64 The SANY STH742 is a force to be reckoned with at ReCon Resources
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SPOTLIGHT ON
19 Auctions and finance
54 PlantWorx 2025
73 Material handling
80 Building towards net zero
FROM THE DESK OF
34 Gordon Best, Regional Director, MPANI
52 Karen McShane, Past President, CIHT
SALES AND SERVICES
97 Plant sales
100 Buyers’ guide
Against the pulsating pressures of today’s industry, efficiency is more than just an objective, it’s a necessity. Faced with tight schedules, evolving project demands and the need to optimise resources, every moment counts, and we’re seeing that need being, now, more than ever, translated into the innovative strategies, technologies and streamlined pathways and support navigated by the sector’s representatives.
This edition’s cover story is testament to how ambition and hard work – combined with industrious thinking – can lead to exceptional results, as P Woods & Son’s Paddy Woods shares how Road Trucks Limited’s all-encompassing after-sales support has helped keep his machines on the road and efficient. Our two View from the Cabs – centred on the SANY STH742 at ReCon Resources and Dan Gilkes’ Hyundai HX19e experience – also tap into how machinery evolution is helping to streamline the operator’s work and ultimately power more comfortable, speedy progress.
With auctions also going from strength-to-strength as a go-to solution for professionals navigating busy schedules, our special feature is presenting the latest trends and options to help your operations thrive through equipment attainment.
As the countdown to PlantWorx 2025 ticks on – taking place from 23rd-to-25th September at Newark Showground – Plant & Civil Engineer previews the key industry event, as well as a number of the notable exhibitors which you won’t want to miss out on visiting during your attendance.
Meanwhile, don’t forget to check out the continuation of our building towards net zero feature which is packed with meaningful moves being made towards even greater sector sustainability, such as McHale Plant Sales’ commitment to the circular economy, and LiuGong’s efforts in building a strong and sustainable future.
Elsewhere, you can delve into the latest developments across the material handling landscape, including new additions to Bobcat’s range, and Combilift’s safe and spacesaving solutions, plus expert insights from columnists Karen McShane and Gordon Best – and much more!
I do hope you enjoy the read, and remember that you can remain on the pulse of the profession’s news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.plantandcivilengineer.com. Our free weekly newsletter is also distributed every Tuesday – subscribe on our website now if you haven’t already.
See you next issue!
Sarah Nelson Editor
Email: pceeditor@4squaremedia.net
M: 07789 756 815
Creagh Concrete Supplies Hollowcore and Stairs for Strule Shared Education Campus in Omagh
Creagh Concrete Products Ltd is proud to play a key role in the development of the 125 acre Strule Shared Education Campus site in Omagh. Creagh is supplying over 20,000m2 of hollowcore flooring, over 350T of precast concrete stair units and 200 etched vertical piers and horizontal spandrels for the project.
This landmark educational facility is designed to bring together students from different community backgrounds under one shared campus, promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and forwardthinking education in Northern Ireland. Creagh’s involvement in the project reflects its commitment to delivering durable, efficient, and innovative precast solutions to complex infrastructure developments. Creagh’s hollowcore flooring system was chosen for
its structural efficiency, speed of installation, fire resistance, long span capabilities while the bespoke precast stair units ensure uniform quality and enhanced safety throughout the buildings. Both products minimise the need for manual handling and reduce the risk of injury.
Managing Director for Creagh, James McKeague, noted: “We are delighted to contribute to this landmark project. Our design and install teams have worked closely with the contractors Woodvale-Lowry JV Limited to ensure smooth delivery and installation for the Strule Campus. Creagh’s offsite precast solutions continue to shape education campuses across the UK and Ireland.”
The Strule Shared Education Campus is set to accommodate five post-primary schools and shared facilities, becoming a hub for over 4,000 students. As one of Northern Ireland’s leading precast concrete
manufacturers, Creagh continues to provide innovative solutions to large projects like Strule. Creagh’s early engagement with architects and contractors is key to providing a world-class holistic service.
For more information about Creagh Concrete Products Ltd and its range of precast solutions, including its Rapidschool fastrack offsite crosswall build system, visit www.creaghconcrete.co.uk
Genie Appoints New Authorised Parts Provider for the UK
To enhance customer service and support, together with speed of delivery for the most common parts, Genie has appointed Cherrypicker Shop Ltd. (CPS), based in Crook, County Durham, as a new Genie Authorised Parts Provider in the UK, supporting Genie machine, parts and service dealer Workplatform LTD.
With the appointment of CPS, small and mid-size AWP companies in the UK will benefit from faster delivery of many common parts from a local warehouse, while infrequent parts customers will appreciate the support CPS provides helping identify the right parts, as well as the ability to place an order without creating an account.
“At CPS, we pride ourselves in providing the highest levels of technical advice and support, ensuring our customers find it easy to identify and
order the correct part without having to spend time searching for it themselves,” said Tom Cribb from CPS.
“In addition to a high level of technical support, we also make ordering quick and simple.
End users and non-account holders can easily pay by credit card or bank transfer, while credit accounts are available for regular customers.”
Tom continued: “In addition, customers in the UK will benefit
from fast delivery – usually the next day, and sometimes sameday availability – of genuine Genie parts from extensive stock located at our warehouse in the northeast of England. We also are able to offer reduced delivery charges on larger parts such as platforms, wheels, etc., using UK pallet delivery, and will coordinate and expedite delivery of less common parts from the Genie European Distribution Center in the Netherlands.”
Dominique Luijckx, Genie Parts & Support Director for EMEA, welcomed CPS to the Genie Authorised Parts Distributor network, saying: “We’re delighted to welcome Cherrypicker Shop Ltd. to our growing network of Authorised Parts Distributors. CPS’s expertise, local parts warehouse, and commitment to superior customer service will make it faster and easier for our customers to receive the quality parts and support they need to keep their Genie equipment in top condition.”
(L-R): Rocky Flux - Customer Service Representative Parts (Genie), Richard Tindale - Director (CPS), Tom Cribb - Director (CPS), and Dominque Luijckx - Director Parts EMEA (Genie).
The Strule Shared Education Campus.
Carved by a lifetime of hard work, Rokbak articulated haulers are built to perform. Day after day. Decade after decade. From the heat of the desert to the cold of the arctic, you can rely on Rokbak.
Industry Leaders Gather at CIBSE’s Measuring Performance and Facilities Management Conference
CIBSE’s Measuring Performance and Facilities Management Conference recently brought together leading voices from across the built environment to explore the evolving landscape of building performance and operational excellence.
Held against the backdrop of increasing pressure to improve life-long building sustainability and efficiency, the conference focused on cutting-edge themes, including building management systems, data-driven decisionmaking, post-occupancy evaluation, and health and wellbeing metrics. The event also supported and expanded on the principles outlined in CIBSE Guide M: Maintenance Engineering and Management, reinforcing best practice in operational performance.
The programme featured four dynamic sessions, each offering practical insights and discussion from experienced professionals across the sector.
The first session, Collaboration and Accountability in a Changing
Landscape, was chaired by Vince Arnold, CIBSE President. This opening discussion explored how accountability and crossdisciplinary collaboration can unlock greater value in facilities management, with contributions from David Stevens, Robert Nicoll, and Tamsin Tweddell.
In the second session, Balancing Performance with Building and Occupant Health, chaired by David Stevens, speakers including Dr Philip Webb, Peter Brown, and Saurabh Bhandari
delved into strategies for harmonising performance optimisation with occupant wellbeing, emphasising the importance of creating efficient, yet human-centric, spaces.
The third session, Successful Collaboration and Lessons Learnt – Design Vs. Maintenance, was chaired by Joanna Harris, UK&I Head of Technical Services at Sodexo. This panel reflected on real-world projects where design decisions were influenced, or challenged, by long-term
New CIHT President has Resilience at his Core
The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) has announced the election of Mitesh Solanki as its new President for 2025 / 2026.
At his Presidential Inauguration at the CIHT’s offices in London, Mitesh called for the institution to continue its focus on resilience, professionalism and equity. Mitesh Solanki, President, CIHT, said: “Climate change is presenting society and our sector with challenges that we must do more on. The question we as professionals must ask ourselves is how we are adapting to the changing world. We need to take the opportunity to think about new ways of increasing our climate resilience and long-term solutions for the highways, transport and infrastructure sector. We have an opportunity for adaptation to
maintenance considerations. Speakers included Bernard Crouch, James Campbell, Joanna Harris, and Sylvain Blanchard. The final session, Post-Occupancy Evaluation, was chaired by Volkan Doda, Head of Design Technologies at Atelier Ten. Featuring insights from Dr Victoria Tink, Ellen Salazar, Tom McNeil, and Volkan Doda, the session highlighted how POE can be used to close the feedback loop, validate design intent and identify opportunities for ongoing improvement in building performance.
Reflecting on the importance of the event, Dr Anastasia Mylona, CIBSE Technical Director, said: “As the sector looks to tackle both climate challenges and growing performance expectations, this conference provided a vital platform for knowledge exchange, innovation and collaboration. Sharing practical approaches and lessons learnt is central to improving outcomes and empowering the professionals who shape the buildings we live and work in.”
be at the forefront of improving the resilience of our transport networks.”
As part of CIHT’s year under Mitesh Solanki’s presidency, the focus on resilience and adaptation will see the institution further embedding its activities and initiatives on climate action as it seeks to support the decarbonisation of the highways, transport and infrastructure sector.
Other areas of focus include:
Reiterating the institution’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion – including a desire to increase the ‘diversity of thought’ and widen the access opportunities for all people to join CIHT and the wider sector
Enhanced offerings on CIHT Learn – including new courses that will build on the CLIMATES project
A chance to support professionalism through increased mentoring and mentee opportunities – including an imminent launch of the new CIHT Mentoring Platform
CIHT’s AGM also saw the election of Kate Carpenter, Director of Operational Safety, Jacobs as the Vice-President of CIHT.
CIBSE Measuring Performance and Facilities Management Conference 2025.
Mitesh Solanki, President, CIHT.
SKY’S THE LIMIT
LIEBHERR DELIVERS FIRST 440 HC-L LUFFING JIB CRANE TO JOHN PAUL CONSTRUCTION
The first Liebherr 440 HC-L luffing jib crane has been successfully delivered and is now in use on the landmark Donore Project in Dublin. The recipient is John Paul Construction, a long-term and valued Liebherr customer, who has trusted in Liebherr’s technology and quality for over 50 years. A total of six Liebherr tower cranes will be in operation on the project. The new 440 HC-L plays a key role in this major initiative aimed at delivering much-needed housing. All Liebherr Tower Cranes in Ireland are supplied exclusively through the official distributor, Armorum Limited.
A STRONG START FOR A NEW CRANE GENERATION
With the 440 HC-L, Liebherr presents a new luffing jib crane in the 400 metre-tonne class. Designed specifically for large-scale urban construction projects, the crane combines high lifting capacity with a compact footprint and intelligent control features. It offers a maximum lifting capacity of 24 tonnes and can lift up to 3.9 tonnes at a maximum jib length of 65 metres. Innovations such as the new EMS-4 control system, a 12-inch display with the Tower Crane Operating System, and a redesigned counter-jib system ensure intuitive operation, enhanced safety, and
efficient assembly. The proven Litronic control system enables extremely precise movements. Additional features, such as Load-Plus, Micromove, and electric wind release, provide valuable day-to-day support for crane operators, making the 440 HC-L an ideal solution for space-constrained, complex sites like the Donore Project.
DONORE PROJECT: SUSTAINABLE URBAN RENEWAL IN DUBLIN
Located in the heart of Dublin’s south inner city, the Donore Project will deliver 542 highquality new homes, comprising 389 costrental and 153 social housing apartments
– helping to address the city’s housing needs. Developed on the site of the former St. Teresa’s Gardens in Dublin, this project represents the latest collaboration between the Land Development Agency and Dublin City Council to deliver affordable homes.
In addition to contemporary housing, the scheme will provide new public spaces and essential social infrastructure. Six Liebherr tower cranes are playing a key role in supporting the safe and efficient progress of construction, thanks to their reliability and strong on-site performance.
A SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP WITH JOHN PAUL CONSTRUCTION
John Paul Construction is one of Ireland’s leading construction companies and has enjoyed a close relationship with Liebherr for over five decades. The decision to use the new 440 HC-L crane reflects the company’s confidence in Liebherr’s ongoing innovation in luffing jib technology.
Today, John Paul Construction operates numerous Liebherr cranes on complex projects both at home and abroad, benefiting from Liebherr’s broad product range and comprehensive technical support.
The Liebherr 440 HC-L luffing jib crane in John Paul Construction’s signature green.
The Liebherr 440 HC-L luffing jib crane operated by John Paul Construction is the first unit of its kind to be delivered worldwide.
Roadcraft Crane & Plant Hire Invests in SANY
Liverpool based Roadcraft Crane & Plant Hire Ltd has taken delivery of its first SANY SAC600E 60T Mobile Crane. The 60T 3 axle crane, which has gone straight to work on a project in Liverpool is equipped with a 50m 5 section boom, providing class leading system length and powerful lifting capacities. The crane is powered by a Stage V MTU diesel engine and is mated to an Allison 4500sp automatic transmission with torque converter.
Stopping power is provided with all axle disc brakes mounted on Kessler axles and with a Telma retarder mounted on the 3rd axle. The crane is self-contained carrying 13t cwt with the UK’s STGO regulations for axle loads up to 16.5 tonne.
Colin Parkinson, Operations Director for Roadcraft Cranes, commented: “There are many reasons why we have chosen to invest in SANY as opposed to other suppliers, but the key ones were that the quality of the cranes is equal to other manufacturers, the cranes have strong charts
and lifting performance and SANY has a presence in the UK and Republic of Ireland as well as the rest of Europe. I expect that in the future we will see SANY gain market share in Europe and will have a strong presence in the mobile crane market.”
McHale Plant Sales Chosen Metso Distributor of the Year 2025
For the second year in succession, Metso UK and Ireland distributor, McHale Plant Sales, has been feted by the Finnish crushers manufacturer, this time as recipients of their coveted Distributor of the Year 2025 Award chosen from their worldwide distributor network.
First appointed Metso distributors in Ireland and Northern Ireland some 10 years ago, their role received a major boost when, in April 2023, their brief was extended to include the English, Scottish and Welsh markets.
Expressing their ‘honour’ at having been chosen Metso Distributor of the Year 2025 from among its
global distributor network, their Managing Director, Tim Shanahan, described the award as “a tribute to all within
the company – in Tamworth, Edinburgh, Rathcoole, and at our headquarters in Birdhill – whose ‘round-the-clock’ commitment
has been the key factor in helping us to strengthen our presence in all markets.”
In this, Tim referred also to what he called ‘our loyal and supportive customers’ whose ‘belief’ in Metso and whose ‘trust and confidence’ in the company and its staff “have been key factors in our being chosen for this prestigious award.”
Last year, McHale Plant Sales was presented with a Metso Best Marketing Award primarily in recognition of its work in promoting its appointment as their UK distributors, including the establishment of administrative centres at Tamworth and Edinburgh, and the recruitment of personnel in sales, parts and technical support positions.
CITB Publishes Construction Workforce Outlook 2025 – 2029
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has launched its Construction Workforce Outlook 2025 –2029, a refreshed and forward-looking report that sets out the workforce needs of the UK construction sector over the next five years. Previously named the Construction Skills Network report, the Workforce Outlook reflects a broader understanding of the sector’s needs. The outlook shows that there are opportunities ahead. Successfully
achieving them requires long term commitment from employers, government, training providers and CITB. For construction to have the workforce it needs in the future, investment in training that supports people into jobs is crucial. This is at the heart of CITB’s strategic and business plans. CITB has been producing workforce outlooks since 2006 / 2007 to provide evidence and insights into the number of workers needed to meet forecasted demand. It is still the only report of this
type for the construction industry and is compiled using a range of both backward and forward looking data. Having a view on changes in the construction workforce and the need for extra workers is a core part of helping CITB better understand future training needs.
The Construction Workforce Outlook 202529 report can be viewed and downloaded – along with a new web-based interactive tool – at: www.citb.co.uk/cwo
Pictured at the announcement of the award were McHale Managing Director, Tim Shanahan (centre), with Metso’s Carlos Padin, Vice President, Distribution Management Organisation EMEA (left), and Juha Yli-Petäys, Senior Vice President, Global Distribution Management.
In it for the long haul...?
...then you need the TA 230 and its unique combination of power and intelligence. Packed with market-leading technology such as an innovative weighing system, automatic traction control, hill start assist and a superior cabin to keep operators happy, it’s the perfect mix of agility and performance for the road ahead.
It’s a Liebherr. Job done.
TA 230 Articulated Dump Truck
ROAD TRUCKS LIMITED IS A ONE-STOP AFTER-SALES PARTNER FOR P WOODS & SON
Laced with a rich legacy as a reputable leader in trusted transportation, Scania is continuing to push boundaries to lead the way in advanced, trailblazing solutions worldwide.
It was this recognition of Scania’s impact as an industry heavyweight and all-round service provision – coupled with the company’s own boundless journey so far – which prompted P Woods & Son to feature the brand within its fleet.
As a family-owned business, P Woods & Son’s origins initially had an agricultural excavation focus, before expanding into civil engineering, road works, groundworks, plant hire, and wind farm maintenance. The company has since opened its own restoration site for inert waste reception and recycling, and today its work is primarily centred on processing inert waste and producing all types of aggregates, in addition to venturing into the quarry
sector. The team’s wide range of waste management and material supply solutions also include on-site and off-site crushing and screening, and muck shifting. The company has additionally entered into the manufacture and supply of Lego blocks, which have been increasingly popular.
To fulfil these diverse undertakings, P Woods & Son currently occupies two bases. The Ballynabwee site is positioned halfway between Derry/Londonderry and Strabane, and handles inert
waste disposal and recycling and producing aggregates for construction and agriculture. The setting supplies recycled materials to local customers, government agencies, and farmers, serving the surrounding areas. Meanwhile, P Woods & Son’s second site at Bonds Glen is a limestone quarry very close to Derry/Londonderry, just off the A6, that supplies stone and lime for farming and building.
Reflecting on the company’s progression, Paddy Woods, Owner of P Woods & Son, said: “Coming from a farming
background I have always had an interest in machinery. About 19 years ago, I started out with one digger driving myself and began doing general work for farmers. Lee Barclay, my first employee, who started 18 years ago, is still here today. From that I moved into utilities work, road works and doing crushing and screening for other people on their sites. We then got to have our own wash plant and moved into aggregates and away from the utilities work.
“At P Woods & Son we carry out all types of groundworks / site clearance, civil engineering, wind farm maintenance alongside our focus on recycled aggregates and inert disposal. We received the opportunity eight years or so ago to get a quarry and were able to expand out into it.”
Meeting both its own requirements, as well as its clients’ needs, is P Woods & Son’s comprehensive fleet of excavators, ranging from one
tonne to 40 tonne in size, a fleet of seven tipper lorries and units with low-loaders, tractors / trailers, dozers, loading shovels, and crushers and screeners which all can be hired out with an operator or self-drive.
“To help the company with their workload we hire in other companies, whether it’s for lorry hire or for plant hire as we like to share our work with other business. Within the P Woods & Son group of companies, we also buy and sell plant machinery which
can be either imported and exported,” explained Paddy.
LEADING WITH VISION
To match the magnitude of the work entailed within the projects, P Woods & Son has traditionally expressed exacting requirements when it comes to the selection of its fleet. It was this high calibre criteria which led the team to turn to Scania – now featuring three Scania tippers within its fleet.
Paddy explained: “I’ve always liked Scania and known that it’s a brand I can trust. These
three Scania trucks are the first new lorries I’ve ever bought as previously we would have purchased second-hand ones and fixed them up. As the business got busier, we realised that we couldn’t afford the downtime – it’s not what you make it’s what you can save as well – so Scania’s bumper-to-bumper package has been great.
“The warranty hasn’t been a problem, and the engines are efficient and reliable which is really important
for us. The vehicles are also really comfortable.”
BETTER TOGETHER
Alongside P Woods & Son’s evolution of offerings and machinery has been an uptake in its client base.
“We have hundreds of customers in both the north and south of the border. Some customers want one tonne of stone, whereas others may be after 10,000 tonnes. I love the variety of it and the customers keep coming back to us because they know
cover story
we’re reliable, competitive and will do what we say.”
But – through Paddy’s perspective – the company’s upward trajectory in both services and customer retention wouldn’t be possible without the team he hires.
“It’s the workforce that builds the business in my eyes. Everybody thinks that I’ve done really well, but it wasn’t just me – the employees and the customers have helped make this all a success as much as I have.”
The team in question has expanded to 30-plus now – and reflective of the company’s family roots, Paddy’s cousin, Jamie Woods, helps look after the aggregates, while other extended family members also contribute to the running of the operations.
Paddy’s two young children, Zac and Zara, are especially enraptured by the industry, and already following in their father’s footsteps with their passion for the work.
“Zac has been into it, as well as my young girl, Zara, from a young age – always helping out as much as they can. Zac has his own rideon Scania he got about five or six years ago and he just loves it.”
Long-term employee, Lance Logue, looks after the waste management, contracts and health and safety, and William Brown manages the maintenances / fabrication end of the company.
GOING THE EXTRA MILE
From curbing project progress and prompting heightened costs, to inducing client dissatisfaction and affecting long-term schedules, unexpected downtime can be a major obstruction to the industry.
And with P Woods & Son’s scale of work accelerating, it is paramount that its fleet boasts operational and performance continuity – assurance which they have been able to reap through its collaboration with Road Trucks Limited.
The Scania dealer is conveniently located to serve Northern Ireland’s sectors from its depots in Larne and Omagh. Underscored by frequent communication, Road Trucks Limited’s Omaghbased site has particularly been a steady guide for the P Woods & Son team. Through scheduled maintenance and prompt assistance, the dealer has helped maintain the lifespan and efficiency of the fleet vehicles, leading to lower overall expenses.
“Road Trucks Limited is trustworthy, reliable, and the fact it has a location in Larne as well as Omagh means it is well spread out. They provide us with eightweekly checks – I just have to drive the machines in and they do the rest,” commented Paddy.
Road Trucks Limited has long been cementing its role as a cornerstone of support for the sector; offering comprehensive vehicle services focused on
maximising uptime through highquality advice and maintenance. Testament to its all-encompassing approach, Road Trucks Limited’s provision of modular and tailored solutions incorporate fleet management, flexible financing and personalised training for peace of mind. Its workshops deliver prompt, professional repairs and preventative maintenance, while accident repair services help get vehicles back on the road quickly, and its global logistics network ensures rapid delivery of engineered parts and accessories.
A HELPING HAND
This support from Road Trucks Limited has been invaluable to the P Woods & Son team in line with its own commitment to optimal performance.
“I always think something isn’t a problem – it’s how you sort it out – and the Road Trucks Limited team is always very quick to provide spare parts
and come out if we have any issues with the vehicles.
“I had a lorry that broke down one weekend and they came straight out within a few hours after I rang them up. Some other companies would come out and it would take a day to diagnose the problem and then a day to fix it, but Road Trucks Limited is down and back in the one day. This speed is important for my business – I need to keep my machines on the road and efficient.”
Due to the consistency and confidence which Road Trucks Limited’s support has brought to the company’s fleet performance, the P Woods & Son team has confirmed that it will be similarly consistent in continuing to work with the Scania dealer again.
“I will definitely get more Scania in the future – one of the biggest things about them is the resale value. And since dealing with Road Trucks Limited, we have worked with a variety of people from the team and every one has been very helpful.”
As Paddy continues to carve out his intentions for the future of P Woods & Son, it is glaringly clear that the company is perfectly positioned to maintain its momentum moving ahead.
“We would like to expand further in the future by venturing and diversifying into other services and possibly setting up in new locations to ensure the longevity of the company.”
www.roadtrucksscania.co.uk
Jamie, Zac, and Paddy Woods.
product design
COMBILIFT RECEIVES THIRD RED DOT WIN WITH SEVEN-TONNE ELECTRIC
MULTIDIRECTIONAL
COUNTERBALANCE FORKLIFT
Irish-based manufacturer Combilift, a global leader in multi-directional and customised handling solutions, has been awarded the prestigious Red Dot Award for Product Design 2025 for its CombiCB70E, high-capacity, electric-powered multidirectional forklift, developed to meet the needs of heavy-duty, long-load handling in more sustainable ways.
The Red Dot Award, one of the most internationally-renowned design competitions, recognises excellence in design quality and innovation, and is no stranger to Combilift’s vision to shaping the future of the commercial vehicles industry. This award completes a hat trick for Combilift who previously won a Red Dot for the Combi-WR and ‘Best of the Best’ for the Combi-CB4. Combilift’s Combi-CB70E impressed the international jury with its new ergonomic design, environmental credentials, and ability to enhance operator comfort and productivity in demanding industrial settings.
Martin McVicar, CEO and Co-Founder of Combilift, commented: “We are delighted to receive our third Red Dot Award this year for the Combi-CB70E. Our design and engineering teams have been striving to provide solutions that are not only functional and safe but also reflect excellence in industrial design. Our customers increasingly demand electric alternatives that don’t compromise on performance, and the CB70E is exactly that.”
The multidirectional Combi-CB70E is a seventonne capacity electric counterbalance forklift, specifically designed for handling long and bulky loads in confined or challenging spaces. Equipped with Combilift’s patented
Independent Traction Control System and large elastic rubber tyres, it provides allterrain capability while maintaining zeroemission operation. The spacious gas strut suspension cab and floor to ceiling glazing offers enhanced visibility and comfort, while the Auto Swivel Seat – which automatically swivels 15 degrees to the left or right, depending on the direction of travel –ensures optimal ergonomics and comfort for operators, even during extended shifts.
This Red Dot recognition comes in an exceptional 11 months of success for
Combilift, which has also received multiple international accolades for its products and leadership, including Product of the Year and Ergonomics Award at the UKMHA Archies Awards, as well as Design Team of the Year and industry leader awards from the UK’s Engineering & Manufacturing Awards.
With over 1,000 employees and exports to more than 85 countries, Combilift continues to set benchmarks in safety, design, and innovation in the materials handling sector.
Martin McVicar, Combilift CEO and Co-Founder, and Mark Whyte, Lead Engineer.
Combilift’s Auto-Swivel Seat.
The Combi-CB70E, unmatched as the shortest 7t counterbalance on the market.
BUILT, NOT TAUGHT: HOW ROKBAK’S HANDS-ON TRAINING POWERS REALWORLD RESULTS
A training philosophy forged on the factory floor is delivering a new level of customer support. At its heart is Rokbak's Aftermarket Training Manager, Tommy Moore, whose own journey from builder to global trainer has shaped a unique, hands-on programme that provides lower operating costs, greater machine uptime and a rock-solid commitment to partnership.
For Tommy, a lesson on articulated dump trucks doesn’t happen in front of a PowerPoint slide. It happens on the workshop floor, tools in hand, surrounded by the very components that keep a job site productive. It’s a hands-on, practical approach that perfectly mirrors his own journey through the company and embodies the brand’s commitment to its customers and dealers.
Tommy’s career with the Scottish manufacturer didn’t begin in a classroom, but on the assembly line, physically building the rock-solid haulers the company is known for. That foundational experience, moving from the line to mechanical engineering, where he rewrote the standard operating procedures for building the trucks, gave him a granular understanding of every nut, bolt and system.
It’s this deep-seated, practical knowledge that forms the core of Rokbak’s highly effective training philosophy.
LEARNING BY DOING
“You can talk all day pointing to a picture, but it’s not the same as walking a group of technicians over to a machine, showing them the component and demonstrating how it works right there in front of them,” Tommy explained.
“When we discuss a part of the truck, we work on that part. We have a full workshop here at our headquarters in Motherwell, Scotland, where we can strip a machine down and rebuild it. That’s how people truly learn.”
This philosophy is about more than just effective teaching; it’s about delivering tangible value to Rokbak customers. The training, which is provided free of charge to dealers and end-users, directly impacts a machine’s total cost of ownership and uptime.
DRIVING BETTER PERFORMANCE
A key focus is educating operators – or teaching technicians how to educate operators – on how to use the trucks to their full potential, which takes pressure off consumable parts.
“A big part of our training is showing field engineers and operators how to use the truck’s technology properly, like the retarder and gear-changing techniques,” Tommy continued.
“If an operator isn’t using the retarder correctly, for example, they can burn through a set of brakes three times quicker than they should. By teaching them certain driving techniques, we save the customer money and keep their truck running.”
ON-SITE, HANDS-ON
With a target to have 70 per cent of dealer technicians trained globally, Rokbak’s programme is the core of its customer support strategy. The four-day courses held at the Motherwell facility –complete with a test track – are comprehensive and tailored. Tommy and his colleagues often contact participants in advance to understand any specific issues they are facing, allowing them to set up practical demonstrations to solve real-world problems. This bespoke, hands-on approach is a far-cry from the one or twoday sessions that are common in the industry. For Rokbak, the investment in time and resources is a clear differentiator.
“Being able to physically strip down an axle or transmission and have technicians get their hands on it is something we
are very fortunate to be able to do,” Tommy noted. “We want them to leave here 100 per cent comfortable with the truck.”
That commitment extends far beyond the factory gates.
Whether travelling to Ghana, Australia or Indonesia, the rule is the same: training must happen with a truck on-site.
“You can’t keep a group of 15 technicians interested with a presentation in a meeting room, especially when there might be some language barriers,” he said. “But get them out on the iron, doing tests, checking pressures and diagnosing issues together – that’s a language everyone understands. They get hands-on with it.”
MORE THAN A TRAINING SESSION
At the end of each course, attendees leave with new knowledge and appreciation for the Scottish culture and, just as importantly, Tommy’s phone number. It’s a symbol of an ongoing partnership.
“We want our customers and dealers and their technicians to know we’re always just a phone call away,” commented Tommy. “Our goal is to give them the knowledge and support they need to get the job done. Their success is our success.”
Rokbak Aftermarket Training Manager, Tommy Moore.
Participants can strip down a real Rokbak articulated hauler to understand how every component ticks.
Tommy (right) with representatives from dealer Case Power & Equipment in Florida, who had flown over to Scotland from America for the training.
PREVIEW THE MERLO STAND AT THE 2025 NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS
After a successful debut in 2024, Merlo returns to the National Ploughing Championships in 2025 with an impressive line-up of machines that serve both Irish farmers and the construction industry.
Supported by its network of Irish dealers, Merlo is bringing machines engineered for performance, safety, comfort, and the challenges of modern Irish work environments.
AGRICULTURE LINE-UP: BUILT FOR IRISH FARMS
From Merlo’s agricultural range, a selection of compact and medium-capacity telehandlers will be on display. From tight farmyards to silage clamps and bale stacks, Merlo’s agricultural telehandlers are built for versatility, visibility, and precision handling:
• TF27.6 – A nimble yard performer with a 2.7-tonne lift capacity and 6m lift height powered by a 75hp Kohler Stage V engine. Ideal for traditional buildings and tight turning spaces
• TF33.7 – Offering a step-up in capacity with a 3.3-tonne lift and 7m lift height, this handler balances footprint and power via a 115hp Deutz engine, making it a popular choice on dairy and mixed farms
• TF35.7 – A favourite among mid-to-large farms with 3.5-tonne capacity, 7m lift, and a 136hp Stage V engine, ideal for intensive bale handling and grain loading
EWORKER: ZERO EMISSIONS, MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY
Spanning both agriculture and construction, the Merlo eWorker 25.5 is an awardwinning, compact, 100 per cent electric telehandler that delivers a 2.5-tonne lift capacity, 5m lift height, and eight-hour runtime on a single charge. Quiet, compact and emission-free, the eWorker excels in:
• Horticulture, livestock sheds and farm buildings
• Indoor and urban construction, warehouse logistics, and low noise or nighttime operations
CONSTRUCTION LINEUP: BUILT FOR REACH, CONTROL AND SAFETY
Merlo’s growing presence in Irish construction is powered by machines engineered for lifting precision, job site safety, and all-day performance – whether you’re working on infrastructure, structural steel, forestry, or multi-storey builds.
• ROTO 50.26 S PLUS – A highperformance rotating telehandler offering five-tonne capacity and 26m lift height, powered by a Stage V 170hp FPT engine. With 360° turret rotation, a unique tilting cab, dual hydraulic circuits, and automatic stabilisers, it’s the go-to solution for complex lifts in construction, steel erection, tree work, and infrastructure maintenance
• P40.14 PLUS – This four-tonne, 14m stabilised model combines frame levelling, boom side shift, and Merlo’s
ASCS (Adaptive Stability Control System) for safe, pinpoint material placement at height. It’s a top choice for housebuilding, roof installation, and tight-access projects where precision is essential
These machines reflect Merlo’s operatorfocused approach, delivering exceptional visibility, spacious cabs, and ergonomic controls that reduce fatigue and boost productivity on busy construction sites.
DESIGNED FOR IRISH CONDITIONS – BACKED BY LOCAL EXPERTS
From navigating narrow lanes or rough terrain to operating in low-emission zones and lifting heavy loads, Merlo’s 2025 line-up delivers smart, high-performance handling solutions for farmers, contractors, builders, landscapers, and public works teams across Ireland. Whether you’re looking to modernise your fleet, increase site efficiency, cut emissions, or explore the latest in electric and rotating handling technology, the Merlo stand is your one-stop destination.
Expert support will be on hand, with the Merlo team and representatives from Merlo’s dealer network; Jim Power Agri in Tallow, Waterford; FJS Plant in Naas, Co Kildare, and Nunan Farm Machinery in Broadford, Co Limerick, available to walk you through machine features, options, and technical details.
Don’t miss your chance to see what’s next in lifting innovation, comfort, and safety – just look up for the green booms!
ROTO50.26.
The first choice for dynamic asset disposal
Inspiring businesses to buy and sell assets the easy way, generating maximum return on investment and fuelling the circular economy.
High quality plant & machinery available
Sensible reserves
Quick & free registration process
Over 100 auctions per month
Get in touch to find out more 01924
UNLOCKING VALUE IN A SHIFTING MARKET:
HOW SECOND-HAND MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT SUPPORTS GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY
As the UK construction landscape continues to experience fluctuations, businesses across the plant and civil engineering sectors are reassessing their strategies for growth, resilience, and sustainability. Kevin Gardner, Commercial Manager at BPI, takes a closer look at the
current market and what businesses can do to ensure they achieve their goals.
“Across the plant and civil engineering sectors, businesses are continuing to adapt to a fast-evolving market, balancing the pressures of cost, demand, and sustainability. With rising material prices and tighter margins, many are looking for smarter ways to
Example of an asset sold with BPI.
scale operations and maintain profitability without compromising on capability.
“One area attracting increasing attention is the use of second-hand machinery, equipment and tools. Whether buying or selling to support new projects or maintain existing operations, pre-owned assets offer compelling benefits. It’s faster to source, typically more cost-effective, and contributes positively to circular economy practices.
“This approach is becoming particularly relevant as the construction industry remains unpredictable. According to the latest S&P Global UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index, construction activity in July fell to its lowest level since May 2020.
“All three main construction segments –housing, commercial, and civil engineering – recorded declines, with civil engineering seeing the sharpest fall in activity.
“Running alongside this, demand for quality used machinery, equipment and tools continues to rise. For contractors and civil engineering firms, pre-owned assets provide a faster, more affordable path to expansion or project fulfilment, without sacrificing performance.”
A recent BPI example comes from working with a national tool hire company to manage its five-year fleet cycle. The goal was to sell tools and equipment
efficiently, cut maintenance costs, and get the best return on assets.
Once processed, the tools were listed on BPI’s auction platform which has over 180,000 registered bidders. Each sale is fully managed, with prompt payment, detailed monthly reports, and direct settlement into the client’s account.
“This kind of structured, streamlined approach takes the hassle out of asset disposal,” said Kevin.
“It allows businesses to recover maximum value from surplus equipment while keeping operational disruption to a minimum.”
Beyond the financial returns, there’s also a clear sustainability benefit.
“By giving tools and machinery a second life, companies reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower their carbon impact,” he added.
“As the UK continues to invest in infrastructure, demand for new and used machinery will stay high. Businesses that use flexible ways to get equipment and manage their assets wisely will be better prepared for changes and new opportunities.”
“In a world where budgets are tight, timelines are shorter, and sustainability is non-negotiable, selling at auction and buying second-hand offers a compelling solution.”
For more information, visit www.bpiauctions.com
THE FIRST CHOICE FOR DYNAMIC ASSET DISPOSAL
BPI is the trusted partner for businesses looking to dispose of commercial assets quickly, efficiently, and for maximum return. From plant and construction equipment to vehicles and surplus stock, BPI provides a fully managed service tailored to the size, sector, and specific needs of your business.
Whether you’re retiring, relocating, restructuring, renewing a fleet, closing, or simply clearing surplus equipment, BPI takes the hassle out of the entire process. BPI’s dedicated sector specialists handle every stage, from cataloguing to marketing, sales, and logistics, so you can focus on running your business.
WHAT SETS BPI APART?
Speed and simplicity – BPI completes sales within a quick turnaround time, delivering cleared funds in weeks Bespoke solutions – sell from your own site or one of their secure, fully insured BPI locations
Maximum returns – BPI’s online auction platform and proactive marketing strategy target the right buyers for the right price
End-to-end service – project management, marketing, logistics, and post-sale administration all handled in-house
THEIR REACH, YOUR ADVANTAGE
BPI’s online auctions run 24/7, attracting over 700k unique users each year and hosting more than 50k auctions annually. With over 180k registered bidders worldwide, they connect your assets with qualified buyers who are ready to act, ensuring you get the highest possible returns with zero upfront costs. They operate nationwide, supporting businesses across the UK with a simple five-step selling process that delivers results.
BPI doesn’t wait for buyers, they find them.
Example of an asset sold with BPI.
RITCHIE BROS. PREPARES FOR HIGHVOLUME AUCTION MONTH
WITH “SUPER SEPTEMBER” FUELLED BY A 21 PER CENT RISE IN DEMAND
Ritchie Bros. is rolling out Super September 2025
– a month filled with highvolume auctions designed to match the surge in international demand for used machinery and trucks. With over 10 major events taking place across Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, it’s a key moment for businesses to buy and sell equipment at scale.
This season it’s time to Think BIG – with more auctions, more opportunities, and broader
reach, especially considering the dynamic activity seen during the first half of the year: Ritchie Bros. has seen a 21 per cent increase in buyers year-over-year, alongside a 19 per cent rise in bidder registrations across its transaction channels in the EMEA and APAC regions. These figures highlight sustained confidence in the used equipment market.
The countries with the highest levels of international bidding and buying activity include Australia, Spain, France, Italy, and Germany.
In the construction sector, the most frequently sold equipment categories were mini excavators, boom lifts, crawler excavators, wheel loaders, and articulated dump trucks. In the transport segment, topselling items included truck tractors with both single and tandem axles, dump trailers, sport utility vehicles, and pick-ups.
A PRIME OPPORTUNITY TO SELL
Super September is designed to connect sellers with buyers at the
right time. With demand for used equipment on the rise – reflected in a 21 per cent increase in bidder registrations – September presents a valuable opportunity to bring used heavy equipment and vehicles to market.
Through Ritchie Bros.’ worldwide network, sellers can benefit from broad international exposure and access to a wide pool of active buyers. The company offers flexible selling options, including unreserved auctions and the Marketplace-E platform, depending on
individual needs. These channels are designed for efficiency, with most sellers receiving proceeds within 21 days.
Reflecting on their experience, Huw Richards, Group Chief Operating Officer at Walters Group, noted that “Ritchie Bros. offered us various platforms across the year and routes to the customer, as opposed to a traditional single auction. They demonstrated a clear understanding of our needs and proposed a bespoke auction strategy that aligns perfectly with our specific requirements.”
And Samuel Mercer, CEO at Plantforce, highlighted: “When considering the right team to work with, we wanted a company that was knowledgeable and helpful and so far we have found Ritchie Bros. to be just that.”
MORE CHOICE FOR BUYERS THAT WANT TO “THINK BIG”
September brings a surge of auction activity across Ritchie Bros., offering buyers access to a wide and diverse range of used
equipment across construction, transportation, and agriculture sectors. This period provides an ideal opportunity to source machinery for both end-of-year projects and long-term planning.
Buyers can participate in public timed auctions or explore equipment on Marketplace-E, where machines, like excavators, wheel loaders, dump trucks, and lifting equipment, are available to purchase directly or by making an offer.
Additional support is available throughout the process, from
detailed inspection reports to optional services like transport and international export assistance. With equipment located across the globe and accessible online, customers can source what they need, when they need it, and from anywhere.
“At Ritchie Bros., we understand that buying equipment is a major investment,” said Duncan Ainscough, International Head of Sales at Ritchie Bros. “Our focus is on helping buyers make well-informed decisions by offering a broad selection,
transparent information, and expert guidance –empowering them to move forward with confidence.”
A PACKED AUCTION CALENDAR
Save the dates! Multiple Ritchie Bros. auctions will take place in the upcoming weeks:
Australia National Agricultural Auction – 10th September
Benelux – 16th-to-17th September
Ocana, Spain – 17th-to-18th September
Meppen, Germany –18th-to-19th September
Dubai, UAE – 22nd-to-23rd September
France – 23rd-to-25th September
United Kingdom & Ireland – 24th-to-25th September
Italy – 2nd-to-3rd Oct
Marketplace-E – Ongoing, 24/7 online marketplace
For more information, visit www.rbauction.co.uk
2013 McCloskey R155 Tracked Screen Plant
2008 Liebherr L542 Wheel Loader
2008 Terex Demag AC402L All Terrain Crane 2022
MID ULSTER AUCTIONS: FOR SERIOUS SELLERS AND SMART BUYERS
Noel Lennon, Conor Lennon and Ricky McAleese.
Time, value and reliability are everything. Whether you’re upgrading equipment, releasing capital or searching for cost-effective machinery, auctions are a proven route to results – fast, transparent and efficient.
Mid Ulster Auctions (MUA) –established in 1994 – has spent over 30 years working with professionals across the UK, Ireland and Europe. The company understands your world, speaks your language and makes buying and selling simple.
STRONG SELLER RETURNS
Are you managing surplus assets, fleet turnover, liquidation or end-of-life equipment?
Traditional selling methods can be slow and uncertain. Auctions provide a structured, time-bound process – with qualified buyers competing for your machinery.
MUA’s experienced auctioning team handles the full process from start-to-finish, allowing you to do your job while they do theirs.
RELIABLE EQUIPMENT AND COMPETITIVE PRICES
If you’re searching for plant, machinery, vehicles or equipment, auctions are a practical choice.
MUA’s regular online-only auctions allow you to browse, inspect and bid from anywhere with a wide variety of stock from trusted sources, fair market pricing and simple registration and bidding through its secure platform.
TRUSTED SERVICE
The way MUA works is transparent, fair and convenient. The company connects its
customers through a global network of multi-channel, trusted services that give sellers access to a wider audience and buyers a simple, effortless way to get exactly what they need. Its physical presence is equally accessible, located just 35 minutes away from Belfast and Derry by road and ideally positioned for convenient access to Northern Ireland ferry ports and airports.
MUA holds over 1,000 auctions annually across the UK and Ireland, covering a wide range of sectors: from cars and vans to agricultural and plant machinery, to engineering and woodworking.
Its reputation for integrity and expertise means it has become one of the leading asset disposal providers within both the public and private sectors. It has established long-term, successful relationships, working with SMEs, large multi-nationals, local councils, government bodies and law enforcement agencies across the UK and Ireland.
But no matter how big it grows or how wide its reach, MUA retains the friendliness and attentionto-detail that only a family-run business can offer, no matter what you’re buying or selling.
READY TO BUY OR SELL?
• No Sale, NO FEE
• Simple, hassle-free and transparent process
• Risk-free
• 93 per cent customer satisfaction rate – MUA knows that it can’t please everyone, but it can sure try!
• 31 years of experience
• Global reach, local access
Browse, inspect and bid from anywhere with our online-only auctions & a wide variety of stock, fair market pricing & simple registration and bidding through our secure platform.
• No Sale, NO FEE
• Simple, hassle-free & transparent process
• Risk-free
Our experienced auctioning team handles the full process from start to finish, allowing you to do your job while we do ours. READY TO BUY OR SELL?
• 93% customer satisfaction rate
- we know we can’t please everyone, but we sure try!
• Over 30 years of experience
• Global reach, local access
LATE PAYMENT REFORM IS WELCOME, SAYS THE FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS
Measures announced as part of the government’s ‘Small Business Plan’, to tackle late payments and tool theft, futureproof skills, and improve access to finance, are welcome steps to create a more level playing field for small building companies, says the Federation of Master Builders.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, commented: “Late payments remain one of the biggest challenges for SME builders, disrupting cashflow, delaying projects and putting many firms at risk. Unlike larger volume builders, small firms work job to job and are far less able to absorb additional costs compared with the larger volume builders.
“The government’s commitment to tackle late payment in the Small Business Plan will be welcomed across the sector, as prompt and fair payment is vital to the sustainability of small builders and the wider economy.”
Brian Berry continued: “Small builders are also facing a perfect storm of rising costs, skills shortages and planning delays alongside these cashflow pressures. It is positive to see the Plan include action to tackle tool theft with the recruitment of 13,000 more police officers, as well as measures to improve access to finance for small businesses.
“The emphasis on future-proofing skills is welcome as investing in training and attracting the next generation is essential to keep the
small building sector strong and sustainable. We need to see the government build on this plan and prioritise delivery of the promised streamlined planning reforms for small builders, particularly the fasttrack approvals for sites of up to nine houses, which will help small firms deliver the homes Britain needs.”
ABOUT THE FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS
The Federation of Master Builders is the largest trade association in the UK construction industry representing the interests of small and medium-sized building companies and lobbying for members at both national and local levels.
Evolution of Auction Trends: Building the Future
Over the years, the industry’s auctions have undergone a remarkable transformation, driven by technological advancements, market demands, and environmental considerations.
Digital Revolution and Online Auctions
As technology has advanced, many online auction platforms have emerged, revolutionising the industry. Now, bidders from around the world can often participate without leaving their offices or job sites. This shift has increased competition, transparency, and access to a broader range of assets.
Emerging Trends in Construction Auction Markets
Virtual reality and 3D inspection: modern auction platforms often incorporate virtual reality and
3D imaging, allowing bidders to inspect equipment remotely in detail, reducing the need for physical inspections
Data-driven bidding: the integration of analytics helps bidders make informed decisions based on equipment history, market value, and real-time demand trends
Environmental and sustainable assets: auctions now often feature ecofriendly machinery, electric equipment, and sustainable building materials, reflecting the industry’s shift toward greener construction practices
Specialised auctions: niche markets, such as heavy machinery for specific industries
like mining or infrastructure, are gaining prominence, offering targeted opportunities for buyers and sellers
Hybrid auctions: combining live and online bidding can create more dynamic and accessible events, accommodating both traditional buyers and modern digital audiences
Looking Ahead
The auction industry is continuing to innovate, leveraging AI for predictive pricing, blockchain for secure transactions, and IoT for real-time equipment tracking. These trends not only streamline the buying and selling process but also align with the broader push for sustainability and efficiency in construction.
Construction auction trends highlight a sector in motion – adapting to technological advancements and market needs. As these trends evolve, stakeholders are poised to benefit from even more transparent and efficient practices, building a stronger foundation for the future of construction.
APEX FINANCE GROUP IS HELPING BUSINESSES SECURE THE FUNDING THEY NEED – FAST
As a trusted broker, Apex Finance Group can connect you with the right lenders to secure loans from £5,000 to £5 million. With an average decision time of 24-to-48 hours and funds released within 24 hours, the team ensure fast, flexible solutions tailored to your needs.
The Apex Finance Group build lasting business partnerships through transparent, jargonfree financial guidance. As independent brokers, they’re not tied to specific lenders, allowing them to secure optimal terms tailored to your unique requirements. The team’s personal service ensures you’ll always
speak directly with experienced advisors who understand your business objectives.
Apex Finance Group’s values – which guide their financial expertise – include absolute transparency, financial precision, service excellence, financial empathy, and client advocacy.
Among the provision of products which the company can secure for businesses are:
• Commercial loans up to £5 million
• Asset finance
• Invoice finance
• Bridging loans
ASSET FINANCE: OPTIMISE YOUR EQUIPMENT STRATEGY AND PRESERVE WORKING CAPITAL
Strategic equipment acquisition without capital constraints is made possible through Apex Finance Group’s asset finance solutions. These enable businesses to acquire essential equipment and machinery without significant upfront capital outlay.
The company offer a comprehensive range of options, including hire purchase, finance leases, operating leases, and refinancing of existing assets. Their approach helps preserve working capital, provides potential
auctions & finance
tax advantages, and establishes predictable payment structures aligned with cash flow.
Apex Finance Group can arrange financing for virtually any business asset, from vehicles and production equipment to technology infrastructure and specialised machinery. With competitive rates, flexible terms ranging from one-to-seven years, and rapid approval processes, they ensure a smooth and efficient financing experience.
STREAMLINED EQUIPMENT ACQUISITION WITHOUT CAPITAL STRAIN
The process begins with an operational requirements analysis, where Apex Finance Group work to understand your business operations, equipment needs, and how these assets will generate returns. This helps determine the most suitable financing approach.
Next, they focus on funding structure optimisation by evaluating various asset finance models to identify the best balance of ownership, tax efficiency, and cash flow impact tailored to the client’s needs. Their team then handles vendor co-ordination, working directly with the chosen equipment suppliers to negotiate terms and streamline paperwork, often securing enhanced deals.
Following this, Apex Finance Group prepare a tailored application submission, creating comprehensive documentation that effectively presents the business case to maximise approval chances and secure favourable terms.
During efficient credit processing, they manage all aspects of the credit approval process, handling requests and documentation to minimise administrative burdens and speed up equipment acquisition. Once financing is approved, they coordinate delivery scheduling and documentation completion, providing ongoing guidance on managing the agreement throughout its term.
STRATEGIC EQUIPMENT ACQUISITION FOR BUSINESS ADVANTAGE
Apex Finance Group’s finance solutions transform how businesses acquire and manage essential equipment. Instead of traditional capital expenditure, they help clients adopt a strategic approach where equipment costs align with the revenue generated. This strategy preserves credit lines, improves balance sheet metrics, and offers flexibility to upgrade as technology advances. For seasonal businesses, payments can be tailored to match revenue patterns, providing additional
APEX FINANCE GROUP’S VALUES –WHICH GUIDE THEIR FINANCIAL EXPERTISE – INCLUDE ABSOLUTE TRANSPARENCY, FINANCIAL PRECISION, SERVICE EXCELLENCE, FINANCIAL EMPATHY, AND CLIENT ADVOCACY.
financial flexibility. Whether supporting sole traders requiring a single vehicle, or large corporations upgrading entire production facilities, their asset finance specialists develop customised solutions that support growth while optimising financial efficiency. For more information, visit www.apexfinancegroup.co.uk or email info@apexfinancegroup.co.uk
HOW TO RELEASE EQUITY FROM MACHINERY, STOCK AND OTHER BUSINESS ASSETS
CLOSE BROTHERS COMMERCIAL FINANCE
If your business is looking to improve cash flow, the assets on your balance sheet could provide a solution. By using asset finance, you can increase access to working capital without traditional borrowing, such as taking out a loan. Our refinance solutions, also known as capital release, can provide an immediate cash injection or enable the restructuring of existing finance agreements.
HOW DOES REFINANCE WORK?
This approach works simply. Typically, we value the asset and purchase it from you at an agreed price, then we hire it back to you over a fixed period. Repayment costs are tailored to you to match your generated income.
You can release equity from most assets, including vehicles, plant and machinery.
We work with you to understand your business and financial needs. We understand that seasonal fluctuations can have an impact
on cash flow, so we can tailor your monthly repayments to take this into account. We turn things around quickly – sometimes within a few days of our initial meeting.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF REFINANCING?
There are several advantages when releasing the value of your existing assets. Firstly, it allows your business to access extra working capital and continue using your assets simultaneously. This means your workflow won’t be interrupted.
We work with all kinds of businesses, from sole traders to large-scale organisations, because this approach is flexible and can reflect your own levels of trade.
To find out more about how we can help your business, visit us at www. closecommercialfinance.ie and contact us today to talk to one of our specialists. www.closecommercialfinance.ie
Across Ireland, our experts are well-versed in businesses like yours, so they won’t just listen to your plans, they’ll understand them.
CASE LAUNCHES HIGH SPECIFICATION CX38D AS 20TH MODEL IN COMPREHENSIVE MINI EXCAVATOR LINE-UP
CASE Construction Equipment has expanded its mini excavator lineup, with the addition of a 3.9-tonne machine, that delivers a cost-effective, feature-rich alternative for a wide variety of applications. The CX38D is the 20th model in the market-leading CASE compact excavator range. It weighs 430kg more than the popular CX35D and sits on a 120mm wider undercarriage, for additional stability, with an optional six-way dozer blade further enhancing its versatility. Maximum digging depth and reach are increased, thanks to a 200mm longer dipper arm
than the CX35D, with a 250mm longer arm available as an option. If additional lifting capability is required, there is also the option of a heavier counterweight.
HYDRAULIC POWER
Innovative load-sensing hydraulics provide accurate, simultaneous movement of all hydraulic functions, with low-effort joysticks making life easier for the operator. The CX38D can be supplied with up to three auxiliary circuits, all controlled through electro-proportional roller switches on the joysticks. New hydraulic architecture has been introduced to provide excellent breakout forces, lifting capacity and upper carriage swing performance. The dozer blade is equipped with a float function, making it easier for operators to level ground and
clear the job site. Two options normally only available on larger models, include electroproportional flow control for the first auxiliary service and electro-proportional engine rpm control with auto-idle functionality.
OPERATOR COMFORT
As with all CASE D-Series compact excavators, the machine benefits from an optimised fullsize operator cab, though retaining its zerotail swing design. There are new footrests, providing additional clearance on the cab floor, while an increased number of air vents delivers improved ventilation and demisting capability. The main cab air conditioning components have been relocated to the upper rear spoiler, allowing zero-tail swing in the vertical axis and improved visibility. Featuring a more advanced digital display screen, the cab is designed to increase operator comfort in all areas. There are additional storage compartments in the cab for stowage of personal items. New anti-theft technology makes it possible to avoid the use of a second key as an immobiliser, which will benefit rental companies with multiple users.
SERVICE ACCESS
Though sporting a zero-tail swing design, to minimise the possibility of damage to the rear of the machine and to add versatility in operation, the CX38D has outstanding service accessibility, thanks to wide engine covers. In addition, the entire cab structure can be tilted forward, to provide easy access to major components for service and repair.
SERVICE SOLUTIONS
All CASE mini excavators are supported by a full suite of CASE Service Solutions designed to maximise uptime and optimise performance, including the CASE Protect extended warranty and the CASE Care planned maintenance programme. This programme offers various durations and application coverage, as well as payment options, significantly reducing the total cost of maintenance. These services can be combined with personalised services such as fluid
mini excavator
sampling and periodic inspection, provided by expert technicians at CASE dealerships. The new CX38D comes equipped with an integrated telematics module, enabling realtime data transmission and smart alerts for dealers, customers and operators. This connectivity gives everyone useful insights into machine performance and health. CASE employs artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms to ensure uptime and enhance productivity. For CASE dealers, this means complete visibility and remote access to machine status. Alerts, reminders, and notifications help them proactively address customer needs. If a potential issue is detected, an alert is sent to the CASE dealer with specific recommendations and actions to resolve problems before they escalate.
On the customer side, CASE offers myCASEConstruction, a dedicated app and portal that goes beyond traditional fleet management. More than just a tracking tool, it provides a centralised platform for accessing machine insights, managing jobsites, and reviewing performance reports, enabling smarter decisions and greater control over operating costs.
MARKET APPEAL
With the addition of the CX38D, along with the smaller CX35D and the popular CX30D, CASE Construction Equipment has a compact crawler excavator to suit every application, across all industry sectors. The power, lifting and digging capability of a four-tonne machine, meeting Stage V emissions standards with no requirement for after-treatment, is a winning combination. Whatever the job site or the specific application, CASE has a compact excavator to meet all customer demands.
Zero tail swing design delivers high performance with extensive range of features and functions.
FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST,
REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI
RAISING THE INDUSTRY’S VOICES: KEY ENGAGEMENTS, URGENT PRIORITIES
In July the association met twice with Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins. On 8th July MPANI was delighted to host the Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, and other senior officials at Northstone Materials’ Craigantlet Quarry outside Newtownards.
It was a valuable engagement during which industry concerns over asset management budgets, the ongoing review of planning, the need for joined-up collaboration on delivering decarbonisation and the net zero targets were discussed.
We also showed the Minister the company’s new asphalt plant, one of the most modern in Europe, that can now deliver lower carbon road materials, thus helping both the company and the Northern Ireland construction sector deliver on its net zero targets.
The opportunity was taken to impress on the Minister the importance of working together with all stakeholders to identify and protect future access to aggregate reserves, support for responsible businesses in the procurement process, and the need for lower electricity prices for the manufacturing industry in Northern Ireland.
The Minister heard our members’ concerns about the recent judgement on the A5 and its possible impact on future development in Northern Ireland.
The negative impact and uncertainty the current Northern Ireland water funding challenges are having on the construction supply chain were also highlighted.
We met again on the 30th July in her offices at James House when we got into a more detailed conversation about the current budget challenges and future maintenance strategy. In terms of the meeting with the Minister, we made it clear to her that nothing had changed since we last met on 8th July.
We impressed on her the need for urgent decisions on the budget, including making an over-commitment at the very least by 15 to 20 million to get the industry through the next number of months and to protect our skilled workforce and business viability. She assured us that she was fully committed to addressing the shortfall in road maintenance allocations
and that a final decision, even almost half way through the financial year, had not yet been taken as she was not happy with the balance and she was continuing to pursue areas where funds could be used to increase road maintenance allocations for this current year.
We also highlighted the need for a more general focus on how the longer-term funding of structural maintenance can be achieved, including the use of road tolling and congestion charging (as part of the Transport Strategy 2035 currently out for consultation) can be used to help in growing the maintenance budget. We also acknowledged the Department’s willingness to engage with us the draft maintenance strategy but stressed the need for a fundamental restructuring of how DfI Transport and Roads Asset Management operates and delivers its statutory duties. We also highlighted the need for changes in the planning system to enable industry, such as the minerals sector, to decarbonise, and the need for a joined-up approach across the Executive to make changes to the energy market and grid connection process as this will help Departments like hers achieve their climate change targets and deliver on their action plans.
AS SEEN ON SCREEN
In late July we launched our new ‘Women in Minerals’ video highlighting, through testimonials, the rich and rewarding career opportunities for women in our great and essential mineral products Industry. We are embarked on a 3D transition of decarbonisation, digitisation and diversity. To view the video, search ‘Women in the mineral products industry - Mineral Products Association Northern Ireland (MPANI)’ on YouTube.
WHAT’S THE OUTLOOK?
The latest outlook from the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre (UUEPC) shows that business confidence in Northern Ireland is declining in response to domestic and global pressures. The report finds that rising labour costs, driven by increases in the minimum wage and National Insurance contributions, are placing strain on businesses. US trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the Middle East are further exacerbating the situation, weakening the labour market and stalling economic growth. Discussing the findings, UUEPC Principal Economist, Dr Myles Patton, said the business environment is “under significant pressure”
Gordon Best, MPANI
(L-R): Darren McMillan, MD Northstone Materials, David Porter, DfI Director of Engineering, Liz Kimmins, Infrastructure Minister, and Gordon Best, Regional Director, MPANI.
and that “wider economic concerns are mounting”. However, he added, “conditions are anticipated to slowly shift in a more positive direction, paving the way for a more growth-friendly environment”. Additionally, while economic growth is expected to remain slow this year, the rate of growth is expected to pick up in 2026 and beyond.
The most recent MPA Economic and Business outlook highlighted that the UK economy contracted for a second month in a row in May, with GDP falling by 0.1 per cent. The subdued growth outlook has been reinforced by business surveys which continue to emphasise consistently weak private sector activity this year. A softening labour market is further dampening the UK’s GDP growth outlook. Elevated fiscal pressures, which are raising expectations of tax rises in the autumn, have added to the potential downside risks. In terms of construction, the sector continues to face a number of headwinds. While new work has risen so far in 2025 compared to a year earlier according to the ONS, PMI business surveys for construction have revealed a more pessimistic view, with business activity falling in every month through the first half of 2025. Affordability remains the main obstacle to a housing recovery, while setbacks on highrise residential buildings reflect considerable delays at the Building Safety Regulator. The Construction Products Association’s summer forecasts were virtually unchanged on April, though risks to the outlook were judged to have risen significantly. Total construction output is forecast to expand by 1.9 per cent in 2025 and 3.7 per cent in 2026. MPANI members, via the MPA, recently responded to the association’s response to the HMRC consultation on changes to the landfill tax in England and Northern Ireland. Misguided tax reforms meant to reduce landfill would have a devastating impact on one of the UK’s key foundation industries, with a knock-on impact for UK construction and nature conservation.
SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES
The Mineral Products Association (MPA) has warned the government that its proposed changes to Landfill Tax, set to be introduced in 2027, risk triggering a nationwide shortage of aggregates, threatening quarry restoration plans and hitting construction with a double-whammy cost increase. MPANI have also raised concerns with local HMRC and DAERA officials.
Responding to the Treasury’s consultation, MPA has alerted relevant UK Ministers to the serious consequences of removing the ‘quarry exemption’, whereby inert waste materials that can’t be used in construction are exempt from Landfill Tax when used in the restoration of quarried land to create new areas of nature conservation or to bring agricultural land back into use.
The mineral products industry is a leader in recycling, recovering more demolition and excavation waste for use as construction aggregate than virtually anywhere else in Europe. Bringing in inert materials that have no other economic use, such as chalk, clays
and soils is important for operators to fulfil their quarry restoration commitments. Coupled with the proposal to transition to a single rate of landfill tax from 2030, the removal of the quarry exemption would add billions of pounds onto the cost of operating many of the UK’s quarries and delivering their restoration plans. That would render sites no longer economically viable either to operate or to restore. A significant number of quarries in England and Northern Ireland operated by MPA members are estimated to be at risk under the current Treasury proposals, threatening availability of essential materials and potentially leaving quarries unrestored for decades.
The UK consumes around 200 million tonnes of aggregates each year for use on their own in construction or as a key ingredient in concrete or asphalt – materials that are essential for transport, energy, water and defence infrastructure, as well as housing, education, healthcare and social care. Replenishment rates of mineral products are already at an all-time low; for example, for every 100 tonnes of sand and gravel sold in the last 10 years, only 61 tonnes of new permissions have been granted.
The removal of the quarry exemption would result in a reduction in overall national production capacity, given the added costs of operation and restoration. MPA says that costs would invariably have to be passed on, doubling the blow to construction companies and housebuilders who would also be faced with increased costs of disposing of their own inert waste.
The MPA calculates that the current proposals would add between £22,000 and £28,000 to the cost of building a new house, based solely on the additional cost of waste disposal. Some infrastructure schemes would face increased costs running into tens or even hundreds of millions of pounds.
According to the MPA, the transitional solutions proposed in the Landfill Tax consultation for sites to transfer to the ‘deposit for recovery’ regime are not possible under current rules. The association warns that trying to resolve permitting at each of the affected quarries individually is likely to overwhelm the Environment Agency given the short timescales, and the current “glacial pace” of issuing new permits.
TIME FOR ACTION
MPA argues that an alternative solution can be made to work but it will require the government to act swiftly and decisively given the 2027 deadline that has been set. MPA proposes that quarries currently operating under the exemption, which was introduced in the late 1990s, should be allowed to continue, while new applications to support restoration activity would have to be permitted as ‘recovery’ sites.
Mark Russell, Executive Director for Planning and Mineral Resources at MPA, said: “We can all agree that the Landfill Tax is in need of reform, but the Treasury’s proposals risk shutting down much of our sector and must be revised urgently. Quarries have strict planning conditions to ensure land can
be restored to good use after extraction – this relies on bringing in inert materials with no other use, such as chalk, clay or soils. Taxing these materials at over £125 per tonne is as damaging as it is absurd, and will result in worse environmental outcomes while adding significant costs to the delivery of infrastructure and housing.
“Our members already face long-term challenges to ensure a steady and adequate supply of essential minerals, but this reform risks triggering a serious materials crisis in this parliamentary term. Our industry recycle more materials per capita than almost anywhere else in Europe, and make good use of materials that cannot be recycled to restore land back to use. Not only does this enable the production of essential materials that the whole economy relies on, but also delivers more new areas for nature than any other industry. The government’s Landfill Tax reform proposals would make our sector’s contribution unviable in many cases, and we urge ministers to look at the sensible solutions we’re proposing, which include exemptions and regulatory fixes.”
A MATTER OF CONCERN
In other news, following a Freedom of Information (FoI) request, it turns out that officials from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) met with officials from the Department of Infrastructure (DfI) seven times between December 2023 and May 2024 to discuss “the factual and legal position around emission targets, carbon budgets and the Climate Action Plan”. DAERA also assisted DfI in preparing its response to recommendations made in a Planning Appeals Commission report in 2023. This required DfI to ensure that road development schemes were consistent with the targets set out in the Executive’s Climate Change Act. In June, a high court judge ruled that the A5 redevelopment project could not go ahead because it did not meet the obligations set out in the act. Daniel McCrossan MLA (SDLP, West Tyrone) said it was “inconceivable” that the Department did not take its climate targets into consideration when bringing forward plans for the project and called on Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA to “immediately” appeal against the court’s ruling. Minister Kimmins has previously told the Assembly “everything is on the table” with regard to advancing the redevelopment of the road.
Commenting on the publication of the DAERA Minister’s answer to the FoI request, I said: “From an industry perspective this is monumental incompetence of the highest order costing millions of pounds. There now needs to be a joint enquiry by the Infrastructure and AERA committees to get to the bottom of what happened.”
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. Take care and stay safe!
crushing & screening
QRS LEADS COLLABORATIVE EFFORT AT QUARRY SITE
QRS (Quarry & Recycling Solutions) was invited to tender proposals for a new crushing and screening plant at a quarry. Meticulously designed, the new plant was commissioned after an extensive on-site scheme of works.
Plant & Civil Engineer talked to Mark Fekkes, from QRS Ltd who is the Terex MPS Area Sales Manager for Ireland and Scotland. The Terex MPS and Terex Ecotech Range of products compliment the other products which are part of QRS Ltd distribution portfolio. The quarry produces aggregates that are part of the raw material chain for a concrete product asphalt manufacturing facility nearby. The contract was to design, install and commission a new, fixed crushing and screening plant at the quarry and, in the process, convert operations from mobile to static plant and move the power source from diesel to main electric.
INVESTMENT FOR FUTURE GROWTH
Mark Fekkes outlined the rationale behind the Investment. “The client views the quarry as one of its investment centres for business development”, explained Mark. Inverness is one of Europe’s fastestgrowing cities, both in population and economic growth. Manufacturing and services have expanded to meet the needs of the offshore oil industry. Other
sectors, including processing, agriculture, forestry, and electronics engineering are also showing strong growth. However, the expansion of offshore wind farming is likely to boost economic growth even more. Scotland is currently home to many offshore wind farms in various stages of development, some in operation, some under construction and others that are still in the planning pipeline.
The client wanted a plant that was fit for the expansion it is planning for. It was also important that the plant would deliver costeffective operating performance and meet the group’s wider sustainability objectives. There is wide industry awareness of the need to move away from fossil fuels and the increase in oil prices across the board following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, combined with wider inflationary pressures, that have impacted on many businesses. The government action to ban red diesel for manufacturing adds another incentive to move away from diesel power where possible. All of those factors influenced the client’s decision to move away from mobile plant and install a static plant that would be mains electric power.
SLOW SPEED SHREDDER
UTILISING HOMEGROWN TALENT
MEDIUM SPEED SHREDDER
QRS was appointed the main contractor for every aspect of the job except the civil engineering element. The QRS brief was to design, install, commission and hand over a turnkey plant. This meant QRS was responsible for detailing the process, design and layout of the plant, including all the structural steel, electrical and dust suppression requirements and, of course, managing health and safety for the nine-month build on-site. With such a wealth of expertise and ability relating to quarry plant and operations within Northern Ireland, it was not surprising
TROMMEL SCREENS
WASTE HANDLERS
CBI GRINDERS
CBI GRINDERS
that QRS called on trusted colleagues locally to build its subcontractor team. Mark Fekkes outlined the team that QRS assembled for the project. “QRS supplied the Terex MPS equipment for the plant, which included two cone crushers and three screen boxes, two 2-deck and one 3-deck, as well as the final aggregate bins. “To support the installation, we put together a very strong team. PM Engineering in
crushing & screening
TROMMEL SCREENS
Combining partnered excellence with QRS
an output capacity of 200 tonnes per hour.
The Terex Cedarapids TGS 220 cone crusher
RECYCLING SCREENS
RECYCLING SCREENS
secondary crusher, processing materials from 275mm feed down to produce a minus 55mm product. The TGS cone can accept a larger feed size compared to all other types of cones in the same power rating, and the steep angled head design accounts for an increased throughput in capacity and the ability to sustain a good wear profile throughout the crushers liner life which helps to maintain a consistent product from the crusher.
For the final crushing operation, QRS installed the Terex Cedarapids TG 320 cone crusher, which delivers the best cost-per-tonne cubicle product by selecting the optimum crushing cavity and eccentric throw to suit requirements. From a course secondary right through to fine quaternary, the TGS and TG series cone crushers consistently meet with all performance expectations.
For the screening operations, QRS installed three Terex MPS screens from the Simplicity SM series. The first screen is set up to be the scalping screen which is to produce a blinding material for stock and a 12x60mm feed for the TG 320 final crusher. Then the output is diverted to one of the two final screens, one for coarser fractions and other for finer fractions.
Mark commented, “Simply put, the Terex MPS Simplicity screens are high-quality and cost-effective inclined two bearing screen which delivered the customer products to their pre-set specifications. These screeners can be used across a broad spectrum of applications, yet they are flexible and can be customised to specific output requirements.”
TEAMWORK FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT
Most projects face some unexpected challenges, but the completion of the quarry aggregates plant remained virtually problem-free. Mark said: “The pre-planning and design were the keys to success in delivering this project and because
everything was planned and scoped in advance, there were no unknowns creating issues during the construction phase.
“While the foundations were being put in place by Torbet Plant Hire, we worked to install all the manholes and cables for power and water. What was unique about this site was how hard the rock on the quarry floor was. To overcome that, the client lay blinding to a depth of one metre to facilitate quicker and easier installation of the ducting for water and mains cables. This effectively negated the need for blasting and cutting through rock.
“After that and throughout the whole installation and commissioning project there were only a few problems to overcome, as could be expected with a
equipment. This rigorous approach to ensuring safety on-site was supervised by David Johnston of Jabez Safety Solutions.”
In short, meticulous planning, coordination and attention to detail, combined with a strong inter-disciplinary team ethos, made for the successful completion of the quarry project. SHREDDING | SCREENING | HANDLING
SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES SET TO COMPLETE ITS COMMERCIAL WORKSHOP SUPPORT PACKAGE
The introduction of a comprehensive tools & storage range
A new chapter of the year is upon us. Time to reflect, to consider what we’ve done so far, and what we’ve still got to get done. Over at SWS it’s been a busy six months. There’s been a renewed focus on the needs of the commercial workshop - The Workshop Essential is one example of this. Now in its third issue, this is packed full of workshop essentials - all in stock, all ready for same day despatch. This runs alongside the well established supply of workshop equipment. SWS have taken this to the next level, with
a full installation, servicing, training and certification package to ensure that the equipment is used in a safe and responsible manner and that it’s fully operational at all times. To complete the package, the first edition of the SWS Vehicle Workshop Tools & Storage catalogue is about to go to press, and will be ready for distribution by the time you read this. With 200+ pages of workshop tools and storage this premium catalogue is a ‘must-have’ for every workshop manager - make sure you get a copy.
QMS PROVIDES THE CONE CRUSHERS AND SCREENS FOR NEW FP McCANN QUARRY PLANT
Headquartered and based in Northern Ireland, FP McCann is the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of precast concrete solutions, owning and operating its own quarries to provide a variety of solutions to its extensive customer base.
In 2023, in order to improve its production capabilities, the company upgraded the plant at one of its quarries with the acquisition of two Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies (QMS) cone crushers along with screens for accurate material grading.
FP McCann employs around 1,600 people at its 12 UK-based manufacturing facilities. Through an array of wholly-owned and operated quarries in Northern
Ireland, it is able to supply its own and clients’ surfacing, ready-mix and precast plants with a wide range of heavy building materials.
In doing this, the company provides a wide range of sustainable and innovative product solutions that complement its standard package of products and services. This includes an extensive range of quality precast concrete
solutions for rail, power and infrastructure and building products, as well as architectural and structural products.
In fact, the company’s ability to deliver to client specifications on major projects across the UK and Ireland has ensured that FP McCann is a valuable and reliable partner, attuned to the requirements of its diverse and extensive customer base.
PLANT UPGRADE
The quality and reliability of FP McCann’s products and services are the foundation of its success, with team members constantly developing and improving solutions, while striving to exceed customer expectations.
The company’s foundations are based on sustained trust with its stakeholders, and by implementing its corporate values, aims to deliver through its products and services the very highest levels of customer focus. In order to achieve this, FP McCann constantly looks at its production capabilities so as to ensure it has the right equipment to do the job. In addition, the company looks to ensure that its equipment not only produces the right materials, at the right time, but also provides an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solution.
Due to the excellent relationship that has developed between Coalville, Leicestershire, head quartered QMS and FP McCann, when it came to look at upgrading the crushing and screening operation at one of FP McCann’s quarries, the Northern Ireland company had little hesitation in selecting solutions from the QMS offering.
After a series of site visits and assessing exactly what would provide the most cost-effective and efficient solutions for FP McCann’s requirements, QMS proposed supplying two of its B-Series cone crushers along a variety of screens. In addition QMS has been selected to provide parts, consumables, and aftermarket care for the crushers, screens and most of the quarry operation.
MODERN CONE CRUSHING SOLUTION
QMS’ B-Series range consists of different sized models that have been specifically engineered to deliver the maximum productivity with reduced operating costs. Designed, developed and manufactured in the UK and offering the best in engineering excellence, the B-Series is manufactured with high quality cast steel components and premium spherical roller bearings that directly contributes to reliability and high performance. One of the key features of the B-Series cone crushers is a unique hydraulic system which provides automatic overload
protection by allowing the head assembly to drop, permitting the passage of tramp iron and other non-crushable material.
The system then automatically returns the head assembly to its original position. The unique design of the hydraulic system means the crusher operates at a definite setting with less setting drift and greater stability throughout the circuit. The crusher setting is instantaneously maintained even after passing a piece of uncrushable material.
“A blend of high motor power, large eccentric throw and increased speed give the B-Series greater capacity than other crushers of comparable size, whilst the truly modern design creates excellent product shape and can be configured to maximise production of premium single sized aggregates,” said Jonathan Beck, QMS Managing Director, who added: “As we are able to support our equipment with our own engineers and have the industry knowledge to adapt any plant to suit the quarry, mine or aggregate plant’s unique requirements, we believe that our products and service provide the ideal solution whatever the size of operation.”
ACCURATE AND PRODUCTIVE SCREENING
In addition to the B4 cone crushers, parts and aftermarket support, a key component of FP McCann’s new quarry plant consists of four screens. These are two 2m x 7m double
deck screens and two 2m x 7m triple deck screens.
“Our quarry screens stand out for their ease of maintenance and heightened safety standards. Compared to other circular motion screens, the QMS screen offers maximum space between
decks. This design features significantly eases the process for operators during maintenance intervals, making it safer, more comfortable and more efficient,” explained Jonathan Beck.
Each component of a QMS screen is 100 per cent manufactured and built in-house by QMS, incorporating the latest in design and manufacturing techniques. This commitment to quality and reliability makes the screens a preferred choice for companies seeking efficient and effective screening solutions.
One of the key advantages of the screening equipment is the easy maintenance features and quick replacement of screening media, wear liners and spare parts. This design aspect allows for maximised uptime and the enhanced profitability of production, making QMS screens an asset for any quarry screen set-up.
“We are pleased that FP McCann selected our B4 cones and screens and delighted that the company is happy with both the production and the support we said we would deliver,” concluded Jonathan.
HYUNDAI HX19E: POWERING INNOVATION IN ELECTRIC COMPACT CONSTRUCTION
BY DAN GILKES
A growing number of manufacturers have been adding an electric mini excavator to their compact machinery line-up, offering rental companies and contractors an alternative to diesel power. Hyundai Construction Equipment has looked at what others have done and attempted to move the market on, with the launch of the HX19e.
POWER AND PRODUCTIVITY TO IMPRESS
Potential running times of between fourto-six hours of continuous use seems to be the norm in this market, with manufacturers claiming that few typical mini excavator customers will operate a machine intensively throughout a full eighthour shift. Hyundai’s HX19e mini offers a similar performance, with a 32kWh battery pack that can happily deliver over five hours of working time. But the company is also offering the machine with a larger 40kWh battery pack, that it claims can deliver up to 10 hours of typical mini excavator use. That should cancel any range anxiety.
The battery drives a 13kW electric motor, replacing the traditional HX19A’s 12.1kW diesel engine. That similar output means that the machine can offer competitive performance, with the same 16kN of bucket breakout force and a slightly higher 9.4kN dipper arm breakout force, when compared to the diesel model.
Apart from the driveline and a dedicated monitor in the cab, the machine uses standard HX19A bodywork and digging equipment, including a 1.75m boom and a 1.03m dipper arm. That gives the electric mini a maximum digging depth of 2,340mm and a forward reach of 3,940mm.
The excavator sits on hydraulically extendable tracks, providing a minimum width of 994mm when retracted, for easy access to confined working areas, extending to 1,290mm for maximum stability when working. Two-speed tracking offers a maximum travel speed of 3.7km/h, though extended tracking will consume battery power faster than digging or lifting.
As the machine does without engine oil, or any need for fuel, oil or air filters, the hydraulic circuit is one of the few areas that will require regular service and maintenance, cutting overall running costs for customers. Hyundai has equipped the HX19e with biodegradable Panolin VG46 hydraulic oil as standard, removing any risk of contamination from attachment changes or spills. Potential buyers of the electric mini have few options, just cab or canopy, 32kWh or 40kWh battery. Everything else, including hose burst safety valves on the main boom, dipper arm and dozer blade hydraulic cylinders, is standard. The machine also comes with two-way auxiliary piping, for use with a range of attachments and LED boom lights.
view from the cab
OPERATIONAL EASE
Operators get a mechanical suspension seat and an MP3 compatible radio with USB connectivity with the cab or canopy. Once on board, the HX19e provides a comfortable working environment, with good visibility all-round. Having turned on the ignition switch, the operator has to press a secondary safety button in the right-hand lever head, before lowering the hydraulic cut-out on the left-hand lever pod. This brings the hydraulics into play. There are directions on the new touchscreen to the right of the cab for those new to the machine. A rotary ‘throttle’ dial to the left of the driver controls motor output, although nothing actually happens until the levers are used. This is a secondary benefit of an
electric machine. Not only are there no exhaust emissions, but there is also very little noise, other than a warning sound to let others know when the excavator is tracking. Plus, there is no ‘ticking over’ so operators won’t be using fuel unnecessarily. The HX19e has plenty of digging power, breaking through compacted soils with ease. The machine is smooth in operation and it is easy to multi-function the levers to grade and finish cut a trench excavation. Indeed, in operation, other than the lack of noise and exhaust emissions, there is little difference between the diesel and electric models. Which, to some extent, is the idea of course. Getting companies to accept an electric machine is hard enough, having to alter the way that they work with that machine would be counter-productive.
view from the cab
CHARGING MADE EASY
The mini excavator is equipped with a Type 2 automotive charger, allowing users to charge from a car charging point or, with an adapter, from a standard domestic 230/240V outlet. This should make charging easy on construction sites, or for rental customers using the HX19e in a domestic situation. There is also a REMA DIN 320 input that allows rapid DC charging, when suitable electrical supplies are available. While the AC charger will take 4.8 hours for the smaller 32kWh battery and up to six hours for the larger 40kWh battery, the rapid charging circuit can be used to top-up the batteries in just two and 2.5 hours respectively.
Though using the HX19e designation, the compact machine can have an operating weight of up to 2,296kg, when equipped with a cab and the larger battery. That still allows towing to site on a 3.5-tonne trailer behind a van or pick-up, which will be an essential requirement for utilities and some rental businesses.
THE FUTURE OF ELECTRIC MACHINERY
Mass demand for electric machines has yet to really take off. Initial interest has focussed on the zero-emission aspect of the battery-powered machines, with demolition inside buildings and tunnelling operations
making the excavators an obvious choice. In both cases, exhaust fumes can cause operating issues and require expensive extraction equipment, something that can be avoided by battery power.
However, there will also be a growing number of contracting customers that either want to be seen to be reducing their carbon footprint, or are working for clients that insist on low, or zero-emission machinery as part of their tender requirements, particularly local government clients. Being able to comply with this demand for clean operations, without sacrificing any of the performance and productivity of a dieselpowered excavator, may be enough to sway an increasing number of operators.
There must also be an opportunity for those rental companies working with the non-professional weekend domestic market. Few home users will have the facility to refill a diesel machine’s fuel tanks while remodelling their garden or digging footings for an extension. They will all have an electrical power socket, however. There is of course a cost implication with electric machines, at least at the point of purchase. But things can look a lot more favourable when taken as part of a total cost of ownership calculation, with reduced service bills and operating costs factored in, depending on where you source your electricity. As we are seeing in the automotive market, price parity between fossil fuel and battery electric machines is getting closer, particularly in used markets and leasing costs in particular can be surprisingly low for some electric models.
The HX19e is Hyundai’s first all-electric mini excavator, but it will surely not be the last. With a range of more than a dozen compact machines, we can expect to see additional electric models coming to the market soon. Indeed, this transition is unlikely to be limited to compact sectors. Though demonstrating its abilities in the hydrogen-powered market at the recent Bauma exhibition, with the HW155H wheeled excavator, the company also had a 23-tonne battery electric concept on show.
Vito Crew Van
Comfort meets capability in every journey.
The Mercedes-Benz Vito Crew Van is where practicality meets comfort. With seating for up to six and generous load space behind, it’s designed for businesses that need to carry both people and equipment.
Mallusk | 028 9034 2411
Dungannon | 028 8772 2089
mbtvni.co.uk | info@m-btruckandvan.co.uk
UNLOCK CREW VAN SUCCESS WITH MBNI TRUCK & VAN
In this fast-paced sector, efficiency and reliability are paramount, and to support the attainment of these objectives, the choice of crew van remains a core component.
From effectively transporting workers and supporting your business, to carrying essential tools and contributing to comfort, the Vito Crew Van and Citan Panel & Crew Vans are the backbones of smooth and timely operations.
To shed light, the Sales Team at MBNI Truck & Van reflect on their experiences at the helm of the quality vans.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT HOW THE VITO CREW VAN DRIVES?
Honestly, it drives more like a car than a van. The steering is light, it sits comfortably on the motorway, and with up to 190hp available it’s got plenty of pull even when fully loaded.
WHAT INDUSTRIES DO YOU BELIEVE WOULD BENEFIT MOST FROM THIS MODEL?
I see it working really well for tradesmen, joiners, and electricians who need to carry a small team and their kit. But equally, I’ve sold them to shuttle companies and outdoor
businesses who like the flexibility of five or six seats plus over 1.4m of load space behind. HOW COMFORTABLE DO YOU FIND THE VEHICLE?
The comfort is probably what surprises most people, it’s car-level comfort. The driver’s seat has lumbar support, there’s climate control, and the cabin is well-insulated, so even long runs don’t leave you drained.
HOW EASY IS IT TO LOAD AND UNLOAD ITEMS FROM THE VAN?
It’s very straightforward. The Vito Crew Van comes standard with an up-and-over tailgate, which is handy for loading in bad weather as it gives you cover. The loading height is just 562mm, so you’re not lifting gear too high, and the side sliding doors are wide enough to take a Euro pallet.
WHAT MAKES THE INTERIOR SPACE STAND OUT?
It’s the balance between people and load space. With the crew van, you can seat up to six comfortably but still carry 1,350 litres of cargo in the back. If you need more space, the seats fold down, giving you over 4,000 litres.
WHAT IS YOUR FEEDBACK ON THE VITO CREW VAN’S FUEL EFFICIENCY AND ENGINE PERFORMANCE?
On the 114 CDI manual, you’ll get around 38–40mpg, which is strong for a van this size. The 2.0-litre diesel engines are smooth, quiet, and more than capable even when you’re fully loaded.
HOW HAVE THE VAN’S DIGITAL, INNOVATIVE INTEGRATIONS ELEVATED YOUR EXPERIENCE?
Things like the 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make day-to-day life easier. On the business side, PRO connect lets you track servicing, van location, and even fuel usage – very useful if you’re running more than one van.
WHICH SAFETY AND ASSISTANCE FEATURES DO YOU FIND MOST HELPFUL?
Crosswind Assist is brilliant on exposed roads, it really keeps the van steady. Active Brake Assist is a brilliant tool and others such as Parking sensors and the reversing camera are just everyday lifesavers.
WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE CITAN PANEL & CREW VANS?
The Citan is smaller but clever. In the Panel Van you’ve got up to 2.9m³ of load space with a load length of 1,806mm, while the Crew Van still gives you 3 seats in the back and 1.2m of load length behind them. Perfect for city work.
HOW DOES THE EXTERIOR COMBINE PRACTICALITY WITH TOP-CLASS AESTHETICS?
You get the practicality of sliding doors, rear barn doors, solid bumpers – but with Mercedes styling it doesn’t feel like a box on wheels. It’s sharp, modern, and a van you’d be proud to have your branding on.
HOW DOES THE INTERIOR MAKE LIFE NOTICEABLY EASIER FOR THE SECTOR?
Plenty of storage in the cabin, cupholders where you actually need them, and a dashboard that feels like a car rather than a workhorse. You can jump in and drive all day without feeling like you’ve been at work.
HOW CAN THE TECHNOLOGICAL ENHANCEMENTS BENEFIT THE INDUSTRY’S WORKLOAD?
Fleet managers can keep tabs on vans in real time, get alerts for servicing, and optimise routes. For drivers, things like navigation, phone mirroring, and voice control just keep life simple and safe.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THOSE WISHING TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE VANS FROM MBNI TRUCK & VAN?
My advice? Come and try one. Once you get behind the wheel and see the space for yourself, you’ll understand why so many businesses stick with Mercedes-Benz.
WHAT IF MY BUDGET DOESN’T STRETCH TO A NEW MERCEDES-BENZ CREW VAN?
At MBNI Truck & Van, we are part of the Mercedes-Benz Approved Used Van Scheme and can offer models up to six years old as Approved Used. The scheme itself won Best Approved Used Scheme at the What Car? Van and Commercial Vehicle Awards. Mercedes-Benz are extremely selective, and the preparation process is meticulous – right down to the thickness of brake discs and pads. Approved Used benefits include:
• 12 months’ warranty as standard (extendable to 24 months / up to 200,000 miles)
• Minimum three months MOT
• Comprehensive multi-point vehicle check
• MobiloVan 24/7 breakdown and roadside assistance
• MOT failure cover up to £1,500
• Vans no older than six years and under 150,000 miles at point of sale WHY CHOOSE A MERCEDESBENZ CREW VAN?
Mercedes-Benz Vans stand apart thanks to more than just build quality.
• MobiloVan: free roadside assistance included for three years, extendable up to 30 years with servicing at an authorised dealer. With an average call-out time under an hour, 90% of issues are fixed roadside
• Service packs and R&M packages: spread servicing costs at 0% or opt for full repair and maintenance cover for complete peace of mind
• Residual value: Mercedes vans hold their value exceptionally well, reducing total cost of ownership
• Parts availability: fast turnaround with local stock, overnight UK delivery, or 2-day shipping from Germany
• Business image: the three-pointed star enhances your brand’s professionalism and credibility
& lifting equipment inspections
SAFETY SIMPLIFIED WITH AMG PLANT TESTING
Timely testing and thorough inspections are essential for ensuring the safety, compliance and longevity of your equipment; remaining proactive helps protect your team and your organisation from costly issues and downtime. But against a backdrop of daily demands brought on by core company operations, navigating these areas can seem a daunting undertaking. Helping to convert these necessities into manageable actions and meaningful outcomes is AMG Plant Testing. Renowned for precision, professionalism and regulatory expertise, the company is continuing to carve out industry success as a specialist provider of statutory inspection, testing, and certification services for lifting and work equipment across the UK and Ireland. Fusing significant expertise in the inspection of plant machinery and lifting equipment with decades of industry experience in specialised testing, the company is a formidable force for the delivery of trusted and reliable safety-centric services.
COMPLIANCE YOU CAN COUNT ON
AMG Plant Testing, headquartered in Swatragh, Northern Ireland, with an additional depot in Stevenage, caters to a broad spectrum of industries, including construction, manufacturing, utilities, and engineering, helping them achieve compliance with key safety standards. Bolstered by years of industry insights, and a proud LEEA membership, AMG Plant Testing delivers professional on-site inspections, proof load testing, and equipment calibration, all carried out by certified engineers with advanced software technology. Their digital approach facilitates the issuance of realtime LOLER GA1 certificates and provides
clients secure, cloud-based access to inspection records via the CheckedOK platform – subsequently streamlining documentation, enhancing audit readiness and simplifying compliance management.
Attentive to the industry’s burgeoning schedules, AMG Plant Testing co-ordinates with clients to schedule inspections at convenient times, reducing downtime and maintaining smooth operations. Their on-site testing capabilities allow for the immediate replacement of any failed components, ensuring safety and compliance are upheld without interrupting productivity.
SUCCESS THROUGH SERVICES
AMG Plant Testing’s array of inspection and certification services for plant machinery and lifting equipment are poised to suit the specific demands of the construction, utilities and engineering sectors. The inspections are further strengthened by way of being conducted by experienced engineers in strict accordance with relevant legislation.
AMG Plant Testing’s portfolio of services encompass LOLER inspections, which verify that lifting equipment is safe, fit-for-purpose, and compliant, helping to prevent accidents and ensure sites remain audit-ready. PUWER testing is additionally performed to confirm that work equipment is safe and legally compliant by identifying faults and risks before they develop into serious issues. Customers can also avail of AMG Plant Testing’s proof load testing which demonstrates that lifting gear can safely handle its rated capacity, meeting legal standards and enhancing operational safety. Lifting accessories undergo thorough inspection and repair to maintain their safety and functionality in compliance with regulations.
The company’s PAT testing offering is crucial for ensuring portable electrical appliances are safe and compliant, reducing the risk of electric shocks and fires. Calibration services guarantee accurate readings and full compliance for essential safety equipment, such as gas detectors and CAT & Genny units.
loler & lifting equipment inspections
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
Alongside statutory testing, AMG Plant Testing provides fully certified lifting equipment, such as slings, shackles, and chains, with many items available for free same-day delivery. All equipment can be tested and tagged on-site for immediate use, and comprehensive inspection reports are automatically uploaded to the customer’s online portal, resulting in prompt access, compliance verification and seamless recordkeeping. By carrying lifting equipment both in-house and in their engineers’ vans’, AMG Plant Testing can replace any failed items immediately
during the inspection, adhering to its aim of keeping clients safe and fully compliant.
IN WITH THE NEW
Excitingly, AMG Plant Testing has recently unveiled its updated website – a dedicated online platform designed to showcase its offerings and make access to the company’s provisions easier, faster and more convenient for clients. The new site features expanded services, such as LOLER, PUWER, load testing, and more, along with an upgraded product range including slings, chains, shackles, and additional lifting equipment.
Clients can also benefit from a new Client Portal that provides instant access to certificates, reports, and renewal reminders. The site further offers industry news, compliance tips, and service updates to keep users well-informed, as well as an E Training Portal to support team training needs. Whether managing a site, seeking a reliable calibration partner, or stocking lifting essentials, the new platform has been designed with its clients at its core.
For more information, visit www.amgplanttesting.co.uk
SPOTLIGHT ON SPREADTEC SOIL STABILISATION BINDING AGENT SPREADERS
Through an ambitious R&D strategy, SpreadTec has recently refined its range of Soil Stabilisation TBM (trailed binder meter) automatic cement and lime spreaders.
The rising costs of materials, reduction of input costs, sustainability, high accuracy and tracability, and environmental pressures are all key drivers in geotechnical engineering, with an everincreasing demand for high specification binding agent precision spreaders.
“SpreadTec is a young, dynamic and evolving brand.” said David Murphy, MD of SpreadTec.
“The design and engineering team are continuously refining the technology
through testing and listening to market needs.” he added.
A highlight of the TBM range is the design of a new fully-integrated rear sealed cabinet onset to the existing series hopper which now safely houses the electronic and hydraulic control components. This new design, however, primarily includes the provision for the option of an automatically self-cleaning dust separation compressor and cartridge filtration system.
SpreadTec has an in-house design team who developed the software and electronic control system. The software features an automatic control system that dynamically adjusts the application rate to the ground speed,
for consistent material application rates and control of cement, lime and binding agent materials spread via a metering rotor regulator and auger applicator.
Unique features include operator optimal ground speed guidance control indicator and automated cleaning cycles for each main spreader component. The system can be remotely accessed to debug, monitor and screen shared with SpreadTec or Dealer support teams to both diagnose issues and guide the operator when required.
Key features include an intuitive in-cab main screen, dynamic application rate control, multiple product calibrations, data logging and remote telematic diagnostic support.
SpreadTec’s automatic hydro-electrical system incorporates a full suite of hydraulic controls and a vast array of safety interlocks. Every access panel to moving parts has been fitted with an interlock sensor, which does not permit the machine to run unless in the safe closed position.
The in-cab HMI display monitor indicates to the operator which specific access panel is not in its safe working position preventing accidental operation. The control system also monitors hydraulic pressure, stopping the system if there is a sudden pressure loss, also preventing trailed tractor driven machinery from inadvertent startups when spool valves are not set correctly.
A bird’s eye view of the working surroundings of the machine can be achieved with the optional surround view 360-degree camera system. In addition, a reversing camera gives the operator a clear view of the critical blind spot to the rear of the machine, vital when working in confined site areas along with an audible buzzer sound alarm.
SEAN MCKEE of J & S McKee Ltd. Civil Engineering Contractors in Portglenone, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland, has recently taken delivery of an automatic TBM 10 Auto as supplied by Laurence McMullan of McMullan Agri in Ballymoney.
“What stands out is the technology behind the user interface and the accuracy of the
hydraulically driven metering wheel and auger. We can record and export data very easily and log different jobs as tracebaility is a major part of any project we undertake. SpreadTec is a solid addition to the fleet,” said Sean McKee. The SpreadTec automatic and manual range of spreaders consists of trailed single and
tandem axle along with truck/ADT chassis mounted models available in 10 – 18m3 capacity sizes and can achieve spread application rates of 1kg/m2-50kg/m2.
For enquiries, contact Terry Reilly, SpreadTec, on +353 89409189, email terry@ spreadtec.net, or visit www.spreadtec.net.
Past President Karen McShane
GREENWAY PROJECT PROGRESS: A JOURNEY ACROSS BORDERS AND TIME
As we reach the end of the summer season, many contractors have either completed schemes or will be embarking on a new project.
As part of my CIHT role I had the pleasure of visiting the newly-opened Active Travel Link from Victoria Locks at Newry to Carlingford to visit one scheme that has just been completed.
Interreg has provided funding for the latest Greenway connecting Newry with Carlingford in Ireland, creating an 18km coastal walking and cycling route across the border with impressive views across Carlingford Lough. I had previously walked the 6.5km section to Victoria Lock Canal but as part of a joint CIHT / Engineers Ireland visit we had a preview of the new section that is nearing completion between the Locks and Omeath.
SUSTAINABLE AND ECOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Nicola McAlinden and Ciara Lappin from Doran Consulting, the designers, explained that this is part of the Dublin to Belfast active
travel greenway and that Louth County Council had appointed Glas Civil Engineering and A G Wilson to complete elements of the works. The highlight is a piled boardwalk as the preferred option to deal with some of the difficult sections where
level differences and ecological issues had to be overcome.
The innovative design used recycled gas line pipes from the oil industry as the 580 steel piles which were up to 13m in length. This was 98 per cent carbon-efficient as it was not the production of new steel but sustainable reuse of what was essentially a discarded product. Timber had been selected to give a near 50-year life-span so hopefully we will see this board walk survive as we did the Victorian promenades. The boardwalk section included 8.2km of handrail, 4km of piles and 4,100m2 of geo decking.
Carlingford Lough is an area of Special Scientific Interest and during the piling works the contractor had an ecologist on-site watching for mammals that may have been impacted by the piling. Any observations
King John’s Castle, Carlingford. Carlingford Greenway map.
All views expressed are personal views of Karen McShane and not necessarily those of any organisation in which she is involved
Karen at the concrete boat in Carlingford.
and the work stopped until they had left the channel. From Omeath the section of the greenway is open, and our visitors hired bicycles from “On yer Bike” at the marina and were able to cycle the section north to the new bridge location. The route here has been managed to create a link from Carlingford castle and will see a future extension onward towards Dublin.
HERITAGE AND HIDDEN HIGHLIGHTS
While at the bicycle hire you can look back to the marina and there is a strange arrangement of a gangway on to a boat and then from the boat down to the marina. Inquisitive me had to look and see: why was a boat here as part of the marina walkway?
The boat at the end of the walkway is indeed a concrete ship, known as Cretegaff, which is a First World War-era ferroconcrete tug, built in 1920 in Shoreham by Sea. She is one of only six tugs of her kind and the last floating survivor. I am informed that if you look closely, you can even see “Cretegaff” engraved on her bow. During the Second World War, the UK built around 495 ferroconcrete barges which were seen as affordable, used mainly as fuel or cargo lighters. They have a distinctive angular hull and a room-like superstructure visible along the deck. The ferrocement was a composite material of cement and steel mesh. While heavier than steel ships, they were cheap and used when steel was in short supply –especially during wartime.
The Warrenpoint shipyard in Co. Down (operated by J & R Thompson and McLaughlin & Harvey in Belfast) had built concrete ships during the First World War and likely constructed
Second World War barges too. Some vessels were launched here and used in Belfast Lough, Lough Foyle, and around Derry/ Londonderry, supporting naval logistics and Atlantic convoys. They were constructed by assembling pre-cast concrete panels into hulls around 84 ft long and 22 ft beam. This boat was originally named Cretegaff, then renamed Lady Boyne during her service in Drogheda after being sold in the 1930s. In 1988, she was towed from Drogheda and moored at Carlingford Marina. Initially it served as part of a breakwater and later was repurposed as a clubhouse and walkway support leading to the yachts. You still cross her hull to reach the pontoons, and she is very much an active feature of the marina.
LOOKING BEYOND
She is not the only vessel at Carlingford. Hippo 1 is also a Second World War-era concrete caisson – part of the Mulberry Harbour pierhead prototypes
designed in 1942 in Conwy, Wales by engineer Hugh Iorys Hughes. The Mulberry harbours were two temporary portable harbours developed by the British Admiralty and War Office during the Second World War to facilitate the rapid offloading of cargo onto beaches during the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944. They were designed in 1942, then built in under a year in great secrecy; within hours of the allies creating beachheads after D-Day, sections of the two prefabricated harbours were towed across the English Channel from southern England and placed in position off Omaha Beach (Mulberry “A”) and Gold Beach (Mulberry “B”), along with old ships to be sunk as breakwaters. Hippo 1 was later moved to Curran Quay, Larne, in 1952, then refloated and towed to Carlingford Marina in 1993, where it was deliberately scuttled to form part of the marina’s breakwater. At low tide, her hull and deck are visible from the
shoreline. Many barges were beached as breakwaters along UK waterways, and a few may remain in Northern Ireland waters. This is just one of the many features we will see as we progress with our active travel greenways. Concrete barges played a vital logistical role in the Second World War around Northern Ireland, built locally with ferrocement and employed for fuel and cargo transport. Though largely forgotten, their hulls may still linger in estuaries and dockyards, waiting to be rediscovered. As we look forward, how many of our concrete structures will survive this far into our future?
As we approach the start of a new CIHT year, CIHT Northern Ireland will be commencing evening meetings in September 2025. Please watch out for your programme card which should arrive at the start of September. Our events will be listed on www. ciht.org.uk or can be found by selecting ‘CIHT Northern Ireland’ into most search engines.
CIHT members on the new boardwalk at Omeath Greenway.
The boardwalk showing the gas pipe piles.
Members of CIHT starting their cycle on the greenway.
PLANTWORX 2025 SET TO SHOWCASE THE BEST IN CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AND INNOVATION
If you’re in construction and want to see where the industry is headed, you need to be at PlantWorx 2025.
From 23rd-to-25th September, Newark Showground will host over 300 exhibitors,
including leading OEMs and specialist suppliers – this is where machines are put through their paces, new ideas are shared, and business gets done.
See the industry in action with live demonstrations across a working
showground the size of 10 Premier League football pitches. Test drive the latest machines, explore cutting-edge safety systems, and speak directly to the teams behind the technology. Inside the indoor pavilion, a dedicated tech zone will showcase automation, connectivity and control systems designed to transform how construction sites operate.
Watch some of the UK’s top operators compete in the Awesome Earthmovers Operators Challenge in association with JCB. Visit the brand-new Site Sustainability Showcase – an initiative focused on practical, lower-carbon solutions, from battery storage to hydrogen-powered machinery.
And don’t miss the winners of the 2025 PlantWorx Innovation Awards, who will be exhibiting their industry-defining products across the showground.
This year’s line-up includes 16 of the world’s top 50 construction equipment manufacturers – an impressive show of strength for the UK’s largest working construction exhibition.
Big names like Caterpillar (represented by Finning), JCB, XCMG, Kubota, HD Hyundai and SANY are all confirmed, alongside Manitou, Fayat, Shantui, Takeuchi, Lonking, Sunward, Hidromek, Merlo, Yanmar – and, most recently, Zoomlion, the fast-rising Chinese OEM making serious international strides. Collectively, these brands represent over 30 per cent of the global Yellow Table – underlining PlantWorx’s growing international relevance and its reputation as a serious platform for business. The attachments sector is also turning out in force, with confirmed names including Rototilt, Miller, Auger Torque, Worsley Plant, Holp, OKB Attachments, Attach UK Ltd, BPH Attachments, Arden Equipment, Digga Europe, Con Mech Engineers and Movax. Watson & Hillhouse will also be on-site, showcasing the latest in pile-driving equipment. Whether you’re looking for earthmoving tools, demolition gear or compact solutions for tight-access
is where the industry comes together to experience the latest innovations in construction machinery and emerging technologies.
Construction leaders, buyers, operators and leasing companies meet to explore
cutting-edge solutions from manufacturers and innovators across the full spectrum of equipment,
technology and auxiliary services available to UK buyers.
Whether you’re buying, hiring or want to stay ahead of the curve, PlantWorx 2025 is the one show you can’t afford to miss. www.plantworx.yourticketpurchase.com/p/visitor.
plantworx.co.uk info@plantworx.co.uk
generation electric excavators, upgraded
PlantWorx is the only construction event supported by, and developed in consultation with, the Construction Equipment Association
compact equipment, hybrid tower lights and hydrogen-powered kit. You’ll also find fully-integrated telematics and control systems, alongside some of the most advanced safety technology available today.
SCAN ME
NEW RANGE OF COMPACT TRACK LOADERS FROM TAKEUCHI UK
Takeuchi UK make a welcome return to the track loader sector with a range of the most compact sized machines, designed and built to power a variety of attachments for construction, forestry, waste and agri sectors. This Takeuchi TL range is new to the UK but has many years of proven performance worldwide.
The four new models will be launched to the UK and Ireland in September 2025 with the TL8R-2 and TL12V-2 showcased at this year’s PlantWorx in Newark.
The TL6R and TL8R-2 with radial lift design deliver powerful bucket breakout force and excellent grading functionality. With a compact footprint these nimble machines can access all areas.
The next models, TL10V-2 and TL12V-2 with vertical lift design offer greater rated operating capacity for loading with extended dump reach and feature massive loader arms, oversized lift cylinders and pins to deliver maximum power performance onsite. Attachment-ready, the TL range comes complete with a 14-pin connector for greater versatility when using electro-hydraulic controlled attachments, such as planers, mulchers and augers.
For specialist attachments the TL range comes with high-flow as standard on the TL8R-2, TL10V-2 and TL12V-2. Creep-mode is a standard feature on the TL8R-2 model, ideal for tools that require a consistent travel speed, such as a cold planer or trencher.
The Takeuchi track loader range is designed from the tracks up. With excellent ground clearance, double planetary drive motors, fully welded under-carriage and no exposed hoses that deliver travel performance, productivity and durability on site.
Across the range Takeuchi’s pilot operated servo controls enable the finest of machine movements, critical when using attachments. All models feature a spacious comfortable cab for all day operating with adjustable high-back suspension seat and colour multi-information display. Good work zone visibility, LED lighting and rearview camera on all models.
You can be assured of Takeuchi’s renowned easy servicing on the TL range with ground level access tilt-up cab and
rear-mounted cooling system. Along with full three-year warranty* and free five-year TFM Telematics subscription. Takeuchi have long been in the game when it comes to track loaders, designing the world’s first compact track loader in 1986 with the TL20 and see potential for growth.
“In the UK, the track loader market has been gradually growing over the years, and we see big opportunities in this market. We are very confident that our proven compact track loaders deliver the maximum performance,” commented Daisuke ‘Yana’ Yanagisawa, Managing Director. Talk to your local dealer to find out more.
Three-year warranty * –see website for details.
Proven high performance compact track loaders Now Available from Takeuchi UK. TL6R • TL8R-2 • TL10V-2 • TL12V-2
Designed from the ground up to deliver power and traction for every attachment. Compact in Size • Versatile in Performance
KUBOTA PARTS REDEFINED WITH TERRAKO
Kubota (UK) Ltd has introduced a digital marketplace for customers, to streamline ordering of genuine parts using mobile or desktop devices. It is called Terrako and enables Kubota parts to be ordered through an online portal that also provides instant access to dealer stock levels.
“As an all-new digital marketplace, the development of Terrako has made it very easy and convenient for customers to order genuine parts for their Kubota equipment, even if they’re unsure of who their local Kubota dealer is,” explained Simon Chadbone, Kubota UK’s Division Manager for Parts. “This is particularly useful for those who are working away from base, for example contractors, as it can save the customer a lot of time while also contributing to a reduction in downtime.”
Access to Terrako requires customers to create a free online account, which also highlights the location of their closest Kubota dealers. Doing so gives the customer direct access to
engineer.
view dealer stock levels and recommended retail pricing, when searching for parts. Terrako also provides access to schematic drawings and parts numbers, simplifying parts identification and ensuring customers order the correct parts for their equipment.
Payment is made at the point of ordering, using secure online payment processes,
with customers receiving an email confirmation of their order. Customers can choose to collect parts from their nearest Kubota dealer, or request dealer delivery to site, or seek direct delivery from Kubota.
“It may be that the nearest dealer might be out of stock, but another Kubota dealer within easy reach may have those parts
sat on the shelf,” said Simon. “Searching with Terrako will speed up the process of finding and buying the correct genuine parts. And it’s operational 24 hours / day, seven days / week.”
Terrako offers more than just genuine Kubota parts supply. It can also be used to buy service kits, oils and filters, and will enable Kubota dealers to highlight promotional offers and create bespoke promotions for their customers.
“The introduction of our Terrako digital marketplace has now made it much easier for Kubota customers to buy the correct genuine parts without having to take the required items to a dealership for identification,” added Simon.
“With an online Terrako account, genuine Kubota parts can be ordered from anywhere, using any mobile device.”
The Terrako team will be with Kubota on stand B-32, B-33 at Plantworx, from 23rd-to-25th September, to support customers through the account set-up and parts ordering process.
JCB RETURNS TO PLANTWORX
JCB is returning to Plantworx – taking place at Newark Showground from 23rd-to-25th September – with a bumper line-up of machines aimed at the civil engineering, housebuilding, highways and utilities sectors.
Leading the way will be the recentlylaunched 145XR reduced tailswing excavator, unique JCB Pothole Pro, 558 260R Pro rotating telehandler, 4CX PRO DualDrive backhoe loader and the brand new 8008E CTS electric micro excavator. The 8008E CTS will be making its Plantworx debut. Designed for confined or urban sites, this compact electric machine delivers all the power and productivity of its diesel equivalent – without the noise or emissions. With a sub-1.0-tonne operating weight, extending undercarriage and a full day’s battery life, it’s easy to transport, quiet to run and simple to recharge.
The new models will feature alongside existing products from JCB’s excavator, backhoe loader, site dumper, compaction, access, generator powerpack and attachments ranges.
JCB’s technology showcase will also feature its world-first hydrogen-powered internal combustion engine. The company has invested more than £100 million to produce a range of super-efficient hydrogen engines. This pioneering project at JCB’s engine plant in Derbyshire has been personally driven by Chairman Anthony Bamford, who challenged the company’s engineers to make a major breakthrough in the use of hydrogen as a fuel for combustion engines. Away from the stand, JCB is headline sponsor of the Operator Challenge. Inspired by classic board games, the contest will test operators’ skills across eight precision-based activities.
JCB will be at Stand: EF-01a & EF-01b
JCB will be showcasing a bumper line-up of machinery at Plantworx.
Kubota
Panoramic 40.13 PLUS
Stable, Safe, Precise
us on Ave B Look for
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 live digital load chart, automatic attachment recognition, a large 10.1” colour display, integrated weighing system, and operator profile settings, making it ideal for high-reach lifting tasks in the industrial, infrastructure and construction sectors - ensuring maximum safety! The Merlo team and representatives from the nationwide Merlo construction dealer network will be on hand to demonstrate key features and answer technical questions.
4.0 12.5 115
Dealer Locator
plantworx 2025 preview
HYUNDAI CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT DEBUTS NEXT GENERATION AT PLANTWORX
Hyundai Construction Equipment will introduce three totally new machines at the Plantworx exhibition in September. Pride of place on Stand A-32 will be the HX360L Next Generation crawler excavator, seen for the first time in the UK. Also on display will be Hyundai’s first dozer, the HD130A, along with the company’s first battery electric mini excavator – the HX19e.
HX360L
Powered by Hyundai’s award-winning Stage V DX08 diesel engine, the HX360L is the first of a new range of Next Generation machines, delivering increased power, improved fuel economy and lower operating costs. The Next Generation excavators feature full electro-hydraulic (FEH) controls, that send an electrical signal to the main control valves, rather than using pilot hydraulics. FEH delivers increased operator control, faster reaction times and reduced fuel consumption.
Built on a completely new structure, the HX360L boasts a luxurious cab environment, with the availability of premium cooled and heated leather seating, new 12.8” high-definition touchscreen monitors and options that include smart digital keys and single lever tracking and steering functions. Hyundai’s popular Advanced Around View Monitoring (AAVM) safety system has been upgraded to AAVM+. There are now six cameras positioned around the machine, using Artificial Intelligence to automatically detect human presence within a pre-set working area. A Radar Detection Warning System, with three wide-angled radars, is also offered, capable of detecting people and objects within the operating zone. This
can be linked to an E-Stop function, that can control deceleration and even halt the machine, if the operator fails to react to audible and visual warnings in the cab.
With potential fuel efficiency gains of up to eight per cent, despite a 23 per cent boost in power, customers will also benefit from extended service intervals. Engine oil and filter changes are now doubled to 1,000 hours, with coolant changes at 6,000 hours and DPF ash cleaning set for up to 8,000 hours.
HX19E
Smaller in size, but no less ground-breaking, the HX19e is Hyundai’s first batterypowered mini excavator. The 2-tonne machine is the only mini in its class to be offered with a choice of battery packs.
A 32kWh battery will deliver around six hours of continuous operation, similar to existing machines in the sector. However, an optional 40kWh battery is available, allowing up to 10 hours of operation. The machine can be recharged using an automotive Type 2 AC connector, offering a recharge time of 4.8-6 hours, depending on battery size. Alternatively, the mini excavator comes with a DIN 320 DC connector, allowing DC rapid charging that will top up the battery in as little as two – 2.5 hours.
The battery drives a 13kW electric motor, which in turn powers the standard HX19A hydraulic system. The
machine delivers the same breakout forces and digging capabilities as the diesel model. The HX19e is offered with a canopy or a fully-glazed cab and can be carried to site on a 3.5-tonne trailer behind a van or 4x4.
HD130A
The HD130A dozer takes Hyundai into a new market sector, supporting the company’s excavators, wheel loaders and articulated haulers on site. Powered by a 117kW (157hp) diesel engine and driving through a two-speed hydrostatic transmission, the mid-weight model offers the highest power-to-weight in its class. Customers can choose between standard XL tracks or wider LGP running gear, with blade sizes of 3.54m3 and 4.18m3 respectively. In both cases the powertilt angle blade has six-way adjustability, allowing the operator to fine grade and shape with ease. A standard 2D Blade Dozing Assist Function is standard, making it easier for less experienced operators to achieve fine finish grades.
ALSO ON DISPLAY
Among other equipment on show, will be Hyundai’s popular HX25Az mini excavator. Launched in 2024 as one of an extensive range of A-Series compact machines, the popular 2.6-tonne model boasts a zero-tailswing design, that can be towed to site on a 3.5-tonne trailer. It is powered by an 18.5kW (25hp) engine, delivering digging performance and economy.
HX360L
Company Fined €270,000 Following Fatal Incident During Road Resurfacing
Judge Ronan Munro imposed a fine of €270,000 on a company for two breaches of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, following a work-related fatal incident which occurred during road resurfacing works in 2020. The company pleaded guilty to two charges under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005: Section 8(1) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 8(2)(e) of the said Act, as it relates to Section 77 (9) (a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. That is, as an employer, the company failed to ensure so far as was reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of its employees, in that it failed to provide a system of work in relation to the resurfacing of the roadway that was planned, organised, performed,
maintained and revised as appropriate so as to be, so far as was reasonably practicable safe and without risk to health and as a consequence the individual suffered personal injuries and died. This was in addition to Section 8(1) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 8(2)(a) of the said Act, as it relates to Section 77(9)(a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. That is, as an employer, the company did fail to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of its employees, in that it failed to manage and conduct work activities, namely the resurfacing of the road way in such a way as to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of its employees and as a consequence the individual suffered personal injuries and died.
The judge imposed a fine of €270,000 on the company on a breach of Section 8(1) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 8(2)(e) of the Act. The second charge, related to Section 8(2)(a) of the Act, was taken into account. Mark Cullen said: “Working in and around plant and equipment is one of the main contributing factors in workplace fatalities and serious non-fatal incidents. Work activities that involve plant and equipment must be planned and organised in such a manner that the work can be carried out safely. Employers must ensure that the plant and equipment used in the work activities are fitted with the necessary and fully-functional safety devices. Failure to do so can lead to tragic accidents, as can be seen in this case.”
Fine and Suspended Jail Sentence Issued
Following Fatal Workplace Incident
A company was recently fined a total of €100,000 at Dundalk Circuit Criminal Court, following a fatal work-related incident which occurred in 2023. The company’s director was also fined a total of €10,000 and handed two eight-month suspended sentences running concurrently. The accident resulted in an employee falling through a skylight on the roof of an agricultural building, landing on the concrete floor below.
The company had earlier pleaded guilty to four charges in breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.
The company pleaded guilty to Regulation 95(1)(a) of the
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (general Application) Regulations 2007 contrary to Section 77(2)(c) and 77(9)(a), in that it failed to ensure that work at height being carried out was properly planned, appropriately supervised and carried out in a safe manner.
The company also pleaded guilty to Section 8(2)(a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 8(1) of the said Act contrary to Section 77(2)(a) and 77(9) (a) in that it failed to manage and conduct work activities.
The company director pleaded guilty to four charges under Section 80(1) of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act
2005 in respect of the same four charges taken against the company. Two charges in relation to Regulation 95(1)(a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (general Application) Regulations 2007 contrary to Section 77(2)(c) and 77(9)(a) respectively and two charges in relation to Section 8(2)(a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 8(1) of the said Act contrary to Section 77(2)(a) and 77(9)(a) respectively, in that he failed in his responsibilities as a director of the company. Healthy and Safety Authority Interim CEO, Mark Cullen, said: “Working at height is an activity that all too often can lead to serious or fatal injuries,
when the work is not properly planned and where appropriate collective control measures are not put in place to protect those carrying out the activity. “Every employer must ensure that an appropriate risk assessment for the work being undertaken is in place. The risk assessment will help identify the risks and the necessary control measures that are required to prevent people falling from a height. Directors of companies have a responsibility to ensure that the work undertaken by their employees is carried out safely. Failure to do so can result in employees receiving life-changing or fatal injuries, as was the case in this tragic incident.”
Ecocem Senior Executive is Appointed First Irish President of the ICT
Ecocem Director of Concrete Technology Deployment, John Reddy, has been appointed to the role of President of the Institute of Concrete Technology (ICT), the international professional body for concrete technologists and engineers.
John is the first person from Ireland to hold the role of President of ICT, which has a term of two years, and follows his term of Vice President of the organisation since 2023. He will be joined by Veronika Elfmarkova, who becomes the body’s new Vice President, ahead of her becoming the ICT’s first ever female President in 2027. Elfmarkova is Head of Commercial RMX at Holcim and is based at the Group’s headquarters in Switzerland.
Speaking on his appointment, John said: “Now is perhaps the most exciting and critical time
to be a concrete technologist as demand is increasing for concrete in terms of performance, volume and net zero ambitions. I am honoured to take on the leadership of the ICT and it is my ambition to elevate further the status of the ICT internationally
and to see concrete technologists develop their roles in delivering solutions to improve further the concrete we use today.”
A native of Dublin, John becomes the 14th President of ICT. A regular speaker at international symposia, he has published a
number of international research academic papers and trade articles on concrete technology. His links to ICT date back to 2009, when he joined as a corporate member of the organisation on attaining a Diploma in Advanced Concrete Technology. He subsequently served on its council for several years including as Chair of Marketing and as Vice President for the last two years. He became a chartered engineer from Engineers Ireland in 2010 and completed an MSc in Advanced Concrete Technology in Queen’s University in Belfast in 2015, where his thesis was an investigation into thermal activation of low carbon cement. As Director of Concrete Technology Deployment, John is helping to drive the roll-out of Ecocem’s breakthrough technology ACT, which can deliver a 70 per cent decarbonisation of cement at scale globally.
Amey Secures Spot on Translink Framework Delivering Engineering Services in Northern Ireland
Amey has been awarded a place on Translink’s Professional Services Framework, a four-year, £40 million programme designed to enhance infrastructure across Northern Ireland.
As one of four appointed suppliers, Amey will apply its industry-leading systems thinking approach to deliver end-to-end engineering solutions across potential contracts secured under this framework. Services provided on behalf of Translink will include strategic site surveys, new infrastructure design, civil and structural engineering, line speed upgrades, and rail network electrification throughout Northern Ireland.
This new framework appointment further builds on Amey’s growing presence in
Northern Ireland and its long-standing partnership with the Department of Infrastructure, dating back to 2005.
The company recently announced a number of key strategic contract wins with the department including a £30 million engineering services consultancy partner contract with its Rivers division, as well as a £35 million engineering services consultancy contract with its Transport and Road Asset Management branch.
The news also follows a successful period of framework appointments, with Amey recently securing a spot on the Network Rail Development and Design Partnership Framework to deliver a range of infrastructure services, including professional
development, design and technical support to connect people, businesses, and communities in the north of England.
Susan Evans, Rail Sector Director for Amey, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to Translink’s Professional Services Framework. This appointment reinforces Amey’s commitment to supporting Northern Ireland’s ambition to deliver efficient, sustainable, and connected public transportation solutions. Leveraging our market-leading capabilities and expertise, we’re looking forward to supporting Translink in delivering high-quality infrastructure improvements that benefit communities across Northern Ireland.”
President John Reddy (left) with outgoing ICT President Colin Nessfield.
view from the cab
THE SANY STH742 IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH AT RECON RESOURCES
The SANY STH742 is the ideal companion for the completion of demanding tasks and precision work, whether it’s loading, moving, or stacking materials. Meanwhile, its high smooth operation and versatility – not to mention the superb comfort reaped by the operator – make it a trustworthy choice for a growing, ambitious, multifaceted company.
These factors were among the stream of considerations which prompted Portadown based ReCon Resources to purchase the telehandler, and add it to its expert fleet.
To find out more, Plant & Civil Engineer recently received the opportunity to visit ReCon Resources to view the impressive telehandler, as well as speak to Managing Director, Daniel Connolly, about how the purchase process unfolded, in addition to the extent to which the machine’s seamless combination of power, agility, and innovative technology have helped elevate their operations.
A MEANINGFUL IMPACT
Since its inception, ReCon Resources has evolved into a leading provider of comprehensive waste management solutions and products tailored to meet the diverse needs of residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Founded by Daniel Connolly in 2011, the company has grown steadily over the years and now employs over 30 dedicated staff members; all united by a commitment to develop innovative recycling and recovery solutions for waste streams that have historically been destined for landfills, as well as a passion for sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.
To support these endeavours, Daniel and his team have in recent years been seeking the expertise of the SANY brand. In fact, the company’s latest purchase of the STH742 is the fourth SANY in the company’s fleet – and in a monumental milestone, the first 7m SANY telehandler sold in Ireland. A reliable contributor to the company’s efficiency during projects, the telehandler is built for durability and performance, rigorously tested to maximise operational hours.
Remarking on how the precision delivered by the machines helps take his projects to the next level, Daniel explained: “The lift capacity is perfect for our tasks. As a very versatile machine, the telehandler is well suited for the work we carry out at ReCon Resources. We use it for loading up hoppers mainly around the cement plant, loading the concrete plant, as well as loading the aggregates into separation machines. The fact that the machine comes with its own pallet fork system means that it is also very handy for lifting and placing different sized pallets – it just takes a touch of a button.”
SANY AT SLEATOR PLANT
When seeking the latest extension to his fleet, Daniel turned to Sleator Plant – a trusted local provider of capital equipment, specialising in machinery for the construction industry, among others. Reflecting the far-reaching impact and popularity of its
provisions, the company is strategically situated just off the M2 motorway, north of Belfast, while its recently-opened secondary purpose-built depot just off the M50 beside Dublin Airport is already flourishing too – with all four corners of the island therefore being comfortably serviced.
Since 2015, and adhering with the team’s vision to be the leading construction dealer in Ireland, Sleator Plant has been strategically cultivated to incorporate world-class OEM partners. Particularly commanding brand stature is SANY, the fifth largest manufacturer of machinery in the world – and Sleator Plant was at hand to showcase its offering of telehandlers to the ReCon Resources team.
Daniel said: “We bought our first digger from Sleator Plant at the end of 2021. Sales Executive Brian McCartan enquired as to whether we were in the market for one, and at that time we were – so he invited me to
Daniel Connolly with the SANY STH742.
Sleator Plant for a test drive. After that, Brian rang me up, informed me that Sleator Plant had the first of the 155 into Ireland, and asked whether I wanted to go down and be one of the first to view it. I went to see it, really liked the machine, and before we left we had purchased two new diggers from Sleator Plant on that given day.”
Following that initial step, ReCon Resource’s collaboration with Sleator Plant only proceeded to strengthen – and with it came a burgeoning appreciation of the SANY brand itself.
“SANY was a brand I didn’t know much about until I started buying the machinery – but once you start looking into it, you can see that they’re one of the biggest machine manufacturers globally. To find out more, a couple of years ago Sleator Plant invited us on a customer trip to China to see SANY’s manufacturing and innovation first-hand.
SANY is a force to be reckoned with – we got to see how they are pushing ahead in innovation and R&D,” continued Daniel.
“What was also impressive was how eager SANY was to hear our customer feedback and thoughts on the machinery, as well as how they can improve going forward. Our experiences are taken on-board – you can even see the tweaks and modifications SANY make based on feedback over a short space of time. For other manufacturers, this could take years or they would just close their eyes and ears to it all.”
The Sleator Plant team were eager to have the chance to amplify SANY’s global presence and impact to a valued company like ReCon Resources,
explained Jonathan Campbell, Managing Director of Sleator Plant.
“Daniel is a pioneer of the local industry. He was the first to buy a SY155 excavator from us and now is the first to purchase the SANY 7m telehandler. I think this came from the trip to China with us as the visit gives you a sense of the size and scale and ambition of SANY.
“SANY is always seeking to be better – it wants to keep improving and being ahead of the curve, and it has the facilities to do it. We’re seeing this with every new model launched and it’s exciting to be a part of it.”
PERFORMANCE ON THE JOB
This trip sparked Daniel’s awareness of the impending launch of the STH742 in Ireland and set the wheels in motion for his attainment of the machine this year.
SPECIFICATIONS IN FOCUS
ENGINE
Model: Deutz TD 3.6L
OPERATING WEIGHT: 8,325 kg
PERFORMANCE
PARAMETERS
Maximum lift capacity: 4,200 kg
Lift capacity at maximum height: 2,500 kg
Lift capacity at maximum reach: 1,300 kg
Lift height: 7,000 mm
view from the cab
And synonymous with SANY’s highquality reputation, the 7m telehandler is already a prime addition to ReCon Resource’s significant operations.
Performance is particularly harnessed through the robust 55 kW Deutz engine that delivers excellent power and fuel efficiency without exhaust treatment requirements. The telehandler provides exceptional maneuverability on the job site, and boasts smooth, rapid multi-function boom control, enabling precise and efficient handling in demanding working conditions.
The operator’s cab of the telehandler is a standout feature for any user – and the ReCon Resources team is no exception. It offers an exceptionally comfortable working environment, especially due to the integration of an adjustable air-suspension seat, an inclinable and telescopic steering column for optimal positioning, and a 10-inch touchscreen colour display with encoder control for intuitive operation.
Daniel explained: “We did price machines from other manufacturers but the SANY
telehandler had far better specifications of a machine at this level and is great value for money. It has a very spacious, comfortable cab – the aircon is absolutely brilliant and my team say that in the warmer months it is especially their go-to machine. The operator saying that they want to drive the machine is exactly what you want to hear.”
Additional amenities include a radio with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, as well as storage compartments within the armrest, along with cup and bottle holders.
“What may be considered extra for other machines comes as standard with this telehandler – there’s an iPad with full machine controls, from heating and radio, to a weight display. This is as well as a reversing camera, sensors on the back of the machine, and full LED lighting.”
The all-encompassing elements have been incorporated to fuse ambition with feasible pricing for the sector.
“There are lots of spectacular features on the telehandler that pleasantly surprise a lot of customers. The main aim of the
machine was to make it operator-friendly, comfortable, and to have everything at your finger tips. It’s a dream of a product for us to promote,” explained Jonathan.
“The telehandler is very good value for money, but that doesn’t mean that its quality is compromised. In fact, the quality is maximised because of SANY’s investment in its machinery. SANY is a lot more efficient in its manufacturing processes so the money goes a long way.”
ONLY THE BEGINNING
From start-to-finish, Daniel’s engagement with Sleator Plant has been faultless – and it’s a relationship that is set to continue thriving both in the short and longer-term.
“When purchasing a machine, service back-up is everything. If we ever have any issues, we can always get Sleator Plant on the phone and they will be straight out. Anything they say they will do, they honour.
“We plan to continue building our relationship with them and even possibly purchasing a couple more machines from them before the end of the year.”
Jonathan is similarly enthused about the companies’ evolving co-operation.
“Aftermarket is the bedrock of Sleator Plant. The aftersales services which we offer to customers have to be front and centre, and we’re proud of repeat customers like ReCon Resources because they firmly believe in what Sleator Plant can do.”
Meanwhile, Sleator Plant’s collaboration with SANY is set to charge down a continued aspirational path – carving out a greater mark on the industry.
Jonathan said: “There is a strong momentum with the SANY telehandlers across Ireland and ReCon Resource’s choice reinforces the ethos that valued blue chip customers are being savvy when they seek to choose SANY. We feel that the offering we have within the SANY telehandlers can quickly disrupt the market and the status quo and offer a real quality alternative for customers.”
SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK Halves Downtime
One of the UK’s leading waste management companies has said that it halved downtime for part of its mobile plant fleet, thanks to AssetGo.
SUEZ Recycling and Recovery
UK is a waste management company that collects, sorts, and recycles waste from households and businesses. It also composts, generates energy and manufactures alternative fuels.
The company wanted a fleet management platform for its plant equipment in its administrative region of central England, covering more than 100 machines. It turned to AssetGo, which created a bespoke solution for SUEZ.
“AssetGo was able to produce a solution that enables us to manage all our mobile plant across several sites in central England,” said John Hinton, Production Supervisor, based at the company’s Rugby facility.
SUEZ uses the AssetGo platform for defect checks and pre-use inspections of machines.
“If an operator identifies a defect – for example, a hydraulic hose is leaking – they can flag that on the system,” explained John. “They can also take a photo of the defective part, including the serial number.
“We can send that information to the equipment supplier, meaning they send the engineer out with the correct part. This is improving first-time fix rates and has at least halved downtime, possibly more.”
A standard feature of the AssetGo system allows SUEZ to record hours of operation, sending them an email alert for when a machine is due a service or a regular inspection.
SUEZ chose AssetGo because it was able to offer a bespoke solution and could manage multiple types of machinery from one platform.
“Across the central region, every SUEZ site has different machines in place,” continued
John. “Some of our plant suppliers offered their own systems but they didn’t fully integrate with ours. You can easily end up with four or five different apps for different brands of machine.
“With AssetGo, I get to work in the morning, open my laptop, then go to make a cup of tea. By the time I get back with my cuppa, I can see all the KPIs, including alerts. I can then take any appropriate actions and get on with my day.”
At SUEZ’s site in Rugby, the company has also added the facility’s fixed plant onto AssetGo, to enhance efficiency of daily checks.
The AssetGo software specialises in the fundamental aspects of fleet management compliance and converts them into simple, everyday checks for drivers. The system addresses core fleet activities such as daily walkaround checks, cost and accident reporting, fuel and expense tracking and tachograph analysis – among other key elements.
EMPOWERING INDUSTRY EFFICIENCY: QRS PROUDLY PARTNERS WITH ARDEN EQUIPMENT
Quarry and Recycling Solutions Ltd (QRS) are a Northern Ireland-based provider of advanced machinery and tailored solutions for the quarrying and recycling sectors.
QRS deliver environmentally-responsible equipment supported by expert consultation, after-sales service, and a client-focused approach. The team help operators enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and meet the evolving demands of modern material processing.
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE
QRS are the dealers and stockists for Arden Equipment in the island of Ireland, supplying a full range of hydraulic attachments, including shears, pulverisers, and grabs. These were recently showcased at CQMS and demonstrated live using a Terex Ecotec material handler.
Arden’s sorting grabs – particularly those for 20T and 24T waste handlers – are widely used by leading waste providers across Ireland and are featured prominently in the QRS hire fleet of material handlers. QRS stock everything from pins and bushes to complete grabs and
offers a professional fitting service to ensure seamless installation and performance.
With an esteemed reputation, Arden Equipment is a leading French manufacturer of hydraulic attachments for excavators and material handlers. Founded in 1956 and based in Charleville-Mézières, it is recognised globally for its durability and engineering excellence.
Arden Equipment offers the following range of attachments:
• Rehandling grabs for bulk materials like gravel, sand, wood, or general recyclable
• Hydraulic scrap shears and multi-tine grabs for fast, heavy-duty scrap handling
• Concrete pulverisers and sorting grabs for secondary demolition and material separation
QRS ARE THE DEALERS AND STOCKISTS FOR ARDEN EQUIPMENT IN THE ISLAND OF IRELAND, SUPPLYING A FULL RANGE OF HYDRAULIC ATTACHMENTS, INCLUDING SHEARS, PULVERISERS, AND GRABS.
• Multi-processors and demolition shears with quick-jaw systems for efficient structural demolition
Arden has consistently advanced hydraulic attachment technology through key innovations, such as:
• Quick-ja (QA) systems for fast, safe tool changes with minimal downtime
REVOLUTIONARY MOBILE EQUIPMENT FOR EVERY APPLICATION
• Ar system that controls dust at the source, improving safety and air quality
• Use of Har steel for extended service life and reduced maintenance
Arden attachments are designed for speed, reliability, and versatility – making them ideal for businesses involved in material sorting, rehandling, and recycling:
• Str control tools reduce material loss and maximise throughput
• Reduced downtime: systems allow rapid tool changes to keep machines working
• Improved safety: via Arden ‘Jet creates a cleaner, safer work environment
EDGE INNOVATE EXTENDS ITS LINE OF SCREENING SOLUTIONS WITH THE SCREENPRO S16
The SCREENPRO S16 is the latest addition to the SCREENPRO range from EDGE Innovate, following the successful launch of the larger SCREENPRO S18 in 2024. Building on the proven performance and robust design of its predecessor, the SCREENPRO S16 offers a more compact solution without compromising on efficiency or versatility.
Designed to handle feed capacities of up to 600 tph, the SCREENPRO S16 is ideal for mid to large-scale operations, delivering high production rates with precise screening. It features a 14m² screening surface, a wide oversize discharge conveyor, with adjustable screening angles from
14 and 20 degrees, ensuring both high throughput and exceptional product quality.
The SCREENPRO S16 incorporates a 4.9m X 1.5m (16’ x 5’) two-deck screen, with a heavy-duty feed hopper making it adept at both primary and secondary screening across a variety of materials, from construction debris to aggregates and recycled materials. This versatility is further enhanced by a range of screen media options, including woven mesh, punch plate, finger screens, and bofor (grizzly) decks, allowing users to tailor the machine to different feed materials and final grain sizes.
To meet the demands of recycling applications, the SCREENPRO S16 can be equipped with both over-band magnets and magnetic head drums for the extraction and recovery of ferrous metals.
With intelligent load management, a
low-level feed hopper, two or three-way split configuration, hydraulic folding conveyors, and a fully integrated power unit with large service access; the SCREENPRO S16 is engineered for ease of use and maximum operational uptime. The user-friendly control system, featuring sequential start/stop functionality, enhances both performance and safety. To ensure minimal downtime, the screenbox encompasses hydraulic lift-up functionality for a quick and efficient mesh exchange process, supported by full access walkways on both sides of the screen.
recycling & waste management
ENHANCED EFFICIENCY
The EDGE SCREENPRO S16 also offers added remote functionality for improved operator efficiency and safety. All major functions on the S16 including tracking, feed conveyor speed adjustment, sequential start up and hopper jacklegs can be remotely operated from a safe distance of up to 100m or in the comfort of the operator’s cabin.
Powered by either a Caterpillar Tier 4 Final / Stage V engine, the SCREENPRO S16 drive system provides the operator with a reliably, durable and fuel-efficient screening solution. In line with EDGE Innovate’s commitment to sustainability, the SCREENPRO S16 and S18 models are available with dual power and electric hybrid drivetrains for CO2 emission-free operation. As the second product to be released in the SCREENPRO range, the SCREENPRO
S16 offers the same level of reliability and innovation that EDGE Innovate customers have come to expect, now in a more compact form that meets the needs of diverse screening applications.
Steven Conway, EDGE Innovate Territory Sales Manager, commented: “During the research phase, we engaged closely with our distribution network to discuss specifications and the core requirements for our customers. I believe we’ve successfully designed and launched the SCREENPRO S16, which we feel is a robust, reliable, efficient, and is user-friendly. It’s also very easy to service, maintain and transport – features that we see as core requirements for any customer in the quarrying and recycling industries.
“EDGE Innovate will continue to widen our product offering through the SCREENPRO range, allowing EDGE to meet the varying applications and budgets of our customers.
The SCREENPRO S18 and now the newly revealed S16, illustrates our commitment to innovation. Expect to see future editions to this range in 2025 as the EDGE team continue to enhance our SCREENPRO offering.”
ABOUT EDGE INNOVATE
EDGE Innovate develops, manufacturers and markets sophisticated technologies for shredding, stacking, screening and sorting of primary and secondary raw materials in production processes and recycling. Their material-handling and recycling range is made up of reliable, durable and cost saving products with a wide range of mobile stockpilers, tracked stackers, tracked and mobile feeders, three-way screeners, trommels, low-speed waste shredders, picking stations, material classifiers, roll-sizers and truck off-loaders. Their product range allows their customers; to shred, screen, separate, stockpile and size a vast array of materials.
recycling & waste management
McBreen Environmental Leading the Way in Sustainable Waste Management with CDE
As the waste management industry prioritises sustainability, McBreen Environmental is helping more customers achieve their environmental goals while also reducing waste disposal costs.
With sustainability now central to decisionmaking, McBreen Environmental has invested in CDE’s innovative technology to enhance its eco-friendly operations.
A commitment to sustainable waste management
Since 2006, McBreen Environmental, part of the McBreen Group, has provided a comprehensive range of services, including tank cleaning, waste tankering, drain cleaning, and sludge and grease disposal. Using the latest technology, McBreen Environmental ensures the highest standards of service for customers across Ireland and the UK.
McBreen Environmental purchased its first CDE MSU:10 unit in 2018, initially for use in remote contracts, such as large tank cleaning projects, music festivals and Breffni Organics’ composting facility.
As McBreen Environmental’s business expanded and its customer base grew, the company invested in an additional unit MSU10:G in 2021. This unit allowed McBreen Environmental to serve more customers while improving efficiency and sustainability. As part of its continued investment in innovative solutions, McBreen purchased the D:MAXTM in 2024.
Enhancing waste processing
The CDE D:MAX is a multipurpose solid liquid separation unit, designed for a wide range of waste industries. It is designed and configured to be applicable in many waste industries from digester cleaning, gully waste and pumping stations and WWTP’s cleanouts, drilling muds solids separation and backup and emergency screening.
One of the D:MAX’s key benefits is its ability to recover up to 90 per cent of material, significantly reducing disposal costs for McBreen Environmental and its customers. It also features a dual screening system to remove oversize and grit.
Commenting on the benefits of the addition of the D:MAX, Richard Smith, Fleet Manager for McBreen Environmental, said: “The main aim for us was to increase production, reduce waste and be even more efficient. We have the option of moving the D:MAX anywhere in the UK or Ireland to sites that require a screening solution. The self-contained nature of the D:MAX allows for rapid deployment and operation for our customers.”
Between 2021-and-2024, McBreen Environmental was contracted to provide waste management services at a number of major festival and events across Ireland and the UK. Their MSU:10 and MSU:10G units played a vital role in handling waste from portable toilets, cabins and showers. Discussing the services they provide in waste management at these events, Richard added: “There has been a significant increase in the number of concerts and festivals across Ireland and the UK, we were contracted for many of these events. For smaller gigs we
would process 20-to-30 tonnes of waste per night. At larger festivals like Electric Picnic, which hosts over 85,000 attendees, we handled up to 1,400 tonnes of waste on site using the MSU:10. This process not only ensures efficient waste management but also contributes to sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of waste disposal.
“We have also used CDE’s MSU:10 range to service large concert and festival events such as Marley Park, All Together Now in Waterford, The National Ploughing Championship and Independence Festival in Cork.”
Further investment in sustainable technology
After seeing the benefits of CDE’s technology, McBreen Environmental recently invested in a D:MAX mobile screening and classification unit, which ensures maximum solids removal and dewatering of waste, further enhancing efficiency.
Additionally, the D:MAX can support in reducing carbon footprint and transport costs as its mobility can facilitate processing in-situ. In recent years, McBreen Environmental has seen an increased focus on sustainability, with more customers wishing to repurpose waste, as explained by Breffni Organics Account Manager, Noeleen McBreen, who said: “We’ve noticed that customers are increasingly prioritising quality over price when it comes to waste management. What sets us apart in the sustainability space is our commitment to a full-circle approach. Our services encompass everything from waste collection and transportation to processing at our state-of-the-art treatment facility.
“One of the key differentiators is our advanced screening process, where we carefully separate waste before it undergoes further treatment. After screening, the waste is processed in a centrifuge, transforming it into nutrient-rich compost, which is used for energy crops. This contributes to a sustainable, circular economy. Our focus on quality at every step, from collection to treatment, ensures that we meet the highest sustainability standards.”
Partnership with CDE
Fergal Campbell, Business Development Manager for CDE, added: “We’re delighted that McBreen have added the D:MAX to their fleet, ensuring that McBreen Environmental and its customers work towards sustainability goals. We look forward to continuing our partnership with McBreen Environmental and Breffni Organics and seeing how our technology can benefit the wider industry.”
Fergal Campbell, Business Development Manager for CDE.
material handling
ELECTRIFICATION AND MATERIAL HANDLING – A PERFECT MATCH?
Laura Hampson, Managing Director at Lancereal, a leading powertrain solutions provider and systems integrator for industrial and mobile equipment, gives an insight into advances in material handling, including the growing demand for electrification.
While we’ve witnessed more industries taking an interest in electrification and keeping a close watch on applications, perhaps one of the sectors to have embraced electrification more widely has been in material handling.
This market has embraced powertrain solutions for forklift trucks, electric tugs, conveyors, hoists, etc., through the use of electric traction drives and e-axles, pump motors and motor controllers.
Working with OEMs, we’ve seen first-hand that there is an increasing demand for developing solutions for forklifts to benefit both the environment and the end user. With advancing technologies manufacturers are dealing with shorter design cycles of around four years and due to the advancements of components, such as batteries, motor technology, sensors and safety mechanisms, there are more considerations for them.
We’ll come on to electrification, but first forklifts have massively benefited from advancements in sensor technology –where obstacles can be detected and avoided, greatly enhancing safety and operational efficiency. Sensors are also playing a part in the driver’s cab. Where they can monitor operator presence and use of a seatbelt for example to trigger alarms and/or inhibit movement, ensuring the correct safe use of equipment.
Moving onto electrification, combustion engines are being swapped for battery driven electric motors to reduce emissions. This can be a great benefit for operators, particularly when working in an enclosed environment, as there are no fumes and noise is significantly reduced.
In addition, if you think of a traditional combustion engine there are a lot of moving parts and hydraulic pipes and a number of components – there’s a lot that could go wrong and maintenance is often costly and timely. By comparison, electric motors have significantly fewer moving components, which results in less wear and tear, lower
This is also something we’re seeing when working with OEMs who are keen to manufacture equipment that is safer, more efficient and environmentally friendly but don’t have the resource for the upfront investment that electric requires.
We’re seeing this being addressed in both the form of hybrid powertrains, as a transitional step, where a combination of battery and diesel is used. As well as working with OEMs to retrofit solutions to fit existing equipment. This enables older machines to transition to electric without the need for a full replacement – which may be the preferred route of many if / when legislations push
material handling
EASILY HANDLE THE MOST EXTREME LOADS WITH COMBILIFT
Combilift, the materialhandling specialist, offers safe and space-saving solutions for handling the most extreme loads! The Irish manufacturer has an extensive range of products, including multidirectional forklifts, straddle carriers, and mobile gantries, with load capacities ranging from one tonne to over 150 tonnes.
As a leader in innovative handling solutions, Combilift has exported over 90,000 machines to 85 countries. Their equipment is highly regarded for its robust
design and long operational life, even in challenging applications and diverse weather conditions.
HANDLING OVERSIZED LOADS
Among Combilift’s heavy lifting equipment are the CombiSC (Straddle Carrier) and the Combi-MG (Mobile Gantry), both capable of lifting and maneuvering extremely large and awkward loads. These machines are designed to tackle the challenges of lifting and moving heavy, oversized products within production facilities, warehouses, yards, or ports, particularly in
industries such as concrete, steel, modular construction, and offshore wind, among others.
A significant advantage of the Combi-SC is its much lighter unladen weight compared to other pieces of heavy-duty handling equipment. This enables operation on poor and semirough terrain, avoiding the need for costly investment in ground resurfacing or improvement. Further benefits are low fuel consumption, three-wheel manoeuvrability and excellent all-round operator visibility for models fitted with a driver’s cab.
Sustainability is a top priority for everyone. A significant advantage of the SC product range is its light footprint, making them extremely fuel-efficient. Additionally, their large punctureproof flotation tyres greatly reduce ground pressure, allowing them to operate on all floor conditions, including poor and semi-rough terrains. This, in turn, eliminates the need for ground resurfacing. The ability to optimise storage capacity and avoid costly ground resurfacing reduces both the physical and carbon footprint
Combi-SC.
of a site while eliminating the need for unnecessary greenfield expansion, and its associated costs.
MULTIDIRECTIONAL FORKLIFTS TO HANDLE LONG LOADS
The Combilift C-Series range of multidirectional forklifts
has load capacities of up to 25 tonnes. These forklifts are designed for safe, space-saving, and efficient handling of long and bulky products in confined spaces. Robust and built to last, the C-Series operates as “three forklifts in one,” replacing multiple types of trucks, which significantly reduces the fleet
size required and eliminates time-consuming double handling, improving your workflow.
In line with the growing demand for electric-powered equipment, Combilift continues to expand its now extensive range of electric forklifts. The multidirectional Combi-CB70E is the latest addition to the range. With a 7t
lifting capacity, it is the most compact counterbalance forklift in the market of its capacity. Visit www.combilift.com to discover how to optimise your space and enhance the sustainability and safety of your material handling operations, regardless of the load size!
To
Combilift C-Series: the original multidirectional forklift.
Combi-SC: ideal to handle the heaviest and bulkiest loads as well as containers.
MAJOR PERFORMANCE UPGRADES ON DEVELON WHEEL EXCAVATORS
Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has announced a number of upgrades for the company’s wheel excavators from 14-21 tonne which significantly boost performance, improve safety and enhance operator convenience.
The upgrades have been introduced on the five medium-heavy models from 14-to-19 tonne, all of which are now new ‘K’ class models, including the DX140W7K, DX160W-7K, DX165WR-7K, DX170W7K, and DX190W-7K. The upgrades on the largest DX210W-7K 21 tonne wheel excavator became available in July.
INCREASED PERFORMANCE
Like the DX170W-7K, engine power for both the DX140W-7K and DX160W-7K models is now provided by the Develon DL06V Stage V engine, resulting in an 11 per cent increase in output to 113.6 kW (152 HP) at 2000 RPM, matching that in the DX170W-7K.
The DX165WR-7K reduced radius model is powered by the Perkins 1204J engine, offering 102.1 kW (137 HP). Completing the range, the DX190W-7K and DX210W-7K are again powered by the Develon DL06V Stage V engine, providing 129.8 kW (174 HP) and 141 kW (189 HP) at 1900 RPM, respectively.
UPDATED COMPONENTS FOR HIGHER SPEEDS AND TRACTION FORCE
In the new DX140W-7K and DX160W-7K models, there is an updated main pump system, increasing the flow supplied to the travel components. In these models and the DX165WR-7K, there is also an
improved travel motor for a wider range of displacement and an enhanced transmission system to release more torque to the axles. This has raised the travel speeds possible on roads and hills (without the loss of any power) and also an improved overall travel acceleration and traction force.
NEW 12-INCH GAUGE PANEL IN OPERATOR CAB
Inside the new cab space, operators now benefit from a larger 12-inch Gauge Panel, upgraded from the previous 8-inch version. Featuring a full HD resolution of 1920 x
1080 px and powered by the Android 10 operating system, the display offers crisp, high-clarity visual images. The new splitscreen functionality enables the integration of multiple functions on a single interface, improving operational efficiency. The enhanced screen visibility reduces eye strain and fatigue, while delivering vital information more clearly – ultimately supporting safer and more informed machine operation.
HIGHER SAFETY
To meet the EN474:2022 safety standard, a rear/ right view is always displayed
material handling
while the machine is in operation, regardless of the driving or working mode, provided that the camera offers a view to the rear / right. A side and rear view camera option ensures both camera screens are always visible simultaneously, whether in half view or full view.
There is also a new Smart All-Around Viewing Monitor (SAVM) option, whereby the top view is always displayed simultaneously when selecting Rear, Right and Right Corner Views to comply with EN474 legislation. The term ‘Smart’ indicates an improved AVM specification with added person detection for enhanced safety on top of the existing AVM option specification, utilising footage captured by four cameras, to reveal workers on site close to the machine.
NEW AI-BASED TECHNOLOGY IN THE SAVM SYSTEM
The AI-based technology in the SAVM system is able to effectively identify both moving and stationary individuals in close proximity to the machine. Upon detection, the system promptly alerts operators through a combination of visual signals
and audible alarms on the monitor, ensuring a heightened awareness of the surrounding environment. As well as the SAVM capability, there is a radar option installed on the upper structure monitored from the cab. While the previous WEX-7 models have an ultrasonic sensor, the WEX7K models have a rear radar sensor. Maximum detection range has been increased to 6 m (from the previous 2.7 m), with a yellow warning zone from 3 to 6 m and a red danger zone below 3 m. In the DX165WR-7K, due to interference from lower attachments, such as the dozer blades, this model can only provide cautions across distances from 3 to 6 m. Only people around the equipment are detected and marked with a triangle symbol.
All the new WEX-7K models offer an undercarriage / trailer hitch ready option, which provides a configuration to attach a trailer for loading and unloading attachments, for example. The functions provided by this option include a trailer hitch mounting (dozer / outrigger); a trailer hydraulic
brake connection line (rear brake branch); a lower harness line configuration for the trailer lamp connection and trailer dump up/ down and tail gate open / close functions.
material handling
BOBCAT INTRODUCING NEW LITHIUM BATTERIES, FORKLIFTS AND WAREHOUSE EQUIPMENT
Bobcat has announced three new developments in the company’s material handling range, including new lithium batteries, new warehouse equipment range (Class 3), and a new series of lithium 3-wheel counterbalance forklifts. These new developments add to the company’s comprehensive material handling product lines, including diesel, LPG and
electric forklifts, reach trucks and warehouse equipment, such as pallet trucks and stackers.
INTRODUCING BOBCAT LITHIUM (LI-ION) BATTERIES
Bobcat has announced the launch of the company’s new Li-ION battery range, available in various capacity options. This reliable, high-quality battery technology has been developed by Bobcat and will be installed in each series.
With a lifespan two – three times longer than lead-acid batteries – plus fast, efficient charging –lithium battery power can ensure that work can be kept flowing more flexibly. Moreover, with a five-year/10,000 hour warranty and seamless forklift integration, Bobcat’s lithium batteries deliver lasting value for any application.
Key specifications include:
• 400 and 600 Ah available for each voltage
• Integrated with truck CANBUS, no need for a separate display
• Cell chemistry: LiFePO4 (LFP) = Lithium iron (ferro) phosphate
• Heat management system applied
• Monitoring and diagnostics app available
NEW BOBCAT LI-ION CHARGERS
The battery range is complemented by new Li-ION Chargers from Bobcat. The chargers are optimised for quick and reliable charging, ensuring equipment is powered and running efficiently. Where the customer needs a rapid standalone charger, Bobcat Li-ION Chargers provide the flexibility and performance to keep operations running smoothly.
NEW WAREHOUSE EQUIPMENT (CLASS 3)
Bobcat is updating its warehouse equipment portfolio with three new product series. In addition, the company’s current LSM12N-7 and BSL12/16N-7 stackers are now available in initial lift versions. The new warehouse products will also be available with Li-ION batteries from production.
• BSR16N-7i: powered platform stacker truck with initial lift: 1.6 t capacity
BOBCAT’S FIRST LI-ION 3-WHEEL FORKLIFTS
The company is introducing the BNT series, Bobcat’s first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts, designed for light to medium-duty applications. These models - B16NT, B18NT and B20NT - offer a costeffective, eco-friendly solution tailored to the growing electric forklift market. The new range extends Bobcat’s electric counterbalanced line-up.
BOBCAT R-SERIES WASTE EXPERT TELEHANDLERS SHOW
THEIR
METTLE IN WASTE
AND RECYCLING
MARKETS ACROSS EMEA
Bobcat Waste Expert telehandlers are more than proving their worth, providing outstanding material handling performance for the most demanding applications in the waste and recycling industries.
Complementing the company’s successful construction and agricultural products, Bobcat offers four Waste Expert machines, based on the TL35.70, TL34.65HF, TL38.70HF and TL43.80HF models from the company’s latest R-Series range of telehandlers. All are powered by Bobcat 74 or 101 kW (99 or 135 HP) engines and offer lifting capacities from 3.4 to 4.3 tonne and lifting heights from 6.3 to 7.5 m.
STURDY, EFFICIENT AND EASY-TO-OPERATE
Bobcat telehandlers are already well known as sturdy, efficient and particularly easy to operate machines and these are essential features for working in the intensive industrial applications found in the waste management and materials recycling industries.
Clement Rousseau, Product Manager for Telehandlers, commented on the Waste Expert range, saying: “The Waste Expert range is based on our latest market-leading R-Series family of telehandlers, offering superior
machines that combine all-day comfort, maximum productivity and reliability, intelligent features, a robust build with intuitive operation and excellent 360o ergonomics.
“Waste and recycling businesses need versatile machines that can handle a large variety of tasks, manoeuvre well in tight spaces and provide maximum efficiency in full safety throughout the working day. With the toughest design on the market, impressive bucket breakout forces, efficient cooling systems, a low centre of gravity and a long wheel base to enhance stability and lift capacity, our Waste Expert telehandlers are ideally suited for the waste and recycling markets.
“Like all our machines, the Waste Expert telehandlers are made for the hardest jobs, whilst still providing all the agility and versatility any application would require. In the HF models, the very robust machine build is combined with high flow capability for unmatched loading productivity and lift capacity.”
Recycling and waste management sites are tough working environments so the equipment they use needs to be up to the challenge. As a result, Waste Expert machines are even more robust,
with heavy-duty Dana Spicer axles and additional reinforced protection, making them the toughest on the market.
They also incorporate an extra large boom head, a high tensile steel boom, boom cushioning and protected hydraulic rams under and inside the boom. Like all Bobcat telehandlers, the Waste Expert machines have a box welded frame to meet heavy duty cycles and offer a high ground clearance, with a bottom plate along the entire length to protect vital parts.
In addition, Waste Expert models are equipped with additional features for working in harsh conditions, including:
• A protective grill for the windshield and roof
• Protection for the work and road lights
• Extra protection for the fuel and oil tanks
• Inner boom dust protection
• Tilt cylinder protection
• An FNR control on the joystick and steering wheel lever
• An auto fan inverter
• An extinguisher
• A white noise back-up alarm
building towards net zero
Komatsu Commissions First Diesel
Trolley
Power Agnostic Truck
Komatsu, in collaboration with Boliden, has announced the commissioning and start of field trials for the first diesel trolley truck in its new power agnostic series.
The Komatsu Power Agnostic 930E truck was officially deployed on 23rd April at Boliden’s Aitik Mine in Gallivare, Sweden, marking a major step forward in the journey towards decarbonising surface mining operations.
Unveiled at MINExpo 2024 in Las Vegas, the Power Agnostic 930E haul truck garnered significant attention for its modular, futureforward design. The truck displayed on the show floor was earmarked for Boliden’s Aitik copper mine, marking the first truck to undergo mine site testing. Now operating at one of Europe’s largest and most productive open-pit copper mines, this next-generation haul truck is set to undergo a 12-month field trial.
Built on Komatsu’s new modular platform, the Power Agnostic (PA) 930E offers flexibility and future-proofing. The PA platform enables customers to begin with diesel power and later transition to alternative energy sources, such as battery-electric or hydrogen fuel cell technology, depending on their operational needs, technology readiness, and pace of decarbonisation
efforts. The integration of diesel trolley assist functionality further enhances performance by reducing fuel consumption and emissions, while paving the way for a future electrified mine.
“Integrating the Power Agnostic 930E into our fleet reflects Boliden’s ambition to be at the forefront of sustainable mining,” said Jonas Ranggard, Senior Project Manager, Boliden.
New Chief Executive Officer of UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard
Katie Clemence-Jackson has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard Limited – the company that has been established to own and manage Buildings Standard (the Standard).
The Standard is an initiative backed by the BBP, BRE, Carbon Trust, CIBSE, IStructE, LETI, RIBA, RICS and the UKGBC, which establishes a definition for a net zero carbon building for each of the main sectors and building typologies in UK real estate. The pilot version of the Standard was published in September 2024, and over 200 individual projects are currently involved in a programme of testing the detailed application of the rule book against real world issues of design, construction and operation.
In May 2025, an open tender and a PQQ was issued for the appointment of a
verification administrator in order to put in place a structure for building owners and occupiers to apply for confirmation of their conformity to the Standard, once Version 1 is published at the end of this year.
David Partridge, Chair of the Governance Board of the Standard, explained: “Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard Limited (NZCBS Ltd), is a not-for-profit company set up by the founding members behind the Standard, to own it and to operate the process of verifying compliance, as well as keeping the Standard updated and producing future versions of it. Appointing Katie Clemence-Jackson as our CEO, is a big statement of intent – her job will be to set up the executive secretariat that will run NZCBS Ltd and the Standard and ensure that its future is secure.”
Experienced in the net zero space, Katie Clemence-Jackson has been involved with the Standard for many years. She is a CIBSE member and the Chair of CIBSE’s
“Partnering with Komatsu on this pilot helps us explore innovative solutions that align with our climate goals while continuing to deliver productivity and performance. We see great potential in this technology and look forward to where it can lead us next.”
As a founding member of Komatsu’s Greenhouse Gas Alliance, Boliden is reinforcing its commitment to a more sustainable future. The upcoming trial will enable Komatsu and Boliden to gather detailed operational insights and learnings to advance haulage decarbonisation efforts further.
The learnings from this field trial will play a critical role in guiding future advancements in Komatsu’s poweragnostic line-up. This will support both companies’ shared ambition to decarbonise mining operations and drive progress toward a lower-emission future.
Sustainability Special Interest Group. She previously chaired the Standard’s Technical Steering Group, culminating in the publication of the pilot version, last year.
Katie commented: “Providing meaningful, measurable decarbonisation in the UK built environment sector is something about which I care deeply. Having previously chaired the Standard’s Technical Steering Group, I have seen first-hand the fantastic contributions that have shaped it; both from the Standard’s technical specialists, and from expert volunteers across the industry. In my new role as CEO, I will take the lead on continuing the Standard’s trailblazing trajectory, and building the firm foundations and connections it needs to continue making a huge impact across the country.”
A Komatsu 930E diesel trolley PA truck at the Boliden Aitik Mine.
Katie Clemence-Jackson.
McHALE PLANT SALES: COMMITMENT TO THE ‘CIRCULAR ECONOMY’
In a recent announcement, Komatsu, Komatsu Forest and Metso distributors, McHale Plant Sales, confirmed its commitment to the circular economy and to supporting equipment users and sectors whose businesses are focused on meeting growing demand for sustainable practices.
How they are doing this was explained by their Sales Director, Denis McGrath.
“Coupled with measures we have taken internally, and working with Komatsu and Metso, we will continue to promote the ‘sustainability’ message to which both leading manufacturers are already heavily committed,” he said.
As a leading executive with a top Irishbased distributor that has an expanding presence in the Irish, Northern Ireland, and UK markets, McGrath recognises that “Alongside the benefits that electric drive, emissions-free, low-noise operation bring to manufacturers and customers alike, developmental opportunities
enshrined in the concept of ‘reduce, reuse, recapture, reconstitute, and reprocess’ now being pursued widely within the construction and materials sector will increasingly lead to new processes, new equipment lines, and new opportunities.”
“Increasingly, the circular economy will continue to bring about change across-the-board and change likely to have special significance going forward,” McGrath believes.
As one of the biggest global challenges, climate change forms a large part of Metso’s sustainability focus – an area where, together with its customers, the Finnish crushers manufacturer believes it can play a significant role.
For global warming to stay within 1.5 degrees, it is widely accepted the world needs to achieve zero emissions by 2050. Reaching
global climate targets requires a significant decrease in CO2 emissions by increasing the use of renewable energy sources and production efficiencies. For energy transition to be successful, large investments in renewable energy generation, downstream power emissions, battery technologies and electric vehicles are needed – involving copper, nickel, lithium and other rare earth metals. Meeting this demand will require significant growth in minerals production.
As a leading supplier of crushing equipment and services, and given how energy intensive rock comminution and processing is, Metso’s approach to technology and innovation is of paramount importance to the company. Central to its sustainability efforts is its Metso Plus offering – products
building towards net zero
that are more energy and/or water efficient than benchmark technology.
Metso targets include reducing its own CO2 emissions with the aim of reaching net zero by 2030. In addition the manufacturer aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 20 per cent in logistics by 2025 and is also targeting that 30 per cent of its supplier spend by the end of 2025 is with partners who have also set a science-based emission target.
At Komatsu Construction, similar goals have been set. The Japanese manufacturer has committed to net zero emissions by 2050 and, by 2030, is targeting a reduction of CO2 emissions by 50 per cent from its 2010 levels of production and use of machines.
Komatsu’s commitment to the circular economy can also be seen in a number of enhancements to its product portfolio and equipment lines. These include improved fuel economy and stage V engines; the addition of hybrid machines to their range, with more to follow; and several electric models launched to date, such as the PC09e, PC33e, and PC210e excavators, with further units in development. In addition, the company is one of the leading organisations for R&D of hydrogen fuel cell technology in the construction and mining equipment sector.
Notable sustainability commitments have also been implemented at Komatsu Forest.
The manufacturer’s new production facility in Umea is now operational for wheeled forest machines, where production is not only carbon neutral but carbon positive.
Sustainable infrastructure for both goods and people is promoted by using the nearby railway siding for goods, while covered bike parking, electric car spaces and car sharing spaces are located conveniently close to the entrance.
With northern Europe’s largest solar farm on the facility roof, Komatsu Forest can produce 2.55 MWh of electricity. Surplus produced during the bright Northern summer nights is sold on, while heating and cooling needs are met by a geothermal heat pump. In addition, energy consumption in production is minimised by using motion-activated lighting and heat exchangers whilst production units and most workshops are climate neutral.
Here in Ireland, at distributor level, McHale Plant Sales has committed to implementing
a number of measures to promote sustainability practices of its own.
Last year solar panels were installed at both of the firms Irish depots – in Greenogue and Birdhill – along with longlasting, energy-efficient light fittings.
Maintaining a modern service van fleet, all vans are tracked to assist routing efficiency, whilst a number of all-electric and hybrid vehicles have been added to the Company fleet. In parallel, electric vehicle charging points have also been added at both depots. In addition, dedicated recycling points for metal, wood, cardboard, batteries, general warehouse and office recycling have been established, along with the installation of waste interceptors at its Tamworth, Greenogue and Birdhill depots for both storage and to enable the removal of yard waste.
Metso Electric drive flagship LT400 Jaw crusher.
building towards net zero ZERO BOUNDARIES: LIUGONG BEV EXPERIENCE MARKS STRATEGIC UK COMMITMENT
Held at LiuGong UK’s regional hub in Portsmouth, the company hosted a landmark event, Zero Boundaries: LiuGong BEV Experience, bringing together key partners and stakeholders to showcase its nextgeneration electric construction equipment and reaffirm its long-term commitment to the UK market.
The event welcomed industry experts, including Viki Bell, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), and Ross McNally, CEO of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, alongside key LiuGong dealers, customers, and representatives from leading industry bodies and regional business organisations.
A SMARTER, SUSTAINABLE VISION
Howard Dale, President of LiuGong Europe, reflected on the company’s global strategy
and the importance of the UK as a hub of international co-operation and innovation.
“We’re building a strong and sustainable future, across Europe and right here in the UK,” said Howard. “Our direction is clear. We are on a mission to empower people with intelligent, electric machinery and become a world-leading equipment and technology provider.”
Howard emphasised that this vision is underpinned by LiuGong’s Three TOTAL Strategy, a framework first introduced at Bauma 2025, built on the pillars of Total Globalisation, Total Solutions, and Total Intelligence.
LEADING IN BATTERY ELECTRIC INNOVATION
Harry Mellor, LiuGong’s European Product Director, outlined the company’s leadership in battery electric vehicle (BEV) technology, with over a decade of development and real-world application, outlining LiuGong’s roadmap for future expansion across both BEV and internal combustion engine categories.
“By 2027, all major product categories will be launched in Europe,” said Harry.
“And by 2030, we aim to cover 85 per cent of total industry volume. That’s what being a full-solution provider means for us.”
Harry presented the BEV Model Plan 2026, which includes 10 new machines, LiuGong’s first electric skid steer loaders, reach stackers, and forklifts for Europe, plus expanded excavators and wheel loaders, including the 95-tonne 995FE and 35-tonne 8110TE.
He also highlighted the proven BEV performance across UK and
Viki Bell, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association.
building towards net zero
European job sites, as well as the company’s innovations in battery, charging, and site energy systems. These are supported by the integration of AI, IoT, and ICT, enabling smarter, more connected job sites.
“China leads in BEV technology, and LiuGong is a leader in China,” Harry added. “But leadership isn’t just about innovation; it’s about application. Our electric machines have proven themselves on real job sites, with our highest-hour unit now exceeding 20,000 hours, a clear benchmark for longterm durability. If customers have any questions, we’re here to answer them. With over 10,500 BEVs in operation globally, we’ve got the data and experience to back it up.”
INDUSTRY INSIGHT AND LOCAL IMPACT
Viki Bell, CEO of the CEA, shared her perspective on LiuGong’s electric capabilities and the company’s growing role in the UK market.
“The range that LiuGong has is phenomenal, and the BEV capability I’ve seen today has pleasantly surprised me,” said Viki. “The partners LiuGong have brought together to put the whole package together are going to be key to unlocking the market. UK customers will be encouraged by hearing
from those already using the machines, as many operators now prefer them.”
She also spoke about the broader importance of the construction equipment sector to UK infrastructure growth, and the need for stronger government backing in zeroemission technologies. “The machines are there; now the government needs to step up and put the infrastructure in place so they can operate efficiently and effectively.”
Ross McNally, CEO of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, spoke on the importance of regional partnerships, skills development, and LiuGong’s contribution to supporting local enterprise.
“I’m proud to represent businesses across Hampshire as demonstrated by the kind of innovative activity LiuGong is undertaking in this wonderful city of Portsmouth,” Ross said. “We want to make sure that we continue to be there to help create and support what LiuGong is representative of: enterprise. To drive forward enterprise as our USP, and the driver of the British economy.”
STRENGTHENING UK PARTNERSHIPS
Hosting the event in Portsmouth, the home of LiuGong UK, served as a powerful symbol of the company’s long-term confidence
in and commitment to the British market. Company leaders reaffirmed their ambition to expand UK dealer coverage, enhance regional service capabilities, and deliver electric solutions tailored to local customer needs.
“The UK is a key market for LiuGong,” said Dean Thornewell. “We’ve built real momentum over the past few years, and our continued investment reflects our belief in its longterm potential. From growing our dealer network to delivering electric solutions, our focus is on building lasting partnerships and supporting sustainable growth.”
STRATEGICALLY EXPANDING UK PRESENCE
The event served as a platform to deepen partnerships and formalise forward-looking agreements. Paul Mitchinson, Head of Plant, Engineering & Asset Maintenance at Holcim UK, shared the company’s experience trialling LiuGong BEV machines.
“The experience we’ve had with the LiuGong machines has been very good,” said Paul. “We put the bigger machine, the 870HE, into one of our Southwest quarries, Callow, where the operators fully embraced the new technology. Now they don’t want to go back into the diesel area.”
Harry Mellor, LiuGong’s European Product Director.
Howard Dale, President of LiuGong Europe.
Ross McNally, CEO of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce. Dean Thornewell, LiuGong Machinery (UK) Ltd Managing Director.
building towards net zero
He recognised LiuGong’s support in configuring the equipment to operator needs. Holcim is now in a position to finalise a 20-unit electric wheel loader order for 2025, pending final approval from its global HQ, with additional units under consideration beyond 2025.
“I think the behavioural shift in the business is a big change. The product
itself is a very robust and powerful unit and will be key to supporting our carbon reduction programme going forward.”
A signing ceremony also marked several key developments reinforcing LiuGong’s growing momentum in the UK. This included the formalisation of a new dealer agreement with Dragon Plant Sales (Wales). LiuGong also recently announced a new partnership with Lloyd Ltd, now covering North West England and Scotland as part of its expanding UK dealer network.
LOOKING AHEAD
As LiuGong continues to roll out its strategic roadmap, UK operations will remain at the forefront, delivering global reach, full solutions, and intelligence-led technologies through its electric platform.
“This event was about setting a clear direction for the future, for LiuGong as a company and for the dealers and customers we support,” said Howard. “It gave stakeholders a comprehensive look behind the scenes, from our parts distribution centre to our technical and service support platforms.
“We’re confident in our strategy, proud of our progress, and committed to growing our presence across the UK and Europe. With the right people, partners, and products in place, we’re pioneering a smarter, more sustainable future for the construction industry.”
Paul Mitchinson, Head of Plant, Engineering & Asset Maintenance at Holcim UK.
LEADING THE
OUR 924FE EXCAVATOR, WITH ITS ADVANCED BATTERY SYSTEM, DELIVERS PROVEN LIUGONG PERFORMANCE WITH ZERO EMISSIONS. PART OF OUR WORLD-LEADING BEV RANGE, FROM WHEEL LOADERS TO DUMP TRUCKS AND BEYOND, WE BUILD FOR STRENGTH, EFFICIENCY AND A CLEANER FUTURE.
SCAN TO DISCOVER MORE
924FE Tunnel Specification Shown
building towards net zero
NEW RESOURCES LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT SMES WITH ENERGY RENOVATIONS
The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC), in partnership with Dublin Chamber, Sustainability Works, the University of Galway, and the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI), has launched a new practical and accessible set of tools to help Irish SMEs on their energy renovation journey.
Pat Barry, CEO of Irish Green Building Council, said: “Reducing energy consumption in commercial buildings just makes sense – it saves money, protects businesses from energy price volatility, improves indoor comfort, and enhances corporate reputation. Most importantly, it supports Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future. The resources launched today are designed to empower business owners to take that first step with confidence, understanding the supports and solutions available to them.”
Commercial buildings are among the largest contributors to Ireland’s carbon emissions.
In recent years, the sector
has undergone significant operational shifts, with SMEs facing a combination of financial, technical, and behavioural challenges in reducing their energy use. The new Business Energy Upgrade resources suite directly addresses these barriers, providing SMEs with practical guidance, financial tools, and real-world inspiration to act.
The suite includes:
• A decision-making toolkit to guide businesses through the upgrade process
• A technical and financial analysis tool with data to support planning and investment decisions
• A financial handbook outlining available grants, tax supports, and loan options
• A basic starter guide for SMEs, including practical tips for beginning their energy upgrade journey
• A selection of case studies showcasing successful commercial building upgrades
Laura Heuston, Co-Founder, Sustainability Works, speaking at the launch, said: “Energy costs are the strongest driver for SMEs looking to make energy upgrades to their premises, but unfortunately, one of the main barriers stopping them is the cost of the upgrade measures themselves. This guide, launched today, provides businesses – both owners and occupierswith the simple and necessary information to understand how energy upgrade measures can be financed, the support available, and the business case for pursuing energy upgrades.”
Gerard O’Toole, President of the Society of Chartered Surveyors, commented: “Our goal in developing these case studies is to bring real-world clarity to SMEs, building owners, occupiers, and other stakeholders on what energy upgrades look like on the ground. By capturing the details of SME energy renovations, the SCSI is helping to raise awareness of how property upgrades can reduce both energy costs and carbon emissions. This resource
also equips our members and their clients with the technical insight and practical examples needed to plan smarter, costeffective energy renovations.”
Danuka Anagipura, Research Assistant at University of Galway, also added: “Starting energy upgrades within your business is not only a step towards reducing operational costs, but also a commitment to long-term sustainability. We encourage SMEs to make full use of the toolkit to guide and support their renovation journey – from understanding energy use to planning, financing, and monitoring. This toolkit is designed to empower businesses with clear, practical, and relevant information, helping them make confident, informed decisions every step of the way.”
The Business Energy Upgrade suite is part of the ENACT initiative, supported by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. All resources are now freely available to download by visiting www.constructinnovate. ie/enabling-commercial-retrofit.
L to R: Gloriana Vargas (IGBC), David Howard (IBEC and Chair, ENACT Steering Committee), Paddy Moloney (Sustainability Works), Laura Heuston (Sustainability Works), Danuka Anagipura (University of Galway), Aravindh Krishnan Ramesh (SCSI), James Lonergan (SCSI), Maria Deady (Dublin Chambers), and Sinéad Hughes (IGBC). Photo credit: Barry Cronin
SITECH SUPPORTS UK TRANSITION TO RENEWABLE ENERGY ON SUBSTATION PROJECT
Advanced construction technology specialist, SITECH UK & Ireland, has played a major role in supporting Hunter Environmental, a division of Hunter Plant Hire, during the delivery of complex infrastructure works for a major renewable energy scheme in Worcestershire.
The project, a 132kV substation at the JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, is now in its final stages, with only the retaining wall and dress stone finish remaining. Once complete, the substation will support the site’s connection to the National Grid. This connection will enable the transmission of clean energy to the grid, supporting the UK’s transition to renewable power.
Hunter Environmental provides contract services, labour, landscaping and agriculture services across utilities, civil engineering and land remediation sectors. To support the Doverdale project, Hunter Environmental partnered with SITECH to deploy GPS-enabled dozers for high-accuracy grading and UAV drone technology for up-to-date site surveying.
Liam Omalley, Director at Hunter Plant Hire, said: “With support from SITECH, the Doverdale project highlighted our capability in delivering technically-demanding energy infrastructure. SITECH ensured our dozers were fully equipped with Trimble® machine control, and that our operators received full training as they began work with topsoil stripping and preparation, installing stone fill to create a stable working platform to support operations.
“Trimble machine control technology helped our operators improve labour efficiency when laying reinforced concrete foundations, and during the
integration of ducting and drainage systems. The centimetrelevel accuracy of the technology was also a vital asset during the installation of a CESS tank and rainwater harvesting system to manage runoff and maximise sustainability. Another key element where the technology helped with vital precision was the construction of the NGED control room, designed to house critical operational and monitoring equipment for the substation.
“The Trimble positioning systems provided the team with accurate 3D visualisations which improved visibility, safety and productivity in the installation of a 400m long 132kV cable route. This required accurate excavation, trenching and cablepulling to establish a robust grid connection. Communications ducting and associated
infrastructure were also laid to ensure operational connectivity.”
The Doverdale 132kV substation is crucial to stepping down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines at the Doverdale Solar Farm to lower voltages for distribution. SITECH provided not just the technology but also comprehensive support and training, introducing Hunter Environmental to the Trimble Stratus platform for advanced UAV-based site monitoring.
Phillip Matchett, Technical Sales Representative at SITECH UK & Ireland, commented: “We worked closely with Hunter Environmental to support them in choosing the right kit to meet the needs of the project, as well as setting up the machines and supporting operators in how to use it effectively.
“By adopting high-quality drone surveying technology with Trimble Stratus, Hunter Environmental has been able to make use of real-time, accurate progresstracking, detailed site surveys and access to frequent volume data around stockpiles, excavations and other site features. The use of real-time positioning systems and automated machine control has also contributed to reduced fuel consumption and minimised material waste, alongside fewer reworks and improved accuracy.
“Our partnership with Hunter Environmental, and the integration of digital tools with on-the-ground expertise, has helped ensure consistent quality, precision and safety on this project, which is all the more meaningful given it is an essential piece of infrastructure in supporting the UK’s transition to renewable energy.”
The JBM Doverdale Solar Farm, now in its final stages, will support the site’s connection to the National Grid.
building towards net zero
DROMAD HIRE EXPANDS ELECTRIC FLEET WITH NEW SPECIALIST ACCESS EQUIPMENT
Expanding its powered access range, Dromad Hire has introduced new electric and compact access platforms that deliver enhanced sustainability, safety, and efficiency on job sites.
Dromad Hire has continued its investment in the latest equipment throughout 2025, enhancing its already diverse fleet with a range of new electric machines and specialist solutions. The latest additions are aimed at supporting evolving customer needs across multiple industries.
From compact electric scissor lifts to articulated booms with zero-emission operation, the new additions further reinforce Dromad Hire’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and performance. Fleet additions to date include:
ELECTRIC SCISSOR LIFTS
Snorkel S3013 – a compact 13 ft scissor lift ideal for tight indoor spaces
Skyjack SJ3219 – a popular 19 ft model offering reliable performance and battery life.
Skyjack SJ3226 and SJ4726 –both standard and narrow 26 ft electric scissor lifts added to meet high demand.
ELECTRIC BOOM LIFTS
Snorkel A38E – 38 ft articulated electric boom with up-and-over outreach, perfect for indoor and zero-emission job sites.
Dingli AMWP7.6-8100 – pusharound mast lift designed for one-person operation in confined areas.
Dingli AMWP11.5-8200AC –
30 ft vertical mast boom, offering precise control and compact performance for indoor or tight-access work.
A STRATEGIC FOCUS ON CLEANER, SMARTER EQUIPMENT
“We’re continually evolving our fleet to meet the practical needs of our customers, while also looking toward a more sustainable future,” said Ronan Cotter, Operations Director at Dromad Hire.
“These latest additions reflect growing demand for compact, electric, and specialist machines that deliver on both performance and environmental responsibility.”
Whether working at height indoors or on sensitive job sites, Dromad Hire’s updated powered access range helps customers work cleaner, safer, and more efficiently.
Skyjack SJ3219.
Snorkel A38E.
building towards net zero
MERCEDES-BENZ TRUCKS SPARKS NEW LIFE INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY’S LIVE FUTURE
In a bold step towards a more sustainable live music industry, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, in collaboration with AEG and KB Events, played a pivotal role in helping the LIDO Festival achieve its ambition of running entirely on green energy.
Massive Attack headlined the first night of the nine-day East London festival with a set that was achieved with 100 per cent battery electric power. Power for lighting, sound and all the equipment required to put on the show for thousands of festival-goers came from batteries.
It was yet another landmark moment in sustainable live performance and the electric atmosphere wasn’t just produced by the bands, it was powering the whole show rather than using power from diesel generators, which is often the case at live events.
Jamal Chalabi, Tour Manager for Massive Attack and Head of Touring for a Greener Future, delivered the groundbreaking feat. His vision was to create a net zero live event and the three eActros 600 Electric Trucks deployed by the festival underscored a powerful message: the future of live music is electric.
“Food production accounts for 25 per cent of global emissions, and we waste half of what we produce from farm to fork,” Jamal
said. “But even with that in mind, it’s our generators, trucking, and travel that demand urgent attention. Electrification and the elimination of fossil fuels must become top priorities for the music and all industries.”
The three Mercedes-Benz eActros 600s, each with a range of at least 500km on a single charge, weren’t just transport, they were the logistical backbone enabling a net zero, world-class event.
The eActros 600 was perfect for the LIDO Festival and, as the International Truck of the Year 2025, it was praised by the drivers for its advanced powertrain, aerodynamics, performance and range. The Massive Attack Production Team, headed up by James Baseley, also used one of the eActros 600 trucks to transport production from depot to supplier to the arena and finally to the festival.
Stuart Jeggo, Sales & Marketing Manager of Daimler Truck UK Limited, commented: “Live music relies heavily on the transportation and logistics sector to make these events possible in different locations. We are very pleased that the performance and range of the allelectric eActros has helped to significantly reduce the environmental impact of the LIDO Festival. This is only the start of the work we are doing with the music industry as a whole, and an exciting step forward for the future of sustainable live music events, which is good news for everyone – and the planet.”
“Daimler Truck UK is very grateful to its dealer partners – Euro Commercials, Mertrux Truck & Van, Northside Truck & Van, and Rygor Auto – for providing the eActros 600 trucks. Their support played a key role in shaping the LIDO Festival’s green logistics efforts and advancing our shared commitment to sustainable transport.”
Three Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 electric trucks helped the LIDO Festival achieve its net-zero mission.
Jamal Chalabi.
HD Hyundai Merge Construction Entities for Global Expansion
HD Hyundai Construction Equipment and HD Hyundai Infracore will merge to form a new entity named HD Construction Equipment with a consolidated revenue set at KRW 8 trillion (USD 6.15 billion).
The decision to merge was made during separate board meetings held by both companies on 1st July.
An extraordinary shareholders’ meeting will follow, along with necessary regulatory reviews.
The merger aims to enhance agility in responding to market demands amid intensifying competition and global uncertainties while strengthening future
technological capabilities and ensuring cost-competitiveness.
The newly-formed company will operate under two brands: Hyundai and Develon. The core business area will be construction equipment, supplemented by growth in engines and aftermarket services. With balanced growth across all business areas, the company aims to achieve revenue of KRW 14.8 trillion (USD 11 billion) by 2030, positioning itself as a global industry leader.
Moreover, HD Construction Equipment will focus on strengthening fundamental growth, diversifying revenue sources and securing future growth engines through a unified decision-making process.
HD Construction Equipment aims to achieve economies of scale by optimising its product lines and specialising production facilities by region. At the same time, by expanding its compact equipment business, the company aims to establish a full line-up, ranging from compact to ultra-large construction machinery, thereby strengthening its fundamental business competitiveness.
To diversify revenue streams, the company will focus on fostering its high-potential engine business and expanding its aftermarket operations, which centre on parts replacement and maintenance.
Leveraging its integrated R&D capabilities, the company aims to secure future growth engines through the development
of electrified and smart construction equipment, as well as comprehensive total solutions. The merger will involve an exchange of shares: for each common share of HD Hyundai Infracore, shareholders will receive a designated amount of common shares, 0.1621707 in HD Hyundai Construction Equipment.
Cho Young-cheul, President and CEO of HD Hyundai XiteSolution, stated: “This merger will drive sustainable growth for the Construction Equipment Division of HD Hyundai, helping us strengthen our position in the global market and serving as a significant milestone in advancing Korea’s construction equipment industry.”
Schoolboy Finlay Gallagher has been crowned the UK’s youngest qualified digger driver – at the age of just 13.
The youngster spent his school holidays learning how to put a JCB digger through its paces and passed his Construction Plant Competence Scheme exam with flying colours.
He took the industry-recognised proficiency test on the world’s most famous digger – a JCB backhoe loader – at Flynne Plant Training Centre in Rochford, Essex, where he had to demonstrate a strong grasp of both the theory and practical aspects of operating the machinery. This included safely controlling and operating the JCB backhoe loader, digging and loading with precision, lifting and moving loads using the correct techniques and confidently handling attachments and forks fitted to the machine.
JCB digger driving is in young Finlay’s blood as grandad Pat Gallagher founded the family-owned aggregates, groundworks, civil engineering and property development company, Gallagher Group, more than 50 years ago with a single JCB 3C MK2 backhoe loader. Fast-forward half a century and the company has a fleet of more than 300 machines and employs more than 500 people. Finlay’s dad Stephen is a Director and hopes Finlay will one day follow in the family footsteps and join the business when he leaves school.
Finlay said: “I’ve loved diggers since I was really little – probably around three or four. My grandad Dave used to drive me around
in his dozer, while he did the pedals and I sat on his lap. Then my grandad Pat got me interested in excavators and backhoe loaders, which started my love of JCBs.
“I definitely see my future in the construction industry. My grandad Pat started the Gallagher Group, and it would mean a lot to me to play a part in helping the business continue to grow. This qualification is a great first step, and I’m keen to build on it by learning to operate more types of plant machinery.
“I really enjoyed the training. I liked learning how to use the JCB 3CX Plus backhoe loader and understanding what was needed to pass the course.”
Flynne Plant Training Trainer, Derek Mansfield, commented: “Finlay was one of the most enthusiastic and capable young candidates we’ve had. His control of the machine and understanding of how it operates was far beyond what you’d expect at his age. He picked things up incredibly quickly and showed real natural ability. He’s now officially the youngest person in the UK to pass this qualification, which is a fantastic achievement. The Gallagher family should be very proud. We’d welcome Finlay back any time to train on more machines, and I genuinely look forward to seeing where his skills take him next.”
Finlay added: “One of my idols is Georgina Williams from JCB – @the_happydigger on Instagram. I love watching her on the backhoe loader, so I decided to set up my own account, @digger_finngallagher, to share my journey and hopefully encourage other young people to consider a career in construction.”
To celebrate Finlay’s qualification, he was invited to one of the JCB Groundworker Days where he was presented with a special model gift from Lord Bamford to congratulate him on his achievement. He was then invited to debut with the JCB demonstration team where he drove the JCB hydrogen-powered backhoe loader as part of the opening routine.
JCB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “I wholeheartedly applaud Finlay’s achievement. He is a talented young man who has demonstrated at a very young age just how simple and intuitive it is to operate today’s JCB diggers.”
Finlay Gallagher.
BIG NORMAN’S GOLF DAY SWINGS INTO ACTION FOR FIFTH YEAR
Fusing camaraderie with meaningful causes, CP Hire recently hosted its fifth biennial charity golf day in memory of the company’s founder, Norman Hutchinson, affectionately referred to as ‘Big Norman.’
This year’s event raised funds for two crucial organisations: the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland and Ashes to Gold, a local charity based
in Coleraine. While final figures are still being tallied, total contributions are anticipated to mount to £25,000, divided between the two causes.
The event received heartfelt appreciation from CP Hire for the support showcased by customers, suppliers and friends both prior to and during the day. Described as a fantastic occasion by all in attendance, it featured great golf and memorable moments, all in honour of Big Norman.
The Lamont Trailers Team – second place.
The Ramore Team – first place.
The Turley Legal Team – third place.
Brian Scott Engineering – best dressed team.
The Hutchinson family.
The Wilsons Auctions Team.
The Crumlin Plant Team.
The NK Fencing Team.
The Jason Maguire Team.
The Glendun Plant Team.
Helpers Lisa, Tara and Shona.
The Lamont Team celebrating.
Helper Richard Livingstone on BBQ.
Enjoying the bar at the 10th hole.
Global leader in energy solutions, Aggreko, has strengthened its construction sector industrial HVAC support with the appointment of Chris Smith as Head of Temperature Control for the UK and Ireland.
With over 22 years of experience at Aggreko working across Europe, Chris is set to support construction professionals with temporary and supplementary cooling, heating and dehumidification requirements, along with the expertise to efficiently provide power to them.
This includes end-to-end solutions to support construction sites during maintenance works, system upgrades and in emergency situations so that downtime does not impact output.
The appointment comes as companies across the UK and Ireland continue to experience operational and process temperature challenges caused by changing weather patterns throughout the year.
With high temperatures spikes over the summer, there has been increasing strain on HVAC systems across industries, resulting in further demand for reliable and efficient temporary solutions while balancing vital maintenance and upgrade schedules.
To support sites across the UK with this, Aggreko has invested in its capacity to support construction professionals, both
in increasing its fleet of industrial HVAC solutions and developing the expertise to correctly implement equipment, so that sites can remain resilient.
With Aggreko’s extensive energy expertise, construction professionals will also be able to receive integrated solutions using the company’s innovative power and industrial HVAC process temperature fleet to boost efficiency and resilience. This includes leveraging the latest solutions from Aggreko’s
Greener Upgrades™ portfolio, such as hybrid industrial HVAC process temperature solutions using battery energy storage methods alongside stage V generators to save fuel, reduce emissions and improve reliability.
Chris Smith, Head of Temperature Control for UK & Ireland, said: “It’s great to lead our expert teams in supporting the construction industry, alongside contractors, engineers and energy managers working within them, across the UK and Ireland with their industrial HVAC and process temperature needs.
With unrivalled experience in the power sector, Aggreko is best placed to ensure that our solutions operate as efficiently and sustainably as possible to help our customers prevent any challenges that may present themselves throughout the year.
“We are able to also achieve better optimisation and efficiency to deliver both cost and environmental savings through data collected through our control and monitoring solution, Aggreko Connect.
“I’m ready to hit the ground running and help our customers futureproof their industrial HVAC process temperature solutions so that they can combat any weather throughout the year.”
From Standing Start to Top-Team: McHale Plant Sales Poised to Expand Metso Presence in UK Aggreko Bolsters Industrial HVAC Support for Construction with New Appointment
To build a team with knowledge of quarrying and aggregates and the expertise required to service customers within the sector – and to accomplish it over a two-year period, all from a standing start – was a challenge that many would consider challenging.
That was the task facing Metso’s UK distributor, McHale Plant Sales, when, in April 2023, the Finnish manufacturer added to their responsibilities by appointing them Lokotrack distributors in English, Scottish, and Welsh markets.
Already Metso’s representatives in Ireland and Northern Ireland since 2015, the Tipperary-based distributor came to the UK with an in-depth knowledge of Metso and an established customer base that included some of Ireland’s and Europe’s
leading concrete, aggregates, and civil works contractors.
Attributes of which Metso would have been aware were
the company’s ‘customercentric’ style, one described as ‘a flexible, can-do, available all-hours, and keep-thecustomer-happy’ approach.
With a significant number of newcomers now added to their UK customer base, their Business Development Director, Darragh O’Driscoll, has confirmed that the company ‘is now poised to expand Metso’s presence in the UK’.
Operating from headquarters in Tamworth, backed by a fully operational parts and sales base in Edinburgh – and with their recruitment process ‘virtually complete’ with only one or two positions yet to fill – Darragh has said: “we now have a top team on board, all geographically positioned, with the know-how to move our business forward.”
Directing operations on the ground in the UK is Metso Director UK, Morgan Grant, described by Darragh as “a man highly experienced in all aspects of crushing and well-known to aggregates producers throughout the UK.”
Chris Smith.
Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin Officially Opens AECOM’s New Dublin Office
AECOM, the global infrastructure leader, saw its new office at One Burlington Plaza, Burlington Road, Dublin 4, officially opened by the Irish Taoiseach, Micheál Martin. Situated in the heart of Dublin, the new location unites AECOM’s workforce in the capital, fostering knowledge-sharing and collaboration among staff, while also reinforcing the firm’s commitment to the Irish market.
This move follows AECOM’s recently announced recruitment drive in Ireland. Currently employing more than 750 people across the island of Ireland at offices in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast, AECOM is planning to hire approximately 100 new people into its business across all career levels, from apprentices and graduates to mid and senior management. Together, these announcements underscore AECOM’s continued investment in its Irish business, with the firm benefitting from a robust and skilled Irish team while also capable of supporting project delivery in Ireland with wide-ranging global expertise from delivering infrastructure and building projects across the world. This encapsulates the firm’s ‘One AECOM’ policy, which focuses on how the combination of AECOM’s local knowledge and
global reach can complement can enhance its operations.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I am delighted to officially open this new facility for AECOM in Dublin. I am particularly heartened by AECOM’s continued focus on growth in Ireland and their creation of jobs right across the island in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Belfast. Infrastructure is critical to the functioning of our economy and our communities. This government is committed to delivering a step-change in infrastructure to match our growing economy and population. I have no doubt that
AECOM will continue to play a leading role in infrastructure projects going forward with the development of this new office.”
Richard Whitehead, Chief Executive for AECOM’s Europe & India region, said: “We are excited to announce the official opening of our new Dublin office, bringing our workforce in the capital together in one location. This carefully designed space will foster collaboration among our multi-disciplinary teams as we continue to deliver key infrastructure and building projects for our clients in Ireland. AECOM has
a long and proud history in this country, and today is the latest in a long line of notable moments for our company.”
John O’Regan, Country Leader, Ireland, at AECOM, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, to our new Dublin headquarters to mark this momentous occasion. Today’s proceedings underscore AECOM’s commitment to increasing our presence in Ireland, further supported by our ongoing recruitment drive, as we look to continue to build on the deep bench of skills and experience of our Ireland team.”
The Taoiseach with Jo Streeten, Managing Director, Buildings + Places, Europe and India, AECOM. Photo credit: AECOM
The Taoiseach speaking with Richard Whitehead, AECOM’s Chief Executive for its UK & India region, and John O’Regan, Country Leader, Ireland, at AECOM. Photo credit: AECOM
New Yanmar SV26 for Tip Top Building Contractors, from Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Develon DX10z-7 for Titan Contracts, from Ballyward Plant Services.
A fresh second hand Takeuchi TB295W delivered to Clacy Plant Hire in Kerry by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
New Case CX12D supplied by Cowan Bros to Forsythe Contracts, Cloughmills.
New Takeuchi TB260 and TB230 delivered to Greystone Hire on Co Donegal by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Waste Management - First STH742 - Sleator Plant.
New JCB 4CX Groundworker Pro for McAlorum Construction, from Dennison JCB.
New Develon DX27z-7 for Quoile Plant Hire, from Ballyward Plant Services.
New Case CX25D for Richard Sheerin, from Cowan Bros.
Ballyward Plant Services supplies Barr Contracts with Engcon EC209bs.
New Yanmar SV08 for Shields Hire, from Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Dieci Mini Agri 26.6 delivered to R Crosby in Omagh by Alan mIlne Tractors Newry.
New Yanmar VIO57 with Tecna Breaker for McIlwaine, from Crumlin Plant Sales.
Andrew Kennedy in Ardglass with a new Takeuchi TB250-0 delivered by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
New JCB 150X HD for SPR McGowan, from Dennison JCB.
New Case CX35D supplied by Cowan Bros to Philip Sleeman, Limavady.
New Yanmar C30 Dumper for Hanmar Site Investigations, from Crumlin Plant Sales.
Ballyward Plant Services delivers another Engcon EC206bs.
New Yanmar VIO57 for SB Contracts, from Crumlin Plant Sales.
New Case CX130E for Martin McGrath Contracts Ltd, from Cowan Bros.
A new Takeuchi TCR50-2 fitted with an Ascendant A18 lift collected by PLant Sales ltd in Strabane from Alan mIlne Tractors Newry.
Ballyward delivers Giant G1500XTRA to Wilson Plant Hire.
New JCB 35Z-1 Mini Digger for Paul McGrath Tractors Ltd, from Dennison JCB.
New Engcon EC226 for Moyry Ltd, from Ballyward Plant Services.
Ballyward delivers Giant G2700HD+ Tele to K Farry.
