Specify November 2015

NORTHERN IRELAND’S No.1 CONSTRUCTION MAGAZINE SPECIFY is the official publication for the Construction Employers Federation

NOVEMBER 2015

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NI construction firms becoming more dependent on GB work

T

he political impasse is holding back construction activity locally, and firms are becoming more dependent on work outside Northern Ireland, according to both the Construction Employers Federation and the RICS. According to the RICS and Tughans, around 42 percent of local companies’ workloads are currently outside Northern Ireland and this is expected to increase in the final quarter of the year.

Respondents said that a lack of clarity around public spending, combined with political uncertainty, is impacting activity and driving the need to grow work elsewhere.

Overall, workloads of Northern Ireland construction surveyors increased in the third quarter of the year, for the ninth quarter in succession, however infrastructure workloads were flat and public nonhousing workloads fell significantly.

RICS Northern Ireland spokesman, Jim Sammon, says: “The latest survey underlines that local firms in the construction sector are becoming more and more dependent on work outside of Northern Ireland, particularly in GB. This is because they are seeing no real recovery in activity within Northern Ireland, particularly now that they see the political environment impacting further on infrastructure spending.”

“Investing in infrastructure is a crucial part of rebalancing and growing the economy. We need better roads and railways, schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure to meet our sustainable energy needs.

A lot of our existing infrastructure is aging and in need of replacement,

• Fire Detection & Alarm • IP Video Surveillance • Intruder Detection & Alarm

O’Hare & McGovern celebrate being named ‘Overall Winner’ at the CEF/Specify Construction Exellence awards.

and we would strongly encourage the policy makers to take a strategic view in relation to where best public money should be spent to make the most positive impact for the economy and society.”

“Government also has an important role to play in creating the right conditions for private sector investment. Research supports Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) as an additional viable solution to the current infrastructure investment deficit. The PPP model has been increasingly advocated in response to the infrastructure investment challenge since the global financial crisis. We would also like the politicians to set a date and rate in relation to the reduction of corporation tax as soon as possible,” he adds.

Similarly, just over a third of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies are struggling to stabilise their business activities, while 16% are operating in survival mode, according to the latest quarterly survey from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and PwC.

*** On a much brighter note, O’Hare & McGovern were announced as the overall winners at the CEF/Specify Construction Excellence awards.

The award was presented to the construction firm by guest of honour, Dame Mary Peters, in recognition of its work on Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine at Queen’s University Belfast.

This particular project will benefit thousands of patients in the years to come, supporting the WellcomeWolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine in its mission to develop new avenues for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of important ophthalmic and vascular diseases to relieve human suffering.

Congratulations to all the award winners in all the categories.

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NOVEMBER 2015

contents...

6 DIGEST Andrew Tough, a senior bank executive, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the RICS

8 DIGEST

Castlewellan apprentice Gary Doyle takes World Skills gold in São Paolo, Brazil

12 TRANSPORT

Ulster University research is the route to safer roads

16

CITB

Leaders in construction – the future for the industry?

56 DRAINAGE NI Water’s new Integrated Wetland Construction site near Stoneyford is the first of its kind

62 MOTORING

Volkswagen launches two new vans, the Caddy and the Transporter

65 67

DIGEST

A disused military compound gets a new lease of life thanks to Fold Housing

DIGEST

McLaughlin & Harvey’s Meccano bridge sets a new world record!

17 CEF/SPECIFY CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS: O’Hare & McGovern take the top prize for the Wellcome Medical Research building at Queen’s University.

-

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GALGORM RESORT & SPA martin & hamilton’s £8m extension and refurbishment to one of Northern Ireland’s premier resort hotels.

Page 30

14 HAYS RECRUITMENT

Mark Wade from Hays outlines the need to find more skilled professionals for the construction industry.

64 WILLIS INSURANCE & RISK ASSESSMENT

David Stevenson from Willis advises us on the benefits of Cyber Liability Insurance.

82 INTERVIEW

Specify talks to Paul McKenna of mac interiors about why you shouldn’t be afraid to hire someone better than you!

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Senior bank executive Harvey Group acquires Solmatix appointed as part of 5 year growth plan inof UKRICS and Ireland. chairman NI NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists Newtownabbey-based M&E services company, Harvey Group, has acquired Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Solmatix Renewables in a move the companies say will transform the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland and act as a springboard for further expansion into the multimillion pound UK and Ireland renewable energy markets.

The acquisition, for an New RICS Northern Ireland Chairman Andrew Tough with new board commercial undisclosed sum,members, will bring to 110 property agent Julie McClelland of CBRE, and the number of people employed building surveyor Michelle Atkinson of Atkinson Surveying. directly by the Harvey Group in Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

TheWith executive responsible a turnover of £30 million for managing Danske Bank’s and over 80 staff, Harvey Group premises in Northern Ireland is has over 30 years’ experience toinbe newinstallation local chairman of thethe design, and RICS. Andrew Tough, who has maintenance of building services over 30every years’conceivable experience within kindinofthe property sector, will take building type throughout NI,over GB the rolePharmaceutical/ from Paul andhigh-level RoI, including Kendrick thisLaboratories, month for a twoCleanrooms, year term. Government and Education, During his time in office, Tough Healthcare . Richard and Mr NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

will lead the organisation’s Northern the company to achieve Ireland Board has andgrown represent RICS a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff locally in engagement with members, operating from its Nutt’s Corner stakeholders and media. He will premises. be joined on the board by newlyAs a result of the deal, Solmatix elected board members: commercial will continue to operate as an property agent Julie McClelland of autonomous and independent CBRE, and building surveyor Michelle company within Harvey Group Atkinson of Atkinson Surveying.

Brian Harvey, managing director RICS, which has a remit to act in of Harvey Group, said there was the public interest through its Royal a perfect fit between the two Charter, has around 4,000 members organisations. across the land, property and “We have been planning to construction industriesinvolvement in Northern grow our renewables Ireland.

They include chief for some time, eitherthe organically executives of housing associations, or through the acquisition of an leading academics, business leaders, established player. Having worked senior public servants, and a with Solmatix Renewables onrange of practitioners andwe’d students. aother number of contracts, Mr Tough that hewith is pleased to always been said impressed take on the position at an their engineering rigour andimportant time for the land, professionalism.

In property fact, thereand seemed construction sectors in Northern to be a natural synergy between Ireland. our two companies in terms of “Some of and the biggest what we do how weopportunities do it. I and challenges for the Northern approached Richard Bell about a Ireland at present year agoeconomy to float the idea of relate our companies coming together, directly to land, property andbut only ifconstruction. there was a Ingood fit. of After terms the careful positives, consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

construction activity is picking up, since the global financial crisis. property prices are recovering, and “The chartered surveying institutions are actively looking for professional has an important opportunities to invest in the local role to play in the recovery of the property market,” he points out. economy, and we must ensure that “There are of course also still we are adopting best practice and considerable challenges, including the developing skills in areas such as pressures on infrastructure spending, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and the lack of grade A office and using the International Property space in Belfast, which need to be Measurement Standards (IPMS). addressed through innovative thinking.

These will help increase Northern RICS welcomes steps taken by Invest Ireland’s competitiveness and enhance NI to support the development of its ability to attract inward investment.

Celebrating the A acquisition (from left) Bell, Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth more grade office space, butNorah-Anne more ForRichard instance, adopting IPMS in Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). can be done. Planning policy is one Northern Ireland will help ensure as great news for investors Solmatix, can its have beneficial.

Fromor mythe perspective, potential route, designation of that international customers, and when staff. making having Solmatix partincentives of Harvey enterprise areasaswith for certainty ofsuppliers information “In many respects, it’s a case ” he Group gives uscould a level expertise development beofconsidered. decisions about accommodation, of ‘business as usual’. However, in that“We would havealso taken us yearsthe to would encourage adds. realCurrently terms, being part ofofthis acquire otherwise. policy-makers to more closely a member thelarger RICS organisation will give us access “Harvey Group and Solmatix consider alternative methods of Presidents Panel of Arbitrators to and enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean financing infrastructure investment.

Independent Experts, Andrew Tough resources purchasing power. our commitment professionalism, Research supportstoPublic Private has been aand leading figure in the Ultimately I believeproperty this will sector lead our desire to (PPPs) deliver as our to Partnerships anservices additional Northern Ireland to greater growthHe and the very highesttostandards, and the viable solution the current since the 1980s. hasinvestment held senior within operations, as wellproperty as importance place on treating our infrastructureweinvestment deficit. The roles inour a number of leading more jobsbefore and job security.

It’s a customers, and our staff PPP model our has suppliers been increasingly agencies, joining Danske win-win relationship that’s Portfolio good with courtesy and consideration. advocated in response to the ” Bank in 2014 as Regional for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and infrastructure investment challenge Manager. www.rics.org well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition

Whitemountain awarded £13m London Luton Airport Contract

Whitemountain has been appointed by London Luton The £100m investment Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction Airport (LLA) to help deliver the first major work as part of the in LLA is set to transform Airport’s £100m redevelopment project. the airport by improving contract atinvolveRandox Science Park The £13m contract will Whitemountain undertaking the overall customer construction and civil engineering of theproduction landside infrastructure and transport of Randox’s pioneering facilities. medical diagnostic products and will Whitemountain, which is part of the also Lagan Group, is an established market include associated administrative leader in Northern Ireland across contracting and materials sectors. functions. The works are the first The project at LLA includes turning the existing approach road to the phase of a major capital expenditure terminal building into a dual carriageway, remodelling of the set-down area project by Randox to develop the and the repositioning of the coach terminal. former Massereene Army Barracks Mark Kelly, Managing Director of Whitemountain “There into ‘Randox said: Science Park’is –a abig ambition to transform London Luton Airport and we’re very happy to be futuristic R&D and manufacturing delivering works on landside infrastructure and transport facilities.

WItH a reputation for facility. The award-winning, The work we are delivering will be designed to improve access,biotechnology circulation andfirm, parking excellence in constructing high international facilities.

This is necessary to support the Terminal Expansion Project and quality projects, tAL Limited unveiled its plans for an innovativeis at centre of a wider strategy to improve facilities. hasthe been awarded a significant hubpassenger on the 43and acreairside site earlier this “These types ofby civilglobal engineering contacts are significant for the company contract (£3.1m) year. in its growth across the UK and further afield.

With extensive experience in medical diagnostics company Welcoming the announcement, road construction and the airport sector, our expertise abilityoftoTAL deliver Randox.

Damien Hughes, and Director quality projects on time positions us very well within the marketplace.

This initial contract is for the Limited commented: “We are ” construction of a new facility for

delighted to have been awarded

experience this contractand withincrease Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The capacity from 12 million Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science to 18exciting millionbusinesses passengerson a local and Park is core to our plans to create per year 2026.Through A and globalbylevel. the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve new search of oursecurity work and the area dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export is already helping. is team TAL has professionalism of Itour high-value healthcare capabilities to equipped with over the latest steadily grown the last 34L years world markets.

This state-of-the-art to R: John Hasson, Operations Manager; John Donaghy, scanning and tray award returnreinforces Commercial Manager; Gareth McNern, Project Manager and this contract premises will become a centre of from Whitemountain on site at Luton Airport. systems designed the strength of ourtoexpertise in the cutting-edge research, development improve the speed clear security. healthcare sector. ” and ease for passengers andtodiagnostic manufacture, covering Nick Barton, CEO of LLA, added: “The appointment of Whitemountain The project will be delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and shows good progress on theheart redevelopment LLA. Theprovide work a to BIM we’re level 2making in partnership disease. Weofwill also to widen the link road, remodel our bus terminal and increase car parking with the design team Ostick and significant boost to the local economy space is essential to Rainey our vision to transform the airport.

Alongside Williams Architects, & Best, through new job creation.major We very improvements to the terminal, the work will notlook onlyforward increasetoLLA’s capacity Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller much working with by 50% to 18 million and passengers by 2026, butinitial also ensure we Consulting Engineers Charlesper year TAL on this contractthat to deliver deliver the Consulting. best possible experience for our ” infrastructure we Hutchison thepassengers. high quality Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

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20/08/2014 16:45

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Belfast Waterfront counts to first conference CDE Global doubles size down of north america office as £29.5m extension is completed applications in a variety of sectors; construction, recruits.” recycling, mining, specialist industrial sands and Joel Prince, general manager of CDE Global environmental. The regional office network has in North Carolina, said: “At this point there are Around 2,000 specialists will opportunities to the city. a presence in Kolkata (India), Sao Paulo (Brazil) eight of us working in the office made up of travel to Belfast on 11-13 May A board of directors will now and Cary (North America). business development executives and senior design 2016 for one of the world’s be appointed, with the company Brendan McGurgan, managing director of engineers.

We really value a blend of technical and largest medical conventions taking over the daily running of the CDE Global, said: “The size of the market across commercial talent and we have been fortunate – the annual International Waterfront and Ulster Hall from April all sectors makes North America a continent to find that by working with Virginia Tech, a local Surgical Congress of the 2016. Both venues will remain in the where there is a significant opportunity for the university.

Association of Surgeons of council’s ownership. company to target and, while it is competitive, “It was important that we continued the ethos Great Britain and Ireland “It’s clear that our investment The CDE Global team based in North Carolina we believe that our people, along with our of the CDE headquarters in Cookstown in our (ASGBI). in Belfast Waterfront is already supply chain and the energy efficient nature of office in North Carolina, so of the eight of us It will be the first major conference beginning to reap rewards,” said CDE Global, which has its headquarters our products, will set CDE apart. Achieving currently in the office four are from Northern held at the new look Belfast Councillor Declan Boyle, Chair of in Cookstown, recently announced that it significant growth in market share in the US and Ireland and four are from America. The local Waterfront. the Strategic Policy and Resources has doubled its presence in North America, Canada will form a major part of our global growth community also shares many similarities with The announcement came as Belfast Committee. with the creation of four new jobs. strategy to 2020 and we look forward to realising Northern Ireland so it was a natural fit for our base City Council approved the creation “The value and quality of the The company says this investment is a its full potential in the coming years. to be here.” of a council-owned company to run bookings secured so far shows that demonstration of their commitment to the “There are several reasons why we chose Cary Mr Prince added: “There is a strong tradition the bigger Belfast Waterfront facilities, customers are impressed by what’s significant opportunities within this key market and as the location for this office. First and foremost it of machine export from Northern Ireland to on completion of its current £29.5m on offer – a superb location, a forms part of the company’s growth strategy for is halfway along the north coast, which positions North America and there is a respect for the extension, along with the Ulster Hall. warm welcome, plenty of new hotel 2020 which will see the team target a significant us in the best time zone to engage with the North craftsmanship.

There is a lot of skill in Northern Councillors decided that an developments in the pipeline and, increase in sales in North America.

American market. It is also situated close to the Ireland and our customers will be aware of that. arm’s length body owned by, but of course, Northern Ireland’s only and exhibition facility over the next The ASGBI congress – the The recruits will be joining the office in Cary, Research Triangle Park of North Carolina, one of It is important to remember that every machine independent from, the council would purpose-built conference venue. three years. largest gathering of surgical North Carolina, which is responsible for sales, the largest research parks in the world. Almost all we sell in North America will help to support job help the Waterfront to successfully ‘Belfast Surgical Week’ is expected Together, the bookings will bring specialists in the world, outside engineering and after sales care for customers in Fortune 500 companies have a presence in this creation back in Northern Ireland.” compete with other conference to bring in around £2.2m for the in a £34m windfall for the city and of the USA – brings to 25 the the US and Canada. area. The infrastructure is good, with an airport CDE Global currently employs 140 people facilities, and offered best value for local economy, through hotel bed showcase Belfast to around 70,000 number of international and CDE Global designs and manufactures materials close to the new office, and we are also in the in Cookstown with a sister company, CDEnviro ratepayers in maximising the potential nights, transportation and other business travellers from across the national events already confirmed washing and classification equipment with vicinity of some great engineering schools for new employing a further 28 people. of the venue to bring jobs and other visitor spend. globe. for the state-of-the-art conference

Gilbert-ash creates 40 new jobs Newry firm secures tunnelling contract for following high profile contract wins

£57m Bloomberg European HQ AwArD-winning construction and fit-out contractor GilbertAsh has announced that it has created 40 new jobs in the first half of 2015.

The substantial increase in staff numbers has been driven by a series of high profile contract wins across the UK including the £13 million contract to refurbish and extend the National Army Museum and the £20m refurbishment of the world-renowned Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London.

This consistent success with large contracts has also seen Gilbert-Ash expand its base in London, with the company moving to larger new premises in the centre of the city.

The jobs are of across Caroline McKeown Ulster all Bank, Terra Solutions Managing Director, Barry construction disciplines including McAllister, Girvan Gault, Ulster Bank, and site managers, site engineers, design Andrew Lambe, project manager, Terra Solutions.

managers, planners and estimators.

Ray Hutchinson,Newry-based Managing A specialist Director offirm Gilbert-Ash, said: “I a tunnelling has secured am very proud that the company major contract to link a £57m has increased its workforce office development in theso significantly at this time. took the City of London to theWe London strategic decision to target projects Underground. that would allow has us to make use of Terra Solutions been our expertise and experience and subcontracted by Hochtief UK Ltd this activity is helping us to sustain to create two passenger tunnels our plansa ticketing for continual between officegrowth. under By specifically targeting bespoke Bloomberg’s planned Europeanprojects in niche areas, weBank haveStation, won a headquarters and number of high profile, multi-million which is on the Waterloo and City pound contracts and we anticipate line. further wins in the coming year.”

The company, which is being Gilbert-Ash has recently supported by Ulster Bank, will completed thethe 5Gcontract Innovation begin work on thisCentre at the with University of Surrey, month, the project due which to be is the first facility of its kind worldwide completed before summer 2016. dedicated to the Research Barry McAllister, Managingand Development of 5G technologies.

In Director of Terra Solutions, says: Liverpool the company has recently “In order to reduce peak period

finished Phase 1 of the major refurbishment landmark congestion on of theanother Waterloo and site, the Philharmonic Hall.

City line Liverpool at Bank Station, Transport The Everyman Theatre in for London has reached an Liverpool, which wasdeveloper constructed agreement with the of by Gilbert-Ash, won the most a Bloomberg Place to construct prestigious award in the new ticket hall within its architecture basement, industry last year, the Stirling Prize, providing an entrance/exit. These beating the Shard, the Library new passenger entrances will be of Birmingham London formed by two and 5.5mthe diameter Aquaticsand Centre. tunnels, Terra Solutions is Mr Hutchinson added:appointed “It is in delighted to have been London where Gilbert-Ash has to carry out the specialist tunnelling enjoyed the most success recently works.” and“We’ve the expansion of our office worked closely with reflects this.

Work is Ulster Bank for moreprogressing than sevenat a rapid pace on ahave £20m refurbishment years, and they supported of the Institution of Engineering our continued development andand Technology building in Savoy growth.

As part of this latest Place in London, with the building dueus project, Ulster Bank is providing for handover in October 2015.

We with increased facilities to help us have also recently secured a £1m meet the investment needed to contract tosuch work on thecontract, Foreign” complete a major

Pictured at the Institution of Engineering and Technology's building in Savoy Place in London where Gilbert-Ash is currently carrying out a £20 million refurbishment is ray Hutchinson, Managing Director of Gilbert-Ash, and Gerry Hughes, Construction Director of Gilbert-Ash

he adds.

The £57m Bloomberg Place development, which will be the financial information provider’s new European headquarters, will comprise of two nine-floor office buildings, providing more than 110,000 sq m of high-specification office space.

Girvan Gault, Head of Lisburn Business Centre at Ulster Bank, says: “Terra Solutions secured this very prestigious contract to deliver a world-class infrastructure and Commonwealth office building project against stiff competition onfrom Kinginternational Charles Street in Whitehall. businesses.

We have formed strong They will be using new relationships tunnelling with our partners onthem all ofatour technology, putting the recent projectsofand this has helped cutting-edge engineering, and toUlster createBank newisopportunities very pleased through to repeat business as we move support them to deliver theforward with our plans for expansion. ” project.”

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Kingspan’s new technology Castlewellan apprentice breakthrough to lower Southern Regional College’s set skills including Electrical Installation, Gary Doyle has scooped the Welding, Web Design, Cooking and building lifetimeBricklaying. costs and Gold Medal in the Plumbing and Heating Worldskills Gary is a Plumbing Apprentice competition in Sao Paulo, from Kinallen, Ballyward and, enhance environmental Brazil, to officially become is employed by Kieran Trainor the World's best apprentice Plumbing and Heating. He has won performance plumber. numerous competitions and awards Gary was selected to represent Team UK in Plumbing after excelling in Squad UK and the WorldSkills UK National Skills Competitions. Gary has been tutored every step of the way

by Ronnie Ferris, his SRC tutor.

WorldSkills is the largest international skills competition in the world. Held every two years, the Competition sees around 1000 young people, aged 18-25, from all over the world come together to compete for medals in more than 45 different

at both local and national level since commencing his apprenticeship at Newry Campus and had to go to Brazil and Germany for two weeks intensive training with the Brazilian and German squads as this was part of the final elimination process. At the final selection event Gary competed along with competitors from Germany, Italy and Switzerland during the process and had the top mark.

After four days of intense competition, Gary came away with

takes World Skills Women’stec buildsgold on success with loan

Gary Doyle with his instructor Ronnie Ferris.

the Gold medal, one of only 3 Gold medals won by TeamUk. Skills Minister Nick Bowles congratulated Gary and the rest of the medal winners.

Gary commented, “ Being selected

for Team UK was an amazing achievement in itself, but to win a gold medal and to be named the best plumber in the world is such an incredible experience.”

Lynn Carvill, Chief executive of WoMen’sTeC is pictured with Harry McDaid, Chief executive of UCiT and Ray Hutchinson, Managing Director at gilbert-ash.

2020 build on Grand Designs

(l to r) phil smith, Managing Director UK & ireland, Kingspan insulated panels and gilbert McCarthy, Managing Director, Kingspan insulated panels.

Kingspan insulated panels has launched ipn-QuadCore, a new insulated panel core that delivers the best thermal, fire and environmental performance of any closed-cell material. invented with a bespoke technology process that creates a unique microcell structure, ipn-QuadCore is set to bring about a fundamental shift in building performance, resulting in lower lifetime costs and enhanced environmental credentials.

“This is our most significant insulated panel technology breakthrough in a decade,” said Gilbert McCarthy, Managing Director, Kingspan Insulated Panels.

“The property market demands high performance, energy-efficient buildings that deliver low risk, high net yield and reduced environmental impact. The unprecedented performance of IPN-QuadCore helps to deliver these superior buildings, making the strongest business case yet for sustainability.”

IPN-QuadCore delivers a 20% thermal improvement over standard polyurethane insulated panel core insulation. It has a lambda value of just 0.018w/mK, the best in the industry, and achieves U-values as low as 0.08w/ m2K. Gareth Boyd, Director 2020 Architects; Michael Howe, Director 2020 Architects and Home IPN-QuadCore enhances Owner of Grand Design Build. the environmental credentials of buildings in two ways. Firstly, the technology helps to achieve higher ratings in SITUATED on one of the most stunning sites on the North building assessment methodologies such as BREEAM and LEED, with the Coast, an old stone forge in Portrush has been transformed into aforementioned AECOM study showing that an IPN-QuadCore building a spectacular modern home that featured in a recent Grand achieves six more BREEAM Ene01 credits than a typical retail or distribution Design on Channel 4. warehouse.

Designed by the homeowner and partner in 2020 Architects in Each IPN-QuadCore panel is backed by the industry’s first 40 year guarantee Ballymoney, Michael Howe, the spectacular building is now the family home which both and and thermal performance.

This ensures that a forcovers Michael, his structural wife Michele, children, Rudi 3, and Anna 7 months. buildingOver will perform ‘as-built’ over the life of the property, reducing costly the past three years, Kevin McCloud and the team from Grand envelope maintenance and the repair costs asprogress, time passes.

Thethe long Designs have followed building’s visiting siteguarantee multiple times. can be offered because IPN-QuadCore’s unique closed-cell structure resistsbeen As of this month, eventually Michael and his family can now call what’s moisture ingress, which maintains the structural integrity of the core, and cuts known as the ‘Ballymagarry Project’ their home! the risk“The of additional moisture weight, a leading cause of structural failure in site on which our home is located is one the most picturesque inferior products. on the North Coast. I fell in love with the views a long time ago but as it’s IPN-QuadCore is being introduced to cold-store insulated panels an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, I knew that planning permission immediately, with a wider rollout commencing later this year.

WoMen will be trained in construction and iCT skills to help find employment thanks to a Belfast-based charity.

WoMen’sTeC has received a loan from the Ulster Community investment Trust (UCiT) to help deliver this could be a challenge, ” explains homeowner and 2020 Architect, Michael training.

Howe.

UCIT providessea affordable to community andand social enterprise With panoramic views of loans the Portrush peninsula Atlantic Ocean, businesses Northern Irelandthe andsite in the Ireland. stretching as farthroughout as the Donegal headlands, was Republic home toofa 100 yearAs a registered charity, all profits generated are retained and recycled for the old stone forge that had been lying derelict for years. benefit of its clients.

Michael continues: “Over the years, WOMEN’STEC began 21 years and is well the largest of I’veago become used toprovider designing training for women in non-traditional skills in Ireland.

The charity enables homes that are sympathetic to their women to return to employmentsurroundings in non-traditional and it’ssectors, one ofpromoting our a diverse workforce and reducingstrengths the skillsatshortage in the construction 2020 Architects.

I was and ICT industries. Currently theyconfident employ five anddesign engageour with that staff I could dream numerous self-employed tutors. family home, that would be both in Lynn Carvill, Chief Executive ofkeeping WOMEN’STEC explained: “The charity with its beautiful surroundings, was set up to support women inyet areas of high deprivation, giving them be a bastion for the best of modern the skills and confidence to get back into employment in decent paid jobs. design.”

“Our last programme ended in March and has yielded fantastic results.

Michael chose only to use local More for thanthe 400 women obtained went proofed on to further suppliers build and to ensure qualifications, the home was80future by education, intohouse employment, 42which went into voluntary work and building it close43towent passive standards, included the use of 300 13 bales became straw for self-employed. insulation.

“The loanthe from only allowed us toa finish current By restoring oldUCIT forgenot building and creating truly our impressive programme but helped develop our new one.

We will be working with modern extension with double height spaces and floor to ceiling windows, Clanmil Housing residents and have engaged with construction companies the Grand Designs project is now completed after a number of challenges, suchincluded as Gilbert-Ash to help deliverand a whole newsuppliers. level of training to which the budget increasing changing women. ” Michael explains: “The structure is more typically Northern European yet continued: exciting times ahead for WOMEN’STEC, I was She determined to “There use localare craftspeople to deliver as many elements of developing partnerships with the private sector. Our goal the creating build as and possible. is tothe keep into communities and helping women develop the “At 11threaching hour, Glenfort Timber Engineering in Co. Tyrone produced to ‘glulam’ find employment.

We that currently work across want to five skills spruce arched frames are central to the Belfast home’sbut design work beyond that.building’s ” andeventually remain exposed within the interior. From Kells, Creative Speaking of UCIT’s backing forinthe project,the shespecialist said: “UCIT haveforbeen Joinery Worx also played a key role creating joinery the extremely supportive of our work.

Our case worker Sinead was windows, floors and staircase, all of which add to the design element very of our professional and helped us through a difficult time. I can’t speak highly home. ” enough of UCIT and the amazing support they’ve given us.”

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35 new homes inpractice £4m Ulster New Architectural opensBank-supported its doors in Derry investment Two former colleagues with designs The pair’s new venture is already off to on shaping Derry’s future have set up a flying start, with Gradon Architecture Over 35 new homes are being James Patterson of Cultra Developments, left with Kenton Hilman a new architectural practice in the designing the RoCo hair and beauty salon and Oonagh Potter of Ulster Bank. built in an £4m investment by city. Architect Sean Furey, 47, and on the prominent Derry waterfront after development firm that a local architectural technician Liam Nelis, fire destroyed the salon’s original is premises being supported by Ulster 35, have teamed up with long-time and the business was forced to relocate.

Bank. friend and experienced architect With the salon owners passionate about 32 properties are being Graham McDarby to launch Gradon upcycling, Liam and Sean worked constructed to create at Ballynure Road in Architecture in Northern Ireland. a unique, eye-catching environment using as part of the investment Ballyclare Graham and his wife Donna founded predominantly recycled and sustainable

by Cultra Developments Limited, Gradon Architecture in Gateshead, in the materials. along with five detached houses in North East of England, in the depths of Liam said: “Sean and I have longCarrickfergus. dreamed the recession in 2009. Based on the core of opening a practice in Derry. It’s a Work city onhas begun at the values of delivering architecture with care the up and we’re really excited toCarrickfergus have the site, just off the town’s and efficiency, the business has since gone opportunity to work with GrahamNorth to launch Road, whilst the third phase from strength to strength, expanding into Gradon Architecture in NorthernofIreland. the Riverhill Manor development Mongolia and winning multiple industry What’s even better is that we have in been Ballyclare is under way. awards. able to hit the ground running.

James Patterson of Cultra Liam and Sean, who have a total of 35 “We are committed to developing Developments said that the scheme years’ experience in the trade between them, sustainable architecture, so the RoCo salon selling well to date. has been will be heading up Gradon Architecture’s was a fantastic project to start off with.

We Manor will include a “Riverhill expansion into Northern Ireland, backed by have created a unique environment using mix of townhouses, semi-detached the wider team in the UK and Mongolia. upcycled and sustainable materialsproperties, that is notand detached homes, Having the support of the team in the only great to look at but also tailored to aimed the at the first time largely UK and Mongolia means that Liam and Sean needs of the business, its staff andbuyer customers. market. We have seen strong can call on a wealth of extra resources and Projects already secured for Gradon demand for the first phase and specialist architectural expertise, including Architecture include a number of bespoke Building Information Modelling (BIM), should private residential projects and a large-scale a project require it. retail complex.

anticipate that the second phase will be equally as popular,” he says.

“We are working closely with Ulster Bank on our schemes and the bank’s support has been essential to making them happen,” he adds.

Kenton Hilman, Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking NI at Ulster Bank, said that the bank is pleased to support the investment which has helped sustain jobs in the local construction sector and will provide high quality homes for local people.

He continued: “Ulster Bank has £1.5bn to lend to businesses this year across a range of sectors, including residential development.

We are keen to support all good business plans and have the funding available to do so. We’re keen to support home ownership, whether that’s through initiatives like this, or by introducing some of our lowestever mortgage rates earlier this year.”

Liam Nelis, Sean Furey and Graham McDarby of Gradon Architecture at the opening of RoCo salon

Energy company to offer financial rewards Brett Martincustomers launches new Deepstyle 170 to business

AS Businesses rainfall intensity and specially designed captive seal is held securely Manufactured in the UK at Brett Martin’s own that arefrequency big energy users could be set to benefit continues to launch rise each is vital company within the Northern fitting whilst the clip locks the seal firmly quality assured BS EN ISO 9001:2008 factories, from the of ayear, newitenergy into the thatIreland rainwater drainage systems have in place. When fitting the gutter, the CLIP provides the Deepstyle 170 system is a robust, hardmarket. the capacity to protect a building and its justthe enough flex to to allow the gutter to locate wearing solution. Tested to EN 1462 Load Class PowerHouse Generation will give local businesses opportunity contents.

The new Deepstyle high the ability within the fitting, a reassuring click locks the H to withstand heavy duty snow loading, the earn significant financial rewards170 by having to reduce theirwhilst demand performance rainwater system Brettscheme gutter into by position high gloss PVC system is also proven to retain its on the electricity grid. The demandfrom reduction wassecurely introduced the compressing the seal Martin Plumbing & Drainage combines for superiorthrough sealing. the stunning aesthetic with UV protection providing transmission system operator and payments are administered increased drainage capacity with design Deepstyle 170 integrates seamlessly with Brett SEM (Single Electricity Market). long term colour stability – backed by a 10 year flexibility to provide effective The company has reliable, been operating as a and Demand Martin’s Side Unit110mm (DSU) Industrial in the Downpipe System to colour warranty. efficient drainage large commercial, complete the company’s high capacity offering.

Republic of Irelandfor since 2011.

With a reputation for quality and reliability industrial, agricultural and residential roofs.

110mm plain ended or single socket Local businesses currently pay the second highestComprising electricity rates developed over more than 50 years in the Specifically withGeneration, a super-sized 170mm downpipe options, in Europe.developed PowerHouse with support from the CBI and with high quality PVCu fittings, industry, Deepstyle 170 is the latest addition to profile to accommodate the increased volumes of including bends, branches, access pipes and clips, Manufacturing NI, has successfully lobbied the NI Utility Regulator to Brett Martin’s rainwater portfolio which includes rainwater on large roof scheme areas with capacity of Ireland themarket systemtoretains introduce this DSU to athe Northern give the adaptability essential in 106mm Prostyle, 112mm Roundstyle, 114mm 11.54 litres perthe second, thetonew 170 payments planning an industrial businesses chance earnDeepstyle back substantial from the SEM. rainwater scheme.

Squarestyle, 115mm Deepstyle and 160mm systemDemand requiresSide fewer discharge “Combining an efficient installation with Unit (DSU) points is one reducing of the tools that can be used by High Capacity in addition to the innovative and the Transmission number of downpipes to provide System operators to both enable them to exceptional operate andreliability maintain and increased capacity, highly acclaimed Cascade range of cast iron effect material and installation savings.

Designed with the Deepstyle 170 perfectly complements our existing Pictured (L-R) Richard Watson, chairman, Sam Thompson, managing director, and Sam Alexander, a secure electricity network. PowerHouse is licensed through the Utility guttering and downpipe profiles. Brett Martin’s technical director of PowerHouse Generation. installer in mind, the system also features new and range of rainwater systems, ” said Hayley Lowry, Regulator to act as a DSU aggregator and through the SEM rewards on-going investment in the latest manufacturing innovative factory fitted CLIP & SEAL for technology Marketing Manager.Sam “With continuedmanaging director of PowerHouse commercial electricity consumers their capabilityBrett andMartin availability to Thompson, Generation, said: “ “We technology, innovation and product development on all fittingsdemand to easeifinstallation investment in product researchhave andone development, reduce called uponand to provide do so. customer who will earn over €140,000 in capacity payments in ensures that the company’s above and below exceptional long-term sealing range satisfies everya variety rooftwelve drainage Demand reduction can reliability. be enacted by switching our something off, delaying theofnext months due to their ability to reduce part of their electricity ground drainage products remain at the forefront Aprocess, unique switching addition to 170, CLIP from onDeepstyle a generator or the a combination of allthe of smallest these. domestic property demandtoformuch up to two hours if ever required to do so.” of the industry. & SEAL fully integrates with the fitting so that the larger agricultural and commercial buildings.”

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20/08/2014 16:45

10| SIG Ireland

Streamlining our brands to provide greater clarity for customers

In a major development in the building products market, SIG Ireland has re-branded their key business streams under the SIG portfolio.

S

IG Construction Accessories will be the new name for Longs Construction Services.

SIG Facades will be the new name for Facade Systems.

SIG Insulation will be the new name for Insulation Distributors Ltd. SIG Interiors will be the new name for CPD. SIG Roofing will be the new name for Capco Roofing.

SIG Technical Insulation will be the new name for Irish Insulation Solutions.

JS McCarthy and HHI Building Products will remain the same.

This move follows extensive research

by SIG with customers, suppliers and employees. All branches will be re-branded with the new SIG format, featuring a distinctive new look, while the re-branding will also be marked by a refreshed website and comprehensive marketing campaign. In addition their staff will continue to undergo further training and up-skilling to ensure that they continue to be the most knowledgeable in the industry.

The benefits of this rebrand to their customers are: • Easier for customers to understand SIG’s breadth and scale • Easier for customers to understand SIG’s core specialisms • Reassurance in dealing with widely

recognised, market leading brand • Easier access to a wider portfolio of products • Easier to find, while receiving a consistent customer experience across multiple sites An even more robust supply chain No matter where in the country, trading with SIG Ireland you will receive: consistently competitive prices, reliable service and technical expertise.

SIG Ireland believe these changes will improve the customer experience even further and ensure that SIG Ireland continues to be the specialist building products distributor of choice.

For more information visit: www.sig.ie or email enquiries@sig.ie

digest

12|

Ulster University research is route to safer roads Dr David Woodward.

Over the past 30 years, experts at Ulster University have been paving the way in highway engineering research and collaborating with local authorities and national road agencies across Europe to improve the safety and durability of our roads.

Specify finds out more from one of Ulster University’s leading built environment researchers, Dr David

Woodward.

“At Ulster University, we have a highway engineering research centre that focuses on research into road construction and specialises in the performance and composition of road surface materials, how they interact with vehicle tyres and how the road is affected by weather conditions.

“The University’s highway research centre houses specialist equipment

that simulates traffic and predicts the change in road materials over a specified period of time. Using this high tech testing machinery, we are collaborating with industry to develop solutions that are crucial to the future of highway engineering.

“The research undertaken at Ulster University is not only impacting those who are using on our roads, such as drivers and pedestrians, but is also contributing to wide economic development.

“Road infrastructure is vital to the success of any economy and has significant benefits for manufacturing, trade, exporting and employment across all sectors. On a societal level, a well-designed road network using quality materials will decrease road traffic accidents while enhancing social inclusion.

“We are currently working with AECOM, a global provider of engineering and construction services, on a project for Highways England which is focused on measuring the high speed skid resistance of their Strategic Road Network. Although it is only 1,865 miles of motorway and

2,571 miles of trunk roads, it carries approximately one third of all traffic movement in England.

“Skid resistance of this road network is currently measured using a test speed of 30 miles per hour.

However, with speed frequently reported as a factor in fatal road accidents and a contributing factor to skidding, Highways England has commissioned Ulster University to identify innovative methods to measure skid resistance under high speed conditions. This research with AECOM will inform the future development of road surfaces in England to ensure maximum safety for drivers.

“In October 2015, we also began a project for the Irish National Roads Authority to make Irish roads safer. In partnership with University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin and a number of private sector companies we will research skid resistance of the road surface materials used in Ireland and develop a risk assessment framework to ultimately reduce the potential for serious injury or fatality of drivers.”

Tiny heart-rending Ballyclare house wows judges to claim special prize The bedrooms of two little girls in Ballyclare have won a major building accolade for being “the most heart-rending but most inspirational entry that judges have seen”.

The extension to a house on the Ballylagan Road won a special award at the RICS Awards Grand Final in London, alongside category winners including major university projects, multi-million pound infrastructure investments, and town centre regeneration schemes.

Judges were unanimous in wanting to recognise the project. They said that those behind it had battled “against stultifying bureaucracy” and “overzealous officialdom” to “succeed in providing a very special, safe, comforting environment and home to two young sisters whose previous existence from birth was a catalogue of abuse, deprivation and cruel neglect”.

They said that “the determination, self-sacrifice and single mindedness of the entrants convinced the judges of the need for special recognition”.

Owned by Stephen and Sarah Villiers, the house was a winner in the Northern Ireland section of the RICS Awards before going forward to today’s Grand Final. The architect was Alan Patterson Design LLP, and the developer was Heritage Developments (NI) Ltd. RICS judging chairman, Alistair Dunn, says: “The extension to the Ballylagan Road house contains a bedroom each for two little girls who are sisters, designed individually and based on the principles of therapeutic parenting to provide a space for sleep, play, sanctuary, growth and healing. There was real innovation evident in the approach, ‘listening to the needs of the parents and

Collecting the award in London’s Dorchester Hotel was architect Steven Villiers, left, compere Sian Williams, right David Tuffin of RICS, and RICS UK & Ireland Chairman, Fiona Grant.

children’ whilst executing the room fit-out to the highest standard for the most exacting and deserving of clients.”

“Ballylagan is, at first sight, an unremarkable family home. But the partners, both architects, worked with their two very young foster children to design their bedrooms. The rooms are extraordinary; they provide sanctuary through innovative solutions to profound emotional challenges. The design process and the ongoing experience is now the subject of keen interest from childcare specialists and psychologists,” he adds.

14| Hays

Reach out, collaborate and invest in training – tips to exploit new opportunities in 2016...

Skilled professionals will be high on the construction industry’s wishlist this Christmas as many firms in Northern Ireland seek to return to profitability and exploit fresh opportunities, according to Mark Wade, Director at Hays, the leading recruiting experts. that skills lost to the labour market will not be replenished by new entrants from our universities. Loss of confidence in the market has transferred into graduate enrolments.

Overall, the pipeline of new talent coming through the education system into the marketplace is diminishing.

Addressing the skills gap remains the single biggest challenge facing the industry. In my view, there are three main ways to return talent to the local economy:

L

ooking ahead to 2016, local companies continue to voice concerns that they will be hindered from capitalising on new opportunities due to a lack of available skills across both operational and commercial disciplines.

The exodus of established skills from Northern Ireland is well known.

But the painful truth is that the lingering effects of the recession and the skills exodus are still keenly felt. According to one recent Construction Employers Federation report, around one-third of construction firms based in Northern Ireland are currently struggling to make meaningful profit.

Firms require skilled professionals and tradesmen in order to return to profitability. But the stark reality is

1: Extend your reach Stability is slowly returning to the local economy, employers now have the opportunity to make the case for talent to come back to the region. Through the use of digital technologies and social media platforms (such as Linkedin) its possible for local businesses to engage directly with professionals around the world and discuss options around relocatiing to Northern Ireland. For our part, we have offices around the globe and have active promotional campaigns going live right now in areas such as Canada, Australia and the Middle East.

2: Collaborate more closely with secondary and tertiary education Civil engineering is one success story.

Up to 535 civil engineering jobs for graduates are expected to be created

over the next five years. With 132 graduate positions already created by firms in the last year, it is a sector of huge importance to both the local construction industry and the wider economy. This is a vital message for young people making applications to training and further education institutions. We’re presently working with FE institutions, Universities and trade bodies in order to ensure construction can restore its perception as an excellent career choice. The industry continues to offer a wide range of diverse and challenging roles – that represents a wealth of opportunity for ambitious, motivated young people.

3: Invest in training Many employers have already adopted a long-term focus on education,

training and apprenticeships schemes.

Their response to skill shortages is to upskill employees and ‘grow their own’ and many are increasing their budgets for training.

In terms of returning in-demand skills, many employers are being creative and are placing greater emphasis on the benefits package offered to employees, including: childcare vouchers; attractive pension schemes; as well as financial support for professional studies.

By continuing to encourage muchneeded experience back into the sector, supporting new entrants into the marketplace and invest in training, the construction industry can bring confidence, optimism and growth back to the market in 2016.

For further information visit www.hays.co.uk/northernireland

TBC

Specialist Conversions is one of the leading vehicle conversion and adaption companies, operating throughout the island of Ireland.

As part of TBC Conversions, based in Dungannon Co Tyrone, the company offers the complete range of bespoke conversions including ply-lining, seat adaptions, vehicle glazing, shelving systems, tow bars, roof racks and bespoke crew van solutions – ideal for plumbing, joiner and electrical contracting companies of all sizes.

“From our production facility we have the capability to deliver conversions and adaptations on any scale,” said Managing Director, David Donnell.

“We have undertaken work for private customers as well as working for large fleets and work with a number of the key frontline services across Northern Ireland, including power companies, fire authorities and water services.”

Working with all leading commercial vehicle manufacturers including VW Commercial, Vehicles Mercedes, Ford, Citroen, Vauxhall and Peugeot, the company has built a reputation for delivering the highest quality conversions and adaptions for businesses and organisations of all sizes.

“Our team of highly qualified technicians is capable of working on any commercial vehicle and the team is highly experienced in design, the manufacturing process, and importantly all relevant safety legislation. By understanding the needs of our clients, we are able to apply this knowledge to deliver conversions of the highest standard.”

TBC Specialist Conversions have a very clear vision according to David Donnell: “We believe that everyone regardless of need, business type or budget, should drive a vehicle designed to the highest standard and specification and we strive to deliver on that vision continuously, converting and adapting each vehicle with intelligence, empathy and care.”

For more information please contact 028 8772 2247 visit, www.tbc-conversions.co.uk

digest

16|

Leaders in Construction – the future for the industry Representatives from the local construction industry working alongside CITB NI to develop a leadership programme, ‘Leader in Construction’ to be launched December 2015.

Representatives of the construction industry met recently to help CITB NI to develop a leadership programme, ‘Leader in Construction’, for emerging leaders in the local construction industry. The group included representatives from a range of companies both large and small to reflect the intended participants of the programme. Key to the discussions were the type of leadership capabilities required for senior managers and owner/operators in the construction industry of the future.

This substantially-funded pilot leadership development programme is suitable for those next in line for a senior management position, or with the potential to become senior managers, within local NI construction businesses. No formal qualifications are required for entry and the programme is designed

to be equally suitable for high potential candidates from both large organisations and family businesses.

The programme is tailored to the construction sector and will assist the industry to meet current and future challenges. It will develop the strategic and leadership behaviours required at a senior level no matter whether a small or family run business or a large multi-national and will help build managerial capability within participating companies and individuals.

Companies will benefit from leaders equipped with the skills to increase sales and market share, analyse environmental conditions and set strategic direction with better connections both locally and at European level.

Participants will develop the ability to deliver improved results, respond strategically to an everchanging environment, manage significant budgets and complex projects. They will create a plan for their future career and for the

businesses they operate in.

‘Leader in Construction’ will be of equal benefit to those who entered the industry as technical graduates, those who entered at craft level and have moved to a management position, and those who entered as family members of owner/operator businesses. The programme includes 360° assessment, practical workshops, coaching and a two-day European study visit.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI said: ‘The construction industry has suffered from poor press coverage and a lowering of the perception of what it is to be a construction professional. It is time for us to build a new image of our sector – to build an image of professionalism, competence and quality. Strong leadership and management skills are vital to this and to achieving sustained economic growth. The construction industry is starting to show signs of economic improvement and businesses need to be able to

respond effectively to the ever changing needs of the sector. This programme will help individuals and companies to develop leadership skills which in turn will help develop the leadership quality within the industry as a whole.”

‘Leader in Construction’ will be launched in December 2015 and is expected to commence in February 2016. If you have a high potential candidate in your organisation who would benefit from this programme, or if you want to gain the right skills to elevate your career, and company, to the next level, then register your interest now by e-mailing leaderinconstruction@citbni.org.uk to be kept up to date with developments and informed when recruitment for the programme commences.

CITB NI are offering a variety of sponsorship opportunities to organisations who may wish to be associated with ‘Leader in Construction’. Please e-mail leaderinconstruction@citbni.org.uk for further information.

CEF/Specify awards

O’Hare & McGovern takes Top Prize

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’Hare & McGovern was announced as the ‘Overall Winner’ of the Construction Excellence Awards 2015.

The award was presented to the construction firm by guest of honour, Dame Mary Peters, in recognition of its work on Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine at Queens University Belfast.

Hosted by the Construction Employers Federation [CEF] in partnership with Specify magazine and in association with Ulster Business, the awards also recognised an additional 14 category winners from across the construction industry in Northern Ireland for excellence in general construction, housing, infrastructure and quality assurance.

Congratulating the overall winners, CEF Managing Director John Armstrong said: “O’Hare & McGovern’s work in delivering this wonderful new building is an excellent example of how our local construction industry is pivotal to the development of so many important projects across a wide range of sectors in Northern Ireland each year.

“This particular project will benefit thousands of patients in the years to come, supporting the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine in its mission to develop new avenues for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of important

Pictured at the awards ceremony are, from left to right: Eamon O’Hare, O’Hare & McGovern; Dame Mary Peters, Guest Speaker; Seannie O’Hara, O’Hare & McGovern ; Rhona Quinn, President CEF and Damien Toner, Director if Estates at Queens University Belfast.

ophthalmic and vascular diseases to relieve human suffering.”

Mr Armstrong also commended each of the 14 category award winners for their success against what he described as a ‘challenging backdrop’ for the construction industry in Northern Ireland.

“The local construction sector is undoubtedly in a stronger position than it was at its lowest point a couple of years ago, but there remain significant headwinds that confront the industry – not least the continuing political malaise at Stormont, alongside insufficient investment in public infrastructure in Northern Ireland.

“Despite these challenges, however, our local construction industry continues to deliver exceptionally high-quality work both at home and abroad, as demonstrated so well by each of our shortlisted finalists and category award winners this evening.”

The Construction Excellence

Awards have been running for 16 years now and recognise the industry’s contribution to society in providing clean water, new roads, new homes, modern hospitals, fit-forpurpose schools and places to shop, work, worship and socialise.

The Awards also celebrate the preservation of Northern Ireland’s built heritage and the efforts of construction companies across the province to protect their workers, the environment and jobs.

CEF/Specify awards

Who was there...

Dame Mary Peters, Rhona Quinn and John Armstrong

Margaret Maynes, Dame Mary Peters, Anna Lo, Rhona Quinn and Philippa McIntyre

James and Gladys Greer of Specify magazine with CEF MD John Armstrong.

Siobhan Kissward, Specify and Sonia Armstrong, Ulster Business

Gary Boorman, Carol Gibson and Gordon McMullan, of Henry Brothers

Vicki McClellend and David Jameson, with David Jameson Roofing

John McGerty, Ian Fisher, Maria Bradley and Simon Gibson, of Gilbert Ash

Robert Montgomery of NHBC with Ricky Morrow of Vaughan Developments

Susan Simpson, James Greer, Philippa McIntyre, Gladys Greer and Siobhan Kissward

Tom Stokes, TSA Planning; Bryan Vaughan, Vaughan Homes; Stuart Murphy, Carson McDowell; and Neil Matthews of Neil Matthews Architects

Robbie Sholdis, Gareth McClay, Charlotte Rafferty, Paul McClay and Ben Snoddon, of Viewpoint Developments

Judges Neil Dunlop, NI Chairman of RTPI, and Stephen Hamilton, with Anna Lo.

CEF/Specify awards

Colin Hutchinson, Gareth Kerr and Billy Millar, of Transport NI

David Porter, Rivers Agency; Gerry Millar, Belfast City Council; Steven Caldwell, Tennants Bitumen; and Kevin McShane, CIG NI

Rachel Santannawar and Terry Waugh, of Action Renewables

David Hamilton, Alastair Martin and Leslie Adair

Scott McVey, Constructo Line; Jonathan Hayes, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council; and Jonathan Parry, of Faithful+Gould.

Tamara McFerran, Graeme Irwin and Jodie Quinn, of Lagan Construction Group

Celine Treanor, Ray Hutchinson and Kim Alexander, of Gilbert Ash

Stephen Clayton, Ciara McVeigh and Chris Russell

Les McCracken, Hugh Black and Gary Purdy, McCue Crafted Fit

Mark Gilmore, CIOB; Dame Mary Peters; CEF President Rhona Quinn; and RSUA President Martin O’Hare

Glen Campbell, Wendy Beatty and John Webster

Eliza Harvey and Mervyn Watley of NI Science Park, with Shanna Young of Herron Brothers

David Hamilton, Alastair Martin, Leslie Adair and Brendan Smyth

Kelly Devlin, Judith Armstrong and Seamus Kane

CEF/Specify awards

Jim Addy, Margaret Maines and Joe Jepson

David Sterling and Des Armstrong

John Armstrong and Wesley Shannon

David Fry, Anna Lo and Katie Lindsay

Jonathan Caughey CEF and Trevor Clarke MLA

Terry Waugh, Rachel Sankannawar

Jonathan Park, Scott McVey and Jonathan Hayes

Shana Young, Mervyn Watley and Eliza Harvey

Sandra Overend, Rhona Quinn and John Armstrong

David Sterling, Rhona Quinn, Brett Hannam and Des Armstrong

Leslie Loughlin, Seamus Cullen and Julieeanne O’Neill

Gerry Kelly, Andrew Corbett, Roisin Donnelly and John Savage

CEF/Specify awards

Overall Winner

Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine (O’Hare & McGovern)

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’Hare & McGovern was announced as the ‘Overall Winner’ of the Construction Excellence Awards 2015.

The award was presented to the construction firm by guest of honour, Dame Mary Peters, in recognition of its work on Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine at Queens University Belfast. CEM itself is a new four-storey concrete framed Medical Research building that was built on the Queens Institute of Health Sciences Campus on Jubilee Rd, where several dedicated, high quality research centres focused on cancer, infectious disease, public health and population genetics are already based.

Congratulating the overall winners, CEF Managing Director John Armstrong said: “O’Hare & McGovern’s work in delivering this wonderful new building is an excellent example of how our local construction industry is pivotal to the development of so many important projects across a wide range of sectors in Northern Ireland each year.

“This particular project will benefit thousands of patients in the years to come.”

Seanie O’Hare (O’Hare & McGovern), Mary Peters, Conor Kilgallen (Queen’s University), Raymonde Nathan (JLT)

Winners...

Overall Award

O’Hare & McGovern

Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine

COMPANY

AWARD

PROJECT

H & J Martin

Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award

Mount Stewart

Heron Bros.

Commercial Construction Award

North West Regional Science Park

Martin & Hamilton

Fit Out Award

Fit-Out of Great Hall at Galgorm Resort & Spa

H & J Martin

Restoration Award

Mount Stewart

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering

Social/Community Construction Award

Omagh Community Fire Station & District Headquarters

Hagan Homes

Private Housing Award

Linen Lane

Donaghmore Construction

Social Housing Award

Lime Court, Peter’s Hill

McLaughlin & Harvey

GB & Republic of Ireland Construction Award

A82 Pulpit Rock Realignment

Lagan Construction Group

Transport Infrastructure Award

A8 Belfast to Larne Dual Carriageway

O’Hare & McGovern

Health & Education Infrastructure Award

Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine

Lagan Construction Group

Utilities Infrastructure Award

Gravity II - McVeighs Well to Old Park SR

Gilbert-Ash

Environmental Sustainability Award

Lagan Construction Group

Training Award

Henry Brothers (Magherafelt)

Health & Safety Award

Gilbert-Ash

Exporting Award

CEF/Specify awards

Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award Mount Stewart (H & J Martin)

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estoring the 18th Century Mount Stewart involved important and vital conservation work to the Grade A listed house. H&J Martin repaired serious structural defects throughout the property by way of calculated design ingenuity and the use of limited intrusive measures to minimise disturbance to historic features and finishes, all whilst upgrading vital Mechanical and Electrical installations. H&J Martin’s management team worked meticulously with specialist conservators from the National Trust as well as dedicated Design Team members throughout the refurbishment of the building.

With Mount Stewart remaining open to the public, health and safety and logistics were always a key concern and one of valued importance. H&J Martin also had to consider the priceless artefacts and coordinate every aspect of works with the specialists of the National Trust to ensure the contents of each room were properly catalogued, protected, packed and delivered safely to a temperature controlled point of storage.

Additional works were undertaken externally to the listed paving on the south terrace as well as replacement of roof lights and installation of a new fall arrest system to the main roof.

Achieving Excellence in Partnering – Derek Martin (H&J Martin), Rhona Quinn, Kellyann Smith (Mount Stewart), Gareth Johnston (CPD)

Commercial Construction Award North West Regional Science Park (Heron Bros.)

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eron Bros Ltd (HBL) constructed North West Regional Science Park (NWRSP) providing 50,000 sq. ft. over 4 floors of flexible workspace on a brownfield site on the banks of the Foyle. NWRSP anchors the work of the Science Park cementing the cross-border partnership with the Letterkenny Institute of Technology and University of Ulster at Magee which will continue to deliver into the future for the region. The success of this cross border partnership was acknowledged by winning a certificate of Special Achievement in Cross border Cooperation at the ‘Sail of Papenburg’ Awards. Achieving this prestigious award shows the substantial investment this project brings to the North West of Ireland meeting the high tech demand of end users in this area.

HBL realised early on the potential of this landmark project and the significant contribution it brings to the North West. From this they continually strived to improve the end-users overall experience providing facilities for multi gigabit fibre optic broadband to attract and encourage a diverse range of tenants to these high tech, super-connected premises.

To ensure Client engagement and satisfaction HBL involved the client at every level from daily discussions through to Director level engagement for strategic project review meetings. From these meetings HBL were able to mitigate any concerns the client may have regarding budget and programme as well as incorporating additional elements into the design of the building within the original budget through Value Engineering. HBL’s ability to achieve additional works at no extra cost to the client is testament in itself of HBL’s continual commitment to achieve client satisfaction with the purpose and end users at the forefront of all decisions. Additionally, we engaged with local students studying construction courses with on-site engineering practicals provided by our Site Engineer.

HBL held pre-contract design meetings to ascertain buildability solutions, establishing additional steelwork was required for the stone clad façade. Our Design Manager identified Value Engineering solutions for alternative Rainscreen cladding to allow for the additional steelwork within the initial budget.

Eugene McAneney (Heron Bros.), Rhona Quinn, Jim Addy (JLT)

CEF/Specify awards

Overall Fit Out Award Winner

Fit-Out of Great Hall Wellcome-Wolison Institute at Galgorm for Experimental Resort & SpaMedicine (O’Hare & Hamilton) (Martin McGovern)

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he project centred on the specialist fit-out of Galgorm Resort & Spa’s Great Hall, which is recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s premier wedding venues.

Work consisted of the construction of an extension to the first floor comprising a new entrance lobby, ladies toilets, and an external reception area. Internally the existing first floor area was refurbished to a new configured layout complete with upgraded mechanical and electrical services, new bars, wash rooms, flooring and wall finishes, etc.

The project was successfully completed on time and within budget as a result of a particularly high standard of contract management and workmanship.

With the benefit of the experience of other fit-out projects, Martin & Hamilton proposed buildability and value engineering initiatives. Their proposals were welcomed by the client’s representatives to enhance the original design.

A particularly high standard of specification was required. For example Grigio Carnico and Bianco Venato Italian marble was imported for use in the wash rooms, champagne bar, skirting and wall cladding.

Everything was procured using only the best of products. For example the chandeliers were imported from central Europe.

Martin & Hamilton used their quality management system to check materials and workmanship to ensure a high standard of finish throughout.

Alistair Martin, Gerard Graham, David Hamilton, Rhona Quinn, Jim Shepherd, Dominic McTague and David McAdoo, Martin & Hamilton

Restoration Award Mount Stewart (H & J Martin)

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estoring the 18th Century Mount Stewart involved important and vital conservation work to the Grade A listed house. H&J Martin repaired serious structural defects throughout the property by way of calculated design ingenuity and the use of limited intrusive measures to minimise disturbance to historic features and finishes, all whilst upgrading vital Mechanical and Electrical installations. H&J Martin’s management team worked meticulously with specialist conservators from the National Trust as well as dedicated Design Team members throughout the refurbishment of the building.

With Mount Stewart remaining open to the public, health and safety and logistics were always a key concern and one of valued importance. H&J Martin also had to consider the priceless artefacts and coordinate every aspect of works with the specialists of the National Trust to ensure the contents of each room were properly catalogued, protected, packed and delivered safely to a temperature controlled point of storage.

Additional works were undertaken externally to the listed paving on the south terrace as well as replacement of roof lights and installation of a new fall arrest system to the main roof.

Maurice Ferguson (H&J Martin), Rhona Quinn and Brendan Smyth (CPD)

CEF/Specify awards

Social/Community Construction Award

Omagh Community Fire Station & District Headquarters (Lowry Building & Civil Engineering)

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he new Omagh Community Fire Station and District Headquarters, the first of a prototype design by HLM Architects, houses a six fire-fighting appliance bay, community fire safety centre, bespoke training tower, transport and engineering workshop, road traffic collision and animal rescue facilities, plus the key operational district hub.

Consultation design workshops with male and female firefighters addressed gender considerations to produce accommodation for staff and public together and which has received a William Keown Trust Accessibility Award.

With provision to engage and educate the public this visionary concept attracted 2500 visitors to an Open Day, and interest from South West College Industrial Advisory Board.

Commendations came from both NIFRS Board Chairman and NI’s Health Minister for successful delivery of the flagship project which has won both RICS and FMB Master Builder of the Year awards. Close client engagement through regular progress meetings allowed Lowry’s Project Team to accommodate all design variations and client requirements and still deliver an impressive build within budget and accelerated programme.

This project was technically challenging, both by design and intense completion programme. After assessing the integrity of initial works by the previous contractor and rectifiying irregularities indentified, our Project Team worked tirelessly with the client team throughout the construction phase to achieve quality completion. The futuristic design incorporated curved and asymmetric structural steel fabrication enclosed by red Kalzip roofing system and extensive coloured glass façade, and utilises innovative technologies like Hormann sectional automatic appliance bay doors and Geargrid uniform drying system.

Our experienced management team carefully assembled and coordinated a competent supply chain to deliver the project, salvaging several supply & sub-contractor appointments from the original contract, and partnering South West College to provide placement for construction degree students.

A commendable Health & Safety record was maintained over the contract duration with stringent supervision by our Company H&S Officer to manage the extensive team of Lowry and supply chain personnel executing varied construction trades. The intense accelerated programme required careful coordination of the entire team to achieve zero-incident completion.

Private Housing Award Linen Lane (Hagan Homes)

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he Mall”, which is nearing completion, marks the penultimate phase of the successful Linen Lane development located at the southern edge of Bangor.

Recognising that simply replicating the existing built form prevalent in the surrounding area would avoid controversy and delay, Hagan Homes nevertheless rejected that simplistic (and lazy) design approach. From the outset of this exciting development Hagan Homes has worked to create a vibrant, stimulating and memorable environment in which to live and visit; one that takes into account the characteristics of the site and its setting.

The central feature of “The Mall” is the large rectangular area of formal open space and the housing that encloses that space on all sides. “The Mall” is indisputably the focal point of “Linen Lane” and is fundamental to creating a true sense of place with memorable character.

This sense of place is reinforced through the use of architecture of a distinctive scale and mass consistent with the open space. The use of 3 storey terraced units with focal buildings turning the corners at key junctions not only help to enclose the space and make it user friendly but also creates a well-defined space with memorable character. The use of coloured render as a finish helps to create a vibrant and interesting environment in which to live.

Karl Ruddle, HLM Architects, Ian Lowry, Lowry Building & Civil Engineering and Sean Fitzsimons, NIFRS Capital Projects Manager

CEF/Specify awards

Overall Social Housing Winner Award

Lime Court, Peter’s Hill Wellcome-Wolison Institute for Experimental Medicine (O’Hare & McGovern) (Donaghmore Construction)

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his development at Lime Court aimed to provide high-specification supported living for people with a range of disability needs. It comprised 13 Lifetime Homes and Code for Sustainable Homescompliant apartments on a greenfield site within the occupied Lime Court complex.

The development, comprising supported living apartments, was constructed with a view to meeting the following objectives: • To resettle long term patients from Muckamore Abbey Hospital in accordance with the Bamford Report; • To allow residents with learning difficulties to live independent lives within the community whilst having suitable on-site support to meet their care needs; • To minimise running costs (through integration of low-energy, sustainable technologies and smart eco-design, avoiding issues like thermal bridging and maximising solar exposure and shading – concepts synonymous with ‘passive house’); • Ease of use and future adaptability; Enhanced Living - the development includes communal and reflection areas, shared outdoor space, parking facilities and security in a volatile geographic setting Delivery for the end-user was at the heart of this project. DCL, Oaklee Homes and the design team worked closely with residents to understand and fully meet their needs. DCL, its supply chain, Oaklee and the design team also adopted an ‘open communication’ approach amongst themselves: • Enabling sharing of innovation; • Effective change-management and expedited problem resolution; & • High quality, on time/budget delivery.

The site is located on the periphery of the peace line on Peter’s Hill, which posed particular complexities during August 2013. The presence of a clear physical barrier separating protestant and catholic communities served as a magnet for well-documented civil unrest. Throughout the contentious marching season, DCL prepared (in conjunction with interested parties) a Stakeholder Engagement Plan for Lime Court. The Plan included mechanisms for engagement with the local community.

Kelly Devlin (Lime Court Manager, NIAMH Wellbeing), Judith Armstrong (Bid Manager, Donaghmore Construction Ltd), Denis Crawford (Crawford Dugan Partnership), Heather Burton (Director, Donaghmore Construction Ltd), Mark Currie (Managing Director, Donaghmore Construction Ltd), Lenka Currie, Martin McKernan (Martin McKernan Chartered Architect) & Ryan Burton

GB & Republic of Ireland Construction Award A82 Pulpit Rock Realignment (McLaughlin & Harvey)

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he A82 Pulpit Rock Improvement Scheme involved widening 400m of the A82 adjacent to Loch Lomond where a road slippage had constrained the road to a single lane under traffic light control for 30 years. The scheme removed a ‘bottleneck’ for traffic around a tight headland on the main trunk road from Glasgow to the West of Scotland and the Scottish Highlands. This project included a six span, 175m long ‘s’ shaped viaduct bridge structure, 200m of 30m high slope/rock cut & stabilisation and 0.5km of road realignment. Transport Scotland developed a specimen design at a preliminary stage. This consisted of a curved deck of twin steel box girders, supported on twin piers and traditional pile-caps below water level. The construction methodology for this would have required a 14 week road closure, deep excavations adjacent to an existing railway and construction of cofferdams in the environmentally sensitive loch. The closure would have greatly affected the local economy, which is heavily tourism dependent, due to a 60km diversion route.

McLaughlin & Harvey receiving award along with Rhona Quinn and Brett Hannam, SIB

CEF/Specify awards

Transport Infrastructure Award

A8 Belfast to Larne Dual Carriageway (Lagan Construction Group)

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his project, undertaken on behalf of Northern Ireland’s Department for Regional development’s Transport NI, involved designing and converting 14.5 km of the A-road into dial carriageway between Coleman’s Corner Roundabout and the B100 Ballyrickard Road.

This is a significant highway infrastructure scheme for Northern Ireland that required considerable innovative technical engineering and environmental solutions.

• First NI road project to use Northern Ireland Roads Service Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) scheme.

• Established new exemplar approaches in watercourse management and archaeology which have set new standards for schemes in Northern Ireland.

• Delivered innovative solutions including use of a full width pavement spreader, archaeology trial trenching and BGC gas pipeline diversions.

• High environmental awareness and liaison with public delivered a successful project on time and within budget.

Representatives of Lagan Construction receiving their award

Health & Education Infrastructure Award

Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine (O’Hare & McGovern)

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’Hare & McGovern were appointed as the main contractor for Queens University Belfast (QUB) £32 million Centre for Experimental Medicine (CEM), supporting 400 jobs in the construction sector.

CEM itself is a new four-storey concrete framed Medical Research building that was built on the Queens Institute of Health Sciences Campus on Jubilee Rd, where several dedicated, high quality research centres focused on cancer, infectious disease, public health and population genetics are already based. Indeed, the external wall of the neighbouring Cancer Research building forms part of CEM’s Atrium, which behaves as the centre of gravity for the scheme, and creates a unique and dynamic area between the two buildings. The atrium has excellent visual links across both buildings with high degrees of transparency celebrating the science that occurs within the building, thus stimulating innovation and social interaction amongst staff.

The clear visibility and quality of the transparency through the buildings have been strategically created to organise the major building services around the perimeter of the building, thus removing them from the central core. This approach also enables total adaptability in future layouts for the building with major servicing external to the labs. The whole building is unified by a simple palette of three materials. Sophisticated and refined glazing for the main body of labs harmonizes against a robust charcoal base to provide grounding, and a lightweight aluminium louvre system for roof top plant areas.

A Building Information Model (BIM) was used in a collaborative process between all parties to find solutions to buildability issues. The implementation of BIM aided dynamic design and embedment of product and asset data. Complementary workflows and processes allowed the various construction professionals/project participants real-time access to the centralised virtual model, which was used to perform individual functions such as analysis, design development, coordination, sequencing and early contractor engagement.

Seanie O’Hare (O’Hare & McGovern), Rhona Quinn, Philip Irwin (Department of Education)

CEF/Specify awards

Overall Utilities Infrastructure Winner Award

Gravity II - McVeighs Wellcome-Wolison Institute Well to for OldExperimental Park SR Medicine (O’HareConstruction (Lagan & McGovern) Group)

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ravity II involved a major mains rehabilitation project within a densely populated urban environment in Belfast City where pipeline was installed through 30+ gardens, 2 golf courses, motorway, woodlands, a primary school, Belfast Castle and Cavehill County Park.

CCTV probing identified the condition of an existing pipeline which, when commissioned in 1967, survived only 15 years. Gravity II brought this pipe back to life and enabled NIW to use an asset capable of delivering 32 million litres of water per day to North Belfast. The CCTV determined that the host pipe had a number of engineering constraints requiring solutions to allow the new pipe to be put in.

Key Facts: • 5.1km of 710mm HPPE installed by non-intrusive slip-lining with ‘in-hole’ butt welding and directional drilling through 33’’ pre-stresssed concrete • Excavations were in close proximity to residential properties <5m away and up to 5m deep in some cases.

• Specialized acoustic equipment and structural engineers were employed to give baseline information regarding residential properties and to monitor levels of noise and potential subsidence during and after the work had taken place.

Representatives of Lagan Construction receiving their award

Environmental Sustainability (Gilbert-Ash)

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ilbert-Ash is an award-winning UK construction and fit-out contractor. The company works throughout the UK and has undertaken numerous projects worldwide in locations including Poland, Bahrain, China, Japan and Australia. The UK business is serviced through offices in London and Belfast.

Gilbert-Ash is proud to be based in Belfast but at present 99 per cent of its work comes from outside Northern Ireland.

Gilbert-Ash recognises its responsibility to design and construct efficient buildings in a responsible manner, to protect the natural environment and to have a positive social and economic impact on the communities in which it works.

To support this goal the company has developed a sustainability strategy which incorporates the following principles: • Ethical Business • Employees & Workforce • Building Relations through Social Value • Health, Safety & Environment Gilbert-Ash publicly reports its environmental sustainability performance, which includes the company’s approach to resource efficiency. In 2014 Gilbert-Ash achieved a 91% diversion from landfill rate by integrating the government waste hierarchy into the operations. It is also registered to the BRE’s online tool, Smartwaste.

Site Waste Management Plan training has been delivered to all site personnel and implemented on 100% of the company’s projects. A high profile example of this can be seen at the Stirling Prize award winning Everyman Theatre, a new-build project that maintained many of its original features through the use of recycled materials and exposed brick. 26,000 red bricks where reused in the construction of this project. At another of the company’s flagship projects, Ravenhill Stadium, the team organised a Grandstand seat sale, with the seats auctioned off to raise money for charity.

John McGerty (Gilbert-Ash), Rhona Quinn, Wesley Shannon (NIEA)

CEF/Specify awards

Training Award (Lagan Construction Group)

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he Lagan Construction Group is a major force in international construction and infrastructure schemes offering clients a single strong base of pooled talent and expertise in the domestic and overseas civil engineering and building markets.

Their specialist teams have proven expertise and experience in delivering projects across a range of sectors including roads, airports, water, energy, marine and building.

They also provide specialist piling and foundation solutions for all civil engineering and building requirements. They also provide infrastructure investment advice and support, whole life cost solutions including operation and maintenance of projects.

Lagan Construction Group are proud of their culture and values which are at the heart of the company and set the standard for how they behave.

The employees of Lagan Construction Group are its greatest asset and all employees receive on average 4 days training per year. There are a number of opportunities to learn every day and development takes place in many forms. Practical, experiential and on-the-job learning is key, especially when combined with coaching and feedback from a more experienced person. Our HR and Training team work with our line managers to identify the learning needs of all our staff.

Jodie Quinn (Lagan Construction), Rhona Quinn, Barry Neilson (CITB)

Health & Safety Award (Henry Brothers (Magherafelt)

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enry Brothers continues to be at the forefront for setting Health and Safety standards within the Northern Ireland construction industry. It is part of our sustainable construction philosophy and is central to all our business planning.

Our commitment to high standards has resulted in a reduction of 50% in RIDDOR accidents in the last year compared to the previous year whilst the number of days lost per employee due to short term sickness absence has also reduced by 48%. As a direct result of our Health and Safety culture the company is in the position to negotiate insurance premiums at each renewal date.

Health and safety is an integral part of our everyday business management. During 2014 our senior management increased the number of hours spent carrying out health and safety tours as part of our Leaders in Construction initiative by 18% compared to the previous year. This led to a decrease in the number of unsafe acts observed by 16%. Further evidence of successful integration of health and safety within the business came with the recent award of silver and bronze awards for two of our Northern Ireland sites as part of the Considerate Contractors Scheme as well as being one of the first Northern Ireland Companies to be awarded the Business in the Community CORE Standard. Both Schemes assess

the integration of health and safety into everyday business activities.

Our high health and safety standards have been recognised nationally as we were the only Northern Ireland Company to obtain a Distinction in the British Safety Council International Health and Safety Awards in 2014.

We strive to continually improve our health and safety performance by using trend analysis and KPI’s to review areas such as accident data, effectiveness of our site audits and the performance of individual projects and managers.

Our SHEQ Department has increased the number of health and safety inspections of our construction sites by 28% in 2014 compared to the previous year.

Despite the current challenging economic climate, we continue to invest heavily in health and safety, not only to ensure compliance with our statutory and moral duties but to ensure that we have a competent safety conscious workforce ready to undertake projects for any client throughout the United Kingdom.

As a founding member of BuildHealth and working with MCP, our occupational health provider, we undertook a review of our occupational health provision. This has resulted in a more structured approach in managing occupational health and a significant increase in the level of provision we now provide.

Mary Peters, David Wallace, SHEQ Director, Carol Gibson (H&S administration) Gary Boorman (H&S advisor) and Gordon McMullan (contracts Manager)

CEF/Specify awards

Exporting Overall Award Winner (Gilbert-Ash) Wellcome-Wolison Institute for Experimental Medicine (O’Hare & McGovern)

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ilbert-Ash is an award-winning UK construction and fit-out contractor. The company works throughout the UK and has undertaken numerous projects worldwide in locations including Poland, Bahrain, China, Japan and Australia. The UK business is serviced through offices in London and Belfast.

In 2013 Gilbert-Ash took the strategic decision to proactively grow its business outside Northern Ireland. The company turnover at this time was split 20% in Northern Ireland, 70% in GB and 10% in international markets.

The first step was to put a comprehensive business improvement programme in place to make sure any future growth would be sustainable over the long term. This involved re-evaluating and improving every department and function within the business, from construction to commercial.

A proactive export strategy followed which involved a brand refresh and the repositioning of the company to reflect the high calibre of projects that had been completed, many of which have been deemed world class with two Stirling Prize shortlisted projects and one winner.

In GB Gilbert-Ash has focused on niche sectors - Landmark buildings, Arts & Culture and Science & Technology. By doing so, in the last 18 months the team has won contracts worth £160 million to deliver the National Army Museum, Bartlett School of Architecture, Institution of Engineering & Technology, Centre of Excellence for Fetal Medicine at King’s College Hospital, 5G Innovation Centre (World First), Battersea Arts Centre, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

In international markets the company has focused on developing a long-standing relationship with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and won projects at the British Consulate in Dusseldorf and the British Embassy in Sri Lanka. As a result Gilbert-Ash is fast establishing a niche for Embassy work and has recently completed work for the Polish & US Embassies in London.

Gilbert-Ash receiving their award along with David Sterling (DFP) and Rhona Quinn

30| Galgorm Resort & Spa

Galgorm Resort & Spa |31

martin & hamilton complete £8m extension to Galgorm Resort & Spa N

orthern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel, Galgorm Resort & Spa is the perfect location to relax and get away from it all. Set within 163 acres of lush parkland with the spectacular River Maine flowing through the estate, the hotel has a truly unique setting. Close to both Belfast airports and the stunning scenery of the North Antrim Coast, it is the perfect base from which to explore the region’s most renowned attractions.

Now, a new sumptuous four storey extension, consisting of 45 deluxe guest rooms, three luxurious suites and a new state-of-the-art spa has just been unveiled as part of an £8m upgrade at Galgorm Resort & Spa. The 18 month project, both technically and logistically challenging, involved the construction of a four storey extension to the hotel along with a new indoor swimming pool, associated spa facilities and outdoor thermal spa village – the first of its kind in the UK and Ireland. This major project by martin & hamilton was completed while the hotel remained fully operational with minimal disturbance to the guests and staff.

32| Galgorm Resort & Spa

“Working within the confines of a fully operational award-winning hotel estate presented challenges. Critically we needed to ensure that at all times the hotel residents would not be disrupted.”

The ultimate in luxury and tranquility, facilities in the new extension include: • 45 deluxe guest rooms, each with a spacious marble bathroom along with separate bath and shower.

• Signature luxurious suite boasting 122m² of indoor and outdoor space and includes a furnished terrace complete with private hot tub overlooking the River Maine.

• Two luxurious and spacious suites (each 77m²) on the 4th and 5th floors complete with wraparound balconies and river frontage.

• 20m indoor leisure pool surrounded by a polished pebble floor.

• Relax Orangery which includes bespoke crafted relax beds and swing chairs as a ‘chill out area’.

• Snow cabin complete with powder snow and ice crystals, which is maintained at a chilly -7 to -15°C. • Sanarium which offers a comfortable and relaxing heated experience.

• Elements Spa Café.

• Changing rooms, reception, kitchen, plant and store rooms, as well as three main corridors and a lift.

With the interior receiving such lavish attention, the exterior was also brought up to the same high exacting standards. These works included: • An outdoor thermal spa village complete with wood-fired ecofriendly riverside tubs, yoga studio on

Galgorm Resort & Spa |33

34| Galgorm Resort & Spa

raised stilts, sauna, steam room, relax area, cabins and showers.

• Manicured landscaping including lawn, trees, shrubs, bedding and Turfstone permeable pavement.

• Retaining and decorative walls as well as kerbing and paving.

Commenting on the project, David Hamilton, Managing Director at martin & hamilton said: “Working within the confines of a fully operational award-winning hotel estate presented challenges. Critically we needed to ensure that at all times the hotel residents would not be disrupted as a result of the construction work and never feel that they were on a construction site. As a result of stringent site management and close co-operation with the hotel’s management staff, this was successfully achieved.”

Building Structure and High Standard of Finishes This major high-profile project involved site clearance along with enabling works before the main construction programme even commenced. The substructure is comprised of reinforced pad foundations and floor slabs while the superstructure is based on reinforced insitu concrete beams and columns for the gym facilities and changing rooms. The new bedroom block is based on a partial steel frame structure with precast concrete floors and stairs.

The building includes flat roofs, slate roofs, and a timber double-glazed lantern roof-light. The elevations comprise blockwork walls and traditional plaster, rubbed up and painted. The ground floor includes glazed curtain walling and external feature facing brick.

The changing rooms boast Italian ceramic and mosaic tiles. A Promat moisture resistant ceiling and wall lining system was used as it is a high humidity environment. A full complement of changing room facilities including wash-hand basins, vanity units, WCs and individual changing booths were included.

An existing link corridor and female changing rooms were also refurbished in an accelerated timeframe, complete with Armourcoat plaster finish.

No attention to detail was overlooked in the new bedrooms. Handcrafted solid oak joinery and Italian marble are just two examples of the quality of finishes involved.

36| Galgorm Resort & Spa Construction Project Management Clear communication and leadership from the team at martin & hamilton helped contribute to the success of the project. Initiatives introduced included: • Reporting methods and hierarchies were in place from the first preconstruction meeting.

• Documented site meetings were held monthly with additional technical meetings as required. ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001 accredited procedures were also used throughout.

• The Contracts Manager co-ordinated any changes and diligently issued and monitored requests for information to ensure lead times with supply chain companies could be met.

• The Contracts Manager put a lot of focus on adhering to the critical path in the programme to ensure activities were completed when required.

Building Services JBE Mechanical Electrical was appointed early in the project as integrated ISO 9001, GasSafe and NIEIC accredited M&E subcontractor.

They were the full mechanical and electrical engineers and contractors for the project. martin & hamilton liaised closely with them right from the start and worked collaboratively throughout to ensure all the new equipment was tested and commissioned as early as possible.

A key challenge was the integration of new building services with the existing hotel whilst ensuring no impact on the end user. As the project involved high specification M&E requirements, martin & hamilton introduced subcontractor specific programmes for these two trades which helped to

identify the key milestones and ensure a successful outcome.

ROOFING Laverty Contract Roofing, specialists in the restoration of historic buildings, was the subcontractor for the slates, tiles and leadwork for the project.

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38| Galgorm Resort & Spa

PRECAST Acheson & Glover Precast Ltd (AG) supplied and installed concrete hollowcore floors to ground, first, second and roof levels, as well as precast concrete stairs to the main stairwell and external stairs.

AG design, manufacture, deliver and install a wide range of prestressed flooring and precast stairs for the Northern Ireland and wider UK markets to meet the needs of both commercial and domestic construction markets.

They had a lot of input into the project to ensure that this product supplied was best suited to the exacting requirements of the client. AG have many years’ experience of meeting the needs of customers, and this project illustrated how they can design solutions to provide best value without compromising product quality or service.

AG prestressed concrete floors have an excellent span to weight ratio suitable for a broad range of construction types, and are commonly used with steel, masonry or concrete beam supports in a variety of residential and commercial applications. Being fast to install, they help contractors to meet demanding construction programmes and provide an immediate working platform.

With the ability to make customised stair moulds, AG can accommodate a wide variety of staircase configurations and designs, manufactured off-site to suit virtually any application, and when fitted allow safe easy access to following trades.

Handover The project was completed on time, within budget and with zero defects. All sustainability targets including health & safety objectives were achieved. On handover David Hamilton, Managing Director at martin & hamilton commented: “Overall, we are delighted with the end result. The architect, project management consultant, design consultants, key supply chain members as well as our own staff all contributed to creating a team atmosphere which helped ensure the project was a success. The attention to detail shown by the craftsmen that worked on the project is clear for all to see.”

Live Hotel Environment martin & hamilton proposed a construction process that ensured the hotel could remain fully operational throughout the project. They created a phased approach and agreed on communication channels with the client to ensure nuisance would be reduced and noise & dust minimised so the residents’ hotel experience would not be detracted. martin & hamilton also knew from the outset that events could be booked in the hotel at short notice which may have needed them to alter their programme. An example was during the initial phase when they hit rock and needed to break it out. In consultation with the hotel management they agreed a time to carry out this unavoidable noisy activity so as not to disrupt any hotel events. martin & hamilton’s Site Manager always ensured there were other non-noisy work that could be carried out at all stages so that personnel would never be idle.

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40| Galgorm Resort & Spa

martin & hamilton is an award-winning chartered building company.

For more information please visit www.martinandhamilton.com

42| ridgeway

Clever Cladding ...designed for the future • Low maintenance • Wide range of colours • Eco-friendly • Easy to install • Durable • Versatile

D

ura Cladding and Decking are produced from Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) which is manufactured by an extrusion process using a mix of recycled plastics and hardwood with various bespoke additives. WPC is an immensely versatile material which combines the traditional appearance of timber with the durability and resiliance of an engineered composite.

Dura Cladding and Decking look and feel like natural wood and its unique formula provides lightweight yet durable cladding and decking that will not splinter, warp or rot. Both products offer a fantastic 25 year design life and are available with a 10 year warranty for peace of mind.

Ridgeway as long established supply chain partners for global manufacturers for Ireland have vast experience in GRP products for industrial applications and have extended this expertise into WPC for architectural and landscaping applications to develop their focus on “Recycled” products. These new ranges of composite timber decking and cladding products are fully stocked in Belfast and offer excellent alternatives for clients, architects and contractors. Please contact a member of our sales team today, details are below.

T. 028 9045 4599

E. info@ridgeway-online.com

W. www.ridgeway-online.com

ridgeway |43

10 years Warranty

87% Recycled Materials

Colour Stable

Quick and Easy to Install

Exclusively by

T. 028 9045 4599

E. info@ridgeway-online.com

W. www.ridgeway-online.com

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

TAX UPDATE OCTOBER 2015 The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has received its monthly tax update from the Joint Taxation Committee (JTC) which is administered by Liz Bridge.

Full details of the October 2015 Tax Update are available on the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk

REDUCED ELECTRICITY CONNECTION CHARGE FOR HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has been advised

by Northern Ireland Electricity Networks of a reduction in the connection charge which has been approved by the Utility Regulator.

With effect from Saturday 10 October 2015, the Standard Connection Charge which applies to all new electrical connections carried out within housing developments of 12 units or more individually serviced dwellings, has decreased from £915 to £893 per dwelling.

Payments already posted and received by NIE on or prior to 10 October 2015 will be processed at the existing rate of £915 per dwelling.

Any questions relating to this decrease should be directed to Northern Ireland Electricity Networks on 03457 643 643.

MEDIA PROFILE FOR A CAREER IN CIVIL ENGINEERING As part of our push to secure more media coverage for the industry and the career opportunities it provides we secured coverage in both the Belfast Telegraph and Irish News in late September. The coverage focused on the career opportunity potential within civil engineering over the coming five years.

To see the coverage in full and view the articles, please visit the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk

CEF BRIEFS REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

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arly October saw the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) give evidence to the Regional Development Committee on the Water and Sewerage Bill. The Bill proposes a number of changes to current legislation to:

• allow the Department of Regional Development (DRD) to continue to pay subsidy to NI Water in place of domestic water charges until 31 March 2017, • combine the water resource management plan and drought management plan into one single plan, • enable the DRD to remove the requirement for NI Water to install water meters in domestic properties connecting to the public water supply for the first time, • extend NI Water power to adopt infrastructure, enter into adoption agreements to include sustainable drainage systems and require the construction of sustainable drainage systems as a condition of agreeing to adopt a drain or sewer, • introduce new restrictions to the right to connect surface water sewers to the public sewer network on the basis that there is suitable alternative means of dealing with the surface water or that such means could reasonably be provided, and • introduce the requirement to enter into a sewer adoption agreement as a condition of the right to connect private sewers to the public sewerage network and enabling NI Water to set standards to which private sewerage including sustainable drainage systems must be constructed and an appropriate security (i.e. bond).

CEF submitted a briefing paper in advance of appearing before the Committee. Oral evidence provided by CEF and representatives of the private housing committee focused on the high cost of bonds and the need to foster an environment that encourages house building.

The CEF response to the Committee for Regional Development briefing paper can be viewed on the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk

ENGAGEMENT WITH DRD ON INFRASTRUCTURE OPPORTUNITIES

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e were delighted to host an informal members’ dinner with the Department for Regional Development Permanent Secretary, Peter May, at the Federation office in October.

Key items discussed included the Department’s budget and infrastructure plans, the creation of a new Department of Infrastructure and sewer and water bonds.

Mr May has committed to a further dialogue on infrastructure planning for the next Northern Ireland Assembly mandate while specific issues of relevance to house builders will be taken up directly with Departmental officials.

The dinner was the first in a series of informal events with Departmental Permanent Secretaries which will take place over the coming months.

For further information please contact David Fry: davidf@cefni.co.uk or 028 9087 7143.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT WILLIAM J CLINTON LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AT QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

S

ince it was established in 2011, the William J Clinton Leadership Institute at Queen’s University has become a focal point for leadership development and executive education in by engaging with businesses and organisations in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors to create strong leaders and facilitate development. The Institute specialises in building leadership skills to drive growth and transform organisations.

It offers an evolving portfolio of open programmes and bespoke interventions with organisations to build leadership capacity at board level, senior management and high potential middle management across all sectors.

We are delighted that the Institute is pleased to offer CEF members a 10% preferential discount off all of their open programmes: Business Leaders; Emerging Leaders and; Leading Effective Boards.

For further information, and details on how to book visit the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk

UNCERTAIN OUTLOOK FOR NORTHERN IRELAND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

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ust over a third (34%) of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies are struggling to stabilise their business activities, while 16% are operating in survival mode, according to the latest quarterly survey from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and PwC. In contrast, the proportion with profitability or growth as their priority actually fell from 50% in Quarter 1 2015 to 38% in the following three months.

The latest quarterly survey of Northern Ireland’s construction companies shows that, in the three months to the end of June, only 19% of all the firms surveyed were operating at full capacity – down from 21% in the second quarter of 2014.

Key findings from the survey include: • 34% of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies say their main priority over the next 12 months is to stabilise their operations.

•14% have an objective of increasing profitability over the next 12 months.

•16% of all companies were operating at less than 50% capacity in the second quarter of 2015, marginally up from 14% in Q1 2015.

• 22% of all companies reported an increase in workload during Q2, down from 28% in the first three months of the year.

• 24% of all companies increased their employee numbers over the same period, with 19% reporting that their total employment numbers had declined.

Commenting on the survey, Dr Esmond Birnie, PwC’s chief economist in Northern Ireland said the survey results reflect other economic data which suggested that recovery is slowing: “These relatively downbeat data reflect the Ulster Bank Purchasing Managers Index for August, which shows declining levels of output, orders and employment.

“Putting the survey in context, since 2007, Northern Ireland’s construction industry has been the most severely impacted sector in terms of both output and employment.

“The impact of the financial crisis on the industry here was considerably worse than in GB; and, while local construction companies have won considerable volumes of new work in GB, the current level of output in Northern Ireland alone remains around 40% below the level experienced pre-2007.

Looking forward, there is no clear consensus of sector-wide optimism; a third (33%) of companies expect economic prospects in Northern Ireland to improve; a fifth (21%) of respondents expecting things to worsen, while 38% foresee no change.”

The CEF/PwC analysis suggests that a number of factors could account for the lack of confidence in the local industry, including the implications of recent budget difficulties facing the Northern Ireland Executive and the reduction in the roads maintenance budget.

Despite the indications of recovery in the NI housing market, where both prices and activity levels are rising, there is little evidence of a sustained bounce in private housing building.

The market remains fragile, largely because of the debt overhang from the boom in the mid-2000s.

CEF Managing Director John Armstrong also warned that workload and employment levels were being boosted by companies operating outside Northern Ireland: “There is increasing evidence of companies reporting increased

workload and employment, but where orders were being won in London, Manchester and other construction hotspots in GB where workers are commuting to work outside Northern Ireland.

“In 2014, we estimated that the largest local construction companies generated up to two-thirds of their turnover – over £1bn – outside Northern Ireland. But, as much of this evidence remains anecdotal, we have now expanded our quarterly survey to include work undertaken outside Northern Ireland – even where the workers are being paid in Northern Ireland.

“We will report on these findings in future surveys but, in the absence of major public and private contracts here in Northern Ireland, some of our biggest firms may find the GB market more buoyant and more profitable. That could mean that, if the local market returns, the construction companies, may not.

“Overall however, while the sector is in a stronger position than when it was at its lowest point after the banking crisis, confidence is lukewarm, output remains between half and two-thirds of the pre-2007 level and there are headwinds around the medium-term economic picture.

“Chief amongst these headwinds is the continuing political malaise at Stormont, where a breakdown of communication, trust and decisionmaking around the Executive table has left a huge sense of frustration

and anger within the construction industry.

“November’s Spending Review will set the Executive’s budget envelope for the next four years and the industry expects the outcome to prompt speedy decisions as to how the already developed pipeline of work will be delivered.

“This industry previously contributed around 7% of total regional GVA and was a leading employer, where one construction job contributed to support up to four downstream jobs across the economy, many in rural areas where other industry is sparse.

“We have the capacity, the skills and the determination to regain that position, but the current political impasse is simply not acceptable.

Confidence remains fragile, investors remain uncertain and our political leaders need to lead so we can deliver an agreed pipeline of work that will contribute to employment creation and economic regeneration.”

Oliver McAllister, PwC director and construction and real estate leader, says the CEF survey supports the wider contention that recovery is slowing: “Since the autumn of 2014 overall measures of business confidence have been mixed, but generally indicating that economic activity is growing more slowly than the UK average. Monthly unemployment figures are also suggestive of some loss of pace in the rate of improvement in the economy.”

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

MINIMUM RANGE INCREASE

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he National Minimum Wage rates are increasing with effect from Thursday 1 October 2015. The new rates are as follows: • £6.70 per hour for workers aged 21 years old and over • £5.30 per hour for workers aged 18 to 20 years old • £3.87 per hour for workers above school leaving age but under 18 years old • £2.73 for apprentices under the age of 19 years old or aged 19 years old or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Apprentice Minimum Wage Apprentices who are employed under the Working Rules Agreement should continue to be paid “Blue Book” rates unless these rates are below the new National Minimum Wage rate. Where the National Minimum Wage rate is above Joint Council rates the National Minimum Wage rate should be applied.

CONSUMER CODE FOR HOME BUILDERS UNDERGOING REVIEW

T

he Consumer Code for Home Builders was introduced in April 2010. It is an industry led code of conduct for builders, developed to make the home buying process fairer and more transparent for purchasers. The code applies to all housebuilders registered with the UK’s main new home warranty providers; NHBC, Premier Guarantee and LABC Warranty.

The Code’s Management Board has launched a wide ranging consultation to seek views on the overall scope, operation and impact of the Code. The consultation document can be viewed on the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk https://www.cefni.co.uk/CEFWebclient/FCKeditor/UserFiles/file/201509_ Consumer Code_Consultation Document.pdf

ANNUAL BENEFITS STATEMENTS

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nnual Benefit Statements for the Enhance Construction Pension Scheme, as at 5th April 2015, were posted to members at their home address during late September.

Employers are encouraged to remind employees that the level of contributions they make during their membership of the Scheme is a key factor in determining the value of their pension pot.

Increasing contributions as early as possible enables members to benefit from compound growth potential. It is important that members regularly review the level of contributions they make, to ensure they are on track to meet their retirement income expectations.

Financial planning tools and free sources of information, such as the Money Advice Service at www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk and The Pension Advisory Service at www.pensionadvisoryservice.org.uk, may help members decide on an appropriate level of contributions for their circumstances.

If your employees wish to contribute more than the minimum employee contribution they can simply complete an AVC Form which you, the employer, can then forward to the Scheme.

If you have any queries please contact the pensions team on 028 9087 7153.

POSITIVE ENGAGEMENT WITH EDUCATION OFFICIALS

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delegation of members met with Philip Irwin and Stephen Creagh from the Department of Education in September to discuss their procurement pipeline and budgetary plans.

Update documents on the current position were provided by the officials for members to note: • Major Capital Works • School Enhancement Programme For further detail please contact David Fry on davidf@cefni.co.uk or 028 9087 7143.

eTENDERSNI LANCHED AT CEF

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he new eTendersNI portal was officially launched at the Construction Employers Federation on the 3rd September 2015. Over thirty members heard from Gareth Johnston, the Central Procurement Directorate’s Divisional Director – Policy & Performance Division about the benefits the revised system will bring to the procurement process. eTendersNI is a new online tender system for public sector contracts being run by the Central Procurement Directorate (CPD). By using eTendersNI contractors will only have to answer core questions once, by completing a supplier profile certificate online, which will be retained by eTendersNI. Contractors can also be kept up to date on new tender opportunities, relevant to them, by registering for e-mail alerts.

Christine Davey from CPD also provided a practical overview presentation of the new system which can be viewed on the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk

CEF RESPONDS TO LATEST PROPOSED SOCIAL CLAUSES

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he Construction Employers Federation (CEF) issued its response on the 28th August, to the Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) regarding the most recent proposed changes to the requirements for contractors to provide opportunities for the unemployed in public sector contracts.

The most recent proposed changes to social clauses and the CEF response can be viewed on the CEF website www.cefni.co.uk.

Thank you to those members who provided input to the response.

UPDATE ON LATEST CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY FORUM (CIFNI) MEETING

Training & Events Programme NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2015 Month

Date

Duration

New CDM Regulations 2015

4 Nov

½ day

How to Write PQQs Masterclass

19 Nov

½ day

Quality Submissions: Substance & Style

19 Nov

½ day

Employment Law Update

24 Nov

2 hrs

Cross Border Taxation Issues

25 Nov

2 hrs

An Estimators Introduction to the NEC3

8 Dec

1 day

New CDM Regulations 2015

11 Dec

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers Refresher

6 Nov

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers

5 & 12 Nov

2 days

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

13 Nov

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Managers Refresher

10 Dec

½ day

Essential Health & Safety for Senior Executives

18 Dec

½ day

November

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number of key items were discussed and agreed at the quarterly meeting of the Construction Industry Forum (CIFNI) held on the 15th September.

Procurement pipeline • As members will know, a subgroup of CIFNI has been established to consider how best to draw together the outcomes of April’s Procurement Guidance Note on populating a pipeline of works that industry can have confidence in.

• That subgroup has now met and is seeking feedback on its initial pipeline – on which there is already agreement that the model is broadly right.

• The pipeline is on the SIB website – http://isni.gov.uk/publicDocs/pipeline.pdf – and the plan is to update it quarterly (the next update in December).

• If members have any comments then please forward to davidf@cefni.co.uk

Social clauses • Members have been previously consulted on proposed revisions to the social clauses model – now to be known as buysocialNI. • After taking on board industry concerns, particularly around extending the scope of those who can be taken on under social clauses, a pilot clauses model will now be taken forward by the Central Procurement Directorate (CPD).

• This pilot model will have more flexibility than before and it will be taken forward to the Procurement Board for sign off in November.

• It is the intention to imbed the revised model in the Northern Ireland Executive’s next Programme for Government.

• For a copy of the clauses model that will now be taken forward in pilot, please contact davidf@cefni.co.uk

Project Bank Accounts • After running 10 pilot Project Bank Accounts (PBA’s), CPD proposed extending these given their successful operation to date and, largely, positive feedback both from main contractors and subcontractors.

• It was agreed that, as of 1 January 2016, these will be rolled out to all construction works contracts that have an estimated value in excess of £2m and which contain a significant subcontracting element (ie first tier subcontractors whose subcontract has a value in excess of 1% of the main contract value).

• The CEF expressed the industry view that PBA’s should only be enforced for contracts over £10m. CPD agreed therefore to keep the level under review once the full roll out was in place.

Procurements over £30k and under EU Threshold • A proposal was put and agreed to for further simplification of the approach to procurements for construction works which have a value between £500k and £2m.

December

Health & Safety (CSR courses)

Please visit our Events Calendar at www.cefni.co.uk for further information on forthcoming courses/seminars.

We would be pleased to discuss any other management or professional training requirements you might have.

For further information phone 028 9087 7141 or e-mail cfs@cefni.co.uk

• The number of value bands will now reduce from three to two. This will mean that the simplest procedures, used in value band £30k to £500k, would now be extended to cover all works contracts from £30k to £2m.

• Contractor selection for all contracts up to £2m will now randomly select six contractors who meet the criteria. In addition, there will be no PreQualification Questionnaire requirement.

eTenders NI • After industry feedback which has suggested difficulties with more than one person in a company being able to work on a tender (while inside the eTenders system) at any one time, we have raised the issue with CPD. • While the view is that this is a formal requirement as a result of the design of the system, CPD has undertaken to look at producing more practical guidance on how the new system can be used.

• In addition, CPD noted that positive discussions have been taking place with the 11 local councils and that all will join the eTenders system in the near future.

• For further information on any of the above please contact David Fry on davidf@cefni.co.uk or 028 9087 7143.

The next meeting of CIFNI will take place on Friday 18 December 2015.

The Construction Employers Federation is responsible for supplying the editorial content of the CEF News section. The Federation does not purport to have any editorial input to the remainder of Specify magazine.

143 Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 6SU

•

Tel: 028 9087 7143

•

Fax: 028 9087 7155

•

www.cefni.co.uk

48|

digest

Negative equity and lack of infrastrcture hit industry A recent report published by the CEF and PwC shows that many of Northern Ireland’s construction companies are struggling in the current economic climate.

Just over a third (34%) of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies are struggling to stabilise their business activities, while 16% are operating in survival mode, according to the latest quarterly survey from the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and PwC. In contrast, the proportion with profitability or growth as their priority actually fell from 50% in Quarter 1 2015 to 38% in the following three months.

The latest quarterly survey of Northern Ireland’s construction companies shows that, in the three months to the end of June, only 19% of all the firms surveyed were operating at full capacity – down from 21% in the second quarter of 2014.

Key findings from the survey include: • 34% of Northern Ireland’s largest construction companies say their main priority over the next 12 months is to stabilise their operations • 14% have an objective of increasing profitability over the next 12 months.

• 16% of all companies were operating at less than 50% capacity in the second quarter of 2015, marginally up from 14% in Q1 2015.

• 22% of all companies reported an increase in workload during Q2, down from 28% in the first three months of the year.

• 24% of all companies increased their employee numbers over the same period, with 19% reporting that their total employment numbers had declined.

Commenting on the survey, Dr Esmond Birnie, PwC’s chief economist in Northern Ireland said the survey results reflect other economic data which suggested that recovery is slowing: “These relatively downbeat data reflect the Ulster Bank Purchasing Managers Index for August, which

shows declining levels of output, orders and employment.

“Putting the survey in context, since 2007, Northern Ireland’s construction industry has been the most severely impacted sector in terms of both output and employment.

“The impact of the financial crisis on the industry here was considerably worse than in GB; and, while local construction companies have won considerable volumes of new work in GB, the current level of output in Northern Ireland alone remains around 40% below the level experienced pre-2007.

“Looking forward, there is no clear consensus of sector-wide optimism; a third (33%) of companies expect economic prospects in Northern Ireland to improve; a fifth (21%) of respondents expecting things to worsen, while 38% foresee no change.”

The CEF/PwC analysis suggests that a number of factors could account for the lack of confidence in the local industry, including the implications of recent budget difficulties facing the Northern Ireland Executive and the reduction in the roads maintenance budget.

Despite the indications of recovery in the NI housing market, where both prices and activity levels are rising, there is little evidence of a sustained bounce in private housing building.

The market remains fragile, largely because of the debt overhang from the boom in the mid-2000s. It is thought that up to forty per cent of houses in Northern Ireland are still in negative equity and any improvement in house prices is only in the Belfast – Bangor – Lisburn area.

There is also the problem of not enough new houses being built here, government figures would suggest that around 11,000 new homes should be built here each year as opposed to the 5,300 homes that were actually built.

CEF Managing Director John Armstrong also warned that workload and employment levels were being boosted by companies operating outside Northern Ireland: “There is increasing evidence of companies reporting increased workload and employment, but where orders were being won in

John Armstrong.

London, Manchester and other construction hotspots in GB where workers are commuting to work outside Northern Ireland.

“In 2014, we estimated that the largest local construction companies generated up to two-thirds of their turnover – over £1bn – outside Northern Ireland. But, as much of this evidence remains anecdotal, we have now expanded our quarterly survey to include work undertaken outside Northern Ireland– even where the workers are being paid in Northern Ireland.

“We will report on these findings in future surveys but, in the absence of major public and private contracts here in Northern Ireland, some of our biggest firms may find the GB market more buoyant and more profitable. That could mean that, if the local market returns, the construction companies, may not.

“Overall however, while the sector is in a stronger position than when it was at its lowest point after the banking crisis, confidence is lukewarm, output remains between half and two-thirds of the pre-2007 level and there are headwinds around the medium-term economic picture.

“Chief amongst these headwinds

is the continuing political malaise at Stormont, where a breakdown of communication, trust and decisionmaking around the Executive table has left a huge sense of frustration and anger within the construction industry.

“November’s Spending Review will set the Executive’s budget envelope for the next four years and the industry expects the outcome to prompt speedy decisions as to how the already developed pipeline of work will be delivered.

“This industry previously contributed around 7% of total regional GVA and was a leading employer, where one construction job contributed to support up to four downstream jobs across the economy, many in rural areas where other industry is sparse.

“We have the capacity, the skills and the determination to regain that position, but the current political impasse is simply not acceptable.

Confidence remains fragile, investors remain uncertain and our political leaders need to lead so we can deliver an agreed pipeline of work that will contribute to employment creation and economic regeneration.”

50|

digest

Oplan Office Furniture proud to introduce new Leap sit/stand desking range

Leap sitting desk range.

“Sitting is the new smoking”, with a statement like that can you afford not to stand up and take notice?

It has now been proven that spending too much time sitting at your desk could be seriously damaging your health. With experts now referring to sitting as the new smoking it is widely thought that a ticking time bomb of ill health could explode at any time. Prolonged periods of inactivity increase the risk of obesity but also can cause a staggering list of other conditions. These include heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, muscular and back issues, deep vein thrombosis, brittle bones, depression and even dementia The world health organisation has already identified physical inactivity as

Leap standing desk range.

the fourth biggest killer on the planet, ahead of obesity. It now costs the UK economy more than £1bn every year in sick days due to back, neck and muscle problems and the figure is still rising. This is where our new Leap range of desking comes in which are adjustable sit/stand desks that allow workers to alter the height and work while sitting down or standing up. It is thought that within 20 years, one in five staff will be working at a sit stand desk, creating a happier and more productive workspace.

So is it time for you to change? We at Oplan Office Furniture certainly think so and we are here to help in any way we can. So why not stand up for change and get in touch today to arrange a free consultation/demonstration.

CRL selected for major Clanmil Housing projects Structural defects insurer CRL is to provide the warranties for a number of construction projects with a combined value of around £31m.

Won through a competitive tender process, CRL has been chosen by the Clanmil Housing Group to provide ten year structural warranties for more than 300 social homes to be built across Northern Ireland – with a total construction value of circa £31.2m.

The contract will see CRL provide its industry-leading ten year structural defects insurance to ten separate Clanmil developments which are being built as part of Clanmil’s ambitious growth programme.

Richard Livingston, president of sales, CRL, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Clanmil, and in wider terms to be playing our part in the upturn in the construction industry.”

“This is a significant appointment for CRL and testimony to our continual growth in this market. We also hope that by placing this cover with us, Clanmil can have confidence in us to deliver the highest levels of service and an industry-leading product that will ensure the success of these important developments.

The housing developments, which range in size up to 79 units, will provide homes for a mix of families, single people and active older people.

CRL, which has worked with many housing associations on similar schemes, will provide its structural defects insurance for Clanmil’s sites in Belfast, as well as in Derry/Londonderry and counties Down and Antrim, with developments all now underway.

Vaughan Engineering celebrate 60th years in business Local engineering contractor, Vaughan Engineering, which has worked on many of Northern Ireland’s landmark construction projects, including the Grand Opera House, Crescent Arts Centre and Victoria Square, recently celebrated 60 years in business.

Pictured at the recent gala evening were back (l-r) Bryan Vaughan, Director; Councillor Thomas Hogg, Mayor of Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council; Mike Vaughan, Group Managing Director; Gavin Vaughan, Group Finance Director; Paul Girvan MLA for South Antrim and Danny Kinahan MP for South Antrim. (Front) Albert Vaughan, Chairman; and Mrs Isabel Vaughan.

52| Diamond Systems

The Death of the Heat Detector?

Heat detectors are widely used in environments in which deceptive phenomena such as cooking fumes, dry ice, or dust cause smoke detectors to false alarm. The Fire Industry Association (FIA) recommend that a heat detector should only be used if no other technology is deemed suitable for the risk. With recent advances in fire detection and alarm technology, is there now a more appropriate solution?

Why are heat detectors used?

Heat detectors have been around for decades and are commonly found in restaurants, auditoriums, or industrial environments. This is because in these environments, deceptive phenomena such as cooking fumes, dry ice, or dust can cause smoke detectors to generate false alarms. With the introduction of fines in parts of the UK for repeated false fire alarms, coupled with the cost of downtime and inconvenience of evacuating buildings unnecessarily, avoiding false alarms is clearly a priority when selecting the type of fire detection to be specified and installed.

Heat Detector Limitations Whilst acknowledging the benefits of heat detectors in helping to reduce false alarms, it must be borne in mind that a major disadvantage of heat detectors is the fact they rely on heat to actuate. Heat detectors are relatively slow to respond in the event of a real fire, with the most common temperature setting around

58 degrees Celsius for activation. In a fast spreading fire, where time is of the essence, this delay in alarm activation could have devastating consequences for both the protection of life and property.

Heat detectors are indifferent to the level or type of smoke present, and they are widely recognised as inappropriate for use in sleeping accommodation or in the hallways outside bedrooms. This is because in the event of a real fire, smoke is likely to be the cause of death for the sleeping occupants, rather than the temperature of the fire. Whilst this limitation is widely acknowledged, the same theory isn’t equally applied to all environments. Given that heat detectors are designed to protect property not life, is it still necessary for specifiers and designers to accept a reduced level of detection, and one which prohibits the maximisation of intervention time?

Guidance on Specifying Heat Detectors The Fire Industry Association (FIA) acknowledge that heat detectors

respond slowly to developing fires and that they should only be used “if no other technology is deemed suitable for the risk”. This effectively means that heat detectors should be used as a last resort, in an effort to reduce false alarms. With this in mind the question surely needs to be asked: Does other technology now exist which offers reliable detection without compromising on safety?

False alarm free detection with no reduction in protection?

Leading global fire alarm manufacturer, Siemens, have developed a new standard of detection with immunity to deception. Using ASA technology, the Siemens Cerberus PRO fire detection and alarm system prevents false alarms by differentiating between smoke and false phenomena, using complex algorithms which analyse different components such as particulate size, CO level and heat.

As a result, the ASA smoke detector offers early fire detection – without the risk of false alarm. With this significant development in technology,

does there remain a need to specify heat detectors?

To learn more about the Siemens Cerberus PRO system, or to arrange a free demonstration of the unique ASA technology contact Northern Ireland’s sole Cerberus PRO partner, Diamond Systems, on 02890 207 207 or visit www.diamondsystems.co.uk.

QUARRY STONE

CONCRETE BLOCK & BRICK

READY-MIX & MINI-MIX CONCRETE

SUPPLY & LAY SCREED SERVICES

DECORATIVE GRAVEL

BITUMINOUS SURFACING MATERIALS

54|

digest

Scotland Build Expo 2015 is taking place on the 25th & 26th of November at the SECC in Glasgow This event will look in to the future of construction in Scotland and give your business a boost with the help of our industry leading speakers.

With our 2-day conference and 22 free-to-attend CPD training workshop sessions – the Scotland Build programme is packed with inspirational case studies, real-world experiences, success stories and consultant-level advice. Take advice from the best in the build business at the event next month.

Be sure to reserve your tickets today by following this link: www. scotlandbuildexpo.com There are limited tickets remaining, so register as soon as possible!

The workshops will cover topics such as: • Architecture, Design, BIM & Sustainable Building • Safety, Security & Building Regulation • Building Solutions & Materials • Marketing Tools Business Skills & Innovation The conference will cover topics on the future of construction in Scotland including:

• Scotland’s Construction Market Outlook • Building to Enable Scotland’s Renewable Energy Ambitions • Showcasing Innovation in Construction • Digital Communication – How Technology is Changing Processes • Narrowing Down the Skills Shortage And much more...

Attended by thousands of industry key players including: Aecom, Balfour Beatty, Taylor Wimpey, Transport Scotland, Morrison Construction, BAM Construction, Brookfield Multiplex, Interserve, Laing O’Rourke, Morgan Sindall, Keepmoat, Cala Group, Glasgow City Council, Keppie Design, BMJ Architects, Muse Developments, Sir Robert McAlpine, Scottish Power, Skanska, McLaughlin & Harvey, Wates Group Ltd, Lewis & Hickey Ltd, EDI Developments, Carillion plc, ISG, Anderson Bell & Christie, Mactaggart & Mickel Homes Ltd, Wheatley Group, Bowmer & Kirkland, Clyde Gateway, Lovell Partnerships Ltd, Robertson Construction, Graham Construction, Walker Group Ltd, Hadden Construction, East Ayrshire Council, HFD Group, Angus Council, Michael Laird Architects Ltd, plus many many more....

“Water Team” – Scoop Major Prize at Construction Excellence Awards Water’s contractor, Lagan Construction Group recently scooped a prestigious CEF award in recognition of their work on a major pipeline in North Belfast. “Gravity II – McVeigh’s Well to Old Park Service Reservoir” was awarded the top prize in the Utilities Infrastructure category.

The winning project involved an extensive programme of improvements which were recently completed in North Belfast, as Sara Venning, CEO of NI Water explained: “This £4 million package of work will improve the security of supply and will also have a positive effect on water quality in the North Belfast area.

The scheme will also help to reduce the number of burst watermains across the wider area, particularly over the winter months.

“I would like to congratulate Lagan Construction Group, who have extensive experience of major water infrastructure projects throughout Northern Ireland, on winning this prestigious award.”

Seamus Devlin Regional Director of Lagan Construction Group added: “We at Lagan Construction Group are delighted to win this CEF award, which is a great opportunity to showcase the Gravity II project amongst the best of the construction industry in Northern Ireland and to celebrate the industry’s achievements and highest standards of construction.

“The project was one of the highest profile trunk main rehabilitation projects undertaken by NI Water within an urban environment. The pipeline was laid through busy North Belfast residential areas, with minimal disruption and regular community engagement.”

A packed Culloden Hotel hosted the prestigious ceremony which is now firmly established as the highlight of the construction calendar in Northern Ireland.

Pictured with the award at NI Water’s pipe store at the Westland Road Head office are: (L-R) back row Graeme Irwin Lagan Construction, Martin Gillen NI Water, Sean McGlinchey Lagan Construction, and Bill Gowdy Director of Engineering Procurement- NI Water. Front – Sara Venning CEO of NI Water pictured with Seamus Devlin Regional Director of Lagan Construction Group.

56| drainage

High capacity drainage systems provide the solution to heavy rainfall

R

emoving surface water from buildings without damaging the fabric is a critical part of the longevity and success of any building.

But with our changing climate resulting in ever increasing and intense amounts of rain, it is vital that rainwater drainage systems have the capacity to handle heavy or constant rainfall. Faced with these challenges, high capacity drainage systems are seen as one of the best ways to remove rainwater and protect buildings from water ingress.

A high quality rainwater drainage system should not be an afterthought to the roof construction itself. In the case of larger commercial projects, factories, warehouses, agricultural and residential roofs, it is crucial to have the maximum protection possible from heavy rainfall which is why locally based Brett Martin Plumbing and Drainage have specifically developed the new Deepstyle 170 high performance rainwater system.

Super-sized Offering increased drainage capacity and allowing larger roofs to be drained more efficiently, the monster new Deepstyle 170 rainwater system has a super-sized 170mm profile which can accommodate the increased volumes of rainwater on large roof areas with a capacity of 11.54 litres per second1.

“The Deepstyle 170 rainwater system is a robust, hard wearing solution that will protect larger buildings against adverse weather,” commented Glenn Goodman, Ireland Deepstyle 170 and Deepstyle 115 Cross Section.

Deepstyle 170 range.

Sales Manager. “And because the system requires fewer discharge points, this reduces the number of downpipes to provide both material and installation savings.”

Unique design Manufactured from modern plastic materials at Brett Martin’s own quality assured BS EN ISO 9001:2008 factory in Mallusk, County Antrim, the Deepstyle 170 system is tested to EN 1462 Load Class H to withstand heavy duty snow loading. The high gloss PVC system is also proven to retain its stunning aesthetic with UV protection providing long term colour stability – backed by a 10 year colour warranty.

Another unique feature of Deepstyle 170 is the new and innovative factory fitted CLIP &

SEAL technology. Offering ease of installation and providing exceptional long-term sealing reliability, the CLIP & SEAL fully integrates with the fitting so that the specially designed captive seal is held securely within the fitting whilst the clip locks the seal firmly in place. When fitting the gutter, the CLIP provides just enough flex to allow the gutter to locate within the fitting, whilst a reassuring click locks the gutter securely into position compressing the seal for superior sealing.

Available in black and grey, Deepstyle 170 integrates seamlessly with Brett Martin’s 110mm Industrial Downpipe System to complete the company’s high capacity offering.

Comprising 110mm plain ended or single socket downpipe options, with high quality PVCu fittings, including bends, branches, access pipes

and clips, the system retains the adaptability essential in planning an industrial rainwater scheme.

Deepstyle 170 is the latest addition to Brett Martin’s rainwater portfolio which includes 106mm Prostyle, 112mm Roundstyle, 114mm Squarestyle, 115mm Deepstyle and 160mm High Capacity in addition to the innovative and highly acclaimed Cascade range of cast iron effect guttering and downpipe profiles.

Offering delivery within five days throughout Ireland using the company’s own delivery vehicles, Brett Martin’s comprehensive plumbing and drainage range is underpinned by on ground support from the sales team as well as a dedicated technical department who are on hand to help with technical queries.

Deepstyle 170 Cross Section with Angle.

58| drainage

Sustainability and style from Marley Alutec

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aking advantage of the contemporary lines of Marley Alutec’s composite aluminium Evoke fascia and soffit system and Aligator Boxer guttering, a unique renovation and self build project in Kent has blended modern style and technologies with traditional architecture.

The first phase of the project involved the complete renovation of an old Methodist Chapel located on the site in Goudhurst, Kent, while the second has seen an ambitious new build take shape called Chapel View.

Nick Leggett, a chartered surveyor and Partner of NDL Consulting, and his business and life partner Sonja Johnson took on the project with the view of creating two properties that complimented each other, whilst both having their own distinct style.

Started in September 2013, Chapel View is a 2,000 square foot dwelling and was built using an insulated concrete formwork (ICF) system.

Sitting partly below ground with 600 tonnes of earth having been removed from the site, the property hunkers down into its surroundings. The threestorey contemporary home enjoys stunning views and impressive ecocredentials, with no heating required and sustainable materials used throughout.

Nick commented: “When starting the project we were after a real mixture of traditional and modern materials; of natural surfaces and clean lines. After seeing Marley Alutec’s Evoke fascia and soffit and Aligator Boxer ranges at a recent trade show I knew it was the perfect fit for this project as its square box sections provided the contemporary detail I wanted. I also wanted the rainwater systems to match the fenestration so the fact that the Evoke range is available in the same RAL 7016 dark grey colour was a real selling point.

“In addition to fitting in with the building aesthetically, it was important to me that the chosen systems will perform well for the foreseeable future. The life expectancy of Marley Alutec’s products far exceeds that of plastic or timber systems, while the minimal maintenance needs of the system are very impressive and make it a solid investment for the on-going performance of the building envelope.”

Marley Alutec’s Evoke range is made from a recycled polyethylene core with an aluminium outer layer, making it both extremely light and very strong – despite being only 4mm thick. What’s more, the range boasts excellent performance and sustainability credentials, having a virtually maintenance free life expectancy of 50 years or more.

The entire system is fully recyclable making it one of the most sustainable ranges available in the UK. In addition, the manufacture of aluminium composite board uses approximately 75 per cent less energy than that needed to manufacture the equivalent volume in solid aluminium sheet.

Marley Alutec’s Aligator range offers the same long life expectancy as the Evoke range and is made from marine grade aluminium, which is impervious to corrosion.

“Central to the design of our

new home was our desire to build responsibly and efficiently. The sustainability of Marley Alutec’s products and the thermal efficiency of our exterior envelope using the ICF system, were key factors in helping us to build in this way and I would highly recommend them to other self builders,” continued Nick.

“I am thoroughly pleased with the finished look of the eaves system and confident that it will last for many years to come.”

For more information please visit www.marleyalutec.co.uk

AUMA completes major actuator refurbishment in record time

A

UMA UK has completed a major actuator refurbishment programme at Thames Water’s Ashford Common advanced water treatment works. The upgrade project involved switching out 160 existing electric actuators, refurbishing 130 devices and installing 30 new units over a nine week period, whilst keeping the site fully operational.

The 22 year old SA07.5 actuators removed from site were still suitable for refurbishment, despite over two decades of operational service. Once removed, the actuators were taken to AUMA UK’s factory in Clevedon, where the control heads were upgraded to the latest electronic units which include indicator lights. In addition, the actuators were fully tested, recalibrated, re-sprayed and issued with a new 12 month warranty.

Commenting on the achievement, AUMA UK Managing Director Paul Hopkins said: “The ability to renovate a 22 year old actuator is testament to the modular design and high quality construction of the AUMA product. This offered significant customer cost savings compared to the installation of all new actuators.

AUMA automated actuator test and calibration rig.

“The simple single plug and socket arrangement of the AUMA actuator means minimum downtime during actuator replacement and avoids any possibility of introducing field wiring errors. It is estimated that this feature alone saved 320 man hours and prevented significant plant disruption.”

Trained AUMA engineers liaised closely with Thames Water engineering and operational staff to complete all on-site works on time and to budget.

AUMA Actuators Ltd is part of the global AUMA group.

60| drainage

Stoneyford ICW – Northern Ireland’s first Integrated Construction Wetland site

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he Stoneyford facility is the first Integrated Construction Wetland (ICW) site in Northern Ireland, although it is common elsewhere in Europe.

This is a flagship project for NI Water, and they hope to develop an industry-leading example of how wastewater treatment can be integrated into, and indeed complement, the local eco-system.

Furthermore, ICWs are proven to be low-cost, low-energy and lowmaintenance in nature, compared with traditional solutions. They are particularly well suited to rural areas, and this project will promote a natural eco-system, as well as play a vital role in meeting future development needs in Stoneyford village.

It is an important step towards the development of more environmentally-sustainable solutions, and we also hope to develop the site into a community asset.

Work on the site started in 2014, when NI Water began the construction of the new solution to Municipal Wastewater treatment in Northern Ireland. The Integrated Constructed Wetland (ICW) approach is still relatively new within the water industry in Northern

Ireland and design models are still under development. This process uses a natural ecosystem to break down and treat the pollutants in a design that requires no additional input energy, other than sunlight.

The layout and plant selection was proposed by Vesi Environmental, project designers on the project. The ponds are arranged in sequence to maximise the retention time of the influent (wastewater) and create long flow paths to provide a retention time on site of approximately 90 days.

This retention time is a lot longer than other traditional processes used.

For example a new activated sludge plant will have a retention time of well under 12 hours, this substantial increase in time to 90 days impacts most on the footprint. The ponds are also very shallow with a maximum water depth of 200mm. This low technology process uses anaerobic bacteria activity to carry out the breakdown of the pollutants. This is a much slower reaction process, but as it requires very little external energy the operating costs are much lower than a traditional process. In the smaller scale sites it’s unlikely a mains supply of electricity will even be required.

Construction time was a major challenge on this project, with construction commencing in April

2014. The £0.8m project became fully operational on target in November 2014. These sites truly provide a fully sustainable, low cost, low energy and low maintenance alternative to the modern, high technology-based wastewater treatment solutions normally adopted for a population of almost 1,000PE. The site has already been very popular within the industry with group visits including: CIWEM, Irish Water, Institute of Water and the Institution of Civil Engineers. NI Water hopes to eventually open the site to the public and has great potential as an educational site for schools and groups.

Other areas of development

are in the area of biodiversity and monitoring any changes in the biodiversity at the site, the benefits to wildlife and the wider environment of the ICW. The data and information collected on the plants, birds and invertebrate fauna at the site may also be used for compiling informational brochures and signage and form part of raising awareness as well as a potential educational programme for the site in the future.

Another important aspect of biodiversity in the ICW solution is the variety of the vegetation. Different species of tall reeds, rushes, iris and sedges influence light levels, water temperatures, oxygen concentrations and water chemistry in their own way. The result is a mosaic of distinct patches of diverse species of vegetation across the wetland that increases the diversity of habitats to the benefit of biodiversity. This is good not only for nature, but is also good for the functioning capacity of the wetland.

The Northern Ireland Environmental Agency (NIEA) has been very supportive of the Stoneyford ICW project and like NI Water believes that this natural environmentally-friendly solution is particularly well suited to rural areas.

NI Water aims to introduce more of these sustainable solutions with construction commencing at Castle Archdale and planning and design for an ICW at Ballykelly.

NI Water would like to thank Irish Water (managers of Glaslough ICW) and all their stakeholders for all their support throughout this project.

BSG Civil Engineering was the main contractor for the scheme, with technical and project management from WYG Engineering.

KEY ADVANTAGES OF THE STONEYFORD ICW • Lower capital cost to construct than a conventional aeration WwTW, (ICW site £0.8m vs traditional design £1.4m).

• Simple design, construction and maintenance skills requirement (No screening or blower equipment).

• Only technology is monitoring instruments, none of which are critical to the treatment process.

• Exceptionally low energy demands (ICW site, Electricity <£50/month).

• Ease of commissioning/decommissioning.

• Ability to tolerate variable flows and influent quality.

• No sludge tankering required.

• Sustainable over a long lifetime (>50yrs).

• Increased biodiversity – secure large-scale wildlife habitats.

• Creation of an aesthetically-enhanced area with amenity potential for the local community.

law |61

Key tips to avoid the pitfalls of termination

BY Anna McClimonds, Solicitor, Cleaver Fulton Rankin

C

onstruction contracts often include a termination provision allowing parties to terminate a contract in certain circumstances by giving written notice. Alongside a contractual right to terminate, the parties also have a common law right to terminate for repudiatory breach i.e. a sufficiently serious breach of contract or demonstrating an intention not to be bound by the contract.

The 2013 case of Vivergo Fuels Ltd v Redhall Engineering Solutions Ltd [2013] EWHC 4030 (TCC) highlights the problems a party can face when exercising its right to terminate. In particular, it deals with the situation where another party challenges the validity of a termination notice and claims that the termination is itself a repudiatory breach entitling them to terminate the contract and claim damages.

The facts of the case are as follows: Vivergo Fuels Ltd engaged Redhall Engineering Solutions Ltd to carry out works at its biofuel plant. The works were delayed and Vivergo terminated the contract. Under the contract Vivergo could terminate Redhall’s employment if Redhall was in material breach by giving notice of its default (the Warning Notice), stating that if it did not “pursue rectification of that default” within 14 days, Redhall’s employment could be terminated by further notice (the Termination Notice).

The Judge held that the Warning Notice Vivergo sent to Redhall fulfilled the necessary contractual

requirements. However, as Redhall had remedied the particular default before Vivergo issued the Termination Notice, the grounds for termination had ceased to exist. Vivergo’s Termination Notice was therefore not valid. As Vivergo had not validly terminated the contract but had barred Redhall from the site, it was Vivergo who was in repudiatory breach.

The basic rule for service of a termination notice is that all contractual requirements must be strictly complied with. As Lord Hoffman said in Mannai Investments Co Ltd v Eagle Star Assurance “If the clause had said that the notice had to be on blue paper, it would have been no good serving a notice on pink paper, however clear it might have been that the [party] wanted to terminate.”

The following points should be considered before exercising a right to terminate: • Whether you have a right to terminate in the circumstances and whether the circumstances you are relying upon can be proved.

• Ensure your right to terminate exists at the time you issue the termination notice and the other party has not remedied its default.

• Compliance with all requirements set out in the contract.

• Caution must be taken where there is a two stage notice procedure to ensure the notices are connected in both content and time.

• The notice must be clear and unambiguous. Consider the following

when drafting a notice: • Title the document as a notice, although a letter may suffice as a warning notice in certain circumstances; • Specifically state in the notice that it is intended to be a warning/ termination notice; and • Refer to the contractual clause the notice is given under and mirror the wording of that clause.

In terms of interpreting notices, the following principles laid down in Vivergo Fuels v Redhall Engineering Solutions Ltd should be considered: • Unilateral notices are to be interpreted in the same way as contractual documents. That is,

they are to be looked at objectively, against the relevant background or context known to both parties; • The notice must be sufficiently clear and unambiguous and leave the receiver in no reasonable doubt as to how and when the notice is intended to operate; • Immaterial errors will be ignored if the notice unambiguously delivers the purpose; and • In the context of clauses which require a warning notice followed by a termination notice, the two notices must be connected both in content and time.

Cleaver Fulton Rankin’s market-leading team of lawyers deliver comprehensive commercial and practical advice, designed to achieve the most cost efficient result, to a diverse range of corporate clients. The Construction Team at Cleaver Fulton Rankin specialises in providing advice across the spectrum of non-contentious matters such as drafting and advising on building contracts, appointments, bonds, novation agreements and collateral warranties.

If you would like further information or to find out how we can help you please give us a call on: 028 9024 3141 or visit our website: www.cfrlaw.co.uk

62| motoring

VW Vans launch new Caddy and Transporter New Caddy: starting from £13,500 Providing excellent value for money, the fourth-generation of the Caddy Panel van is available in three trim levels – Startline, Trendline and Highline – and with short or Maxi wheelbases. Featuring new state-of-the-art technology, a raft of comfort, convenience and safety innovations as well as the introduction of a new Euro 6 engine the new generation Caddy is set to continue the success of the previous model.

The Caddy remains the second best-selling model in the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ range and is supplied with an impressive array of standard equipment, including electric windows and heated and electrically adjustable wing mirrors, a five-inch touchscreen Composition Colour radio system with DAB+ and Bluetooth capability. The Caddy sets a new benchmark in its class for its array of safety and convenience systems which include driver and front passenger front, side and curtain airbags, a new Automatic Post-Collision Braking system and a seatbelt reminder.

Some of the Euro 5 engine Caddy models can be specified with BlueMotion Technology modifications (Start/Stop system and battery regeneration) fitted to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. A standalone BlueMotion variant also joins the range: with a 2.0-litre Euro 6 102 PS engine and five-speed manual gearbox, it can return 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 114g/km.

New Transporter: Starting from £17,745 Raising the standards again, the sixth-generation Transporter sets the benchmark for quality, practicality and low running costs. The latest version launches with the widest range of engine, transmission and trim level options ever offered by Volkswagen. It also introduces a host of new design and engineering features, along with new assistance, safety, convenience and comfort systems.

Featuring cleaner, more efficient engines, the Transporter is available with a range of four 2.0-litre TDI Euro5 engines with outputs of 84 PS, 102 PS, 140 PS and 180 PS (Highline only) and a 2.0-litre TDI Euro 6 unit that develops 102 PS. All models benefit from Volkswagen’s acclaimed BlueMotion Technology modifications as standard. These include low rolling resistance tyres, regenerative braking and Start/Stop systems to reduce fuel consumption, meaning the new Transporter is cleaner and more efficient than the outgoing model.

In keeping with Transporter tradition, the new T6 model offers a range of body options and gross vehicle weights to suit the needs of all operators and drivers. In addition to three roof height options – standard (1,410mm), medium (1,635mm) and high (1,940mm) – the new Transporter is available with four gross vehicle weights (ranging from 2,600kg to 3,200kg) along with short and long wheelbase options.

Hyundai i20 takes NI Car of the Year Award

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he Hyundai i20 took the top spot at the 2016 NIIB Finance Northern Ireland Car of the Year Awards.

Speaking at the awards, Jim McCauley, Chairman of the Ulster Motoring Writers Association commented that; “The i20 has immediate appeal in terms of its sophisticated styling and high quality interior. And the admiration continues as you take to the road with its stable and secure handling and an excellent choice of engines.”

The awards are sponsored by NIIB Finance, part of the Bank of Ireland.

NIIB’s Regional Manager James Dempster presented the awards saying, “With NIIB Finance being the leading independent funding provider to the Northern Ireland motor market I am delighted to have teamed up with the Ulster Motoring Writers Association, delivering the 2016 NIIB Northern Ireland Car of the Year Awards. Being the local name in lending remains and has always been important to NIIB, complementing our existing GB challenger brand, Northridge Finance. To me, as the No1 independent lender these awards reinforce our commitment to the Northern Ireland motor trade, their customers and the wider economy.”

Other category winners at the awards ceremony included the Mazda2 (Small Car category), Seat Leon (Family Car), Suzuki Vitara (Lifestyle SUV), Audi RS3 (Sports Performance), Škoda Octavia 1.6 SE Business Line (Fleet Award) and the Mazda6 Tourer won the Executive Car of the Year.

Terry McLean, Hyundai Regional Manager, Jim McCauley, UMWA Chairman, Natasha Waddington, Head of Hyundai Press and PR and James Demspter, Regional Manager, NIIB Finance.

64| Willis

Local Businesses Taken To School T

he attack on Talk Talk at the end of October and the subsequent link to a homeschooled boy who stayed up all night on his computer, has certainly brought cyber-crime more to the public eye. Yet there are more attacks occurring in NI than highlighted by the local media, as this County Antrim linked incident proves.

Talk Talk, which has over four million UK customers, said banking details and personal information had been accessed to include names, addresses, emails, telephone numbers and credit card details. Cyber-attacks on consumer companies happen with mounting frequency, but the speed at which TalkTalk announced the attack suggested that it would be significant.

Not only was this an attack on personal data bringing into play the company’s reputation, 10% was

instantly wiped off its share price as the market expected accounts to be closed and customers lost.

Whilst Talk Talk can be seen as a major company with deep pockets and an IT security team working in the background, such attacks are becoming common -although on a smaller scale - to companies in Northern Ireland.

The PSNI reported in June of a local business sustaining losses due to ‘Ransomeware’ that caused a company to “lose control of all their network, had no data in relation to their stock control, their invoicing, their full system had been lost’.

They went on to say that because of the impact on the company it couldn’t trade and almost went out of business.

The PSNI stated that there have been a number of businesses have suffered serious disruption and financial losses as a result of computer hacking.

So how does Cyber Liability Insurance help?

Cyber Liability Insurance is specifically designed to address the risks that come with using modern technology; risks that other types of business liability cover simply won’t.

The level of cover your business needs is based on your individual operations and can vary depending on your range of exposure. It is extremely important to work with a broker that can identify your areas of risk so a policy can be tailored to fit your unique situation.

Willis IRM is here to help you analyse your needs and make the right cover decisions to protect your operations from unnecessary risk.

Contact David Stevenson for all your Construction needs on 028 9032 9042 or davidswillisinsurance. co.uk

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Disused military compound given new lease of life by Fold Housing Association A disused military compound in the hills of the Ring of Gullion in Newry has been given a new lease of life by Fold Housing Association with the official launch of a £2.23m social housing development.

Park Urney in Forkhill village is a highquality new build scheme which consists of 22 properties in total. The development includes 2 and 3 bedroom houses, 2 bedroom apartments and one fully accessible wheelchair bungalow, reflecting the different needs of the families on the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) waiting list.

The site, which had been used by the Ministry of Defence for over 30 years, closed down in the late 1990s. In 2007 the Department for Social Development (DSD), on behalf of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), produced a master plan for the development of the former base that included social housing, industrial and business units, childcare facilities, community space and sporting and recreational space.

Fold Housing Association purchased a two acre site in March 2012 and the new homes have been delivered in two phases.

Pictured at the launch of Park Urney in Forkhill village is (L-R) DARD Minister Michelle O’Neill, Fold tenant Brigid O'Hanlon and chair of Fold Housing Association, Diana Fitzsimons.

Diamond Systems launch New Home Control Plus Package Diamond Systems recently launched their new Home Control Plus package for the home security market. Using the very latest technology, the Diamond Home Control Plus package not only protects your home, but integrates with your lifestyle and provides you with complete control of your home security, from anywhere in the world.

The Diamond Home Control Plus package, via a customisable App, provides remote access to your home security system, including integration and remote viewing of home CCTV. The app will be customised by Diamond engineers, to allow you to check the current status of your system, set or unset your system remotely, or receive notifications via SMS to inform you that a family member has arrived home safely. It will also integrate with your home appliances, such as lights and heating so you can control these via your smart devices.

Diamond Systems sponsor the Belfast Giants who attended the recent launch of the product. Speaking at the launch, Steve Snoddon, Managing Director of Diamond Systems said “Diamond have always led the way in terms of innovative solutions. We have reacted to the fast-paced developments in mobile technology and are pleased to introduce this affordable product to the Northern Ireland home security market.”

CITB NI helping to improve business performance of local construction companies CITB NI are hosting a series of business improvement events to help develop commercial, management and sustainability skills within local construction companies.

The events will run from October to June focusing on topics such as Business Information Modelling, Credit Control, Waste Management and Tendering all led by an industry expert.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI said: “CITB NI is keen to help the local construction employers get the most for their business. We have listened to employers feedback and have designed information and advice events on topics that are in demand. We are working hard to identify solutions to help employers survive and are keen to help and advise on key training initiatives for the construction industry. These events are an informal way of providing relevant up to date information to the industry and also listening to what employers have to say.”

The first seminar: • Business Improvement Seminar: Credit Control Wednesday 18th Nov 2015 - Wednesday 18th Nov 2015 This seminar will focus on Credit Control and will provide information and guidance on cost control in your business. The seminar will be held on 18th November 2015 at Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown from 9am-10.45am www.citbni.org.uk/Events/Business-Improvement-Seminar--Credit-Control.aspx

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CIOB Conferring Ceremony

Front row left to right: David Little FCIOB, Chair of the CIOB in Ireland; Patsy McGlone MLA; Rebecca Thompson FCIOB, VicePresident of the CIOB; Mark Gilmore FCIOB, Chair of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre and Gerard Graham MCIOB, Senior Vice-Chair of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre.

Parliament Buildings within the Stormont Estate was the setting for a Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) Conferring Ceremony recently. Almost 100 guests were in attendance for the event where 21 people were awarded Chartered membership and three members were upgraded to Fellow membership of the institute.

The CIOB’s Vice-President Rebecca Thompson FCIOB was the special guest and spoke about the significance of CIOB qualifications in helping to increase the professional standards throughout the construction industry. She also highlighted the exciting range of professional career opportunities that are available.

David Little FCIOB, Chair of the CIOB in Ireland took the opportunity to remind the attendees that membership of the CIOB is becoming an increasingly sought-after qualification for not just individuals, but also for companies to help demonstrate their professionalism.

Mark Gilmore FCIOB, Chair of the CIOB in Ireland’s Northern Centre facilitated the presentations and concluded by thanking all the attendees including their families for making the event such a success. The CIOB would like to extend its thanks to Patsy McGlone MLA for hosting the event.

GRAHAM Construction named as one of the UK’s top growth companies GRAHAM Construction, which has a Head Office in Hillsborough has been ranked at 26 in The Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250.

The contractor, which recently completed the £50m upgrade to the A2 at Jordanstown and the new Lagan Weir Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge in Belfast and is currently working on £232m redevelopment of the Ulster

Hospital has achieved a significant rise in the prestigious list following an initial placing at 140 of the rankings in 2012. The 11th annual Sunday Times Grant Thornton Top Track 250 ranks Britain’s mid-market growth private companies with the biggest sales.

Michael Graham, executive chairman, said: “This is a fantastic accomplishment that recognises Graham as an ambitious, fast growing and well managed business. With a

Murdocks mark a decade of success at Duncrue Murdock Builders’ Merchants is celebrating a decade of success in North Belfast where its Duncrue branch has ‘cemented’ a loyal customer base across both the building trade and the general public, thanks to its service ethos and product expertise.

Pictured celebrating the 10 year milestone with the team of staff from Murdock’s Duncrue, 50% of whom have worked for the branch since it first opened in 1995 are manager Gary Ryan (left) and sales manager Martin Roe (centre).

near 240-year history, we remain an independent business holding true to the founding principles of openness, integrity, collaboration and innovation.

“To be ranked alongside so many high performing businesses is testament to the dedication; professionalism and endeavour of the entire Graham team and is one of the prime reasons for our healthy order book across all our sectors.”

Graham is one of Britain’s fastest

growing contractors with an annual turnover in excess of £490m and more than 1,600 employees. The company operates across the UK and Ireland with expertise in a broad range of Construction, Civil Engineering, Facilities and Asset Management and Project Investment Sectors stretching from education, health, leisure, commercial and residential, to road, rail, marine and nuclear markets

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Marcon soaring high after landing prestigious contract at the American Air Museum Antrim-based fit-out specialist, Marcon has landed a major fit-out contract at the American Air Museum, one of the exhibition spaces at the renowned IWM Duxford, part of Imperial War Museums.

The American Air Museum at IWM Duxford, Cambridge houses a unique collection of American aircraft which is the largest collection on public display outside the United States.

IWM Duxford is the UK’s bestpreserved Second World War fighter station and was home to the US Eighth Air Force’s 78th Fighter Group from 1943–45.

Marcon’s specialist joinery facility will manufacture the set-works, displays and interactive exhibits and the project team will manage the installation of showcases, Audio Visual hardware and graphics.

McLaughlin & Harvey: world record beaters

Civil Engineering contractor McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd has been the technical advisors in the successful world record attempt by Queen’s University, Belfast, Civil Engineering students.

The third year students had support from the Belfast-based building and civil engineering contractor to build the 30m long Meccano Bridge, which was lowered

into place by McLaughlin & Harvey across the Clarendon Dock in Belfast.

The attempt to build the world’s largest Meccano structure was verified by the Guinness Book of Records in a ceremony on Saturday 19th September and was the culmination of the student’s efforts as part of the Big Bridge Build.

The year-long project engaged not only academics and students, but

also local school children as part of the university’s outreach programme to encourage more children into STEM careers.

John McCarey, Chief Engineer at Civil Engineering contractor McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd said: “It has been exciting working closely with both the academics and students of Queen’s University on this successful record attempt.

Through our experience we have been able to support these engineers of the future create something that people around the world will be able to see. To have built an entire structure just from Meccano required a great deal of technical expertise and we are pleased that our team has been part of that.”

McLaughlin & Harvey provided not only technical expertise in supporting the student’s build, but also resources and a warehouse in which the bridge components were assembled and tested.

Finally they have provided on-site engineers managing its relocation to the Clarendon dock and subsequent installation across the water.

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Murdocks help restore national treasure Newry-based Murdock Builders’ Merchants has played a lead role in an £8m restoration programme to transform one of Northern Ireland’s national treasures.

Mount Stewart, which is located on the shores of Strangford Lough, recently re-opened following three years of restoration which has seen the neo-classical house lovingly and painstakingly revived.

Murdock’s was awarded the contract to supply all building and joinery material for the project. In addition to being one of the company’s most significant wins, the Murdock’s team has been applauded by the National Trust for its role in the project and in particular for the ‘proactive and innovative approach to problem solving’ provided by its experts.

As the largest and most demanding conservation project undertaken by the National Trust in NI, the contract awarded to Murdocks required precise skills, expertise and bespoke product design.

Denis Wright, project manager for the National Trust said: “Murdock Builder’s Merchants approach to this contract was one of partnership, local knowledge and innovation. “Like all major restoration projects, unforeseen problems are uncovered as work progresses but thanks to the attention and support provided by Murdocks, prompt and practical solutions were delivered each and every time.”

Replacing old joists and roofing trusses – some of which were over eight metres in length – was a particular challenge. As they were too long to transport and required bespoke design, the National Trust’s joinery experts worked with Murdocks to set up a production facility in Mount Stewart. This enabled the joiners to craft all structures by hand to ensure quality and consistency throughout.

Ken Robson, branch manager of Murdock Builder’s Merchants commented: “We were thrilled to play such an important role in this highly significant project and are proud that our advice, expertise and craftsmanship will help to ensure this great national treasure is maintained and enjoyed by future generations.”

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Datum monitoring €3.5m Cork Train Station DATUM Monitoring Ireland in Moira, Co Down, is managing monitoring works at the primary train station in Cork to ensure ongoing construction works adjacent to Kent Station will not affect the stability of the city’s superstructure or railway lines.

The ongoing €3.5m project at Kent Station by Iarnród Éireann (Irish rail IR) will see the construction of two new entrance buildings and a new bi-directional road linking Railway Street, Alfred Street and Horgan’s Quay.

Datum Monitoring Ireland, which offers a comprehensive range of geotechnical and structural expertise specialising in remote monitoring of earthworks, structures and transport infrastructure, has been appointed by Dublin based construction group – SIAC Ltd. SIAC Ltd, which is currently constructing a new building entrance and subway, appointed Datum Monitoring Ireland to install extensive remote monitoring sensors.

Mark Hodgen said: “This is a 13 month project set in the hub of

intercity rail service which connects Cork with the rest of Ireland. It's an exciting project for Irish Rail which will change the face of one of Ireland’s busiest railway stations.

“SIAC Ltd have contracted Datum to install Wireless Tilt Sensors to monitor any movement which could potentially occur on the existing buildings and railway lines due to construction activity.

“Wireless Piezometers monitoring

ground pressures are also being recorded. These systems are set up with early alarm protocols which activate on-site sirens if any movement exceed allowable limits.

“The DATUM team will also monitor the works using precise 3D target levelling and by manually reading deep boreholes for inclination.”

The project has involved the combination of 25 wireless TiltMATE

Sensors – nine internal, 16 external rotation sensors and 69 Wireless TrackMATE sensors monitoring the running rail heights. These provide SIAC Ltd and Irish Rail real time data on how the structure is reacting to ongoing ground works which include heavy industry piling.

DATUM have also installed 26 precise Levelling points which are being manually monitored on a weekly basis.

MSM Contracts awarded Railway Society contract

Celebrating the start of work at Whitehead are (from left) Paul Mullan, head of HLF Northern Ireland, Caroline Bell, Tourism NI project manager, Dr Joan Smyth, RPSI vice-president and Robert Mackey, managing director, MSM Contracts.

The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland has announced the appointment of MSM Contracts, a Portadown-based building and civil engineering company, to carry out a major development project at its base in Whitehead.

The £2m building contract is part of an overall £3m investment which will see the transformation of the RPSI’s base into a museum and interpretative centre, open to the public and creating a significant new tourist attraction in Whitehead.

Funding for the project has been provided by Heritage Lottery Fund and Tourism Northern Ireland (part financed by the European Regional

Development Fund under the European Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for NI), with additional support from Mid and East Antrim Council and Ulster Garden Villages.

RPSI chairman Denis Grimshaw said: “We are delighted to have reached this significant point in the Society’s development and now look forward to work proceeding rapidly on the new Whitehead Railway Centre.

“We are confident that the £3m centre will provide a major tourist attraction which will help to put the railway town of Whitehead on the map.

“Since the RPSI established its base at Whitehead in 1966 we have been increasingly aware of the need to create a proper museum and interpretative centre for visitors, as well as improving our display potential and enhancing our heritage engineering capacity and storage facilities.

“This project will transform our base into a visitor-friendly living museum with a period-style signal cabin, a 60ft locomotive turntable and extensions to our locomotive workshops and carriage sheds.

“This facility will include interpretative displays that will tell the story of the development of the railways and set Whitehead and the RPSI in this context.

Visitors will also be able to watch from a viewing gallery as work is carried out on our locomotives in our engineering workshops.

“It promises to create a unique attraction and coupled with the recently re-opened Gobbins Cliff Path, will give tourists and locals a new reason to visit Whitehead and Islandmagee.

MSM Contracts has already worked with the RPSI in that it built the International Fund for Ireland-backed two-track carriage shed at Whitehead back in 1992/3. Work on the latest development is due to be completed by summer 2016 – a fitting way to mark the Golden Jubilee of the Society’s arrival in Whitehead.

digest

|69

Brand new eco venue Belfast Contained opens The Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alderman Guy Spence (pictured right) officially unveiled Belfast Contained. Also pictured is Chairman of Visit Belfast David Gavaghan (pictured left) and director of Contained and the Square Pit collaborative Gary Flynn (middle).

A brand new, innovative pop up venue was officially unveiled recently in Corporation Street, Belfast.

Belfast Contained is a brand new eco venue, which is the brainchild of the Square Pit Collaborative, the same team behind the successful T13 Skateboard Park.

Belfast Contained is a creative hub for culture and commerce and will host an eclectic mix of events before Christmas including festivals, film clubs, a Viking reenactment, an art exhibition by Terri Bradley, sport, music, dance, fashion, hair and beauty events, to name but a few. This project is a new chapter in Belfast’s on-going urban regeneration and a landmark innovation to the city’s tourism development strategy.

CEF response to BBC investigation into CSCS A recent report by the BBC into the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) said that the flagship scheme for certifying builders has been called into question after a string of test centres were caught rigging health and safety exams.

Construction workers across the rest of the UK are required to hold a CSCS card to prove skills and grasp of health and safety, but a BBC investigation revealed widespread, organised cheating, allowing untrained builders on to dangerous sites.

The scheme’s administrators insist fraud is being tackled robustly.

Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards, launched by the industry in 1995, are seen as a benchmark.

The flagship scheme for certifying builders has been called into question after a string of test centres were caught rigging health and safety exams.

The BBC reported that numerous test centres are offering guaranteed passes for cash, enabling workers lacking English to obtain qualifications.

Commenting on the BBC investigation into Construction Skills Certification Scheme [CSCS] cards in GB, John Armstrong, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation [CEF] said: “In

Northern Ireland we do not operate the CSCS card scheme that operates throughout GB. Instead, we operate a bespoke scheme for Northern Ireland – the Construction Skills Register [CSR] card scheme – which has been running now for almost 20 years, since 1997.

“With around 70,000 current CSR card holders in Northern Ireland, the CSR is the industry standard here and construction workers are required to produce their CSR card in order to gain access to construction sites.

“The focus of the CSR scheme in Northern Ireland is much more on health and safety training – with all card holders having to undergo a minimum one-day health and safety training programme at least every four years.

“These training programmes are delivered across the province by a small network of accredited training providers, all of whom are subject rigorous audit and unannounced inspections of both their delivery of training and their administration processes.

“The CSR scheme is one of the key contributing factors that has helped to significantly reduce the number of accidents on building sites in Northern Ireland since its inception in 1997.”

digest

70|

Celebrating Northern Ireland’s top building projects RICS Awards launched for 2016 Andrew Tough, RICS NI Chairman, Susan Mason, RICS NI, and Alistair Dunn, Chairman of the judging panel at Malone House, Belfast.

The RICS’s annual search for Northern Ireland’s top building projects gets underway with a call for local professionals to showcase the high calibre of their work.

The organisation’s 2016 awards will include eight categories to reflect the full breadth of excellence across the property and construction sectors in Northern Ireland.

In addition to Project of the Year, prizes will be presented in the following categories:

• • • • • • • •

Building Conservation Commercial Community Benefit Design & Innovation Infrastructure Regeneration Residential Tourism & Leisure Calling on professionals to enter this year’s scheme, RICS NI Awards Judging Chairman, Alistair Dunn, said: ”The RICS Awards are a unique opportunity for professionals in the property and construction sectors to

have their work highlighted on a local and international platform.”

“A wide range of local schemes have made a positive impact in communities and in business, have broadened our tourism offering, enhanced our infrastructure, revived residential areas, and have restored some of our most-loved buildings.

I would strongly encourage the professionals behind them to take the opportunity to have their excellent work recognised.”

Entry to the awards, which are

open to all practitioners within the property and construction sectors, is now open, with a final entry deadline is January 15, and early bird offer for entries received by November 30.

Every Northern Ireland category winner will go forward to the RICS Awards Grand Final in London, where they will compete with other regional winners from across the UK. Further information about the awards is available at: www.rics.org/ awards by calling the RICS NI office on 028 9032 2877.

Lisney extracts sizeable share of ni quarry market Commercial property agent Lisney has completed the sale of two working quarries in a matter of months.

A 12.8-acre sand and gravel quarry located at Termon Road, Carrickmore, in Tyrone has been sold to Omagh-based concrete manufacturers and local quarry operators McGarrity Bros Ltd and was

followed by the sale of Doonan Quarry, Killadeas, County Fermanagh, to a local unnamed purchaser.

With Doonan Quarry and the Termon Road Quarry potentially offering the buyers three million tonnes and 576,000 tonnes of unextracted mineral reserves respectively, both sales attracted highly competitive bidding.

Commenting on the sales, Lloyd Hannigan of Lisney Chartered Surveyors, said: “Both of the quarries have the capacity to be fully operational and have over 3.5 million tonnes of unextracted mineral reserves between them, which led to the competitive bidding processes on both sites.”

ABORICULTURAL CONSULTANCY

Automatic doors

Building information

CONCRETE

Professional & Impartial Services Tree inspections (ground & aerial) Tree Surveys Tree Hazard Identification Mortgage Reports Vegetation Management Schedules Legal Dispute/ Expert Witness Services High Hedge Legislation advice Planning Consultations Woodland Management Plans Tree Planting & Landscape Design All consultancy work is conducted by fully qualified and experienced personnel and is covered by £1m professional indemnity insurance.

Northstone (NI) Ltd, Company No. 4078, Registered Office: 99 Kingsway, Dunmurry Belfast BT17 9NU Correspondence Address: Northstone (NI) Limited Materials Division Shinny Road, Coleraine BT51 4PS Tel: 028 7032 1100

Clarke Cunningham Tree Maintenance Ltd. 69 Upper Mealough Road Carryduff, BT8 8LR TEL: 028 9081 4488, Fax: 028 9081 4333 Email: info@treemaintenance.com Website: www.treemaintenance.com

Cavity trays

ACCESS SOLUTIONS

Manufacturers of preformed cavitrays, caviclosers, cavivents, caviweeps, dampcourses, arches, lintels, airbricks, membranes, barriers, flashings, ventilators; cavibricks. Radon and Methane protection systems.

Wide range of preformed systems from the largest and longest established specialist. Products with Agrement certificates to British Standards. LABC Product Type Approval. Free design and advisory service. For high performance products with warranty.

Cavity Trays Ltd is the only tray manufacturer awarded European Technical approval.

Quality Access Equipment & Bespoke Access Solutions • Ladders • Stepladders • Scaffold Towers • Platforms & Podiums • Engineering & Fabrication • Inspections • Training Clow Group Ltd. 2/24 Limestone Road Belfast BT15 3AJ Tel: +44 (0)2890 749 748 Fax: +44 (0)2890 749 758 Email: enquiries@clowgroup.co.uk Web: www.clowgroup.co.uk

CONCRETE

to advertise Contact...

Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Walkway Systems Scaffold Tower Systems Edge Protection System Fall Arrest & Personal Protection Equipment Promoting ‘Safe Working Platforms’ Ridgeway 103 Airport Road Belfast, BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9045 4599 Fax: 028 9045 4596 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

CES Liquid Screed • Reduced build height • Reduced drying times • Reduced health and safety risk • Reduced tile adhesive • Increased strength • Increased thermal properties

CES Liquid Screed Doran's Rock Quarry & Concrete Works, 124 Crossgar Road, Saintfield, Co. Down, BT24 7JQ Email: sales@cesquarryproducts.com Web: www.cesquarryproducts.com

Acoustic and fire barriers /stops for cavity wall specifications.

New range to suppress sound transmission with up to fours hours fire integrity rating Level threshold isolation dpc's and compatible vertical closers now available.

Immediate distribution from stock Cavity Trays Limited Contact: Stephen Leyland Ltd, Castings House, Quarry Heights, North Road, Newtownards BT23 7SZ Tel: 028 9182 2522 Fax: 028 9182 2558 Cavity Trays Ltd New Administration Centre, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 8Hu Tel: 01935 474769 Fax: 01935 428223 E-mail: enquiries@cavitytrays.co.uk

Concrete

Demolition

McCusker Demolition Ltd have a wealth of experience within the demolition industry, covering all areas of Northern Ireland. We have built up a proven track record and reputation for being highly competitive, efficient and for completing all works to the highest possible standards.

All our employees are fully trained in line with current legislation and are continually assessed and certified in all aspects of their work.

McCusker Demolition Ltd North Building 155 Northumberland Street Belfast BT13 2JF Tel: 028 9023 3301 Fax: 028 9020 1427 Email: info@mccuskerdemolition.com

FIRE & SECURITY

“Northern Ireland’s Leading FamilyOwned Fire & Security Specialists” Diamond Systems have been providing innovative fire and security solutions for a range of clients, throughout Northern Ireland for over 27 years, from commercial and industrial premises to public sector and residential.

Calor Gas Northern Ireland Limited

• Fire Detection & Alarm • Fire Suppression Systems • Integration • Intruder Detection & Alarm • CCTV • Access Control • Remote Monitoring • Emergency Communications Systems

Airport Road West, Sydenham, Belfast, BT3 9EE. Tel: 028 9045 5588 E-mail: info@calorgas.ie Website: www.calorgas.ie

Web: www.mccuskerdemolition.com design

Quality Precast Solutions for Building and Civil Construction

COMMISSIONING

INSTALLATION

MAINTENANCE

Diamond Electronic Systems Ltd Unit 1a Harbour Court, 5 Heron Road, Belfast BT3 9HB Tel: 028 9020 7207 Email: info@diamondsystems.co.uk www.diamondsystems.co.uk

• Asset BEBO Bridge Arches • Redi-Rock Wall Systems • Box Culverts • Bridge Parapets • Manhole Rings & Slabs • Heads & Sills, Copings and Edgings • Above Ground Post-Tensioned Tanks

GAS

Moore Concrete Products Caherty House, 41 Woodside Road, Ballymena BT42 2QH Tel: 028 2565 2566 Fax: 028 2565 8480 Email: info@moore-concrete.com Web: www.moore-concrete.com

FACADES

Swiss Facades Transforming Exterior Facades Premium Swiss Quality Panel Systems for High End Architecture

Swiss Facades Contact Anne Hurl.

Tel: +44 (0)7554 056930 Office Tel: +44 (0)28 79632026 Email us info@swissfacades.com www.swissfacades.com

GAS

Flogas goes far beyond simply managing and supplying bulk and cylinder LP Gas requirements.

Choosing LP Gas from Flogas not only opens the door to a versatile, highly efficient energy source with affordable installation and running costs – we create and implement tailored energy solutions specific to client applications.

Our experience covers a comprehensive range of markets including domestic (both single dwelling and metered estates), catering, commercial, industrial, agricultural and automotive.

CPD Learning CPD sessions are now available from Flogas to assist architects, planning consultants and other specifiers in updating their core learning and knowledge. For more information visit www.flogasni.com/cpd.

Flogas Airport Road West Belfast Harbour Estate BELFAST BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9073 2611 Email: info@flogasni.com Web: www.flogasni.com

Calor is a leading supplier of cleaner, efficient LPG energy solutions in Northern Ireland with specialist knowledge covering all sectors Including Industrial, Commercial, Hospitality, Agriculture, and Domestic.

We offer our customers: • Tailored energy solution • Full design service • Technical support and guidance • 24-hour emergency call out Calor Accredited CPD programme available.

Content includes LPG Product Knowledge, Gas Regulations and Standards. Courses are FREE of charge and available by arrangement with one of our Calor Business Development Engineers. Contact cpd@calorgas.ie

Industrial Doors

Metal Finishing

Acheson & Glover has been in business for more than 50 years. As well as in-depth experience we offer the widest range of concrete products in the UK and Ireland - from manhole covers to decorative walling and paving.

Then there’s our unique range of problem solvers:

Industrial Doors & Loading Bay Equipment Automatic Gates, Traffic Barriers, Turnstiles, Electric Overhead Cranes, Hoists, Lifting Gear

• • • • • •

Britannia Electrical Services Unit 4, McKinney Industrial Estate, Hydepark, Mallusk BT36 4PX

SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALLS ACOUSTIC BLOCKS THERMAL BLOCKS PERMEABLE PAVING PRESTRESSED FLOORING BESPOKE (contact us to discuss your needs)

Acheson & Glover Ltd. 64 Old Moy Road Dungannon Co. Tyrone BT71 6PU Tel: 028 8778 4208 Fax: 028 8778 4805 Email: solutions@acheson-glover.com Web: www.acheson-glover.com

Tel: 028 9083 8030 Fax: 028 9083 8058 Email: bes.doors@btconnect.com Website: www.besdoors.co.uk

Insurance Intermediaries

PLASTIC SHEETS/ SHAPES

PAVING

METAL MESH

Local construction insurance expertise at competitive terms

Contact Keith Hynds or David Stevenson

on 028 9032 9042 Email: info@willisinsurance.co.uk Web: www.willisinsurance.co.uk

Mats and matting

N. Ireland distributors and stockists for Coral mats and matting. Nuway entrance matting systems, threshold matting and tiles, rubber, plastic, coir and anti-fatigue matting, Gradus stairnosings, safety flooring, Flexi tiles, Studded rubber and Jaymart products.

Matrex Mats and Matting 24B Portadown Road, Lurgan, Co. Armagh BT66 8QX Tel: 028 3832 8857 Fax: 028 3832 1058 Mobile: 07831 141305 E-mail: matrex@btconnect.com Web: www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk

support

range

• Perspex • Lexan solid polycarbonate • Marlon multi wall polycarbonate • Engineering plastics • Machined Parts 24 Stockmans Way, Musgrave Park Industrial Estate, Belfast BT9 7ET Tel: 028 9066 8358 Fax: 028 9066 0623 Email: plastics@comcoplastics.co.uk Web: www.comcoplastics.co.uk

PUMPING

Willis & Company provide a wide range of Insurance products to protect your business as well as Health & Safety and Risk Management Services.

• Employers & Public Liability Insurance • Contractors "All Risks" Insurance • Motor Fleet Insurance • Professional Indemnity Insurance • Property & Business Interruption Insurance • Latent Defects Insurance • Bonds

service

DRILLING & PUMPING SUPPLIES LTD

"Twil" Weldmesh EXPAMET Expanded Metal, FLOWFORGE Open Steel Flooring, Handrail Standards & Stair Treads, PERFORATED Metal Sheets, Comprehensive Stock Range, Ridgeway 103 Airport Road, Belfast BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9045 4599 Fax: 028 9045 4596 Email: info@ridgeway-online.com Web: www.ridgeway-online.com

Hire Centres

Partitions (Acoustic)

We at Masters Choice Ltd have been manufacturing acoustic partitions and joinery products for over 20 years. All products offered by Masters Choice are manufactured at our workshop by experienced and dedicated tradesmen to the highest quality and standard. As we manufacture all products ourselves which allows us to offer a full range of services including Design. We manufacture and install all products to our Clients specific requirements. We also offer an after sales care package on all products provided.

Master's Choice Ltd Silverbridge, Newry N. Ireland, BT35 9LJ Tel: (028) 30861032 Fax: (028) 30861693 E-mail: shona@masterschoice.co.uk

Are one of the foremost pump distributors in Ireland, holding agencies for some of the worlds leading pump manufacturers.

We offer a complete design / supply / install service with the technical expertise and product range to support everything from domestic / commercial packaged pump stations to bespoke systems for municipal applications.

Our specialities include: • Hot / cold water boosting • Rainwater harvesting • Food and pharmaceutical • Sewage and storm pumping systems • Leachate systems Drilling & Pumping Supplies Ltd Tel: 028 9181 8347 Email: sales@dps-ni.com

FreePhone

0800 1 970 970

SAFETY

't ut o s DON is m If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact: Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Providing on-site safety for: • Construction • Maintenance • Engineering Lifeline Air Bags Mobile: 07748 786 076 Fax: 028 8772 9262 E-mail: malachymckee@me.com Web: www.lifelineairbags.co.uk

REcruitment

All Ireland Sales and Marketing Recruitment Specialists • Building & Construction • Chemicals • Telecoms • Technical/ Construction • Advertising/Media • IT • Retail • FMCG/Foodservice • Marketing Unit 2, 1 Edgewater Road, Belfast Harbour, Belfast, BT3 9JQ Tel: +44 28 9077 0999 E: glenn.mccormick@salesplacement.com Web: www.salesplacement.com

REtaining walls

Retain provides a design supply & installation service for a range of earth retention systems. All of the systems are class leaders. This ensures clients confidence that the most suitable system is used in each given application.

• Greenface • Andacrib • Modular Block • Gabions • Installation • Permacrib

PLASTER & PLASTERBOARD

Gyproc is the market leader in plaster, plasterboard and drylining systems, manufacturing in Ireland since 1936, with a long history of providing innovative, costeffective and reliable products that meet the demands of the construction industry.

Looking to the future Gyproc is determined to remain at the forefront, as market leader, continuing to provide innovative, sustainable design solutions for the buildings of the future.

Gyproc, Ireland Unit 4, Kilcarbery Business Park, Nangor Rd, Dublin 22, Ireland Direct Line 01-6298400 www.gyproc.ie Email: enquiries@gyproc.ie

Products and Services The following sections provide an overview of what we can provide, please contact us if you have a particular problem or application that isn’t featured on our site.

• Horizontal, Vertical, Inclined and Overhead Cable Systems • Mobile Anchors • Eyebolts • Demarcation • Annual systems Retest • Risk Assessment • Maintenance • Training Pronet Safety Services Tel: 028 9337 3967 Fax: 028 9335 3518 Email: info@pronetsafetyservices.com Web: www.pronetsafetyservices.com Web: www.pronetsafetyproducts.com

TREE CARE SERVICES National Housebuilding Council (NHBC) Northern Ireland Holyrood Court, 59 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6SA Tel: 028 9068 3131 Fax: 028 9068 3258

PVC BUILDING PRODUCTS

Specialists in uPVC Building Products.

• FASCIA & SOFFITS • HYGEINIC WALL CLADDING • WINDOW TRIMS

Head Office:

Unit 2 Musgrave Park Industrial Estate, 26 Stockmans Way, Belfast, BT9 7ET TEL: 02890381990 www.wilplas.com E-mail Sales@wilplas.com

Branches at: Ballymena 028 25645380 Cookstown 028 86764422

• Roofing & Cladding • Timber in Construction

Washroom systems

PRONET SAFETY SERVICES

• RAINWATER SYSTEMS

Retain Solutions Ltd 56 York Street, Belfast BT15 1AS Tel: 028 9031 3881 Email: retain@retain.co.uk www.retain.co.uk

Safety

Newry 028 30252499

Design that lasts Extensive range of washroom systems

Outstanding quality & performance

Exceptional service & support

Petal Email: info@petal.co.uk w: www.petal.co.uk

Wall & DOOR PROTECTION

Professional & Impartial Services Crown lifting / Raising / Crown Reduction Selective / Formative Pruning Deadwooding / Crown Cleaning Storm Damage Rectification (24hr) Removal of dead, diseased and dangerous trees Sectional removal with the aid of mobile crane Stump Grinding, Root Removal and Root Pruning Conifer Maintenance High Hedge Legislation advice Young Tree Maintenance Shrub Pruning / Grounds Maintenance Woodland Management Tree Planting Composted Woodchip and Firewood Sales Fully equipped, insured and qualified Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor

Clarke Cunningham Tree Maintenance Ltd.

69 Upper Mealough Road Carryduff, BT8 8LR TEL: 028 9081 4488, Fax: 028 9081 4333 Email: info@treemaintenance.com Website: www.treemaintenance.com

't t N ou O s D is m If you wish to advertise in this space, please contact: Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218

siobhankissward@greerpublications.com

Products: Protection Rails Handrails Wall Protection Door Protection Heavy Duty Protection Yeoman Shield provides a range of functional and attractive wall and door protection systems for new build and refurbishment projects.

Our wide range of rails, wall sheet, corner and door protection systems are designed to prevent expensive and unsightly damage to the internal fabric of commercial and public buildings.

We have over 45 years of experience of wall and door protection combined with a wealth of knowledge and wide product range which is held in stock for immediate distribution.

Contact us for further information or visit www.yeomanshield.com where you can view the complete Yeoman Shield brochure.

Contact our head office with regards to coverage for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland: Yeoman Shield c/o Harrison Thompson & Co Ltd Whitehall Estate Whitehall Road Leeds LS12 5JB Tel: +44 113 279 5854 Email: sallyann@yeomanshield.com

NEXT ISSUE...

DECEMBER 2015

product news |75 HILTI TE 800-AVR WALL BREAKER

NEW SCHUECO SLIMLINE FAÇADE SYSTEM IS PASSIVE HOUSE CERTIFIED

W: www.hilti.co.uk/te800

E: mkinfobox@schueco.com

H

ilti has launched the TE 800-AVR, a tool described as “the most productive, powerful and portable wall breaker in its class” by a customer in a recent tool trial.

The new product maximises the potential of the company’s pioneering HI Drive technology which features dynamic transmission and electronic power steering – plus a superior lifetime, low-wear-rate carbon brush motor – to create 21 joules of high impact energy and a hammering frequency of 1,890 impacts per minute.

Hilti's Active Vibration Reduction (AVR) system results in the lowest triaxial vibration in its class at only 9m/s², enabling it to be used for 2 hrs 28 minutes before reaching exposure limit value (ELV).

Weighing 10.6kg, the tool’s wide range of demolition uses include: breaking concrete walls; exposing rebar on concrete piles; making openings for passing ducts, conduits or pipes and widening space around doors and windows.

T

he continuing drive

by Schueco to combine the slimmest possible face-widths with the highest possible thermal performance is demonstrated by the UK launch of the Schueco FWS 35 PD Panorama Design façade system.

This innovative new aluminium façade has a uniquely slim face-width of just 35 mm, yet the SI version is officially certified by the Passive House Institute with a Ucw value of 0.79 W/m2K. Visually very attractive, the system is ideally suited for low-rise, high-end residential and commercial projects.

A choice of two levels of insulation is offered – HI (highly insulated) or SI (superinsulated) – enabling the Schueco FWS 35 PD façade to offer real performance flexibility according to specification needs.

Kineprime – now with glass

Level up with Mapei’s new and improved Ultraplan Renovation Screed 3240

W: www.saniflo.co.uk

E: info@mapei.co.uk W: www.mapei.co.uk

T

he latest addition to the range of Kinedo shower cubicles from Saniflo is the Kineprime Glass model which features new, sleek interior glass panels.

The attractive white-framed cubicle combines glass interior and exterior panels with integrated shower tray, thermostatic shower valve, hose and handset and can be installed without the use of silicone. The glass panels slot together to offer a waterproof cubicle in a swift and efficient timeframe; often in just a couple of hours.

The upgraded model is expected to be popular for new house builds, hotels and guest houses whilst the other Kineprime models – with their sturdy plastic interiors continue to prove immensely popular in social housing, universities, colleges and worker accommodation.

M

apei’s Ultraplan Renovation Screed 3240 is a fibre reinforced self-levelling compound, specifically designed for the renovation or refurbishment of existing subfloors. The high coverage, low VOC screed can now be applied to a thickness of 3-40mm, in one application, and is suitable for prepared concrete, screed, stone, ceramic, timber (plywood, chipboard, plywood, parquet) and terrazzo.

Suitable for both commercial and domestic applications, Ultraplan Renovation Screed 3240 is ideal for smoothing and levelling floors ready to receive tiled finishes, resilient floor coverings or wood flooring.

It can also be used alongside capillary underfloor heating and electric undertile heating systems.

Mapei’s Ultraplan Renovation Screed 3240 reflects the company’s high environmental credentials and is rated GEV Emicode EC1 for low emissions of VOC, during mixing and working of the application. It provides an approx. coverage of 6m2 per 25kg at a thickness of 3mm.

MAPEI LAUNCHES ULTRABOND ECO VS90 PLUS TO ITS ESTABLISHED ECO ADHESIVE RANGE

NEW FLUSH-FIT DOWNPIPES ADDED TO MARLEY ALUTEC’S BIM OFFERING

E: info@mapei.co.uk W: www.mapei.co.uk

W: www.marleyalutec.co.uk

M

apei has added Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus to its range of Ultrabond Eco Adhesives.

Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus is a ready to use, light beige paste, which benefits from a fast, strong initial grab, allowing traffic after only 3-5 hours. This universal high temperature acrylic, wet-bed dispersion adhesive, bonds vinyl/rubber sheet and tile, PVC-backed carpet and luxury vinyl tiles with ease.

The adhesive can be used with underfloor heating systems.

Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus is extremely easy to apply with good peel strength with high resistant to shear stresses, with the added advantage of being a high temperature adhesive.

Ultrabond Eco VS90 Plus is solvent-free and classified as EC1 Plus under the GEV EMICODE accreditation system.

M

aintaining its position as the only rainwater systems manufacturer to offer its entire product range in BIM object format, Marley Alutec has added its new Flush-fit Downpipe sizes to its BIM offering.

The new addition complements Marley Alutec’s existing BIM object product portfolio. Enabling specifiers to design a complete rainwater or eaves system with just a few clicks of a button, the objects can be downloaded from the Bimstore website – the UK’s leading manufacturer specific BIM library.

Designed to offer increased options for a broad spectrum of properties, the new Flush-fit Downpipes have been introduced in response to customer demand for greater sizing variety. The new sizes build on the success of the existing 76mm circular and 72x72mm square options, which have proven extremely popular since their launch.

web directory www.wilplas.com

to advertise Siobhan Kissward 028 9078 3218 Contact... siobhankissward@greerpublications.com www.diamondsystems.co.uk

www.spanwall.com

www.calorgas.ie

www.1080.co.uk

www.flogasni.com

www.gqaqualifications.com

www.jncfence.com

web directory |77 www.nkfencing.com

www.acefixings.com

www.contractceilings.com

www.bestvaluegabions.com

www.whitemountain.co.uk

www.ridgefence.com

Whitemountain Quarries Ltd, 11 Sheepwalk Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim. BT28 3RD Telephone: 028 9250 1000 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 028 9250 1100

www.willisinsurance.co.uk

www.mccuskerdemolition.com

78| web directory www.matrexmatsandmatting.co.uk

www.heynwaste.co.uk

www.petal.co.uk

www.masterschoice.co.uk

www.tinnelly.com

www.cphire.com

www.hutchinson-engineering.co.uk

www.sdg.ie

web directory |79 www.mclarke.co.uk

www.balloohire.com

www.swissfacades.com

www.treemaintenance.com

www.pronetsafetyservices.com

www.swissfacades.com

www.gyproc.ie

www.yeomanshield.com

V B Evans & Company are pleased to have been chosen to undertake responsibility for the bi-monthly collation of this data and sponsor its publication.

With over 65 years of experience in business the firm provides a wide range of quality assured professional quantity surveying and other consultancy services to Northern Ireland clients who seek value for money and appropriate contract advice for their building design or refurbishment proposals.

The Specify Prices published here are representative of the market price of each building material, having been assessed from a variety of local sources which in the present competitive economic climate prefer not to be named. Readers are advised to verify individual prices with a local merchant for their particular needs since our prices are necessarily averaged for guidance purposes.

We hope that these pages may be of assistance to readers but would welcome any constructive suggestions for amendment to include information which would be appropriate to your needs.

Material prices at November 2015. Prices are exclusive of VAT. Discounts will apply.

This information is compiled specifically for Specify periodicals and is copyright.

Building Materials Prices

80 | prices AGGREGATES

CONCRETE BLOCKS

Full loads delivered Central Belfast 50mm Crusher run 100mm Crusher run Fine Blinding Coarse Blinding 6mm Stone 10mm Stone Building Sand Washed Sand

per tonne £15.00 £15.50 £14.50 £14.50 £16.50 £20.00 £20.00 £17.00

BRICKS

FINISHED SOFTWOOD

Metric-sized concrete bricks delivered

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. per 100m Parana Pine 20x8 £59.00 44x8 £91.00 Whitewood 32x12 £50.25 69x12 £79.00 32x19 £59.00 44x19 £71.00 32x32 £78.00 69x32 £133.00 69x44 £171.60 94x44 £224.00 69x69 £254.00

Facings Blanchardstown Antique Fergustie Country Mixture Richmond Mixture Irish Dacharne Devenish Ardagh Gold Textured Lismore Slate Textured

per 1,000 £372.00 £377.00 £337.00 £362.00 £337.00 £337.00 £327.00

NB Clay brick prices are not included because of the enormous variation in types, quality and prices from various sources.

CARCASSING TIMBER Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, not exceeding 5.7 metres. per 100m 50x19 £45.50 75x19 £68.20 125x19 £110.50 38x25 £41.50 75x25 £50.50 150x25 £99.50 50x38 £77.30 100x38 £117.30 150x38 £92.10 50x50 £92.20 100x50 £145.50 125x50 £165.50 100x75 £201.00 200x75 £455.00 150x100 £375.50

CEMENT Bulk Cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area per tonne Ordinary Portland Cement £136.00 Sulphate Resisting Cement £160.00

Ordinary Portland Cement

3 Pilot's View, Heron Road Belfast BT3 9LE Tel: 028 9045 7000 Fax: 028 9045 7040 Web: www.vbevans.com

Quantity Surveying Building Surveying Project Management CDM Planning Supervision

INDUSTRIAL AND FIRE-RESISTING BOARD Prices are exclusive of delivery.

Terms for SUPALUX non-combustible asbestos-free fire-resisting board - price per sheet up to 149m2

2440x1220

per tonne £350.00

CEMENT MORTARS In full loads delivered to Central Belfast

per tonne Standard 1 lime mortar £25.00 Tinted mortar ref.

Y4 £44.00 Y15 £51.00 Y135 £43.00 Y91 £53.00 Y10 £50.00

6mm sanded £49.50

9mm sanded £51.30

12mm sanded £68.00

MASTERBOARD Class O asbestos-free multi-purpose building board sanded finish.

Price per sheet up to 149m2 2440x1220

Bagged cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area

Chartered Surveyors

Metric-sized concrete blocks, delivered to Belfast area, full loads, mechanically off-loaded per 1,000 440x215x100 3.5N/mm2 £420.00 440x215x100 7Nmm2 £430.00 440x215x100 10Nmm2 £430.00 2 440x300x100 7Nmm £510.00 440x300x100 10Nmm2 £530.00 Concrete brick 15Nmm2 £400.00 440x215x100 Tolite £785.00

6mm £61.50

9mm £74.10

12mm £95.10

PLASTERING MATERIALS Per tonne, ex-works (delivery by arrangement) Lightweight aggregate pre-mixed gypsum plaster to BS 1191, Part 2.

Metal lathing undercoat Bonding Finish Gypsum plasterboard to BS 1230 per sheet (2400 mm x 1200 mm) 9.5mm thick plasterboard 9.5mm thick foil-backed plasterboard per bundle (6 Nr 1219mm x 406mm) 9.5mm thick plasterlath 9.5mm thick foil-back plasterboard per 100 lin. feet Galvanised standard angle bead Galvanised plasterstop (10mm) Galvanised external renderstop

£298.00 £355.00 £317.00 £10.00 £14.00 £16.00 £10.80 £10.00 £13.00 £26.50

In the next issue of READY MIXED CONCRETES Ordinary Portland Cement in full loads delivered to Central Belfast per cub. metre 1:10 by volume £64.00 1:2:4 by volume £78.00 1:3:6 by volume £70.00 2 20 N/mm :20mm aggregate £64.00 25 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £68.00 30 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £70.00

Fibre Cement Slates ex-yard per 1,000 £1500.00 £1600.00

Concrete tiles delivered Central Belfast Interlocking flat tile Double roll tile Single roll tile Half round ridge tile - 457mm long Angular ridge tile - 457mm long

£860.00 £860.00 £800.00 per tile £4.80 £5.40

SAWN REDWOOD Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths.

100x50 150x50 100x63 150x63 200x63 100x75 150x75 200x75

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes.

114x19 89x12 114x12 89x12 94x12

T + G Whitewood TG + V Whitewood TG + V Whitewood TG + V Redwood TG + Open V Redwood

£94.00 £69.00 £80.50 £98.50 £108.00

• Roofing & Cladding • Timber in Construction

STEEL REINFORCEMENT

ROOF SLATES AND TILES Thrutone Thrutone Relief

SOFTWOOD FLOORING, SHEETING AND PANELING

£222.00 £315.50 £241.00 £370.60 £504.00 £301.00 £453.20 £680.00

Mild Steel reinforcing bars to BS 4449. High yield steel reinforcing bars to BS 4449/4461.

One size, bent and labelled, per tonne, delivered to Central Belfast Diameter/mm Mild Steel High Yield

6 £686.00 £755.00

8 £686.00 £755.00

10 £686.00 £755.00

12 £686.00 £755.00

20 £686.00 £755.00

25 £686.00 £755.00

32 £686.00 £755.00

40 £686.00 £755.00 Mesh Fabric to BS 4483 ex-yard per sheet (one or mixed references)

per sheet BS reference A 98 £31.50

A142 £31.50

A193 £35.50

A252 £40.00

A393 £68.00

B503 £68.00

B785 £81.00 Heavy section steel ex-yard in lots of over 5T

per tonne UC 152x152x23 £895.00 203x203x46 £1183.00 254x254x73 £1265.00 305x305x118 £1130.00 356x368x153 £1300.00 UB 305x165x40 356x127x37 406x140x39 457x152x52 533x210x82

SAWN WHITEWOOD

£1130.00 £1130.00 £1130.00 £1130.00 £1130.00

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths.

50x25 100x25 150x25 275x25 75x50 125x50 175x50 250x50 100x75 200x75 250x75

£39.50 £73.50 £101.80 £189.60 £118.50 £202.40 £257.30 £438.40 £226.00 £492.00 £753.90

TERMS FOR GLASSROCK Non-combustible asbestos-free fire-resisting board - price per sheet up to 149m2.

6mm 10mm 12.5mm sanded sanded sanded 2400x1200 £49.50 £51.50 £69.00

UPVC DRAIN PIPES AND FITTINGS SOFTWOOD SHELVING Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes 119x12 144x12 169x12 219x12 119x19 144x19 194x19 244x19 269x19

£79.60 £94.80 £110.30 £164.30 £97.30 £129.10 £173.50 £234.50 £325.60

Pipes and fittings to BS 4600. List price ex-yard.

Large quantities will attract considerable discounts.

Plain sewer, per 6m Pipe coupler, ea Single oblique branch, ea Single swept branch, ea 45˚ short radius, ea 87½˚ short radius bend, ea 45˚ long radius bend, ea 90˚ long radius bend, ea Straight channel 45˚ curved channel, ea

110mm 160mm £10.50 £23.00 £3.50 £7.50 £11.00 £25.00 £12.00 £25.00 £6.20 £17.00 £6.20 £15.50 £17.00 £32.00 £19.00 £32.00 £18.50 £31.00 £23.00 £58.00

DECEMBER 2015

82| interview

Specify talks to Paul McKenna, Managing Director of Newry-based mac interiors...

“Don’t be afraid to hire people better than you...” corporation tax will have a positive effect on inward investment into Northern Ireland, but that alone will not attract USA blue chip companies. We need to ensure our universities continue to produce graduates suitable for the employers we are trying to attract.

The relocation of many UK law firms back offices to Northern Ireland due to the high number of law graduates available locally, has been a great success.

What needs to be done to help the NORTHERN IRELAND construction sector?

Did you plan to get involved in the construction industry?

Yes, I’ve always wanted to build things and played with Meccano as a kid. I became a professional Construction Manager then fell into the fast track commercial Interiors sector in London.

How did you start off?

personally. I won Building Magazine Project Manager of the Year 1993 and started a new business from scratch in 2002 with two people, growing the company to have 51 employees in 2014. Other highlights include turning over @55m and opening successful offices in four countries. I am also proud to say we have never had to lay anyone off or reduce salaries, even during the worst construction recession in history. I would also say retaining my current clients and staff for over 10 years has been a major achievement.

In my previous 15 years in senior management positions, I was regularly asked, why don’t you start your own business? After many years delivering successful projects for major companies, I decided I could do it better if I What was the best controlled my own company. Our piece of advice first project was for Teletech PLC in you’ve been given?

Duncairn Gardens, Belfast.

The best piece of advice I have been given is to hire people who are the best in their field and What have been the specialists in their profession. Don’t highlights of your be afraid to hire people better than career so far? you.

There have been many for me

What would you say to any students who are considering a career in construction?

I would say try to specialise (like we do) within a particular sector, obtain a relevant professional qualification and know the profession inside and out.

Most importantly talk to companies that have graduate training schemes – getting your foot in the door with a company can help springboard your career. You must realise that if you want to design skyscrapers you won’t find that job in Ireland. You may have to travel to gain experience but there will always be a demand for driven, talented construction professionals who are willing to work hard.

Do you think the construction sector needs more support from Stormont?

I think any decision to reduce

Local and central government need to follow and indeed improve on the model that has been operating in the Republic of Ireland for a number of years in order to attract the requisite levels of foreign direct investment required to stimulate the Northern Ireland construction sector. Recent stimuli such as the funding initiative announced by Invest Northern Ireland are to be welcomed but more needs to be done by Stormont – the delay to the proposed devolvement of corporation tax powers to local government needs to be addressed. A reduction in taxes/ rates/government charges for developers/investors who regenerate city centre areas, thus creating jobs within the industry and improving the building stock.

The creation of a Minister-led construction industry think tank staffed by actual business owners to tackle construction industry problems would also help.

Tell us something surprising about yourself...

I have completed the New York and London Marathons, numerous triathlons and cycled from Mizen to Malin Head twice. I have raised over @250k for charity and instilled a giving back ethos in mac interiors.