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.
NEWS
15 ICE Expo announces partnership with Plant & Civil Engineer for 2026 show
26 Inaugural charity golf classic raises funds and community spirits
30 New horizons for Crushing & Screening Services NI
34 Pillar of Finlay, David Lyons, retires after 45 years
60 McCauley Trailers is celebrating 70 years of innovation
74 Simplicity Group is offering ‘Collision Insights’ for Irish fleet accident claims
VIEW FROM THE CAB
Golda Burrows General Sales Manager
Sarah Nelson Editor
Martin Elliman General Manager
Joel Byers Production Manager
Brenda Kerr Accounts Administration
Helen Beggs Chief Operating Officer
Plant & Civil Engineer is Published by:
4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE
CONTACT Golda: 07724 192032 or Martin: 07985 887171
One of the most exciting elements of my role is witnessing innovation in action. I am being granted opportunities to often observe firsthand the breakthroughs pushing boundaries across the plant, construction, quarrying, and recycling industries, and to find out more about the processes and people behind the progress. In doing so, I’m simultaneously seeing just how many innovations stem from individuals’ and companies’ desire to address meaningful causes and solve real-world challenges.
This is certainly the case when it comes to this edition’s cover story about how ReCon Resources’ inspiring sustainability journey has led to the creation of ReCon Concrete. Delve behind the-scenes of the production of the premium concrete using recycled aggregates, therefore reducing waste, cutting carbon, and building a greener future.
Elsewhere in this issue, we’re proud to present a special profile on Shannon Valley Group’s commitment to circular economy principles, and how this ethos has translated to its wide-scale projects’ operations. Meet, too, a number of the companies which have worked with Shannon Valley Group in the pursuit of their goals.
Make sure to also check out our important ‘Working at Height’ focus, shedding light on the top-quality equipment helping you and your clients carry out height-related tasks. Our Building Towards Net Zero section continues on; demonstrating even more eco-friendly initiatives to promote environmental responsibility, while Dan Gilkes’ Hyundai View from the Cab helps you get to grips with the top-quality HX360L.
In addition to all of this, expect the latest news, views and insights shaping the industry, as well as enlightening reads from our expert columnists.
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
McHale Metso Operations in Ireland and UK Now ‘in-Step’
With their appointment as Metso distributors in Ireland, Northern Ireland, and UK markets now fully operational – with headquarters in Tamworth and Edinburgh added to their Irish depots at Birdhill and Rathcoole – McHale Plant Sales has been expanding its footprint in all regions. In Ireland, recent high-profile placements have seen a Lokotrack LT120 model supplied to Donal McCabe of McCabe Contractors, and a LT200 supplied to Enda McCabe Mile River for operation with Roadstone in Arklow.
Other big-name sales include a unit supplied to Drennans for service with Roadstone in
Fixed units recently delivered include a static HP350e cone unit to Kilsaran,
and a Metso GP330 cone model to an aggregates producer in Churchill, Co. Donegal. In Northern Ireland a LT200 unit was supplied to first-time Metso buyer, Keenans of Derry.
Big UK sales have seen a Lokotrack LT116 supplied to Kent-based Gallagher, an LT96 jaw unit to Welsh buyer, Mason Brothers, a LT1110 impact unit to Surrey-based buyer Chambers, and LT1213s to Bristol-based Kelston Sparkes. Commenting, McHale Sales Director, Denis McGrath, said: “From a standing start in the UK little more than two years ago, we are pleased that the work we have been doing on behalf of Metso in Ireland can now be viewed in-step with that of our well-staffed and fully-functioning UK outlets.”
Hyundai Pioneers with B-X Series:
High-Voltage Electric Forklifts for Heavy-Duty and All-Weather Operations
Hyundai Material Handling has unveiled the B-X Series line of highvoltage electric forklifts. Operating at 309-348V, the 4-9 tonne range is designed to deliver heavy-duty performance comparable to diesel models, with zero emissions, both indoors and outdoors, even in cold, wet, or demanding conditions.
The initial line-up includes models from 4 – 5.5 tonnes and 6 – 9 tonnes. Heavier versions from 10 – 13 tonnes and 16 – 18 tonnes are scheduled for release in 2026.
High Voltage for High Performance
The 4-9 tonne Hyundai B-X models are equipped with a 309 – 348V high-voltage li-ion battery system, engineered to deliver power output for intensive, heavyduty applications. By operating at higher voltage and lower current, the system minimises energy loss, reduces heat generation in cables and controllers and significantly extends component life.
“A defining feature of these forklifts is the integrated battery water cooling and heating system, that ensures optimal performance, even in extreme conditions, and enables immediate full power use after charging and maintaining high output until the next recharge,” said Raymond Galavazi, Senior Product Manager at Hyundai Material Handling Europe. He continued: “The LFP battery technology supports rapid charging –up to 120 kW – allowing full recharges in approximately one hour and up to 11 hours of continuous operation.”
Built on a diesel-based chassis and with IP67/IP69-rated components, the B-X Series is designed to perform reliably in demanding, all-weather conditions.
Operator Comfort and Ergonomics
The B-X Series offers up to 14 dB lower cabin noise and reduced vibration, providing smooth and intuitive control. Features include dual brake pedals, regenerative braking and anti-roll-back on slopes. Selectable drive modes (High, Normal, Eco), a digital LCD display, and optional climate control enhance adaptability. A tighter turning radius and familiar layout ensure a smooth transition from diesel models. Optional mast damping
improves load stability, while fingertip hydraulic controls enhance operator comfort.
Safety Features
Advanced safety systems, including pedestrian detection and load sensing, provide real-time alerts to prevent collisions and overloading. Optional Blue Spot and Red Zone lighting improve visibility in busy environments. Auto hold, auto parking and seat-sensing systems help prevent unintended movement. A protective charging port cover and site-specific speed limiters add further layers of operational safety, making the B-X Series well-suited for high-traffic and industrial settings.
Duleek.
Metso Lokotrack LT1213.
Meet the Develon DX25Z-7 – a 2.5t class zero-tail-swing mini excavator built for tight spaces, with the strength and stability to match. Designed for operator comfort and control, it offers advanced safety and easy maintenance to keep your business moving. To find out more and to locate your nearest dealer: eu.develon-ce.com
SANY UK Launches its First Micro Excavator
SANY UK has introduced the SY10U, a 1-tonne class micro excavator engineered for high performance in confined and urban environments.
This latest addition extends SANY’s compact excavator portfolio, offering contractors, landscapers, and utility specialists a machine that balances compact dimensions with robust output. Built to meet the growing demand for efficient equipment in tightaccess applications, the SY10U canopy machine features:
Hydraulic system: load-sensing with precision control
Zero tail swing for safe operation against walls and in restricted spaces
Retractable undercarriage (from 745 mm to 1,100 mm) for passage through narrow entry points Durability and serviceability were key priorities in the SY10U’s design. Steel bodywork and a reinforced boom and arm ensure structural strength, while simplified groundlevel service points reduce downtime.
“The SY10U marks an exciting step for SANY UK as we expand our mini and micro excavator range,” said Leigh Harris, Business Development Director.
“Customers have been asking for a machine that combines reliability, efficiency, and compact design – and the SY10U delivers on every level.”
in build quality and lifecycle value. The SY10U is available immediately through SANY UK’s authorised dealer network across the UK and Ireland.
Euro Auctions Expand in the Republic of Ireland with Successful First Sale at New Mountrath Site
International auctioneers
Euro Auctions have marked a major milestone in their global growth with the successful completion of their first unreserved auction at the company’s new permanent sales site in Mountrath, Co. Laois, Republic of Ireland.
Held on 26th and 27th September, the two-day auction attracted nearly 2,000 registered bidders, with vendors from six countries across Europe presenting equipment to a truly international audience. The event drew a large physical crowd on-site, on the day, as well as significant online participation, creating a vibrant atmosphere and driving competitive bidding across all categories.
In total, 84 vendors participated, of which a notable 25 per cent were selling with Euro Auctions for the first time. Prices remained strong throughout, with high levels of buyer engagement. While the concept of an ‘unreserved auction’ may be relatively new to many buyers in the Republic of Ireland, the format was embraced with confidence,
Euro Auctions have reached a significant milestone.
as is standard at all Euro Auctions sites worldwide, with every lot sold without reserve, ensuring fair market value and transparency.
Cathal Doherty, Sales Manager for Euro Auctions, commented:
“This inaugural sale has truly put a stake in the ground for Euro Auctions in the Republic of Ireland. The turnout was exceptional, with strong support from the local area, as well as buyers and vendors from across Europe, North America, Asia, and North Africa. The appetite for high-quality equipment is clear, and this site in Co. Laois, with its excellent central
location and transport links, will continue to grow in importance.
“The sale was a live, two-day physical auction that attracted not only a local audience from across the island of Ireland, but also registrations to bid from 46 countries worldwide. With 65 per cent of participants being returning customers and 35 per cent of first-time registrants successfully purchasing, Euro Auctions demonstrated both the loyalty of its established client base and its strong appeal to new buyers.
“Whilst the largest proportion of buyers, 85 per cent, participated
from Europe, including the Republic of Ireland, Romania, Spain, and Poland, buyers from the UK, Canada, Bulgaria, and Tanzania also secured machinery, underlining the global reach of the Euro Auctions network.
“As one of the largest specialist construction and agricultural auction companies in the world, Euro Auctions is committed to further developing the Mountrath site. The focus for future sales will be to build on the momentum of this first event, while introducing an expanded catalogue of agricultural machinery to meet regional demand.
“On the day, our team of 20 experienced auction professionals, supported by seasoned auctioneers from our global sites, ensured this event delivered results for both buyers and sellers. We will now build on this success, expanding the agricultural machinery offering to reflect the needs of the Irish market and attracting even greater participation from both vendors and buyers.”
The next Euro Auctions sale in Mountrath will take place on 14th – 15th November 2025.
Compact from 14 to 36 tonnes
The range of Liebherr compact crawler excavators offers a machine for every application. The R 914, R 920, R 926 and R 936 Compact range features a minimal turning radius, especially suitable for applications in restricted environments, without compromising on operator comfort. www.liebherr.com
Crawler excavators
FIVE WAYS ROKBAK HAULERS DELIVER STRONG RETURN ON INVESTMENT
Rokbak haulers are known and loved for their low total cost of ownership.
Here, the company’s Senior Product Manager, Scott Pollock, shares his unique insights into how to save money when choosing equipment and achieve a good return on investment.
WORK OUT HOW MUCH IT COSTS TO OPERATE YOUR EQUIPMENT PER HOUR
When looking at return on investment (ROI), the key metric to focus on is how much does the product cost to operate per hour. The operational cost per hour takes into consideration the purchase cost and the depreciation value, as well as the repair and maintenance costs over a given period. From this, you can measure the physical availability of the machine and together with looking at the productivity you can analyse how much it costs to move each tonne of material. Combining all of this will give you an indication of ROI and how much money you can make.
LOW FUEL CONSUMPTION IS ESSENTIAL FOR PROFITABILITY
Fuel consumption can add a lot to your day-to-day running costs, so it’s important to choose equipment that delivers low fuel consumption. At Rokbak our fuel consumption is one of the lowest in the market, so the operational cost of running Rokbak trucks is low – which is a huge benefit for our customers. You can see this for yourself with a product demonstration and get benchmarking data which shows evidence
of the productivity and fuel consumption comparisons for your application and job site.
RELIABILITY AND DURABILITY ARE CRITICAL
If your equipment has low availability, you won’t be able to achieve a good return on investment. At Rokbak, reliability is at the centre of everything we do and as such our trucks have high physical availability. Our current RA30 and RA40 articulated haulers are consistently returning very low levels of warranty claims, which tells us that the products are robust and reliable, working with minimal faults.
MAINTENANCE IS ESSENTIAL
It’s essential to properly maintain equipment to get the best productivity and results. Not only does correct maintenance ensure productive operation, it also maintains safe operation and minimises any unscheduled downtime. By keeping fluids replenished, ensuring components are properly greased and making sure filters are clean, you will
prolong component life. If equipment isn’t maintained, it could lead to a catastrophic failure and significant downtime.
At Rokbak, we’ve utilised more modern fluids and filtration systems to extend the time between essential maintenance periods and increase truck uptime. For example, the RA30 and RA40 both adopt modern hydraulic fluids that maximise time between maintenance periods to 4,000 hours. The RA40’s transmission has highperformance fluid and up to 6,000 hours between service intervals, while the RA30’s long-life transmission fluid supports 4,000 hours between oil maintenance intervals.
IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE METAL WORK
Aftersales support is vital. From dealer support to product trainings and a reliable genuine spare parts infrastructure, good quality OEM support mechanisms need to be in place to maximise machine uptime. The product needs to perform but when it comes to things like servicing and maintenance, it’s about acting fast and responsibly to address any customer requirements and maximise uptime.
At Rokbak we have a strong, global aftermarket network, we support our dealer partners so they can support customers in the best way. We’re a close group and as we only manufacture haulers, we are extremely focused on being the experts in our field. We stay down-to-earth and form close bonds with customers and dealers – it’s a partnership – and this approach is appreciated by everyone we work with.
Scott Pollock.
Rokbak haulers are recognised for their low total cost of ownership.
Green-Tec to Showcase MT2 Mulcher and Launch
New CT5 Chipper at AGRITECHNICA
Green-Tec™, a Terex brand specialising in tree care and vegetation management solutions, has confirmed its attendance at AGRITECHNICA 2025, taking place from 9th – 15th November in Hanover, Germany.
In a major highlight for visitors, Green-Tec will present an exclusive preview of the CT5 chipper, which can accept a log
2025
with a max diameter of 330mm (13’). While details of this new model remain under wraps, AGRITECHNICA will provide the very first opportunity to see the machine in person.
Alongside this preview, GreenTec will display the MT2 Tracked Mulcher, designed for smallmedium-sized land clearance and vegetation management. The MT2 combines operator comfort
with exceptional hydraulic performance to optimally power a 2m wide mulching head. With advanced cooling capacity, electronic monitoring and a torflex-style suspension undercarriage, it is well-suited for maintaining productivity and manoeuvrability in challenging conditions.
“AGRITECHNICA is a landmark event for agricultural machinery, with a focus also on land
management, therefore it is an ideal show to highlight the synergies with our equipment and how it supports effective vegetation management,” said Jamie Mairs, Business Line Director for Green-Tec.
“We are especially pleased to offer an exclusive first look at the CT5, which represents the next step in our product development.”
Mark Ormond Steps Down from CEA Board Following New Role
The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has announced that Mark Ormond has stepped down from his position on the CEA Board following his departure from Manitou and his recent move to Avtron Power Solutions.
Mark joined the CEA board in 2019 while serving as Managing Director of Manitou UK. Over the past five years, he has played an active role in shaping the association’s work, championing member benefits and ensuring that members’ voices were represented at the highest level. His contributions have been felt across strategy, finance, and the CEA’s manifesto, where his insight and support have helped guide the association through a period of change and renewed focus.
During his time with the CEA, Mark has been closely involved in member forums and discussions with government and regulators around skills, sustainability, and productivity. His ability to bring experience from both the agricultural and construction machinery sectors has
helped broaden the CEA’s thinking and ensured that the association’s work reflects the diverse needs of its members.
Reflecting on Mark’s departure, CEA Chief Executive, Viki Bell, said: “Mark has been a highly valued member of the CEA Board, and we are grateful for the energy and commitment he has given to the Association over the past five years. He has brought a wealth of knowledge to our
manifesto development, financial planning, and member forums, where his ability to draw on both agricultural and construction perspectives has been especially valuable. On behalf of the CEA, I would like to thank Mark for his contribution to the association and to our members. We wish him every success in his new role at Avtron Power Solutions and look forward to staying connected as he continues his career.”
Mark Ormond, Vice President for the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions at Avtron Power Solutions, commented: “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the CEA board, team, and members since joining member company Manitou UK in 2018. The CEA is a key provider of information, lobbying and advice to its members, and continues to adapt to reflect their changing needs. I congratulate the board, CEO, and entire CEA team on the achievements made in recent years. For me, having moved to a new role outside of the construction sector, I need to focus 100 per cent of my time with my new employer. I wish the CEA continued success in the future.”
Mark Ormond.
The MT2 Mulcher.
Hyundai’s Next Generation HX360L and HX400L excavators are designed to deliver next-level efficiency, comfort, safety and serviceability. Driven by the award-winning DX08 diesel engine, they power up productivity and cut costs with up to 10% improved fuel efficiency and longer service intervals. 1,000-hour oil changes and an intelligent electro-hydraulic system for precision control provide 25% improved productivity, while the SAVM 360° camera system and E-Stop emergency braking help keep you safe.
Go to the Next Level. Contact your Hyundai dealer. www.hyundai-ce.eu
HYUNDAI’S HX360L IS UPGRADING THE JOBSITE GAME
BY DAN GILKES
view from the cab
Crawler excavators are the backbone of the construction industry. The market is one of the most hotly-contested sectors in the business, with manufacturers working to produce the most economical, powerful and productive machines. The latest additions to this sector are the Next Generation models from Hyundai Construction Equipment.
The company launched the first two of these new tracked machines, the HX360L and the HX400L, at the Bauma exhibition earlier this year in Munich. As the numbers suggest, these mid-weights tip the scales at 36 and 40 tonnes respectively, and they share much of their componentry.
The Korean manufacturer has started a complete range
overhaul with these models as they are a popular size, but not a dominant sector of the market. Other weights will follow, as the entire range is gradually replaced over the coming months.
POWER AND PERFORMANCE
The machines are the first to be powered by HD Hyundai’s own diesel engine, the DX08, and Hyundai power will feature across the line-up, replacing the previous engines. The awardwinning DX08, which was
crowned the Diesel of the Year 2025, develops 304hp (227kW) in the 36-tonne HX360L, which is 23 per cent more than the older model. This is backed by 1,230Nm of torque.
The engine uses a two-stage turbocharger to create the higher power and torque, while Hyundai claims up to a 10 per cent fuel efficiency gain over the previous motor. Customers should also see savings in whole-life costs, as oil filter and engine oil service intervals have been doubled to 1,000 hours, coolant changes are 6,000 hours and Diesel Particulate Filer cleaning intervals are stretched to as much as 8,000 hours of operation.
The engine drives through new Rexroth hydraulic pumps and the machines come with Hyundai’s in-house swing and travel motors.
view from the cab
The machines are Hyundai’s first to feature full electrohydraulic (FEH) controls for the main pump and control valves. This system allows the operator to fine-tune every hydraulic function to suit their individual preferences, making the excavators more responsive and increasing productivity. The difference is immediately noticeable in the operator’s seat, with smooth, yet rapid response to lever inputs, permitting multifunction operation that would not seem out of place in a much smaller model. Operators can also pre-set pressures and flows for multiple attachments, making it easier to switch between applications on the site.
As FEH controls send an electrical signal to the main valve block, rather than a hydraulic pilot service having to pump oil to the valves, response can be faster and more accurate, with less energy required. There is no requirement for back pressure in the control system and no energy loss, contributing to those claimed fuel efficiency savings of up to 10 per cent.
The HX360L is equipped with a 6.5m main boom and a choice of 2.6m, 3.2m and 3.95m dipper arms. Sitting on 600-900 wide track shoes, the machine weighs in at 36,390-37,510kg, depending on specification. A two-piece boom is offered as an option. Maximum digging depth is 8,110mm, with a forward reach of up to 12,095mm and the HX360L has a counterweight that is almost 1-tonne heavier than before, at 7.4-tonnes, to offset the increased digging and lifting capability on offer.
OPERATOR CAB
The HX360L cab delivers a very comfortable working environment, with premium leather-clad seating, that can be both heated and cooled. There is a 12.8” high-definition
monitor against the right-hand A-pillar and a second similarlysized screen, sitting below, is offered as an option. Through this touchscreen monitor the operator can set each hydraulic function for speed and sensitivity, tailoring the machine’s responses to the jobsite’s demands.
A digital key is an option, providing keyless entry from a smartphone and the ability to start the excavator without inserting the key. The operator can also set the hydraulic system to permit single foot travel, with steering through the left or right servo lever. The machines have a built-in load weighing function, to prevent truck over-loading and are compatible with 2D machine guidance and control systems. They also come with a Virtual Wall, or e-boundary setting, restricting movement into pre-marked working areas for additional safety on-site. Hyundai’s Advanced Around View Monitoring, which used four
SERVICE ACCESS
Along with extended service intervals, the HX360L has a reversible cooling fan that can be used to blow dust and debris from the cooling pack. There are full height service access doors to either side and the engine can be reached from above. Prognostics and Health Management technology is used to monitor the machine’s main functions to proactively warn of any concerns. The excavator comes with Hyundai’s Hi-MATE telematic system as standard, providing customers with real-time access to machine data, a range of operating reports and location and theft prevention information.
EXCAVATOR DEVELOPMENT
cameras around the machine to provide a 360° view, has been updated to Smart Around View Monitoring (SAVM). The system now incorporates the feed from six AI-assisted cameras and three wide-angle radars, to detect and warn the operator of obstacles and people that might be within the working area. The system provides audible and visual warnings to the operator and can be paired with an Advanced Detection System with emergency stop (E-Stop) function, that will automatically slow and eventually halt the machine if the operator doesn’t respond to the SAVM warnings. The HX360L also has six LED working lights, with a welcome light function, an external microphone for communication with other workers on-site, a white noise alarm and four roof-mounted flashing beacons, to be sure that the machine is noticed from any direction.
With both Hyundai Construction Equipment and Develon now under the overall HD Hyundai business, the crawler excavators are the first products that show greater commonality of components between the two companies. This reduces cost, allowing increased investment in research and development and providing customers with a choice of new models. However, while the two companies will increasingly share component supply and development, the machinery remains exclusive to each manufacturer. External design cues point to each company’s own brand, while cab interiors and user interfaces are completely separate, to maintain the manufacturer’s identity in the market.
The HX360L and the closelyrelated HX400L mark a big step forward for Hyundai. These Next Generation models, with frugal Hyundai engines, FEH controls, improved safety systems and lower operating costs, will no doubt be as wellreceived on-site as they are in the finance director’s office.
ICE EXPO ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH PLANT & CIVIL ENGINEER FOR 2026 SHOW
The ICE Expo team has announced a new partnership with Plant & Civil Engineer magazine, who will work closely with ICE to promote what promises to be the must-attend event for the construction and plant industries in 2026.
As part of this collaboration, Plant & Civil Engineer will publish the Official ICE Expo Directory in May next year, leveraging its decades of expertise and trusted industry reach to connect exhibitors with attendees. This partnership ensures maximum exposure for exhibitors while providing visitors with a comprehensive guide to navigating the show.
The 2026 ICE Expo is already shaping up to be a sell-out event, with more exhibitors and bigger plans than ever before. Key highlights include:
• Additional exhibitor stands to accommodate growing demand
• Expanded demo areas showcasing the latest machinery and technology
• A brand-new exhibitor app portal, featuring a CRM tool for lead generation and tracking
• Brand ambassadors, Sammy Heaney and Pete the Builder And this is just the beginning – further announcements are set to blow attendees and exhibitors away.
Working closely with the ICE team, Plant & Civil Engineer will also support exhibitors in
their preparations, ensuring a truly show-stopping experience for everyone.
Speaking about the partnership, Danielle McSorley, Event Director, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Plant & Civil Engineer. Their reputation, industry knowledge, and long-standing commitment to the construction and plant sectors make them the perfect media partner for ICE Expo. Together, we’re raising the bar for exhibitors and visitors alike.” With demand already at record levels, ICE Expo 2026 promises to be the biggest, most impactful event yet – bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers for an unmissable showcase.
For more information, visit www.iceexpo.ie
CITB Launches Free Inclusive Recruitment Training for SMEs
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has launched new, free digital training modules that are designed to make recruitment more inclusive, accessible, and effective.
CITB established the Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) Commission to help drive lasting change across the construction industry by improving fairness and ensuring people from all backgrounds can thrive. Running until March 2026, the Commission brings together industry leaders and partners to embed inclusive practices that help construction attract new talent and retain skilled workers.
The training is hosted on the SME Community Hub, an online platform from the Supply Chain Sustainability School. The hub hosts tailored, easy to navigate resources for SME employers that help to make training accessible for businesses that may not have a dedicated in-house role for this area. The hub also offers advice, guidance and training materials across a variety of topics such as sustainability, procurement and Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR). In total, it has over 5,000 resources and 550 specifically for FIR.
The launch of the new training modules will help people already in the industry, but CITB wants to ensure that the wider construction workforce is more diverse also. With
months still to go on the EDI Commission, the number of unique companies trained on EDI materials has already surpassed the project end target by over 36 per cent. The number of those employers who are SMEs / micro has also surpassed the end target by 42 per cent, with 1,985 unique SME / micro employers trained
on the materials. So far 22,459 unique individuals have been trained, surpassing the target of 14,800 by 52 per cent.
Nadine Pemberton Jn Baptiste, Legal, Governance and Compliance Executive Director at CITB, said: “Across the industry, we need to establish a culture that ensures it seeks to understand and meet the needs of people of all backgrounds. We must also establish a new norm by demonstrating that we can retain people from different backgrounds by offering flexible workplaces and inclusive working conditions.
“The launch of these new, free digital training modules will help the industry achieve this. We need over 47,000 new workers every year to meet forecasted demand. The only way we can truly address the workforce gap is by attracting more people from more diverse backgrounds to careers in construction.”
Christina Scant, Group Head of Human Resources, Core Highways said: “As a smaller business, we often don’t have access to large HR teams or EDI specialists, so this training gives smaller businesses like us access to expert advice, guidance, training materials, templates and a point of contact for all things fairness, inclusion and respect.
“My team love the FIR resources to help support, guide and upskill.”
Operators Hail JCB 145XR Cab as a ‘Lovely Place to be’
A leading plant hirer has invested in two of the first new JCB 145XR reduced tailswing excavators to roll off the JCB production line – praising the comfort of the cab.
Purchased by Norfolk-based Matthew Williams Digger Hire, the two new 145XR models are working on specialised highways work in Norfolk. Supplied by Watling JCB, the 145XR is the latest addition to the JCB X Series range and is designed to deliver the same performance as the conventional 140X, in a compact design with a 27 per cent shorter tailswing.
Matthew Williams Digger Hire Managing Director, Matthew Williams, said: “We buy JCB
machines because they’re British. If JCB make it, we don’t go anywhere else. We are 100% loyal to JCB over the past 26 years we’ve been in business.
We’ve been so well looked after by JCB and Watling JCB that we have no reason to go elsewhere.
“As soon as the JCB 145XR was launched I put my name down
for one and it is a really good machine. Everybody likes them, they’re very good. The operators say the cab is a lovely place to be when working a shift.”
The JCB 145XR reduced tailswing model builds on the success of JCB’s larger 245XR, delivering impressive performance in a compact design with a minimal counterweight swing. The 145XR’s ultra-tight slew radius makes it an ideal machine for working within a highway carriageway, or on confined urban job sites.
Established in 1999, Matthew Williams Digger Hire offers operated and self-drive plant hire and some small groundworks from its Norfolk base. The company boasts an impressive 220 strong fleet – the vast majority of which is JCB – ranging from micro excavators to X Series tracked excavators, cabbed dumpers, compaction rollers and 4m-14m Loadall telescopic handlers.
JCB 145XR.
RECON CONCRETE IS BREAKING BARRIERS AND BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Back in 2010, Daniel Connolly saw something others overlooked. While most councils and waste management companies wrote off street sweepings and gully waste as a dead-end material destined only for landfill, Daniel recognised a gap in the market – and an opportunity to do things differently.
Street sweepings, a forgotten waste stream, were viewed as impossible to recycle, messy mixtures of grit, leaves, and litter with no practical use.
Rather than accept the status quo, Daniel set about designing a bespoke plant that could wash and segregate the material.
The results were ground-breaking: for the first time in Northern Ireland, up to 97 per cent of this waste could be diverted from landfill and transformed into clean, useful aggregates. These recycled materials quickly found a market in the construction industry, proving their worth in everything from general building projects to the production of concrete gully pots. It was a genuine example of the circular economy at work –waste being given a second life, feeding back into the very infrastructure it came from.
UNLOCKING UNCAPTURED VALUE
From those humble beginnings, ReCon Waste Management quickly gained traction, building a reputation for innovation, sustainability, and challenging long-held assumptions about what could and couldn’t be recycled. What started with a bold idea and a custom-built plant soon grew into a thriving business, reshaping how an entire sector thought about one of its most stubborn waste streams.
To date, ReCon’s efforts have centred on maximising re-use and recycling through advanced separation and washing processes. This approach has already diverted thousands of tonnes of material from landfill, proving the value of challenging convention and investing in innovation. But for the business, this is only the beginning. Looking ahead, the goal is ambitious yet clear: to achieve a 100 per cent recycling rate with complete diversion
from landfill. At the heart of this mission is the drive to unlock the “uncaptured value” hidden within waste streams –transforming what was once discarded into low-carbon, sustainable products that serve a growing market demand. ReCon is committed not only to reducing the environmental impact of its operations, but also to helping its customers lower their own footprints. By embedding circular economy principles into every stage of the process, the company is creating solutions that go beyond waste management, offering real contributions to sustainability and climate goals. This strategic shift has sparked a natural evolution of the business. ReCon Waste Management has now become ReCon Resources Ltd, reflecting its expanded
vision: no longer simply managing waste, but actively turning incoming materials into valuable resources. With this new identity, the company is positioned to fully realise the potential of its products, strengthen its role in the circular economy, and continue setting the pace for innovation in the sector.
A NEW STANDARD IN GREEN CONSTRUCTION
With more than a decade of expertise in waste management and material recycling, the company’s move into sustainable concrete production was a natural next step. Seeing the untapped potential to repurpose recycled materials into high-quality construction products, ReCon Concrete was established to provide an environmentallyfriendly alternative to traditional concrete.
Daniel Connolly (Managing Director), Anne Coyle (Accounts Manager) and Darragh McConville (Business Development Manager).
This new venture sets itself apart in the market by significantly lowering environmental impact. By incorporating recycled aggregates from a range of waste sources – including construction and demolition waste – ReCon Concrete reduces both the volume of material sent to landfill and the demand for virgin aggregates. The result is a product that not only performs to industry standards, but also supports a more sustainable, resource-efficient construction sector.
The innovative nature of this approach has already been recognised with esteemed accreditation, marking an important milestone in ReCon’s journey. What began with a single bespoke plant to recycle street sweepings has now evolved into a multifaceted enterprise, closing loops across waste streams and proving the value of circular economy principles in practice.
In early 2025, ReCon reached another major breakthrough. The company was awarded End of Waste status by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, an accreditation that officially recognises its recycled materials as a high-quality alternative to traditional concrete inputs. This approval not only ensures compliance with strict environmental regulations, but also underscores ReCon’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. By integrating recycled aggregates into its concrete products, ReCon is able to significantly reduce the carbon footprint
of production while supporting a truly circular economy. It marks a decisive shift away from linear “take, make, dispose” models and towards a future where resources are continually repurposed and reused. With demand for sustainable building materials continuing to rise, ReCon Concrete stands out as a competitive, eco-friendly alternative that allows developers and contractors to meet their sustainability targets without compromising on performance or quality.
‘ReCon Concrete: An Innovative Step Towards a Greener Future’ is more than a tagline – it reflects the company’s vision of reshaping the construction industry, one recycled product at a time.
ReCon Concrete’s commitment to quality is evident in every batch produced. The company’s robust quality control system ensures that the concrete is not only durable and workable but also versatile enough to be used in all the same applications as traditional concrete. Beyond standard products, ReCon has developed a range of innovative solutions, including modular ‘Lego’ blocks for construction and decorative pillars for landscaping and architectural projects.
FOR A SOLID, SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
To mark this significant chapter, the company is rolling out its new brand identity, symbolising its ongoing growth and commitment to innovation. This rebranding represents a strategic move to better
align with its evolving mission and vision, while still maintaining the core values that have defined the team’s success.
PARTNERSHIPS WITH AN IMPACT
Collaboration with customers has been a cornerstone of the company’s approach. By working closely with contractors and developers, ReCon provides tailored solutions that meet both structural and aesthetic requirements while advancing sustainability goals.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Clients report appreciating not just the environmental benefits, but also the performance and reliability of the concrete. Cost-effectiveness is another strong advantage. Customers benefit from products that reduce project carbon footprints without increasing expenses, making ReCon Concrete a trusted partner in eco-friendly construction. As demand for sustainable building materials grows,
ReCon’s solutions are helping the industry meet environmental targets without compromising on quality or performance.
The impact of ReCon’s work extends far beyond individual projects. By transforming waste into valuable resources, the company actively supports the circular economy.
Each product represents a step towards a more sustainable construction sector, proving that environmentally-responsible solutions can also deliver real-world performance and economic benefits.
ReCon Resources works closely with customers to develop tailored waste solutions and sustainable materials that align with their operational and environmental goals. By understanding their specific needs, ReCon provides innovative recycling and recovery strategies that enhance efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Collaboration also extends beyond clients. The team actively engages with third parties and industry bodies to cultivate a shared vision for sustainability. They also work with organisations, such as Recycle NI, to promote best practices in waste management and drive positive change across the sector. Through these
partnerships, the company contributes to the development of policies and initiatives that support a shared sustainable vision, ensuring that businesses across Northern Ireland can adopt practical, effective, and environmentally responsible waste solutions. This collaborative approach reinforces ReCon’s philosophy that sustainability is not just about individual initiatives – it’s about building networks, sharing knowledge, and creating long-term impact that benefits both industry and the environment.
CHARTING NEW HORIZONS
Building on the success of sustainable concrete, the landscape of ReCon Waste Management’s endeavours continues to expand and diversify – always in line with the company’s commitment to a sustainable future. ReCon is continuously developing innovative waste recycling solutions, with many more advancements on the horizon. The company aims to broaden its range of eco-friendly construction products, further strengthening its dedication to sustainable resource management and environmentallyresponsible building materials. By exploring new ways to repurpose waste streams and
Concrete ‘lego’ blocks.
develop low-carbon alternatives, ReCon is positioning itself at the forefront of circular economy innovation, demonstrating that economic growth and environmental stewardship can go hand-in-hand.
Over the next decade, ReCon Waste Management, along with its business arms ReCon Resources and ReCon Concrete, is well-positioned to make a substantial contribution to Ireland’s broader environmental and sustainability goals.
By continuing to develop advanced separation, washing, and processing techniques, ReCon can further increase recycling rates and work toward its goal of 100 per cent diversion from landfill. This directly supports Ireland’s national waste reduction targets and aligns with the EU Circular Economy Action Plan, demonstrating that previously “unrecyclable” waste streams can become valuable resources.
Through ReCon Concrete, the company is providing low-carbon, sustainable building materials that reduce the industry’s reliance on virgin aggregates and limit greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional concrete production. Expanding these product lines will allow the construction sector to
meet both national and international carbon reduction commitments more effectively.
ReCon’s collaborative approach – with customers, contractors, and industry bodies like Recycle NI – helps to embed sustainability best practices throughout Northern Ireland’s waste management and construction sectors. By sharing knowledge, influencing policy, and driving adoption of innovative waste solutions, the company amplifies its environmental impact beyond its own operations.
Continued investment in R&D will allow ReCon to unlock the “uncaptured value” in waste streams, creating new sustainable products while further reducing environmental
impacts. This could include advanced aggregates, modular construction solutions, or other low-carbon building materials that support Ireland’s sustainability objectives.
In the shorter-term – but with a farreaching impact and aligning with the company’s continued expansion – the planned start of ReCon’s new 12,000sq ft offices is this autumn.
Ultimately, ReCon is helping to transform how resources are managed across the country. By turning waste into valuable products, the company strengthens Ireland’s circular economy, reduces landfill dependency, and demonstrates scalable, practical solutions that other businesses can replicate.
From its humble beginnings in 2010 to the pioneering innovations of today, ReCon has demonstrated that vision, persistence, and a commitment to the circular economy can transform an industry. By turning waste into valuable resources, delivering highquality sustainable products, and fostering collaboration across sectors, ReCon is not just managing waste – it is shaping a greener, more sustainable future for the construction sector and for Northern Ireland as a whole.
BOBCAT’S MACHINE IQ TELEMATICS EXCEEDS 30,000 UNITS SOLD IN EUROPE, REVOLUTIONISING WORKSITE EFFICIENCY
Bobcat, a global equipment, innovation and worksite solutions brand, has sold more than 30,000 Machine IQ-connected units in Europe, delivering performance, productivity and peace of mind to customers across the region. Launched in 2019, the manufacturer’s proprietary telematics platform empowers customers and dealers with near real-time access to critical machine data, helping improve efficiency, enhance security and maximise uptime.
Installed at the factory or by dealers as aftermarket kit, Machine IQ connects supported Bobcat models to the cloud, enabling customers to act sooner, reduce risk and keep their equipment running at its best. Features such as maintenance progress tracking and machine grouping are included in the Standard Package, which is free for the first two years.
Geofencing, advanced utilisation reporting, fault code histories and configurable notifications are available as part of the Premium Package, which also includes remote engine disable / enable functionality for connected skidsteer and compact track loaders, mini-excavators, compact wheel loaders and now also telescopic loaders and handlers. From locating and recovering equipment to setting geofences and curfew alerts that flag unexpected movement, operators and fleet managers are using Machine IQ to tighten security and keep projects on track. By monitoring fuel consumption and usage, customers can make faster, more informed decisions that help maximise productivity and minimise downtime. Near real-time fault
codes, meanwhile, enable dealers to prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs, helping to optimise maintenance in demanding environments.
Tomas Plechaty, Senior Digital Programme Manager, Doosan Bobcat EMEA, said: “Passing the 30,000 mark for Machine IQ not only underscores our team’s commitment to innovative, efficiency-centric solutions, but also reflects the genuine value that our connected machines deliver on the ground. With real-time data at their fingertips, Bobcat customers across Europe are using this technology to bolster security, drive productivity and improve decision-making.”
NEW REMOTE ENGINE DISABLE / ENABLE AVAILABLE FOR TELEHANDLERS
Bobcat has added a new Remote Engine Disable / Enable feature on the company’s Machine IQ telematics platform also for telehandlers. The new feature allows customers in Europe to remotely enable or disable their machine’s engine through the
Owner Portal or Machine IQ mobile app. With Remote Engine Disable / Enable, operators and owners can shut down their machine with a few clicks, deterring theft and aiding in quick machine recovery.
CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INNOVATION
There are numerous examples of how Machine IQ is facilitating efficiency, security and uptime. For instance, when HA Terrassement’s E27z was taken from the company’s driveway (trailer and all), Bobcat’s Belgian dealer used the platform to obtain its most recent GPS location before sharing exact coordinates with the customer.
As Hans Vervloet, Aftermarket Manager at Vangaever NV, explains, the missing asset –worth tens of thousands of euros – was recovered quickly and safely as a result.
Meanwhile, Sandy Gray, Director of Grays Machinery Ltd in the UK, says that one customer is leveraging Machine IQ to safeguard a Bobcat S450 that is frequently left away from
the main yard. The firm uses geofencing functionality and live error codes to ensure security and guide proactive servicing for the machine, which operates in remote, rugged locations. In addition to reducing unplanned downtime, the technology is helping to prolong the machine’s lifespan. The visibility and proactive support provided by Machine IQ have also benefited Rashev & Co in Bulgaria, according to Kristina Bozhilova, Sales and Service Administration at Megatron EAD. The ability to monitor fault codes, service schedules and fuel consumption in near real time – identifying issues and arranging services proactively – is supporting faster, data-led decisions while ensuring the fleet remains operational.
STRATEGY LED BY INNOVATION
Bobcat will continue to invest in Machine IQ and its wider digital portfolio to drive enhanced data insights, diagnostics and integrations for end users and fleet managers alike. This sustained commitment to innovation and connected solutions will provide Bobcat’s European dealer network with more ways to safeguard assets, plan maintenance, and keep customers’ machines working and earning.
“While my colleagues and I are delighted to have achieved this exciting milestone, we’re only just getting started,” Plechaty commented. “Machine IQ is a cornerstone of Bobcat’s innovation-first approach, and we will continue to invest heavily in connected capabilities, integrations and dealer support that empower our customers to accomplish more.”
Bobcat’s Machine IQ has passed an important milestone.
POWERING CONSTRUCTION FORWARD: W.R. KENNEDY & CO IS SUPPLYING TEXACO DIESEL FUEL ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND WITH FAST, RELIABLE DELIVERY
In construction, time is money – and reliability is everything. From earlymorning start-ups to long shifts powering heavy machinery, your equipment needs dependable fuel that works as hard as you do. That’s why more construction professionals across Northern Ireland trust W.R. Kennedy & Co, your Authorised Texaco Fuel Distributor, to keep their sites running smoothly with high-quality Texaco Diesel Fuel and fast, responsive delivery.
PERFORMANCE YOU CAN BUILD ON
Every litre of Texaco Diesel supplied by W.R. Kennedy & Co is engineered for reliability and consistency. Construction machinery operates under demanding conditions – from excavators and dump trucks to cranes and generators –and fuel quality can make the difference between steady progress and costly downtime. Texaco Diesel meets the latest EN 590 standards, delivering clean combustion, dependable power output, and reduced
emissions. It’s designed to keep your fleet operating efficiently in all weather and site conditions. The result? Consistent performance, improved fuel economy, and lower maintenance costs – keeping your projects on time and on budget.
FAST, RELIABLE DELIVERY ACROSS NORTHERN IRELAND
At W.R. Kennedy & Co, the team knows that when your plant stops, your project stops. That’s why the company supplies Texaco Diesel Fuel right across
Northern Ireland, backed by a modern delivery fleet and a dedicated logistics team. Whether you’re managing a city-centre build, a major road project, or multiple remote sites, its quick and dependable delivery service ensures your
machinery stays fuelled and your site keeps moving.
W.R. Kennedy & Co’s customers value its responsiveness –because the team understand that in construction, schedules are tight, margins are narrow, and reliability is everything.
With W.R. Kennedy & Co, you’ll get quality fuel, delivered when and where you need it.
PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT
Every machine on-site represents a major investment and protecting that investment starts with what goes into the tank. Poor-quality fuel can cause clogged or gummed-up
filters, leading to restricted fuel flow, power loss and unnecessary downtime.
Texaco Diesel helps prevent these issues by maintaining fuel cleanliness and stability, ensuring consistent engine performance and smooth operation in even the harshest site conditions. Its refined formulation also guards against corrosion and wear, extending component life and supporting long-term reliability. With excellent storage stability, Texaco Diesel is ideal for on-site tanks, standby generators, and bulk supply.
From daily operations to emergency standby, you can
depend on consistent quality and performance – from the first litre to the last.
TRUSTED EXPERIENCE. LOCAL SERVICE
For decades, W.R. Kennedy & Co has been a trusted name in fuel distribution across Northern Ireland. The company’s commitment to customer service, reliability, and competitive pricing has made it a preferred supplier to construction, agricultural, and transport businesses alike. Whether you need regular scheduled deliveries or urgent same-day refuelling, W.R. Kennedy & Co’s experienced
fuel distributor
team is ready to help keep your business moving.
CONTACT W.R. KENNEDY & CO – YOUR TRUSTED SUPPLIER OF FUELS AND LUBRICANTS
Supplying quality fuels and lubricants across Northern Ireland with fast delivery to keep your plant moving and your projects on schedule.
INAUGURAL CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC RAISES FUNDS AND COMMUNITY SPIRITS
Northern Ireland business made its presence felt at the Inaugural Charity Golf Classic – organised by Bann Hire & Sales, SBM Contracts and JH Turkington & Sons, and held at Portadown Golf Club on Friday 29th August.
The owners of these three prominent Portadown businesses, Shane McCrory (Bann Hire & Sales Limited), Stuart Jameson (SBM Contracts) and Gary Turkington (JH Turkington & Sons) felt that the local area needed a stand-out, golfing event. The beneficiary of this year’s event is MacMillan Cancer Support.
The event was well-supported from the get-go.
“We could have sold places to four-ball teams twice over, such was the demand,” said Shane McCrory, Managing Director, Bann Hire & Sales.
“And next year we plan to do exactly that – with two shotgun starts,” he added.
The overall winners of this year’s event were from RODEng Consulting LLP, with Jordan Rochford taking part – showing everyone that it was not just the 2.0 Litre Hot Rod he has mastery off. The RODEng Consulting LLP boys beat the Lyness brothers, John McAlinden and Nick Thorpe into close second place, with the team from
Ballylisk Car Sales making up top three once handicaps were taken into account.
“We wanted to really get people talking about the event and that’s one of the reasons that we brought Ballylisk on-board for the Hole in One competition,” said Stuart Jameson, Managing Director, SBM Contracts.
“Unfortunately none of the golfers on the day were successful with the Hole in One Challenge, so the brand new Haval goes back to Ballylisk Car Sales – for this year at least,” added Stuart.
Nearest the Pin (on 4th and 6th holes) was Peter McComisky and Chris Quinn and the Longest Drive (on the 16th hole) was won by Kerry McCloskey. But the event was more than prize winners and prizes. The overall event raised over £10,000 with donations still coming in.
“We just wanted to thank everyone who made the day happen,” said Gary Turkington, from JH Turkington & Sons.
“From the golfers’ packed lunch, courtesy of Tesco and The Chalet, to the drinks trolley, courtesy of Andy Robinson, to the on course graphics, courtesy of AP Signs, to our sponsors on each hole and to my fellow business owners – Shane and Stuart, I just want to say ‘thanks.’”
The event will be back in 2026 and promises to be bigger and better.
“We want this to become a new feature on the landscape of Northern Ireland, not just Portadown. Next year’s planning starts next week,” added Shane.
Gary Turkington, JH Turkington & Sons.
Stuart Jameson, SBM Contracts.
Shane McCrory, Bann Hire & Sales.
First place: the RODEng Consulting LLP team.
Second place: Pat and Joey Lyness, John McAlinden and Nick Thorpe.
Third place: the Ballylisk Car Sales team.
Dromad Hire Hosts Dundalk Chamber Members for Business Tour
As part of the Dundalk Chamber’s Business Tour initiative, members had the opportunity to tour Dromad Hire’s premises and gain an insight into the company operations and business growth.
The event gave Chamber members the opportunity to see first-hand the scale of Dromad Hire’s operations, including
this give us a chance to connect exchange ideas, and highlight the positive developments happening
Cumiskey, Hire Controller & Business Development at Dromad Hire.
FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI
HARNESSING THE WINDS: THE COMPLEX STATE OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S ECONOMY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
THE ORDER OF BUSINESS
With the summer now a distant memory, the headwinds of budget concerns, national and global political uncertainty are blowing strongly.
The latest Ulster Bank Regional Growth Tracker stated:
• A solid reduction in business activity in Northern Ireland’s private sector during August, with the pace of decline quickening from July
• New orders were also down, but companies continued to take on extra staff
• Inflationary pressures eased but remained elevated
• The headline Business Activity Index – a seasonally-adjusted index that measures the month-on-month change in the combined output of the region’s private sector – dropped to a four-month low of 47.3 in August, from 49.7 in July
• Northern Ireland’s private sector struggled to gain momentum in August, as customer caution led to reductions in new orders and business activity
• The picture in Northern Ireland was gloomier than across the UK as a whole, where new orders returned to growth
• Employment remained a bright spot as firms continued to take on extra staff, looking to rebuild capacity and secure a greater range of skills after having faced struggles recruiting staff in previous years
• Inflationary pressures showed signs of softening. Input costs increased at the slowest pace in 2025 so far, providing some respite for firms. Where costs did rise, wages were again a key feature of company reports
A MORE POSITIVE SCENARIO
On the flipside, the latest Department for the Economy NI Economic Index painted a much more positive scenario. It showed that:
• Economic activity in Northern Ireland increased by 2.0 per cent in real terms over the quarter to Quarter 2 2025
• Compared to Quarter 2 2024, Northern Ireland output has increased by 3.5 per cent
• Northern Ireland economic output is now 12.1 per cent above the prepandemic level seen in Quarter 4 2019
• When assessing annualised change, Northern Ireland output has increased by 2.8 per cent
• The largest contribution to change this quarter came from increased activity in the services sector (1.3 percentage points (pps))
• The increase over the year in economic activity was driven by positive contributions from all sectors
• Northern Ireland private sector output as measured by the NICEI increased by 2.4 per cent over the quarter and increased by 3.8 per cent over the year. Northern Ireland public sector output as measured by the NICEI increased by 0.7 per cent over the quarter and by 2.6 per cent over the year
• Although the measures are not produced on a fully equivalent basis, UK Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased by 0.3 per cent over the quarter and by 1.2 per cent over the year to Quarter 2 2025. UK GDP is now 4.5 per cent above its prepandemic level seen in Quarter 4 2019
NORTHERN IRELAND CONSTRUCTION BULLETIN
Specifically for construction the latest Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin published on 25th September showed promising industry performance:
In Quarter 2 2025 the total volume of construction output increased by 3.8 per cent over the quarter, increased by 7.3 per cent over the year and increased by 9.7 per cent on a rolling four quarters basis
In the second quarter of 2025, construction output reached a 15-year high and is currently 79.7 per cent above the series low seen in Quarter 2 2020
In the second quarter of 2025 construction output was 21.9 per cent above the prepandemic level seen in Quarter 4 2019
In Quarter 2 2025, increases were seen in both new work (6.3 per cent) and repair and maintenance (2.6 per cent)
In Quarter 2 2025, there was a decrease in both infrastructure (1.0 per cent) and other work (0.3 per cent) subsectors. However, the housing subsector increased by 15.6 per cent
For more information on the latest construction bulletin, visit www.nisra. gov.uk/statistics/economic-output/ construction-output-statistics.
FALTERING GROWTH AND UNCERTAIN GROUND
So make of those two reports what you will! The recent MPA Economic Briefing stated that in terms of the UK economy things remain fragile, with momentum likely to stay constrained through the rest of the year. Persistent inflationary pressures and the drag from higher taxes on businesses are weighing heavily on jobs and growth. The labour market has continued to soften, while at the same time, household finances are being squeezed by high inflation. This has reduced the prospect of additional interest rate cuts this year, which in turn, is likely to slow the recovery in housing demand further into 2026. There is unlikely to be any let-up in business uncertainty in the near term as concerns grow over additional tax rises at the Budget on November 26.
As for UK construction growth in output, this year appears overstated by the ONS, with other indicators pointing to falling activity. In fact, a number of economists locally have stated that the ONS figures have resulted in the overstated data by the Department for the Economy locally. Primarily, there seems to be little confidence to invest in the UK against a backdrop of faltering growth, rising finance and construction costs, and increased business
Gordon Best, MPANI
taxes. Housing remains stuck in first gear, hampered by affordability constraints, even as mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level in three years.
Regulatory bottlenecks at the BSR are further compounding the issues for high rise residential and mixed developments. Infrastructure and commercial contract awards have seen little improvement since last year, signalling weak sentiment and few new projects entering the pipeline.
MISPLACED HOPE
In July past we met with the Infrastructure Minister, Liz Kimmins, on two occasions, and have presented to the Assembly Infrastructure Committee twice.
Our Highway Maintenance Group members informed both the Minister and committee members of the now very critical situation within the highway maintenance sector as the 2025 / 26 initial road maintenance budget is now spent and only a minimal amount of maintenance work remains. The industry had held out hope that the Minister would have made some changes to the balance of the 2025/26 DfI Capital Budget to ensure adequate funding for road maintenance. However, it seems this hope was misplaced.
Following the debate in the House on Monday 15th September and the Minister’s statements we have no doubt that the Minister is under significant pressure to balance the Department’s capital budget and members from across all parties highlighted examples from their own constituencies of the deteriorating road network and the impact it is having on the safety of the travelling public, whether travelling in a car, a lorry, a bus, cycling or walking on the footways.
A KNOCK-ON IMPACT
The imminent October monitoring round will deliver some hope. It is vital that any money handed back to the centre is reallocated by DoF to the DfI for structural roads maintenance to ensure adequate funding for the rest of this financial year. In simple terms, the indicative budget of £68 million is nowhere near what was required to keep the road network safe and protect the hundreds of skilled workers that provide quality services and products to the Department for Infrastructure. Members delivered a very strong and alarming message to the MLAs of what is happening on the ground and what the lack of structural maintenance funding means for their businesses, their skilled workforce and the delivery of social clause within their contracts and the knock-on impact on apprenticeships, support for local communities and charities.
The reality we are facing at present is that this Executive and this Assembly are going to oversee the most severe deterioration in the £40 billion road asset than any previous administration. MPANI met with Local Council Senior Planners Group (SPG) on June 26 in Lisburn to discuss many issues of concern for our mineral products sector. Namely:
• Establishment of a skilled, wellresourced shared service for mineral and waste planning
• Time-scales for planning decisions
• Fast-tracking of renewable energy infrastructure on MPANI members sites
• Use of financial guarantees
The Regional Director was accompanied by Emma Kelly of Turleys, Paul Hamill, FP McCann, and Chris Tinsley, Quarryplan.
The meeting was chaired by Rosemary Daly, DfI Head of Planning, and had representatives from across all 11 local councils. We covered a number of key issues:
1. The need for council engagement with individual operators to discuss available and future reserves as part of mineral safeguarding areas
2. Collaboration with MPANI and other stakeholders through a local minerals forum
3. Local planners minerals training
4. Enforcement
Rosemary Daly gave us an update on Planning Reform, highlighting the ongoing collaboration between DfI and local councils and engagement with statutory consultees. She highlighted the challenges facing the system and work with NILGA. She said that planning fees had not kept up with costs of delivery. She also mentioned the ongoing wider stakeholder engagement, of which MPANI are one. MPANI attended the Planning Round Table back in April 2025 which was widely welcomed by everyone. DfI intend to:
• Hold a statutory consultee forum
• Improve efficiency and effectiveness
• Ongoing monitoring of performance
• Strengthen engagement between consultees and local government
• Reviewing and updating on line guidance
• Improving the wellbeing of planners within the system and building skills and capacity
• Establishing a Minerals Working Group
INDUSTRY ADVOCACY
As readers will be aware, MPA have lobbied strongly on the UK governments plan to amend the Landfill Tax and its implication for the quarrying sector.
MPA have penned a number of articles in Politics Home across August to amplify our campaigns on a number of issues. In one article, MPA highlighted how the Treasury’s proposed changes to Landfill Tax would risk quarries being mothballed, the pace of restoration of former quarry sites slowing, pressure on the supply of essential building materials for housebuilding and infrastructure, and increased inert waste disposal costs for constructors. MPA have called for the proposals, which would damage the government’s ambitions for housing, infrastructure, and the environment, to be scrapped and have put forward alternative ideas; and our campaign has previously been covered by the influential Guido Fawkes news site. You can view the article in full here: www.politicshome.com/members/ article/littleknown-tax-tweak-proposalbury-governments-housebuilding-dream. There has been no feedback as yet from HMRC and it is more than likely a policy statement will be made in the Budget in November.
On the consultation responses it seems Northern Ireland has caught “Consultitis”, we have been working hard on getting our members’ views on a number of both departmental and local council consultations. The Association has responded to the Department for Infrastructure Consultation on the 2035 Transport Strategy. To download and view our response, visit https://mcusercontent. com/0e749f02c5a58b746bd03b5a8/ files/88dd560f-70c6-e204-027e-c61d0ec03df8/ MPANI_Response_Transport_Strategy.pdf.
CLIMATE ACTION PLAN CONSULTATION
To view the association’s response, visit https://mcusercontent. com/0e749f02c5a58b746bd03b5a8/ files/7b3aee43-6368-c921-d205-3aa6d61f3f67/ MPANI_response_to_climate_change_ action_plan_August_2025.pdf.
We have also responded to the DAERA climate adaption plan, the Newry Mourne and Down draft plan strategy and will be responding to the DAERA consultation on the new Environment and Water Bill, Green Hydrogen Strategy and the DfI consultation on sustainable urban drainage systems. 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
NEW HORIZONS FOR CRUSHING & SCREENING SERVICES NI
In a dynamic industry where rapid response and reliable services are crucial, Crushing & Screening Services NI (CSSNI) is continuing to elevate its operations to meet the needs of its customers across Ireland by supporting their quarry equipment. From expanding its fleet with another van to enhance coverage, to investing in the next generation through apprenticeships, the company has been setting new benchmarks for its own success. To find out more, Plant & Civil Engineer caught up with Owner and Managing Director, Enda Keenan.
GROWING TOGETHER
As a pivotal source of support for the crushing and screening sector, Clogher-based CSSNI is witnessing its reputation accelerate at rapid speed. This overwhelming response from customers has catalysed further growth for the company; notably the addition of another service engineer and a fourth van to better accommodate the team’s busy
schedules and boost its service capabilities.
The decision to expand the company –particularly in the short timeframe since its last additions – didn’t come lightly for Enda, but it was a necessitated action borne out of his recognition that downtime for his clients is a critical issue that can’t be tolerated.
“As our services became more in demand, I worried that we weren’t getting to customers fast enough. I hate the prospect of a customer calling and us not being able to get out to them straight away – there would be times I wouldn’t sleep at night thinking about it.
“Taking on these extra guys, as well as introducing the extra van, has really cured that problem. If a customer calls, I can tell them I’ll get one of the team out to them straight away.”
Equipped with the extra personnel, CSSNI is continuing its mission to deliver a rapid response service, allowing for the swift resumption of normal operations for the company’s clients, thereby maintaining
high levels of customer satisfaction and operational efficiency across all sites.
“There’s no service like a rapid repair service – especially within the quarrying industry. Down time is the enemy,” emphasised Enda. “Recently a guy from Co Wicklow called me on a Saturday evening, advising that his machine was down and he had no stone on the ground for Monday. I got into the van at 6am Sunday morning and went down to him to help. I wasn’t home until 9pm that night, but there was no better feeling knowing that he was up and running for Monday morning.
“Customers will always remember that we always like to go above and beyond for them.”
NURTURING THE INDUSTRY’S FUTURE
Having gleaned lessons along the way in the process of constructing his own company, Enda is eager to share his knowledge and bolster the abilities of budding young minds who possess potential in the sector too. It was this mindset – coupled with Enda’s awareness that an extra team member could assist with the company’s jobs that require two people and play the role of floating between the four vans – that sparked his recent decision to take on a 17-year-old apprentice.
“This was important for me, especially when there are few young people coming through the industry wanting to do this kind of work because they don’t see the long-term opportunities. I want to share my knowledge and experience with somebody who will benefit from it for years to come – showing them that while the job is hard work, the self-satisfaction and benefits down the line are worth it,” explained Enda.
The addition of apprentices to his team is certainly a pathway which Enda is keen to continue pursuing.
“Definitely through time I’d like to hire more apprentices. A lot of young people come into the industry and can find it daunting, especially if people don’t give them a chance to explore their options.
“The industry is going to need them. I visit quarries six days a week and the reality is we need more workers.”
QUALITY FIRST
In further exciting news, CSSNI has branched out into other horizons – becoming the official agent for Mol lubricants on the island of Ireland. In this role, CSSNI can supply a full range of any requested oils and lubricants for the industrial, marine, agri and transport sectors, in which the leading-edge quality products can be employed for passenger cars, motorbikes, commercial vehicles, agricultural and industrial machines.
“When I was approached about taking on the agency, I explained that there is no point in me selling the products unless I have the approvals from the major manufacturers. I carry out a lot of work on new plant and old plant, machines with and without warranty – if I don’t have the approvals, I’m wasting my time.
“As I say to any customer using the products, I’m not a salesperson trying to
make as much as I can and then forget about them. I am using the full range myself, and if any of my customers have any concerns, I’m only a call away,” said Enda.
“The lubricants are approved, they save the customer money, and all the while it's a quality product with 100 per cent back-up support from me.”
Managing the logistical workload, plus being on the road, as well as a guiding influence for the rest of the team may
seem like quite the formidable balancing act – but Enda is thriving on it, and already has his sights set on what’s next.
“I would like us to expand into bigger and long-term projects, like one of our current jobs which involves dismantling a CDE wash plant in Co Meath, carrying out a full refurb, then installing on a new site in Co Kildare. In the future, I would also like us to take on experienced people with plant experience –meaning that we would be a one-stop-shop, offering the full package for any quarry.”
QMS PROVIDES NEW B3 CONE CRUSHER FOR TANZANIA GOLD MINE
Extracting gold from rock can be a tricky process.
The rewards are high however, which leads to the sourcing of highly productive, safe, efficient and tough equipment to be of vital importance.
To this end, Tanzanian company Shanta Gold recently acquired a Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies – QMS – B3 cone crusher for its New Luika Gold Mine. The acquisition was based on the attributes of the cone crusher and the aftermarket support provided by the UK based manufacturer.
Shanta Gold is an Africa focused gold producer, developer and explorer. Shanta’s avowed aim is to be a growth-driven, people-focused, and responsible business, motivated by a commitment to deliver longterm value for all stakeholders.
Shanta’s portfolio includes
two operational gold mines in Tanzania: the New Luika Gold Mine and the Singida Gold Mine (as well as the West Kenya Gold Project in Kenya).
The New Luika Gold Mine is based in the Songwe District
of Southwestern Tanzania, approximately 700 km south west of Dar es Salaam. The mine is an open pit and underground operation with a reputation as a safe and efficient gold mining operation.
The mine’s open pit operations is contractor-based, whereby the contractor supplies and operate the equipment. In this case, Shanta Gold provides technical guidance and supervision, including mine design, mine planning, mine survey and geological inputs. The underground operation, in this case, involves mechanised long hole stoping with paste backfilling. All underground operations are performed by New Luika employees.
COMPLEX PROCESSING OPERATION
The processing of the rock at the New Luika Gold Mine, in this case granite, is metallurgically simple and conventional, involving proven crushing and milling techniques with carbon-in-leach gold extraction delivering robust
gold recoveries. New Luika has two tailings storage facilities designed and engineered to meet the leading industry practises and in alignment with New Luika life of mine production plan. Playing a key role in the development of the mine has been Dutch company Maagd Industrial Engineering BV, which has more than 25 years of experience in developing bulk handling technology.
When it came to the replacement of the existing cone crusher at New Luika, Maagd was instrumental in assessing what was on offer globally, and what was the most suitable for the mine. To this end, and following an exhaustive process, a QMS B3 cone crusher was selected and acquired. QMS is already active in this part of Africa, with a reputation for supplying hard wearing, functional and productive equipment all backed by leading aftermarket care.
The B3 cone crusher was installed by QMS’ Tom Evans, who due to his familiarity with the site and how the B3 fits in with the production process, will also be on call to provide any technical help should the situation arise.
Tom has also been integral in training Shanta Gold staff in the use of the cone crusher. The B3 cone crusher now runs for
approximately 100 hours per week, crushing granite down to -25mm. This is designed to aid the gold extraction process, while at the same time produce a valuable
aggregate for use on the site and local infrastructure projects.
BUILT FOR THE TASK
QMS’ B3 cone crushers consist 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, the QMS B-Series – of which the B3 is an integral part – is manufactured with high quality cast steel components and premium spherical roller bearings that directly contributes to reliability and high performance. This sturdy manufacturing is key in providing the New Luika Mine with a productive, reliable and hard wearing piece of equipment.
“A blend of high motor power, large eccentric throw and increased speed give the B3 cone crusher at the New Luika Mine greater capacity than other crushers of comparable size, while its truly modern design creates excellent product shape, being able to be configured to maximise production of premium single sized aggregates,” says Jonathan Beck, QMS Managing Director, who added: “We are able to support our equipment with our own engineers and have the industry knowledge to adapt the plant to suit Shanta Gold’s New Luika unique requirements. This shows that our products and service provide the ideal solution whatever the size of operation, whatever the material, wherever the equipment is required in the world.”
Shanta Gold acquired a QMS B3 cone crusher for its New Luika Gold Mine.
PILLAR OF FINLAY, DAVID LYONS, RETIRES AFTER 45 YEARS
Finlay®, global manufacturer of mobile crushing, screening, and conveying equipment, has announced the retirement of David Lyons, a cornerstone of the brand’s customer support and product development teams for over 45 years.
Widely recognised as the voice behind Finlay’s customer service, David’s departure offers an opportunity to reflect on Finlay’s transformation from a local manufacturing firm to a globally-recognised brand.
David’s career began during a very different era of industrial design, when Finlay’s design process relied on hand-drawn sketches and large drawing boards. Starting in the drawing office, a role he secured after a memorable on-the-spot drawing test with founder, John Finlay, his first assignment involved hand-drafting an axle for a Finlay Hydrascreen, in a long, drawing room office.
“There were no computers when I started, everything was drawn by hand,” he recalled.
“John Finlay used to sketch ideas on the back of cigarette packets. It didn’t always make sense at first, but we got stuck in and made it work.”
A key change was during the shift into digital in the 1990s. Having never used a computer, he was sent, alongside two colleagues, on a condensed training course in Belfast.
“It was meant to take a year at technical college, and we were told to do it in three days,” he laughed.
“We came back, and the next Monday there was a computer sitting on my desk. I still only use two fingers, but it got the job done.”
As Finlay evolved, so did David’s responsibilities. He transitioned from design to management, playing a pivotal role in establishing the brand’s first helpdesk and customer support department.
Inheriting leadership positions due to his organisational skills and ability to support and mentor others, his people-first philosophy leadership was crucial in building the foundational relationships with dealers and customers that the brand relies on today.
Known for his listening ear and practical, honest approach, David remained a consistent voice of support for anyone facing machine issues, whether under warranty or well beyond it.
“I’ve always said, surround yourself with good people, give them responsibility, and let them go do the job. That’s what makes a team work,” he noted.
“And when problems come up –don’t be afraid of them. Face them, solve them, and move forward.”
Even in “heated debates,” his fairness was a hallmark of his approach to customer relations, and he always strove to get the “right people talking to the right people.”
Among his proudest accomplishments is his role in the development of the Finlay 393 screener in the early 1990s. This machine became a critical factor in the brand’s recovery and growth after the tragic and untimely passing of John Finlay in 1986. He also played a key role in the successful launch and expansion of the Finlay crusher range. David holds a particular pride in the Finlay 883 screener, which he describes as “robust, reliable, and built to get the job done, no fuss – a bit like myself!”
David Lyons’ retirement gift included a Finlay crystal with a personalised Finlay serial plate in recognition of his service. Throughout his tenure, David witnessed the transition of Finlay from a family-run business to a global entity. His legacy is etched not only in the machines he helped design and support but in the culture of respect and dedication he fostered.
Matt Dickson, Business Line Director for Finlay, said: “While David’s presence will be missed, his contributions have laid a solid foundation for Finlay’s continued success, upholding the strap line David himself is proud of, “Strong Heritage, Strong Future.” On behalf of the entire team, I thank him for his valuable contributions to Finlay over the years and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.”
David Lyons, pictured earlier in his career, was always known for his humility, practical mindset, and people-first approach.
David Lyons pictured with his wife, Judith, at his Finlay retirement party.
David Lyons pictured in front of a Finlay J-1175, with Simon Meester, President and Chief Executive Officer of Terex.
David Lyons receiving his 45 years of service award from Matt Dickson, GM of Terex Omagh (L) and Kieran McCrossan, Operations Director (R).
SEARCH WORKSHOP SUPPLIES FOCUS ON COMMERCIAL VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
Agricultural, earth moving and other specialist vehicles bring their own challenges when lifting them is required in the workshop. The addition of adaptors to the Stertil-Koni Mobile Column Lift provides a way to meet these challenges, without any impact on health and safety considerations. For any that are not familiar with these mobile column lifts - they’re the type of equipment that once purchased you’ll wonder how you managed without. Irrespective of the number of lifts being used, once synchronised they are controlled from just one unit - seamlessly. They can be safely used in or outdoors. In
most workshop situations, a full battery charge will last up to two weeks. Using adaptors when lifting awkwardly shaped specialist vehicles is a real asset. In many situations two lifts will provide the lifting capacity required. Positioning them front and rear of the vehicle will ensure unimpeded access to the complete underside, plus allowing for wheel-off tasks to be carried out - all in the safest possible manner. A maximum safe lifting height of 1.85m is sufficient for any task. SWS are an approved dealer and installer for Stertil-Koni workshop equipment across Ireland.As one of their Autumn Specials
SWS are offering a pair of these lifts with adaptors at a considerably reduced price of £14,950 + VAT. The pair of lifts have a combined lifting capacity of 15,000kg, other capacities are available on enquiry.
INSTITUTE OF QUARRYING’S ANNUAL GOLF DAY IS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS
The Institute of Quarrying recently held its much-anticipated Annual Golf Day at Edenmore Golf & Country Club – and what a fantastic day it was! Blessed with great weather and even better company, members and guests enjoyed a spirited day on the fairways, all in support of two wonderful causes: the Chairman’s Charities, NI Hospice and Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity. As a result of the generosity of all who took part – from players and sponsors to organisers and supporters – the event raised much-needed funds to help both charities continue their vital work. The organising team is extending its gratitude to everyone who made the day such a success – and is already looking towards another great event next year!
IOQ four ball team: Ricky Ashton, Matthew Greer, Ian Gilchrist and Steven McGookin.
Team prize: the R McCann Construction team.
The Breedon team.
The Northstone team.
Edenmore Golf & Country Club.
The member prize went to Adam McClusky.
NORTHERN LIFT TRUCKS IS RAISING THE HIRE INDUSTRY TO NEW HEIGHTS OF SUCCESS
For 40 years – a momentous milestone marked this year – Northern Lift Trucks (NLT) have cultivated a legacy characterised by excellence, quality, and a steadfast commitment to their customer base. The company provide state-of-the-art equipment solutions to the agricultural, construction, industrial, waste and hire sectors, offering a diverse range of machinery, including telescopic handlers, excavators, loaders, skid steers, forklift trucks, warehousing solutions, and access platforms.
Building on their esteemed reputation is NLT’s ongoing relationship with industry leader, Manitou. From the beginning, Manitou has developed state-of-the-art machinery, in which its range today is grouped into the categories of handling equipment, and aerial work platforms. All of its ranges are guaranteed to deliver unprecedented performances, perfect manoeuvrability, ease of use, adaptability, resistance, safety, and much more. Together, NLT and Manitou are perfectly matched to ensure that companies have access to high-quality, durable, versatile machinery suitable for various projects, applications and industries.
DRIVING A CUSTOMERCENTRIC CULTURE
Long credited as a popular supplier for the hire industry, NLT fuse their extensive range of reliable, innovative equipment with exceptional customer service. Their dedicated team are always available to provide expert guidance and superior, responsive service, working closely with customers to ensure they receive the right equipment and support whenever needed. The team believe that fostering trust and consistent, hassle-free service is key to mutual success, guaranteeing that their customers can depend on them for ongoing operational requirements and optimal efficiency.
A LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH CP HIRE
One of NLT’s successful partnerships is their long-time collaboration with CP Hire. Established in 1971 by Norman Hutchinson, the company originally traded as Coleraine Plant Hire, and over the years have grown to operate seven depots across Northern Ireland. Throughout this journey, CP Hire have frequently turned to NLT to fulfil their equipment needs.
“Our relationship with NLT goes back around 40 years – it’s one of our longest-standing supplier partnerships,” reflected CP Hire Managing Director, Andrew Hutchinson.
“It began through our knowledge of the Manitou brand. We recognised the quality and innovation in their machines early on, and NLT has been one of our go-to suppliers ever since. Manitou equipment is robust, reliable, and designed with both operators and hire businesses in mind. With a two-year warranty and solid build quality, it offers great value across the board.
“The Manitou range covers everything from telehandlers to forklifts and access platforms. It’s broad, reliable, and very well-suited to the hire industry.”
With maintenance costs and downtime representing core concerns across the hire industry, Andrew points to the confidence and competence instilled through Manitou’s machines.
“Manitou’s build quality and engineering reduce the likelihood of issues, which lowers
our maintenance costs and keeps machines on hire longer. That reliability means we can offer better uptime for our customers – which is essential in the hire business.”
Needless to say, Andrew can speak volumes about the value which NLT bring as a partner in the hire industry, particularly noting “the broad range of machinery available for construction, including telehandlers, forklifts, boom lifts etc.; the consistent quality of the Manitou product; and, importantly, the dependable after-sales service.”
“NLT always has machines available when we need them, and their support keeps our operations running smoothly.”
“NLT provides excellent support from the first enquiry right through to delivery and after-sales care. Communication is clear and consistent, and they’re always easy to deal with. They understand our market well and are proactive in forward planning. That makes a big difference – especially when demand fluctuates or project timelines are tight.
“The quality of the Manitou machines is key, but so is the strong relationship with the NLT team. They understand what we need and deliver every time.”
ACCESS MADE EASY
CP Hire’s latest order from NLT was for 50 machines – including forklifts, telehandlers, boom lifts, and scissor lifts: “a significant investment, and we trust NLT to supply and support those machines with the same level of service we’ve come to expect,” explained Andrew.
Among the machines was the Man’go 12 – which has already solidified its standing as an access asset to CP Hire, as well as its customers’ operations.
“The Man’go 12 combines all-terrain capability with compact dimensions,” praised Andrew. “It’s used across a range of sectors for indoor and outdoor work. Its compact size and lighter footprint make it ideal for tight spaces and sensitive surfaces — perfect for jobs where access is tricky.”
Having also taken delivery of the 160 ATJ+, Andrew and his customers alike have been impressed by the versatility generated through the specifications: “The larger capacity basket – rated to 400kg — allows three people to work safely at height, rather than just two. That extra capacity gives our customers more flexibility and efficiency on site. Customers regularly request the ATJ range by name due to the four-wheel steer, 360° rotation, and proportional controls make it easy and efficient to use. It’s become the operator’s choice.”
JOINT SUCCESS WITH KELLYS POINT HIRE
NLT’s collaboration with Kellys Point Hire is another example of the company’s proven track-record of sustaining industry relationships. Based in Warrenpoint, Kellys Point Hire possess one of the largest hire fleets in Ireland – and for over 25 years, NLT have aided its advancement.
“It all started back in 1999 when our father, Leonard, purchased five MT1232 telehandlers from Eugene McComiskey at NLT. That initial purchase laid the foundation for what has become a trusted and successful relationship,” reflected Gary Kelly, Director at Kellys Point Hire.
“In September 2023, Eugene retired and handed things over to Richard Sloan. The transition was smooth and professional, thanks to NLT’s solid team and business continuity. While Richard has stepped in seamlessly, it’s the consistent quality and reliability of NLT as a whole that keeps us coming back.”
The evolution of the relationship has been on an upward trajectory since.
“Over the years, we’ve consistently added a wide range of equipment to our fleet through NLT – including Manitou MT models, MRT rotating telehandlers, Manitou access platforms, boom lifts, and Hyundai excavators. It’s been a mutually beneficial partnership built on trust and shared values.”
As for the drivers behind the company’s eagerness to continuously seek NLT’s
working at height
equipment for their needs, Gary echoes Andrew’s sentiment that the team’s service is simply incomparable.
“Whether we’re making a first enquiry or arranging delivery, NLT makes the whole process seamless. The service really is first-class and their after-sales support is second to none. Of course, the machines themselves are extremely reliable, but on the odd occasion that an issue does come up, NLT are quick to respond and resolve it. Minimising downtime is crucial in our business – customers depend on us to deliver reliable, ready-to-work equipment every time, for the whole duration of their project.”
AHEAD OF THE GAME
Kellys Point Hire’s decision to attain Manitou machinery can be attributed to the brand’s impactful blend of both innovation and reliability.
“Manitou is constantly innovating and launching new models, which keeps us ahead of the game. Being at the forefront gives us different opportunities. The Manitou range gives us the flexibility to offer tailored solutions for a wide variety of customer needs – whether it’s construction, maintenance, or specialised projects,” explained Gary.
“We’ve used Manitou for many years. It’s a brand that stands for quality and reliability, which reflects directly on us. Our customers know they’re getting dependable equipment when they hire from us.”
Adding to Kellys Point Hire’s Manitou lineup is their recent purchase of the SE 0808 scissor lift. Speaking on how the model’s specifications has enhanced its hire offering to customers, Gary said: “It’s a brand-new model, and we were impressed with its sturdy, robust design and overall build quality –which we’ve come to expect from Manitou. These were the first two SE 0808 machines delivered from a larger upcoming order.
“The SE 0808 has a strong, compact design, ideal for indoor use. It features side and rear forklift pockets, allowing it to be lifted from both the side and rear, making for easy transportation – a small detail that makes a big difference in terms of site efficiency.
“Feedback has been very positive. Customers are more than pleased with how smoothly the SE 0808 operates – it’s easy to use, reliable, and built to a high standard.”
As is expected from Manitou, safety and efficiency have been forefront considerations of the SE 0808.
“It has a one-piece door that makes operator access much easier and safer. That, combined with its compact footprint, makes it ideal for painters, electricians, signwriters, internal fit-outs, and renovations.”
Gary continued: “Equipment quality and safety are absolutely critical in this business. We need to know we can trust our machines – and our suppliers. NLT gives us that confidence. They’re a dealer we can rely on to stand behind their products and support us when needed.”
KEEPING THE MOMENTUM GOING
With 40 years of experience behind NLT, they are very much looking forward to the next 40 ahead, supplying a wide range of customers, old and new – including CP Hire, as Andrew confirmed: “After 40 years working with NLT, we’re looking forward to continuing the relationship for many more.”
The Kellys Point Hire team is similarly committed to ongoing co-operation with NLT, explained Gary: “We’ve worked with NLT for 27 years now, and we’re looking forward to many more. Their support, reliability, and knowledge are an essential part of our ongoing success.”
Reflecting on the company’s continued progress, Richard Sloan, Sales Director at NLT, commented: “We’re very pleased with our ever-increasing market share in the Northern Ireland access market. With Manitou’s ongoing investment and innovation across their access machinery range — particularly with the recently launched scissor lifts — our position in the market is set to go from strength to strength.
“We greatly value the business of our longstanding customers - including CP Hire and Kellys Point Hire, to name just a few — and we look forward to continuing to work closely with them in the years ahead.”
JCB UNVEILS ELECTRIC AND HYBRID ACCESS PLATFORMS
JCB continues to expand its growing range of powered access equipment, with the preview of the A60E and A60EH articulated boom models.
Offering a choice of full battery electric or electric hybrid drivelines, the platforms are capable of zero-emission operation and extended run times.
Key features include:
• Two power options, battery electric and electric hybrid
• Four-wheel drive, with two-wheel steering and foam-filled non-marking tyres
• A platform capacity of 300kg unrestricted and 454kg restricted
• Platform height of 18.2m with horizontal outreach of 11.9m
SUSTAINABLE AND SMART
Building on the success of the A45E and A45EH articulated booms, the new A60E and A60EH will offer an increased platform height of up to 18.2m. The booms have a horizontal outreach of 11.9m and they offer 360° rotation for maximum access to the working area. An intuitive joystick control, with a functional speed control, provides full height to ground level functionality.
Accommodating up to three occupants, the booms have an unrestricted capacity of 300kg, that can be taken to 454kg in restricted use. They have gate and drop-bar entry, with three access points for ease of operation.
As part of JCB’s commitment to delivering low-emission solutions without compromise, the A60E and A60EH have regenerative technology to recover electrical energy during braking. They also make use of IP67 ingress-protected drive motors, for maximum durability and reliability.
The A60E is powered by eight 6V AGM batteries, with a 400Ah capacity. This full electric model delivers zero-emission, lownoise operation that is perfect for indoor and urban work sites. Those looking to extend runtimes, have the option of the A60EH, which combines its electric drive with a Kohler KDW1003 diesel engine, offering 14.8kW of power. Equipped with a 40-litre fuel tank, this option provides additional flexibility on remote sites and extended working times. Both of the articulating boom platforms, which share up to 52 per cent of their components with the existing A45 models, have fourwheel drive and two-wheel steering, for manoeuvrability and productivity on site. The machines are equipped with foam-filled, non-marking tyres, for use inside buildings, yet offer up to 40 per cent gradeability for maximum performance on rough terrain. With a stowed length of just 8.8m, the booms have an overall width of 2.5m. A compact tail swing of just 0.65m makes them easy to transport and to manoeuvre on site. Equipped with a seven-inch base display, power to the platform and JCB LiveLink as standard, the A60E and A60EH deliver maximum safety, uptime and productivity.
A60E and A60EH.
working at height
MERLO PANORAMIC
TELEHANDLERS: WHERE PRECISION MEETS POWER AND SAFETY IS NEVER AN AFTERTHOUGHT
Merlo’s Panoramic range of stabilised telehandlers is engineered for performance, safety, and versatility— making it a standout solution for modern construction demands.
With six core models, including the P40.12, P40.13, P40.14, and P40.17 (all boasting a 4-ton lift capacity and lift heights from 12 to 17 metres), the range offers serious capability. Topping the lineup is the P50.18, featuring a 5-ton capacity and an 18-metre reach, while the compact P35.11 delivers stabilised performance where space is at a premium.
COMPACT YET STABLE
At the heart of the Panoramic range is Merlo’s clever stabiliser design. Mounted in line with the front axle, the stabilisers extend within the machine’s overall width, preserving a tight footprint ideal for urban or congested job sites. This configuration ensures optimal lifting stability even on uneven ground, allowing precise load placement in challenging environments.
BUILT-IN PRECISION: CHASSIS LEVELLING AND BOOM SIDE SHIFT
Every Panoramic model comes standard with chassis levelling, a key feature that hydraulically adjusts the front axle to level the machine before lifting. When stabilisers are deployed, the system enables up to 10 degrees of tilt correction—enough to compensate for an 18-degree slope. Add to that the boom side shift function— controlled via a joystick roller—and operators can laterally reposition the boom head with precision, without needing to reposition the entire machine. This is especially beneficial for loading materials, placing pallets, or positioning items on scaffolding with pinpoint accuracy.
PLATFORM-READY WITH BUILT-IN SAFETY
Panoramic telehandlers can be equipped as platform-ready for safe use with Merlo’s TreEmme personnel baskets. A mechanical locking pin provides added security against detachment, while remote lift control from the platform allows for smooth, controlled positioning close
to structures—minimising the risk of accidental contact or material damage.
OPERATOR-CENTRIC SAFETY AND COMFORT
Safety and operator protection are integral to the Panoramic design. The ROPS/FOPS II-certified cab includes reinforced glass, a windscreen guard, and roof protection to shield against falling debris. Visibility is assured in all weather conditions with wipers on the front, rear, and roof panels.
ENGINEERED FOR EFFICIENCY AND POWER
Under the hood, base models feature a 75hp Kohler engine that simplifies emissions compliance by eliminating the need for DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid). For more demanding applications, PLUS and TOP versions are powered by a 116hp Perkins engine.
All variants come equipped with a 2-speed, hydrostatic transmission (33kph on standard models and 40kph on PLUS models) and Merlo’s ECO Power Drive (EPD) system. EPD optimises fuel use—cutting consumption
by up to 18%—while features like a programmable hand throttle, cruise control, and a self-accelerating joystick give operators refined control and focus on the task at hand.
SMART SAFETY: ADAPTIVE STABILITY CONTROL
Merlo’s Adaptive Stability Control System (ASCS) provides real-time load monitoring to ensure safe operation at all times. TreEmme attachments benefit from automatic load chart recognition, while EN15000-compliant sensors enhance crane and winch operations—further reinforcing operator confidence and load security.
BUILT FOR THE BUILD
From lifting roof trusses and positioning brick pallets to placing loads on upper floors or scaffolding, Merlo’s Panoramic range is purpose-built for the rigours of housebuilding and commercial construction. With impressive reach, compact stability, and cutting-edge safety and control systems, Panoramic telehandlers deliver unmatched precision and performance in high-reach, material-handling tasks.
P40-17 uneven ground construction site.
ROTO 50.35 SPLUS
4.95 34
4.95 34
Dealer Locator
HOW GROUNDFORCE CAN SUPPORT UISCE ÉIREANN PROJECTS
Ireland’s leading supplier of Specialist Construction Equipment
As the needs of the construction industry changes and demands increase, it is good to know that Groundforce is well-positioned to face the challenges presented by aging infrastructure and robust environmental legislation.
As the leading supplier of specialist construction support services, Groundforce is more than able to deliver vital operational support to Uisce Éireann projects. With fast delivery and flexibility at the heart of its operation, and with a strategically-based depot in Lisburn, Groundforce can confidently support Uisce Éireann across the entire country.
A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF PRODUCTS
Uisce Éireann aims to deliver safe, sustainable water and wastewater services, reduce leakage and undertake vital maintenance and repairs to the water network. To facilitate these essential works, Groundforce provides a fleet of modular shoring, trenching and excavation support systems; crucial for safe and efficient utility projects, particularly for deep water mains, sewers and culvert-based systems. Such equipment may include:
• Trench boxes (range of sizes and types available)
• 5m manhole box
• Dual access platform (new)
• Trench sheets / Larsen sheet piles
• Range of bracing systems
• Piling hammers
• Davit arms
• Edge protection / access, egress solutions
GROUNDFORCE’S RANGE OF SPECIALIST EQUIPMENT
With a portfolio of products stretching far beyond the usual scope of typical construction equipment, Groundforce successfully offers niche products, providing a range of equipment for more specialist areas. For example, advanced pipe pressure testing procedures are made possible using
Pressure Test+, a bespoke app which gives real-time predictions and instant test results. Groundforce also offers a range of EMVs, side grip piling hammers, impact hammers and Culvert Pullers: a resolute commitment to continued investment means more specialist equipment has been introduced. For example, SWARM Vibration Monitor is the most efficient, high-quality vibration monitoring system on the market.
Incorporating MEMS technology, the SWARM Vibration Monitor takes accurate real-time measurements and sends data wirelessly to an online web platform: a huge benefit for Uisce Éireann contractors and critical for sensitive projects operating in urban environments.
DIGITAL INNOVATION MAKES GROUNDFORCE A SLICK AND AGILE OPERATION
Groundforce’s use of advanced design software and 3D modelling empowers engineers to visualise and plan complex temporary works in advance; reducing the likelihood of unforeseen complications on-site and facilitating cost-efficient and timely outcomes.
The introduction of YourSolution and YourSolution+ sends Groundforce’s service offering to another level. Hailed as a game-changer by contractors working in temporary works, and finalist at the Construction Marketing Awards (CMA) 2023, this innovative tool allows those working in Uisce Éireann projects to speed up the way they can receive a temporary works design by inputting basic information.
Available 24/7 via the Groundforce Customer Portal, YourSolution takes a task that is complex on many levels
and simplifies the process; making it much faster and far less laborious.
For Uisce Éireann projects, this is a great resource when a fast solution is paramount, for example when undertaking emergency water repair works.
At Groundforce, the offering is unique in that while it offers the equipment expected by
other industry suppliers, it has also tuned-in to the wishes of its customers and introduced more refined and specialist equipment: it has increasingly become a single point of contact for many of its customers.
Groundforce is more than just a provider of construction equipment, it is a strategic partner in supporting Uisce Éireann’s mission to provide high-quality water and wastewater services.
Get in touch with Groundforce today!
fuel solutions
COMMERCIAL FUEL SOLUTIONS UNVEILS GROUND-LEVEL ADBLUE® FILL SOLUTION FOR EXCAVATORS
Commercial Fuel Solutions
Ltd has launched a pioneering ground-level AdBlue® fill solution, developed to enhance safety and ease of use for heavy machinery operators. The innovative system eliminates the need for operators to climb ladders with 10-litre AdBlue cans to refill up to 70-litre tanks mounted 2.5 metres off the ground, a task that would have to be done weekly.
Instead, it allows AdBlue to be dispensed quickly and safely from ground level using a bowser. Specifically engineered for rugged environments such as quarries and construction sites, the system has already been installed on a range of Volvo excavators, including the EC750, EC380, EC480 and EC400F models, and can also be fitted to the EC500F. It mounts ergonomically onto the excavator, with a compact, vehicle-mounted pump and control panel that draws power from the machine’s own 12-volt electrical supply. A robust dry break interface and external control panel enable operators to refuel without accessing elevated or unstable areas. A built-in on-intrusive level switch provides automatic shut-off to prevent overfilling.
“No more balancing on ladders or hauling heavy cans. This solution puts operator safety first without compromising productivity,” said James Lovelock, Senior Design Engineer at Commercial Fuel Solutions.
“It’s powered directly from the machine, with automatic shutoff to prevent overfill, making it smart, safe, and seamless.”
Matt Jennings, SMT Major Account Manager, commented:
“The safety benefits of a ground level AdBlue fill solution for operatives in the Quarrying and Aggregate sector are a game changer! Thanks to the hard work and perseverance
of the SMT team at the Machine Preparation Centre in Immingham, and Commercial Fuels Systems’ team the industry is a safer place to work.
“This complex project bridged across two generations of Volvo CE excavators providing a solution tailored to each excavator size and available space within the machine’s toolbox compartment. This negates the need to climb on machine track pads and platforms whilst carrying heavy canisters of Diesel Exhaust Fluid. Since release as a third-party option by SMT Great Britain, more
customers have begun adopting this safety-enhancing solution.”
Ian Staples, SMT’s Product Compliance Officer, added:
“In May 2022, Chepstow approached SMT to develop a one-man, ground-level AdBlue fill solution with auto shutoff.
Recognising the complexity of this task, I was confident that Commercial Fuel Solutions would have the right expertise to partner with to deliver a safe and effective solution, supporting a safer way of working for Chepstow’s operators.”
Cath Pickett, Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) Director Chepstow Plant said:
“This simple solution, eliminating foreseeable daily work at height events will make a significant difference to the safety of both Chepstow plant operator and client operators. Our ambition to take the lead on this will see real change filter down to the industry, making refuelling excavators safer for all.”
The ground-level AdBlue® filling system from Commercial Fuel Solutions is now available for deployment across a wide range of excavators and heavy-duty plant vehicles, with retrofit options available for existing fleets.
CREAGH CONCRETE: BUILDING MOMENTUM, EXPANDING HORIZONS, AND SHAPING A 2030 VISION
In recent months, Creagh Concrete has reaffirmed its position as a leading force in UK and Irish construction manufacturing. Through a series of landmark projects, a major production and factory expansion, and a clearly defined 2030 Vision to double turnover, the company is demonstrating strong momentum as it enters the next phase of growth.
RECENT WORK
Creagh Concrete continues to deliver an impressive range of precast and off-site solutions. From residential developments to multi-storey structures, its signature systems — including the Rapidres® off-site cross-wall build system and Spantherm® thermally efficient flooring units — remain in high demand.
Among recent achievements, The Rise in Cardiff stands out as a landmark project. Now the tallest building in the
city, The Rise will provide 272 new homes and reshape Cardiff’s skyline. Creagh’s site team completed the 31-storey precast installation in just 36 weeks, an outstanding demonstration of the speed and efficiency that off-site construction can achieve. Delivering design, manufacture, and installation, Creagh showcased its ability to provide a fully integrated service from concept to completion. Meanwhile, upgrades at Draperstown Quarry have extended its lifespan by ten years underscoring Creagh’s proactive approach to resource management and environmental stewardship.
Financially, the company reported record-breaking results in mid-2025, driven by its ongoing expansion and operational excellence. The recent progress reflects a business that is performing strongly; both commercially
and technically; with innovation embedded in every aspect of its operations.
INNOVATION AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Investment in infrastructure remains central to Creagh’s growth story. At Creagh’s Toomebridge headquarters, a new 4,000 m² factory is under construction — a £3 million investment that forms part of the company’s wider strategy of innovation, sustainability, and facility expansion. Once completed, the factory will produce up to 75,000 m² of precast walls per year, significantly boosting production capacity. Other investment included overhead cranes, new batching plants in key locations, laser projectors for steel cage fabrication, network and power upgrades and even a new sand barge, every enhancement supports faster delivery, greater precision, and improved quality.
Creagh is also embracing Industry 4.0 and Artificial Intelligence as catalysts for the next leap in manufacturing performance.
• Computer vision AI cameras now monitor production lines, enabling real-time quality assurance in precast components.
• AI-powered data analysis provides insights that drive continuous optimisation, improved efficiency, and reduced waste.
These initiatives form part of a broader digital transformation strategy, reinforcing Creagh’s commitment to excellence, precision, and forward-thinking design.
SUSTAINABILITY
By January 2025, all plants in England and Scotland had fully transitioned to certified renewable electricity, with Northern Ireland facilities completing renewable energy transition plans by April 2025. These actions are projected to reduce emissions by 1,084 tonnes of CO2e in 2025, with a further 276 tonnes expected in 2026.
This progress positions Creagh ahead of its 2029 Milestone 2, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable construction manufacturing and commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050.
RECOGNITION
Creagh Concrete was awarded Platinum status in the Deloitte Ireland LLP “Ireland’s Best Managed Companies” programme at ceremony in Dublin. They also scooped 3 awards at the Galliford Try ATA Awards. Creagh won: Overall Subcontractor of the Year, Sustainability Award and the individual award for Challenging Behaviour and Beliefs Award (Martin McIlwraith). This is the first time Galliford Try has presented three awards to a single company, making it an outstanding achievement overall.
THE 2030 VISION
Looking ahead, Creagh’s ambition is clear: To double turnover to £250 million by 2030. This vision is anchored on three core pillars:
1. Innovation & Product Development: Expanding next-generation systems such as Rapidres®, Rapidschool®, and Spantherm®.
2. Capacity & Infrastructure: Scaling production through strategic facility expansion and modernised operations.
3. Market Growth: Serving the UK and Ireland through bases in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England, while broadening into multi-residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. By 2030, Creagh aims not only to grow in scale but also to lead in quality, sustainability, and delivery speed — setting new benchmarks for the precast industry.
CONCLUSION
In an industry where speed, sustainability, and quality increasingly define success, Creagh Concrete stands at the crossroads of all three. Its recent projects showcase real innovation and a commitment to excellence, while continued investment in infrastructure lays a solid foundation for future growth. Looking ahead, the company’s 2030 Vision makes its ambitions clear; to lead the sector into a new era. For anyone following the rise of precast and off-site construction, Creagh Concrete’s story is one of transformation and purpose, a business not simply keeping up with change, but actively shaping the future of how we build.
shannon valley group
WHERE INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP IS ROOTED IN CIRCULAR ECONOMY VALUES SHANNON VALLEY GROUP:
Summarising the magnitude of Shannon Valley Group’s industry success and societal importance is quite the feat. The company’s journey has been one marked by significant milestones, innovative solutions and a strong commitment to creating value for customers – all of which have been fuelled by a passion for making a lasting, positive difference to the environment.
From its family-centric foundations to its rapid, widespread expansion, the company has cemented its reputation as a major dynamic civil engineering company – garnering increased traction both within Ireland and further afield for its extensive management of construction and civil engineering projects. Alongside these operational strides is the company’s remarkable contribution to a more sustainable and
resilient future for all, expressed through its commitment to the circular economy and collaboration with partners, customers and communities to foster awareness and adoption of environmental practices.
BACK TO THE BEGINNING
Originally established in 1991, Shannon Valley Group is a family-operated and owned business, founded by Michael English and currently headed by Michael’s three sons and equal partners: Mick, David and Dermot. The company is based at the Shannon Valley Centre in Donabate, Co. Dublin – built in 2005 – in which the office comprises a four-storey block, bolstering the company’s capability to house all necessary functions of running the business, including a plant maintenance yard and truck parking area. Since its initial cultivation, Shannon Valley Group’s focus has experienced both evolution and variation, adapting to the
complexity of the sector’s needs – rapidly growing and diversifying over the years to become one of Ireland’s largest and most progressive civil engineering companies. A key element of the company’s success has been its reliable provision of professionallyplanned and executed service packages – specialising in groundworks and civil engineering, commercial and housing site developments, controlled demolition, haulage, quarrying, soil stabilisation, and more importantly, a massive focus on on-site recycling and the reuse of materials. Differentiating itself in the sector, the extensive remit of the services delivered by Shannon Valley Group also incorporate less obvious ones, such as enabling works, engineering and temporary works designs, decontamination, slipform kerbing and site surveys, inspections, aerial photography and cinematography with the use of advanced drone technology. “Our mission is to be the leader in the civil engineering sector with the reuse of all materials excavated for further
reuse in its projects,providing a quality, innovative and professional service to all our clients in a timely and safe manner. We strive to deliver projects on time and within budget, while maintaining the highest levels of safety, sustainability and environmental management to minimise waste landfill through re-use and recycling and other recovery methods,” the Shannon Valley Group team explained.
MAKING ITS MARK
Actioning this determination, the range of projects currently conducted by Shannon Valley Group differs both in scope and scale – from multi-million euro developments to smaller and medium-sized contracts spanning the different facets of the industry. The portfolio of work has incorporated the construction of motorways, regional and local roads, tunnel works, such as the Dublin Port Tunnel, coastal and tidal defence structures, hospitals, and water attenuation systems. This has been alongside various groundworks, including deep largediameter drainage, utility installations, site clearance, and development works across commercial, industrial, and residential sectors, as well as landfill facilities, extensive earthworks, rock breaking, and the processing of materials for reuse. The contributions carved out by the company are additionally notable for having a community-centric emphasis at their heart, as evidenced by a number of its latest endeavours.
“There are a couple of high-profile commercial developments completed recently – Amazon’s warehouse at Baldonnell Business Park, Echelon Data Centre at Clondalkin Industrial Estate and Vantage Data Centre at Profile Park. We could also list a few large-scale residential developments, some of them already completed around Adamstown, Lucan area (Tandy’s Lane, St. Helen’s, Adamstown Boulevard) and some of
them still being built in phases for the last three years like Seven Mills – a new town currently being built beside the Grand Canal, between Clondalkin and Lucan in Dublin 22,” they reflected.
AN IMPRESSIVE FLEET
Indicative of the ever-increasing uptake of the company’s services, and projects constructed, it has been essential that Shannon Valley Group is equipped with the necessary resources to efficiently handle every project – subsequently boasting one of the largest construction fleets in Ireland.
“We have over 450 items of the heavy construction plant currently on the plant register, including over 150 excavators from one-to-75 tonnes and over 60 trucks that deliver goods to sites everyday,” they said.
“Our fleet also includes 28 metre long reach excavators, articulated dump trucks from 25 up to 50 tonnes, dozers, site dumpers from six up to 10 tonnes, compactors / rollers from four up to 27 tonnes, crushers, screeners, industrial drill
shannon valley group
rig, loading shovels, agricultural tractors, forklifts, telehandlers, low loader and bulk tanker trailers, grab and flatbed lorries.
“This is in addition to a slipform kerbing machine, CCTV drain survey / inspection vans, high pressure water jet / vac unit, road sweepers and dust suppression units, and a highlyspecialised soil stabilisation machinery.”
CIRCULAR ECONOMY AT ITS CORE
The company’s impact, and indeed the motivations which underscore the team’s work, stretch far beyond the sector – and far beyond the present time-frame. Shannon Valley Group’s focus on sustainable construction practices has been a cornerstone of the company’s undertakings for a long time; in fact, recycling and environmental management has been a key competency of the company since the beginning.
Shannon Valley Group’s commitment to circular economy principles has been embedded in its operations from the outset by prioritising resource efficiency and waste reduction in all aspects of its work. The company implemented sustainable methods of construction even before the publication of Ireland’s Circular Economy Strategy in 2021. For example, it carried out motorway stabilisation projects in Poland between 2009-and-2012, later applying that international experience to its first Irish project to fully embrace the model, Amazon’s warehouse at Baldonnell Business Park in 2020, where soil stabilisation was applied across the development.
shannon valley group
WASTE MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT
Shannon Valley Group’s waste monitoring and management techniques significantly benefit both its project outcomes and the broader goal of resource conservation.
The majority of waste it encounters in its projects is “soil and stone” (European Waste Catalogue code 17 04 05), and this is where the most substantial benefits can be found.
The team said: “This is one of the key ways we differ from other companies. “Muck”, “soil,” or “excavated material” is often viewed as waste – something to discard. We, however, see it as a valuable resource. Reusing soil and stone not only reduces project costs in the groundworks phase, but also limits the need for importing quarried aggregates.
“Building on the circular economy principles we recycle the excavated soil and rock.
Shannon Valley has developed a mobile aggregate recovery system. Excavated material is screened to separate soil for stabilisation and rock, which is then crushed, and graded into aggregates. These products are reused for drainage, backfill, and general construction purposes, directly reducing quarry imports and associated emissions.”
Other eco-conscious endeavours which the company has been endorsing include the repurposing of site-won topsoil, subsoil, and stone into structural soils and landscaping products. Producing them directly on-site reduces transport costs and emissions while
providing greater design flexibility, enabling reinvestment into added-value ingredients. Shedding further light on the different facets of its circular economy-centric endeavours, the Shannon Valley Group team explained: “Our approach extends beyond greenfield sites to include previouslydeveloped brownfield sites. Using our demolition equipment and crushers, we transform demolition materials into recycled aggregates. Our efforts also extend beyond site activity. Shannon Valley makes regular use of Article 27 by-product notifications to reclassify surplus soils for beneficial reuse. We support biodiversity through litter picking, noise control, installing bat boxes and tree barriers, with dust suppression and silt traps to protect air and water quality.”
SOIL STABILISATION IN FOCUS
Playing a crucial role in Shannon Valley Group’s environmental dedication, and testament to the team’s support of sustainable and durable infrastructure, is its soil stabilisation service. As a one-stop shop for soil stabilisation requirements, the team handles the entire process; from project initiation and management, to co-ordinating soil testing beforehand and conducting field testing during operations. Its collaboration with accredited laboratories and geotechnical consultants ensures precision, while through surveying the site, performing health and safety risk assessments, and compiling Construction
Quality Assurance reports, the company’s efforts culminate in a formal project sign-off.
“The principal use of the technique is for stabilising natural subgrades in pavement construction. It provides a much increased subgrade strength, thereby either eliminating the need for subgrade capping and reducing the overall required thickness of aggregate layers for floors and build-up for concrete slabs,” they commented.
Soil stabilisation, Hampden Hill, Donabate
Seven Mills Site-won Structural Soil Production Area.
shannon valley group
“Soft and weak clay soils can also be strengthened or stabilised by the addition of a small percentage of lime (improvement) or with a small quantity of cement if necessary (stabilisation).”
The advantages attained through the process firmly tie in with the company’s circular economy approach.
“By enhancing the engineering properties of soil that may otherwise be unsuitable,
a useable construction material can be produced, thus avoiding the need for its removal (reduced carbon footprint), avoiding the need for imported materials (reduced use of raw materials), and avoiding the cost of disposal at a waste facility (reduced cost of the project),” the team continued.
“We aim to reuse 100 per cent of excavated and demolished materials keeping them in use for as long as possible
in accordance with the government’s strategies and our client’s policies.”
SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION
Translating motivation into action, Shannon Valley Group’s projects are designed in alignment with the company’s sustainability principles, promoting eco-conscious growth and development – exemplified by their major Carin Homes’ Seven Mills project.
Seven Mills, Clonburris.
Hampden Hill, Donabate.
shannon valley group
The team reflected: “It’s one of the most exciting new developments in Dublin and already well underway with the first residents moved in by November 2023. Once it’s complete, it will be around the size of Maynooth, with over 5,500 homes, and a population of 15,000. That’s where the company’s most significant embrace of circular economy principles is integrated in groundworks carried out. By maximising the value of topsoil, subsoil, and rock, each a by-product of essential excavation, we ensure that these materials are recovered and repurposed rather than treated as waste.”
As for how the initiatives are successfully achieving eco-conscious outcomes, the Seven Mills, Clonburris housing development on-site recovery will produce over 180,000 tonnes of aggregate. Elsewhere, the Hampden Hill, Donabate housing development has stabilised 250,000 m³ to date, and for the Vantage Data Centre, Profile Park, on-site stabilisation combined with HVO fuel saved 2,390 tonnes of CO2 during construction.
FINANCIAL AND TIMESCALE EFFICIENCY
As repeatedly demonstrated, the strategies in question positively impact project costs and timeline efficiencies for Shannon Valley Group’s clients. The upfront financial benefits are clear in that soil treatment on-site and the recovery process can eliminate or reduce the need for importing aggregates, thereby saving on material costs and transportation. This can be significant, especially when scaled up to the size of a full project.
The timeline acceleration is also notable: “Any time saved in construction equates to cost savings. By stabilising existing soil on-site, contractors are avoiding the lead times associated with sourcing and transporting aggregates. Plus, they’re mitigating the downtime that often occurs due to adverse ground conditions, which can lead to delays and, subsequently, increased costs. Stabilisation works will mitigate some of the risks associated with saturated materials in excavations or stockpiles
and allow quicker recovery times after periods of inclement weather,” they said.
THE FUTURE IS GREEN
Although Shannon Valley Group has been expertly harnessing its sustainability strategies and processes in-house – with geotechnical experts helping to drive the work – the ethos behind the company means that it is enthusiastic about sharing its circular economy-centric approach for further societal and industry uptake. In fact, its commitment extends well beyond individual projects, with a growing research and development team now in place and focused on sustainability challenges, from low-carbon binders to carbon sequestration trials in construction materials. This is supported by a new in-house laboratory, where testing is carried out, with staff development playing a central role in its work.
“Being a member of the Supply Chain Sustainability School aids upskilling, which is complemented by regular toolbox talks on circular economy practices, ensuring that
sustainability is integrated at every level. When it comes to the wider construction industry, what better way to promote circular economy principles than through collaboration with leading industry magazine? We are grateful to the Plant & Civil Engineer team for the opportunity to share Shannon Valley’s profile with a broad audience,” they explained.
With this commitment to continual improvement, the road ahead for Shannon Valley Group’s advancement of sustainable practices on a broader scale is not only exciting, but crucial. However, that doesn’t mean that this path isn’t paved with challenges. This is particularly the case when it comes to the company marrying its commitment to sustainable construction methods of the highest of standards, with its simultaneous maintenance of the company’s growth.
“It’s not always easy, especially when it comes to challenges we face to fulfil this commitment: contradictions and confusion between national, regional, and local legislation, especially in the context of
managing C&D waste in a legally-compliant way and demonstrating fitness for purpose in recycled material application.
“I guess overcoming those challenges, completing projects in the sustainable way and still being compliant with the regulations is the biggest highlight in the transition process. For example, in 2022, Shannon Valley secured Environmental Protection Agency’s single-case Decision for Article 28 End-ofWaste criteria for recycled aggregates, a full year ahead of its nationwide roll-out in 2023.”
shannon valley group
RECOGNITION OF ACHIEVEMENTS
By implementing its innovative green practices, Shannon Valley Group has –unsurprisingly – not only reaped results for its clients and the environment, but garnered numerous awards for its commitment to sustainability. The team’s dedication to eco-friendly operations has set a benchmark within the industry, proving that business growth and environmental stewardship can effectively coincide.
Reflecting on its wide industry recognition, the team said: “With almost 35 years in business, we have earned numerous awards and accolades. Most recently, we won the Modern Methods of Construction Award in 2024 and the Irish Construction Excellence Award in 2025.
“Recognition from the industry reassures us that we are moving in the right direction and motivates us to continue improving. It also brings a sense of pride to the entire team.”
MOYGLARE SAND AND GRAVEL – SUPPLYING QUALITY, SUPPORTING GROWTH
Founded in the heart of County Kildare, Moyglare Sand and Gravel has grown from a small, family-run operation into one of the region’s most reliable suppliers of construction materials.
From its earliest days, the focus has always been on quality, consistency, and customer service. Over the years, it has continually invested in its equipment, fleet, and processes, ensuring it meets the ever-evolving needs of the Irish construction sector. This dedication to improvement and reliability has underpinned its continued success and solidified its reputation across the industry.
At Moyglare, the team specialises in the production and supply of a range of highquality aggregates, including washed sand, gravel, crushed certified stone, and decorative stone. Its materials are used across a wide spectrum of building projects – from major infrastructure works to residential and
commercial developments. Its customers value not only the quality of its products but also its ability to deliver on-time and to spec, even under tight deadlines.
Moyglare Sand and Gravel’s relationship with Shannon Valley Group is one it is particularly proud of. It began just under 20 years ago and has developed into a strong, collaborative partnership. Shannon Valley demands the highest standards in its operations, and Moyglare Sand and Gravel is proud to support them by supplying consistent, high-grade materials for a number of their key projects. Whether it’s aggregate for large-scale civil works or timely deliveries to active sites, the company works closely with their team to ensure smooth, efficient supply at every stage.
As the industry continues to grow and evolve, so too does Moyglare Sand and Gravel.
With trusted partners like Shannon Valley, Moyglare Sand and Gravel looks forward to continuing to play its part in building Ireland’s future – one load at a time.
HARTONS HAS A STRONG HERITAGE OF QUALITY AND EXCELLENCE IN AGGREGATE SUPPLY
With a legacy comprising over 100 years in the industry, Hartons continues to go from strength-tostrength as an industry ally and trusted supplier, specialising in the provision of high-quality sand, gravel and rock to the local area. The company has been in the sand and gravel industry in the north midlands since 1932, with records even further back with dockets for donkey and horse loads of sand from 1896 in Cavan by Patrick Harton. His son, Bernard, established it into a company, and along with his sons, Padraig, Bernard and Hubert, grew the business and opened other locations at the time. The five-generation business is now run by Padraig’s son, Brian, and assisted by his son, Sean. Hartons supplies washed and graded aggregates and sands, along with
crushed rock materials, to the north midlands and beyond to cater to a broad array of its clients’ projects and needs. Prioritising its customers’ needs, and testament to the company’s recognition for reliable service and quality materials, Hartons has flexible options in place, in which they can be provided in bulk or bagged to meet the specific requirements of its clients.
One of the company’s key collaborators has been Shannon Valley Group. Hartons has been working in tandem with them to help get a consistent source of aggregates for their ever-growing portfolio of sites. The relationship was initially established after Hartons became involved in supplying aggregates through a mutual friend which has helped both businesses to prosper.
TEL: 014531046
Experts in Pipeline solutions
Pipeline solutions, designed for reliability, efficiency, and safety.
Scan the QR code to see our full range.
McCAULEY TRAILERS CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF INNOVATION, CRAFTSMANSHIP AND COMMUNITY
This September, McCauley Trailers marked a milestone that very few family-founded businesses ever reach – 70 years in operation. Since its beginnings in 1955, it has grown from a small workshop into one of the most trusted names in trailer manufacturing, serving industries across the UK, Ireland and far beyond. To celebrate this achievement, the company dedicated two special days –18th and 19th September – to honour its past, thank those who’ve supported the team, and open the doors to its future.
AN EVENING OF APPRECIATION - 18th SEPTEMBER
McCauley Trailers’ anniversary celebrations began with a dinner at The Elk, Toomebridge, where the company welcomed its top suppliers and customers, as well as the McCauley staff. These are the people and businesses who have stood beside McCauley
Trailers over the years, helping it deliver quality and innovation time after time.
The evening was filled with companionship and trust. Guests enjoyed a wonderful meal, listened to speeches that reflected on the company’s journey, and of course, took to the dance floor. More than just a party, it was a night of gratitude – recognising the partnerships that have shaped who it is today.
OPENING ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC - 19th SEPTEMBER
The following day marked a historic first for McCauley Trailers: the company opened its doors to the public.
Visitors were invited to explore its factory through guided tours, offering a rare behindthe-scenes look at how its trailers are built – from design and engineering right through to the finished product. The team hosted Q&A sessions throughout the day, giving people the chance to learn more about the
craftsmanship, technology, and dedication that goes into every McCauley trailer.
It was also the perfect opportunity to unveil its new factory facilities and share its future plans. From expanded production capabilities to new product developments, McCauley Trailers is looking ahead with ambition and excitement for the decades to come.
The turnout was overwhelming – with families, customers, suppliers, and community members all walking through its doors. For many, it was their first time seeing the scale of its operation, and the company was humbled by the interest, support, and encouragement it received.
70 YEARS AND BEYOND
While the team is proud of its history, this anniversary wasn’t just about looking back. It was also about celebrating where it’s going. With its new factory, expanded capabilities, and exciting future projects, McCauley Trailers is ready for the next chapter.
Members of McCauley’s Finish and Parts Team celebrating the company’s Open Day.
VIVID SECURES ZOOMLION CONSTRUCTION AND AGRICULTURAL FOR THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND AND ALL OF IRELAND
Zoomlion’s Product Range Includes Excavators, Tractors, Skid Steers, Cranes, Telehandlers and Quarrying Equipment
Rob Macnaughton and industry partners, Michael Craig and Dave Dawe, are proud to announce that Vivid Machinery has secured the Zoomlion agency for Ireland and the UK.
As one of the global leaders in construction machinery manufacturing, Zoomlion’s product lines span earthmoving, cranes, hoisting and concrete equipment, agricultural machinery, industrial vehicles, and specialised equipment for infrastructure and mining.
This exciting milestone marks a significant expansion for Vivid and Zoomlion’s partnership – strengthening its role as the leading supplier of construction, agricultural, and industrial machinery across both markets.
Renowned throughout the industry, the Macnaughton family boast a wealth of experience working with major brands like Caterpillar and SANY, and therefore are perfectly positioned in this new role – understanding the importance
of after-sales support for customers, in addition to owning and operating costs.
A ROBUST SUPPORT STRUCTURE
The partnership with Zoomlion brings not only an expanded portfolio of equipment, but also a robust support structure for customers:
• Manchester Distribution Centre – the Zoomlion dedicated hub for supplying parts, aftersales support, and equipment to dealers across the UK and Ireland
• Berkshire Centre of Excellence, West London – the new UK head office will feature a demonstration area to allow customers to come and test machines. Vivid will also be working with Zoomlion for the launch and introduction of the agricultural range of equipment. Field follow units have already been shipped to the UK to allow trials against competitive equipment to be conducted later in the year
• Sub-dealers network – the appointment of sub-dealers across Ireland and the UK is imminent, creating a wider reach for sales, service, and localised customer care
AN EXTENSIVE LINE-UP
This partnership gives customers direct access to a comprehensive range of high-quality equipment designed to meet the demands of modern industry. The Zoomlion portfolio covers everything from construction machinery to cranes, hoisting and concrete equipment, offering reliable solutions for large and small projects alike. Beyond construction, the range also includes advanced agricultural machinery, robust industrial vehicles, and specialist equipment developed for infrastructure and mining applications. By bringing this global expertise to the local market, Vivid Machinery can support businesses across multiple sectors with machinery that is built for performance, efficiency and long-term value.
By representing Zoomlion, Vivid now offers one of the broadest product line-ups in the market, including:
• Earthmoving machinery for excavation and site development
• Mobile cranes for lifting and heavy-duty projects
• Foundation and mining machinery for infrastructure and extraction projects
• Agricultural machinery and industrial vehicles and emergency response equipment
This wide-ranging portfolio positions Vivid as a one-stop partner for contractors,
developers, farmers, and industrial operators throughout Ireland and the UK
SHOWCASING AT AGRITECHNICA 2025 AND ICE EXPO 2026
Zoomlion will be exhibiting at AGRITECHNICA 2025, the world’s leading trade fair for agricultural machinery, taking place from 9th – 15th November 2025 in Hanover, Germany. Building on this momentum, Vivid Zoomlion will showcase the strength of their partnership at ICE Expo 2026, with a major presence featuring a full line-up of Zoomlion machinery, live demonstrations, and technical showcases for the European market.
Vivid, led by Rob Macnaughton, Michael Craig and Dave Dawe, have achieved the Zoomlion milestone.
excavators
SUCCESSFUL INDUSTRY DEMO FOR NEW DEVELON SERIES 9 EXCAVATOR
Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has announced that it has conducted a successful field demonstration of the company‘s new DX230LC-9 23 tonne crawler excavator and its smart safety technologies, including the groundbreaking E-STOP system, at a test site in Compiègne in France.
The demonstration was organised by OPPBTP (Organisme Professionnel de Prévention du Bâtiment et des Travaux Publics) (the French professional organisation for improving health and safety in Building and Public Works) and took place at the construction site of the Seine–Nord Europe Canal project, operated by Bouygues, a leading global construction company. The OPPBTP is made up of health and safety experts from the industry, who provide daily support to professionals and stakeholders in the construction industry. Its aim is to develop practices to prevent workplace accidents and occupational illnesses to improve the health and safety of workers in the construction industry.
Stephane Dieu, Product Manager for Develon Excavators in Europe, said: “It was a great pleasure to accept OPPBTP‘s invitation, giving us the opportunity to demonstrate our innovative technology for reducing accident risks on earthmoving sites. Many thanks to Sébastien MARIE from OPPBTP and also to Société du Canal Seine-Nord Europe for allowing this innovation to be tested on the Canal Seine Nord construction site and Bouygues Travaux Publics for conducting the tests and for their positive feedback on the E-Stop system.”
As well as Bouygues, the demonstration event was also attended by representatives from four other major international construction firms – including Eiffage – as well as government representatives, the Chairman of the Board of the Seine Nord Europe Canal Company and the Safety Director of Fédération Nationale des Travaux Publics, the French national federation representing the public works and construction industry.
E-STOP, THE FIRST SAFETY SYSTEM OF ITS KIND AS STANDARD ON AN EXCAVATOR
Develon’s equipment was deployed to showcase both its core performance and advanced smart safety functions, including E-Stop, the first system from a crawler excavator manufacturer that stops the movement of the machine when a person is detected within 4 m of the excavator.
Stephane Dieu continued: “The new Develon DX230LC-9 excavator used in the demonstration was equipped with a range of smart safety technologies such as collision risk warnings and around-view monitoring. Among them, the E-STOP system – similar to automotive emergency braking systems – garnered particular attention from operators and demonstration attendees.
“Develon plans to further develop the E-Stop system and begin launch in the European market with it installed from January of next year.”
The OPPBTP was established in 1947 to address high accident rates in the construction sector. Since 2022, it has been operating the joint industry project ‘Stop Collision’ aimed at preventing accidents between equipment and pedestrians. The recent field demonstration and showcase with Develon was conducted as part of this project.
STAR OF THE BAUMA 2025 EXHIBITION
Presented for the first time at Bauma 2025, Develon’s new Next Generation Series 9 Smart Crawler Excavator range represents the latest stage in a proud legacy at Develon that can be traced back through five generations of excavators that began with the Solar range in the 1980s. With the Series 9 range, Develon is aiming to set a new standard for future products and technologies in construction equipment. Like all Series 9 models, the DX230LC-9 achieves this goal by combining 10 groundbreaking technologies and will redefine and set new industry levels of productivity, safety, operator convenience and sustainability. The Series 9 range not only endorses the company’s forward-thinking vision, but also underscores Develon’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence in the construction equipment sector.
SAFETY AND SMART FEATURES ON SERIES 9 MACHINES
The Smart All-Around Viewing Monitor (SAVM) is an AI-based Object Detection technology 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. The innovative E-Stop and Virtual Wall functions prevent accidents the operators are not aware of. To help ensure safety, the area surrounding the machine is clearly defined into specific zones: a yellow warning zone (Zone 2) and a red danger zone (Zone 1).
The SAVM and E-Stop system utilise six cameras and three radars and work in three stages with a detection range of 6 m and 330°. The system is active only for personnel, and is able to make out the difference between people and objects:
• Visual personnel detection by the HD cameras
• Warning and slowing down the speed from 6 m
• Stopping the machine from 4 m (swing and reverse)
The E-Stop is an essential safety feature designed to control or halt a machine‘s movement, such as driving or swinging, in cautionary or dangerous areas, thereby ensuring operator safety. The Virtual Wall feature significantly enhances operation by allowing users to confine the machine‘s movement within predefined areas where the risk of collision may be heightened.
DX230LC-9.
Past President Karen McShane
LEVEL UP: THE IMPACT OF PUBLIC REALM ENHANCEMENT
The Levelling up Fund was much talked about over the last few years, but have we seen the impact of what this fund has delivered? One place that secured a £9 million capital grant for regeneration was the town of Maghera covering a new public realm scheme, a new business park and a wetlands park, with walking trails, nature interaction points, viewing platforms and play areas.
On a recent visit to Maghera, I saw firsthand part of the public realm improvements which have significantly enhanced the high street, attracting visitors, new businesses and improving footfall. There was the added advantage of social and health benefits, with more walking routes, meeting places, safer and more accessible public space, taking on-board the principles set out in CIHT’s Creating a Public Realm For All strategy.
Maghera ranks in the lower third of the Northern Ireland key deprivation indicators and this regeneration is part of addressing the long-standing socio-economic issues that the town has faced. The spin-off has already seen the Council start to develop new commercial land, having previously identified a shortfall in supply.
A STRATEGIC APPROACH
I met the CivCo team and while walking the works it was clear that Maghera is a vital commuter link in Mid Ulster and a key route to the North Coast and Belfast via the M2. As such, this required significant traffic management interventions during the public realm revitalisation scheme. CivCo, in collaboration with DfI Roads, undertook a careful, strategic approach to minimise disruption in this busy area. A phased construction strategy, combined with scheduled road closures, diversions and night-time works, helped mitigate the impact on businesses and schools.
Early co-ordination between CivCo and utility providers enabled integration of essential upgrades, such as sewer improvements, into the overall project. The design process also accounted for historical features and buried services, helping to avoid outages or delays.
From the outset, the needs of end-users were central, with stakeholder engagement, in particular from Community & Disability Groups, helping to embed accessibility and the end-user into every aspect of the design. High-quality features, such as granite paving, modern street furniture and improved lighting and pavement design, contributed to a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for residents, schoolchildren and visitors.
The scheme had careful material selections, ensuring easy buildability and a high-quality finish. CivCo’s experienced Project Team focused on detail, using durable, context-
sensitive materials, such as granite paving, to deliver a consistent standard that complimented the character of Maghera town centre, while meeting practical needs. This did generate a debate with Gordon Best from the Mineral Products Association on the potential use of reconstituted granite and we both have yet to see a scheme using this local product, rather than imported natural stone. Although there were minimal opportunities, CivCo took those that were available to plant new trees along the street scape and to create new bespoke street furniture in seating areas. This project was completed mid-May 2025, on time, within budget, and to a high standard, leaving a lasting positive legacy in Maghera’s revitalised town centre.
As part of my visit I also saw some of the enhancements to the landscaping and connectivity to the St Lurach’s Old Church
All views expressed are personal views of Karen McShane and not necessarily those of any organisation in which she is involved
The CIHT Team picking up the Education Award at Memcom.
Walled Garden and the Largantogher Walkway. The benefits of the Levelling up funding have already started to see enhancements to the town, creating places, rather than just roads and footways. It may not be the most exciting project, but it demonstrates that enhancements to our public realm can lead to upgraded utilities, creation of places and investment by others into the area. As I write DFI have already planned to carry out the road resurfacing throughout the town centre to enhance the final appearance of the public realm scheme.
RECOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE
Elsewhere at CIHT, I can report that CIHT’s Education Initiative has been recognised at the Memcom Excellence Awards in London for its initiative focusing on delivering meaningful learning and innovative approaches to support transport and
infrastructure professionals in designing accessible and equitable public spaces and transport systems. CIHT Learn plays a vital part in this learning initiative and if you have not logged on there are a wealth of courses that you can undertake to achieve your CPD. CIHT members can avail of many courses for no fee but they are open to others as well. Our courses are delivered in collaboration with organisations representing blind, partiallysighted, and dementia-affected communities, combining bite-size learning real-world case studies. This equips professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to create transport networks that serve everyone.
On a personal note, I was also extremely honoured to have made the shortlist for President of the Year at Memcom and was the only infrastructure president to make the list. Sadly, I was pipped for the
top prize by Phil Roe, the President of Logistics UK who was a very deserved winner for his role in making opportunities available to young people and driving the new strategic vision for Logistics UK.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
CIHT NI has re-elected Stephen Bradshaw as Northern Ireland chair for the incoming session and he has published his programme for the following term. Of note has been a joint meeting with ICE on the Belfast Transport Hub on 13th October, as well as an upcoming prestigious lecture by Sir Chris Witty on 6th November, followed by a presentation on the works completed at Belfast International Airport on 17th November. Full details and booking forms can be found by searching ‘CIHT Northern Ireland’ in most search engines. We would look forward to welcoming you to these events.
Karen’s recent Maghera visit.
hydraulics solutions
KEEPING CONSTRUCTION SITES MOVING: HOW HYDROSCAND DELIVERS UNDER PRESSURE
Every construction site runs on momentum. Tight deadlines, demanding workloads, and machinery under constant pressure leave little room for error. But it only takes one failed hose to bring a critical machine to a halt, and with it, the entire site can grind to a standstill. For contractors and plant managers, downtime isn’t just inconvenient. It’s costly, disruptive, and frustrating. That’s where Hydroscand comes in. Their mission is simple: you keep the site running, they keep your equipment delivering under pressure.
SERVICE BUILT FOR CONSTRUCTION
Excavators, cranes, dump trucks, telehandlers – every machine on-site depends on hydraulics to perform safely
and efficiently. When a hose fails, you don’t have hours to wait. You need a fix that’s fast, reliable, and right there on-site. Hydroscand has built its services around the urgency construction demands. With a nationwide network of service branches, a fleet of mobile hose repair vans, and a team of expert engineers, they deliver the support you need, exactly when and where you need it. Their promise is simple: On-Site. On Time.
MOBILE HOSE REPAIR THAT KEEPS YOU MOVING
When a breakdown happens in the middle of a job, moving equipment off-site isn’t practical. That’s why Hydroscand operates fully-equipped HoseExpress
vans across the UK, staffed by skilled hose technicians. They come to you, diagnose the problem, and carry out on-thespot repairs or replacements. The goal is always the same: minimise downtime, maximise productivity, and keep your site moving. Whether it’s planned maintenance or an urgent callout, their mobile service provides peace of mind for busy sites.
MORE THAN A SUPPLIER
Fast response is critical, but Hydroscand offer more than just speed. With decades of experience in hydraulic and fluid transfer solutions, they bring technical expertise to every job. Their engineers understand the demands placed on construction machinery and can advise on hose management, preventative
maintenance, and product selection for maximum durability. That expertise means they’re not just supplying hoses. They’re helping you avoid costly breakdowns, reduce unplanned downtime, and extend the life of your equipment.
LOCAL SUPPORT WITH NATIONAL REACH
Hydroscand combines local service with national strength. Their branches are strategically placed so you’re never far from a trusted partner, while their mobile teams ensure help is always within reach. For plant hire companies, contractors, and operators alike, that flexibility makes a real difference.
Wherever your project is, Hydroscand is on hand to support you.
KEEPING SITES DELIVERING UNDER PRESSURE
For the construction industry, time really is money. The pressure to deliver projects on schedule and on budget has never been higher. Equipment downtime isn’t an option and with Hydroscand at your side, it doesn’t have to be. From emergency mobile repairs to proactive hose management and expert advice, their focus is simple: keeping your machines working and your site moving. When reliability matters most, Hydroscand delivers under pressure.
ABOUT HYDROSCAND
Experts in hydraulic and industrial hose solutions for every industry, the Hydroscand Group is a leading provider with a strong local presence supported by global expertise. Operating as a family business since 1969, they have grown to serve customers across 20-plus countries, offering tailored services to meet the unique needs of industries worldwide.
With a dedicated team of over 1,600 employees across the globe, they are committed to delivering quality products and outstanding customer service. Their strategically-located
branches and HoseExpress mobile service units provide quick, convenient access to a complete range of products and services, maximising productivity and minimising downtime.
Whether it’s custom hose assemblies, preventative maintenance, or repair, Hydroscand is your trusted partner for reliable and effective solutions.
CONSTRUCTION TEAMS CHOOSE HYDROSCAND
RAPID REPAIRS
Book our 24/7 HoseExpress vans, we come to you.
HEAVY-DUTY HOSES & FITTINGS
Built for tough construction environments.
ON-SITE SUPPORT
Mobile workshops and branch network at your service.
LESS DOWNTIME MORE PRODUCTIVITY
Keep every project moving.
SPEAK WITH AN EXPERT
ECON ENGINEERING TAKES
DELIVERY OF ITS 1,000th MERCEDES-BENZ AROCS GRITTER
Mercedes-Benz Trucks and longterm partner Econ Engineering have celebrated a major milestone with the handover of the 1,000th MercedesBenz Arocs gritter, reinforcing a partnership that has helped keep roads safe through more than two decades of harsh winters.
The landmark vehicle – a striking Arocs in a celebratory blue livery – was supplied by Mercedes-Benz Trucks dealer Northside Truck & Van in Leeds. It features the latest Spargo gritter body, developed by Econ Engineering, and joins the company’s hire fleet of more than 1,000 winter maintenance vehicles.
Econ Engineering, the UK’s largest manufacturer of gritters and specialist winter maintenance equipment, has been working with Mercedes-Benz Trucks for more than 22 years. Together, they’ve built the country’s largest own-brand hire fleet – a fleet that covered more than 247,800 miles of gritter routes last year alone, ensuring communities could keep moving safely when conditions were at their toughest.
Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director at Econ Engineering, said: “Reaching our 1,000th Mercedes-Benz hire gritter is a proud moment for everyone at Econ. It’s a testament to the strength of our partnership with Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Northside Truck & Van. Mercedes-Benz trucks deliver the reliability, flexibility and aftersales support that our customers demand from vehicles that have to perform in the toughest of conditions.
“Our hire customers rely on the quality and condition of our fleet, and this latest milestone underlines our continued investment in innovation and performance. We’re proud to keep pushing boundaries to help keep Britain’s roads safe every winter.”
At the heart of Econ’s success is the Mercedes-Benz Arocs, a truck engineered to take on the harshest environments. With high ground clearance, all-wheel drive chassis from 4x4 to 8x8, and the latest OM 471 engine paired with PowerShift Advanced transmission control, the Arocs delivers unrivalled traction, precision and dependability. Drivers also benefit from the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2 that features a 12-inch instrument display, touchscreen controls, voice activation and advanced safety systems –combining comfort with capability.
“Econ are a company that exemplifies excellence in engineering and innovation. A commitment to quality and a forwardthinking approach has consistently set them apart in the industry,” said Heiko Selzam, Managing Director of Daimler Truck UK.
“Reaching the milestone of 1,000 chassis supplied is not only a significant achievement but also a reflection of the strong and collaborative relationship we’ve built over the last 22-plus years and I am looking forward to continuing this valued partnership and supporting Econ with many more chassis in the years ahead. These vehicles are built to perform in the harshest
conditions and play a vital role in keeping Britain’s roads open, safe, and connected.”
Martin Tordoff, Truck Sales Executive, Northside Truck & Van, commented: “At Northside, we are extremely proud to be one of Econ’s suppliers. Our long-standing relationship has been built on excellent aftersales support – not only from us but also through the wider Daimler Truck network. It has been a real pleasure working with Jonathan and his colleagues, and reaching the historic milestone of 1,000 chassis supplied is a testament to the strength of our partnership. We look forward to supplying more chassis in the future, and to continuing this great relationship for many years to come.”
Econ Engineering’s fleet, supported by Mercedes-Benz Trucks – spearheaded by Municipal and Special Applications Key Account Manager, Bob Holt – and its dealer partners, like Northside Truck & Van, stands ready to respond whenever the weather takes a turn. Whether tackling snow, ice or treacherous winter storms, these Arocs gritters ensure that businesses, emergency services, and communities can keep moving. As the 1,000th Arocs joins the fleet, it’s more than just a number: it represents a proven partnership, a shared commitment to innovation, and a dedication to keeping Britain safe on the roads, no matter what the winter brings.
L-R: Heiko Selzam, Managing Director of Daimler Truck UK, and Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director of Econ Engineering.
Access to the Recently-Published NSAI Modern Methods of Construction Certification ‘Toolkit’ is Released
Skillnet MMC Accelerate, the national initiative from Skillnet Ireland in partnership with the Construction IT Alliance (CitA), has announced that access to the new National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) MMC Toolkit is available through its online platform, skillnetmmcaccelerate.ie.
The Skillnet MMC Accelerate platform provides construction companies with education and upskilling resources in Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), to support the accelerated adoption of MMC in Ireland.
Dr Alan Hore, Co-Founder & Director of CitA, and Programme Lead of Skillnet MMC Accelerate, said: “We are pleased to be able to promote the NSAI MMC Toolkit on the Skillnet MMC Accelerate platform. The NSAI MMC Toolkit offers a comprehensive, accessible review of the Agrément certification process that helps MMC innovators bring products to market with confidence, ensuring compliance and building trust across the construction sector.”
Eoin McDonnell, Head of Strategic Programmes, Skillnet Ireland, also commented: “Modern methods of construction are critical to the future of
Ireland’s construction sector – enabling faster delivery, higher quality, and more sustainable building. Skillnet MMC Accelerate supports this transition by opening up access to training and upskilling, while also providing essential industry resources, such as the NSAI MMC Toolkit. The toolkit, in particular, is a practical guide for companies adopting MMC, helping them embed best practice and meet standards with confidence.”
The NSAI MMC Toolkit aims to help Irish small and medium enterprises prepare for the MMC Agrément certification process. The Agrément certification process is designed specifically for new building materials, products and processes that do not yet have a long history of use, and for which published national standards do not yet exist.
The NSAI MMC Toolkit offers a range of critical resources, including details about certification; FAQs on documentation, timelines and costs; Agrément application forms; and information about industry organisations. The toolkit also includes a self-assessment questionnaire to help firms determine if they are ready to apply for NSAI certification. NSAI’s dedicated Modern Methods of Construction department developed the MMC
Toolkit with the support of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. It was developed in conjunction with the policies and documents published by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform. It is aligned to the aims of Ireland’s Housing for All plan to deliver an annual target of 50,500 homes.
Dr Alan Hore.
CASE SPECIAL APPLICATIONS PUTS FIRST ULTRA-COMPACT HIGH-REACH DEMOLITION EXCAVATOR TO WORK IN LYON
Having created huge excitement at the Bauma exhibition in April, the CASE Special Applications Division has delivered a CX135E XRD highreach excavator to a job site in Lyon. Operated by demolition specialist, Franck Gojon, and his son, Kevin, from French contractor, SJTP, the project calls for the deconstruction of an 11m high building within a restricted site, to enlarge a neighbouring school.
“At CASE we’re committed to delivering realworld solutions, that enable our customers to overcome complex challenges,” said Alain De Nanteuil, Head of Commercial Development for CASE Special Applications.
“As greenfield sites disappear, urban renewal and strict environmental regulation are driving the need to demolish existing structures and to recycle materials. This is fuelling demand for increasingly agile demolition machinery,
tailored to confined, complex job sites, where power and precision are critical.”
HIGH-REACH REDEFINED
Created with input from experienced customers, the CX135E XRD leverages many years of CASE expertise with midsize excavators. It takes advantage of advances in hydraulic, architecture and
operator interface technologies, boasting an expandable undercarriage that can pass through a 2.4m gate. The machine has a compact transport width of just 2.32m, expanding to 2.92m for complete stability.
At 13m maximum height, the CX135E XRD is a true high-reach excavator, yet it accesses confined spaces normally only available to a 10-tonne machine.
“What I like about the machine is that even though it is extremely compact, it has lots of power, which is very important with urban tasks like this,” said Kevin Gojon, Owner of SJTP.
“On this project, the additional reach of the machine also makes it possible to load debris into skips. Not having to keep moving the machine to do this makes the whole process a lot easier and faster. It also means that we can limit the number of machines on site, reducing the risk of collisions.”
demolition excavator
QUICK SPECIFICATIONS
Operating weight: 14.5-tonnes
Max power: 55kW (73hp)
Operating width: 2.32-2.92m
Maximum working height: 13m
Cab tilt angle: 30°
Lifting capacity at max height: 3.5-tonnes in front position with blade down
Recommended attachments: up to 600kg crusher or sorting grab
UNPARALLELED VISIBILITY
The CX135E XRD has a hydraulically tiltable cab and a panoramic top window, providing operators with incredible visibility and control. Every detail has been engineered to deliver an unobstructed view of the work site, even in demanding conditions. Two integrated cameras, on the boom and the arm, stream real-time visuals to a dedicated 10.4” display, ensuring precise operation, enhanced safety and total confidence for the operator.
“The screen in the cab allows me to position the machine in the right place to do the work. This is especially important on this job, as we have to carefully remove the roof and walls which back onto neighbouring properties. The cameras allow you to see even when something is hidden, or you lose direct visibility,” said Mr Gojon.
“The low centre of gravity delivers exceptional stability across the entire working range,” said Mr Gojon. “The cab is protected by three demolition guards and armoured glass.”
The CX135E XRD also benefits from an integrated overload sensing alarm, for maximum safety in operation.
A SMARTER WAY TO WORK
As with all CASE E-Series machines, the CX135E XRD cab has a premium seat, intuitive controls and a 7” colour touchscreen display.
A state-of-the-art Bosch Rexroth electronic Open Centre (eOC) hydraulic system allows operators to fine-tune and store hydraulic settings, including for multiple attachments.
“For a compact machine, the cab is quite spacious. The joystick controls are easy to use and with the fingertip-controlled tilting cab you can position yourself with a good view of the work to be carried out,” said Mr Gojon.
“Machine controllability has exceeded my expectations for this size of machine. It’s just smooth and accurate.”
“I find that it doesn’t take long to get used to operating the machine and the controls are very responsive,” said his son, Kevin. Features like an electric refuelling pump, auto-stop function and powerful LED work lights are standard.
CASE SPECIAL APPLICATIONS
The CASE Special Applications Division delivers a wide range of specialist solutions like the CX135E XRD that work for customers, allowing them to operate more efficiently, safely and flexibly.
“More CASE Special Applications models will be launched soon, to address the needs of professionals in a range of applications, such as low ground pressure, long reach and tilt/rotate. We also offer tailored projects for our customers,” said Mr De Nanteuil.
“With this division, combined with advanced technology and ergonomic design, CASE is shaping the next era of construction.”
The CASE CX135E XRD redefines high-reach working in a compact footprint for the specialist demolition industry.
SIMPLICITY GROUP OFFICIALLY OFFERING ‘COLLISION INSIGHTS’ FOR IRISH FLEET ACCIDENT CLAIMS
Simplicity Group have announced the addition of Collision Insights to their product offering. A new feature within the MANTIS RECON platform – the tool is designed to help fleets address a common problem: why camera investments often fail to reduce insurance premiums. By providing structured data and reports, Collision Insights supports faster accident claims processing and helps improve the loss ratio, the key measure insurers use when setting premiums.
Fleet operators have invested in camera systems for years, often with limited impact on insurance costs. The main issue is not always the technology
but how it is used. To achieve lower premiums, fleets must focus on improving the loss ratio, which is calculated as the total cost of claims divided by the total premium paid. A ratio below 40 per cent can lead to lower premiums, while a ratio above 50 per cent often results in higher costs.
Collision Insights is designed to help reduce this ratio by positioning cameras as an operational tool. The system delivers a first notification of loss
(FNOL) collision reconstruction report by combining data from telematics, GPS, G-force sensors, and camera systems. This produces a detailed reconstruction of incidents within moments that can be shared with insurers to provide clarity and speed up claims.
Collision Insights supports lower claims costs in three main ways:
Dispute Non-Fault and Fraudulent Claims: video evidence can disprove false claims and prevent
them from affecting the loss ratio, leading to a 25 per cent increase in the rate of successful disputes
Speed Up Claims Resolution: access to footage allows insurers to establish liability quickly. This reduces delays and associated costs. Customers using the system have seen a 25 per cent drop in average claim length and a 53 per cent drop in investigation costs
Reduce Own-Fault Collisions: Data can be used to identify high-risk driver behaviour, supporting driver training and reducing incidents
AVAILABILITY
Collision Insights is included with the MANTIS Pro plan and with all Multi-Cam packages. It is available exclusively through Simplicity Group across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
AMEY LAUNCHES NATURE
POSITIVE STRATEGY TO EMBED BIODIVERSITY INTO UK INFRASTRUCTURE
Amey, one of the UK’s leading infrastructure and public services providers, has launched its first Nature Positive Strategy, a landmark commitment to place biodiversity and ecological resilience at the core of its operations.
The strategy sets out how Amey will design, deliver, and maintain infrastructure that actively supports nature, helping clients meet their sustainability goals while building a greener, more resilient future for the UK. It aligns with the government’s Industrial Strategy 2025 and national priorities to restore nature and accelerate the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
With operations spanning transport, defence, and justice, Amey manages a vast network of roads, highways, buildings, and bridges across the UK and has an increasing presence
internationally. Many of these assets offer wildlife connectivity and habitat ‘stepping stones’ within intensively managed or developed areas, giving the company a unique opportunity to enhance biodiversity while delivering essential public services. Collaboration is central to the approach. Amey has signed the Nature Positive Business Pledge, a peer-reviewed framework for transparent reporting and measurable action. The company also supports Rebuilding Nature, an alliance recognising nature as critical
infrastructure, and partners with the Supply Chain Sustainability School to drive knowledge and innovation across the value chain.
Emily Davis, ESG Director at Amey, explained: “Protecting biodiversity has always been important to us, but this strategy gives Amey a clear framework to deliver measurable impact. As one of the UK’s largest infrastructure providers, we have a responsibility to design and deliver projects that enable nature to thrive. By embedding nature-positive principles into everything we do, we can create infrastructure that serves communities, protects the environment, and is fit for the future.”
The Nature Positive Strategy also underpins Amey’s focus on decarbonisation and climate resilience, embedding sustainability across the company’s long-term ambitions.
Kubota (UK) won the Alternative Power Innovation category, in the PlantWorx 2025 Innovation Awards. The company has been recognised for its electric retrofit technology, that allows customers to move from diesel power to a full battery electric driveline across a growing range of Kubota’s mini excavators. As contractors and rental companies look to transition to zero emission drivelines, Kubota is offering an alternative to pure battery electric models. Currently available for its 1.8tonne KX019-4e and 2.5-tonne U27-4e mini excavators, Kubota has developed a modular retrofit battery pack, that can be used in
place of a standard diesel model’s engine. The battery pack and electric motor can be installed in place of the diesel engine by the customer or dealer, when a zero-emission machine is required. If required, the machine can be returned to diesel power for other types of work, to ensure maximum utilisation.
The Electric Retrofit kit includes the battery pack, battery management system (BMS), electric motor, human-machine interface (HMI), battery charger, cable harness and adapter parts. The electric motor provides the same power output as the conventional diesel engine, resulting in no change in performance or productivity on site. The retrofit option extends
the life of existing machinery and reduces investment cost for contractors and rental businesses.
Kubota’s solution reduces maintenance, service and fuel costs. Noise levels are considerably lower and there are zero exhaust emissions when in electric mode, making the retrofit machines an ideal solution for urban job sites and projects that call for machines to work inside buildings. The battery pack has been designed to work for at least three hours, in line with the typical operation of these machines.
“We are delighted to have been recognised with this award for the Electric Retrofit option,” said Rob White, Kubota (UK) Construction Division Manager.
“We believe that the retrofit kit offers customers a costeffective, environmentally-friendly solution that allows them to start their transition to electric power and to meet the needs of their customers with proven, existing machinery today. It offers a solution that bridges the gap to a high-cost, full battery electric model in the future.”
CRL Marks 70 Years with a Commitment to a Net Zero Future
Concrete Repairs Ltd (CRL) is proud to celebrate 70 years as a leading specialist in concrete refurbishment and asset maintenance, while looking ahead to a net zero future.
Founded in 1955 to repair wartime bomb damage in London, CRL has grown into a multi-disciplined contractor with a turnover of £65 million, delivering projects ranging from £5,000 to £15 million across the highways, water, rail, marine, nuclear, utilities, and built environment sectors. Today, the company employs 340 staff across seven UK offices and one office in Melbourne, Australia. Built on repair, focused on sustainability, from early projects in London to major works, such as the Thames Flood Barrier, CRL has steadily expanded its expertise. Its services now include corrosion control, concrete condition surveys, structural strengthening, bearing replacement, external refurbishment, and grouting. CRL’s business model, extending the life of concrete structures through repair rather than rebuild, is inherently sustainable. The company has committed to achieving net zero operations by 2045, with interim targets including:
• 76 per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 (from a 2020 baseline)
• Net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030
• 50 per cent reduction in all emissions by 2040
• Elimination of single-use plastics and a reduction of waste across all projects and offices
Progress is already evident: CRL has reduced its carbon emissions by 33 per cent since 2010, diverted 97.5 per cent of all waste from landfill, and upgraded 80 per cent of its fleet to Euro 6 or low-emission vehicles. Staff also support community initiatives, such as woodland conservation projects in Coventry and improvements to local school playgrounds in Walsall.
Steve Jones, Southern Regional Director, said: “The construction sector has a vital
role to play in tackling climate change. CRL is committed to doing its part. By working together as an industry, we can deliver a cleaner, more sustainable future, one that will stand strong for the next 70 years.”
To mark the anniversary, CRL will plant 70 trees across its UK and international sites, a symbolic gesture that reflects its long-term sustainability goals.
Sanjay Patel, Managing Director, said: “Reaching 70 years is a remarkable achievement. Our success rests on the professionalism of our people, past and present, and the support of our clients and partners. As we celebrate our history, we’re focused firmly on the future, reducing our carbon footprint and helping safeguard the built environment for the next generation.”
Martin Norry, Sales Manager Construction Division, Rob White, Construction Division Manager and Gordon Smith, Product Manager.
building towards net zero
HD HYUNDAI INFRACORE EXTENDS DX ELECTRONIC GENERATOR ENGINE SERIES WITH NEW DX15 MODEL
HD Hyundai Infracore, the company behind the Develon brand, has announced the official launch of its new DX15 generator engine, delivering powerful performance and outstanding efficiency. The newly-unveiled DX15 is the fifth model in the company’s latest electronic generator engine line-up, the DX Series.
Built on a 15.1-litre V-type 8-cylinder configuration, the DX15 delivers an impressive 457–662 kWm of output and meets EPA Tier 2 and Tier 3 emission regulations, making it suitable for a wide range of global markets. Compared to mechanical engines of the same class, output has increased by 16 per cent. The engine features highefficiency combustion technology and an electronically controlled fuel injection system, further enhancing performance.
Despite its compact design, the DX15 delivers high power density and exceptional performance. Electronic control ensures improved speed stability and reliability, while its robust design enables consistent output even under extended operation.
The engine is also compatible with eco-friendly fuels such as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and GTL (Gas-to-Liquid), and can operate for up to 500
hours without oil refills, reducing maintenance intervals and costs.
“The official launch of the DX15 completes our full lineup up to 1 MW of electronic
sites. We will continue to expand our line-up into the 1 MW+ largescale engine segment, leading the global generator engine market.”
Earlier in March, HD Hyundai
with IMO Tier 2, Tier 3 and EPA Tier 3 emission regulations, further proving the company’s technological competitiveness in the marine market.
DX15 new generator engine.
building towards net zero
BUILDING INDUSTRY READY TO DECARBONISE BUT NEEDS SUPPORT, GUIDANCE AND REGULATION – NEW IGBC REPORT SHOWS
The building industry stands ready to decarbonise, but needs support, clear guidance and ambitious regulation to meet its climate targets – that’s the message of a major new report, Building a Zero Carbon Ireland: Industry Insights & Actions by the IGBC..
“As this new report shows us, by embracing Whole Life Carbon, circularity and collaboration across the entire building and construction sector, Ireland can deliver on its climate targets and inspire Europe,” said World Green Building Council CEO, Cristina Gamboa, who launched the report at an event in Dublin.
“This is a vital roadmap for turning ambition into action, and aligns with World Green Building Council’s global call to the world to #BeBoldOnBuildings – because together, we can show that buildings are one of the greatest opportunities of our time to construct a better future for people, communities, business, and the planet. I commend the Irish Green Building Council for leading this transformation.”
Meanwhile, Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) CEO, Pat Barry, said: “The building industry is willing to take ambitious action on carbon emissions, but as our research shows, it also needs support and guidance, including the removal of regulatory barriers and the introduction of limits on lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, to drive change and innovation.”
Construction and the built environment are responsible for 37 per cent of Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, the same as agriculture. This new publication provides an update on the IGBC’s original Building a Zero Carbon Ireland roadmap (2022) and was launched at a special event for construction industry leaders at The Masonry, Thomas Street.
The report, which is available at www. BuildingAZeroCarbonIreland.ie, also includes practical actions and case studies for those in the industry. The report found that SMEs in particular need support and guidance to decarbonise, and that collaboration
around carbon reduction isn’t happening effectively on many construction projects.
KEY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Construction and the built environment are responsible for 37 per cent of Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions. Ireland can’t reach its climate targets without decarbonising the built environment across its full life cycle, from material extraction to each building’s end-of-life stage.
In 2022, the IGBC published Building a Zero Carbon Ireland, their roadmap to decarbonise Ireland’s built environment. Three years on, how is the industry performing against the roadmap’s targets, what barriers stand in the way, and what actions should be taken next?
KEY FINDINGS
Overall
• The industry is willing to act: A large majority of organisations are eager to decarbonise and play their part in tackling the climate crisis, and many already are. Some, especially larger organisations, have detailed plans for reducing emissions and know that decarbonisation makes good business sense too.
• Regulatory, cultural and financial barriers remain: Some of the common barriers to decarbonisation cited included: 1) Regulations that restrict the use of low carbon construction materials; 2) The investment required to decarbonise including the cost of low carbon materials; and 3) Lack of effective collaboration around carbon reduction on construction projects.
• SMEs urgently need more direct support: Smaller organisations struggle to invest the time and money required to measure their carbon emissions, develop decarbonisation plans and take action. These organisations need direct support in terms of finance, resources and clear guidance. This is critical as SMEs comprise a large portion of Ireland’s construction sector.
Culture and Collaboration
• Lack of early, effective collaboration around carbon reduction on construction projects is a barrier to decarbonisation.
Lenny Antonelli (Project Manager at the Irish Green Building Council) launching the report. Photo by Danny Fitzpatrick.
building towards net zero
• A rapid culture change is needed within the industry to mainstream low carbon, biobased materials.
• Creating a culture of sustainability within organisations requires time and effort and must be resourced properly at all levels.
Lifecycle Carbon Emissions
• Under the EU’s Energy Performance of Building’s Directive (EPBD), to be transposed into Irish law in 2026, Ireland must measure and limit lifecycle carbon emissions by 2030 at the latest. Many organisations want an earlier timetable for these limits to be introduced. Uncertainty leads to inaction and creates the impression that reducing lifecycle emissions is not a priority.
• The link between circularity and lifecycle carbon emissions is not clearly understood. More education is needed to disseminate the importance of this link and highlight the opportunities for addressing lifecycle emissions through the circular economy.
Policy
• Many organisations support the introduction of clear limits on lifecycle carbon emissions for buildings before the EPBD deadline of 2030.
• Green public procurement could be a powerful tool for stimulating
decarbonisation and innovation, but its application remains weak and inconsistent. Many organisations would like to be rewarded more for their sustainability efforts in procurement processes.
• Key regulations (e.g., TGD B & D) must be reviewed to facilitate rapid uptake of low carbon materials.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR POLICY-MAKERS
Regulation
• Introduce a clear, ambitious timetable for the regulation of lifecycle carbon emissions.
• Update key regulations to facilitate rapid uptake of low carbon materials.
Policy
• Put sustainability at the heart of public procurement and thoroughly implement existing green public procurement policies.
• Support the industry to embrace circularity – e.g, through physical and digital infrastructure (digital product passports and material exchanges).
• Strengthen the electricity grid to enable lower carbon manufacturing of construction products and decarbonised building sites. Prioritise electricity uses that support decarbonisation.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR INDUSTRY BODIES
Research and Education
• Produce short, simple, targeted guidance on critical pieces of regulation, key sustainability concepts and examples of good practice.
• Disseminate the concept of life cycle costing and its relationship to low carbon construction more widely.
• Research the carbon performance of different forms of MMC (modern methods of construction) and disseminate the results to the industry.
• Develop a clear, agreed definition of net zero carbon for the industry to work towards.
• Develop guidance and tools to make postoccupancy evaluation the norm on projects
Tools and Processes
• Scale a collaborative, design for performance approach to sustainability into all construction projects, building upon the work completed as part of projects, such as Design for Performance (RIAI & IGBC).
• Prioritise education around Environmental Product Declarations, to help the industry understand these documents and how to use them in specifications.
L-to-R: Lenny Antonelli (Project Manager at the Irish Green Building Council), Eoin Joy (Chief Property Officer at Iconic Offices), Cristina Gamboa (CEO of the World Green Building Council) and Pat Barry (CEO of the Irish Green Building Council) launching the report at the Masonry, Dublin 8. Photo by Danny Fitzpatrick
building towards net zero
NEW DEVELON DX140LCR-7 CRAWLER EXCAVATOR USED TO PROVE NEW GREENER TRANSPORT BY RAIL FOR EUROPE
A new DX140LCR-7 crawler excavator from Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, has been used by Van der Vlist Logistics B.V., part of the Van der Vlist Group, in a trial to prove a new method for transporting large pieces of plant by rail rather than truck across Europe.
The DX140LCR-7 was transported utilising the newly-developed and patented S-Bolster railway platform system from Van der Vlist Logistics B.V. The S-Bolster is designed to carry cargo with a maximum width of 2.59 m, a maximum height of 2.95 m and a weight limit of 28 tonne.
Martin van Dam, Managing Director at Van der Vlist Logistics B.V., said: “Our new S-Bolster officially hit the tracks to transport the Develon DX140LCR-7 excavator after a period of research and development. Our new intermodal rail service for oversized cargo uses selfdesigned, patented railway platforms such as the S-Bolster – engineered to carry equipment such as excavators, aerial platforms, agricultural machinery and camper vans that do not fit into standard containers.
“When transporting by railway we significantly save on the emissions but without needing a longer transit time or higher costs. In the near future, we will develop and put into practice even more methods to transport higher and wider machinery by railway.”
Jan Liska, Supply Chain Director for Develon Europe, commented: “At Develon, we are committed to developing new state-ofthe-art machine and digital technology developments for the global construction industry, from digitalisation and sustainability; automation and alternative drive concepts to networked construction, reduced carbon footprint and the circular economy. The new transport solutions developed by Van der Vlist align with our quest for wider sustainability and to reduce carbon emissions, avoiding any negative impact on people and the environment.”
NEW GREENER RAIL TRANSPORTATION FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT
The new rail service for large pieces of plant now being offered by Van der Vlist Logistics B.V. currently operates from the Netherlands and Belgium to several terminals in Italy, with Germany and Scandinavia to follow next. Thanks to daily train departures, transit times remain short and reliable. The
first successful transport of the Develon DX140LCR-7 was completed in close cooperation with Cargobeamer, enabling smooth intermodal transitions and consistent scheduling. The modal shift from road to rail transport reduces CO2 emissions by 60-to-75 per cent, while maintaining doorto-door delivery, the required CMR insurance coverage and real-time GPS tracking via the Van der Vlist portal. As well as being a much greener choice, the new system does not compromise on speed or cost.
Martin van Dam added: “Our innovative approach is reshaping how oversized cargo moves across Europe – smarter, greener and just as fast. Of course, we’re not stopping here: by actively developing this solution further, we can transport even taller and wider loads by rail, expanding the possibilities for sustainable logistics.”
GPS MONITORING OF CARGOES
With a strong commitment to providing flexible and
environmentally-friendly transport solutions, Van der Vlist has been moving in-gauge machinery by rail for quite some time. Recently, investments were made in 45 ft swap bodies to transport this cargo. The swap bodies are GPS-equipped so clients can monitor their cargo via the Van der Vlist portal.
By incorporating rail transport, Van der Vlist continues to pursue innovations that reduce emissions, with rail offering both operational flexibility and significant environmental benefits. The precision of rail transit times, combined with lower emissions, aligns perfectly with Van der Vlist‘s long-term sustainability goals. As well as the S-bolster product, Van der Vlist has also developed the XL-bolster system to carry cargo of maximum 3 m wide, 3 m high, 12 m long and 28 tonne in weight. Together with another of the company’s clients, Van der Vlist has tested loading, lashing and securing of different types of machinery. Martin van Dam added: “An additional advantage is that it eases road congestion and overcomes the problem caused by the shortage of long haul international drivers. The goal of our iron road is to provide doorto-door solutions for in and outof-gauge cargo, having emissions as low as possible, by using existing regular rail services.”
The DX140LCR-7 was transported utilising the S-Bolster railway platform system from Van der Vlist Logistics B.V.
building towards net zero
KOMATSU EXPANDS ELECTRIC PRODUCT RANGE WITH NEW PC20E-6 MINI EXCAVATOR
Komatsu has announced the commercial availability of its latest addition to its electric product range, PC20E-6. Designed to meet the demands of a full working day, the Komatsu PC20E-6 is ideal for both traditional jobsites and noise-sensitive or indoor applications where zero emissions are required.
The aim of the design is to provide a machine that fulfils the requirements of a realistic working day on the construction site while being as cost-efficient as possible.
ABSOLUTE PEACE OF MIND WITH KOMATSU E-SUPPORT
The 11.8 kW battery-powered mini excavator with 23.2 kWh battery capacity and an operating weight of 2110 kg has a drive train specially developed by Komatsu in Europe. This not only means a major advantage through comprehensive quality control options, but also offers a special guarantee on the Komatsu electric components. This machine also comes with the Komatsu E-Support customer programme. Specially developed for owners of Komatsu electric mini excavators, this programme consists of three parts:
• Factory-scheduled, free maintenance by a Komatsu-trained technician using genuine Komatsu parts
• Three years or 2,000 hours warranty for the machine
• Five-year or 10,000-hour parts warranty for the high-quality components of the electric driveline “The Komatsu E-Support customer programme is included free of charge with every market-
ready electric mini excavator and offers exclusive machine support,” added Emanuele Viel, Group Manager Utility at Komatsu Europe.
The bottom line is that the risk for the end customer is significantly reduced, especially when it comes to exploring the electrification advances in the industry.
DATA-DRIVEN DEVELOPMENT FOR RELIABLE PERFORMANCE
Numerous data-driven findings from Komatsu have been incorporated into the development of the machine.
The Komatsu fleet management system Komtrax was used to analyse 40,000 working days of mini-excavators of a comparable size. The result: 90 per cent of mini excavators work less than 3.5 hours per day. This defined the target for the required, reliable working time with the excavator. This result makes it possible for Komatsu to offer an attractively priced machine with a performance that exactly matches the requirements.
Depending on the operating mode, the PC20E-6 offers capacity for around 3:20 hours (operating mode P), 3:40 hours (operating mode E0) or 4:00 hours (operating mode E1).
Thanks to various charging solutions suitable for different contexts, the machine can also be recharged flexibly, for example by fast charging during the lunch break. The PC20E-6 already operates in the high-voltage range with a system voltage of 77V. An on-board charging option for 230V and 3kW charging power compatible with various plug adapters is offered as standard, as well as the option of an external DC quick charger for 400V and 12kW charging power.
Komatsu’s extensive data analysis, including findings from its electric forklift trucks in Japan, suggests a battery service life of around 10 years, assuming it is charged and discharged daily during operation.
EFFICIENT AND SUSTAINABLE OPERATION
The machine is also attractive because of its simplified daily maintenance. Compared to the conventional PC20 with combustion engine, some aspects of daily maintenance prior to commissioning are no longer necessary. There is no need to check:
• The dust indicator
• The water separator, drain water and sediment
• Drain water and sediment from fuel tank
• Coolant level, add coolant
• Oil level in engine oil pan, add oil
The concept of this innovative machine also includes operation with ID keys as standard. Each machine is supplied with a registration key and three operator keys. One machine can register up to 255 operator keys, while an operator key can be stored for an unlimited number of machines across all models. This is another way to save resources and make every day work more efficient!
Moreover, the PC20E-6 contributes to a company’s ecological footprint with a recycling rate of 99 per cent of its total mass. This makes it an ideal solution for tenders that require no local emissions or are aimed at operations inside buildings or in noise-sensitive areas.
PC20E-6.
SAM FENDER POWERS FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC UK & IRELAND TOUR WITH MERCEDESBENZ EACTROS 600S
Sam Fender’s People Watching Tour of the UK and Ireland has set a new benchmark for sustainability in live music, becoming the first major tour to use transportation powered entirely by electric trucks.
Partnering with Mercedes-Benz Trucks and KB Event, the sellout run of shows was supported by four eActros 600s – saving 840kg CO2eq over the 934 miles travelled (the equivalent of what 33.6 mature trees can absorb annually) while keeping to a demanding, back-to-back schedule across England, Scotland, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Each night, the trucks carried stage sets and equipment hundreds of miles between venues, charging on the road using the existing UK and Irish HGV infrastructure.
With a class-leading 500km+ range on a single charge and the ability to recharge from 20-to-80 per cent in just 25 minutes, the eActros 600 truck proved more than up to the challenge of the fast-paced touring world.
“Transport is a key part of any live music tour, but we wanted to make
the People Watching Tour as green and sustainable as possible,” said Richard Burnett, MD of KB Event, who provided the tour logistics.
“Until now, electric trucks weren’t seen as viable for big tours, but the eActros 600 has shown they can deliver the
performance, the range, and the reliability. No-one else can do this like Mercedes-Benz Trucks.”
Sam Fender himself was equally excited: “We’ve just finished our summer tour where we used Mercedes-Benz electric trucks operated by KB Event. Hopefully, this will help show what can be
achieved on future tours and other artists will jump onboard too. Big thanks to everyone involved and to Massive Attack for pioneering the way with more sustainable touring.”
The feedback wasn’t just from the stage. Drivers of the eActros 600 were quick to praise the truck’s refinement and overall usability.
Despite tight deadlines, charging posed no issues during the tour. “We only needed a maximum 90-minute stop to recharge, which slotted neatly into the schedule,” added Burnett. “It will be even easier when venues start adding their own charging hubs.”
For Daimler Truck UK, the tour represents a landmark moment for both logistics and live entertainment.
Stuart Jeggo, Sales and Marketing Director of Daimler Truck UK, said: “Concerts bring joy to millions, and now they can also help drive a more sustainable future. The eActros 600 shows that electrification works, even in one of the most demanding industries – live touring. A big thank you to our dealers for their support –especially Metrux Truck and Van, and also Ciceley Commercials – without whom this would not have been possible.
VIKI BELL STEPS IN TO SHARE CEA’S NET ZERO STANCE AT TAF BEST PRACTICE EXCHANGE
Viki Bell, CEO of the Construction Equipment Association (CEA), recently stepped in at short notice to join the ‘What’s the Future for Net Zero?’ panel at the Trade Association Forum’s (TAF) Best Practice Exchange, held at the Museum of London. The annual conference gathers more than 180 UK trade associations, representing over 190,000 businesses.
The session, chaired by Alison Heppenstall, Co-Executive Director of Climate Action for Associations, explored how associations can guide a practical and balanced transition to net zero as political, economic and global pressures continue to shift.
Alison opened the discussion with a clear message that associations have a unique opportunity to lead their sectors through the transition, turning net zero into a source of competitive advantage, member retention and resilience. She also stressed that collaboration is key – and
that waiting for the government to act is not an option.
Viki used the opportunity to underline the CEA’s position on technology neutrality and the need for supportive policy frameworks.
She said: “The CEA remains technology-neutral. We do not advocate for one solution over another, as many technologies will be needed to meet the carbon agenda. We are also calling for recognition that developing these technologies
is expensive, often requiring much higher research and development budgets, which should be supported. Technologyneutral outcomes are needed, not a mandated route pushing one tech area over another.
The UK will also need a solid infrastructure to support these various technologies, from battery and charging to hydrogen production and storage.”
The panel, which also included Rod Addy from the Provision Trade Federation, Mary Ntamark from the International Marine Contractors Association, and Maria del Mar Rojas from the Science Based Targets Initiative, agreed that associations have a crucial role to play in ensuring that net zero remains both realistic and achievable for their sectors.
The CEA’s participation follows its earlier shortlisting for Best Association Transformation at the TAF Awards, reflecting its ongoing commitment to championing member interests and driving positive change across the construction equipment sector.
Viki Bell shares the CEA’s technology-neutral stance on net zero during the panel discussion
Project
West Apron Vehicle Underpass
Ramboll has been appointed by daa plc to provide clientside NEC4 Project and Commercial Management services for the West Apron Vehicle Underpass, a landmark infrastructure investment of over €265 million within daa plc’s ambitious €4 billion Capital Investment Programme, aimed at transforming airport operations and connectivity. The West Apron Vehicle Underpass will deliver a critical new underground link between Dublin Airport’s Pier 3 and its West Apron, eliminating the need for vehicles to cross the crosswind runway 16/34. As a major safety improvement measure, the underpass directly addresses a significant constraint previously imposed by the aviation regulator. Once completed, it will remove this operational bottleneck, ensuring safer and more efficient movement across the airfield.
The works will be delivered in the very centre of Dublin Airport’s live airfield and has been described as “open-heart surgery” within a fully-operational environment.
Ramboll’s appointment builds on its earlier role delivering the specimen design and consenting for the underpass, ensuring continuity of expertise from concept to delivery.
Ramboll and daa representatives.
also resolves a long-standing regulatory safety constraint, unlocking safer and more efficient operations for Dublin Airport. This appointment signals our intent to grow our presence in Ireland and continue supporting daa plc as a trusted long-term partner.”
The works will be delivered in the very centre of Dublin Airport’s live airfield and has been described as “open-heart surgery” within a fully operational environment.
Ramboll’s appointment builds on its earlier role delivering the specimen design and consenting for the underpass, ensuring continuity of expertise from concept to delivery.
ability to manage the full lifecycle of complex aviation and transport infrastructure.
Developing
NEC4 Capability in Ireland
With this appointment, Ramboll continues to expand its footprint in Ireland, bringing international expertise and local delivery capability to help shape the nation’s next generation of sustainable, future-ready infrastructure. Ramboll
regulatory constraint, it delivers a step-change in safety and resilience for Dublin Airport. It also reflects our role in helping daa plc strengthen their NEC4 capability to drive better delivery outcomes, expertise that will be vital for a suite of transformative projects identified in the National Development Plan.”
Beyond the immediate project, the West Apron Vehicle Underpass is a strategic milestone in Ramboll’s growth in Ireland. Its complexity and national importance strengthen Ramboll’s profile for future programmes, such as the Greater Dublin Drainage Plan, DART+ and Dublin MetroLink, aligning with the company’s ambition to be a leading partner in sustainable transport and tunnelling projects.
Regional Markets Director, Cathal McKenna, commented: “Securing this appointment on daa plc’s West Apron Vehicle Underpass is a proud moment for our Irish business. Delivering such a technically demanding project, right in the heart of the live airfield, is the very definition of complexity. Importantly, it
This commission follows Ramboll’s successful delivery of the €130 million Apron 5H expansion project, where the company supported daa plc from design and consenting through to construction, NEC4 project management, and commissioning. Together, these projects underscore Ramboll’s
Through this project, Ramboll is also deepening its collaboration with daa plc in the adoption of the NEC4 contract form. By supporting daa plc in developing its NEC4 capability and building a shared understanding of contract administration and governance, Ramboll is driving best practice adoption to improve delivery outcomes. This approach is helping set new benchmarks for client-side project management of largescale infrastructure in Ireland.
Ann Gordon, Transport Market Director, UK & Ireland, said: “The West Apron Vehicle Underpass is both a safety-critical investment and a showcase of engineering complexity, more like openheart surgery than conventional construction. By removing a
Neil Sansbury, Managing Director, Ramboll UK & Ireland, added: “Ireland is a priority growth market for Ramboll, and this win reflects both our international expertise and our growing local capability. The West Apron Vehicle Underpass demonstrates the confidence clients like daa plc place in us to deliver projects of national importance, technically demanding, regulator-driven, and safety-critical. It strengthens our position as a partner of choice for major infrastructure delivery in Ireland, underpinned by our NEC4 leadership.”
CPAC Modular Wins Team of the Year at Prestigious CIOB Ireland Awards
CPAC Modular has announced that it has been named Team of the Year at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Ireland Awards 2025.
This recognition marks a significant milestone for CPAC Modular based in Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, and celebrates the innovation, collaboration, and dedication that define the company’s approach to modular construction. The award was presented to CPAC Modular for the delivery of Ireland’s first permanent modular school in Lucan, Dublin – a pioneering project spanning 3,600 square metres across two floors, featuring 24 classrooms, a library, recreational space, and a dedicated special education needs wing.
The CIOB Ireland Awards brought together leading professionals from across Ireland and Northern Ireland to celebrate excellence in the built environment.
The evening was opened by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, who said: “The CIOB Ireland Awards are a reminder that construction is as much about people as it is about materials. It’s about collaboration, vision, and leadership, just as much as bricks and mortar. CIOB continues to do outstanding work, not only in supporting professionals
across the built environment, but also in shaping the future of construction in Ireland.”
Sarah Hallinan, CIOB’s Regional Manager for Ireland and Northern Ireland, praised the calibre of talent on display, saying: “It is inspiring to see such outstanding talent, innovation, and leadership across our industry.”
Speaking of the award, Sean Murphy, Managing Director at CPAC Modular, commented: “We are honoured to be recognised by the Chartered Institute of Building among such esteemed peers. This
award is a testament to the strength of our team, our commitment to innovation and sustainable building solutions, and our belief in the power of modular innovation to transform infrastructure in Ireland.
We extend our congratulations to all the winners and nominees, and our thanks to CIOB for this incredible honour.”
The CIOB Ireland Awards aim to highlight the people and projects that are shaping the built environment and driving the industry forward, ensuring Ireland and Northern Ireland remain at the centre of global construction excellence.
CPAC Modular was honoured with Team of the Year 2025 at the CIOB Ireland Awards.
JCB DUALDRIVE BACKHOE DELIVERS THE POWER FOR IRISH HIRER
One of the first new JCB 4CX Pro DualDrive backhoe loaders in Ireland is proving faster and safer on utilities and infrastructure work.
Purchased by Co Clare-based APH Plant Hire Ltd, the brand new JCB 4CX Pro is on hire to Circet UK which is a leading provider in telecoms, transport and power sectors. The backhoe loader is already showing its versatility on a range of power supply installation projects including the laying of ducting, pole planting for electricity cables and the establishment of access roadways on major work sites.
Supplied by dealer ECI JCB, the new machine benefits from DualDrive – JCB’s latest backhoe innovation which allows the operator to drive and reposition the machine while facing the excavator,
without having to turn the seat to the front-facing position. This is proving highly beneficial on APH’s current projects.
APH Plant Hire Ltd Managing Director, Eamonn Powell, said: “We bought our first JCB second-hand in 1986 and have bought new models since 1990. We always find them fault-free – we’ve never had an issue and the aftersales and service from ECI JCB is excellent.
“The new JCB is quick on the road at over 40kph and very manoeuvrable on site with the four-wheel steer very helpful in tight spaces. Overall, it’s a very versatile machine and we’re really happy with it.
“We handle a lot of electrical transformers which can be lifted with the back actor. DualDrive give us the ability to drive the way we are facing, whereas
traditionally reversing through and into sites was awkward and posed greater risk. It is also very helpful when operating in forestry giving greater visibility through trees. It means we can be faster, safer and more productive.”
The new 4CX Pro model boasts a number of further developments, including a single loader lever to reduce operator effort, revised direction control for quicker and easier use, a return-to-grade function for improved performance and upgraded quickhitch with wider fork carriage.
APH Plant Hire Ltd was established in 1986 and is primarily involved with power line and electric transmission works for ESB Networks and Circet UK & Ireland, operating from its base in Co Clare, it covers Limerick and Tipperary.
One of the first new JCB 4CX Pro DualDrive backhoe loaders in Ireland is making an impact.
SITECH Responds to Skills Gap with Bespoke Training Initiatives
According to the Office for National Statistics, the construction sector faces more than 35,000 vacant positions, a gap increasingly driven by new technology.
To help bridge this gap, SITECH UK & Ireland is expanding its training programme to provide the industry with the necessary skills and encourage people into careers in the advanced construction technology sector.
SITECH UK & Ireland, authorised dealer of Trimble® Civil Construction Field Systems, is making skills development a priority by offering a variety of internal and external training options, ensuring the sector is fully equipped to meet the rising demand in UK development projects and the constant evolution of technology.
Aaron Crowe, Application Engineer at SITECH UK & Ireland, said: “As technology continues to rapidly evolve, it is vital that companies proactively invest in their people and customers through relevant, up-todate and accessible training. The training we offer at SITECH is not only designed to
meet current needs, but takes a broader view, looking to future-proof skills in anticipation of continued industry change.
“Our approach to training is largely bespoke, focusing on applying product training to real-world projects. This way, we can
Joe Allan Spreads the Load with Custom-Built Kubota
Drymen-based Joe Allan & Sons Plant Hire and Contracting is a specialist in low ground pressure operation, used to accessing remote power infrastructure across Scotland for utility provider SSE. With both wheeled and tracked machinery on the fleet, second generation Managing Director, David Allan, was looking for a specific crawler excavator to meet the Glasgow company’s exacting standards.
After consultation with local Kubota dealer HRN Tractors, the company has opted for a KX085-5 midi excavator with a two-piece boom, that provides the additional reach and digging capability that the firm requires. The machine is further enhanced, with the addition of an Engcon tilt-rotator. However, it is below the slew ring that things become more bespoke. Mr Allan called on Stirling-based low ground pressure specialist, JCC Group, to convert the Kubota to meet the company’s specific needs. With standard 450mm wide track pads, that can be taken to 600mm as an option on the KX085-5, the company
best serve our customers by bringing the training to them, addressing their needs and learning more about where we can best support them in the future. Customers benefit from minimised downtime, while we identify where further training may be needed to increase productivity.”
Alongside bespoke courses, SITECH also offers monthly training opportunities on Trimble® Business Centre at a basic and intermediate level, as well as hands-on workshops and certification to help users maximise the value of Trimble® products onsite.
Aaron continued: “We’re also investing heavily in our own people, with a continuous development programme that keeps the SITECH team at the forefront of new technology. That way, we can share the latest knowledge directly with our customers and ensure they have reliable, up-to-date support.” By aligning training with the latest technology, SITECH aims to reduce the impact of the skills gap for its customers and ensure they’re prepared for future industry challenges.
“We’ve known Andy (Wilson, Construction Sales Manager) and the team at HRN for years,” said Mr Allan.
was looking for lower ground pressure than the standard model could provide. JCC removed the track frames, widened the mountings on the X-frame and equipped each side with an additional two top rollers, to lift the track clear of the frames. This has allowed the company to fit a 900mm wide track pad, double the standard machine’s track width, resulting in greatly reduced ground pressure on softer terrain. JCC also lifted the slew ring turret by around 150mm, to provide additional ground clearance beneath the upper structure. Finally, the machine’s standard dozer blade has been seamlessly extended
on each side, to match the new overall width of the tracks.
“The machine has been designed mainly for utilities and some private work,” said Mr Allan.
“But we have been picking up extra work already, as people know that we have the two-piece boom and the tilt-rotate hitch. It’s still easy to move the machine, especially in tight access, as it’s based on an eight-tonner, just with the wider track frames.”
David’s father Joe Allan started the company almost 50 years ago. With five full-time employees, the business now has nine machines in total, including another Kubota tracked model.
“Service and back-up is always better if you keep it local and we rely on the dealer to look after the Kubota machines. We can cover anywhere up to Perth and across Scotland, and HRN provides the back-up that we need to look after our customers.”
Weighing 8,392kg to 9,097kg, depending on specification, Kubota’s KX085-5 is offered with a monoboom that provides 7,330mm of forward reach, or a two-piece boom that increases that reach to 7,820mm. The machine is powered by a 46.5kW (63.2hp) Stage V turbodiesel engine. It uses a twopump load-sensing hydraulic system, providing smooth multi-function operation and the ability to operate the front attachment while tracking. Two auxiliary circuits are standard for attachment power and an electronically-controlled third line return is automatically activated when breaker mode is selected.
The company intends to keep the Kubota for three-to-four years and, though anyone can operate it, Mr Allan tends to take control of the widened KX085-5 himself for much of the time.
“I’m really pleased with the conversion,” he said. “It’s exactly what we needed to access our sites, no matter what the ground conditions.”
KX085-5 midi excavator.
SITECH UK & Ireland is expanding its training programme to address more than 35,000 vacant positions in the construction sector.
recycling & waste management
McQUILLAN COMPANIES BECOMES PRINCIPAL SPONSOR OF RUGBY AT QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY IN NEW THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP
Lisburn-based McQuillan Companies, a leading provider of construction and waste management services has announced a new contract with Queen’s University Belfast as part of its ongoing commitment to developing excellence in industry, through education and sport. McQuillan’s will now become the principal sponsor in rugby for the Men’s Performance team, Women’s Development Team, and the Under-20s Team in a new three-year sponsorship deal. The support from McQuillan Companies will further enable the university rugby teams, male and female, to benefit from high-quality training and mentoring, while enabling students to access time away from studies to invest in their wellbeing. Queen’s University rugby is well known and respected for its rich history of success and the many accomplished athletes the college has supported and nourished over the years. The partnership affirms the company’s commitment to supporting sport as a platform for student-athletes to excel both on and off the field.
Commenting on the new three-year partnership, Niall McQuillan, Director at McQuillan Companies, said: “We are thrilled to become principal sponsor of rugby at Queen’s, and continue our work with the University to support their talented student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence both on and off the pitch. The importance of sport within education is widely acknowledged, and as a large family business we see this continued
investment in Queen’s as a reflection of our values and professional beliefs. This again marks another commitment to learning excellence, helping nurture and support the next generation of professionals. As a local employer, McQuillan’s is totally committed to doing everything we can in this space with students, academics and learning institutions.
Sponsoring rugby for women and men until 2028 will bring an even greater richness to our commitment to fostering growth, leadership, and community engagement, in our work. We are excited to watch the students grow and strengthen both on and off the pitch, through learning and development. As a company ambitious for innovation and sustainability, we look to the local Universities here for excellence, for future leaders, innovators and experts, so we see this as a perfect investment in the future of our economy, community and the University, with everybody coming out a winner.”
Welcoming the partnership, Karl Oakes, Head of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at Queen’s University Belfast, said: “We are delighted to welcome McQuillan Companies as principal sponsor of rugby at Queen’s. This partnership represents a shared commitment to excellence, wellbeing, and opportunity for our student-athletes. Rugby at Queen’s has a proud tradition, and with McQuillan’s support, we can continue to invest in the development of both our men’s and women’s teams, enhancing their experience on and off the pitch. We look forward to working together to inspire leadership, resilience, and community engagement through sport.”
Eddie Friel, Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy at Queen’s, added: “Since 2012, overall student participation in sports at Queen’s has increased by 23 per cent and we are incredibly grateful to McQuillan’s for providing their support to our talented rugby players. We have a long tradition of rugby success, hosting the second oldest rugby club on the island of Ireland and boasting 91 fully capped Irish Internationals and 22 British and Irish Lions amongst its alumni. This investment will allow our women’s and men’s teams to continue to succeed and produce skilled professionals we can be proud of.”
The new sponsorship announcement with Queen’s builds on an existing partnership with both Ulster and Queen’s Universities which began in 2023, reflecting the business focus and commitment to community involvement and McQuillan’s belief in the power of sports to inspire and drive positive change in society.
As part of the partnership, McQuillan Companies will feature as principal sponsor on all team jerseys across the Men’s, Women’s and Under-20s Teams, as well as appearing on pitch side hoarding at the training grounds and main playing grounds for the university rugby teams.
In 2023, McQuillan Companies announced a three-year partnership with Ulster University Gaelic Academy to support students across all Gaelic Games, reflecting their ongoing commitment to nurturing sporting talent, empowering young people, and investing in the future of student athletes across Northern Ireland.
(L-R) Niall McQuillan, Director, Ronan McQuillan, Director, Aoife Redmond, Queen’s Women’s Rugby, Eddie Friel, Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy at Queen’s, Rob Henderson, Queen’s U20s Rugby, John McQuillan, Director, Cara McClean, Queen’s Women’s Rugby, Karl Oakes, Head of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at Queen’s, and Stephen McQuillan, Director at McQuillan Companies, pictured at the new partnership announcement at the Dub training grounds in Belfast.
recycling &
TEREX ECOTEC SHREDDER TRIPLES CAPACITY FOR ROGALAND GJENVINNING
Rogaland Gjenvinning, a leading waste and recycling company based in Sandnes, Norway, has tripled its wood processing capacity while reducing its diesel consumption and CO2 emissions following the installation of a Terex Ecotec TBG 630E Electric High Speed Shredder.
Founded in 2018 by experienced professionals from the waste and construction sectors, Rogaland Gjenvinning operates a stateof-the-art sorting facility in Soma, the western part of the large municipality of Sandnes, Norway. The company offers tailored waste and recycling solutions to both private individuals and businesses, with a strong focus on customer
service, competitive pricing, and environmental stewardship.
Since commissioning the TBG 630E, the company has achieved a 300 per cent increase in processing capacity compared to its previous diesel-powered model. As well as this threefold increase in output, the TBG 630E has also reduced bottlenecks and enabled faster, more reliable handling of approximately 25,000 tonnes of wood annually. The transition to electric power has also delivered substantial environmental benefits. By eliminating the need for over 7,000 litres of diesel each month, Rogaland Gjenvinning is now saving an estimated 18.8 tonnes of CO2 emissions monthly, equivalent to more than 225 tonnes annually. These savings
directly support the company’s mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable waste management. The TBG 630E’s intelligent design has streamlined maintenance routines and reduced downtime with easier access via maintenance walkways and openings, faster workshop access, and simplified screen changes. These operational efficiencies have translated into faster return on investment and a stronger competitive edge. Designed for medium to largescale biomass and green waste processors, the TBG 630E combines two 200kW electric motors with a robust swinging hammer rotor. A further 90kW electric motor provides the hydraulic power
for the open-fronted feeder, discharge conveyors etc. This configuration enables exceptional throughput and consistent end-product quality, while its intelligent screen opening system quickly discharges metal contaminants to prevent damage.
Kjetil Friestad, CEO of Rogaland Gjenvinning, commented: “The TBG 630E has transformed our operations. We’ve not only tripled our capacity but also significantly reduced our carbon footprint and maintenance workload. These improvements allow us to serve our customers faster and more reliably, while aligning with the values of an increasingly environmentallyconscious client base. It’s a win-win for our business, our customers, and the planet.”
Rogaland Gjenvinning has tripled its wood processing capacity while reducing its diesel consumption and CO2 emissions following the installation of a Terex Ecotec TBG 630E.
global brand
YOUR PARTNER FOR SUCCESS: LIUGONG DEBUTS F-SERIES FORKLIFTS AND NEW DEALER OPPORTUNITY AT GIS EXPO 2025
LiuGong, one of the world’s fastestgrowing construction equipment brands, made its debut at GIS Expo 2025 with a clear message and opportunity for the Italian market: become a partner for success.
The company showcased 11 machines from its material handling line-up, including the Italian and European premiere of its new F-Series forklifts, underscoring the strength of a global brand dedicated to dealer growth.
NEW PRODUCTS, NEW OPPORTUNITY
GIS Expo 2025 marked a key step in LiuGong’s European industrial vehicle expansion, led by the first Italian reveal of its next-generation F-Series forklifts. Designed to be time-saving and intelligent, easy to operate and maintain, and optimised for total cost of ownership, the F-Series delivers modern performance tailored to the needs of European operators.
The event also introduced LiuGong’s dealerfirst business model to a new Italian audience.
With material handling now integrated into the LiuGong Europe line-up, the brand reinforced its commitment to long-term dealer support and practical tools for shared growth.
Fabio Marlia, Country Manager for Italy at LiuGong Europe, stated: “Our goal is to grow the Italian dealer network by five new partners by the end of 2025. We’re backing this with a dedicated local service team, a forklift specialist from our global division, and plans to stock parts at our LiuGong Italy facility in Faenza, building on the current availability provided by our established parts centre in Poland. With this support, dealers and rental specialists will grow stronger, faster, and more competitively with LiuGong.”
A FULL LINE-UP FOR MODERN APPLICATIONS
Visitors to the stand experienced a comprehensive range of industrial vehicles, purpose-built for modern warehousing, logistics, manufacturing, and off-road environments. The display reflected both
the scale of LiuGong’s global offering and its alignment with European operational needs.
At the centre of the display was LiuGong’s new F-Series electric forklift range, a smart, versatile line-up engineered for high battery capacity, two-shift operation, 1.5hour fast charging, and a side-removable battery system enabling three-minute swaps. From the compact CPDS18-FMI three-wheeler to the heavy-duty CPD50FMJ, the F-Series combines intelligent design with low total cost of ownership.
Supporting the F-Series was a selection of specialist machines perfectly suited for high-demand applications. These included the CPCD100, a robust 10-tonne diesel forklift for port and industrial work; the CLG2016L-WA pallet truck and CLG2S016WF3 stacker for warehouse productivity; and the CLG2035H-RT4, a rough-terrain forklift built for construction and forestry.
“We’re proud to present a versatile line-up that reflects the quality and capability of
“From compact pallet trucks to highcapacity forklifts, the line-up highlights LiuGong’s focus on intelligent design and practical innovation. Our electric machines are a key part of that story, with over 10,500 already in use across Europe.”
TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN SUCCESS WITH LIUGONG
LiuGong Italy will officially launch soon, further strengthening the brand’s European footprint. The new operation reinforces the company’s long-term investment in regional service and support infrastructure, reflecting the ambition shared during GIS Expo.
“GIS was a clear demonstration of our ongoing commitment to Europe,” said Howard Dale, President of LiuGong Europe. “We introduced new machines to market, expanded our presence in Italy, and opened the door to new partnerships. It’s about equipping the right partners with the products, support, and longterm opportunity to succeed. With over 500 dealers worldwide, new partners in Italy will be joining a global network backed by a brand dedicated to being your partner for success.”
LiuGong’s success in Europe is built on partnership, with every machine supported by training, technical assistance, fast parts access, marketing materials, and after-sales expertise. With electric innovation, global scale, and local expertise, the company is inviting Italian dealers and rental specialists to take the next step as partners for success.
GIS Expo 2025 marked a key step in LiuGong’s European industrial vehicle expansion.
CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAT CUSHNAHAN:
07/08/1956 – 02/09/2025
Pat began working at just 14 years old alongside his grandfather, Paddy McCann, at Lagan’s Quarry. Even in those early years, his strong work ethic shone through. In the evenings, he trained as a mechanic, before going on to become an owner-driver for Lagans. His career took him across the construction world – from building sites with Patsy Napier, to working on the tar squads with Ray Robinson. Pat then spent 10 years as a low loader driver for Jim and Peter Ferguson, a period that he often spoke fondly of.
In 1996, Pat joined Balloo Hire, where he would stay for the next 24 years, becoming an essential part of the team and eventually taking responsibility for the company’s ever-growing fleet of trucks. He planned on retiring in November 2020, but true to form, retirement did not last long. Pat was convinced by Sleator Plant Depot Manager and close family friend, Aaron McCaul, to leave retirement behind for a “wee handy number” at Sleator Plant.
Pat worked at Sleator until his recent illness sadly took hold.
It is fair to say Pat was a real family man. He met his wife, Sally, when they were young. They married when Pat was just 18
years old and Sally 20 to begin a life-long partnership filled with love, laughter and devotion. Sally also came from a family of five and it was fitting they raised their own five children – Christy, Marty, Paddy, Tony and Marie.
Pat was a devoted husband and proud father; he raised his children with strong values but also ensured they had a good balance of mischief thrown in for good measure. His grandchildren have inherited not just his kindness and sense of fun but also his hands-on skills and mechanical know-how –which made him very happy. Outside of work, Pat’s passion was sidecar racing which he took part in during the late 1970s and 1980s. Pat reached the very top of the sport, winning two Isle of Man TT Sidecar Races alongside his driver, Lowry Burton. Pat was regularly described as “the best sidecar passenger this wee island has ever produced.” He also competed at British Championship level, earning the love and respect of the entire racing community – admired not only for incredible talent and bravery, but also for the craic he enjoyed off the track.
In later years, Pat traded the adrenaline of the track for the calm of Edenmore Golf Club, where he was a valued member.
Dieci Mini Agri 26.6 delivered to Mourne Eggs by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
A new Engcon EC206bs twin hitch system for McIlwaine’s , from Ballyward Plant services. MW Hire X-AIR 750-25 by WAC McCandless.Big Al - Alan Castle - HX30 1 - Northern Lift Trucks.
New Takeuchi TB335R delivered to SC Contracts in Coalisland by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Holden Plant Rentals E450AJ by WAC McCandless.
A new Giant G3500z for A Hyde, from Ballyward Plant Services.
Four Winds Investments - MT935 and HX25Northern Lift Trucks.
Shannon Valley Sany SY390 excavator (pictured is David English from SV and Amanda McNally from Sleator Plant.
Shawport Civil & Building ContractorsCowan Bros. Noel Kane Spray Painted Ltd - MLT630-115V & MI30D - Northern Lift Trucks.
The MDE Vortex 100 mulcher, proudly supplied by Ballyward Plant Services to Demesne Contracts..
Used Dieci Mini Agri 25.6 to Patrick Cousin Newcastle by Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Westin Homes with Genie S65 Boom Lift
(pictured is Justin Dunne alongside Amanda McNally) from Sleator Plant.
Simon Martin in Downpartick and his father receiving a new Dieci Pivot T80 from Alan Milne Tractors Newry.
Multi-Unit Sany Telehandler and excavator order to Laois Hire - Sleator Plant.
Crumlin Plant Sales Ltd
DISTRIBUTOR OF: Ammann rollers & compaction equipment, Ausa mini dumpers, Beton concrete vibratory equipment, Radiodetection cable and pipe detection equipment, Hycon hydraulic power packs and tools, Rotair tools and compressors, Yanmar mini excavators.
• Excavators 1 – 45 tonne • 6 – 8 Wheeled Tippers • Mini Digger Hire • Rockhammers
