car, proves that hydrogen on a construction project can provide a zero-carbon solution for a wide range of equipment.

JCB Hydromax Team celebrate 406.320 mph world land speed record with the Bamford family.

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The JCB Hydromax’s legacy will reach father than a trophy in the company’s Staffordshire head office reception.

The real steel deal Manoeuvrability, speed, agility and power.

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news

How a Passion for Farm Machinery Led to an Engineering Career on experience while developing his engineering knowledge.

A childhood interest with farm machinery has helped set one former Castlederg High School pupil on the path to a career in engineering with Terex.

Now, he is encouraging others to consider degree apprenticeships as a route into a career in engineering.

“Throughout the four-year apprenticeship, the manufacturing fabrication team were a huge help to my development and learning,” he said. “They also supported me with university projects throughout the course, including my final-year project.”

Kyle Young, a former pupil of Castlederg High School, has completed a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering through a fouryear degree apprenticeship programme with Terex and Ulster University.

Kyle’s passion for engineering began at an early age through his interest in machinery and understanding how things work.

“Growing up, I had an interest in how things work and how they were made, particularly machinery on my family farm,” he said. “This led me to study engineering throughout school and college full-time,

Reflecting on his apprenticeship journey, Kyle believes the experience gained in the workplace was just as valuable as the qualification itself.

Kyle Young.

which then led me to apply for the Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering degree apprenticeship.”

practical industry experience, allowing Kyle to develop his skills while working within a real manufacturing environment.

The four-year programme combined academic study at Ulster University’s Derry/ Londonderry campus with

Throughout the programme, Kyle worked as part of the manufacturing fabrication team at Terex Omagh, gaining hands-

“Studying engineering at university while working in industry gave me the opportunity to apply what I was learning in a practical environment,” he said. “It helped me develop both academically and professionally throughout the four years.”

Having successfully completed the programme, Kyle plans to continue developing his career at Terex as a Manufacturing Engineer within the fabrication team.

Peter Sebold in Key Accounts Role at Hyundai Peter Sebold has taken on the role of Key Account Manager Europe at Hyundai Construction Equipment, moving from his previous position in product management within the company. A well-known and respected figure in the equipment industry, Mr Sebold brings a wealth of experience to the role, having held senior positions spanning sales, marketing and product management with several leading manufacturers.

Moving to Hyundai in 2019, he has experience in sales support, distributor training, product launches, marketing support and events. He is perfectly placed to build upon Hyundai’s recent successes with large fleet operators across the Continent.

“This role represents a natural evolution of my professional journey, bringing together the knowledge, experience, industry insight and personal values that I have gained over the years,” said Mr Sebold.

“Having worked closely with our product team, dealer network and with customers PLANT & CIVIL

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across Europe, I look forward to building even stronger relationships with some of our most important fleet owners, construction groups, rental companies, industrial operators and international accounts.”

The construction equipment market continues to evolve rapidly and Hyundai is developing to meet that challenge, with a wide range of new machinery joining its traditional excavator and wheel loader models. This includes a renewed focus on compact models, such as skid steers and compact tracked loaders, along with a move to develop highly specialised sector-specific machinery, for demolition and materials handling. The recent launch of the company’s Next Generation of crawler excavators has also seen Hyundai’s profile rise within the heavy equipment business.

“Customers are looking for more than just machines,” said Mr Sebold. “They expect reliable partners, who can support their business through increased

Peter Sebold.

productivity and uptime, while focussing on sustainability and innovation.

“My objective is to position Hyundai as a preferred strategic partner for key accounts across Europe, by delivering customer-focused solutions, competitive total cost of ownership, best-in-class service and support and innovative technologies that will help customers to improve efficiency and profitability.”

Mr Sebold takes over the key account role from Christophe Lecarpentier.

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stadia construction

FROM WREXHAM TO LORD’S: CREAGH DRIVING LANDMARK STADIA DEVELOPMENTS The project will not only elevate the matchday experience but also help position STōK Cae Ras as a venue capable of hosting major competitions, reinforcing its status as one of football’s most historic grounds.

From the resurgence of Wrexham AFC to the continued evolution of the Home of Cricket, Creagh Concrete is playing a key role in shaping some of the UK’s most high-profile stadia developments.

Its involvement in the redevelopment of the iconic Kop at STōK Cae Ras and the Allen Stand at Lord’s Cricket Ground highlights both the scale of its capability and the adaptability of its precast terracing solutions.

Lord’s Cricket Ground.

At Wrexham, Creagh is supporting the delivery of a landmark 5,500-capacity Kop stand – an integral part of the club’s wider stadium transformation. Designed to reinstate a four-sided ground,

the new stand incorporates safe standing, enhanced accessibility and modern hospitality facilities, reflecting the ambition to future-proof the stadium and meet top-tier standards.

Creagh will produce 5,000lm of terracing, step blocks, terrace & raker walls and terrace stairs for the Kop. Creagh’s scope of works also include stairs, landings and finishing works.

Meanwhile in London, Creagh’s expertise extends to the prestigious Allen Stand redevelopment at Lord’s, where the company was responsible for the manufacture of the precast terracing elements. Part of the MCC’s long-term vision for the ground, the project will deliver increased capacity, improved accessibility and enhanced spectator facilities, including new hospitality areas and modern amenities across multiple levels.

Allen Stand at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

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stadia construction

Creagh’s expertise extends to the prestigious Allen Stand redevelopment at Lord’s.

With a design that carefully balances innovation with heritage, the new stand will preserve historic features while introducing modern construction techniques and sustainability measures such as solar integration and BREEAM-aligned targets.

These landmark projects reflect a broader shift in stadia construction, where speed, flexibility and cost efficiency remain essential, but must now be matched by integrated

Creagh’s approach, centred on offsite manufacturing and early-stage collaboration, ensures that complex terracing systems are delivered with consistency, safety and minimal disruption to live environments.

highest standards of quality and durability.

This is particularly critical in high-profile venues such as Lord’s and STōK Cae Ras, where performance, safety and spectator experience are paramount.

By manufacturing in controlled environments and co-ordinating design, production and installation, Creagh reduces build time while maintaining the

From regional stadiums to internationally recognised venues, Creagh Concrete continues to deliver terracing solutions that go beyond traditional expectations,

design responsibility, programme certainty and technical precision.

CREAGH CONCRETE IS PLAYING A KEY ROLE IN SHAPING SOME OF THE UK’S MOST HIGH-PROFILE STADIA.

Broadhurst Park from SMRE by

Mark Lee.

combining engineering expertise with a progressive, future-focused approach to stadia construction.

For more information, visit www.creaghconcrete.com

At Wrexham, Creagh is supporting the delivery of a landmark 5,500-capacity Kop stand.

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dealer milestone

SLEATOR PLANT MARKS MAJOR MILESTONE IN SANY SUCCESS JOURNEY SANY has undoubtedly secured its status as one of the most exciting construction equipment manufacturers in the world, and the brand is continuing to push boundaries even more with the continued evolution of its topclass machinery. Globally considered a leader in innovation, it has engineered a line-up that combines sheer hydraulic power with legendary reliability.

When it came to the deal, Sleator Plant’s Area Sales Manager Amanda McNally took the reins. The sale represents another chapter in her SANY success story, a brand which she has accumulated comprehensive experience and expertise in since joining the team. This upward trajectory has been reflected, too, by her recognition as Leading Salesperson for Telehandlers in UK & Ireland at last year’s SANY UK & Ireland Dealer Conference.

Closer to home, as SANY continues to reinforce its position as a go-to industry choice, Sleator Plant is growing alongside the brand, going from strength-to-strength as a trusted supplier of premium construction equipment across all of Ireland. In addition to representing Genie Access Equipment and Mecalac Construction Equipment, the company stands proudly as the official dealer for SANY across the entire island of Ireland from its strategically-located depots in Belfast and Dublin, making a mark on the industry with the extensive inventory and support available.

Prior to the purchase of the SY235LC, the foundations of Sleator Plant and Shannon Valley Group’s partnership were already firmly in place, reflected Amanda.

A MAJOR HANDOVER Sleator Plant’s ongoing SANY momentum was highlighted recently through a major deal with Shannon Valley Group on the new SY235LC excavator in which the company attained the first one in Ireland. The machine’s handover was an exciting milestone and a testament to both companies’ continued commitment to success.

From major infrastructure developments to specialist civil engineering works, Shannon Valley Group delivers excellence across every project it undertakes. Working with leading contractors, developers, and public sector

The SANY SY235LC.

clients throughout Ireland, the company has successfully completed projects ranging from large-scale earthworks and road construction to complex ground stabilisation and environmental remediation schemes.

Shannon Valley Group’s multidisciplinary approach ensures seamless integration across all divisions, providing clients with comprehensive solutions backed by decades of combined experience and the technical expertise to turn ambitious visions into reality. As with all of Shannon Valley Group’s endeavours, quality remains at the forefront, making the company’s partnership with Sleator Plant a natural fit.

Amanda McNally at the SANY factory in Shanghai.

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“Shannon Valley Group has operated SANY machines since 2013/14, so the company already understands their reliability and performance. The team was particularly impressed by the quality and value offered by the new SY235LC, together with the aftermarket support available from Sleator Plant.

“Our approach is straightforward: we do as we say we will do, provide machines to the agreed specification and stand behind the products we sell. Trust is fundamental to every customer relationship, and that trust is built through dependable service and consistent support long after the machine has been delivered.”

With the deal, and in-keeping with Sleator Plant’s long-established ethos, aftersales support remains a core priority. Shannon Valley Group, like all of Sleator Plant’s customers, receives dependable ongoing service, technical expertise and a commitment to keeping equipment performing at its best.

Exceptional operator comfort is provided through the SANY SY235LC.

dealer milestone The Shannon Valley Group team putting the SY235LC to work.

A MACHINE WITH IMPACT When speaking to Amanda it’s clear that choosing SANY from Sleator Plant amounts to more than purchasing equipment; it means choosing cutting-edge technology, dependable performance and a brand you can trust.

“SANY is number three worldwide. They stand over their products and every year they invest six per cent of their annual turnover in to R&D with over €1bn USD invested last year. The machines are first-class, and extremely durable.

Our sales have grown year on year in terms of market share. SANY won’t stop until it’s number one in the world.”

Aligning with its namesake’s continuously evolving reputation, the SANY SY235LC delivers precision and performance across industry projects. It has been designed with premium Cummins Stage V engine technology and Kawasaki hydraulics, ensuring maximum productivity while reducing operating costs.

Emphasised by Amanda, the machine’s heavy-duty undercarriage and reinforced structure provide exceptional stability even under maximum load. Its high digging forces deliver outstanding productivity in demanding applications, while the high-quality steel construction

and robust components reduce wear and lower total cost of ownership.

Amanda also highlights the SANY SY235LC’s exceptional operator comfort; a core consideration for the industry. The machine’s ergonomic air-suspension seat supports the operator and reduces fatigue, while all controls are positioned within easy reach for intuitive operation and a large multi-language display provides clear machine data and settings. The addition of automatic climate control also ensures a comfortable working environment in all conditions, not to mention the integrated USB connectivity and modern cab layout which have been cultivated with the operator in mind.

Safety is similarly a priority focus of the SY235LC in which it has been designed with a comprehensive safety package to ensure secure and efficient operation on every job site. Representative of this, the boom safety valve and overload warning system improve lifting safety, and the rear camera and LED lighting enhance visibility in low-light conditions.

THE PEOPLE POWERING SLEATOR PLANT’S GROWTH Sleator Plant is paving the path for further growth as it continues to build its industry partnerships not just on a foundation of

innovative machinery, but on strong aftersales support delivered by a dedicated team committed to keeping customers working and their machines performing at their best.

Amanda continued: “Lots of people can sell a product, but it’s the back-up service you offer that people remember. For example, I recently had a customer ring me at 5.30pm needing assistance and by 6.30pm/7pm our service team had an engineer on site. We wouldn’t be able to do that without our brilliant team of engineers.

“Elsewhere, we have three amazing sales guys for SANY, Ted Gray and Ben Boylan, who are ones to look out for. It’s fantastic to see how committed they are to the job and learning. We also have the experience of Brian Frizzell who is well respected within the industry. We have a fantastic aftermarket team too – Mark Cobain manages the Parts team, Rasool Khan in Dublin organises the engineers, while Sanjana Pal handles all of the elements once a sale has been completed.

“At Sleator Plant, it is a team effort from every side of the company. Aftermarket provision is now centralised which affords us to offer a consistent and high quality service to our customer base with 100% commitment from every member of our team.”

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news

Eagle Plant Expands Fleet with its First 15-tonne Takeuchi 3-Series machine is a significant milestone in a partnership that spans close to 30 years. As Eagle celebrate 50 years of trading and Takeuchi marks 30 years in the UK, this new TB3150R reflects the strength of our long-standing relationship and Eagle’s continued confidence in the Takeuchi brand”.

Eagle Plant has strengthened its fleet with the addition of its first Takeuchi 3-Series 15-tonne excavator. The new TB3150R arrives as the long-standing Takeuchi customer celebrates its 50th year, adding the latestgeneration machine to its widespread reach across 23 depots nationwide.

The new 3-Series TB3150R with fixed boom and short tail combines to offer a powerful yet very compact machine in this 15-tonne weight class.

Always a Takeuchi supporter, from the very start Eagle have built up one of the UK’s largest Takeuchi hire fleets operating nationally.

The relationship all started back in 1997 and has grown to be a longlasting partnership with currently more than 600 Takeuchi machines across the Eagle depots.

The TB3150R at work.

Nick Barrow, MD at Eagle Plant, said: “Our customers really like them; they are regraded both as powerful and reliable. As a busy hire firm they are without doubt the best machine for our

business. Takeuchi UK are one of Eagle’s longest standing suppliers.

These highly reliable machines have been an essential part of the Eagle fleet. The new TB3150R

is the very latest addition and marks our 1800th Takeuchi.”

The TB3150R features the latest Yanmar Stage V engine with keyless start delivering increased hydraulic horsepower, 14% more than the previous model TB2150R. This crucial upgrade boosts performance in simultaneous operations, particularly those requiring high pressure.

Jason Periam, Head of Sales, Takeuchi UK, added: “The delivery of Eagle Plant’s 1,800th Takeuchi

Just launched at Hillhead, the new TB3150R is already proving popular with sales across the UK.

Irish BBA Certification Secured for Resin Injection Specialist independently by a respected certification body in the construction industry.”

Geobear has achieved verified compliance with the Irish Building Regulation through its British Board of Agrément (BBA) certification.

Recognised as a benchmark for product quality and fitness for purpose, Geobear UK has held BBA certification since 2021.

The milestone follows the BBA’s recent launch of an Irish building regulations compliance add-on for its Agrément certification holders, enabling Geobear to extend its existing certification to cover its Irish operations. Following updates from the Irish government post-Brexit, third-party certificates used in Ireland must confirm coverage for use in the Republic of Ireland, demonstrating compliance with Parts A-M, of which Geobear now fulfils completely.

The updated certification gives Irish specifiers, engineers, architects, building control bodies, and property owners, reliable third-party verification that Geobear’s geopolymer injections comply with Irish Building Regulations, removing a key barrier for professionals seeking to utilise advanced ground engineering solutions.

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“As the first and only geopolymer injection company to achieve this certification, we are proud to be setting a new benchmark for quality, transparency and technical assurance. At a time when regulatory certainty is increasingly important, being the only geopolymer injection company with this certification demonstrates our commitment to quality, transparency and delivering the highest standards for our customers,” Dee continued.

Geobear rail project.

The British Board of Agrément is an independent, regulated body for the UK construction industry that helps to create accountability and mitigate risk. The BBA certification is a mark of compliance based on rigorous national and European standards, validating a construction product’s specialist formulation, capability, and uniqueness.

“This is a significant moment for Geobear in Ireland,” said Richard Dee, Director of Geobear Ireland. “Our customers and their advisors can now have complete confidence that our solutions meet Irish Building Regulations, verified

The certification also covers Geobear’s advanced geopolymer injection technology, which strengthens weak soils, fills voids, and lifts sunken structures, without the need for excavation.

The certification process includes independent laboratory testing of materials, assessment of structural characteristics and durability, evaluation of design and installation practices, and ongoing surveillance of production.

Certification holders also undergo a formal three-year review, to ensure continued compliance with the BBA.

www.plantandcivilengineer.com

ANYONE CAN LISTEN BUT NOT EVERYONE CAN UNDERSTAND

Across Ireland, our experts are well-versed in businesses like yours, so they won’t just listen to your plans, they’ll understand them. closecommercialfinance.ie

technical training

MERLO UK STRENGTHENS CUSTOMER AND DEALER SUPPORT THROUGH ENHANCED TECHNICAL TRAINING PROGRAMME With hands-on courses delivered at its Ringwood training centre and through its dealer network, Merlo UK is equipping engineers with the expertise needed to deliver the highest standards of technical support to customers.

Merlo UK’s dedicated training programme has supported more than 220 engineers and dealer personnel across the UK and Ireland this year, helping to develop technical expertise, promote safe working practices and prepare the dealer network for future technologies.

As machinery technology continues to evolve, ensuring engineers have deep expertise to support customers with confidence remains a key priority for Merlo UK. Its technical training programme forms part of the company’s wider dealer support and aftersales offering, building on the expertise delivered from its Ringwood headquarters.

Delivered at the company’s purpose-built training centre, with courses held at dealer locations across the UK and Ireland, the programme currently offers 25 technical training courses, with this number set to grow as new products are introduced and technology continues to advance. Each course is designed to equip engineers with the skills needed to keep machines working efficiently, from first diagnosis through to maintenance and repair. For customers, that means the peace of mind that wherever their machines are operating, they’re backed by highly skilled Merlo engineers trained to deliver fast, effective support that keeps their business moving.

PRACTICAL TRAINING, BUILT ON REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE Leading the programme is Training Manager Sam Bowles, who is responsible for developing and delivering training courses across Merlo UK’s dealer network.

Drawing on more than a decade of experience in agricultural and construction equipment engineering, Bowles works closely with dealers to ensure their teams remain up to date with the latest products and technologies, while shaping practical training around the challenges engineers face in the field.

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Sam Bowles (centre) with individuals taking part in the training programme.

The Ringwood training centre, which opened in 2021, was purpose-built for practical training. With access to dedicated machines, specialist training rigs and dismantled machine components, engineers can build familiarity with Merlo systems in a realistic learning environment, away from the pressure of a live customer breakdown.

The programme offers foundation training for those new to Merlo products, as well as more advanced modules on the systems engineers work with every day, including hydraulics, driveline, electrics and diagnostics. Courses can also be tailored to individual requirements, allowing engineers to focus on the areas most relevant to their role and level of experience.

Designed to support engineers at every stage of their career, the programme provides a clear pathway for progression.

Whether completely new to Merlo machines, looking to broaden existing expertise or a technically advanced engineer with decades of experience, the courses are designed to challenge and develop engineers’ technical expertise.

For Shaun Groom, General Manager at Merlo UK, the breadth of training is central to the programme’s success.

“Every engineer is at a different stage of their career, so it’s important our training reflects that,” says Groom. “Sam has built a programme that grows with our engineers.

As new products and technologies are introduced, the training continues to evolve, giving engineers new opportunities to develop throughout their careers.”

BUILDING CONFIDENCE THROUGH SPECIALIST TRAINING Among the growing portfolio of specialist courses available is Merlo UK’s ROTO telehandler training programme, which gives engineers an in-depth understanding of one of Merlo’s most advanced product ranges. Over the course of a week, attendees move from machine operation into system understanding, diagnostics and fault finding, building the confidence to support ROTO machines when customers need them most.

Through BAGMA-accredited courses, engineers can also gain the qualifications

technical training Sam Bowles and dealer participants.

needed to undertake Thorough Examinations, helping dealer teams support machine safety through critical inspections and compliance checks.

Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with Merlo UK’s training courses achieving an average satisfaction score of 4.97 out of 5 across approximately 400 participant responses.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing engineers return to training and watching their confidence grow,” says Bowles.

“We’re constantly developing and updating our training programmes to ensure our dealers are ready to support both current and future products,” confirms Bowles.

“The industry is evolving quickly, and it’s important that engineers have the knowledge and confidence needed to support customers as new technologies emerge.”

The programme reflects Merlo UK’s continued investment in its people and

dealer network, at a time when skilled engineers are in high demand.

“Behind every productive machine is a skilled engineer,” says Shaun Groom, “The success of the programme is a testament to the commitment of Sam and the wider team, as well as the enthusiasm of the engineers taking part. Seeing attendees return, develop their skills and grow in confidence is incredibly rewarding, and we’re proud to support that development across our dealer network.”

“Having worked as an engineer myself, I understand the realities of diagnosing and repairing machines in the field, and the difference practical, handson training makes in helping engineers build both confidence and capability.”

KEEPING PACE WITH INNOVATION In his role, Bowles has spent considerable time at Merlo Group’s headquarters in San Defendente di Cervasca, near Cuneo, Italy, receiving extensive training on the company’s machines and technologies.

Working closely with Merlo’s technical and training teams in Italy, he helps bring the latest product knowledge back to dealers across the UK and Ireland.

As new Merlo products come into the UK and Ireland market, Bowles and the wider Merlo UK team are focused on keeping dealer teams ready for the machines their customers depend on. That includes preparing engineers for electric models and more advanced machine technologies.

The Merlo training room.

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CBAM

AN NI SUPPLIER’S GUIDE TO CBAM

BY MPANI For Northern Ireland, there is an important distinction between the EU CBAM and the new UK CBAM. At present, EU CBAM does not apply directly to Northern Irelandbased importers simply because Northern Ireland remains within parts of the EU goods regime.

The NI DAERA Minister confirmed in January 2026 that the EU CBAM Regulation has not been added to the Windsor Framework, so it does not impose EU-CBAM obligations on NI importers, including goods coming from GB. However, the UK CBAM will apply across the whole UK, including Northern Ireland, from 1 January 2027. This is the regime NI mineralproducts businesses now need to prepare for.

The current CBAM regulation directly covers imports of: cement, iron and steel, aluminium, fertilisers, electricity, and hydrogen. So, the key point is whether your concrete product is classified as cement or steel, or as a downstream manufactured product. The precise test is the commodity code, rather than simply describing something as a construction product.

5. Keep records from 1 January 2027. This is important even though HMRC says the CBAM registration service will not open until 1 January 2028. If a company becomes liable before the service opens, it must retain the records necessary to register subsequently. Even businesses below the registration threshold will need records demonstrating why they aren’t liable.

6. Record carbon prices already paid. Where the embedded emissions have already faced a qualifying carbon price overseas, the importer may be able to obtain Carbon Price Relief, reducing the UK CBAM liability. Evidence and independent verification will be required.

WHAT WILL AN NI COMPANY ACTUALLY HAVE TO DO?

A PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT NI ISSUE

For a minerals and construction product supplier, MPANI would suggest companies start with six practical steps:

There is a potentially awkward interaction between the EU CBAM, UK CBAM and Windsor Framework. The EU’s definitive CBAM started on 1 January 2026. Up to now if NI suppliers had been exporting to EU customers you have not normally had a direct legal obligation under EU CBAM. Your EU customer (the importer) must report emissions and possibly pay CBAM certificates, so they will require specific data from you to comply.

1. Identify all imported products. Companies should map what they bring into Northern Ireland – from GB, the EU and elsewhere – and check the commodity codes against HMRC’s CBAM list. Cement and cementitious imports are an obvious priority for our sector.

2. Establish who is legally the importer. This is important. Using a customs agent, haulier or freight forwarder doesn’t necessarily transfer CBAM responsibility to them. HMRC says that where customs duty is payable, the importer is generally the organisation named on the import declaration.

3. Monitor the £50,000 threshold. The UK regime has a £50,000 value registration threshold for CBAM goods.

From 1 January 2027, businesses will need to monitor whether they expect to import £50,000 or more of CBAM goods in the next 30 days and, on the first day of each month, whether imports have reached £50,000 over the relevant previous 12-month period.

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4. Obtain emissions information from suppliers. This is likely to be one of the biggest practical challenges. Businesses will ultimately need information concerning the embodied emissions associated with imported CBAM goods. HMRC says further detailed guidance on monitoring, reporting and verification of embodied emissions is still to be published.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

In practice, EU customers will expect suppliers to provide structured carbonemissions data for the goods they import. If you cannot provide it, they may have to use EU default emissions values, which usually increases their carbon cost and makes your product less competitive. EU importers generally need authorised CBAM declarant status where relevant imports exceed the applicable 50-tonne mass threshold. But that EU CBAM does not currently extend to NI importers through the Windsor Framework. Instead, NI businesses will come within UK CBAM from January 2027.

That potentially creates different carbonborder arrangements on either side of the Irish border. The UK and EU are negotiating linkage of the UK ETS and EU ETS; the NI

Executive has specifically highlighted that successful linkage could create the conditions for mutual CBAM exemptions, which would be particularly significant for NI. MPANI and other business organisations in NI have stressed the need for full alignment between the UK and EU CBAM regimes.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR MPANI MEMBERS We would divide members into three groups: • Quarries producing aggregates only: probably little direct CBAM liability initially, because primary aggregates aren’t currently within the five UK CBAM sectors.

• Concrete/precast companies: potentially significant exposure because of cement and other imported inputs, although whether the company itself is liable depends on what it imports, the commodity code and who is legally the importer.

• Cement importers/suppliers: potentially the most exposed MPANI members. They should already be setting up systems to capture supplier, country of origin, quantity/value, commodity code, embodied emissions and carbon-price information.

There is also an indirect cost issue. Even companies that never import a CBAM product themselves could see higher prices for cement, steel or aluminium because their UK suppliers/importers incur CBAM costs.

IN SUMMARY 1. Ready-mix concrete • HS code: 3824 or 3824/6810 related categories depending on form • CBAM status: X Not currently in scope Even though it contains cement, ready-mix concrete itself is not listed in the CBAM annex.

2. Precast concrete products Examples: precast panels, concrete pipes, concrete blocks, concrete sleepers, concrete beams Typical HS codes: 6810.xx • CBAM status: X Generally not in scope (for now) • However, the cement used inside them is an in-scope material Because CBAM currently applies mainly to basic materials, the embedded cement emissions are not yet captured when imported as a finished concrete product.

CBAM 3. Reinforced concrete products (steel and cement) Example products: • Reinforced concrete beams • Reinforced precast panels • Reinforced pipes or culverts • CBAM status: X Usually not currently in scope • But steel reinforcement bars themselves are in scope under iron and steel.

If rebar alone is imported, CBAM applies.

If rebar is already embedded in concrete, the finished product generally falls outside CBAM at present.

4. Important: Expansion likely after 2026 The EU has already signalled that CBAM will expand to downstream products, likely including: • Fabricated steel products • Cement-containing construction materials • Possibly precast concrete products This expansion is being discussed as part of the post-transitional phase review (before 2026).

5. Key implication for Northern Ireland manufacturers For businesses in Northern Ireland selling to the EU; • Aggregates, asphalt, ready-mix concrete, and most precast products are not currently CBAM goods.

• Cement and steel inputs are CBAM goods.

• EU customers may still ask for carbon data voluntarily because they need to account for embedded emissions in construction products under other EU rules (e.g. EU ETS, CPR revision, and product carbon declarations).

Simple rule of thumb!

Product Cement (clinker, cement powder) Steel reinforcement Ready-mix concrete Precast concrete products Reinforced concrete products

CBAM status In scope In scope Not currently Not currently Not currently

1. Product identification and shipment data Your EU customer must report details about the imported goods, so they will ask you for: • Product description and classification (CN code) • Quantity / mass of product supplied • Country of origin • Production facility or installation where the goods were produced This information links each shipment to the emissions data reported in CBAM declarations.

2. Embedded greenhouse gas emissions This is the most important requirement!

You will need to provide: • Direct emissions (Scope 1) from the production process e.g. fuel combustion, kiln processes, calcination, etc.

• Indirect emissions (Scope 2) from electricity used in production • Total embedded emissions per tonne of product These emissions must normally be calculated using the EU Monitoring and Reporting Regulation (MRR) methodology or a comparable system.

The data must usually be allocated to each product and production installation (not just company averages).

3. Production method information EU importers must describe how the product was made, so they may request:

For MPANI members or NI producers, the most practical step is to prepare carbon data for cement content in concrete products, because EU customers increasingly request it even though CBAM does not yet require it.

• Production process route (e.g. kiln type, electric arc furnace, etc.)

Here is the typical information EU importers need from a non-EU manufacturer such as a NI producer.

• Any process emissions (e.g. chemical reactions)

• Fuel types used • Electricity source • Raw materials used

This helps determine emissions intensity.

4. Carbon price already paid (if applicable) If carbon costs have already been paid in the country of production, the importer can deduct that cost from the CBAM charge.

So they may ask for: • Evidence of carbon tax or emissions trading payments • Carbon price per tonne of CO2 already paid • Supporting documentation 5. Verification of emissions data (important from 2026) From 2026 onward, emissions data used in CBAM declarations must be verified by an accredited third party.

So your EU customer may require: independent verification statement; audit of emissions calculation; documentation supporting the methodology.

6. Installation identification CBAM reporting is done per production installation, not just company level.

You may need to provide: • Name and address of the production facility • Installation identifier (if registered in the CBAM registry) • Production capacity or activity data For many Northern Ireland sectors such as cement, lime or steel-related products, EU customers will increasingly require: product carbon footprint per tonne; verified emissions data; evidence of energy inputs and fuel use.

Without this data, EU importers may have to use high EU default emission values, which increases CBAM costs and may discourage them from buying your product.

Hopefully this guide is of use to members but if you still require any further information on more complex matters please don’t hesitate to contact me at gbest@mpani.org and the matter can be taken up with either the UK or EU teams dealing with the implementation of CBAM.

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CBAM

CBAM: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW AND HOW IT CAN GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A COMPETITIVE EDGE

BY EUGENE HEANEY, HEAD OF GREEN ECONOMY, INVEST NORTHERN IRELAND OPPORTUNITIES FOR NORTHERN IRELAND MANUFACTURERS

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is a new environmental policy introduced by the European Union (EU). It aims to put a fair price on the carbon emitted during the production of carbon-intensive goods that are entering the EU.

Northern Ireland’s strength in engineering, advanced manufacturing and construction means that businesses in these sectors have an opportunity to become a preferred supplier to EU markets.

EU CBAM applies a carbon cost to imported goods, so that products made in countries, primarily outside the EU, with lower carbon pricing do not gain an unfair advantage over cleaner production. It is initially covering carbon-intensive sectors, such as cement, iron and steel, aluminium, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen.

Many of our local businesses already possess characteristics that align with the low-carbon transition, including efficient operations, innovative technologies and growing adoption of renewable energy.

Its main purpose is to reduce “carbon leakage”, where production shifts from EU-based manufacturers to jurisdictions with weaker climate rules, and to accelerate low carbon production by making carbon costs more consistent across borders.

While CBAM is often viewed as a compliance issue, it also highlights that carbon performance is an important factor in business competitiveness.

For Northern Ireland manufacturers, this presents an opportunity.

COMMUNICATING CARBON PERFORMANCE In terms of trade relationships, CBAM legislation is already having an impact. For manufacturers, the ability to understand, measure and communicate carbon performance can be a competitive advantage, especially in an evolving regulatory landscape.

Even companies with products not directly covered by CBAM are finding that customers want greater visibility of emissions across their supply chains.

Large manufacturers across Europe want to know the carbon footprint data from their suppliers for their own reporting obligations and decarbonisation targets.

Companies that can provide credible information on the carbon intensity of their products are likely to be better positioned when competing for contracts, participating in tenders and strengthening customer relationships.

Developing product-level emissions data and robust carbon reporting systems enables businesses to demonstrate the impact of these investments, which allows them to respond to customer requests and identify further opportunities for efficiency and cost savings.

Think of carbon transparency as a business asset. Businesses that can provide verified emissions data will be better positioned to

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Eugene Heaney.

showcase their competitive strengths and differentiate themselves in the marketplace.

PREPARING FOR UK CBAM While much attention has focused on the EU CBAM, businesses should also be aware of developments closer to home.

The UK Government’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (UK CBAM) is due to come into effect on 1 January 2027. It will apply to embodied emissions in specified carbon-intensive goods imported into the UK, covering products from the aluminium, cement, fertiliser, hydrogen, iron and steel sectors.

Businesses importing affected goods will need to maintain relevant records and, depending on the scale of imports, may also be required to register under the scheme.

Here are three actions manufacturers can take now: 1. Understand your exposure – review whether your products, imports, customers or suppliers are affected by EU CBAM or the upcoming UK CBAM. 2. Strengthen your carbon data – start collecting product-level emissions information and engage suppliers to improve data quality and transparency.

3. Use carbon data as a competitive advantage – demonstrate the value of investments in efficiency, innovation and decarbonisation when engaging with customers and bidding for new business.

Businesses that understand and explain their carbon performance clearly can use it to build stronger customer relationships, stand out from competitors and exploit new export opportunities. It can also help them respond to changes in supply chains, prepare for future low-carbon buying requirements and show the value of the sustainability investments they have already made.

This also creates opportunities beyond manufacturing. Demand is likely to grow for carbon measurement, reporting and verification support, particularly from businesses with expertise in digital technology, data, engineering and professional services. For exporters, clear carbon information could help them stand out with EU and UK customers, while Northern Ireland’s skills base and manufacturing reputation may also support future investment in lower-carbon production.

SUPPORT AVAILABLE Invest Northern Ireland recognises that managing new legislation can be challenging, therefore we have developed free to use practical guidance and toolkit resources, which are available through nibusinessinfo.co.uk, including guidance on EU CBAM requirements and support to help businesses understand carbon reporting and emissions measurement. Businesses can also access information from the UK Government on the introduction of UK CBAM and future reporting requirements.

CBAM reflects a broader shift towards low-carbon competitiveness, where the ability to measure, manage and communicate emissions performance is becoming increasingly important.

Northern Ireland manufacturers have a strong track record of innovation, quality and resilience. Those same strengths can help our businesses secure a competitive edge as markets place greater emphasis on carbon performance.

trailers

BUILT FOR VERSATILITY: THE McCAULEY DRAWBAR FLAT Versatility matters more than ever for modern operators. Trailers need to handle demanding loads, adapt to different jobs and deliver the reliability that keeps a business moving. Every operator has different requirements and different jobs to get done; McCauley Trailers builds the Drawbar Flat range around three core principles: strength, practicality, and flexibility.

Designed for agriculture, construction, plant hire, and haulage, the Drawbar Flat transports everything from heavy machinery and plant equipment to general materials.

Its heavy-duty construction is built to handle the demands of everyday use, while a wide list of customisation options lets operators tailor the spec to their exact workload.

KEY CUSTOMISATION OPTIONS •

•

Axles and suspension: Spec’d to match specific load capacities and terrain requirements.

Loading and access: Custom ramp configurations to suit different types of machinery.

The McCauley Drawbar Flat delivers a tough, straightforward trailer.

•

Load restraint and storage: Integrated tie-down points, toolboxes, and storage solutions for secure transit.

•

Decking and finish: Choice of durable flooring materials, lighting and electrical options, and protective finishes.

Instead of offering a standard specification, McCauley works directly with our customers to design a build that fits their daily demands.

By pairing traditional engineering with practical design, the Drawbar Flat delivers a tough, straightforward trailer that works as hard as the team towing it.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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KX TREE SHEARS: Precision Power for any job from Roadside Felling to Site Clearing:

KX HAS YOU COVERED

www.mlarge.com

02890 342838

74 Church Road, Newtownabbey, Co. Antrim BT36 7LN

sales@mlarge.com

lifting equipment

FROM SHOP FLOOR TO SCREEN: KING MECHANICAL SERVICES IS RAISING THE STANDARD IN LIFTING EXPERTISE Local knowledge, practical experience and a personal approach are helping King Mechanical Services (KMS) stand out in a market that continues to surge. For the team behind the company, the sale has never been the full story; it’s about understanding customers, harnessing relationships and equipping them with the right solutions for their needs.

That thinking has shaped the development of KMS’s sales division which is available at its physical store in Tuam, Co. Galway, as well as online at LiftingEquipment.ie.

With almost three decades of experience in equipment inspection, testing, certification and repair, KMS has developed an in-depth understanding of the equipment utilised every day across different industries.

Now that experience is being brought directly and conveniently to customers throughout Ireland and further afield.

A BUSINESS BUILT ON KNOWING THE CUSTOMER At the heart of KMS’s store is a simple idea: good equipment starts with good advice. The business serves a wide range of customers, from young contractors taking their first steps into the industry to established local firms and major construction companies operating nationally or internationally.

Despite that variety, the team’s approach remains the same. Whether a customer is purchasing a single item or placing a substantial order, they receive the same attention and high level of service. That is particularly important to a family business where relationships have always been part of the way things are done. Regular customers become familiar faces. Names are remembered. Conversations happen across the counter. And quite often, a customer will call in for a chat as well as a purchase.

shipped out promptly by the team. But the company has deliberately kept the physical shop also at the centre of its offering.

and speak directly with the experts behind the business. For lifting equipment, that physical experience can be important.

The store at the N17 Business Park on the Galway Road in Tuam grants customers the chance to see the products for themselves. They can pick them up, compare different options, ask questions

It’s the best of both worlds. For customers who are still considering their preferred solution, the shop offers more than a place to browse; it provides a space to pause, ponder and pick the right product. And for those who know exactly what they need, the process can be considerably quicker.

Having visited the shop, found a product that works and put it to the test, customers can simply return to the website when they need to reorder, making repeat purchases straightforward and stress-free. There is also plenty of flexibility in between, with customers able to phone the shop directly to communicate their requirements. Orders can then be packed and posted to customers.

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS Online shopping has, for many businesses, altered the process in which they purchase equipment. Customers often require speed, simplicity and the ability to order when it suits them. LiftingEquipment.ie has embraced that, with its Shopify-powered website making it straightforward to browse the range and place a secure order online which will be

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The Tuam-based shop.

Whether it starts with a conversation across the counter or a click on the website, the aim is the same: making it easy for customers to get the right equipment, wherever they are.

lifting equipment QUALITY THAT CAN BE COUNTED ON One of the biggest advantages LiftingEquipment.ie has is the experience behind the products. KMS has been working with lifting equipment for almost 30 years and now inspects more than 20,000 items every year nationwide.

That means the team knows exactly what's on the shelf, how it works and its technical information.

For KMS and LiftingEquipment.ie, quality isn’t something that can be compromised.

The company supplies recognised and approved brands, with a focus on providing reliable equipment at competitive prices.

That balance between quality and value is important to the customers the business serves. The team has to be confident in what it sells because its customers depend on it.

With the right stock, real-world knowledge

GROWING WITHOUT LOSING THE PERSONAL TOUCH

they need it, with advice they can trust.

Looking ahead, KMS and LiftingEquipment. ie are set to continue expanding their range and reach, while keeping the service simple, personal and practical.

and KMS’s technical expertise behind it, customers can get what they need, when Stock on the shelves and screen.

Knowledge on hand. Service with a

Visit our shop in Tuam, Co. Galway, H54 Y002

Lifting Chains, Shackles, Ratchet Straps Lifting Chains, Shackles, Ratchet Straps and more all available online and more all available online with Fast Delivery Nationwide. with Fast Delivery Nationwide.

Visit Visit our ourshop shopinin Tuam, Co. Co. Galway, Galway,H54 H54Y002 Y002 Tel: 093 093 26300 26300 www.liftingequipment.ie Tel: www.liftingequipment.ie

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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02

ENT

BUY LIFTING EQUIPMENT ONLINE TODAY!

Lifting Chains, Shackles, Ratchet Straps and more all available online with Fast Delivery Nationwide.

touch. That is what sets KMS BUY personal LIFTING EQUIPMENT and LiftingEquipment.ie apart.

BUY LIFTING ONLINE EQUIPMENT TODAY! ONLINE TODAY!

BUY LIFTING EQUIPMENT ONLINE TODAY!

All products still come with GA1 certification accessible on the KMS Cert Portal, giving customers an additional level of

reassurance and helping connect the sales side of the business with the wider inspection and certification service.

t Straps ne ide.

Putting this priority into action, both the physical and online stores boast an extensive stock of essential lifting and safety equipment.

The range includes lifting chains, chain components, tie-down chains and load binders, ratchet straps, lifting slings, shackles, manual hoisting equipment, working-atheight equipment, lifting eyes and points, precast lifting accessories and more.

KMS’s shop features an extensive range of stock for the industry.

essential materials sustainable solutions

FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI

REFRAMING THE CONVERSATION ON INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT IN NORTHERN IRELAND Gordon Best, MPANI

Summer has ended and our MLAs and the Executive will be back, probably all sporting a tan given the excellent weather we have enjoyed.

Given the fact they went into recess at the start of July without a budget, I do believe that the community and business sectors’ expectation of delivery is higher than it’s ever been.

LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT YEAR’S ASSEMBLY ELECTION As we look forward to next year’s Assembly Election, MPANI has already begun drafting and agreeing our “Priorities for NI Government 2027 – 2032”.

The priorities paper calls on the Assembly and Executive to: • Publish a Northern Ireland Minerals Strategy (2027 – 2042) • Speed up the reform of the planning system • Deliver long-term infrastructure investment via an agreed investment strategy and newly-established infrastructure commission • Ensure the future security of aggregate supply • Modernise environmental regulation • Support for industry decarbonisation • Reduce industrial energy costs • Invest in skills • Improve transport infrastructure • Promote the circular economy We plan to circulate the final priorities paper to the local political parties in the autumn, meet with their policy people, and do our best to get a number of these priorities in their election manifestoes for the Assembly Election in May 2027.

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A new water treatment facility in Northern Ireland visited by Gordon as part of judging for the Northern Ireland Construction Awards.

MPANI has also produced a position paper on the contentious issue of financial guarantees for quarry restoration. As readers will know, MPANI has been vehemently opposed to Council adopting this policy as we believe it introduces economic barriers to legitimate and responsible operators who have a proud history of implementing excellent restoration on their sites.

A modern financial guarantee system should safeguard the environment while supporting continued investment in Northern Ireland’s mineral products industry. A risk-based approach, combined with independently assessed restoration liabilities and regular review, provides effective protection for the public interest without imposing unnecessary costs on responsible operators. We believe our framework reflects recognised international best practice and provides a balanced, transparent and proportionate model for the regulation of quarry restoration.

AN ENCOURAGING IMPROVEMENT In the last edition of Plant & Civil Engineer I made the comment that the Northern Ireland economy was resilient but losing momentum. A couple of months on and the latest Nat West Growth Tracker published in July reports a considerably better picture for Northern Ireland than the June figures. The headline Business Activity Index for Northern Ireland rose to 51.4, putting Northern Ireland 3rd out of the 12 UK nations and regions. The turnaround in Northern Ireland is particularly striking. In June, Northern Ireland was bottom of the UK table at 43.9, representing the sharpest contraction of all 12 regions. There are some important qualifications.

Northern Ireland continued to experience the strongest increase in business operating costs in the UK. Employment was broadly unchanged, rather than growing, and although

business confidence improved to a four-month high, Northern Ireland businesses remained the least optimistic of the 12 regions about activity over the next year.

For the Northern Ireland construction/mineral products sector, this is potentially quite significant: the sharp rebound in overall activity is encouraging, but the combination of high input costs and relatively weak forward confidence suggests businesses aren’t yet convinced that July’s improvement represents a sustained recovery.

A STRONGER COLLECTIVE MESSAGE In recent weeks, as in previous years, I’ve had the privilege of acting as a judge in the CEF, now the Northern Ireland Construction Awards. As ever, I’ve been incredibly impressed by the standard of entry and more so the excellence exhibited in all of the projects – I have to say, not just in quality of construction, but the collaboration through

essential materials sustainable solutions

early contractor involvement (ECI) and the level of stakeholder engagement with neighbours, businesses and all those affected by the project. However, more so than ever, I’ve came away with the same feeling of frustration and asking the question: “How can we communicate better on the social and economic value of infrastructure investment in Northern Ireland?”.

I firmly believe, given my experience as a construction industry awards judge, that there is considerable scope for the Northern Ireland publicsector construction clients to do this better. In my view, the problem is less that the benefits are unknown and more that they are currently communicated project by project, department by department, and mainly in engineering or spending terms, rather than as one compelling story about what infrastructure investment delivers for Northern Ireland. For water, wastewater and roads in particular, the collective message could be much stronger.

We need a fundamental change in narrative! Public bodies tend to communicate: • “£12 million invested in a wastewater treatment works”

Gordon also visited the new development at Belfast International Airport as part of the judging process.

capacity + wastewater capacity + roads + electricity + construction materials + contractors. Consequently, infrastructure investment should be presented as an “economic enabling programme”, rather than simply expenditure by DfI, NI Water or councils.

I think there is a strong case for DfI, NI Water, councils and the construction sector developing an annual “Infrastructure Social Value & Economic Impact Report.” Instead of announcing £X million of capital expenditure, it could say something like:

• “£8 million road improvement scheme completed”

£500m invested, resulting in →

• “£5 million sewer upgrade.”

• X jobs supported

Those are inputs. The public, politicians and Treasury are more likely to respond to outcomes. The message should instead be closer to: “This £12 million investment enables 1,500 new homes, supports development of 30 hectares of employment land, protects a river from pollution, supports 120 construction jobs and improves the resilience of a community for the next 40 years.” That is a very different proposition.

• £X local supply-chain expenditure

The particularly powerful point for Northern Ireland is the “interdependence”. A housing development does not happen simply because planning permission exists. It needs water

• X homes enabled

• X apprenticeships/ training places • X hectares of development land unlocked • X businesses benefiting from improved infrastructure • X tonnes of local aggregates/ concrete/asphalt utilised • X km of roads improved • X properties with reduced flood risk • X tonnes of carbon saved/avoided • £X of future maintenance/ reconstruction costs avoided

That begins to demonstrate the multiplier effect of infrastructure investment. There is another important argument that I think is currently underused in Northern Ireland: “The cost of not investing.” Alongside every major infrastructure programme, government should quantify what happens without investment. For example: No wastewater capacity → housing cannot proceed → developers delay investment → construction employment is lost → rates/tax revenues are delayed → housing pressures increase.

Similarly, “Insufficient road maintenance” leads to more rapid deterioration → eventual reconstruction costs considerably more than preventative maintenance → businesses experience poorer connectivity → vehicle damage and disruption increase.

VOICING THE VALUE Structuring messages in this way will be particularly effective when making the case to the Northern Ireland Executive, Assembly and UK Treasury for multi-year infrastructure funding.

For our own mineral products/ construction sector, I think there is also an opportunity to push government toward a simple principle: “Stop measuring infrastructure primarily by what it costs and start measuring it by what it enables”.

It’s my view that Northern Ireland needs to change the way it communicates the value of investment in its essential infrastructure.

Investment in roads, water and wastewater infrastructure is too often presented primarily in terms of capital expenditure, kilometres of road resurfaced, metres of sewer replaced or treatment capacity delivered.

While these measures are important, they do not adequately demonstrate to the general public, the decision-makers who control the purse strings, the wider economic, environmental and social return generated by infrastructure investment.

I repeat, “Infrastructure investment should not simply be measured by what it costs. It should be measured by what it enables”. I would suggest that Northern Ireland’s public-sector infrastructure clients should adopt a common framework for measuring and publicly reporting the collective economic and social value generated by infrastructure investment. I look forward to further debate on this important matter!

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 07876 136 929. It would be great to have you on-board.

Best wishes and stay safe!

www.mpani.org

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from the desk of

Karen McShane Past President

All views expressed are personal views of Karen McShane and not necessarily those of any organisation in which she is involved

ON THE ROAD TO SUSTAINABLE PUBLIC TRANSPORT A VISIT TO THE FALLS TRANSLINK DEPOT This month as I visited the Falls Translink Depot I watched as an electric bus moved past with a smooth, almost silent motion, gliding away from the gate with little more than the soft hum of its electric motor. Unlike the older diesel buses, there is no engine idling noise, vibration, or exhaust emissions, creating a quieter and more comfortable experience for passengers and pedestrians.

The main changes from a diesel bus are the replacement of the diesel engine, fuel tank, and exhaust system with an electric motor, battery packs, and charging equipment.

But just as the buses have changed there

has been significant changes within Translink properties as the requirement to refuel these electric buses has had a considerable change to the infrastructure.

Myself, Wendy Blundell (ICE), Ronan Boyle (EI) and Gordon Best (MPANI) had been invited to visit the Falls depot to see the changes that had taken place as a result of Translink’s multimillion-pound Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Infrastructure Programme delivered by WorkSpace. This is also another silent story that may have passed some of us by as Richard Cheevers,

Part of the intricate cabling installed.

Managing Director of Workspace, outlined how this was “a new specialist division of main construction and civil engineering contractor McLaughlin & Harvey working in partnership with Translink (NI), representing a landmark investment in sustainable public transport across Northern Ireland.”

Part of the live site at Falls Rd Depot.

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from the desk of

Translink using the new facility.

The WorkSpace Project Manager, Stephen Rice, outlined how the project boosted sustainable public transport provision and resulted in a scheme that spanned across five major transport depots, culminating in the installation of new electric bus charging systems powering Northern Ireland’s journey to net zero.

THE COMPLEXITY BEHIND-THE-SCENES Such an implementation may sound like minor works but Stephen outlined how the construction had to take place within the live operational environment of the busy Translink depots and had to be done in co-ordination within the local community to avoid impact on nearby residential streets. In addition to ensuring Translink users weren’t disrupted, the scheme was designed and delivered to futureproof Northern Ireland’s sustainable transport infrastructure network for future generations.

Looking around the edge of the site all that is visible today are the charging points, a new fibre reinforced concrete trench showing the route of the power cable and some new brick buildings housing some of the HV/LV switch rooms and transformers within buildings constructed using precast, modular and traditional methods. These were craned on and assembled on-site to reduce working space and time for construction.

the cabling through the adjacent park rather than having to open the existing residential cul-de-sac which would have caused major disruption to residents.

Stephen outlined that daily co-ordination and proactive communication enabled the management of the complex technical dependencies, including grid connections and HV installations to take place without delay.

delivered placements for electrical apprentices ensuring that learning continued to take place.

Workspace carried out the civil engineering works, including reinforced concrete foundations, trenching/ducting, drainage upgrades, kerbing, surfacing, bay marking, and barriers/bollards for bus safety. This allowed for the deployment of high-capacity electrical systems, including transformers (1000kVA2000kVA) and LV switchboards (up to 3200A).

As a result of proactive communication, efficient workflows, effective stakeholder collaboration, and a commitment to exceptional safety standards, Workspace delivered the scheme on-time and on budget demonstrating how complex, multi-disciplinary transport projects can be delivered safely, sustainably, and without operational disruption. We all get to benefit from this seamless construction project and can avail of sustainable transport moving forward.

BUILDING FOR TOMORROW Projects like this do not just provide the on-site infrastructure, and this one delivered social value across the local communities.

Stephen outlined the educational programmes with local schools, the donations for a cycle shelter at a local primary school, support for community events and youth centres and volunteering and literacy initiatives that the team carried out. The scheme had also

Testament to the project’s success, in March 2026, McLaughlin & Harvey was awarded a place on Translink’s Permanent Way Major Projects Framework to support the ongoing delivery of Translink’s programme of capital and maintenance works over the next five years.

COMING UP Elsewhere in the world of CIHT, a new programme of events is being prepared for the 2026-to-2027 session. The next events will be 26th November – Unlock your Career Potential with CIHT. I look forward to seeing anyone who wishes to attend.

Stephen outlined the installation of complex cabling networks and containment systems for the EV charging infrastructure. Of note I saw a sign warning pace makers to stay a minimum of 30cm distance away from the high powered charging points due to the induced magnetic fields around the high powered systems, something I had not considered for such a site.

For any contractors who have been planning installation of new power transformers and cabling, they will appreciate the time constraints in getting these into programmes.

Workspace liaised closely with NI Electricity networks through the Early Contractor Involvement stage to ensure efficient project execution and delivery of the necessary power to the sites. One innovative element that evolved at the Falls depot was to take

Karen during her visit to the Falls Translink Depot.

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auction logistics

RITCHIE BROS.

THE MACHINE IS THE EASY PART demand for the machines that do that work. Excavators of 13 tonnes and above, and telescopic handlers in particular, are in consistently high demand.

As infrastructure demand keeps heavy excavators and telehandlers in short supply, the value of a used machine increasingly rests on the operation around the sale – how it is moved, checked and matched to the right buyer. Rob Trewick, Regional Operations Manager for the UK and Ireland at Ritchie Bros., explains why logistics has become the industry’s real differentiator.

When a 125-tonne excavator left Ritchie Bros.’ Maltby yard bound for Egypt earlier this year, almost none of the skill was in the selling. The machine had to be stripped and loaded across six containers – two flat-racks for the main body, four standard units for everything else – with the securing chains alone costing £7,000. The whole operation, start to finish, took three to four days.

“It’s a good example of what happens when the yard team and the mechanics come together,” says Rob Trewick, Regional Operations Manager for the UK and Ireland at Ritchie Bros. “Something that size,

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In a market like that, Trewick argues, the machine itself is rarely the hard part. What decides whether a deal completes cleanly – and whether a seller gets what their equipment is worth – is the operation around it: how quickly and safely a machine moves, how accurately it is inspected, and whether it reaches the buyers who genuinely value it.

A PACE WITH LITTLE ROOM FOR ERROR

Rob Trewick, Regional Operations Manager for the UK and Ireland at Ritchie Bros.

done in three or four days, with no issues – that’s the part customers never really see.”

That unseen work has become more valuable as the used-plant

market has shifted. Years of heavy infrastructure investment – major rail and energy projects, and a sustained programme of road-building – have pushed

The UK operation runs fast. The Maltby site holds around ten auctions a year – roughly one every six weeks – handling some 2,000 lots each time, on top of machines selling continuously through the online marketplace.

“It’s very fast-paced,” Trewick says. “You can’t always do the same volume of checks you might elsewhere, so you have to trust your people to get it right first time.”

auction logistics For all the complexity further down the line, the discipline he returns to first is the simplest: loading and unloading. Transport operators work to tight schedules and have no time to wait around, and the yard is often the first thing a customer sees. “First impressions are everything, for sellers and buyers,” he says.

“If we get people booked in, unloaded and on their way smoothly, it avoids problems before and after the auction.

Get that wrong and it makes everyone’s job harder.”

THE CHECKS BUYERS NEVER SEE Beneath that sits a layer of work most buyers never notice. Before a machine is advertised, the team checks it for outstanding finance, verifies it carries no stolen-equipment flags, confirms it can be legally sold, and checks the model, year and specification are exactly as described.

“I don’t think customers fully realise how much goes on

behind the scenes,” Trewick says.

“They expect a good inspection, and they get one – but there’s a lot of checking underneath that, to make sure everything we advertise is 100% right.”

GETTING THE RIGHT MACHINE TO THE RIGHT BUYER Reaching the right buyer matters most with specialist and highvalue plant. A piece of specialist drilling equipment that cost a contractor hundreds of thousands of pounds can, in the wrong sale, fetch little more than scrap value if the right buyers never see it.

“If the right people aren’t looking at those machines, they can go for relatively nothing,” Trewick says.

Reaching them is partly a question of scale: a database of previous buyers, and a network that stretches across Europe and into North America, means a specialist machine can be put in front of the handful of operators actually looking for it.

That network does more than widen the buyer pool. With sites across Europe and the Middle East that talk to one another, a yard can verify an unfamiliar buyer through a sister site that has dealt with them before.

“Customers aren’t buying from the UK site on its own,” Trewick says. “They’re buying into a web of companies – there’s help right across the continent.”

Even how a machine ships is an operational judgement. For older or high-value plant travelling long distances, containerisation costs more up front but removes the risk of an in-transit failure becoming an expensive problem.

“In containers, nothing can really go wrong,” Trewick says. “It gets lifted out and it’s good to go.”

consistently among the largest groups at Maltby’s sales – second only to UK-based bidders – giving the Irish market a direct line into one of the most active pools of used plant in Britain and Ireland.

For Trewick, the direction of travel is clear: bringing more of the journey under one roof.

“The opportunity is to handle everything from start to finish,” he says – collecting a machine, washing and preparing it, inspecting it and selling it, so a customer’s only real job is to sign the contract. In a market where the machine is the easy part, the operation around it is fast becoming the whole proposition.

IRELAND AT THE CENTRE OF THE MARKET Ireland is central to that picture.

Ritchie Bros. sources the majority of its equipment across the UK and Ireland, and Irish buyers are

Visit rbauction.co.uk for more information about buying and selling with Ritchie Bros.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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view from the cab

BUILT FOR THE BIG LEAGUES:

JCB UNVEILS THE 520X

BY DAN GILKES

JCB is moving up the weight scale, with the launch of the 520X. This heavy excavator’s operating weight sits between 52 and 57-tonnes, depending on specification. The machine tops JCB’s new Heavyline range of X Series models, sharing its DNA with the 370X and the new 420X. The three excavators are aimed at heavy earthmoving, quarrying and demolition customers that demand a robust, hardworking and productive machine.

The 520X is powered by a 298kW (400hp) Cummins X12 diesel engine, compliant with EU Stage V emissions legislation. This

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delivers a healthy 1,969Nm of torque at just 1,400rpm and drives twin variable displacement hydraulic pumps, producing up to 404 litres/min of hydraulic flow each.

Next generation Japanese hydraulic valves, large diameter hydraulic pipework and a hydraulically-driven cooling fan all contribute to efficiency and the potential for a strong tonnes/litre capability. The standard model comes in Earthmoving Pro trim, though there is also a Heavy-Duty Pro Pack option. This adds extra side impact plates, heavy-duty belly plates, bucket ram guards and working light guards and is intended for the most arduous applications.

The 520X has built-in durability and robust design.

view from the cab The 520X at work.

TAILORED TO THE TASK Customers can choose between a fixed, 2,740mm gauge undercarriage, or a mechanically-adjustable arrangement. The adjustable tracks take the overall gauge from 2,390mm on 600mm pads, to 3,490mm.

The slimmer gauge allows the machine to be moved on the road by truck within European regulations, while the wider setting delivers maximum stability and tractability.

A 10.5-tonne fixed counterweight is standard, with the option of a hydraulically removable 9.8-tonne rear end if required. This offsets a standard 6.9m monoboom, that can be paired with a 3.0m or 3.9m dipper arm. There is also a shorter, 6.5m mass excavation boom on offer, that can be matched with a choice of 2.55m or 3.0m arms.

further aided by standard Engine Autostop, Auto Idle and Auto engine shutdown.

Operators that have tried lighter X-Series machines will recognise JCB’s CommandPlus cab, which offers plenty of space, comfort and visibility for the operator. Heated and ventilated seating is available, with electric lumbar support as an option.

A 10” colour monitor, running the JCB UX user interface, allows the operator to customise joystick functions and switch choices to their preferred layout. There are also ‘hot keys’ that provide rapid access to functions that are frequently used. The 520X gets keyless start and high-definition cameras provide all-round vision and the machine benefits from 14 LED working lights.

The sturdy side doors provide good access to service areas, filters and fill points, while the diesel refuelling pump and the AdBlue tank are easily accessed on the steps up to the top of the machine. The 520X has built-in durability and robust design, with additional reinforcing material on the dipper arm end and around track motors. Real-time operating data, for both dealers and fleet managers, is available through JCB LiveLink.

The Heavyline machines sit at the top of the X-Series line-up and they have a clear focus on heavy-duty applications, in bulk earthmoving and quarry operations.

As a range-topping model, the 520X is an impressive addition to this range.

The longer boom and arm combination delivers a maximum digging reach of 11.8m, with a maximum depth of 7.8m.

Dump height is up to 7.5m. The 520X should make a productive partner for a range of articulated and rigid haul trucks, in a variety of applications and materials.

Dipper arm tearout forces of up to 279kN are possible, with bucket tearout of up to 318kN. The machine also features large diameter hydraulic cylinders, along with twin slew motors, for maximum productivity.

OPERATOR FIRST Given the opportunity to try the 520X in JCB’s Kevin Quarry, the machine provided a stable base with plenty of power to fill its bucket in the wet, loose material. Its hydraulics also deliver smooth, delicate control of the boom and arm, making it possible to easily grade and multi-function the servos.

The machine is quiet in operation, reducing fatigue for the operator throughout a day-long shift. There are eco, power and lifting modes to suit different applications and efficiency is

The 520X is a heavyweight built for the toughest jobs

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industry milestone

100 YEARS OF INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP: CELEBRATING THE NEELY BROTHERS’ LEGACY Garnering 44 years of experience in the industry is certainly a formidable feat, and even more so when your brother has reached a similarly momentous milestone. For Graeme Neely and George Neely, their legacy is not solely built on the success they’ve achieved but on the endurance of their combined 100-year impact.

The company Graeme went on to establish upon his return – DSR (NI) – delivers energysaving solutions and reliable equipment services, backed by tailored support.

Graeme’s industry story began when he was inspired to follow his older brother, George’s, footsteps and join TBF Thompson.

It was here where he developed from an apprentice to a Workshop Foreman, before moving on to work as a Field Service Engineer at Liebherr GB and Workshop Manager at Mullans Plant Hire.

“DSR (NI) started out with just me and has now developed to consisting of four men and one lad in the south.

When I returned from Mali, I started the company as an open engineer and repair shop for earthmoving machinery, more so in the recycling side of machinery because of the Liebherr background I had at the time. I then started doing engine rebuilds and all sorts of repairs.

It was a combination of the experience and passion gleaned through these pursuits that acted as a catalyst for Graeme’s formation of his own company.

“I learned a lot from the roles and the people I worked with in these jobs but I wanted to break out and go out on my own in my career. After finishing up at Mullans Plant Hire, I worked in Mali in Africa for two-and-a-half years, before returning home to start my own company.”

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Trusted and distinguished throughout all of Ireland, under Graeme’s steady guidance, it has earned its position as an invaluable partner for energy solutions and equipment services.

Now we class ourselves as a one-stop-shop for service and repairs for anything to do with construction, recycling and more.”

RELIABLE SOLUTIONS FOR ALL-IRELAND With DSR (NI), Graeme and his team assign much importance to securing optimal performance and savings for clients.

With over 35 years of experience, the

company offers innovative products and reliable support to help businesses reduce costs, minimise waste, and optimise efficiency. This has been strengthened through its achievement of exclusive partnerships with top manufacturers like 2G. The team’s range of provisions includes diesel, gas, hydro engine and combined heat power (CHP) generator sales and service; CHP generators servicing and maintenance; and engine install, service, maintenance, and repair. This in addition to diesel engine overhauls and rebuilds; automatic greaser sales and service; service and maintenance contracts; and 24/7 breakdown response.

The greaser side of the business has particularly been picking up pace in recent months too, in which DSR (NI) is now the exclusive dealer and installer for Ireland and Northern Ireland for Ciaponi S.r.l. Centralised Lubrication Systems.

By introducing Ciaponi’s premium, ISO9001 certified systems to its line-up, DSR (NI) is helping customers protect their fleet, including eliminating downtime, reducing wear and saving money.

industry milestone

Graeme and George Neely.

SUPPORTING THE SUCCESS OF OTHERS Reflecting on his journey, Graeme credits the time spent at TBF Thompson with Peter McMullan and John Mackintosh, alongside his brother George, each who have continued their own individual industry success through the years, as the grounding that helped shape his approach throughout his career. John moved on and started his own business, John Mackintosh Plant Repairs, while Peter also started his own company called Transmission Services.

With an incredible 56 years in the industry, Graeme’s brother, George Neely, joined TBF Thompson in his school days and worked as a Workshop Foreman. During his lengthy tenure, he carved out a reputation shaped by a track-record of not only delivering outstanding results, but supporting the success of others.

Graeme said: “George and I have sent out so many people into the industry who have done well. It’s great getting to see a lot of brilliant engineers who began as our juniors – it makes you feel good.”

Even now that George has entered retirement, his legacy persists, built on years of dedication and lasting contributions.

“During George’s time at TBF Thompson, the customers loved him – he did everything for them. Even now, George gets on with everybody. I don’t think there’s a road, street or county out there which doesn't know George Neely. George has helped everybody. We work all around the south of Ireland and everybody still stops us and says they know a man called George Neely.”

PRIDE AND PROFESSIONALISM For Graeme and George Neely the job has always been about more than simply getting from A to B. Backed by a combined 100 years of industry experience, they have built their careers on pride, professionalism and exceptionally high standards. From the condition of the vehicles to the quality of their work, every detail matters.

“George and I have learned a lot together throughout the years. We have always loved our jobs and taken great pride in them, no matter how small they are.

We’re older hands and fussier and always treat every vehicle and everything we have as if it’s our own. We take pride in our jobs – it doesn’t matter how small.

“I always tell the lads I work with now not to step into machines with

dirty feet, and ask them whether they would want somebody to do that with their own car. It’s not just a machine – it’s a man’s work, day and night.

“Everything has to be right for the customer, even if it’s at a loss for us. We have competition out there, but it doesn’t bother us. We weren’t brought up like that.”

For more information about DSR (NI), visit www.dsrni.com

IT WAS A COMBINATION OF THE EXPERIENCE AND PASSION GLEANED THROUGH THESE PURSUITS THAT ACTED AS A CATALYST FOR GRAEME’S FORMATION OF HIS OWN COMPANY.

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plant & civil engineer awards

AWARDS, ENTERTAINMENT AND A CELEBRATION 20 YEARS IN THE MAKING Get ready for a night to remember!

As we celebrate an incredible 20 years, this year’s Plant & Civil Engineer Awards will be bigger, bolder and more spectacular than ever.

Expect an evening packed with laughter, live music, incredible entertainment and unforgettable moments. Keeping

the energy high on the evening will be stand-up comedian Andrew Ryan, as well as the sensational A’Jay Campbell on saxophone, bringing a live musical experience to the celebrations.

And when the awards come to a close, the party is only just beginning! Q Radio

presenter and DJ Ibe Sesay will take to the decks to keep the dancefloor buzzing and the celebrations going late into the night. Plus, guests can get involved in our exciting anniversary auction, with fantastic prizes up for grabs.

20 years is a milestone worth celebrating — and we’re pulling out all the stops to make this an anniversary celebration our guests will never forget!

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER AWARDS SPONSORS 2026

PLANT & CIVIL CONSTRUCTION, QUARRY & RECYCLING MAGAZINE

AWARDS2026

AʼJAY CAMPBELL Bringing the energy, music and atmosphere to this milestone celebration.

Bookings and enquiries:

Instagram & Facebook: @ajc.sax

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PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

plant & civil engineer awards

BOOK YOUR TABLE PLANT & CIVIL CONSTRUCTION, QUARRY & RECYCLING MAGAZINE

AWARDS2026

Venue:

Crowne Plaza, Shaw’s Bridge, Belfast BT8 7XP

Date:

Thursday 19th November 2026

Dress Code: Gentlemen - Lounge Suit; Ladies - Cocktail Dress Time:

7pm for 7:30pm start

BOOK YOUR TABLE OF TEN £1300 +VAT INDIVIDUAL SEATS £135 +VAT TO BOOK A TABLE Contact Golda on 07724 192032, Martin on 07985 887171 or email golda@4squaremedia.net with your seats or table requirements.

www.plantandcivilengineer.com

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

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material handling

MOVING WITH PURPOSE: THE EVOLUTION OF MATERIAL HANDLING Improving Efficiency, Reducing Downtime and Maximising Performance In material handling, every movement counts. A faster loading cycle. Reduced idle time. Improved fuel efficiency. Less downtime. Small improvements can deliver major results when multiplied across hundreds of working hours and thousands of tonnes moved.

The modern productivity challenge is not simply about building bigger machines, it’s about building smarter ones. For contractors, quarry operators and recycling businesses, the goal remains the same: maximum performance with minimum waste.

Material handling has become one of the most important links in the industry’s chain.

These machines keep quarries producing, construction projects progressing, recycling facilities operating and businesses moving.

The industry is also undergoing a major transformation. The modern material handler is no longer judged solely by lifting capacity, engine power or size.

Today’s operators expect equipment that can deliver exceptional performance while reducing fuel use, improving safety, increasing uptime and adapting to an increasingly demanding marketplace.

The challenge is clear: create machines that can do more, while using less.

THE RISE OF THE INTELLIGENT MACHINE The material handler of today is far more than a machine that lifts and loads. Digital technology has transformed equipment into a valuable source of information.

Telematics systems allow owners and operators to monitor machine health, fuel consumption, utilisation and performance in real-time, helping them make better decisions and improve efficiency.

Predictive maintenance is also changing the way fleets are managed. Instead

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of reacting to unexpected failures, businesses can identify potential issues earlier, reducing downtime and protecting productivity. The connected machine is becoming an essential business tool.

SAFETY WITHOUT COMPROMISE Material handling takes place in some of the busiest working environments in industry.

Construction sites, quarries and recycling facilities are constantly changing workplaces where machines, vehicles and people operate together. As a result, safety has become one of the biggest areas of innovation.

Manufacturers are introducing improved visibility solutions, 360-degree camera systems, object detection technology, stability monitoring and operator-assistance features to help reduce risk and improve confidence behind the controls.

The future of safety is not simply responding to hazards, it’s preventing them.

THE OPERATOR ADVANTAGE Behind every advanced machine is a skilled operator. As technology continues to develop, manufacturers are placing greater focus on the working environment inside the cab. Modern machines feature improved ergonomics, quieter interiors, intuitive controls, enhanced visibility and digital displays designed to make operation easier and more comfortable.

In an industry facing skills shortages, creating a better operator experience has become a key priority.

The best machines don’t replace experience, they help operators achieve more.

ONE MACHINE, MANY POSSIBILITIES Material handling is no longer about a single application. Today’s machines are

expected to adapt quickly, moving between different tasks and environments depending on the needs of the operation. A handler may load aggregates in a quarry, process demolition waste, move timber, handle scrap metal or support recycling operations.

Attachments therefore play a key role in expanding machine capability, helping businesses maximise investment and improve flexibility. The ability to adapt has become one of the industry’s greatest strengths.

A machine’s productivity also depends on more than its specification sheet. As equipment becomes increasingly advanced, after-sales support has become a major factor in purchasing decisions. Reliable servicing, parts availability, technical expertise and preventative maintenance programmes all help businesses protect their investment and keep fleets operating.

The relationship between manufacturer, dealer and customer has never been more important. Because when a machine stops, productivity stops too.

THE NEXT CHAPTER The pace of innovation shows no sign of slowing. Automation, artificial intelligence, remote operation, improved battery technology and connected fleets are all set to influence the next generation of equipment. Machines will become more efficient, more intelligent and more capable of supporting operators in increasingly complex environments. The future of material handling will be shaped by those who can combine technology with practicality.

Material handling sits at the heart of modern industry, connecting the people, processes and technologies that keep businesses moving. As machines become smarter, cleaner and more efficient, the sector is entering an exciting new phase of development.

Panoramic 40.13 PLUS Stable, Safe, Precise Panoramic 40.13 PLUS Stable, Safe, Precise

Part of the stabilised range, Merlo’s P40.13 PLUS delivers 4-ton lifting capacity and 12.5m lift height, with advanced stabilisers, boom side shift, and chassis levelling for precision handling. Merlo’s ASCS is standard on the stabilised range and includes a Part the stabilised range, Merlo’sattachment P40.13 PLUSrecognition, delivers 4-ton lifting10.1” capacity 12.5mintegrated lift height, with advanced stabilisers, liveof digital load chart, automatic a large colourand display, weighing system, and operator boom side shift, and chassis levelling for precision handling.

Merlo’s ASCS is standard on the stabilised range and includes a profile settings, making it ideal for high-reach lifting tasks in the industrial, infrastructure and construction sectors - ensuring live digital load chart, automatic attachment recognition, a large 10.1” colour display, integrated weighing system, and operator maximum safety! profile settings, making it ideal for high-reach lifting tasks in the industrial, infrastructure and construction sectors - ensuring maximum safety!

4.0 4.0

12.5 12.5

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Dealer Locator Dealer Locator

material handling

MERLO’S e-WORKER: ELECTRIC TELEHANDLERS DELIVERING SAFETY, SUSTAINABILITY AND PERFORMANCE environments, making the machine particularly suitable for warehouses, event venues and renovation projects.

As the construction industry continues its shift towards cleaner, quieter and more efficient equipment, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to balance sustainability with productivity. Italian manufacturer Merlo is addressing that challenge with its e-WORKER electric telehandler, a compact machine designed to deliver zero-emission operation without compromising performance.

A pioneer in telehandler technology, Merlo was the first company in Europe to industrialise telehandler production and has built a reputation for innovation, safety and engineering excellence. The e-WORKER reflects the company’s latest response to changing market demands, offering contractors, rental businesses and facility operators an electric alternative to conventional diesel-powered machines.

With a lifting capacity of 2.5 tonnes, a lift height of five metres and a 90 hp electric powertrain, the e-WORKER is engineered to reduce emissions, noise and operating costs while maintaining the capabilities required for demanding material-handling applications.

SAFETY FIRST Safety has been a key focus throughout the development of the e-WORKER. The fully electric drivetrain eliminates exhaust emissions while significantly reducing noise and vibration, creating a safer and more comfortable environment for both operators and those working nearby.

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COMPACT BUT CAPABLE Despite its compact dimensions, the e-WORKER is designed to deliver strong performance.

A rear-wheel steering system providing up to 85 degrees of steering angle allows exceptionally tight turning circles and excellent manoeuvrability in restricted spaces.

Available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions, the machine can be adapted for a variety of applications, from indoor logistics operations to outdoor construction projects.

The eWorker in action.

For OMEC, an Italian rental and logistics specialist, these features have proved particularly valuable.

featuring basket-mounted controls, enabling safe working heights of up to seven metres.

“The zero-emission e-WORKER is extremely quiet, compact and manoeuvrable, making it ideal for working in confined spaces. It is also easy to use, making it perfect for less experienced operators, who can work safely from the outset.”

QUIET, EMMISSIONFREE OPERATION

The machine is equipped with a ROPS and FOPS-certified cab that provides protection against rollovers and falling objects without compromising visibility.

Large glazed surfaces offer clear sightlines to both the load and surrounding work area, helping operators perform lifting and positioning tasks with greater precision and confidence.

For access applications, the e-WORKER can also be fitted with an aerial work platform

The benefits of electric equipment extend well beyond sustainability targets. The e-WORKER can operate in environments where noise levels and exhaust emissions are critical concerns, including indoor facilities, urban projects and environmentally sensitive locations.

At Belgium’s Azelhof Horse Events equestrian centre, the machine’s quiet performance has delivered a practical advantage.

“It operates quietly and emissionfree, allowing us to work without disturbing the horses.”

The absence of exhaust emissions also improves air quality in enclosed working

The electric powertrain provides immediate torque and responsiveness, eliminating the warm-up time associated with diesel engines.

According to Italian contractor Dennel Srl: “There’s no need to wait for the engine to warm up. It’s faster and we can move it around easily.”

Operators can select between ECO, POWER and POWER+ operating modes, optimising energy consumption and performance according to the task at hand.

PRODUCTIVITY AND PRECISION Merlo has also focused on hydraulic performance, enabling smooth and precise simultaneous movements that improve efficiency during everyday operations.

OMEC highlights the versatility this brings. “It combines various technical features with one major advantage: it can be used both indoors and outdoors.”

material handling

The machine at work.

Merlo’s e-WORKER is extremely quiet, compact and manoeuvrable.

This flexibility allows businesses to use a single machine across multiple environments, helping to simplify fleet management and maximise equipment utilisation.

A quick-release battery system and straightforward charging process further support productivity by reducing downtime.

LONG RUNTIME AND LOWER COSTS

The electric drivetrain also eliminates fuel consumption and reduces routine maintenance requirements, helping lower total operating costs over the machine’s lifetime. Users consistently cite lower running costs and reduced noise pollution among the machine’s most significant advantages.

Battery autonomy remains one of the key considerations for electric construction equipment.

Merlo states that the e-WORKER can provide up to eight hours of continuous operation, supported by energy-management systems designed to minimise consumption and downtime.

In practice, some users report even longer intervals between charges.

“We can use it for two or three days with a single charge,” says Sofia Ciotti of Ciotti Ponteggi.

DESIGNED AROUND THE OPERATOR Operator comfort has been another priority for Merlo. The e-WORKER features an ergonomic cab layout, intuitive controls, allround visibility and a suspension

seat designed to reduce fatigue throughout the working day.

LED work lights improve visibility in poor lighting conditions, while a simplified user interface helps make operation more straightforward.

Ciotti points to the machine’s compact footprint as a major benefit on constrained sites.

“Being compact, it allows you to work even in difficult spaces, simplifying daily operations such as unloading and positioning materials.”

LISTENING TO THE END USER A defining feature of the e-WORKER’s development has been Merlo’s close collaboration with its customers. By

gathering continual feedback from operators working across construction, logistics and specialist sectors, the company has been able to refine the machine around real-world requirements.

The experiences shared by users across Europe underline a common theme: greater safety, ease of use, productivity and versatility. As electrification continues to reshape the equipment market, the e-WORKER demonstrates how batterypowered telehandlers can deliver practical benefits that extend well beyond emissions reduction, offering a compelling combination of performance, operator comfort and lower operating costs.

The e-WORKER is engineered to reduce emissions, noise and operating costs.

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material handling

DEVELON DL420-7 LOADER HELPS HORMICASA CANTERAS BOOST PRODUCTIVITY AND FUEL SAVINGS

DL420-7 wheel loader.

Situated in Navarre in Spain, Hormicasa Canteras has strengthened its lineup with a second Develon wheel loader to help fulfil rising production requirements at its Mendavia gravel pit and to reduce operating costs.

The constant pursuit of efficiency, productivity and profitability in aggregate extraction and processing operations has led Hormicasa to bolster its machinery fleet with a new Develon DL420-7 wheel loader.

A leading company in Navarre and La Rioja for concrete manufacturing, aggregate extraction and waste management, the firm has once again placed its trust in the brand following a positive experience with a DL420-5 model purchased five years ago.

Hormicasa Canteras is a family-owned business with a long history in the sector. Currently managed by the third generation of the founding family, the company operates out of the Loar gravel

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pit in Mendavia (Navarre), where it extracts and processes various types of aggregates for use in concrete, asphalt mixtures and construction sub-bases.

ENHANCED OPERATIONAL CAPACITY

“Our company dates back to our grandparents’ time. Today, we are the third generation running the business and we remain committed to modernising our processes to stay competitive,” explained Jorge López, Manager of Hormicasa Canteras.

“We acquired the first DL420-5 because we needed a loader capable of supplying material to the plant and loading trucks continuously. With the increase in daily workload, a single machine was no longer sufficient, and we needed to boost production,” noted Jorge López.

Satisfaction with the performance of the first unit was the deciding factor in repeating the experience with Develon.

At the Mendavia site, extracted material first undergoes pre-screening before being moved to the washing plant, where it is cleaned and sorted into different grain sizes based on its intended use. Wheel loaders play a vital role in the entire production process. They are responsible for feeding the processing plant and loading the trucks that distribute materials to customers.

“We were familiar with the brand and have a very good relationship with Reyvena – Develon’s official distributor in our area – as well as with the support team at Centrocar, the National Importer for Spain. We are very satisfied with the service provided, and since the DL4205 had performed so well, we decided to opt for the new DL420-7, a more modern and efficient model,” he added.

material handling IMPROVED EFFICIENCY FOR DEMANDING OPERATIONS Designed for demanding work environments such as quarries, gravel pits and aggregate plants, the Develon DL420-7 combines power, load capacity and operational efficiency.

With a standard bucket capacity of 4.5 m³ – one of the largest in its class – this model offers a productivity increase of up to 7% compared to the previous generation.

The combination of a five-speed automatic Powershift transmission, heavy-duty axles and a high-capacity hydraulic system allows for high work rates, even during continuous loading and material handling operations.

Its high breakout and tractive forces facilitate penetration into compacted materials, while the hydraulic system ensures fast, precise movements to reduce cycle times and maximise output.

“We needed a machine capable of working long hours daily with high material volumes.

The productivity offered by the DL420-7 allows us to maintain the pace required by our operations,” noted the Manager of Hormicasa.

FUEL SAVINGS IN FOCUS If there is one aspect that stands out particularly in Hormicasa Canteras’ experience with the new Develon loader, it is fuel consumption.

“The most significant feature of this model is undoubtedly the fuel savings. It was something we had always sought, and with the DL420-7 loader, we have seen a significant reduction in consumption. We are talking about a drop of between 1.5 and 2 l per hour – approximately 10% less than the previous model,” stated López. The energy efficiency of the DL420-7 is the result of a combination of advanced technologies. Its Scania DC13 engine – compliant with European Stage V emission standards – incorporates highpressure fuel injection and optimised electronic management to maximise combustion and minimise fuel consumption.

The machine on-site.

In addition, the machine features Situation Awareness Technology 2 (SAT2), which continuously analyses the loader’s activity and automatically adjusts engine performance to actual operating needs.

This is complemented by three operating modes – AT, Normal and Power – allowing the machine’s response to be tailored to each specific application. Automatic engine idling and shutdown systems also help reduce fuel consumption during periods of inactivity, while simultaneously improving operating costs and the operation’s sustainability.

THE OPERATOR EXPERIENCE Another advancement highly valued by Hormicasa Canteras compared to the previous generation is found in the operator’s station.

“At first glance, it might look like a similar machine, but the operator clearly notices the differences. The cab offers better visibility, greater comfort and superior ergonomics. The operators are very pleased with it,” explained Jorge López.

The new DL420-7 cab has been designed to enhance both operator comfort and safety. It

features extensive glass areas to maximise visibility and modern touchscreens that manage all key machine functions, such as operating settings, the weighing system, climate control, the rear-view camera and the multimedia system. It also includes an integrated help function that provides quick access to information on machine operation, making the operators’ daily work easier.

DRIVING PROGRESS FORWARD The addition of the Develon DL420-7 confirms Hormicasa Canteras’ strategy of investing in machinery that delivers tangible improvements in productivity, efficiency and operating costs.

After five years of positive experience with the DL420-5, the Navarre-based company has found an evolution in the new generation that is capable of meeting the growing production demands of its business.

“When a machine performs well, is reliable and helps cut costs, sticking with the same brand is a logical decision. With the DL420-7, we have taken a step forward in efficiency and productivity,” concluded Jorge López.

The DL420-7 with the DL420-5 model at the company’s Mendavia gravel pit.

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material handling

New Pathways to Growth for McHale Plant Sales Tipperary-based McHale Plant Sales is opening up new opportunities for growth following its recent appointment

as Fuchs distributor for its range of materials handling equipment across the Ireland and Northern Ireland markets.

In addition to their construction-to-agri operations as long-established Komatsu distributors, their appointment to represent Fuchs in Ireland and Northern Ireland markets is one that gives the Birdhill and Rathcoole business a high-profile presence in recycling, scrap and metals recovery, in port and quayside materials handling, and in timber stockpile management, processing and transportation applications.

Commenting, their Chairman, Michael McHale said: “our appointment to distribute Fuchs is a significant addition, boosting our role within a ‘net-zero’ focused environment by extending our reach in waste recovery and reprocessing, port and materials handling, and by expanding our strong presence in timber harvesting and processing sectors”.

A Terex Group brand, Fuchs equipment comprises tracked, wheeled, and fixedposition grab handlers used primarily for lifting, sorting and loading of bulk materials in yard, warehouse, port, and demolition site applications.

Pictured at a recent visit to McHale Plant Sales premises in Birdhill are Fuchs Sales & Marketing Director, Jens Koerting, (centre left); and Fuchs Regional Sales Manager, Heribert Kosa (second right); with McHale Plant Sales Directors, Liam Foley, Denis McGrath, Michael McHale and Darragh O’Driscoll.

Powered by conventional diesel engines and electric-powered drive options, a distinguishing feature is their hydraulically-driven, variable-height adjustable cab from which the operator can have bird’s-eye view control and visibility when sorting and loading.

Screencore Appoints RME Solutions in France RME Solutions has been revealed as Screencore’s distributor in France.

Customers across France will have access to its modern, productive and efficient range of material handling and processing equipment.

Supplying the entire Screencore range of screens, crushers, mobile conveyors and trommels, RME Solutions will not only provide the equipment, but also provide a complete aftersales service, including parts, service and customer support.

Screencore was founded to provide modern mobile material processing equipment with real customer requirements in mind.

Designed and manufactured in Northern Ireland, at the heart of the world of mobile crushing and screening, the company has in recent years produced a range of products characterised by versatility, ease of use, productivity and energy efficiency. Although active in France since its creation, Screencore has now set itself the goal of providing the best

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A Screencore XJ jaw crusher on demonstration to French customers co-ordinated and undertaken by RME Solutions.

in customer-centric equipment and care by appointing RME as a strategic French distributor.

“RME’s Managing Director, Benoit Roglet, and his team are the benchmark in France for professionalism and customer service. It was very easy to choose RME because they have the industry knowledge, focus and expertise to take the Screencore offering to

the next level in France,” says Ciarán Ryan from Screencore.

“The Screencore range will integrate synergistically with the existing RME product lines, which will offer a comprehensive set of solutions to RME’s customers.”

Full-service solution provider rME is a leading provider of specialized machinery solutions for a variety of industries,

including quarrying, recycling, construction, demolition, and waste management. Active across France, the company is committed to providing solutions that meet the specific needs of its customers, providing them with the tools to tackle any task at hand. The Screencore range of mobile screens, crushers, trommels, mobile conveyors and other equipment is considered the perfect complement to RME’s existing equipment ranges.

RME’s experienced team offers innovative and highperformance machine solutions that help companies gain efficiency. Whether it’s a new installation or the modernisation of existing equipment, RME provides tailor-made solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. By working closely with Screencore, RME will be able to provide the most suitable solution for each challenge.

“Everyone at Screencore is looking forward to working with Benoit and his team. I would like to welcome RME to the global Screencore family, and I look forward to working with the company to ensure that customers across France maximize their screen and/or crusher investment,” concludes Ciarán Ryan, Director of Screencore.

When things get tight Maximum comfort even when space is limited. With its large cabin and a short rear slewing radius this wheeled excavator enables you to work efficiently and flexibility day in, day out.

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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

Wheeled Excavator A 910 Compact

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material handling

THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB: HOW ONE COMBILIFT HAS DELIVERED SAFE OPERATIONS FOR 28 YEARS with greater control and stability, while navigating tight spaces and narrow doorways safely and efficiently.

The story of the first-ever Combilift C-Series demonstrates the lasting value of choosing the right tool for the job and the long-term benefits of investing in safe, efficient material handling equipment.

For nearly three decades, the C-Series has transformed the site operations and the way the company used to handle long loads.

And the benefits extend beyond traffic disruption. It has also shortened unloading times and significantly improved safety for operators, pedestrians, and passing vehicles.

Still in operation after 28 years at J.G. Kelly Supplies in Monaghan, Ireland, the original multi-directional forklift has helped transform the company’s handling of long loads, improving safety, increasing efficiency, and proving that purpose-built equipment can deliver exceptional returns for decades.

Before the company started operating a Combilift, traditional forklift methods created significant operational and safety challenges. Long PVC stillages measuring up to six metres had to be moved through a doorway only four metres wide.

Conventional counterbalance forklifts could not handle the task safely or efficiently.

Operator Tony McManus explains: “Before, we just used to use counterbalance trucks.

(L-R) Operator Tony McManus and Managing Director Paul Kelly.

We had to reverse a lorry in here and were on a main busy road in the town.” He adds: “But now, it just pulls up in the loading bay. We can offload it safely, both sides if needed, with minimal obstruction to traffic.”

The C-Series' multi-directional capability provided the ideal solution, allowing operators to move long loads sideways

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Managing Director Paul Kelly highlights: “I never expected we'd still be using the same forklift nearly three decades later. But it’s a testament to the build quality of the machine as it's still running after 28 years.”

The success of the original C-Series led J.G. Kelly Supplies to expand its fleet with additional Combilift products, including other Combilift models, such as the pedestrian Combi-CS and an Aisle Master in their Limerick warehouse.

STORE MORE. WORK SAFER.

ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE & EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS WITH COMBILIFT

Combilift’s range of multidirectional forklifts, pedestrian reach trucks, straddle carriers and container loaders will allow you to maximize the capacity, improve efficiency and enhance the safety of your facility.

Contact Us Today

To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

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16/09/2026 13:01:54

540-140 TELEHANDLER

UNRIVALLED PERFORmANCE

DISCOVER mORE

news

Johnston McFarland Steps into Technical Director Role at MAGNA solutions, giving him experience of product development, customer support, commissioning and commercial operations.

MAGNA has strengthened its technical leadership capabilities with the appointment of Johnston McFarland as Technical Director.

TM

Commenting on his appointment, McFarland said: “I’m excited to be joining MAGNA at this stage in its development and to have the opportunity to help shape the brand’s future. Throughout my time with Terex, I’ve worked closely with customers, distributors and colleagues across different parts of the business, and I’m looking forward to bringing that experience into this role.

In the role, McFarland will provide technical leadership across the MAGNA product portfolio, so that products are correctly specified, supported, introduced and continuously improved throughout their lifecycle. He will work closely with engineering, quality, sales and aftermarket teams, while supporting distributors and customers worldwide.

McFarland joined Terex in 2019 as an Electrical Commissioning Engineer, having previously worked as an industrial electrician, service engineer and business owner. Over the past seven years he has progressed across the business, most recently serving

Johnston McFarland.

as Installation & Commissioning Manager.

He has also held a Business Development Manager role focused on water treatment

“MAGNA has built strong momentum in a relatively short period of time. I’m looking forward to working with the team, supporting our distributors and customers, and helping to ensure our products continue to meet the needs of the market.”

Putting Safety First in Mannok’s Complex Plant Upgrade were fully vetted, competent and appropriately trained before undertaking any work on site.

Safety was at the heart of Mannok’s recent cement plant upgrade in Ballyconnell, with detailed planning and robust controls helping to manage the risks of complex works in a busy operational environment.

Planning for the project began at an early stage, with a strong emphasis placed on risk identification and mitigation from the outset. As the project was scheduled to run for more than 30 days, Mannok formally notified the Health and Safety Authority, with a comprehensive safety file developed outlining contractor details, timelines and key project information.

From September 2025 onwards, safety planning intensified, with close collaboration between Mannok’s internal team, led by Decarbonisation Engineering Manager Paul Carron and Health and Safety Officer, Felicity Long, alongside main contractor Fuller and principal sub-contractor Simetrexial. This included the completion of detailed inductions, training programmes and early mobilisation, with Simetrexial commencing preparatory works on site in December.

Given the scale and complexity of the project, a number of significant safety risks were identified early in the planning process. Work at height represented a primary risk, particularly around the kiln hood area. To mitigate this, dedicated

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Mannok Health and Safety Officer, Felicity Long, and Decarbonisation Engineering Manager Paul Carron.

scaffolding teams were assigned to the project, ensuring safe and controlled access at all times.

With up to 150-to-200 personnel on site during peak periods, effective segregation was also critical. Work areas were carefully managed to minimise interaction between teams wherever possible, reducing the risk of incidents in a busy operational environment.

Crane operations presented another major focus. The project required the use of multiple cranes, ranging from 35-tonne and 200-tonne units through to a 700-tonne crane supplied by Dublin Crane Hire. Strict exclusion zones were implemented, with no unauthorised personnel permitted within designated lifting areas.

Additional planning was required to account for underground tunnels within the plant. Crane positioning

was carefully assessed over multiple site visits to ensure that lifting operations avoided these sensitive areas entirely.

A range of safety systems and controls were implemented to manage these risks effectively.

Daily co-ordination meetings were held each morning, bringing together all key stakeholders – including Mannok personnel, contractors, scaffolders and electricians. These sessions reviewed the previous day’s activities, outlined the plan for the day ahead, and identified upcoming tasks. This approach ensured clear communication across all teams and enabled effective planning for safe working and area segregation.

Mannok’s established Permit to Work system, in place for over three years, played a key role in maintaining high safety standards. This system ensured that all contractors

Regular site walks were also conducted by the project team, allowing for the early identification and resolution of potential hazards. This proactive approach ensured that risks were addressed quickly and did not escalate. The lifting and installation of the new kiln hood represented the highestrisk phase of the project. This complex operation required the precise lifting of the structure from ground level into position.

The lift was carried out by an experienced operator familiar with the site, which contributed to its safe execution. Extensive planning covered all aspects of the operation, from routine tasks to more complex considerations, including the use and monitoring of balance bars due to the uneven weight distribution of the kiln hood. During the lift, strict controls were enforced to ensure that only essential personnel were present within the work area, further reducing risk.

In addition to detailed planning for specific tasks, Mannok’s Cement Emergency Response Plan remained in place throughout the project. This was supported by dedicated emergency arrangements aligned with lifting operations, as well as the presence of trained First Aiders and Fire Wardens on site at all times.

5 PLASKETTS CLOSE, KILBEGS BUSINESS PARK, ANTRIM BT41 4LY

new headquarters

LOLEX OPENS THE DOORS TO AN EXCITING NEW CHAPTER WITH ITS NEW ANTRIM HQ introduced to powered access from a young age – “I was on my first platform when I was about nine years of age” – Julie has spent much of her life around access equipment, building a far-reaching understanding of the industry, its customers and, crucially, the demands placed on rental companies and their subsequent needs.

A brand new site, an expanding powered access equipment portfolio and more than 25 years of industry experience are providing the foundations for the next stage of growth at LOLEX. The powered access specialist has carved out a significant new milestone in its development with the official opening of its new Headquarters (HQ) at 5 Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Business Park in Antrim.

The recent unveiling of the impressive facilities united customers, suppliers, industry partners and friends of the business to help celebrate LOLEX’s journey so far while looking firmly towards its future.

The special event featured live music, an artisan barbeque lunch, tours, and a ribbon-cutting portion of the proceedings in which Ronald Donders, General Manager for Europe at Sinoboom, joined LOLEX’s Managing Director Julie Houston Smyth and Director Trevor Smyth to declare the new HQ officially open.

The significance of LOLEX’s new HQ extends well beyond the bricks. The event was as much a celebration of the people and relationships behind the business as it was of the new building. Together with Trevor Smyth, Julie Houston Smyth has built LOLEX with hard work, resilience and passion.

And for them – as well as the rest of the team – the opening of the impressive site signals not just a new professional chapter, but a pinnacle personal accomplishment too.

Julie explained: “We started out from nothing and it’s a revelation for us to see how far we’ve come in the short time-frame that we’ve done it. We originally started the business from our home before

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Ronald Donders, General Manager for Europe at Sinoboom, joined LOLEX’s Julie Houston Smyth and Trevor Smyth for the ribbon-cutting.

working out of a farm for a long time, but we literally grew out of it over the last couple of years.

“The opening of our new facility is taking the business to another level. With this new space we’re going to be able to offer a variation of more products and have more scope in terms of our service work. We also have the space to take more things into the workshop for major repairs.”

LONG-TIME INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE The move to the new premises is another step forward for a business that has been shaped by decades of experience within the access industry. With more than 25 years on the rental side of the sector, Julie has witnessed first-hand just how dramatically it has evolved. Having been

“When I started out in the industry, there were limited females in it and I was determined that this would not hold me back. Back then, people also started out with second-hand equipment in their hire fleets. There wasn’t the range of machines or quantity of manufacturers that there are now,” said Julie.

“Everything that we have learned on the rental side of the industry, we have applied to this business. A lot of our customers are rental companies and we understand their requirements and the reaction times they need. If they have equipment that has a problem and it’s on-site with one of their customers, they need to react immediately, therefore at LOLEX, we react immediately for them.

“Every single order matters to us – whether it’s one machine or 100 machines. We treat every customer the same and will always give them the same service level and focus.”

QUALITY PRODUCTS AND PARTNERSHIPS

The LOLEX team.

The new HQ is the latest chapter reflecting the growth the business has experienced in recent years. And a key part of that growth has been the expansion of its manufacturer partnerships. With years of handson knowledge of a wide range of equipment, LOLEX is wellplaced to assess the capabilities

new headquarters

LOLEX’s new HQ at Kilbegs Business Park in Antrim.

of new products entering the market. That expertise gave them confidence in SINOBOOM from the outset, leading to a flourishing partnership that has grown alongside the manufacturer’s expansion across Europe. In 2021, the company achieved a milestone by securing the distribution for SINOBOOM in Ireland, and during 2024, it expanded the official SINOBOOM Distribution to the UK & Ireland.

“The reason we got on-board with SINOBOOM is because of the quality of the equipment. It is our biggest seller – the brand focuses on a lot of mainstream equipment that you readily see in most places. The range includes the slab scissor range and the rough terrain scissor range, as well as the vertical mast lifts and boom platforms – articulated and telescopic – which are available in both battery and diesel for working indoors and outdoors. SINOBOOM’s range includes super booms too.”

LOLEX is additionally proud to be Dinolift powered access equipment specialists. The Dinolift mobile elevated work platforms are renowned for their exceptional construction and safety features, adhering to the most rigorous standards, and engineered for lasting durability.

“The Scandinavian brand is run by a family-owned

business that produces fantastic, well-built, brilliantquality products,” said Julie.

UK-built by an engineering business, the Navigator range also aligns with LOLEX’s focus on quality. The platforms are sustainable, self-powered, and precision-engineered for performance. As well as impressing LOLEX with its build quality, Navigator stands out with its innovative emergency lowering system – a feature that, while may seem simple, offers significant value to the hire sector, and one that was recognised by the team when taking on the dealership.

LOLEX’s portfolio further includes Palazzani, a long-standing Italian spider lift company with a selection of quality specialist tracked units, covering a wide range of heights and outreaches, as well as the Elevah line-up of compact order picking machines.

BEYOND THE EQUIPMENT LOLEX places great value on its franchise network and the role each franchise plays in the wider business, but the company's approach is centred on combining equipment with the specialist support customers need throughout the life of their machines. Today, the business not only operates as a specialist

supplier of powered access equipment suitable for all kinds of work environments, but it is widely renowned for its technical support, service and training.

Supporting customers beyond the initial sale is at the heart of the business.

The team’s experience in the rental market has highlighted just how important reliable technical support and training are to keeping machines working safely.

“LOLEX’s biggest strength is that we’re not just a sales business – we also offer a support package. When customers invest in a product, they need to be able to keep it running. In our industry it’s also important for engineers to be operating at a certain level because these machines put people’s lives in the air – it’s no small thing.

“The new facility allows us the space to provide the hands-on practical training as well as the theory training. We ran our first one-day technical training course in the training room the day before our opening for which we flew in the trainer from Sinoboom in Holland, had people come from as far as Wicklow to attend it.

“The support that we give people is massively important to us.”

LOLEX’s Sinoboom range on display at the HQ.

LOOKING AHEAD As for what’s next, the future is set to be busier than ever for the LOLEX team.

“We have different products coming in 2027. That’ll give us a wider range and we’re really looking forward to that,” explained Julie.

The opening of the new HQ therefore represents a significant moment in the LOLEX story. As the doors officially opened at the Kilbegs Business Park-based site, the message from LOLEX was clear – this is not simply new premises; it is the beginning of the next chapter. And with an expanding range of equipment, established industry expertise and a growing network of customers and partners behind it, LOLEX looks well-placed to make that chapter an exciting one.

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court report

Company Fined €100,000 Following Fatal Workplace Incident A company was fined a total of €100,000 at Wexford Circuit Criminal Court, following a fatal work-related incident which occurred in 2021.

An employee was fatally injured when he was struck by a loading shovel as he walked across a yard. The company earlier pleaded guilty to Section 8(2) (a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005, contrary to Section 77(9) (a) in that it failed in their duty to ensure the provision of appropriate controls and measures in respect of moving vehicles

and pedestrians and failed to ensure the segregation of pedestrians from vehicles.

The company also pleaded guilty to Section 19 (1) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005, contrary to Section 77(2) in that it failed to undertake a written risk assessment and implement appropriate measures and controls following the provision and use of a large custom made front loading bucket attachment which adversely affected the forward facing visibility of the operative of the loading shovel.

Assistant Chief Executive at the Health and Safety Authority, Eibhlin O’Leary, said: “This tragic incident resulted in the loss of a worker’s life and serves as a stark reminder of the serious dangers posed by moving vehicles in workplaces. Employers have a clear legal duty to identify risks through adequate risk assessment and to ensure that effective control measures are put in place to protect workers, particularly where pedestrians and vehicles operate in the same area. Failure to do so can lead to grave and devastating consequences.”

€400,000 Fine Issued to Company After Workplace Tragedy A company was convicted and fined a total of €400,000 after pleading guilty to breaches of safety, health and welfare at work legislation.

The fatal work-related incident occurred at a dairy farm in which a farmer was fatally injured from a pneumatic powered parlour back entry gate, designed

and manufactured by the aforementioned company.

This gate was used to control animals in the milking parlour, creating a separation between the holding area and the cow standing area, and keeping the cows in position while being milked.

The company had previously pleaded guilty to six charges in breach of safety, health and welfare at work legislation.

The judge imposed a fine of €200,000 on the breach of Section 16(3) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 contrary to Section 77(2)(a) and a fine of €200,000 on the breach of Section 16(1) (a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 contrary to Section 77(9)(a).

The remaining counts were taken into consideration.

Chief Executive Officer at the HSA, Mark Cullen, commented: “This tragic incident demonstrates the vital importance of ensuring machinery is properly designed, tested and supplied with adequate safety information. Manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe for use at work. The consequences of failing to do so can be devastating.”

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PLANT & CIVIL IRELAND’S CONSTRUCTION, QUARRY & RECYCLING MAGAZINE

golf day

An opportunity to network, catch up and enjoy a day of golf in support of charity.

A great day on the course as a record number of players came together.

IOQ NI BRANCH’S 2026 GOLF DAY TEES OFF FOR A WORTHY CAUSE The Institute of Quarrying (IOQ) Northern Ireland Branch’s Annual Golf Day once again proved to be a highlight of the industry calendar, with a record number of players gathering at Edenmore Golf & Country Club, comprising members, sponsors and industry colleagues spanning the sector.

This year, the Chairman’s Charity is Cancer Focus Northern Ireland and, due to the incredible support showcased through team entries, sponsorship,

raffles and prizes, the branch is on target to surpass last year’s fundraising total. The IOQ team has subsequently expressed its gratitude to everyone who donated prizes and supported the raffles, helping to raise much-needed funds for a very worthy cause.

The event once again provided an excellent opportunity for networking, catching up with colleagues and supporting an important charity, and excitement is already building for next year’s event!

More participants on the day.

Players enjoy a competitive round of golf.

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smart construction solutions

THE SITE JUST GOT SMARTER How Connected Machines, Digital Solutions and Apps are Transforming productivity Across Modern Construction Sites The construction machine has come a long way. Today, an excavator, loader, telehandler or dumper is no longer simply a machine that turns fuel into productivity. Increasingly, it is a connected piece of technology, capable of generating valuable information about how it is being used, where it is working and what it needs to keep performing.

And that information is changing the way construction companies operate.

Connected-machine technology, fleet management platforms, site management systems and dedicated apps are bringing equipment, operators, site managers and project teams closer together than ever before. The result? A smarter, more connected and more efficient way of working.

For contractors, efficiency has always mattered. But with operating costs under pressure, projects becoming increasingly demanding and businesses looking closely at fuel consumption, downtime, productivity and machine utilisation, making every hour and every litre count has never been more important. This is where digital solutions can make a real difference.

With the right connected platform, vital machine information can be available at the touch of a screen. Managers can check where equipment is working, monitor operating hours, keep an eye on fuel consumption and receive maintenance information without having to be physically beside the machine. That means fewer assumptions and more informed decisions.

A machine approaching a scheduled service can trigger an alert. Excessive idling can be identified. Utilisation data can show whether a machine is working hard enough to justify its place on a project – or whether it could be better deployed elsewhere. And when something does go wrong, connected technology can help teams respond faster.

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Instead of waiting for a problem to become a breakdown, digital monitoring can provide early warnings and useful information that helps maintenance teams plan their response. That can mean less unexpected downtime and more time doing what the machine was put on site to do.

POWER IN YOUR POCKET Apps are moving beyond machine data, helping construction teams connect people, plant and projects and keep the whole site running more efficiently. The smartphone is becoming as familiar on-site as the hard hat.

Construction apps are changing the way teams communicate, co-ordinate and manage the day-to-day business of building. From the machine in the excavation to the project manager in the site office, digital tools are helping information move faster – and helping people spend less time looking for it. Because efficiency on site isn’t just about how quickly a machine works. It’s about how efficiently the whole operation works around it.

Today’s site management apps can bring a huge range of everyday tasks together in one place. Progress can be recorded as work happens, giving site managers and project teams a clearer picture of where a job stands without relying on paperwork, spreadsheets or a chain of phone calls. It is a simple idea, but a powerful one: put the information where the work is happening. For a busy contractor, that can mean having a live overview of the site rather than piecing together updates from different people and different systems.

That connectivity can have a direct impact on efficiency. Problems can be identified earlier, decisions can be made faster and site teams can spend less time on administration and more time managing the work.

KEEPING THE WHOLE FLEET MOVING The benefits extend beyond individual machines. Fleet management apps are

giving contractors a much clearer overview of their equipment, bringing multiple machines and multiple sites together in one digital environment. For businesses managing substantial fleets, that visibility can be invaluable. That visibility can help companies make better decisions about machine allocation, servicing and replacement, while reducing the amount of time and resource spent chasing information. And when fleet data is considered alongside wider site information, the picture becomes even more powerful.

FROM THE CAB TO THE OFFICE Perhaps the biggest change is that digital technology is beginning to remove the traditional divide between the jobsite and the office. The operator has information.

The site manager has information. The fleet manager has information. The service team has information. And increasingly, they can all be working from the same data. Apps are making this information easier to access, too. What once required a phone call, paperwork or a trip to the machine can now be checked from a smartphone or tablet.

WHAT COMES NEXT? As machines become increasingly connected, the possibilities will only grow. More intelligent systems, greater automation, predictive maintenance, real-time reporting and increasingly sophisticated apps are all moving the industry towards a jobsite where equipment doesn’t simply perform a task – it communicates how well that task is being performed. But the real opportunity isn’t technology for technology’s sake, the winners will be the solutions that solve genuine problems on-site.

Because on today’s construction site, efficiency isn’t something you find at the end of the project. It’s something you build into every machine, every app, every decision and every working day.

smart construction solutions

FROM PAPERWORK TO PLATFORM: HOW DMC CONSULTANCY DELIVERED MEANEY’S DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION CASE STUDY Meaney Plant & Civil replaced fragmented, paper-based site processes with one fully integrated digital platform – built and delivered by DMC Consultancy on our Site Sync framework.

THE BUSINESS Meaney Plant & Civil is an Irish civil engineering and plant hire contractor, operating a large fleet of plant, vehicles, and specialist equipment alongside a growing workforce of employees and subcontractors.

As the business scaled, the paper-based

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systems behind daily timesheets, health and safety records, equipment inspections, and plant records became a bottleneck – slowing down information flow and creating unnecessary administration and risk.

manage the build, and deliver it as a fully branded platform for Meaney’s business.

THE BRIEF

DMC built Meaney’s platform on Site Sync, our adaptable workforce and operations template, tailoring it to Meaney’s branding and day-to-day processes rather than starting from a blank page. The result is a single mobile and web platform covering:

Meaney needed more than a single-purpose app. They needed one connected platform that could bring every operational process – workforce, fleet, compliance, and site administration – into a single central hub, without stitching together disconnected software packages. DMC Consultancy was brought in to scope that requirement,

THE SOLUTION: A FULLY INTEGRATED PLATFORM BUILT ON SITE SYNC

• Digital employee, subcontractor, and management logins with role-based access

smart construction solutions

• Online site inductions completed before workers arrive on site

• Starting from Site Sync, a proven platform, rather than a costly ground-up build

• Digital clock-in and clock-out, replacing manual attendance records

• Shaping the platform’s branding and workflows around Meaney’s actual site operations

• Electronic Dayworks reporting • Digital holiday requests and approvals • Centralised health and safety management • Vehicle daily inspection checklists • Digital GA1 and GA2 plant inspections • Complete equipment and plant management • Live plant locator technology to track equipment across sites • Central document storage and compliance management • A real-time reporting and administration dashboard Every one of these functions runs through the same platform, giving Meaney’s management team instant visibility across projects, employees, vehicles, and equipment – without relying on paperwork or juggling multiple disconnected systems.

WHY DMC’S APPROACH WORKED The brief called for a genuine shift in how the business operates, not just a new app layered on top of old processes.

DMC’s role went beyond development:

• Managing the relationship between Meaney and the development team, translating operational requirements into clear technical specifications • Iterating quickly as new operational needs surfaced – from subcontractor visibility to plant compliance tracking

THE IMPACT Since going live, the platform has moved Meaney close to fully paperless daily operations – inductions, attendance, inspections, and Dayworks reporting are now captured digitally and available instantly, rather than collected on paper and processed later.

• Total removal of paper from daily site operations • Reduced office administration, with information entered once in the field available across the business immediately • Stronger compliance and audit readiness, through consistent digital inductions, inspections, and health and safety records • Real-time workforce visibility across attendance, subcontractor activity, and reporting for every project

• Better equipment utilisation, with live plant tracking supporting on-time servicing and inspections • Greater accountability across the business, with every action digitally recorded Meaney’s transformation reflects what a fully integrated digital platform can do for a construction business: replacing fragmented, paper-based systems with a single source of truth for employees, subcontractors, plant, vehicles, and management alike.

WHY THIS MATTERS FOR DMC’S CLIENTS Meaney’s platform is a practical example of how DMC works: we start from Site Sync, our proven operations template, and adapt it – branding, features, and workflows – to fit how each client actually runs their business. Clients get a fully integrated, tailored platform without the cost or timeline of a build from scratch, and DMC stays on as the operational partner as the platform and the business evolve together.

If your business manages a site-based or mixed workforce and wants to move away from paper-based processes, DMC Consultancy can show you how Site Sync could be adapted for you.

Contact: Danielle, DMC Consultancy: danielle@dmcconsultancy.com dmcconsultancy.com

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smart construction solutions

JCB UPDATES LIVELINK PLATFORM low tyre pressures that can affect fuel consumption, machine mobility and tyre life.

JCB has updated its LiveLink telematics platform with a series of developments designed to help customers improve profitability, safety and sustainability across their operations.

SAFETY AND SECURITY LiveLink continues to expand its safety and security capabilities through a combination of machine monitoring, operator checks and real-time alerts.

The latest updates see expanded safety and security functionality added across the platform. These include new remote machine management features – including JCB IntelliSense integration – available on Hi-Viz Loadall telescopic handlers.

JCB has also announced it has made its LiveLink telematics system standard on all mini excavators and site dumpers – giving customers instant access to connected machine data from the day their equipment is delivered. Integration with JCB’s mini excavator and site dumper models means JCB LiveLink is now available across the company’s entire construction and agricultural equipment ranges.

JCB LiveLink is designed to help customers monitor and maintain their machines more effectively. Currently connecting more than 580,000 machines worldwide and supporting over 40,000 customers, JCB LiveLink is accessible through a web browser and mobile app and covers JCB and mixed fleets. The system provides information on machine location, utilisation, fuel consumption, maintenance requirements and security, helping customers maximise uptime, improve fuel efficiency and make more informed operational decisions.

JCB Group Managing Director – Global Aftersales, Mario Moser, said: “Customers are increasingly looking for ways to reduce operating costs, improve machine utilisation and maintain safe, efficient worksites. JCB LiveLink continues to evolve to support those objectives.

“The latest developments reflect the growing range of users who rely on machine information across modern operations. Whether they are running a

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Customers can configure health alerts, maintenance notifications, geofencing and out-of-hours alerts to help identify potential issues early and flag unauthorised machine use.

business, managing a fleet, overseeing a project or operating a machine themselves, customers need access to information that is relevant to their role and helps them make informed decisions.

“By helping customers make better-informed decisions, LiveLink can bring increased profitability, safer working environments and more sustainable machine operation.”

GREATER CONTROL JCB’s Hi-Viz Loadall telescopic handlers – the 535-125, 540-140 and 540-180 models – now benefit from enhanced remote management functionality through LiveLink.

Fleet managers can remotely adjust a range of machine settings including Auto Stop parameters, speed limit controls, IntelliSense activation, tyre pressure monitoring settings and remote PIN management.

The new functionality allows machine settings to be managed without visiting the machine, helping management teams improve operational practices, support site compliance and enhance machine security.

Tyre pressure monitoring information can also be viewed remotely, helping identify

Integration with JCB IntelliSense provides additional safety benefits. The AI-based system can alert operators to pedestrians in areas of risk, while near-miss events and video footage can be reviewed through LiveLink to support site safety management and incident analysis without needing to be present on site.

SMARTER DECISIONS LiveLink provides detailed information on machine operation including working time, idle time, fuel consumption and CO2 output.

Automated reports and flexible monitoring tools help business owners, fleet managers and site teams track machine performance across multiple assets and locations. By identifying underused equipment, excessive idle time and unnecessary fuel consumption, customers can improve working practices, lower operating costs and support preventative maintenance programmes.

LiveLink also provides fuel consumption and CO2 reporting, helping customers measure efficiency improvements and support wider sustainability objectives and contractual compliance.

The platform is also supported by the JCB Operator App, enabling operators to complete machine checks and helping ensure equipment remains safe, compliant and ready for work.

news

CASE Construction Equipment Announces New Authorised Dealer for Munster, Ireland for SAMCO Plant Sales. With the backing of the wider SAMCO Group’s engineering expertise and our long-standing experience supporting customers through our CASE IH business, we look forward to helping contractors, developers and construction professionals across Munster find the right machine for every application, backed by genuine CASE parts, expert aftersales service and dedicated technical support.”

CASE Construction Equipment has revealed SAMCO Plant Sales as its new authorised dealer for Munster, Ireland, further enhancing its presence in this key location.

Customers will have access to the full CASE Construction Equipment range, as well as comprehensive sales, genuine parts, expert aftersales service and dedicated technical support.

With more than 30 years of engineering and manufacturing expertise through the wider SAMCO Manufacturing Group, SAMCO Plant Sales has established a strong reputation for quality products, dependable service and long-term customer relationships. As an established CNH partner through its successful CASE IH agricultural dealership, the company brings extensive industry knowledge and customer-focused support to the construction equipment sector.

Valentina Versino, UK&ROI Business Director CASE Construction Equipment, said:

SAMCO Plant Sales will provide CASE customers across Munster with machinery, genuine parts, expert aftersales service and dedicated technical support.

“We are delighted to welcome SAMCO Plant Sales to the CASE Construction Equipment dealer network as our authorised dealer for Munster. With its already established relationship with CNH, SAMCO Plant Sales brings the experience, technical knowledge and customer focus that make

it an excellent partner for the CASE brand. We look forward to working together to provide customers across the region.”

Robert Shine, Managing Director, SAMCO Plant Sales, said: “Joining the CASE Construction Equipment dealer network marks an exciting new chapter

Customers throughout Munster will benefit from access to the complete CASE Construction Equipment range, supported by a knowledgeable local team committed to delivering reliable service and long-term customer support. Together, CASE Construction Equipment and SAMCO Plant Sales are focused on building lasting partnerships with contractors, developers and construction professionals across the region.

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recycling & waste management

PUTTING IN THE HARD YARDS: SUPPORTING IRELAND’S QUARRY AND RECYCLING SECTOR Since the start of the year, it’s been all hands-on deck for the team at QRS. We’ve simply been putting our heads down, grafting away, and doing our best to provide the steady back-up, machinery, and spare parts that keep our customers up and running day in, day out.

Over the past few months, we’ve had the privilege of supporting the quarry and recycling industry across the country with new machinery. It’s been rewarding to see equipment like the McCloskey J5 jaw crusher and R155 screeners, Terex highspeed shredders TBG 530, TBG630 and screening trommels TTS620, and Cedarapids cone crusher TG120 head out the gate and get right to work. We’re grateful for the ongoing trust our partners place in us to help keep their operations moving.

Seeing equipment working hard on site is always rewarding, but we know handovers

TG120 Cone crusher at Acheson & Glover processing plant

are only part of the story. Keeping machines earning their keep and avoiding downtime is what really counts. To help with that, we keep a healthy stock of everyday spare parts and wear consumables sitting on the shelves, ready when you need them.

Alongside our usual machinery lines, we also hold a strong selection of spare parts, large components and complete engines from trusted names like Cat, Scania, Volvo and Deutz. Whether you’re after a basic service kit or a complete engine set-up, our

TBG530 processing green waste in Co Donegal.

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recycling & waste management

TG120 cone crusher installation; QRS and CDE plant collaboration.

Pádraig O’Neill and George Cozier QRS service engineers, with the TG120 at Kilsaran plant

Mark King (King Bros), Darren Smyth (QRS) and Johnny King (King Bros).

engineering team is always on hand to offer a practical, no-nonsense backup service.

Looking ahead to the rest of the year, our focus stays firmly on the basics:

offering dependable kit, honest advice, and plenty of parts backup to keep Ireland’s crushing, screening, demolition and recycling industries moving.

If you ever need a hand with machinery, spare parts, or engines, drop us a line at info@qrs.ie – we’re always happy to have a chat.

Service Sells SALES - SPARES - SERVICE 10 Coolmaghry Road, Donaghmore, Dungannon BT70 3 HJ

info@qrs.ie

+442887767120

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recycling & waste management

Leading Voices to Take Centre Stage at ISWA World Congress infrastructure to municipal service delivery, workforce development and resource efficiency. Further keynote speakers and programme updates will be announced over the coming months as the congress builds towards its opening in November.

Janez Potocnik, former European Commissioner for the Environment and Co-Chair of the International Resource Panel, is set to headline this year’s ISWA World Congress in London. ISWA President James Law and UK Environment Minister Mary Creagh CBE MP will also be joining, bringing together prominent voices from the environmental and circular economy sectors for the event.

Sarah Poulter, Chief Executive of CIWM, said: “The transition to a more circular economy cannot be delivered by one country, one organisation or one sector acting alone. It demands collaboration between government, industry, academia and the wider sustainability community, with a willingness to share knowledge, innovation and practical experience across international borders.

The International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) and host organisation, the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), have unveiled the first detailed programme for the global event, which takes place at London’s QEII Centre in the heart of Westminster from 16th – 18th November 2026.

The congress will bring together policymakers, business leaders, academics and resource management professionals from more than 50 countries to help shape the future of the circular economy and tackle one of the defining environmental, economic and public health challenges of the coming decades. With global municipal solid waste generation projected to increase from 2.1 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050, delegates will explore how better resource and waste management can help protect health, the environment and economies while accelerating the transition to a more circular economy.

Reflecting the scale of that challenge, one of the opening keynote sessions, ‘2 Billion Tonnes and Rising: Waste or Resources?

Shared Vision or Fractured Viewpoints?’, will bring together international leaders to debate whether the circular economy can provide

Sarah Poulter.

a realistic pathway towards sustainable economic growth, the role of international collaboration, and how governments, businesses and communities should respond to growing resource pressures.

The congress will also bring together leading figures from government, business, academia and the wider sustainability community, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading forums for advancing resource management policy and practice.

The programme features more than 120 technical sessions covering circular economy, plastics, economics, municipal leadership, waste planning and service delivery, political commitment, human rights, and skills for a just transition. Sessions will explore topics ranging from implementation of the UN Plastics Treaty and financing circular economy

“That’s exactly what the ISWA World Congress is designed to achieve. By bringing together many of the world’s leading policymakers, practitioners and businesses, we can build partnerships, share solutions and help shape the policies and investment needed to protect health, the environment and our economies. We’re proud to welcome the global community to London and to unveil the programme for what promises to be a landmark congress.”

Proudly hosted by CIWM on behalf of ISWA, the congress marks the return of the organisation’s flagship event to the UK for the first time in more than three decades.

Expected to attract around 1,200 delegates from across the global resources and waste management sector, it provides a unique opportunity for professionals working across sustainability, manufacturing, local government, environmental policy, academia and the wider circular economy to exchange ideas, showcase innovation and help shape the future of resource management.

Mark Doherty Announced as Global Sales Director at Terex Washing Systems Terex® Washing Systems (TWS) has appointed Mark Doherty as its new Global Sales Director.

In this role, Mark will lead the global sales organisation for Terex Washing Systems, overseeing the brand’s commercial activities and working with customers and distributors across international markets.

Mark brings extensive experience in engineering, project sales and international commercial leadership.

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Holding a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, he has built a strong track-record across a number of industryleading organisations.

Commenting on the appointment, Paul Carolan, Business Line Director, Terex Washing Systems, said: “Mark brings a wealth of industry knowledge, commercial expertise and leadership experience to the role.

Having worked closely with customers, distributors and project partners throughout his career, he understands what

it takes to deliver successful outcomes in our industry.

“I am delighted to welcome Mark to this important leadership position and look forward to working with him as we build on the experience, knowledge and relationships that have been developed across the TWS business over many years.”

Mark Doherty added: “I am delighted to take on the role of Global Sales Director at Terex Washing Systems. The washing and recycling sectors continue to present significant opportunities, and I look

Mark Doherty.

forward to working with our customers and distributors around the world to help them maximise the performance and value of their operations.”

recycling & waste management

Ecotec Strengthens Global Sales Team to Drive Further Growth Following the introduction of its new brand identity at IFAT 2026 and the appointment of Christopher Pickhardt as Global Sales Director, Ecotec is undertaking a realignment of its global sales organisation. The company is a leader in wood processing, biomass and recycling equipment.

Over the past decade, Ecotec has evolved into an established player in the global waste, recycling and environmental equipment sectors, building a portfolio that spans shredders, screens, trommels, material handlers, metal separators and conveyors. Today, the brand holds a leading position in the UK, alongside a strong presence in North America, Australia and other key international markets.

Under the leadership of Christopher Pickhardt, the business is positioning its commercial structure to support continued expansion across international markets.

The strengthened team is designed to support Ecotec’s distribution network and help execute the brand’s growth strategy across both established and emerging markets.

Across Europe, Asia-Pacific and other international markets, Ecotec’s regional sales activities

Ronan Horisk.

are supported by experienced Regional Sales Managers.

Ronan Horisk is responsible for Benelux, France, Scandinavia and Asia-Pacific, supporting a diverse mix of established and developing markets. Nik McClelland leads sales activities across the UK and Ireland, one of Ecotec’s strongest and most established regions.

Mateusz Daniluk oversees Central, Southern and Eastern Europe, working closely with distributors and customers across a broad range of recycling and environmental applications.

Carlos Guillart.

PLANT & CIVIL CONSTRUCTION, QUARRY & RECYCLING MAGAZINE

Meanwhile, Carlos Guallart is responsible for Spain, Portugal and Latin America, supporting Ecotec’s continued growth across these established recycling markets in Southern Europe while developing opportunities across the broader Latin American region. North America remains a key market within Ecotec’s global growth strategy and is supported by a dedicated regional sales structure. Aaron Lang is responsible for the Eastern United States, while Barry

Mateusz Daniluk.

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McCarron oversees the Western United States and Canada.

Commenting on the structure, Christopher Pickhardt, explained: “Ecotec has established a strong presence in key markets around the world and built a portfolio that serves a broad range of waste and recycling applications.

This global sales structure provides the platform to support our next phase of growth, working closely with distributors and customers to strengthen our position and capitalise on new opportunities worldwide.”

Nik McClelland.

E X C E L L E N C E

Honouring the Past.

Building the Future.

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The service covered key footfall areas, as well as locations throughout the wider city centre.

The 2026 Fleadh demonstrated the importance of detailed preparation, responsive logistics and close co-ordination.

400 Bins, 1,818 Lifts: The Litter Bin Waste Operation Behind Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 McQuillan Environmental was appointed to deliver the litter bin waste management operation on behalf of Belfast City Council during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, supporting the city through an event that attracted an estimated 1.6 million visitors.

With attendance initially forecast at around 800,000, the scale of the operation required detailed planning, additional resources and the flexibility to respond to changing demand throughout the eight-day event.

After months of planning, roll-out began a few days before the start of the event, with approximately 400 bins labelled and deployed across Belfast in a variety of bin hubs, bin stations and bin points. The service covered key footfall areas including the City Hall, Royal Avenue, High Street, the Cathedral Quarter and Titanic Quarter, as well as locations throughout the wider city centre.

Around 50 McQuillan employees were involved in the operation, with teams providing coverage from approximately 5am to 9pm each day. Collection activity began as early as 4am to ensure key areas were serviced before the city became busy.

A key part of the operation was maintaining waste collections and segregation while navigating pedestrianised areas, restricted access and significant increases in footfall.

Two bin lorries operated each morning, with three pick-up vehicles operating throughout the day. In total, the team completed 1,818 bin lifts during the Fleadh.

The operation also extended beyond traditional waste collection. McQuillan Outdoor teams carried out pressure washing of key city-centre areas during the early hours, PLANT & CIVIL

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Around 50 McQuillan employees were involved in the operation.

before the city awoke, helping to prepare streets for the following day’s activities.

is being delivered with a commitment to achieving zero waste to landfill.

Close co-ordination with Belfast City Council was required throughout the event, with collection schedules and vehicle movements adapted to meet operational requirements and changing conditions across the city.

For McQuillan Environmental, the event has also provided valuable operational learning. The scale of the Fleadh provided an opportunity to review bin deployment, collection frequencies, vehicle movements, access arrangements and early-morning cleaning requirements under high-volume conditions.

Following the conclusion of the Fleadh Cheoil on 9th August, the operation continued with the dismantling and final clean-up taking place on 10th and 11th August. Teams removed the remaining bins and completed final collections to return the serviced areas to normal.

Final tonnage and recycling figures are currently being confirmed with Belfast City Council. However, the operation

The 2026 Fleadh demonstrated the importance of detailed preparation, responsive logistics and close co-ordination when delivering waste management services for a major city-centre event. The experience and learning gained will provide a strong operational foundation for next year’s event as Belfast aims to build on the success of 2026.

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compact equipment

THINKING BIG, WORKING COMPACT Why Compact Equipment is Playing a Central Role Across Construction and Recycling From city streets to crowded recycling yards, a new generation of compact machines is proving that when space is tight, expectations are high and every minute counts, smaller can often mean smarter.

The era of “bigger is always better” is being challenged.

Across construction sites, demolition projects, landscaping operations and recycling facilities, compact equipment is stepping out of the shadows and into the spotlight, delivering the power, precision and productivity that the sector requires.

Today’s compact excavators, skid steers, compact track loaders and mini loaders are no longer viewed simply as machines for smaller jobs. They are becoming the go-to choice for contractors and operators who need equipment that can work harder, move faster and adapt to an everchanging working environment.

is quietly delivering some of the most important work happening on the ground. A mini excavator squeezing between buildings on an urban development. A compact track loader preparing foundations where access is restricted. A wheel loader moving recycled materials around a busy processing yard. Compact equipment brings precision to projects where accuracy matters.

Operators can dig around existing services, manoeuvre through confined spaces and complete detailed finishing work with a level of control that larger machines often cannot match.

For contractors, that means fewer limitations. For customers, it means projects can be completed faster and with less disruption.

THE RECYCLING REVOLUTION Few industries demonstrate the value of compact equipment better than recycling.

POWER WHERE IT MATTERS

Modern recycling facilities are fast-moving environments where space, speed and flexibility are critical. Materials need to be sorted, moved and processed efficiently, often within confined working areas where every movement counts. Compact loaders and excavators are becoming increasingly important parts of these operations. Their manoeuvrability allows operators to work closer to stockpiles, navigate busy yards and respond quickly to changing demands.

Walk onto almost any busy construction site and there is a good chance a compact machine

Whether loading recycled aggregates, handling waste materials, clearing processing

Because modern job sites are changing. Space is tighter.

Deadlines are shorter. Labour is harder to find. Fuel and operating costs continue to rise.

Customers expect more. And environmental pressures are reshaping the way equipment is selected and used. In this demanding landscape, compact equipment is proving that agility is being increasingly valued.

areas or supporting demolition operations, compact machines are helping recycling businesses improve workflow while keeping operating costs under control.

The result is a shift in thinking: compact no longer means limited. It means adaptable.

Another reason behind the rise of compact equipment is versatility. The modern machine is no longer restricted to one job. With the right attachments, a compact excavator or loader can become a multi-purpose tool capable of taking on excavation, lifting, grading, sweeping, breaking, drilling and material handling applications.

This flexibility is especially valuable for smaller contractors, where owning equipment that can perform multiple tasks can make a significant difference to productivity and profitability.

A machine that spends less time waiting and more time working is a machine that earns its place in the fleet.

TECHNOLOGY IN A SMALLER PACKAGE Compact equipment may be smaller, but the technology driving it is anything but basic.

Manufacturers are introducing advanced hydraulic systems, improved fuel efficiency, smarter controls and enhanced operator comfort features that make today’s machines more productive and easier to operate.

Digital monitoring systems are helping owners track performance, manage

maintenance schedules and reduce downtime. Improved visibility, ergonomic controls and safety features are helping operators work with greater confidence and efficiency.

The compact machine of today is a very different proposition from previous generations.

BUILT FOR A CHANGING FUTURE The construction and recycling industries are under pressure to achieve more with less – less fuel, less waste, less downtime and less impact on the environment.

Compact equipment fits naturally into that future.

Its ability to travel easily, operate efficiently and complete a wide variety of tasks makes it an increasingly important part of modern fleets. For many businesses, the question is no longer whether compact equipment has a role to play, but how much more they can achieve by putting it at the heart of their operations.

Because sometimes the biggest difference on site comes from the smallest machine.

Compact equipment is not just filling a gap between hand tools and heavy machinery. It is redefining what productivity looks like, proving that when it comes to getting the job done, intelligent design, versatility and performance can deliver an impact far greater than size alone suggests.

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Bobcat Starts Production of New T650 Compact Track Loader proprietary Bob-Tach mounting system makes attachment changes quick and easy, while optional High-Flow hydraulics open the door to even more demanding applications.

A proven platform. More power. More capability. The new T650 is now rolling off the production line. Bobcat has started production of the new T650 compact track loader at its manufacturing plant in Dobris, Czech Republic. Combining the proven capabilities of Bobcat’s 600-frame M-Series platform with the latest Stage V engine technology, the new T650 is built to deliver the power, application-focused performance and uptime that demanding jobs require.

Powered by a reliable 2.4-litre Bobcat engine delivering 55 kW (74 HP), the T650 is fully Stage V compliant without the need for AdBlue. Its robust steel frame, efficient cooling system and vertical lift path make it ready for demanding applications, while the 1192 kg rated operating capacity provides plenty of muscle for truck loading, pallet handling and earthmoving.

Katinka Kincses, Bobcat Product Manager for loaders, commented: “The new T650 brings together

The machine also comes equipped with Machine IQ telematics as standard, providing operators and fleet managers with valuable machine data to help monitor performance, optimise utilisation and keep equipment working.

Bobcat T650 in the Dobris manufacturing plant.

everything operators expect from a Bobcat – toughness, power and agility – with a level of comfort and refinement that makes a real difference on the job. It’s a compact machine that packs a serious punch, with precise controls, excellent

visibility and fast cycle times to help operators get more done.”

Built To Work.

Ready For More The T650 is designed to take on a wide range of applications and work with Bobcat’s extensive portfolio of attachments. The

CNH Partners with Norcar CNH Construction has entered a strategic industrial co-operation agreement with Oy Norcar Ab. Oy Norcar Ab is a Finnish company renowned for manufacturing highquality compact loaders since 1998. Built on Finland’s west coast, Norcar’s machines deliver outstanding performance across a wide range of applications, both indoors and outdoors.

portfolios, reinforcing its existing line-up in the under-4-ton operating weight segment.

Scheduled for unveiling later this year and European dealer arrival in Q1 2027, the new models are designed for agility, ease of use, and transportability, offering practical solutions for navigating confined spaces with minimal ground disturbance compared to skid steer loaders or larger compact wheel loaders.

Through this partnership, products will be distributed under CNH’s CASE and New Holland Construction brands. Norcar’s compact and sub-compact wheel loaders will be integrated into CNH’s product

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From confined urban jobsites to demanding earthmoving applications, the new T650 is built around a simple Bobcat philosophy: more capability in a compact package.

“Norcar’s products integrate seamlessly into our brand portfolio, allowing us to meet customer needs in the smaller compact and sub-compact segments that our current line-up does not fully cover.

Norcar was selected as the ideal partner thanks to its complimentary product range, quality, and strong potential for production capacity expansion. This partnership further strengthens the positioning of the CASE and New Holland Construction brands within an attractive market niche,” stated Humayun Chishti, CNH Construction President.

Lotta Linden-Svarvar, CEO of Norcar, added: “This partnership with CNH Construction elevates Norcar’s global visibility, confirms the quality of our products, and opens the door to international recognition – all while preserving and strengthening the distinct identity of the Norcar brand.”

E X C E L L E N C E

Honouring the Past.

Building the Future.

Despite its compact footprint, the T650 offers impressive visibility and operator comfort.

Its forward-positioned cab and fully transparent door provide a clear, direct view of the attachment and work area, while powerful LED working lights help maintain productivity when the light starts to fade.

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compact equipment

DEVELON LAUNCHES NEW UPGRADED DX35Z-7 MINI EXCAVATOR

The DX35Z-7 on-site .

Develon has launched a new enhanced version of the company’s DX35Z-7 4 tonne Stage V compliant mini excavator.

The Develon DW01 18.4 kW (25 HP) diesel engine replaces the previous D17 engine in the upgraded DX35Z-7, providing better performance for heavy duty applications, with higher power and torque than engines in other machines of this size, giving hours of lower cost, efficient and effective operation. The zero tail swing design of the DX35Z-7 makes it ideal for work in confined spaces on construction, demolition, landscaping and utility projects.

Another change in the DX35Z-7 is in the position of the boom swing point, which has been moved 75 mm to the right, in combination with a change in the boom swing angle to 60 to both the left and right. o

This increases the operator’s visual range and visibility from the front of the cab which has been further optimised by a change in the position of the radio and an increase in the wiper blade angle from 60 to 89 . Boom swing control has also been moved from the pedal to the thumbwheel control on the joystick. o

ENHANCED OPERATOR COMFORT Accessibility to the cab has been made easier with an increase in the stand tilting angle and by enlarging the width of the cab entrance from 363 to 404 mm. Inside the cab, the operator is equipped with a new orange seat belt and greater comfort with a reduction of the heat from the seat and improved engine heat dissipation through a change from a sucker type cooling system to a blower type set-up.

The DX35Z-7 now offers more tie down points, making it easier to load and fasten the machine during transportation. For increased safety and ease of operation, the number of lights has also been increased on the outside of the cab.

EASIER MAINTENANCE Other enhancements on the DX35Z7 include better maintenance through increased accessibility to the hydraulic oil filling point, including the addition of a new retractable cover. Battery maintenance has also been upgraded with the addition of a new battery jump-start feature.

The DX35Z-7 offers a high auxiliary flow of 74 l/min to enhance work with attachments and an additional 100 kg counterweight ensures excellent machine balance and stability when working.

On the intake system, efficiency has been increased by using a two-stage air cleaner filter (inner and outer), with a new clip system that simplifies changing the filters. The excavator also features a new monitoring and alarm system that notifies operators when filter changes are required. A new double-insulator system further enhances operator comfort by reducing engine exhaust noise.

A larger ½-inch arm pipe (up from 3/8 inch) improves arm responsiveness, increasing arm-in speed by 3% and arm-out speed by 15%.

DEVELON FLEET MANAGEMENT TELEMATICS By collecting data from sensors on the DX35Z-7, the latest version of the Develon Fleet Management system provides a telematics management system for the machine.

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A NEW GENERATION OF COMPACT EXCAVATORS “They’re engineered to achieve big results across a wide range of jobsites thanks to additional engine power, improved digging, lifting and swing performance.” – Xavier Beaud (Head of Technology, Compact Business Unit at Volvo CE.) For many years, contractors chose compact excavators for their ability to operate in areas where larger excavators couldn’t.

Their small size makes them valuable on construction sites and urban developments where space is limited and where access and working space are restricted. The machine’s small size was the whole appeal.

However, that is no longer enough, as contractors are now increasingly looking for smaller excavators with strong digging and lifting performance that operate a wider selection of attachments and provide the operator with the same technology and comfort found in larger machines.

This shift is changing the role of the compact excavator on the modern construction site.

Rather than being viewed as a machine for light or specialised work, it is becoming an increasingly versatile part of the fleet. A compact excavator may be required to dig trenches, grade surfaces, handle materials, operate hydraulic attachments and work

around existing buildings or infrastructure, often within the same project.

Rather than being viewed as the machine that can fit into those awkward spaces, it’s now the machine that can dig trenches, grade surfaces, handle materials, operate hydraulic attachments, whilst being able to work around existing buildings, often within the same project. It has become one of the most versatile machines of the fleet.

Volvo CE has built for exactly that shift, by launching three new generation compact excavator models: EC65F, EW65F and the ECR90F. Replacing the previous EC60, EW60 and ECR88 models, the latest machines have been developed to bring more power, better hydraulic performance, greater attachment capability and a redesigned operator cab.

Together, they demonstrate how compact equipment is becoming capable of carrying out a much broader range of work.

MORE CAPABILITY WITHIN A COMPACT FOOTPRINT Limited space can make it difficult to reposition a machine or bring several pieces of equipment onto the same site.

Contractors therefore require excavators that

The new six-tonne Volvo EC65F delivers improved digging, lifting and swing performance within a compact footprint.

can remain within a relatively small working footprint while still providing the performance needed to complete demanding tasks.

The EC65F, EW65F and ECR90F approach this requirement in different ways. The EC65F provides the stability and versatility of a tracked crawler excavator. The EW65F combines compact excavator performance with the mobility of a wheeled undercarriage.

The ECR90F provides increased digging and lifting capability within a short-swing design.

Although each of these machines are suited to different working conditions, all three models have been designed to allow operators to achieve greater productivity without moving into a larger machine class.

EC65F: VERSATILITY ACROSS THE JOB SITE The Volvo EC65 is a 6-tonne class compact excavator designed to achieve big results.

Featuring a range of performance upgrades, including 4% more engine power, improved swing performance and 9% increase in boom lifting force, this Volvo Compact Excavator is ready to deliver across utilities, building, agriculture, landscaping and more.

These improvements matter as compact excavators are rarely used for just digging.

Operators may be required to lift pipes, move materials, shape surfaces or work with attachments throughout the day.

With the increased lifting and swing performance, this allows the machine to complete these tasks more confidently while retaining the manoeuvrability expected from a compact excavator.

For contractors working across several types of project, this combination creates a flexible machine that can move between excavation, grading, lifting and attachment-based work without relying on several separate pieces of equipment.

EW65F: MOBILITY BETWEEN WORKING AREAS The new Volvo EW65F wheeled excavator combines compact dimensions with the mobility to travel efficiently between working areas.

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For jobs where a compact wheeled excavator is the optimal choice, the EW65 is ready to deliver big results. Featuring a range of

compact equipment

A wide range of compatible attachments allows the Volvo EW65F to complete digging, lifting and material-handling tasks

performance upgrades, including 5.8% more engine power, improved swing performance and 9% more boom lifting force, making it ideal across utilities, building, agriculture, landscaping, forestry and more.

The EW65F combines the digging and attachment capability of a compact excavator with the mobility of a wheeled undercarriage, which makes it a natural fit for utility installation, road maintenance, local authority work, landscaping and any project spread across several nearby locations.

It eliminates the need for a flatbed truck or trailer between adjacent worksites by reaching travel speeds of up to 30 km/h. Four-wheel drive and front axle locking support mobility and stability, allowing the operator to travel between locations and begin working without any unnecessary delays.

Operators can choose between parking, travel and work modes depending on the task. Travel mode manages engine speed through the travel pedal to support lower fuel consumption and noise, while work mode provides full hydraulic power for excavation and attachment use.

ECR90F: LARGER-MACHINE PERFORMANCE IN RESTRICTED SPACES The ECR90F is the largest of the three new models and represents a significant development in Volvo’s shortswing compact excavator range.

This modern, productive and reliable machine delivers the sort of capabilities more commonly found in a 10-tonne+ machine, wrapped up in a compact 9-tonne short swing excavator.

With 28% more engine power, 15% more pump torque, 7% more tractive force and increased digging and lifting performance, the ECR90 delivers high productivity and outstanding results across general construction, utilities, landscaping and more.

The operator experience has also been taken to new heights with an 30% larger cab, a new 8” HD intuitive touch screen and enhanced controls, while uptime is given a boost thanks to easier servicing and longer service intervals.

These improvements allow the excavator to continue performing effectively when several hydraulic movements are being combined or when heavier attachments

are in use. This is particularly valuable during demanding excavation, material handling or site preparation work where maintaining hydraulic performance can have a direct impact on cycle times.

Despite the increase in capability, the ECR90F retains a compact short-swing design. Its minimal tail swing and stable undercarriage allow it to work efficiently in confined environments, making it particularly relevant for restricted job sites.

IMPROVING THE OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT As compact excavators take on a greater share of work, operator comfort is becoming increasingly important.

Operators can spend a full working day inside these machines and therefore, the controls, visibility and overall cab layout can have a direct impact on both productivity and safety.

All three of these new models include an eight-inch high-definition touchscreen display based on the technology used in Volvo’s larger excavators.

Through the display, operators can access attachment presets, camera

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compact equipment and ability to operate in restricted environments. However, contractors now expect them to provide significantly more than a small working footprint.

views, service interval information and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity.

The ECR90F receives the largest operator environment upgrade, with a cab that is 30% larger than the previous model.

The additional legroom, wider entrance and increased storage provide the space and comfort that would normally be associated with a larger excavator.

Increased engine power, stronger digging and lifting performance, higher hydraulic flow and improved attachment integration allow these machines to complete work that may previously have required larger or more specialised equipment.

DESIGNED AROUND UPTIME Performance is only valuable when the machine is available to work. For contractors, downtime can lead to delayed projects, additional labour costs and disruption across the wider site.

Wide opening engine hoods provide ground level access to grouped service points and filters, making regular checks easier to complete. Hydraulic return filter replacement intervals have been extended to 1,500 hours, while diesel particulate filter cleaning is required every 8,000 hours.

The machines also benefit from larger fuel tanks, reducing the number of stops required for refuelling during the working day.

Updated CareTrack telematics allow machine owners to access information relating to location, operating hours and servicing. When combined with Volvo ActiveCare, machine data can be monitored to identify developing issues and highlight

The EC65F provides a versatile tracked solution for a broad range of construction and utility applications. The EW65F adds the ability to travel efficiently between working areas, while the ECR90F combines short-swing manoeuvrability with performance more commonly associated with a larger excavator.

The EW65F’s dozer blade supports grading, levelling and site preparation.

preventative maintenance requirements before they lead to unplanned downtime.

This type of connected support reflects a wider change in equipment management.

Contractors are increasingly looking beyond the initial machine purchase and considering the full cost of ownership, including servicing, fuel use, utilisation and long term reliability.

THE FUTURE OF COMPACT EQUIPMENT The EC65F, EW65F and ECR90F demonstrate how the definition of a compact excavator is changing.

Compact machines will continue to be valued for their manoeuvrability

Together, the three new models represent a move towards compact equipment that is more adaptable, connected and capable of completing a wider range of work.

As Ireland’s authorised distributor for Volvo Construction Equipment, Pat O’Donnell & Co. supports customers with machine selection, attachments, parts and nationwide aftersales expertise.

Find out more about Volvo’s new generation of compact excavators by visiting www.patodonnell.com or contact us today at info@patodonnell.com

The short-swing Volvo ECR90F delivers increased power and productivity while remaining suited to restricted worksites.

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compact equipment

BOBCAT T86 COMPACT TRACK LOADER: NON-STOP OPERATION ON ROADWORKS SITES A new Bobcat T86 compact track loader has become a staple at Gambara Asfalti’s roadworks sites, where it is used continuously for site preparation and material handling.

Based in the Brescia area of Italy and specialising in roadworks, paving, yard construction, kerbing and direct asphalt production for forty years, Gambara Asfalti SpA operates primarily in the provinces of Brescia, Cremona, Mantua, Parma and Piacenza. The company has recently added the Bobcat T86 compact track loader as part of its fleet, selecting it to handle all preliminary site phases.

A prime example is a roadworks project in Dello (Brescia), where the T86 played a pivotal role in preparing the site for a major local company, ensuring precision and operational continuity ahead of the subsequent paving stages.

Thanks to its high manoeuvrability and engine power, the T86 enabled the precise removal of the entire topsoil layer, effectively eliminating irregularities and debris while ensuring a uniform base ready for the next steps of the project.

It handled not only removal but also the spreading and levelling of stabilised base material; the T86 distributed the material evenly, compacting it progressively to create a smooth, stable final surface.

Every movement of the loader combined power and precision, confirming the T86 as a valuable ally for tackling demanding tasks with extreme efficiency.

The T86 has proven to be an indispensable tool for jobs where power, precision, and reliability must go hand in hand.

BOBCAT T86 LOADER: IDEAL FOR ROADWORKS The Bobcat R-Series T86 compact track loader represents the pinnacle of Bobcat’s technological evolution in its class. It stands out for delivering the highest engine and hydraulic power the company has ever achieved – qualities that make it particularly well-suited for the demanding tasks typical of road construction sites, where efficiency, versatility and consistent performance are essential.

At the heart of the machine lies the proven 3.4-litre Bobcat Stage V engine, capable of delivering 78 kW (105 HP).

This unit ensures smooth, reliable power delivery that complies with emission regulations, while simultaneously offering low fuel consumption and high productivity, even during continuous operation.

From left, Majkol Fornari (Site Manager, Gambara Asfalti) and Attilio Zanon (Sales Representative, Zanon & Ormac).

One of the T86’s key strengths is the great flexibility of its hydraulic system, which easily adapts to various attachments and tasks. Operators can choose from three auxiliary flow levels: 87 l/min for loading, hauling or low-demand attachments; 138 l/min in High Flow mode for more demanding attachments; and the Bobcatexclusive Super Flow, which reaches 159 l/ min for the most rigorous applications.

Majkol Fornari, Site Manager at Gambara Asfalti, states: “We chose to purchase the T86 compact track loader because we consider it the flagship of the Bobcat range. It is an extremely powerful machine that is making many of our tasks simpler and faster.

“We use it every day across all our sites - primarily with a bucket for ground preparation, ranging from removing irregularities to surface levelling, but also with forks for handling kerbs, pipes and other

The new Bobcat T86 compact track loader has become a staple at Gambara Asfalti’s roadworks sites.

site materials. The machine has proved to be powerful and capable of meeting the most complex demands of our work. Thanks to this performance, we are considering purchasing a second T86 and a wheeled loader, as well as new Bobcat attachments like the planer and trencher, to further expand our operational capabilities on site.”

GAMBARA ASFALTI AND ZANON & ORMAC – A SOLID PARTNERSHIP Operational satisfaction is matched by satisfaction with the business relationship, as highlighted by Tommaso Brognoli, Director of Gambara Asfalti: “We are thoroughly pleased with the purchase of the Bobcat T86 loader, supplied by the dealer, Zanon, with whom we have built a relationship based on deep trust. The availability, rapid response times and reliability Zanon demonstrates in its after-sales service are of fundamental value to us. We know we can always count on them as a serious and competent partner.”

Zanon & Ormac operates through five locations. Maintenance and repair workshops are located in Bolzano, Trento and Bergamo, alongside showrooms, spare parts warehouses, offices and dedicated training areas. The historic site in Torbole Casaglia (Brescia) is dedicated to workshop operations, while the administrative headquarters is located in Rodengo Saiano (Brescia). To ensure rapid, highly qualified aftersales service, the company also operates mobile workshops that provide specialised assistance directly on-site.

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compact equipment

Equipment ready for auction at Euro Auctions.

COMPACT EQUIPMENT – BUYING A USED MINI DIGGER

BY CATHAL DOHERTY, TERRITORY MANAGER, REPUBLIC OF IRELAND, EURO AUCTIONS Buying a used compact digger can be a cost-effective investment, as modern mini excavators are built to last, but not every machine on the market represents good value. The good news is that with a careful inspection and a little knowledge, it’s possible to find a reliable machine that will provide years of productive service.

Drawing on years of experience inspecting and valuing construction equipment, Cathal Doherty, Territory Manager for the Republic of Ireland at Euro Auctions, shares 10 essential checks every buyer should make before investing in a used mini digger.

1. LOOK BEYOND THE HOURS The number of hours on the clock is important, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. A five-year-old machine with higher hours that has been owned by one careful operator and serviced regularly may be in far better condition than a lower-hour machine that has been poorly maintained.

Ex-rental machines often have several operators but usually benefit from scheduled servicing throughout their working lives. Understanding where and how a machine has been used is just as important as the hour meter.

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2. CHECK THE PINS, BUSHES AND SLEW RING Wear in the pivot points is inevitable, but excessive movement can be expensive to repair. Operate the machine slowly with the bucket pressed against the ground.

Watch carefully for movement around the boom base, bucket linkage and slew ring.

Some play is acceptable on older machines, but excessive wear could indicate costly repairs ahead. Also look for signs that the pins and bushes have been regularly greased.

3. INSPECT THE STRUCTURE CAREFULLY Walk around the machine and look for dents, cracks, bent panels or signs of structural damage. Extend the boom halfway and place the bucket flat on level ground. Standing in front of the machine, check that everything sits square. Any twisting in the boom or dipper arm could indicate previous damage.

Heavy stone chipping around the cab often suggests the machine has spent time operating a hydraulic breaker, while badly dented belly plates underneath usually indicate a hard working life.

4. EXAMINE THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM Hydraulics are the heart of any excavator.

Extend the cylinders and inspect the chrome rods for scratches, pitting or damage that could quickly destroy seals.

Check for hydraulic oil leaks around hoses, valves and pumps. Replacing hoses is relatively inexpensive, but damaged pumps, metal pipes and hydraulic components can become costly repairs.

5. DOES THE HOUR METER MATCH THE MACHINE? The overall condition should match the hours displayed. If a machine showing low hours has heavily worn controls, pedals and seat upholstery, ask questions.

Service stickers on filters can often confirm previous service intervals, while manufacturers or dealers may also have service records available.

6. CHECK THE BUCKETS AND ATTACHMENTS Attachments can represent significant value. Does the machine include grading, digging and ditching buckets?

Buying these separately can add thousands of pounds to your costs.

compact equipment Inspect bucket teeth and cutting edges for wear and check whether the machine has auxiliary hydraulic lines if you plan to use breakers, augers or grabs.

7. CONSIDER PARTS AND DEALER SUPPORT Before committing to any make or model, research the availability of parts and local dealer support. Most replacement parts can be ordered quickly, but if your machine breaks down you’ll want access to technicians who know the product and can minimise downtime. Buying a well-supported brand often makes ownership easier over the long-term.

8. DON’T IGNORE THE TRACKS Tracks are one of the most expensive wear items on a mini digger. Inspect the rubber or steel tracks for damage and wear, then examine the sprockets, rollers and idlers.

Look for uneven wear, collapsed rollers and stretched track chains. Worn undercarriage components can significantly affect the value of the machine and should be reflected in the purchase price.

9. KNOW WHAT IT’S WORTH Mini excavators hold their value exceptionally well, particularly popular

models from leading manufacturers. Pricing depends on far more than age and hours.

Overall condition, maintenance history, attachments, specification and current market demand all influence value.

Comparing similar machines before buying helps ensure you’re paying a fair price.

10. ALWAYS TEST THE MACHINE Never buy a machine without seeing it run whenever possible. Start the engine from cold and allow it to reach operating temperature. Listen for unusual noises, excessive vibration or smoke. Operate every hydraulic function, including the boom, dipper, bucket, blade and slew.

Drive forwards and backwards, turn both directions and make several simulated digging cycles. Check that all gauges, warning lights, lights, wipers and, where fitted, the heater and air conditioning operate correctly. If you cannot attend the LIVE sale, we can help you, with photography and videos of machines you are interested in bidding on.

Buying at Auction One of the advantages of buying through a professional machinery auction is the opportunity to compare multiple machines side by side.

Watching each mini digger being driven through the auction ring allows buyers to assess engine performance, hydraulic operation, exhaust emissions and overall presentation before bidding.

Experienced auction staff can also answer questions about specifications, attachments and market values, helping buyers make informed decisions.

Take Your Time Buying a used mini digger is a significant investment. A thorough inspection may take a little longer, but it can save thousands of pounds in unexpected repairs later.

By checking the machine’s history, condition, hydraulics, undercarriage and overall operation, you’ll greatly improve your chances of buying a reliable excavator that delivers years of productive service.

Cathal Doherty, Territory Manager – Ireland 00353 8621 761 48 cdoherty@euroauctions.com www.euroauctions.com

Cathal is the Territory Manager, Republic of Ireland of Euro Auctions

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transitioning to net zero

THE ROUTE TO NET ZERO STARTS WITH COSTSAVING TECH Construction has always been a balancing act, but for smaller firms, the pressures feel heavier than ever.

Rising material prices, soaring fuel costs and a shortage of skilled labour leave many focused on survival rather than sustainability.

Here, Danielle Barker, Strategic Accounts Manager at SITECH UK & Ireland, explores how the same technologies that help keep projects on schedule and costs under control can also deliver meaningful environmental gains.

EFFICIENCY THAT PAYS OFF Sustainability is often framed as the domain of large infrastructure schemes with dedicated teams to measure and report on carbon savings. Increasingly, though, clients across the board are asking contractors to demonstrate progress in reducing emissions and improving efficiency. For smaller firms, this can feel like a barrier. Yet the principle is straightforward; when you save time and money by working more precisely, the environmental benefits follow naturally.

Take fuel, for example. A Trimble® study showed that horizontal steering

Projects can be kept on schedule.

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control on a compactor can cut carbon output by 27% and fuel use by 26%.

For a contractor, those numbers mean more than an environmental metric; they represent real, measurable savings on the fuel bill. Precision reduces wasted passes, idling, and overdigging. It also limits the need for lorries hauling in replacement stone or carting away excess soil, easing congestion and emissions well beyond the site boundary.

Machine control is central to this shift.

By guiding equipment to work exactly to design, it helps contractors cut unnecessary machine hours and reduce wasted movements. The result is greater efficiency, lower fuel use and fewer emissions; all achieved without the need for radical changes to existing practices.

REDUCING WASTE AND REWORK Rework has long been one of the hidden drains on construction profitability. Every time material is moved unnecessarily or a surface is corrected, both time and resources are lost. Machine control addresses this by ensuring equipment follows design models with accuracy, reducing rework by up to 50%. For firms working to tight margins, that accuracy is key to staying competitive and cutting carbon.

WHEN YOU CUT FUEL, REWORK AND ENGINEERING COSTS, YOU’RE AUTOMATICALLY CUTTING CARBON. FOR SMALLER FIRMS ADOPTING MACHINE CONTROL, SUSTAINABILITY BECOMES A HAPPY ACCIDENT.

transitioning to net zero Digital workflows extend these benefits even further. Platforms such as Trimble® WorksOS give contractors access to real-time data, enabling them to track progress against design, manage deliveries more precisely and make decisions based on live site information rather than surveys that quickly become out of date. For smaller businesses, this clarity reduces risk and makes it easier to keep projects within budget, while ensuring that machinery, materials, and people are deployed where they deliver the most value.

While most small businesses may not be motivated to adopt digital tools for environmental reasons, they are often motivated by cost. When you cut fuel, rework and engineering costs, you’re automatically cutting carbon. For smaller firms adopting machine control, sustainability becomes a happy accident.

LOWERING THE BARRIERS In the past, many smaller contractors saw machine control as out of reach.

The technology was too expensive, too complex, and too geared towards major projects. That perception is shifting.

Systems are now designed with operators in mind, offering intuitive controls, builtin tutorials and remote support when needed. Training is fully supported, meaning teams can start seeing benefits quickly.

Affordability is also improving. SITECH UK & Ireland’s subscription and rental models remove the need for heavy upfront investment, opening the door for businesses with only a few machines. This

Trimble WorksManager.

flexibility makes it possible for firms of any size to access the same efficiency gains once reserved for large-scale projects.

SMALL STEPS, BIG IMPACT The path to net zero can seem daunting, particularly for firms already stretched by everyday challenges. Yet, many of the steps that lead towards lower-carbon delivery align closely with the commercial realities of running a successful business.

Small changes, like reducing rework, managing fuel use and working with greater precision, add up to significant impact.

Machine control provides a practical entry point. By embracing tools that cut costs first and carbon as a byproduct, smaller contractors can strengthen their bottom line and contribute to a more sustainable construction sector. The shift doesn’t require extensive changes; just smarter, more efficient ways of working that benefit both the business and the environment.

For more information on the machine control technology available through SITECH UK & Ireland, visit: www. sitechukandireland.com/en-gb/products.

The JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, now in its final stages, will support the site’s connection to the National Grid.

Machine control technology has a significant number of benefits

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transitioning to net zero

HUBEXO UKI RECORDS FOURTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF VERIFIED CARBON NEUTRALITY Hubexo UKI has once again achieved independently verified Carbon Neutral status, marking its fourth consecutive year of recognition.

This achievement reflects not only the accuracy and transparency of the carbon reporting by Hubexo UKI, but also its commitment to meaningful emissions reduction and long-term decarbonisation.

The carbon neutrality verification covers all UK operations for 2025 across Scope 1, 2 and material Scope 3 emissions. The thirdparty assessors conducted a two-stage verification process, returning a 0% QA variance rate, confirming a high-level of data integrity, supported by robust, auditable evidence.

DELIVERING CARBON NEUTRALITY AND BEYOND Following verification of its emissions inventory, Hubexo retired 896 tonnes of CO2e through independently verified Gold Standard carbon credits linked to renewable energy projects. The achievement extends beyond offsetting alone and is underpinned by operational changes. With the future in mind, NBS relocated its Newcastle headquarters to a modern BREEAM excellent-rated, fully electric office powered by 100% renewable electricity, projected to save approximately 60 tonnes of carbon per year, with the carbon reduction benefits of this switch being enabled from 2026 onwards.

These actions support Hubexo’s broader objective of reducing emissions at source and lowering reliance on offsetting over time.

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Although the business grew during the reporting period, emissions intensity fell from 13.14 tCO2e per £m revenue in 2024 to 11.65 tCO2e per £m revenue in 2025, an indicator that carbon emissions are becoming decoupled from business growth.

Alongside verified offsetting activities, Hubexo has funded planting 800 native UK trees local to its offices through environmental partner Carma Earth. The initiative supports biodiversity enhancement, community green spaces and programmes that help military veterans access nature-based therapy and employment pathways.

BUILDING TOWARDS NET ZERO This milestone sits within a broader decarbonisation journey.

Hubexo operates within a groupwide climate framework with targets to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030 and reach Net Zero by 2045, in line with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for the IT and software sector.

Plans for 2026 include eliminating fossil fuel heating, deepening supplier engagement through new ESG technology and transitioning supply chain reporting from spend-based to activity-based methodologies.

Dr Lee Jones, Head of Sustainability, Hubexo UKI, said: “Achieving independently verified

carbon neutrality under ISO 14068 reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability and climate action, and whilst we acknowledge that this is merely a stepping stone to our long-term commitments, it gives our customers, partners and colleagues confidence that our environmental claims are backed by solid data and independent scrutiny.

“Sustainability is about more than carbon accounting alone. We’re reducing emissions at source, investing in our communities and working toward a clear net zero pathway. Together, we’re building a more sustainable future for the construction sector, and that’s something the whole team can be proud of.”

www.plantandcivilengineer.com

transitioning to net zero

BY ACHIEVING 70% OF ITS OWN ‘NET ZERO TARGET’ ACE PLANT IS NOW HELPING OPERATORS FOLLOW THE SAME PATH generated through demolition, quarrying, cutting and earthmoving remains one of the industry’s most significant environmental and occupational health challenges. ACE Plant has invested heavily in advanced dust suppression systems and specialist technologies that help contractors control airborne particles more effectively, creating safer working environments while helping businesses meet environmental responsibilities and increasingly stringent regulatory requirements.

The plant hire and civils sectors have a major role to play in reducing global emissions, and the transition towards a lower-carbon industry. This will be critical if the UK is to achieve its 2040 net zero ambitions. One of the most effective ways to make progress is by improving the way plant, machinery and equipment are selected, managed and operated on-site.

ACE Plant has reached a significant sustainability milestone, with 70% of its fleet now meeting the company’s own net zero objectives, well ahead of the UK’s 2040 target. Having transformed its own business through investment, innovation and smarter fleet management, the sustainable plant hire specialist is now using that experience to help contractors and operators reduce emissions, improve ESG performance and deliver more sustainable construction projects.

Neil Hedley, Operations Manager of ACE Plant, commented: “We recognised early that if we wanted to support customers on their own sustainability journey, we first had to demonstrate what could be achieved ourselves. Reaching 70% of our net zero target is an important milestone, but more importantly it gives us the practical experience to help contractors make meaningful progress towards their own environmental goals.”

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations are becoming increasingly influential across the construction sector.

Major contractors are now expected to demonstrate how projects minimise environmental impact, improve workforce welfare and operate responsibly. Increasingly, these requirements are embedded within procurement strategies and tender processes, making a robust ESG strategy essential for companies wishing to remain competitive.

LOWER-EMISSION EQUIPMENT One of the biggest contributors to ACE Plant’s own carbon reduction programme has been the continual investment in lower-emission equipment. The company’s expanding fleet includes electric, solar-powered, hybrid and HVO-compatible machines, enabling customers to replace conventional

Neil Hedley.

diesel-powered equipment with cleaner alternatives. Electric machinery delivers zero exhaust emissions at the point of use while significantly reducing noise levels, making it particularly suited to projects in urban environments, residential developments and environmentally sensitive locations. For contractors measuring carbon performance, these equipment choices provide immediate and measurable reductions in emissions.

ACE Plant has also demonstrated that sustainability is not simply about buying new machinery. Extending the working life of equipment through refurbishment, upgrades and innovative engineering has become another key part of its own net zero strategy.

By improving utilisation, increasing efficiency and reducing unnecessary equipment replacement, the business has lowered embodied carbon, reduced manufacturing demand and minimised waste. This circular approach also enables contractors to improve resource efficiency, maximise fleet value and strengthen their own ESG performance.

Improving environmental performance on site extends beyond emissions alone. Dust

The social element of ESG has become equally important, with greater emphasis being placed on workforce health and wellbeing.

Whole-body vibration (WBV), together with prolonged exposure to respirable dust, continues to present significant risks across the construction sector. Drawing on its own operational experience, ACE Plant helps customers select equipment and technologies that reduce these risks, supporting compliance while improving operator welfare and creating safer working environments.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PLANT HIRE Neil Hedley believes plant hire companies have an increasingly important role to play in helping the wider construction industry meet its sustainability commitments.

“Plant hire is no longer just about supplying equipment,” he explained. “Now it’s about helping contractors make better decisions that improve environmental performance, protect their workforce and reduce operating costs. Every cleaner machine, every refurbished asset and every innovation that improves efficiency contributes towards more sustainable construction.”

“With the ACE Plant fleet already achieving its own net zero targets, placing us well ahead of the 2040 deadline, that gives us confidence that the approach works, and it allows us to share that knowledge with our customers. Construction has a significant role to play in achieving net zero, and we’re committed to helping contractors accelerate their own journey by providing practical solutions that deliver real environmental, operational and commercial benefits.”

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plant sales Specialist finance for the purchase of new and second hand assets Call us on 028 9517 0414 or visit www.closecommercialfinance.com Close Brothers Commercial Finance is a trading style of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is registered in England and Wales (Company No. 00195626) and it’s registered office is 10 Crown Place, London, United Kingdom EC2A 4FT.

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new JLG 450AJ sold to Mac Fuels & General Supplies by WAC McCandless.

A New DX10z for Champion Patios & Driveways sold by Northern Excavators.

Gerry Murphy & his son Riley collecting their new Komatsu PC26MR-5 from WAC McCandless.

Four new Develon mini excavators supplied to Linty Hire by Northern Excavators.

New Zoomlion ZMP04 delivered to CP Hire, Belfast.

New Dieci Apollo 25.6 delivered to Down Asphalt in Ballynahinch by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

A new Dynapac CC1200VI sold to Killowen Contracts by WAC McCandless.

Ciaran Carvill of WAC McCandless hands over a new Komatsu PC138US-11 and PC210LC-11 to Gary and Ronan Kelly of Kelly Bros Building Contractors.

New Giant G2700 Tele HD+ supplied to Kelly Environmental by Ballyward Plant Services.

A new JLG 600AJ & ES1932 sold to Carey’s Plant & Tool Hire by WAC McCandless.

New Dieci Agri Star 37.7 delivered to Alan McMurray in Dungiven by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

New Zoomlion ZMP04 mast lift delivered to CA Hire, Virginia, Co. Cavan.

New Develon Dl480-7 sold to Tracey Concrete by Northern Excavators.

A new Komatsu PW138MR-11E0 sold to Phace Contracts by WAC McCandless.

PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER

A new Atlas Copco PAS100MF250 sold to HJB Plant Hire by WAC McCandless.

New Develon Dx140Lcr Sold to D&S Contracts by Northern Excavators.

New CX35D supplied by Cowan Bros to Paul Smyth, Dungiven.

A new Takeuchi TB325R delivered to S. Hamilton in Katesbridge by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

plant sales Unlock the value of your existing assets to support cash flow Call us on 028 9517 0414 or visit www.closecommercialfinance.com Close Brothers Commercial Finance is a trading style of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is registered in England and Wales (Company No. 00195626) and it’s registered office is 10 Crown Place, London, United Kingdom EC2A 4FT.

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New Develon DX160 HT sold to D.Gillanders Ltd by Northern Excavators.

New CX210Es supplied by Cowan Bros to J Corr Contracts Ltd, Enniskillen.

William Crother of Glenview Contracts, and his childern taking delivery of a new Takeuchi TB290-2 from Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

New Zoomlion ZS0607ACLI Scissors Lift and ZMP 04 Mast lift recently delivered to Central Plant Hire, Birr Co Offaly.

CP Hire collecting the first of two new JLG 800AJ boom lifts from WAC McCandless.

New Giant G1200 Tele supplied to W Linton

by Ballyward Plant Services.

New CX130E supplied by Cowan Bros to JA Lyttle & Son, Larne.

New Engcon EC214S tiltrotator system supplied to Finning by Ballyward Plant Services.

Peter Ward collecting his new Develon DX10z-7 from Ballyward Plant Services.

One of two new JLG 1350SJP boom lifts sold to Balloo Hire by WAC McCandless.

New CX85E supplied by Cowan Bros to Michael O’Neill, Donemana.

Two new Develon DX55s supplied to CP Hire

by Northern Excavators.

New Dieci Apollo 26.6 delivered to McCann Brothers in Coalisland by Alan MIlne Tractors Newry.

New Giant G3500Z supplied to D McMurran

by Ballyward Plant Services.

New Develon DX63 supplied to HP Hire by Northern Excavators.

New Zoomlion ZS1012ACLI Battery Scisdors Lift recently supplied to Reilly Hire, Ballyconnell. Co Cavan.

A new Develon DX27z-7k for Ryan McCoy, from Ballyward Plant Services.

New Engcon EC214S tiltrotator system supplied to Neville Rodgers by Ballyward Plant Services.

New Dx27z sold to CML Contracts by Northern Excavators Ltd.

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plant sales Spread the cost of new assets over a fixed period with hire purchase Call us on 028 9517 0414 or visit www.closecommercialfinance.com Close Brothers Commercial Finance is a trading style of Close Brothers Limited. Close Brothers Limited is registered in England and Wales (Company No. 00195626) and it’s registered office is 10 Crown Place, London, United Kingdom EC2A 4FT.

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New Giant GT5048 supplied to Beam Property Services by Ballyward Plant Services.

New Develon Dx19 & Rock Breaker sold by Northern Excavators.

New Case CX130E supplied to Creative Earth, Lisburn, by Cowan Bros.

2 x new Zoomlion ZS0808ACLI 26 foot Battery Scissors Lifts and 2 x 1012ACLI 32 Foot Battery Scissors lifts recently delivered to Bann Hire in Portadown.

Quoile Plant takes delivery of a new Develon DX27Z from Northern Excavators.

New Takeuchi TB260 sold to Tool Centre Plant Hire in Newcaslte by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

First new Almacrawler 2190 Tracked Spider recently delivered to Rmp Hire in Dublin.

New Develon DX19 supplied to Smyth Landscaping by Northern Excavators.

plant

A good second hand Takeuchi TB153FR delivered to a happy customer in Armagh by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.

New Zoomlion ZMP08 delivered to Monaghan Hire.

sales PLANT & CIVIL

Martin Elliman M: 07985 887171 E: martin@4squaremedia.net www.plantandcivilengineer.com 88

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Paul Ward collects his new Develon DX27Z-7K, complete with Engcon tiltrotator, from Ballyward Plant Services.

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