Specify Magazine: Feb 2018

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FebRUARY 2018

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For the second year in a row, Newry-based construction company O’Hare & McGovern have taken the ‘Overall Award’ at the Specify CEF Construction Excellence Awards.

The Awards Gala Evening saw the firm win the award for its work on the IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. The superb new 18,000 seater stadium received its official opening the day after the awards took place at the Culloden Hotel.

It was built within the confines of the existing Windsor Park which remained fully operational throughout the 98 week construction phase, facilitating over 200,000 spectators at 63 international and domestic fixtures. The work involved the demolition of the south and east stands, refurbishment and extension of the north and west In this edition of Specify, stands. we talk to some of

the prime movers in OHMG designed curved steel construction in Northern Ireland and ask them their thoughts on how the industry can progress and prosper in 2018. They all agree on the problems facing the industry, most of which can be attributed to our lack of government at Stormont.

There are a number of other issues that need to be addressed this year.

Barry Nielsen from the CITB gives his thoughts on the lack of apprentices coming into the industry and how it hampers progress. Padraig Venney from the NHBC tells us about the delays in planning permission for new homes from some of the new councils in Northern Ireland. Martin Hare, Chairman of the Construction Professional Council cites uncertainty regarding Brexit and the shockwaves from the collapse of Carillion as part of the problem.

But it’s not all bad news, there is plenty to look forward to. Our own John Simpson and CEF President John Armstrong report that in contrast to the potential reduction in current spending, the capital spending plans

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work at the interface of the North East and North West stands to form a Quadrant. This curved design helped to create a stadium to enhance the viewing experience of the speactators while at the same time mitigating the impact of noise on neighbouring houses outside the stadium.

Our congratulations go to the team at OHMG on their success.

There was also some cheer from the latest RICS report.

Building activity is still rising despite uncertainty in the economy, according to the latest RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and Tughans Northern Ireland Construction Market Survey.

Workloads were still rising in the third quarter of the year, according to Northern Ireland surveyors, with only a very modest slowdown in activity relative to Q2.

for the next few remained years are much Housebuilding a key improved on those of recent years source of workload growth, with and will have a welcome impact on private housebuilding activity the wider economy. Capital spending rising particularly strongly in 2019-20 may be over 40% (a higher than just two years earlier.

The capital budget now published gives spending totals for seven plans now regarded as flagship projects.

The seven projects place a heavy reliance on transport services and facilities. In the three years to 202021 just over £100m each year is earmarked for the A6, Belfast to Derry road. Spending on the A5, supported by the Irish Government with £25m each year, from Derry to Ballygawley (and then on to Belfast and Dublin) will draw on over £60m each year from 2019-20 onwards.

Large sums are earmarked for the Belfast Transport Hub which will give expanded and modern facilities for railway services and regional bus services. The transport hub expects to draw on £20m in 2018-19 and over £60m in each of the following years.

UPWARD TRAJECTORY House prices rose by a moderate but sustainable 3 per cent in 2017 and a number of large homebuilding developments across Northern Ireland have just been given the go ahead. Northern Ireland’s housing market continues to buck the overall

net balance of +48). Private Commercial activity was also rising relatively robustly (+23), according to the survey.

In contrast however, infrastructure workload growth remained weak (+5), and significantly below the UK average (+17).

Looking ahead, Northern Ireland surveyors are upbeat about the prospects for growth, with a net balance of +50% expecting workloads to be higher in a 12-month horizon.

Infrastructure spending is still relatively low in Northern Ireland and the latest developments in the ongoing York Road Interchange does not inspire confidence for the big government spending projects.

Economist John Simpson looks at the Programme for Government Strategic Investment Boards aspirations for next year and UK picture, see withpages prices 36 andand sales37. beyond…

activity continuing to rise and further increases expected, the latest RICS Pat Burns (Royal Institution of Chartered Editor Surveyors) and Ulster Bank Residential Market Survey suggests.

The UK housing market continued to display a lack of momentum in December, with buyer interest edging lower and surveyors displaying a lack of conviction surrounding the nearterm outlook for prices.

The Northern Ireland housing market by contrast appears to be entering 2018 on a firm footing. Northern Ireland respondents indicated that prices here continued on an upward trajectory in December, and local surveyors remain amongst the most optimistic in the UK regarding the near-term price outlook.

And whilst the newly agreed sales data eased back slightly in December, Northern Ireland surveyors indicated that interest from buyers rose. As a result, they expect sales activity to rise in the near term.

However, supply constraints appear to be evident, with new instructions to sell broadly flat in December, whilst new buyer enquiries rose – this indicates a gap between supply and demand.

Looking 12 months forward, the balance of Northern Ireland surveyors expects prices to be higher in a year’s time.

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FEbruary 2018

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DIGEST

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DIGEST

Craigavon’s new state-of-the-art £30 million leisure centre plans have been given a seal of approval by the local planning authority, paving the way for a construction start date early next year and full access for all in 2020.

Rhona Quinn, Chairperson of QMAC Construction Ltd, has been awarded an OBE in the New Year’s Honours list. Rhona’s award was in recognition of her service to the Construction Industry and the Community in Northern Ireland and comes after her period as President of the Construction Employers Federation.

10 DIGEST McCUE Crafted Fit has been recommissioned as fit out contractor for the new Acute Services Block at the Ulster Hospital in Belfast. The company has been subcontracted

by Graham BAM Construction to provide bespoke interiors and fit out for 126 bathrooms for the project, which is due to begin in March 2018.

16 JOHN SIMPSON The Civil Service has published helpful information which reduces (but does not remove) the uncertainty caused by the absence of political processes to allocate current spending budgets for the next three years and includes better capital spending than first expected.

20 BARRY NEILSEN “We are undoubtedly facing issues in the recruitment and training of our workforce.

Not enough young people are entering the construction industry and we are facing an aging workforce and retirement time bomb. We need to act now,” says the Chief Executive of the CITB NI.

22 RAY HUTCHINSON

Two stage tendering should be introduced in Northern Ireland, according to the Managing Director of Gilbert Ash.

24 MARTIN HARE As 2018 begins, several dark clouds have gathered to dampen enthusiasm and force a more cautious approach to the unfolding construction landscape, says Martin Hare, Chairman of the Construction Professional Council in Northern Ireland.

27 FOYLE COLLEGE

400-Year-Old Foyle College is celebrating a new chapter as they kick off the new year by relocating to their brand-new £27m campus.

35 PADRAIG VENNEY

The planning system in Northern Ireland is broken, says the new head of the NHBC in Northern Ireland.

50 GARY ANNETT Specify talks to Gary Annett, Chief Executive of the MJM Group.

• Tailored energy solution • Full design service • Technical support and guidance • 24-hour emergency call out We provide CPD courses. TO FIND OUT MORE Visit calorgas.ie • Email cpd@calorgas.ie • Contact: 028 9045 5588

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Contents |05

20 BARRY NEILSEN “We are undoubtedly facing issues in the recruitment and training of our workforce. Not enough young people are entering the construction industry and we are facing an aging workforce and retirement time bomb.

Foyle College

page 27 22 RAY HUTCHINSON Two stage tendering should be introduced in Northern Ireland, according to the Managing Director of Gilbert Ash.

50 GARY ANNETT Specify talks to Gary Annett, Chief Executive of the MJM Group.

• Tailored energy solution • Full design service • Technical support and guidance • 24-hour emergency call out We provide CPD courses. TO FIND OUT MORE Visit calorgas.ie • Email cpd@calorgas.ie • Contact: 028 9045 5588

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digest digest

Craigavon spearheads world Harvey Group acquires Solmatix£30m as part of 5 year class leisure centre after planning growth plan in UK and Ireland. go-ahead NI M&Enew services Craigavon’s stateof-the-art £30 million Newtownabbey-based leisure centre plans M&E services company, have been given a seal Group,by hasthe acquired ofHarvey approval local Northern Ireland renewable planning authority, energy specialists, paving the waySolmatix for a construction Renewables in astart movedate the early nextsay year full companies will and transform access for all in 2020. the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland and act The proposal, first as long-awaited a springboard for further put forward in 2010, is part of a expansion into the multiwider and ambitious regeneration million pound UK and Ireland programme across the Armagh City, renewable Banbridge and energy Craigavonmarkets.

Borough area. The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 The capital project ever thebiggest number of people employed undertaken Council, the in directly byby thethe Harvey Group new leisure centre will provide an Northern Ireland and Great Britain. enhanced facility to improve the With a turnover of £30 million quality of life and wellbeing of the and over 80 staff, Group whole Borough.

TheHarvey centre will be has over 30 years’ experience unique in in the region, offering indoor in outdoor the design, installation and from and leisure experiences maintenance a single site. of building services The facility, which will be situated within every conceivable kind ofat thebuilding site of type the existing Watersports throughout NI, GB Centre, adjacent to the Civic & and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Conference Centre and overlooking Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

company acquires renewable energy specialists

the company has grown to achieve a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff operating from its Nutt’s Corner premises.

As a result of the deal, Solmatix will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

“We have been planning to grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on a number of contracts, we’d always been impressed the South Lake, featureswith an impressive their engineering rigour and pool, eight-lane, 50-metre swimming professionalism. there a teaching pool, In funfact, pool andseemed a spectator gallery.synergy between to be a natural our two companies in terms of Oncewe complete, what do and Craigavon how we dowillit. host I one of the largest gyms the aisland approached Richard Bell on about of Ireland, with visitors enjoying year ago to float the idea of our companies coming together, but only if there was a good fit. After careful consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

beneficial. From my perspective, having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise. panoramic will have “Harveyviews.

GroupCustomers and Solmatix state-of-the-art equipment, spin and share similar by whichhealth I mean dance studios,values, an extensive and our commitment to professionalism, beauty suite, activity rooms, squash our desire deliver our services to courts and to a large sports hall suitable for variety of sporting activities. the avery highest standards, and the In addition towethe staffon that will run importance place treating our the facility, the project will create customers, our suppliers and our staff with courtesy and consideration.”

Richard Bell, the founder and managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

as great news for Solmatix, its customers, suppliers and staff.

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger more than 500 the to organisation willjobs giveduring us access construction phase. The construction enhanced technical skills, financial phase alone is also expected to resources and purchasing power. deliver an estimated £6.5 million Ultimately I believe thiseconomy, will lead in direct wages to the to greater growth andplacements investment apprenticeships, work and jobour opportunities the local within operations, for as well as community. more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

bidding for places on the framework.

McAvoy also finished top in the workstream WS1 for permanent or interim education and healthcare buildings, which means public sector production of Randox’s pioneering clients can award contracts medical diagnostic products directly and will to the company. also include associated administrative The Group has already secured its functions. The works are the first first scheme following its success on phase of a major– capital expenditure the framework an interim classroom project to develop project by forRandox Cardiff Council.

Thethe former Army Barracks buildingMassereene will accommodate 60 children at Court Special School into ‘Randox Science Park’for– three a years, to R&D help meet the rising demand futuristic and manufacturing for school facility.

Theplaces. award-winning, Commenting on this major international biotechnology firm, framework appointment, Eugene unveiled its plans Director for an innovative Lynch, Managing of The hub on the 43 acre earlier this McAvoy Group said,site “Our success in so many lots of this prestigious year. framework highlights the scope and Welcoming the announcement, quality ofHughes, the offsite solutions that Damien Director of TAL McAvoy can offer to public sector Limited commented: “We are clients across the UK.” delighted to have beeninawarded “An important factor our

appointment was our ability to develop virtual this contract with Randox, one of models of Ireland’s most dynamic Northern our exciting clients’ businesses on a local and buildings and global level. Through the quality to facilitate of our work and the dedication and more professionalism of our team TAL has informed decisiongrown over the last 34 years steadily making, enhance stakeholder and this and contract award reinforces engagement.

This of the strength of ourinnovative expertiseuse in the advanced technology helps clients healthcare sector.” to reduce risk, save time and really The project will beand delivered optimise the speed efficiency to BIM level 2 in partnership benefits of offsite construction.” with the design team Ostickfollows and The Group’s appointment a rigorous selection Rainey process,& which Williams Architects, Best, included a visit to McAvoy’s factory, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller a demonstration of itsand marketConsulting Engineers Charles leading virtual reality technology, Hutchison Consulting. and a thorough assessment of the Dr Peter FitzGerald,performance Managing of quality and technical

Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative diagnostics, to improve manufacturing efficiency to export high-value healthcare capabilities to world markets.

This state-of-the-art its offsite building systems for both permanent interima use. premises willand become centre of cutting-edge research, development The diagnostic LHC frameworks give public and manufacture, covering sector building clients the benefit of conditions such as cancer, stroke and faster and more efficient procurement, heart disease.

Weinstant will also provide best value pricing, access to a significant boost the local economy project data, the to reassurance of higher quality, guaranteed service levels, and through new job creation.

We very faster look project commencement. much forward to working The with Modular Buildings Framework can be TAL on this initial contract to deliver accessed in Scotland via the Scottish the high quality infrastructure we Procurement Alliance and in Wales require. ” Welsh Procurement Alliance. using the

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

NORTHERN IRELAND CONSTRUCTION COMPANY WINS PLACE ON £1Bn MODULAR BUILDINGS FRAMEWORK Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction The Dungannonbased McAvoy Group has been appointed to the LHC Modular Buildings Framework, which has a combined value of more than £1 billion. The LHC is one of the UK’s longestestablished public sector procurement specialists.

contract at Randox Science Park

McAvoy has secured the opportunity to provide permanent and bespoke WItH reputation for modularabuildings and interim facilities for education, healthcare and excellence in constructing high emergency servicestAL schemes across quality projects, Limited England, Wales and Scotland for the has been awarded a significant next four years. contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics McAvoy was successful company in 15 lots Randox. and achieved the highest scores for This initialbuildings, contractfactory is for the education processes, and for BIM, of outa of all facility companies construction new for

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digest digest

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SRC submits planning application Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as partinofmajor 5 year milestone for Craigavon growth plan in UK and Ireland.

Southern Regional College (SRC) has submitted plans NI M&E services company acquires for a new state-ofthe company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based the-art campus in turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, Craigavon.

Harvey Group, has acquired Northern Ireland renewable The move paves the way for energy specialists, a £45 million investmentSolmatix and theRenewables creation of hundreds of the in a move jobs and apprenticeship companies say willtraining transform opportunities in the energy region. sector the renewable in Northern Ireland and act SRC has already secured as a springboard for further planning consent for two new expansion into the campuses in Armagh and multiin million pound UK Banbridge, both of whichand are Ireland renewable energysites. markets. being built on existing

The acquisition, for an The Craigavonsum, development, undisclosed will bring to 110 which will be located nextemployed to the number of people thedirectly recently-approved £30 by the Harvey Group in million Craigavon Leisure Centre, Northern Ireland and Great Britain. close to the Craigavon Civic With a turnover of and £30 million and Conference Centre and overShopping 80 staff, Harvey Rushmere Centre,Group will has over years’and experience replace the 30 Lurgan Portadown in the design, campuses with ainstallation single newand campus. maintenance of building services The campus willconceivable help transform within every kind of education across the building provision type throughout NI, region, GB providing skills training and RoI,world-leading including Pharmaceutical/ and courses designed to support Cleanrooms, Laboratories, local and regional job creation and Education, Government employment opportunitiesand in key Healthcare . Richard Noraheconomic areas, includingand science, Anne Bell founded Solmatix manufacturing, engineering, ICT, Renewables in 2008, and since then

operating from its Nutt’s Corner premises.

As a result of the deal, Solmatix will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

“We have been planning to grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on a number of contracts, we’d always been impressed hospitality and tourism. with their engineering rigour and All three collegeIncampuses, professionalism. fact, therewhich seemed represent a totalsynergy investment of around to be a natural between £95 million, are supported our two companies in termsbyofthe Department for the Economy and are what we do and how we do it. I expected to be completed in 2020. approached Richard Bell about a year ago float the idea our SRC ChieftoExecutive, BrianofDoran, companies coming together, but only said: if there was a good fit. After careful “A concept first in 2009, consideration weconceived both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

renewable energy specialists

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

beneficial. From my perspective, having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise. this Craigavon campus represents an “Harveyopportunity Group and Solmatix enormous to support share similar values,generations by which I mean current and future to achieve their full in a our commitment topotential professionalism, fast-changing our desire to world deliverthat ourdemands services to commercially-focused flexible the very highest standards, andskills, the knowledge and training. importance we place on treating our

customers, suppliers and our “It will also our provide a modern andstaff with courtesy and consideration. innovative environment that will ” Richard Bell, theand founder and enhance business educational collaboration, support the delivery managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

as great news for Solmatix, its customers, suppliers and staff.

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger of new and exciting learning organisation giveentry us access opportunitieswill from level to enhanced technical skills, financial through to degree level and be used resources and our purchasing power. to strengthen partnership with communitybased organisations.

Ultimately I believe this will lead ” to greater growth and investment The planning submission theas within our operations, as iswell result of extensive pre-application more jobs and jobdialogue security.with It’s aa engagement and win-win relationship that’s good wide range of local and regional for our wholecommunity organisation, as and stakeholders, groups residents. well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

QMAC’s Rhona Quinn receives OBE

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction to be one of the most respected Rhona Quinn, contracting businesses operating in Chairperson of QMAC Ireland. contract Science Park Construction Ltd, at has Randox Speaking about the award Rhona been awarded an OBE in the New Year’s Honours list. Rhona’s award was in recognition of her service to the Construction Industry and the Community in Northern Ireland and comes after her period as President of the Construction Employers WItH a reputation for Federation. excellence in constructing high Rhona, is originally qualitywho projects, tALfrom Limited Carrickmore and nowalives in has been awarded significant Donaghmore, set up by herglobal first business contract (£3.1m) thirty years ago this year, she has been medical diagnostics company involved in Retailing, Publishing and Randox.

Construction.

With her husband Peter initial contract theRhona andThis a dedicated team isoffor staff, construction of a new facility for has grown QMAC Construction

production of Randox’s pioneering said, “This was a complete surprise to me, I had no ideaproducts that I was medical diagnostic andbeing will nominated I am delighted to also includebut associated administrative accept thisThe award as aare recognition functions. works the first of the hard work that the Federation phase of a major capital expenditure and everyone associated with it has project

by Randox develop the done through a verytochallenging former Massereene Army Barracks period”.

“Supporting community into ‘Randox the Science Park’ – isa also extremely important to us, Peter and I futuristic R&D and manufacturing feel privileged to be part of our local facility.

The award-winning, community and have always believed international biotechnology firm, in giving something back”. unveiled its plans forisan “Public recognition notinnovative something hub Ion the continued 43 acre siteRhona earlier thisit that seek” “but isyear. always pleasing when hard work andWelcoming dedicationthe is rewarded.

I am announcement, overwhelmed andDirector delightedofby the Damien Hughes, TAL number of kind messages Limited commented: “We of aresupport that I have received since the award delighted to have been awarded was announced.”

this contract with Randox, one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic and exciting businesses on a local and global level. Through the quality of our work and the dedication and professionalism of our team TAL has steadily grown over the last 34 years and this contract award reinforces the strength of our expertise in the healthcare sector.”

The project will be delivered to BIM level 2 in partnership with the design team Ostick and Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller Consulting Engineers and Charles Hutchison Consulting.

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Rhona Quinn

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Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative diagnostics, to improve manufacturing efficiency to export high-value healthcare capabilities to world markets. This state-of-the-art premises will become a centre of cutting-edge research, development and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and heart disease. We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation, we’re experts at matching both in construction management.

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

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digest digest

JAMES HAGAN WINS ‘OUTSTANDING Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year LEADERSHIP MANAGEMENT’ AWARD growth plan in AND UK and Ireland.

James Hagan, Chairman NI M&E services and Founder ofNewtownabbey-based Hagan M&E services Homes won company, the Harvey Group, has acquired ‘Outstanding Leadership andrenewable Northern Ireland Management’ energy specialists, Solmatix award at the Renewables in a UTV move the Awards at Belfast companies say will transform Waterfront. the renewable energy sector Hagan Homes in Northern Ireland was also “Highly and act as a springboard for further Commended” into the multiinexpansion the ‘Family Business of the million pound UK and Ireland Year’ category. renewable energy markets.

company acquires renewable energy specialists

the company has grown to achieve a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff operating from its Nutt’s Corner premises.

As a result of the deal, Solmatix will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

“We have been planning to Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

James Hagan established for some time, either organically undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, Hagan Homesofwith the employed or through the acquisition of an the number people assistance of his brothercustomers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey established player. Having worked directly by the Harvey Group in in-law Nigel Simpson, in “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Solmatix Renewables on NorthernCo. Ireland andinGreat Britain.

Ballyclare, Antrim of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d 1988.With a turnover of £30 million real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. always been impressed with and over 80 staff, Harvey Group organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix their engineering rigour and has over 30 years’ experience Under James’ leadership enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean and management Hagan professionalism. In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, Homes has become an services to be a natural synergy between maintenance of building award-winning company kind of Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to our two companies in terms of within every conceivable and has built almost 3,600 to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB homes across Northern within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our approached Richard Bell about a and RoI, including Ireland since it was Pharmaceutical/ James Hagan recieves the award from Maggie Beaufoy Head of HR, Thales more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff year ago to float the idea of our Cleanrooms, Laboratories, established almost 30 win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy and consideration. ” companies coming together, but only Education, Government and years ago. today direction of wasRichard a fabulous, inspirational froma the truth. for ourunder wholethe organisation, as my son Bell, the founder and iffurther there was good fit. After careful Healthcare Receiving the. Richard and NorahJamesy.

Jamesy is a strong leader businesswoman who taught me “We are a family business and our well as the economy of Northernand managing director of Solmatix ‘Outstanding Leadership and consideration we both agreed Anne Bell founded Solmatix he has a strong team around him. the ins and outs of business. She staff are part of our family. We have Management’ award, James Hagan, Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that thisloyal, would indeedteam, be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then was a natural visionary who was a very talented and I Chairman and Founder, Hagan Our team’s ability to adapt to an always able to see the bigger picture. want to thank each and every one Homes said: ever-changing market has been an She taught me everything I know of our staff, past and present. This integral part of our success. Hagan about leadership and management. award recognises the effort they “I am absolutely delighted to receive Homes is continuing to evolve and I owe her everything and I want invest day after day to deliver an this award. Accolades of this nature prosper by remaining true to its to dedicate this award to her. She’s exceptional standard of service.” can create the impression that family values - which makes me very been a transformative force in my Mr Hagan continued: “Sadly we lost the achievements are down to proud. I know it would make my life and subsequently in the Hagan an extremely important member of one person and in terms of Hagan production of Randox’s this contract with Randox, one of Directorand at Randox commented: “The mother father very proud too.”

Homes journey. our family last month. pioneering Homes’ success that couldn’t be “A journey that is most still continuing My mother Peggy. products Peggy and will medical diagnostic Northern Ireland’s dynamic development of Randox Science also include associated administrative and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create functions. The works are the first and global level. Through the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve phase of a major capital expenditure of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export project by Randox to develop the professionalism of our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of increase compared with 1.6%. annual growth Society, property in the UK futuristic R&D andprices manufacturing the strength of to our£124,535. expertise The in the cutting-edge research, development The average house London saw prices decrease 0.5% yearly rise was the slowest for ended 2017 2.6% higher.

For the first WItH for price ainreputation Northern facility. The award-winning, healthcare sector.” and diagnostic manufacture, covering annually, the average now £470,922. any calendar year since 2012. It time in 13 years, London was the Ireland rose by 2% last excellence in constructing high international biotechnology firm, The project will be delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and The strongest performer was the compares with a 4.5% increase in weakest-performing region. year to £131,989.

The quality projects, tAL Limited unveiled its plans for the an innovative to BIM level 2 in partnership heart Midlands disease. We will saw also prices provideupa West which 2016.

In December 2017, average province is still one of has been awarded a significant hub on the 43 acre site earlier this with the design team Ostick and significant boost to the local by 5.2% for 2017. The Southeconomy West For the first year since 2008, price in the UK was £211,156, a the cheapest places to contract (£3.1m) by global year.

Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, through new job creation. We very followed at 4.8%. property prices in the Midlands 0.6% month-on-month rise and purchase a property in medical diagnostics company Wales saw forward an increase of 3.3% with while and northern England combined contributed theannouncement, 2.6% yearly uplift.

Welcomingtothe Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller much look to working the UK. Scotland witnessed an increase of increased atEngineers a quickerand rate than The last Hughes, quarter Director saw prices fall in Randox.

Damien of TAL Consulting Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver 2.6%. in southern England, Nationwide Northern Ireland by 0.1%.

This initialtocontract is for Building the According Nationwide Limited commented: “We are Hutchison Consulting. the high quality infrastructure we highlighted, with a 3.6% year-on-year North east of England saw a 0.2% construction of a new facility for delighted to have been awarded Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park

Northern Ireland house prices rise to £131,989 average

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digest digest

06|

|09

MAJOR REFURBISHMENT PROJECT Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of TO 5 year MAKE PLACE FUTURE-FIT growth NINE plan inLANYON UK and Ireland.

The completion of the NI M&E services striking new lobby at Nine Lanyon Place Newtownabbey-based is the first part of an ongoing M&E services company, programme to make the Harvey Group, has acquired building future-fit.

prime office space set over six floors.

The refurbishment project, which is being delivered by Causeway the company has grown to achieve Asset Management, represents an a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff overall investment of £8million with operating from its Nutt’s Corner completion expected in Q4 2018. premises.

Nine Lanyon Place will be the second to be rated As a building result of intheBelfast deal, Solmatix by the internationally willWiredScore, continue to operate as an recognised real autonomouscommercial and independent estate rating system for digital company within Harvey Group connectivity. It follows Causeway’s BrianCertified Harvey, managing director Wired Chichester House of Harvey Group, said there was scheme that was announced in early a perfect fit between the two November. organisations.

Wired Certification enables agents and“We tenants findplanning accuratetoand havetobeen detailed a grow ourinformation renewables about involvement building’s digitaleither infrastructure for some time, organicallyand gives landlords an independent or through the acquisition of an

Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Nine Lanyon Place has aSolmatix significant Renewables in ahistory moveofthe place in the recent the companies willthe transform province, havingsay been first Grade A the officerenewable space to beenergy built insector Belfast following the signing of the Good in Northern Ireland and act Friday in 1998.

The as aAgreement springboard for further plans for an office on the expansion intobuilding the multisite were announced in November UK and Ireland ofmillion that yearpound and construction renewable energy markets. commenced in 1999 with completion The acquisition, for an in autumn 2000. undisclosed sum, will bring sq to ft 110 The building offers 150,000 of the number of people employed established player. Having worked directly by the Harvey Group in with Solmatix Renewables on Northern Ireland and Great Britain. a number of contracts, we’d With a turnover of £30 million always been impressed with and over 80 staff, Harvey Group theirHousing engineering rigourand and has over 30 years’ experience Pictured L-R are Stephen Fisher, CEO at Rural Association professionalism.

In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and Chris Martin, Head of Social Housing at Danske Bank. to be a natural synergy between maintenance of building services our two companies in terms of within every conceivable kind of what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB approached Richard Bell about a and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ year ago to float the idea of our Cleanrooms, Laboratories, companies coming together, but only Education, Government and if there was a good fit. After careful Healthcare . Richard and Norahconsideration we both agreed Anne Bell founded Solmatix that this would indeed be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then

RURAL COMMUNITIES TO BENEFIT FROM 287 NEW HOMES

Social housing developer the Rural Housing Association is set to create 287 homes in a £13m investment supported by Danske Bank.

means of

improving and company acquires renewable energy specialists

Acquiring the land to develop is the most challenging part of our work. There is a big demand from the Housing Executive for family housing, with the gap between supply and demand still a major concern. These new production of Randox’s pioneering homes will be a mix of two and medical diagnostic products three bed properties. ” and will also He include added:associated “We haveadministrative banked functions.

The Bank workssince are the first and with Danske 2011 they’veof backed on aexpenditure number phase a major us capital of schemes.

This to latest round project

by Randox develop theof investment will ensure are former Massereene Armywe Barracks able to deliver affordable housing into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a in rural areas for the next five futuristic years.” R&D and manufacturing facility.

The award-winning, Rural Housing Association was international biotechnology firm, established in 1992 to provide a supplyitsofplans readily and unveiled for available an innovative affordable accommodation. hub on the 43 acre site earlier The this Association works throughout year.

Northern Ireland, tackling Welcoming announcement, social housingthe shortages in Damien Hughes, Director of TAL disadvantaged rural areas.

The Limited commented: are company is located“We in Omagh and currentlytoemploys 16 awarded staff. delighted have been

promoting their buildings’ capabilities in a transparent way.

The certification is rapidly becoming a Pictured (L-R) is Damian Mitchell, property director at global benchmark Causeway Asset Management, Tom McClellan, national with WiredScore business development UK & Ireland at WiredScore, and currently having Danielle Hanvey, asset manager at Causeway Asset a presence in Management. the USA, UK, The refurbishment at Nine Lanyon France, Ireland, Place will deliver flexible fitGermany and most recently Canada, out options and accommodate where at the end of October seven Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth contemporary, open-plan working Toronto office buildings had already Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). areas, break out zones, private offices received the country’s first Wired and group meeting space. its as great news for Solmatix, beneficial. From my perspective, Certifications. customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our the chairperson of security.

NI WaterIt’sDr more jobs and job a A majorour5.3M Euro customers, suppliers and our staff Len O’Hagan said: - “This project cross-border project, ”to win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy and consideration. will enhance at source the quality improve water quality for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and of water for 1000’s of homes, in rivers and lakes well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix businesses, schools and hospitals in the Erne and Derg Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition across the region. catchment areas which “Innovation, sustainability and provide water that partnership are at its core. serves parts of counties Partnership between Governments Fermanagh, Tyrone, Donegal, Cavan, Leitrim on both sides of the border; partnership with the SEUPB who and Longford was are the principal funder of the launched recently. work; partnership between various government agencies; and most “The Thecontract “Source with to Tap” project this Randox, oneisof Director at Randox commented: significant of all partnership between funded byIreland’s the EU’smost INTERREG Northern dynamicVA development of Randox Science ourselves, the local community programme through the Special EU and exciting businesses on a local Park is core ourwhom plans the to create and all thosetofor natural Programmes Body (SEUPB) together and global level. Through the quality innovative diagnostics, toprecious improve environment is such a with funding from the Department of work andEnvironment the dedicationand and manufacturing efficiency to export resource. forour Agriculture, “Working healthcare together itcapabilities will help usto professionalism of our team TAL has high-value Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern to protect raw water quality at steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets.

This state-of-the-art Ireland and the Department source across both jurisdictions for Housing, Planning Local and this contract awardand reinforces premises will become a centre of by reducing the contaminants getting Government in thein the the strength of(DHPLG) our expertise cutting-edge research, development into the water in the first place and Republic of Ireland. healthcare sector.” and covering raisediagnostic awarenessmanufacture, of the importance NI Water is the lead Partner The project will be delivered conditions suchour as precious cancer, stroke and of protecting drinking working in collaboration with Irish to BIM level 2 in partnership heart disease.

We will also provide a water resource.”

Water/Uisce Éireann, Agri-Food and The project will to putthe community with the design team Ostick and significant boost local economy Biosciences Institute, East Border and stakeholder the Williams Architects, Rainey and & Best, through new job engagement creation. Weatvery Region, Ulster University The heart look of theforward work with farmers, land Rivers Trust, to explore Doran Consulting, Delap measures & Waller to much to working with managers, forestry providers and the improve local water and quality.

Consulting Engineers Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver wider community to help identify Hutchison Consulting. the infrastructure we and high sharequality best practice approaches Hosting the launch at Waterways Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require. ” to protecting drinking water sources.

Ireland headquarters in Enniskillen

5.3M Euro Cross-Border Sustainable Water Quality Improvement Project Launched (Erne and Derg Catchments)

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park Social housing developer the Rural Housing Association is set to create 287 homes in a £13m investment supported by Danske Bank.

Of the £13m investment, £4.5m has already been drawn down in the last year to buy properties and develop three sites that are WItH due to agoreputation onsite nextfor year. The remainder of investmenthigh will excellence in the constructing be usedprojects, to purchase sites quality tALfurther Limited for development, a 10 has been awardedincluding a significant unit dwelling on Rathlin Island, contract (£3.1m) by global over the following four years. medical Stephendiagnostics Fisher, CEOcompany at Rural Randox.

Housing Association, said: “Our This is initial is for the focus on contract delivering affordable homes to rural areasfacility with for a construction of a new population of less than 5,000.

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20/08/2014 16:45

10|

digest

McCue Secures Second Ulster Hospital Project MCCUE Crafted Fit has been recommissioned as fit out contractor for the new Acute Services Block at the Ulster Hospital in Belfast.

The company has been subcontracted

by Graham BAM Construction to provide bespoke interiors and fit out for 126 bathrooms for the project, which is due to begin in March 2018.

This is the second project at the Ulster Hospital for McCue who was previously contracted to fit out 288 bespoke bathrooms within the Phase B Inpatient Ward Block, as part of a £261 million pound investment that was completed in April 2017.

Les McCracken, Managing Director of McCue said, “We are delighted to be recommissioned as fit-out contractor for the new Acute Services Block at the Ulster Hospital in Belfast. This is a fantastic project for us and we are incredibly excited to supply the Ulster Hospital again with the finest infection control materials on the market.

“We will be using the ‘Corian’ solid surface material for the walls and surfaces of the bathrooms, because of its hygienic properties in addition to its durability. The product is thermoformed, with no seams or joints, allowing for tighter infection control with the proper upkeep and maintenance. This will be along with our bespoke joinery and other works.”

With over 60 years’ industry experience, Carrickfergus based

McCue Crafted Fit specialises in high quality refurbishment and fitting out, in addition to offering bespoke joinery services to a wide range of customers in varying sectors.

Les continued “This product is on the cutting edge of hospital infection control and McCue is a certified networkapproved provider of Corian in

Northern Ireland. The applications for this material are endless, with some customers even requesting the material to be used in their kitchens and bathrooms.”

Appointment of a new Managing Director at Creagh Creagh Concrete have announced the appointment of William Doherty as the new Managing Director at Creagh. William succeeds Seamus McKeague as MD while Seamus will become the new CEO at Creagh.

William has worked at Creagh for eleven years as Divisional Manager, becoming a Director in 2010. With a career spanning over four decades, his background is predominantly within the concrete, cement and quarrying industries. William is also currently president of the Concrete Society and chairman of the British Precast Flooring Federation.

The team at Creagh Concrete are

confident that William will provide the leadership to take Creagh forward, working with all staff, with the support of the Creagh board to cement their role as a market leader in the concrete industry.

Established in 1976, Creagh Concrete has grown to become one of the largest and most innovative producers of concrete products for a diverse range of market sectors throughout Ireland and the UK including construction; civil engineering; house building; gardening; and agricultural. Creagh designs, manufactures and supplies an extensive range of concrete products.

The company operates from its head office in Toomebridge, with bases in Ardboe, Dunloy, Draperstown and Magheraglass and also at Nottingham and Edinburgh.

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Hays |11

Innovation at the heart of ‘strategically important’ public transport project

By Mark Wade, Director at Hays Northern Ireland 2018 is set to be an important year for the construction industry in Northern Ireland.

We are now seeing tangible evidence of the change that’s coming to the capital city. The Belfast Agenda - an ambitious 20-year vision that aims to see an additional 50,000 jobs created in the city - is taking shape.

Plans to create a £90 million Belfast Rapid Transport (BRT) Service scheduled to be operational by September - will bring a “new kind of high-quality public transport system to Belfast”.

A key part of BRT is the £20 million Service Centre comprising workshop and stores facility in the Duncrue Street area of Belfast.

The project, now easily identifiable from its steel structure towers, will provide maintenance and parking accommodation for the new fleet.

Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway has described this as another step towards a “high quality, high frequency, sustainable public transport system for Belfast”.

The project utilised innovative ground stabilisation methodology to produce a value-engineered solution - setting the scene for the development of a great working relationship between Translink and Magherafelt-based Henry Brothers.

With a turnover of £70 million per annum, Henry Brothers has a 40-year track record working in the education, defence, commercial, industrial, transport and healthcare sectors.

Paul McLean, Henry Brothers Contracts Director for the Translink Project, said: “The working relationship with Translink has been built on trust and mutual respect from Managing Director level to Site Managers all playing their part in developing this relationship.

“It has been a pleasure working with a focused and knowledgeable client.

They have been integral in forming our construction team with a shared common goal of excellence.”

John Glass, Head of Project Delivery (Translink) said: “Translink are impressed with Henry Brothers’ performance to date in delivering this strategically important public transport project. This significant investment will provide a base for the new BRT Vehicles and a modern, fit-for-purpose maintenance facility supporting Translink’s bus operations across the province.”

He added: “Henry Brothers and Translink have developed a positive, collaborative working environment.

The Contractor and Design Team have brought considerable innovation and benefits to the overall project.”

Overall, it’s been a strong 12 months for Henry Brothers. The firm recently won the Belfast Telegraph Awards’ Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility gong for the second time and they also recently completed their ‘Altogether Stronger’ brand review which celebrates the firm’s values of integrity, dependability, highquality construction and innovation.

Closer to their main office in Magherafelt, Henry Brothers have been awarded £4 million scheme to deliver a new tactical training facility for Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service at Desertcreat. The firm is also delivering a new £50 million prison development at HMP Maghaberry.

The company aims to continue its “steady growth” in the Northern Ireland market.

“The outlook for 2018 is more positive for the company than it has been for some years and as more opportunities are presented growth and expansion will continue,” Henry Brothers Managing Director David Henry has said.

“There are still difficult challenges

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ahead as the UK and Northern Ireland go through major changes as we formally leave the EU and politicians from all sides must ensure that they cooperate to get the best deal for Northern Ireland.”

To find out more about opportunities

available in Northern Ireland or to meet with a Hays professional, visit www.hays.co.uk/northern-ireland/ or call 028 9044 6900.

For further information about Henry Brothers visit www.henrybrothers.co.uk

06| 12|

digest digest

LISBURN STEELacquires COMPANY SHOWS WAY Harvey Group Solmatix as part of 5 year FORWARD INinMANUFACTURING SECTOR growth plan UK and Ireland.

Lisburn-based KME Steelworks, the firm which recently secured aNewtownabbey-based Northern Ireland Chamber of company, Commerce M&E services High Growth of Harvey Group, Business has acquired the Year award, recorded Ireland renewable aNorthern 22% growth rate during energy specialists, Solmatix 2017. The growth follows Renewables in a move the new sub-contract business companies say will transform with existing clients the renewable Sandvik and energy Moffettsector and securing new customers in Northern Ireland and act such as CDE, Conveyortek as a springboard for further and Kingspan. expansion into the multi-

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

million pound UK and Ireland Directors Seamus Murchan and renewable energy markets.

Jason Quinn say they had expected The acquisition, for tough trading conditionsanduring 2017 undisclosed sum, steel will bring 110 due to increasing pricetoand the number of people potential Brexit related employed issues.

“Our growth based on directly by thestrategy HarveyisGroup in quality assured service and products Northern Ireland and Great Britain. andWith the best client relationship a turnover of £30 million management deliver, ” says Mr and over 80 we staff,can Harvey Group Murchan. “The growth of KME from has over 30 years’ experience 13 employees in 2013 to the current in the installationofand 66 is a design, clear illustration how maintenance of building services significantly quality and care factors within every conceivable kind of into success.

“The yeartype wasthroughout tough nonetheless building NI, GB and to extend our thanks andwe RoI,want including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008,AG and since then Tyrone-based

the company has grown to achieve a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff operating from its Nutt’s Corner premises.

As a result of the deal, Solmatix will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

“We have been planning to Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). for some time, either organically as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition an KME Steelworks directorsofSeamus Murchan (Front left) and Jason Quinn (front customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey right) mark the Having end of aworked high growth year with staff at the Lisburn plant. established player.

“In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Solmatix Renewables on of ‘business as for usual’. in manufacture the However, construction “2018 promises to be no less to our customers for their loyalty that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d industry and in sub-contract steel challenging as we plan with the and continued custom. We also thank acquire real terms, being part of this larger otherwise. always been impressed with fabrication.” will give us access to support of Group Invest NI further our dedicated workforce for their organisation “Harvey andfor Solmatix their engineering anda quality significant investment in plant, commitment to rigour providing enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean professionalism.

In fact, there seemed KME Steelworks notably created the equipment, training and recruitment customer service. resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, to be a natural synergy between steel formwork for the foundations of more staff.

Ultimately this will lead our deliver services of the newI believe Wear Crossing bridge at Wedesire are ontotrack to our continue on to Thetwo 2017 figures continue our companies in termsaoftrend toSunderland greater growth the highest andinthe due toand beinvestment completed in thevery growth pathstandards, particularly the showing 23% yeardoonit. year what we do andgrowth how we I 2018. our operations, as well as areas of precast mould design and since 2012.Richard Bell about a within importance we place on treating our approached more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff year ago to float the idea of our win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy and consideration.” companies coming together, but only for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and if there was a good fit. After careful well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix consideration we both agreed Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition that this would indeed be mutually

500 years of Staff Service for AG (Acheson + Glover) celebrated a combined long service of almost 500 years at its Long Service Awards, which took place in Cookstown.

As part of AG’s ongoing commitment to employee wellbeing, the initiative was introduced to reward and recognise staff.

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park

The awards were attended by 32 employees who had contributed between 10 and 50 years of service each - totalling an impressive 482 years altogether since the WItH a reputation forcompany was founded in 1960. excellence in constructing high Each member of staff was recognised quality Limited for their projects, loyalty andtAL commitment has been awarded a significant through a special gift and enjoyed a contract global Hotel. celebratory(£3.1m) lunch at by Greenvale Stephen Acheson, Commercial medical diagnostics company Director at AG commented: “It was a Randox. pleasure to recognise and every This initial contract iseach for the one of the employees at our Long construction of a new facility for Service Awards. The construction

production of Randox’s pioneering medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative functions. The works are the first phase of a major capital expenditure project by Randox to develop the former Massereene Army Barracks into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a futuristic R&D and manufacturing facility. The award-winning, international biotechnology firm, unveiled its plans for an innovative hub on the 43 acre site earlier this year. sector is renowned for having a high turnover of staff we are honoured Welcoming theand announcement, to have Hughes, a workforce that is Damien Director ofdedicated, TAL hardworking and incredibly Limited commented: “We areloyal – choosing to remain with us year after delighted to have been awarded year.”

this contract with Randox, one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic and exciting businesses on a local and global level. Through the quality of our work and the dedication and professionalism of our team TAL has steadily grown over the last 34 years and this contract award reinforces the strength of our expertise in the healthcare sector.”

The project will be delivered to BIM level 2 in partnership with the design team Ostick and Williams Architects, Best, “On behalf of AG I Rainey want to& express how incredibly proud we&are of each Doran Consulting, Delap Waller of our long-service ” Consulting Engineersemployees. and Charles Established in 1960, AG is a producer Hutchison Consulting. of hard landscaping products in the Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing UK and Ireland. Now an employer

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Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative diagnostics, to improve manufacturing efficiency to export high-value healthcare capabilities to world markets. This state-of-the-art premises will become a centre of cutting-edge research, development and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and heart disease. We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through very of morenew thanjob 420creation. people, We across much look located forwardattoFivemiletown, working with nine sites Dungannon, Ballygawley, TAL on this initial contractBirmingham, to deliver Magherafelt, Carryduff, Toome,we the high quality infrastructure Pomeroy require. ” and Derry it remains a family-run business.

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20/08/2014 16:45

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|13

digest

Quintain and McAleer & Rushe sign £130m contract for 553 new homes at Wembley Park Quintain has awarded McAleer & Rushe a major construction contract to deliver 553 new homes at Wembley Park. The £130m contract will see the delivery of the second phase of the South West Lands development, following the successful award of the first phase of works, worth £55m, which is due for completion by the contractor in Q3 2019.

Of the 553 new homes, 114 will be affordable, split between affordable rent and shared ownership. The remaining 439 will be rental homes managed by Quintain’s wholly owned build to rent operator, Tipi. Residents of South West Lands will benefit from a centralised ‘hub’ building – located only nine minutes by train from London Marylebone, as well as an

onsite gym, library, resident’s lounge and concierge service leading out to a podium garden.

The £130m contract marks McAleer & Rushe’s third contract at Wembley Park and takes the overall contract spend with the contractor by Quintain to £212m. McAleer & Rushe, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, is also on site delivering the 312 bedroom Premier Inn hotel which is due for completion ahead of schedule in Summer 2018.

Eamonn Laverty, Chief Executive of McAleer & Rushe said: “Marking our largest contract to date, we are delighted to be here today celebrating the signing of the £130m deal for the second phase of South West Lands. This is our third contract with Quintain since 2016 and the project cements our partnership with them as a trusted member of their Main Contractors framework. The signing reinforces our position as one of the leading design and build contractors in the High End Residential and Private Rented Sector and we look forward to further involvement in the wider Wembley Park masterplan.”

L-R Eamonn Laverty (Chief Executive of McAleer & Rushe), Angus Dodd (Chief Executive of Quintain), Martin Magee (Managing Director of McAleer & Rushe), Matt Voyce (Executive Director of Quintain) and Seamus McAleer (Chairman of McAleer & Rushe) at the signing.

GBHP and the South Eastern Trust celebrate the topping out of Ulster Hospital’s Acute Services Ulster Hospital’s new £95 million Acute Services Block, the largest live healthcare project in Ireland, has celebrated its topping out with the last piece of the structure being

placed at the top of the building.

Led by the GRAHAM-BAM Healthcare Partnership, a joint venture between GRAHAM Construction and BAM, the Acute Services Block is part of the South-Eastern Health and

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Social Care Trust’s wider redevelopment plan for the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald.

The eight-storey, 31,000 sqm building incorporates specialist wards, support services, assessment unit, inpatient imaging department, and a new emergency department.

The scheme has been designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent and uses flat slab construction to integrate the structure with its services and the clinical spaces. The building’s high thermal mass reduces operational running costs and the delivery of the structural and acoustic solutions will further support the healthcare services.

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functionality in order to deliver the highest quality of care to patients.”

The GRAHAM-BAM Healthcare Partnership was appointed to the Trust’s four-year, construction framework in 2013, and has already completed work on phase B2 of the hospital’s £261mredevelopment programme, the Inpatient Ward Block, which took the ‘Overall Award’ at the 2017 Construction Excellence Awards.

GRAHAM Construction is part of the GRAHAM Group, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading construction, asset management and project investment businesses.

In 2017, the company increased its turnover to £565 million and was named ‘Major Contractor of the Year’ at the annual Building Awards in London.

Peter Reavey, Director, at GRAHAMBAM Healthcare Partnership said: “This topping out is an important construction milestone, showing how well the new facility is progressing.

We remain on track to deliver this important facility for the Trust to the highest quality.

Drawing on our experience of delivering worldclass medical facilities, we will ensure that this building will push Richard Pengelly, Hugh McCaughey, Roisin Coulter, Colm the boundaries McKenna of design and

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16| JOHN SIMPSON

Better capital spending than expected for 2018-2021

by John Simpson

John Simpson

Belfast is to get a new transport hub. Pictured at the launch of the new Glider bus is Ciaran de Burca of Infrastructure, Lord Mayor Belfast Nuala McAlister and Chris Conway,Translink Group Chief executive

Whilst Northern Ireland still lacks an agreed government programme to allow the political parties to form a new Executive, there is growing pessimism about the impact of the absence of decisions on changing public policies for certainty about funding for wellestablished programmes and policies. The Civil Service has published helpful information which reduces (but does not remove) the uncertainty caused by the absence of political processes to allocate current spending budgets for the next three years.

Using the figures published by the Treasury as part of the UK budget, the NI Civil Service has set out the amount of NI spending that, if formally allocated, would observe the Treasury constraints.

There is an extensive analysis of different options for the allocation of current spending. Each of the three options continues the tight squeeze on current spending that has been in place for several years. Current spending in 202021 is predicated on, at best, a slight reduction in real terms in the money available. The updated annual allocations are: 2017-18 £10,448m 2018-19 £10,651m 2019-20 £10,582m After allowance for the expected cost of inflation, in this period in real terms spending will fall by over 2% each year. (These figures include £130m in each of the later years as a consequence of the DUP confidence and supply financial support and exclude the allocation for pensions and social security items in AME: annually managed expenditure).

The limits on current spending, on

their own, set a difficult allocation problem for whichever institution has responsibility for budget management.

The Civil Service has also put together a useful presentation on the availability of capital funding.

For the construction industry this capital budget is an important

signal of its prospects in the next three years. In contrast to the flat-lining and squeeze on current spending, the capital budget looks more optimistic.

The published estimates of available capital funding for the public sector are: 2017-18 £1,105m

Work on the A6 continues

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JOHN SIMPSON | 17 2018-19 £1,410m 2019-20 £1,588m 2020-21 £1,527m

spend as well as several schemes to improve the ‘public realm’ in some towns.

The capital spending plans include, in 2018-19 and in 2019-20, (in each year) £200m as part of the DUP deal with the Government and £25m as a contribution to the A5 from the Irish Government. In 2019-20 and 2020-21 they include £75m each year to invest in improved Broadband reception.

As the main Department engaged in attracting direct foreign investment, the department for the Economy has been allocated only £81m in 2018-19 but this increases to over £145m in each of the later years. Of the £145m in those years, £75m is earmarked for Broadband investment. Capital commitments for private investment assistance are, therefore, fairly stable.

In contrast to the potential reduction in current spending, the capital spending plans are much improved on those of recent years and will have a welcome impact on the wider economy. Capital spending in 2019-20 may be over 40% higher than just two years earlier.

The capital budget now published gives spending totals for 7 plans now regarded as flagship projects.

The 7 projects place a heavy reliance on transport services and facilities. In the three years to 2020-21 just over £100m each year is earmarked for the A6, Belfast to Derry road. Spending on the A5, supported by the Irish Government with £25m each year, from Derry to Ballygawley (and then on to Belfast and Dublin) will draw on over £60m each year from 2019-20 onwards.

Large sums are earmarked for the Belfast Transport Hub which will give expanded and modern facilities for railway services (including a major expansion in rail platform capacity) and regional bus services. The transport hub expects to draw on £20m in 2018-19 and over £60m in each of the following years.

The other flagship projects are: • New Mother and Children’s hospital: £185m over the next three years •

Desertcreat public services college: £42m in three years

•

New regional stadia: £89m in three years.

The other big capital spending Departments are the Department of Education which is expected to draw on at least £165m each year and the Department for Communities (DfC) where over £180m is earmarked each year.

The DfC has listed a number of public buildings in need of capital

The availability of capital transactions capital, available mainly as repayable loans, is another element in the use of capital funds. There will be over £180m each year for allocation in this way. This tends to be allocated for specific projects and, sharing in the allocations, claims are expected from the Departments of Agriculture, Communities, the Economy and the Executive Office.

There is one further source of capital funding. The Department of Finance has recently (November 2017) launched a £100m NI Investment Fund which will be directed towards promoting investment, jobs and the strengthening of the economy. It will be managed on a commercial basis by CBRE. No allocations have yet been approved.

The overall prospects for capital spending in the next three years offer a much more buoyant picture than has been experienced in recent years. It contrasts sharply with the squeeze on current spending. Of course, Treasury rules, and good practice, mean that switching funds from capital to current is not usually allowed.

The Civil Service document also indicates that there is also the possibility that an incoming NI Executive might exercise the option to increase the amounts borrowed for capital projects.

The existing arrangements with Treasury leave that as an option although the document does draw attention to the consequences of increased indebtedness and associated repayment costs. Given the extra funds released as part of the DUP-Government deal, the immediate pressure for further borrowing may be resisted.

For an incoming Executive the

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Clarity needed on future Government spending

Construction Employers Federation Managing Director John Armstrong commented on the recent statement by the Department of Finance on the 2018-20 Northern Ireland Budgetary Outlook…

“The statement is welcome in that it charts a very clear budgetary path for the next three financial years in respect of how Northern Ireland’s capital budget could be spent. It is vital that this kind of budgetary planning takes place, both for industry and Government, especially as the last twelve months have led to complete uncertainty as to the spending profile in future years.

“The statement does, however, very clearly detail hard part of budget management still lies in balancing the current spending budget. That remains a formidable challenge.

Work expected to start on the A5 during 2018

the challenges presented as a result of the huge investment going into the Flagship projects over the next 3 years even though the overall capital budget is going up.

These are challenges that the industry has consistently said need to be reassessed, while we also note that the capital budget is entirely predicated on the capital money from the Conservative-DUP deal flowing as early as April. Any delay in this, accompanied by the expenditure on the Flagship projects, could present huge challenges for the bulk of our industry given its predominately small and medium sized contractor base.

“As we have said in evidence we have submitted to a Northern Ireland Affairs Committee inquiry, neither the construction industry, nor the Government Clients, can afford to be in a position in March, never mind once the financial year has actually started, of still not having a legislatively approved budget.

We are aware that Clients have now been asked to put forward how they would prioritise capital investment in 2018/19. So that this process can be done as efficiently and effectively as possible, it is vital that the 2018/19 budget be approved in January or, at worst, by mid-February and that, in the context of the ongoing impasse at Stormont, that Westminster must assume this responsibility will fall on them.

“We have long said that the Secretary of State must now bring clarity. Decisions need to be prioritised and taken and a clear and accountable way of government taking these decisions needs to be established. Our preference is, of course, the establishment of a Northern Ireland Executive. However, failing that, we need to move to a position where the functions of government can be exercised in a way that any other part of these islands would expect as a matter of course.”

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20| Barry Neilson

Moving the Construction Industry Forward in 2018

By Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI N McShane Lambert, Smith Hampton

On thinking about how the NI Construction industry can prosper in 2018 it is difficult to see beyond the critical issues of the NI Assembly and its influence on our sector.

Not to mention the unknown impact of Brexit without a clear political strategy, from either a functioning NI Assembly or Direct Rule.

This has an effect on every aspect of the construction sector from creating the right economic conditions through to investing in the maintenance and development of our infrastructure as well as policy decisions and support in recruiting and educating our future workforce. And as for Brexit, our industry will suffer from any barriers to working outside the boundaries of NI in any direction.

CITB NI’s role is to encourage skills development and training of the local construction industry and to encourage young people to enter into the industry. There is no

doubt the political stalemate has impacted on some of the issues that are very important to us as organisation.

We are undoubtedly facing issues in the recruitment and training of our workforce. Not enough young people are entering the construction industry and we are facing an aging workforce and retirement time bomb. We need to act now.

In terms of recruitment, I have often listened to employers reflect on the difficulty in recruiting the next generation of our workforce.

This has been impacted by the image and perception of the industry to those who are looking to start their career. In recent discussions with local construction employers, there is definitely a feeling that we have fallen behind some other sectors in terms of how we promote construction to the next generation of talent.

Working together with employers

Barry Neilson

and industry federations we are aiming to completely review our approach to attracting talent. The discussions are at an early stage

but what is clear is that we need to communicate directly to people through various methods, including better use of social media, to

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Barry Neilson | 21 position the industry as one that provides a career and routes to prosper rather than “a job”.

Our aim is to promote the reality of construction as a sector where technology and management combine with core construction skills to develop and deliver the world we all live in. We need to regain our image as the sector that underpins all other areas of our life and literally shapes the towns and cities we live in. Construction has built the world around us and developed landmarks that will outlive those who constructed them. Construction is a rewarding industry with a variety of opportunities on offer from project management to onsite roles with prospects for career enhancement and good earning potential. It is also global industry that can give opportunities for travel and working in other parts of the world, or help employees become a vital part of maintaining their local community.

The construction industry can provide the pathway from craft skills to strategic management (and often does). There are many opportunities within the industry and we need to get this message to the next generation. And we need to do it now.

But what happens if we are successful and we have people knocking at the door to join this great endeavour?

There is no doubt that our industry has the training and qualifications structures to support the learning and development of individuals both through full-time and part-time education.

Our FE (both Colleges and private providers) and HE provision is more than capable of meeting the demands of our industry. However whilst the right structures and support are in place the links between training, industry and Government need improved to make sure that these combine effectively to encourage young people into the industry and help support them progress through it.

There are many “initiatives” out there to help people get ready to enter the work place. There is an equal amount helping to get “entry qualifications” for our sector and of course the drive to get people into apprenticeships, degrees and beyond. My worry is that quite often the link between these initiatives is often broken or

not readily available. This brings us back to the issue of political direction and accountability. We need our decision-makers back to review, analyse and direct resources to ensure the different parts of the educational chain join up and provide meaningful support to individuals and the industry as a whole.

Our industry has embraced the principle of management contracting with operational skills being delivered by a long tail of sub-contractors. There is no judgement on whether this is good or bad for our industry, there has always been an element of this. However the recent issues highlighted by Carillion may bring a lot of debate around the benefits and pitfalls of this arrangement.

Skills Development Within industry, skills development is becoming polarised with craft skills being predominantly developed by small to medium sized companies and contract management tending to feature within the medium to large companies. We need both areas to be skilled. Traditionally many of our senior managers are “grown”

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from those that start life as apprentices. This is a good thing and promotes understanding of the industry from the bottom up, providing the industry continues to train and develop our individuals in partnership with the provider network. Where this works, it works well. In parallel, those who enter the industry from University need to be given the time and opportunity to develop an appreciation of the skills they manage and direct to ensure the decisions they take enhance the process.

We need companies to employ trainees, whether apprentices or graduates, employers need to embrace the need to train and develop these people for the future. It is not enough to give people short term work experience, we need to employ directly at all levels and invest in our collective future. As an industry we can’t avoid taking the initiative and developing our future workforce ourselves. I know that this also requires those who procure and commission work to support this by avoiding the race to the bottom price and this is where we cannot achieve our goals without the support

of a coordinated and supportive political structure.

We have, sadly, seen the outcome of cutting costs, materials and skills development in our industry which affects us all. We have to get the message across to our clients that continuously driving cost down, without proper assessment of what is reasonable, often means driving down skills, quality and diligence as well. We need the support of our stakeholders to achieve a well-designed and well-built environment for all within our society through professional and competent commissioning of projects.

This coming year CITB NI will be looking at how we support skills within the industry. We review our Grants and support schemes every year, but this year we will be taking a deeper look at what the industry needs for now and the future. In consultation with employers we will aim to ensure what we do is helping build the skills we need now and in the future. This may require us to use existing support schemes better, or build new interventions to help attract and train the skills industry needs at the right levels.

22|MD Gilbert Ash

“Two-Stage Tendering should be introduced in Northern Ireland” Specify talks to Ray Hutchinson, MD of Gilbert Ash and next President of the CEF about the problems and prospects for the construction industry in 2018.

Q: Are you noticing any upturn in the construction industry in Northern Ireland?

The construction industry has undoubtedly experienced growth in Northern Ireland in recent years, with several surveys and research confirming that this is the case. It points to an industry well beyond its 2012/13 low point and one that is showing a welcome balance in growth across the industry’s various constituent sectors.

Growth in the private sector has been driven in particular by new hotels and student accommodation schemes, with an increase in private housing also contributing to the upturn in construction. We must ensure that this growth is sustained into 2018 and beyond. In the public sector, the 2018-20 Budget Outlook document published by the Department of Finance pre-Christmas presents significant challenges for the vast majority of local firms not engaged on the Northern Ireland Executive’s Flagship projects. While these

schemes are clearly vitally important, a balance must be struck in budgetary planning between how much resource is spent on these and other areas, such as roads maintenance.

Q: How is Brexit affecting Gilbert-Ash? As every company knows, the only constant in business is change. As a business, we have been planning over the last several months, to mitigate against the potential risks from Brexit, but also to look at potential opportunities and how we might capitalise on these. On the riskside, many of our materials are sourced and supplied from the EU, and there has been an increase in input costs due to currency rate fluctuation. However, we haven’t seen any reduction in commercial opportunities. Following the financial recession, we completely restructured and refocused our internal processes to make the company more resilient in the face of future market volatility. Part of our 3-year strategy was also to focus on key sectors where we knew we could deliver a really

high-quality service.

A strong key account management strategy has allowed us to build on relationships with our partners and Ray Hutchinson, MD of through this Gilbert Ash to win repeat business. Our international focus has also put us in a strong position. We’ve also been awarded FCO contracts for projects in Budapest, Ghana, Sri Lanka and France.

It should also be recognised that although Brexit will precipitate changes in the industry, we think that the changes brought about

by Digital Transformation will have a much greater impact. It is clear that the way in which the industry operates will change dramatically in the next five years, with some job roles ceasing to exist. As a company we are assessing how different technologies could improve efficiencies and enable us to run a more profitable business.

Q: Are you suffering from a skills / apprentice shortage?

The construction sector is suffering from a severe skills shortage across many key roles.

Our real concern for Brexit is in relation to access to skilled labour supply from within other EU countries, as it would cause difficulties for our industry if we lost access to this pool of employees. According to the Labour Force Survey, non-UK nationals make up 12.6% of the construction workforce, although this differs by region. In London this figure rises to 50%.

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MD Gilbert Ash | 23 relates to abnormally low value tenders, but it is reassuring to see that local public-sector procurement bodies are now recognising the problem and they are considering changes which will hopefully lead to improved margins. The level of pricing we see presently is not sustainable, and something must change as this is not good for anyone, the client, contractor or their supply chain.

One solution is the introduction of a twostage tendering process, which is frequently used in Great Britain. The two-stage process means there is less reliance on price, more of a focus on the quality of what you are going to deliver, and your approach to working with the client.

All of these are hugely important and put a greater focus on value for money.

Q: Is the lack of government in Stormont affecting your business?

Student accommodation to be built on GT Patrick St, by Gilbert Ash

The construction sector also has much work to do in attracting young people into the industry, as it definitely has an image problem.

There are many misconceptions about the construction industry, and a strong message needs to be communicated to explain that there is a wide variety of roles and opportunities on-and-offsite, where young people can build a successful, varied and exciting career. We also need to attract more women into the industry, and again this comes down to showing the variety of roles available. Gilbert-Ash also proactively collaborate with Womens’tec who run training courses on construction-related disciplines, to encourage women

into non-traditional roles.

At Gilbert-Ash we are particularly proud of our track record in encouraging more females into the industry, as our workforce is 21%, where the national average is 11%. However in this respect, we all still need to do better. This will be a core focus during my time as President of the Construction Employers Federation, and we must work together as an industry to address these challenges.

Q: What are the biggest difficulties affecting construction in 2018?

One of the main difficulties in the industry in Northern Ireland

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Although most of our business has come from outside Northern Ireland in recent years, companies and businesses are definitely better served when local decision makers are on hand to move business forward and help solve any issues in the domestic market.

The construction industry would certainly benefit from a stable Executive; local politicians could help bring clarity to the apprenticeship levy situation in Northern Ireland for example and expedite projects such as the York Street Interchange. Local political support would enable the Northern Ireland construction industry to build long-term strategies and have confidence in their business going forward. There needs to be a clear approach to addressing a number of issues such as skills shortages, levies and the sustainability of a longer-term pipeline of work across Northern

Ireland.

Q: Are you now concentrating your business on England and beyond?

In 2013 we took a strategic decision to proactively grow our business outside Northern Ireland which has been extremely successful. Having this focus has enabled the team to win multimillion pound contracts to deliver landmark UK projects such as the National Army Museum, Liverpool Everyman Theatre, Bartlett School of Architecture and Liverpool Philharmonic Hall.

We have placed a focus on building relationships with key partners and building our brand in London. We have also made progress internationally, particularly through our long-standing relationship with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and we have now delivered British Embassy projects in 43 countries across the globe. We are certainly very proud of the company’s roots in Northern Ireland and maximise all opportunities within our home market too. Our recent work on the AC by Marriott Hotel, part of Belfast Harbour’s City Quays development, has been a highlight for us, and the employees have enjoyed delivering their skills on a Northern Ireland project. We are also working on a 474-bed student accommodation project for Olympian Homes on Great Patrick Street.

Q: What is your opinion on Carillion?

It is really devastating news for both direct and indirect employees of the firm and its supply chain.

Although it has no immediate impact on Gilbert-Ash, the situation has brought the sector into the news for the wrong reasons and we need to deal with some of the challenges and issues that led to Carillion’s demise.

At Gilbert-Ash we have a strong supply chain charter so that our suppliers know what to expect from us. It enables us to build effective relationships and ensures that suppliers are paid on time and fairly. Companies cannot take huge risks for high turnover; they instead must value their supply chains and build strong mutually beneficial relationships with them.

24|Martin Hare

A BUOYANT OUTLOOK IN A RISKY MARKET Martin Hare, Chairman of the Construction Professional Council in Northern Ireland gives his thoughts on the year ahead…

The construction industry has One year ago, I began my term as Chairman of the Construction Professional Council (Northern Ireland) on an optimistic note.

After years of crippling recession, it was clear the construction industry was experiencing a resurgence in activity. Several sectors were either delivering or planning to execute major works and the true barometer of recovery measured by private sector confidence, appeared to be on an upward trend. Yet as 2018 begins, several dark clouds have gathered to dampen enthusiasm and force a more cautious approach to the unfolding construction landscape namely – • The protracted suspension of the Stormont Executive continues to frustrate everyone. While the difficulties faced by our elected representatives are considerable it must be continually emphasised that no progress in this area suffocates the re-emergence of a healthy construction sector.

Northern Ireland’s public purse continues to be stretched and therefore it is essential that the

allocation of funds and strategic direction of projects is driven by local Ministers who are invested in the future of this region. Our civil servants have nursed the situation admirably however we need devolved government and “business as usual”. This imperative becomes critical in the context of Brexit.

• Brexit and its effect on the Northern Irish economy continues to loom large for our Construction Industry. As the UK continues to explore an equitable withdrawal from the EU we must be acutely aware of how this will manifest between the Republic of Ireland & Northern Ireland. This issue is complex, however we must insist that the final resolution is constructed around sound economic and business sense.

Northern Ireland has always been a small peripheral player on the European stage however by being the only part of the UK to share a land border with a EU state we might be able to leverage a position which transforms our small country into a very attractive proposition for outside investors.

Such “special status” would be felt in all sectors and none so than a resurgent construction market. There are both risks and opportunities which brings me to my 3rd point …….

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• The recent collapse of Carillion has send shockwaves through the industry.

As the second largest construction firm in the UK they appeared “too big to fail” and yet thousands of staff and multi-million pound contracts did not prevent their demise. Recent news reports appear fixated on “greedy” executives driven by self-interest coupled with a government which failed to manage a worsening situation.

Both perspectives make for interesting “sound bites” and yet I believe they do not address the

underlying issues, in particular, unrealistic risk transfer. Irrespective of your opinion on Private Finance Initiatives they have heralded an expectation by government that all risk and liability can be outsourced to the private sector at a price. The simple fact is that risk is a creature best controlled by sensible management and not unreasonable risk transfer.

When factored into competitive tendering it transforms the current Invitation to Tender (ITT) process into an Invitation to Gamble (ITG).

This fuels litigation and in this context only lawyers win. As the construction industry becomes increasingly sophisticated it is

becoming easier to track, report and mitigate risk in a cost effective manner however it does require the appropriate allocation of risk and shared liability.

In conclusion I believe risk management may emerge as the primary driver for 2018.

Taking a few risks might allow our Assembly to reconvene, managing a few risks might optimise the opportunities presented by Brexit and appropriate allocation of risk would definitely avoid a Carillion situation manifesting with one of our long established contracting firms or even consultancy practices for that matter.

Carillion – not too big to fail…

The collapse of Carillion will have knock on effects right across the construction industry in both Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The UK’s second-largest construction company buckled under the weight of a £1.5bn debt.

Locally, Carillion’s collapse into liquidation sparked fears for over 200 jobs in Northern Ireland as well as for its suppliers.

It is a major contractor for the Housing Executive, NI Power and has contracts in the Republic of Ireland. The UK Government has warned of a “cost to the taxpayer” over the collapse. Carillion is also responsible for the heating of 38,000 Housing Executive properties, and the building maintenance for 22,000.

In early January it was revealed the firm was trying to sell off tens of millions of pounds in Northern Ireland Housing Executive contracts along with the rest of its business across Ireland. The company went into administration in mid January 2018.

Alexander Wood, Partner in the Insolvency and Business Recovery team at law firm Coffin Mew commented: “Perhaps fearing a public backlash over using taxpayers’ money to support a private company, the Government has clearly decided that Carillion should not be another example of ‘being too big to fail’. Consequently, it has not strong-armed Santander, HSBC and other lenders or investors into providing further risky loans to bail the firm out.

“On the other hand, it would be interesting to learn what assurances were given to Carillion, if any, as the Government continued to award it large contracts in the face of repeated profits warnings. Questions are already being asked about this and the Government may have to admit to some uncomfortable shortcomings.

“Carillion’s liquidation raises the spectre of knock-on distress and insolvency along the supply chain. Not all subcontractors and suppliers will have the resilience to survive the disruption to their cash-flow and there will inevitably be casualties.

They should take professional advice immediately to identify strategies to avoid or mitigate any structural or financial issues.

“However, this situation is an opportunity for Carillion’s competitors. Public-sector contracts will likely be taken on directly, meaning employees used for those contracts can transfer across automatically.

“The collapse of Carillion serves as a stark warning to the construction industry. It indicates that no company is ‘safe’ – regardless of size or turnover. But on a deeper level, it raises concerns for the future of the industry, maintenance of public services run by Carillion and the Government’s allocation of contracts. Interesting times lie ahead.”

digest

25

Specify talks to Niall McNulty, the new Business Development Manager at Co-Ownership…

Niall McNulty Business Development Manager at Co-Ownership

Experience: I have worked for Co-Ownership since 2013, starting out as an Acquisitions Officer, then progressing to an Operations Lead and recently being appointed to my current role as Business Development Manager.

Responsibilities: As Business Development Manager I work to promote Co-Ownership with developers, Mortgage Brokers and Estate Agents amongst other stakeholders in order to help their customers get onto the property ladder. I advise stakeholders of changes and new developments within Co-Ownership and maintain longterm relationships with new and existing stakeholders. Additionally, I facilitate industry-focussed training sessions for financial advisors, mortgage brokers, property developers, estate agents and others about Co-Ownership, its services and information of importance to the prospective

home-owners they deal with on a regular basis.

What is the current state of house-building in Northern Ireland?

There continues to be a lack of new-build stock throughout Northern Ireland. With demand from first-time buyers increasingly favouring low maintenance and energy-efficient living, this will inevitably lead to rising house prices making it more difficult for first-time buyers to access funding.

In the last financial year, 37-percent of homes purchased through Co-Ownership were new-build.

What is the outlook for housebuilding in Northern Ireland in 2018?

There is short term optimism amongst the key players locally.

We can see that many have committed to large-scale schemes and housing developments which will be coming to market throughout the year.

Beyond this year there remains uncertainty. There are a number of factors affecting the local market,

not least the prospect of further interest rate rises, Brexit and the lack of a devolved government.

Are there signs of improvement for house-building in Northern Ireland?

According to government statistics, the 6,400 completions in the 2016/17 financial years represents a 12% increase on 2015/16. So, the rate of new housing supply in Northern Ireland is showing encouraging signs. But, this still falls short of the 13,400 completions of ten-years ago, a level that was typical before the housing crash of 2008. New housing supply is improving, but it is still well short of what is required.

What is the current relationship between housing supply and demand in Northern Ireland?

The Northern Ireland Housing Market Symposium estimates that we’re still around 2,000 houses short each year. Many in the housing sector would go as far as to say that this figure is potentially underestimated. Local estate agents are reporting strengthening

demand, but that supply is not keeping up.

It’s important to recognise that many of the challenges faced within the housing sector are not just challenges pertinent to housing supply. Demand for new housing, particularly from firsttime buyers, has been constrained since the financial crisis by low and variable wages, high levels of personal debt and the length of time it takes to save for a deposit – these are all constraints that Co-Ownership deal with daily.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MARKET REMAINS RESILIENT AS NORTHERN IRELAND CONTINUES TO ATTRACT A DIVERSE RANGE OF INVESTORS The commercial property market in Northern Ireland finished 2017 in a strong and resilient position with a total investment volume figure of £340.9m, 24 per cent above 2016 and just above the five-year average, according to new research published

by Lambert Smith Hampton.

The Investment Transactions Northern Ireland Bulletin Q4 2017 showed the retail sector dominated once again in 2017, following a consistent trend since 2010.

Transactions were boosted significantly by Wirefox’s £123m

purchase of CastleCourt Shopping Centre (NIY 6.27%) in July 2017.

Investment volume in the last quarter reached £88.6m, a robust performance compared to the other post-referendum quarters.

Almost £231m of retail assets changed hands in 2017, with other notable transactions including the £27.7m Tesco Extra, Newry (NIY 6.00%), the £21.4m Tesco in Craigavon (NIY 6.97%) and the £11.1m Valley Retail Park (NIY 8.25%). Five Iceland supermarkets were also sold during 2017, ranging from £700,000 to £1.3m.

The office sector is traditionally second place in terms of investment volume, but at £35.8m the alternative sector surpassed it in 2017. In recent years, an

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increase in demand for specialist long-leased assets has occurred, with gyms, hotels and student accommodation transacting more frequently.

Neil McShane, director in the capital markets division at Lambert Smith Hampton, said: “The 2017 figures overall demonstrate the continued Niel McShane, Director Lambert, Smith attractiveness of the Northern Hampton Irish investment market to a variety of investors. However, “With the first stage of the they also reveal the mixed picture Brexit negotiations complete, between sectors. The retail sector reassurances about the impact was considerably boosted by one on the Irish border and the deal and the office performance acclimatisation to the lack of was consistent with 2016. On Stormont Executive, we expect the other hand, the industrial and that investment activity in 2018 alternative sectors are growing will be more consistent and less steadily. turbulent than early 2017.”

Foyle College 400-Year-Old Foyle College is celebrating a new chapter as they kick off the new year by relocating to their brand-new ÂŁ27m campus.

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Specify/ Project Profile/ Foyle College

Foyle College 400-Year-Old Foyle College is celebrating a new chapter as they kick off the new year by relocating to their brand-new £27m campus The state-of-the-art college, located on the Limavady Road in Derry, welcomed the first batch of pupils through its doors on Monday 8th January, with the rest of the 815 pupils following throughout the week. The non-denominational grammar school dates back to 1617, when it opened at Society Street within the city walls.

Heron Bros was the main contractor on the £27m project which has enabled the co-location of Foyle College and Ebrington PS & Nursery in three separate new-build replacement schools at the former Clooney Army Base site. Historically the site was the ‘home’ of American Navy, and played a key role in the Allied Forces’ battle plans in World War II. High-tech education facilities were delivered for the new grammar school providing 13,056m² of permanent teaching accommodation, grass pitches, five synthetic tennis courts and a 3G pitch for a capacity of 850 students. Ebrington Primary School is 3,050m² in area and provides 16 classrooms for a capacity of 440 pupils. The separate nursery unit is 328m² and caters for a capacity of 60 pupils.

The works were completed in sections, with the Primary School and Nursery and their associated external works completed first. Phase one was completed in February 2017, with the primary school and nursery being occupied with staff and pupils in March 2017. Phase two was completed in December 2017 with staff and students occupying Foyle College in January 2018.

Foyle College Foyle College involved the construction of a new 2 and part 3 storey educational facility which is linked to the single storey Ebrington Primary School. The College includes general and specialist classrooms, public reception facilities, administrative offices, library, sports hall/gymnasium/fitness suite, changing

facilities, catering facilities, locker facilities, storage, circulation and other ancillary/services accommodation etc.

The accommodation consists of: – Foundations – Steel frame – In-situ and precast concrete flooring – Masonry concrete panels in prefinished render – Facing brick and feature natural limestone rainscreen cladding – Aluminium window and curtain walling systems – Rooflights – Low pitched roofs built up metal systems covered in single membrane and paving system – Mechanical & Electrical Installations Ebrington Primary School Ebrington Primary School involved the construction of a 16 classroom and associated ancillary accommodation in a single storey building of load bearing masonry with a timber trussed roof construction. The Primary School is linked to Foyle College sharing both the kitchen and energy centre facilities.

Ebrington Nursery School Adjacent to the Primary School there is a separate Nursery unit of similar construction/finishes to the Primary School. The Nursery unit provides 52 places in two classrooms with

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associated facilities. Externally both the Primary School and Nursery are finished in pre-coloured render walls with a slate type pitched roof/ single membrane roofing system to flat roofs. Fenestration comprises aluminium window and curtain walling systems/rooflights.

Siteworks The enabling works for the project required major civil engineering earth and preparation works for the construction of three new educational buildings and associated groundworks and hard and soft hardscaping.

The site required a significant level reduction, rock excavation and fill to accommodate the new school accommodation and siteworks.

Works to the site included: – 120,000m³ of inert material excavated – 80,000m³ used as fill onsite – 40,000m³ removed from site to a licensed waste facility – 4,500 lorry loads of waste material transferred and managed by the Heron Bros project team – 60,000m³ of rock extracted – 35,000m³ rock used as fill on site – 25,000m³ of rock crushed and

processed on site to be used as hard standing.

Other siteworks included hard and soft play areas, MUGA pitch, including earthworks, civil infrastructures and utilities, car-parking, roads, footpaths and landscaping. Works also took place outside the boundary in creating of new access and egress points.

First class efforts to protect the environment included a carbon offsetting landscaping plan which involved planting 1,000 trees and shrubbery on-site.

The project includes two separate installations of Solar Photovoltaic Panels which is a great renewable energy source which generates no pollution and no greenhouse gas emissions.

LED lighting is present throughout the build, including flood-lit playing fields. LED lights are up to 80% more efficient than traditional lighting such as fluorescent and incandescent lights.

The project features a large rainwater harvesting plant which helps reduce water usage. Rainwater harvesting is the collection, filtration, storage and use of rainwater from the building’s roof. Integrated into the normal

Specify/ Project Profile/ Foyle College drainage system, water is easily intercepted and diverted to where it is required such as flushing toilets and watering the landscaping.

Sub contractors on the project included Michael Nugent Ltd Mechanical Services, Carella Laminates, HM Electrics, Raemac Interior Systems and Omagh Aluminium.

Many classrooms have automatic natural ventilation out into the atrium areas to control temperature and CO². Atriums have high level auto opening roof windows to operate like a chimney to draw air through classrooms.

Using passive solar design, the large open spaces (Agora) throughout the college flood the building with natural light.

Foyle College Principal Patrick Allen described the new campus as “state of the art”: “It’s just indescribable, words fail me.

We have 25 acres of grounds, a maximum capacity of 850, a fantastic music suite, a sports hall, an arts suite, state of the art classrooms and technology that’s ready for the 2020s never mind 2018.

We’ve been treading water for a very long time waiting on this build.

It’s really going to make a massive impact on learning and teaching for the 21st century.”

“It has been a huge team effort over a very long period of time to get us to where we are today, in this building with these marvellous technologies. It really is exciting times at the school and I’m getting a real buzz from seeing the kids walking around today goggle-eyed, but also from the staff who have put in so much work to get ready for this move. Everyone worked

really hard to get the new classrooms set up and to see them buzzing and excited about the new technologies and facilities available to us is extremely rewarding.”

Robin Young, chairman of the board of governors, said it was an exciting time for the school.

“They’re all very excited. Obviously moving house, you’re excited the first time you move in. To have the school on one site is a first for many years for Foyle and certainly the staff will appreciate not having to move between the old junior school and the senior school two or three times a day as was the case before.”

Damian Heron, Group Managing Director of Heron Bros commented, “Heron Bros is delighted to handover this marvellous campus to Foyle College and Ebrington Primary School and Nursery. We have enjoyed a very positive relationship with the schools and the entire project team which enabled us to deliver a highquality project ahead of schedule.”

“Although it has just been completed, the project is already award-winning.

The £27m campus picked up the prestigious accolade of the ‘UK’s Most Considerate Site 2017 for £10m – £50m Projects’ at the Considerate Constructors Scheme National Site Awards. Heron Bros was acknowledged for demonstrating the very highest level of consideration in respect of the community, environment and workforce.”

“We are incredibly proud of our whole project team and their dedication to operating our construction site to such a high standard. We look forward to see what the future holds for the schools and wish the staff and pupils success and happiness in their new home.”

Mechanical – Michael Nugent Ltd

Roof Decking – Composite Design

Electrical – HM Electrics

Flooring – CB Contracts

Steelwork – Walter Watson

Plastering & Screeding – Hill Contracts

Windows & Doors - Omagh Aluminium Systems

Painting & Decoration – AGD Painters

Roofing & Cladding – Thornton Roofing

Doors – Shannon Fire Doors

Ceilings & Partitions – Raemac

Ironmongery – KCC

Sports Pitches – Tony Patterson Sports Grounds

Surfacing – Patrick Bradley Ltd

Toilet Cubicles & Fitted Furniture – Carella

Metalwork – AMET Engineering

NORTH STONE revised:Layout 1 22/02/2010 13:54 Page 1

Precast Floors & Stairs – Quinn Building Products

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Blinds – Bracken Blinds

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Specify/ Project Profile/ Foyle College/ Michael Nugent Ltd

2 Tandragee Road Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone BT70 3DS Email: info@michaelnugent.co.uk michaelnugent.co.uk

What we do

Michael Nugent Ltd specialises in mechanical and electrical services and facilities management. Our disciplines are backed with over 50 years in the business, so we know how to deliver the most skilled and professional service to each of our clients.

Michael Nugent Ltd | 2 Tandragee Road, Pomeroy, Co. Tyrone, BT70 3DS Tel: (028) 8775 8617 | Fax: (028) 8775 8983

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Our services are designed, tailored and installed to meet the client’s exact requirements, and our successful delivery is showcased in the range of leisure centres, hotels, educational facilities, medical centres and ecclesiastical buildings on which we have worked. Find out more about our disciplines below.

Specify/ Project Profile/ Raemac Interior Systems/ Foyle College

Interior Systems

Raemac Interior Systems

Raemac Interior Systems carried out all Metal Stud Partitions, Bulkheads and drylining as well as Suspended Ceilings at the new Foyle College.

Raemac were established in 2004 and has its headquarters in Dungiven with offices in Dublin and London.

The company specialises in Metal partitions, Suspended ceilings, Drylining Metsec/SFS – Steel Framing

System and Joinery work.

The company is well experienced in working on high end projects and is involved in the Education, Healthcare, Hotel, Leisure, Offices and Retail sectors.

From the company was first started in the business progressed from being a sole trader establishment, it grew a wealth of experience in the sector. Having completed many prestigious projects in various sectors throughout the UK and Ireland, Raemac have gained a good

foothold in the fitout sector. With our turnover of work increasing year on year.

“At Raemac we to try to keep business as simple and understanding as possible. We have learned the only way to make this happen and be a market leader in what we do is having positive relationships with our clients, and this ensures repeat business,” said Raemac’s Ruairi McCloskey.

“Raemac is committed in the long term to being a safe and sustainable organisation in what we do and what we build, working with Herons for well over 10 years.

“The Education sector is very important for Raemac Interior Systems, we are continually looking at ways with our partners to improve acoustics within the teaching areas and the workmanship we offer ensures the client achieves the maximum of the manufacturer’s recommendation for the least amount of cost.

“We have notably completed quite a few sizeable projects in this sector

Raemac Interior Systems 2 Garvagh Road, Dungiven, Co. Derry, BT47 4LT info@raemac.co.uk raemac.co.uk

most recently Foyle College’s new facility and previously several primary, secondary and third level education projects throughout Ireland and the UK. We are very proud of our continued working relationship with Heron Brothers, being a leading construction company in the UK and Ireland, we are glad to have them as a client.

You can learn more about our company on www.raemac.co.uk

Raemac is committed in the long term to being a safe and sustainable organisation in what we do and what we build.

Head Office: / Raemac Interior Systems /2 Garvagh Road/ Dungiven/ Co. Derry / BT47 4LT

T+: 44 (0) 28 7774 1000

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Specify/ Project Profile/ Omagh Aluminium/ Foyle College

aluminium

Omagh Aluminium Systems at Foyle College OAS Ltd were appointed as the specialist faรงade sub-contractor on this new ยฃ31m shared campus. The works involved the supply and installation of aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling systems to both the new college and the adjacent nursery & primary school buildings. It is expected that there will be up to 1,400 pupils between the two schools.

Gortrush Industrial Estate Great Northern Rd Omagh, BT78 5EJ info@oasltd.net oasltd.net

Working with Heron Brothers Ltd, OAS Ltd designed, fabricated and installed all glazing systems which have provided the modern look of the new glazing facade. The design team also made use of the latest innovations in thermally efficient glazing systems and implemented secure by design standards to these systems, making the faรงade design as modern as the building itself.

We offer clients a full design, fabrication and installation service to deliver the most complex of facades. Our expertise on large scale construction projects provides our customers with the confidence and resources they need to create the best possible faรงade solutions, utilising a variety of curtain wall products.

Gortrush Industrial Estate, Great Northern Rd, Omagh, County Tyrone BT78 5EJ

T+: 028 8224 6871 / E: info@oasltd.net

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Specify/ Project Profile/ H. M. Electrics/ Foyle College

ELECTRICIAL H. M. Electrics Ltd H.M. Electrics were appointed as the main electrical contractor on this exciting new ÂŁ31m shared campus. The scope of their works involved the supply and installation of the switchgear and lighting as well as an impressive roof mounted PV installation.

In collaboration with Heron Brothers Ltd, H. M. Electrics undertook the mammoth task of lighting installation across various areas of the college including the floodlights for the multiple sports pitches found around the site.

They were also responsible for the college’s CCTV installation which made up a small section of the miles of CAT 6 cable which was installed around the site.

The team at H. M. Electrics had planned every move when it came to energy efficiency and even went as far as to install an Energy Centre for the school. Other parts of the project worth highlighting include Lighting protection installation which

95 Glen Road Maghera BT46 5JG T: 028 7964 2112

includes surge protection.

The exterior lighting really does help the build to stand out as the innovative, forward thinking project it promised to be and the installation of the external bollards with integrated lights really does put the finishing touches on the new Foyle College.

HM Electrics are based in Co. Derry and were responsible for the cabling, telephone system, lighting and electrics at Foyle College. Established over 40 years ago, H. M. Electrics is an approved NICEIC contractor providing Electrical testing throughout UK.

enquiries@hmelectrics.com www.hmelectrics.com

Head Office: / 95 Glen Road, Maghera BT46 5JG

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Specify/ Project Profile/ Carella/ Foyle College

Laminate Systems Carella Laminate Systems Carella Laminate Systems were awarded the contract by Heron Bros to manufacture and install all the fitted and bespoke at Foyle College and Ebrington Primary School. This work included the reception areas, display cases, classrooms, laboratories, washrooms, sports changing areas and student/staff concourse areas.

a 70’ wide screen monitor behind specially designed sliding whiteboards and have integrated shelving and cupboard storage.

Carella also manufactured and installed the ‘Grab and Go’ snack and refreshment area which acts as a focal meeting point for both staff and students.

Carella Laminated Systems is proud to have worked with Heron Bros on such a prestigious contract, one of the largest school projects delivered in NI. That this was delivered

Carella produced bespoke designed unitry and worktops for all the different departments. Music rooms with instrument storage, Technology Suites, IT suites and HE and Science Labs. Work surfaces ranged from oiled hardboard through laminated worktops to Trespa science benching. The Sports department includes all the changing benches, cubicles, showers and vanity units.

All classrooms have interactive teaching walls, these units house

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within a 2 year timescale seems incredible, and is a testament to the whole team who pulled together to produce a fantastic school building.

11 Campsie Industrial Estate, McLean Rd, Eglinton, Londonderry BT47 3XX info@carella.com carella.com

Sign up to CIS FREE to get 10 project views each month and receive a tailored email alert of projects specific to you. Contact us on: Construction Information Services (CIS) is the market leader in supplying All-Ireland construction opportunities. We provide fully researched real-time information on construction projects from pre-planning through to on-site stages. *This project listing was generated on 26th January 2018.

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CIVIL AND UTILITIES ProjectID Title

Stage

Category

Value

County

Contract Awarded Tender

Civil and Utilities Civil and Utilities

€15,000,000 £5,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Antrim

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site On Site

Commercial Commercial

€16,179,150 €120,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

On Site Contract Awarded

Commercial Commercial

€110,000,000 £3,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Londonderry

Stage

Category

Value

County

Contract Awarded

Community and Sport

£76,000,000

Co. Antrim

Tender Contract Awarded

Community and Sport Community and Sport

£3,000,000 £2,313,703

Co. Down Co. Antrim

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site Contract Awarded

Education Education

£35,000,000 £29,000,000

Co. Armagh Co. Fermanagh

Tender

Education

£17,700,000

Co. Fermanagh

Stage

Category

Value

County

850579 €16m - Change of Use - Hotel Development 872897 £7m - Hotel Development 814216 £25m - Student Accommodation

On Site

Hospitality

€16,000,000

Co. Dublin

On Site On Site

Hospitality Hospitality

£7,000,000 £25,000,000

Co. Down Co. Antrim

876540 £15m - 4 Star Hotel & Spa Complex

Tender

Hospitality

£15,000,000

Co. Londonderry

Stage

Category

Value

County

Tender Tender

Industrial Industrial

£2,250,000 £1,750,000

Co. Antrim Co. Tyrone

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site Contract Awarded

Medical Medical

€27,860,175 €15,479,300

Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

On Site

Medical

£56,455,291

Co. Antrim

Stage

Category

Value

County

805555 €26m - Housing Development

Contract Awarded

Residential

€26,415,000

Co. Dublin

896502 £3.6m - Housing Development

Tender

Residential

959061 €15m - Refurbishment of Airport Retail Space Framework 918135 £5m - Car Park

COMMERCIAL ProjectID Title 921552 €16m - 3 Motor Dealerships 805017 €120m - Boland's Quay Development 821211 €110m - Capital Dock Development 905330 £3m - Supermarket Development

COMMUNITY AND SPORT ProjectID Title 663138 £76m - Casement Park Redevelopment 805027 £3m - New Community and Indoor Sports Facility 951562 £2.3m - Integrated Design Team Framework Contract

EDUCATION ProjectID Title 876240 £35m - College Development 827148 £19m - College Development 899496 £17.7m - Post Primary School

HOSPITALITY ProjectID Title

INDUSTRIAL ProjectID Title 971520 £2.25m - Landfill Site Restoration Project 910893 £1.7m - Waste Transfer Station

MEDICAL ProjectID Title 689013 €27m - Residential Care Facilities 683457 €15.5m - Nursing Home Development 728795 £56m - Maternity Hospital

RESIDENTIAL ProjectID Title

Check us out on social media £3,610,018 Co. Antrim www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Padraig Venney | 35

NI Planning System needs a shake up…

Specify talks to Padraig Venney, the new Regional Director of the NHBC for Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man… Back in 2009, when the recession was at its peak in Northern Ireland, Padraig Venney was forced to pack his bags and golf clubs and head for a new job with the NHBC in London. Seven years later, he returned home with his golf clubs and new Peruvian wife Kelly to head up the NHBC in Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man. Originally from just outside Downpatrick, Padraig studied Construction Engineering and Management and comes from a family of builders, joiners and plasterers. He was working briefly for the Roads Service when he spotted the NHBC flags flying outside a building site near Saintfield. At the time he thought NHBC was the building company and they looked like a very professional operation to work for! After some quick research, Padraig decided that the NHBC building warranty and insurance company was the one he wanted to work for and it wasn’t long after that he was a member of the team…

Padraig was lucky enough to join NHBC IN 2004 at the peak of home construction in Northern Ireland. Back in 2006, there were two teams of 22 inspectors in the NHBC in Northern Ireland and virtually overnight that became a single team of 15 in 2008. By 2010 that was down to tem inspectors and with no sign of improvement in the industry locally, Padraig decided to fall on his sword and move to London. Sleeping on his sister’s floor in Brixton for the first few days, Padraig initially inspected in South London though was quickly promoted to become Inspection Manager in Sussex and Surrey before managing the South London Inspection team from 2013.

Construction in the south of

England is a massive business.

Projects are usually 2,500 to 3,000 homes at a time and a house is built in 16 weeks – maximum.

Padraig hit the ground running, managing a team of 12 which rose as his area increased.

Coming back to Northern Ireland in March 2017, Padraig was quickly able to spot the differences between construction in the south of England and Northern Ireland.

“We are generations behind when it comes to Health and Safety in Northern Ireland,” says Padraig. “We are still having some pretty serious accidents on our building sites here. In the south of England, all building sites now use turnstiles with fingerprint or eye recognition to gain access. The mindset and culture is wrong here and it needs to change.”

Padraig also notes the change in how construction is financed in Northern Ireland from the Celtic Tiger. Before the recession, construction companies were financed by the banks, but in many cases that has now changed to private funding. “Builders were treated badly by the banks so many builders are now privately funded and these financiers can make a lot more profit on their money than any bank will offer.

“Northern Ireland home building still has a long way to go,” says Padraig. “Back in 2005 there

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Padraig Venny (left) presenting the Private Housing Award to DB Contracts at the CEF Specify Awards, also included is CEF President David Henry (right)

were 11,500 homes registered.

In 2017 there were 3,600. The NHBC is quite conservative, there are now ten inspectors for Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man but things have been on the slow turn since 2014. The main problem is fixing the planning system in Northern Ireland, which has been performing poorly for decades. In April 2015 planning powers were devolved to the 11 local councils, though nothing has really changed, in many cases planning applications decisions are taking just as long and there is no consistency across the provincial councils. Out of the eleven new council areas, only about three of them are operating properly.

We need the politicians back in Stormont so there is some degree of accountability.

“The planning system is broken here. In the south of England it would take about 12 weeks to get planning permission passed. Here it can take up to 30 weeks for a small development and larger developments can take on average up to 70 weeks.

“We are also suffering from a

skills shortage and a shortfall in apprentices. I know of some homebuilders that are slowing down their workrate so they can keep their staff. If they had to pay them off they would never get them back again. Homebuilders too are moving away from three storey houses and apartments – there is no need for them here. People have realised that you can get a bigger house with a garden ten minutes down the road. Belfast tried to introduce apartment urban living but I feel Belfast is too small for that to work, plus the new Transport Hub aims to get people out of the city even quicker.

“House prices have picked up a little too, somewhere around 3 to 4 per cent a year is good and much more sustainable unlike Dublin where house prices are really high, 600,000 euro for a house. It won’t last at that rate, the Dublin bubble will burst again but there are definite signs of an improvement for Northern Ireland – it’s got a lot going for it if we can just get the politicians to play their part…”

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manhole covers to decorative walling and paving.

• PRESTRESSED FLOORING • BESPOKE (contact us to discuss your needs)

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Airport&Road WestLtd. Acheson glover Harbour 64 Belfast Old Moy Road Estate BELFAST BT3 9ED Dungannon Co.Tel: Tyrone 028 9073 2611 BT71 6PU info@flogasni.com Email: Tel:Web: 028 8778 4208 www.flogasni.com Fax: 028 8778 4805 Email: solutions@acheson-glover.com Web: www.acheson-glover.com

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Tel: 028 2565 2566 Fax: 028 2565 8480 Email: info@moore-concrete.com Web:gas www.moore-concrete.com Calor Northern

Ireland Limited

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Airport Road West, Supplying Northern Ireland's leading Sydenham, architect and builders Belfast, BT3 9EE. Tel: 028 9045 5588 E-mail: info@calorgas.ie Website: www.calorgas.ie

“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 a leading supplier Calorisgas Northern of cleaner, efficient Ireland Limited LPG energy solutions in Northern Ireland with RTU LTd Cloughfern Avenue, Airport Road • Fire Detection &West, Alarm specialist knowledge Newtownabbey, BT37 0UZ • Fire Suppression Systems Sydenham, covering all sectors • Integration T: Industrial, +44 (0)28 • IntruderBT3 Detection &9085 Alarm1441 Belfast, 9EE. Including E: info@rtu.co.uk • CCTV Commercial, Hospitality, Tel: 028 9045 5588 • Access Control www.rtu.co.uk • Remote Monitoring Agriculture, and E-mail: info@calorgas.ie • Emergency Communications Systems Domestic.

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Swiss Facades Contact Anne Hurl.

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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.

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Calor gas Northern • ACOUSTIC BLOCKS • THERMAL BLOCKS Ireland Limited • PERMEABLE PAVING

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Airport Road West,Ltd. Acheson & glover BC 64 Old Plant Moy RoadJCB Limited Sydenham, Dungannon Old Coach Road, Co. Tyrone Belfast, BT3 9EE. BT71 6PU HILLSBOROUGH, 028 8778 4208 Tel: Tel: 028 9045 5588 Fax: 028 8778 4805 County Down, UK, E-mail: Email:info@calorgas.ie solutions@acheson-glover.com Web: www.acheson-glover.com BT26 6PB Website: www.calorgas.ie

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www.kcontracts.com

BELFAST BT3 9ED Tel: 028 9073 2611 Email: info@flogasni.com Web: www.flogasni.com

Belfast: 028 9064 3706 London: 02037447359 www.kcontracts.com cathal@kcontacts.com

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Terry Crawford, Siobhan Kissward |55 directory to advertiseweb Sales Manager 028 9078 3218 ContaCt...

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40| Plastic Surgeon

Repair and finishing specialist launches official Northern Ireland presence

A specialist finishing and repair firm is now firmly established in Northern Ireland after launching a dedicated presence in the region and signing a significant deal with Lagan Homes, the largest house builder in Northern Ireland.

With growing demand for its services in the country over the last few years, Plastic Surgeon, the UK’s leading surface repair firm, invested in a dedicated team in

Northern Ireland in 2017. Their position within the region was further secured with the Lagan Homes partnership which helps the developer ensure its properties are in perfect condition for client handover.

to fix damage caused during construction projects, either by accidental damage or through general wear and tear. Having developed a wide range of repair techniques, Plastic Surgeon offers repair solutions to a large selection of building substrates including masonry, metal, glass, ceramics and plastics.

Richard Moreton of Plastic Surgeon said: “We’ve noticed a real upturn in interest in our skills in the housebuild and construction sectors in Northern Ireland, so felt the time was right to invest and establish a permanent resource.

Previously, we’ve brought in resource as and when needed, but now we’re better equipped to respond in a very short timeframe to repair requests.”

Plastic Surgeon can call upon over 180 directly-employed finishers from across the UK, meaning for large scale repair jobs it can bring in relevant resource within a short space of time.

Providing both internal and external surface repair, the specialist repairs offered by Plastic Surgeon are both environmentally friendly and an economical alternative to replacement.

The partnership follows previous work with a range of NI based clients including McLaughlin and Harvey and Boyle Construction.

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Housing Executive undertakes NI’s largest study of cavity wall insulation The Housing Executive is set to undertake the largest survey of its kind into cavity wall insulation in Northern Ireland.

The organisation, which is the largest social housing landlord in the UK, has commissioned new research, which will focus on 1000

social homes and 300 private homes.

It is expected this research will be completed in summer 2018 with the results published later in the year.

Paul Isherwood, the Housing Executive’s Director of Asset Management, said; “This is follow-on research from a study we carried out in 2014 when 2061 homes were surveyed.

“That identified issues with the quality of existing cavity wall insulation in some residential dwellings.

“In some cases, the problems were due to poor installation practices, and the post-inspection methods that are used today were not available in the 1980s.

“However it is also apparent some dwellings were also insulated where it was inappropriate to do so, due to geographical location, construction type or dwelling condition.”

“This is the largest survey of its kind ever undertaken in Northern Ireland - we are confident that the results will provide an evidence base to influence policy within this area in the future.”

has commissioned the British Board of Agrément, Consultancy Investigation and Training (BBA, CIT) to carry out this comprehensive research study, which is already underway.

Rob McCormack, Director of BBACIT, said: “Northern Ireland is leading the way in developing housing and insulation policy based on strong, operational evidence in the field and we are excited to be part of the project.”

The Housing Executive Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

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42 | Camden

Camden Group … it’s a Woman’s World

The manufacturing industry is a demanding environment, fast paced, target driven with a large focus on machinery and equipment. Traditionally it is a male dominated workplace with women in the minority, however trends are changing and more and more woman are joining the manufacturing workforce.

Camden Group are an award winning company and employ over 700 employees across 6 manufacturing facilities, 12 trade centres, office; admin support and 50+ fleet drivers. 430 of these employees work in our manufacturing plants and against the norm, 20% are women – and this figure is increasing. In some areas women make up the majority of the team such as our Decorative Glass Department, Beading Lines and Customer Services. Camden Group are proud to support women in the manufacturing industry and we are committed to continually growing our business through the dedication and hard work of a diverse, dynamic and successful team.

Not only are Camden women working within the production

teams but many of our key positions are held by women, from our Group Operations Manager, our Quality Manager through to a number of Production Supervisors and Team leaders, we have multiple highly experienced and skilled female members of senior management leading our business at the forefront of the manufacturing process.

Caroline Heagney, Group Operations Manager states: “As a senior manager, I believe that a gender balanced workforce brings much needed diversity to the company, makes our business stronger, more innovative and provides us with a competitive advantage. Gender diversity is vital to any workplace, not just because it’s a laudable goal; it simply makes bottom-line business sense”.

So, how have Camden Group made their business more attractive to new recruits?

Camden have invested heavily in recruitment campaigns and engagement strategies over the past year. Many roles have had their titles changed to appeal to a wider and more diverse audience and vacancies have been advertised, stating that no training or background in manufacturing is needed. This is

aimed to encourage people to enter the industry, who may never have thought of manufacturing as the career of choice for them.

Policies have been updated and amended to be more inclusive and attract talent from all backgrounds, for example, the introduction of a robust ‘Dignity at Work’ policy and new flexible working arrangements.

Quality Manager Ildiko Hamilton comments: “Camden are invested in creating an equal and inclusive working environment. As the Quality Manager I lead a team dedicated to ensuring the standard of products that Camden produce meet and exceed customer

requirements and expectations.

Camden provide excellent opportunities for woman in the workplace and are committed to development and equality at all levels.”

Outside of the production floor, woman are an integral part of the support functions of the business, in Finance, Purchasing, H&S, HR, Customer Service, Sales and Order Processing, Camden firmly believe that the company will only succeed with the right people at every level and we are proud that many of these ‘right’ people are the Camden Women.

Are you interested in working with Camden? Visit our website today www.camdengroup.co.uk

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

WPL | 43

WPL Architectural Facades

At the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), WPL had a great opportunity to work alongside Design Engine Architects to install perforated panel cladding to several Teaching Blocks that needed to be completely refurbished.

The final effect at AUB produces a unique façade emulated across two of the main teaching buildings and more of the same across the campus. The team had bounds of artistic licence, where our more usual symmetry was set aside in favour of this totally random installation with perforations of differing positions and diameter.

Because the perforated panels have a visually open area the existing unsightly brick façade that had been painted black is present behind the silver metallic façade and offers a very attractive contrast in colours.

The façade also doubles up as a solar shading system for the areas of glazing to reduce solar gain into

the building whilst maintaining the optimal amount of natural light into the building. The benefits also extend to the reduction of energy used to maintain ideal room temperatures which in turn is more environmentally friendly.

Perforated circles are a popular choice for architects specifying perforated panels but what differs in the AUB pattern is the unique

arrangement of varying hole sizes.

The building is rectangular as is the existing brick façade so the circles create distinction against what was previously quite a dull looking building.

WPL’s perforated panel cladding is used as a decorative façade at AUB which gave the building a new lease of life but this type of cladding is a very versatile

Visit: www.wpluk.com Email: sales@wpluk.com Call: +44 (0)1204 395955

Design, manufacture and installation of bespoke and sustainable facades

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

product. It is used in a large array of applications from architectural feature facades right through to cladding that needs to meet high technical performance specifications like for example sound or weather proof barriers.

For more inspiration on the versatility of WPL’s full product range visit our website and search latest projects: http://wpluk.com/ projects/

CEF/SpecifyCEF awards |29

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

Excellence Awards finalists raise an outstanding £4,917 for Cancer Focus NI We were delighted to hand over a cheque for £4,917 to Cancer Focus NI, our charity partners in this year’s Construction Excellence Awards!

The Federation is incredibly grateful to the generosity of our finalists and guests on the evening who raised such a significant amount for the crucial work of Cancer Focus NI. If you are interested in finding more information about Cancer Focus NI, please contact Rosie Forsythe on rosieforsythe@ cancerfocusni.org or call 028 9068 0759.

Cpl employment support offer for members

ederation Patron and specialist recruitment company Cpl Northern F Ireland are offering Federation members a free of charge recruitment consultation.

The consultation will involve advice on: Employer branding Advertising strategies Recruitment processes and Staff retention

To avail of the offer, please contact Michael Hewitt, Principal Recruitment Consultant - Construction & Property, at Cpl Northern Ireland via michael.hewitt@cpljobs.com or on 028 9072 5613.

Notice of Promulgation – Additional Wage Increase T he Joint Council for the Building & Civil Engineering Industry (Northern Ireland) decided to promulgate an Additional Wage Increase effective from Monday 4 December 2017.

To see the details, please visit the Federation website: https://www.cefni.co.uk/news/ notice-of-promulgation-additional-wageincrease

Safe-T-Cert gearing up for ISO45001 2017 Annual Report published After a busy year working on the industry’s behalf we are today publishing our Annual Report for 2017.

The Annual Report provides a brief overview of the Federation’s work throughout the last 12 months and the results that we have achieved.

The document is broken down into five categories: Building on renewed confidence Growing housebuilding Partnering with our Patrons Recognising industry excellence Supporting the industry To view a copy of the report please visit here: https://www. cefni.co.uk/news/2017-annualreport-published

The Safe-T-Cert Joint Standards Advisory Panel met recently to discuss the upcoming introduction of ISO45001.

Richard Jones, IOSH’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, gave a presentation on the new health and safety standard and then discussion focussed on potential changes to Safe-T-Cert.

Safe-T-Cert Scheme Manager Jonathan Caughey commented, “With the introduction of ISO45001 now likely in early 2018 it is an opportune time to update and refresh Safe-T-Cert. Our scheme will satisfy the requirements of ISO45001 and continue to be a first class health and safety management system which is recognised throughout the UK and Ireland. Currently Safe-T-Cert meets the Government Construction Clients requirements outlined in the Buildsafe-NI Initiative Action Plan enabling certified companies to tender for public sector work in Northern Ireland. Safe-T-Cert is also accepted in GB through the Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) Forum.

This will not change.

“The meeting was the latest in a series to address the issue and what is very encouraging is that Safe-T-Cert already requires some of the new elements being introduced by ISO45001. Whilst there may be some changes required these will be introduced gradually to allow companies time to adjust. Further information will be available in due course”.

If you have any queries, please contact Jonathan Caughey jcaughey@cefni. co.uk 028 9087 7143.

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Building site theft – information from the PSNI The PSNI have recently seen an increase in the number of reports of theft of metals such as copper and other equipment such as boilers from partially built or vacant properties. The police recognise the cost of not only replacing such items but the collateral damage their removal can cause. The Police have increased their focus on preventative patrolling however cannot deal with this issue in isolation and need to increase awareness of how contractors can safeguard partially completed houses and building sites.

Metal theft, in particular the theft of boilers is a serious issue and police understand the concerns of those who have been directly involved. When key building equipment or machinery is stolen, this has a direct impact on their ability to carry out day to day business. The PSNI and our partner agencies are committed to reducing this sort of crime across Northern Ireland.

Chris Sloan Head of Crime Prevention provides the following advice on plant and site security and said; “There is rarely a legitimate reason for plant machinery and tractors to be used late at night or in the early hours.

Members of the public should report any such unusual movement to police on the non-emergency number 101. If you see heavy plant machinery on the move during these times, it is highly likely that it has been stolen, and possibly about to be used in a crime.

“Extra vigilance is especially required where plant machinery is located in the vicinity of Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s). Please report anything suspicious to police.

“Business and construction crime affects more than just those people who are direct victims; it impacts on jobs, the environment and the economy. It is a concern for all of us and I would therefore ask for assistance from the public in providing information that may support us in continuing to prevent crime and arresting those individuals or gangs that carry out offences within rural communities.”

There are a few simple steps that can be taken to help protect plant machinery and reduce the chances of them being stolen: What can you do?

• As a precaution disable plant machinery at the end of the day.

• Remove ignition keys when plant is unattended and don’t leave them under the seat!

• Make sure plant can’t be started when it is not in use.

• Use all security devices supplied with the plant to secure it overnight.

• Cut off electricity to equipment that could be used to help someone steal the plant.

• Ensure all small tools and equipment is stored in a high security cabinet or enclosure.

• Restrict access to your yard, the fewer ways in the better, use locked gates or security posts if practicable.

• Fit alarms to tool sheds, consider installing CCTV to yards and vulnerable areas, remember, technology complements good security, it doesn’t replace it.

• Identify items as yours, engrave your postcode and house number on smaller tools etc. Paint your herd or farm name on trailers, record and keep all serial and model numbers. Fit quads, ride-on mowers and similar equipment with specialist marking kits.

Anyone with any information should contact their local police on 101 or alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Construction industry responds to Chancellor’s Budget C ommenting after the Chancellor’s November Budget Statement, Construction Employers Federation Managing Director John Armstrong said:

“The Budget Statement reflects welcome uplifts in Northern Ireland’s capital expenditure over the coming three years when compared to the Spring Budget. This is hugely welcome given the undoubted direct and indirect benefits of infrastructure investment.

“Additionally, this will limit some of industry’s concerns with regard to how much capital expenditure over the coming years was planned for the Northern Ireland Executive’s Flagship projects. The Executive’s Flagship schemes stand on their very clear economic merits. We have though consistently said that a balance must be struck in budgetary planning between how much resource is spent on these and other areas, such as roads maintenance, so to avoid a massive cliff edge for the vast majority of firms not engaged on the Flagship projects.

“However, a fundamental issue remains. Although the capital budgets for future years have been increased today, we have known Northern Ireland’s outline capital expenditure figures for 2018 onwards for the best part of two years.

“We stand today with welcome increases in the planned capital budget but with little prospect in the short to medium term of budgets for future years being agreed without a functioning Executive. As we have said before, with a number of projects stalled, confusion around the expenditure of elements of the capital budget and policy formulation having been drastically curtailed, there is a significant and increasingly harmful lack of governance within Northern Ireland. This is a situation which cannot and must not persist.”

On the Chancellor’s housing announcements: “Northern Ireland shares the housing challenge that is currently facing the rest of the UK. While most of the policy announcements today will not directly impact here as housing policy is devolved they do reflect a wider need for the restoration of a Northern Ireland Executive. The Executive’s Programme for Government was very clear that we needed to address our housing shortfall. Some work on addressing the shortfall has now commenced but it is far from what is required.

“Even if the pro’s and con’s of today announcement by the Chancellor, including the abolition on Stamp Duty on first-time buyer purchases up to £300k, are open to debate, the simple fact is that the Government is coming forward with proposals. Northern Ireland, put simply, is not.”

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News in Brief...

Federation welcomes A5 announcement Commenting after the announcement by the Department for Infrastructure that construction on the A5 Western Transport Corridor scheme is to begin in early 2018, Construction Employers Federation Managing Director John Armstrong said: “The decision announced by the Department must be welcomed by all.

“The commencement of phase one begins the journey towards the completion of a scheme which is of significant strategic importance to the Northern Ireland economy.

The direct and indirect benefits will equate to hundreds of sustainable jobs over the course of the project as well as many opportunities for the main contractors extensive supply chain.

“When you add this to the ongoing work on the A6 Randalstown – Castledawson and the tender now being live for the first phase of the A6 between Derry and Dungiven, we are looking at a period of huge investment in the infrastructure of the North West and West of Northern Ireland which has been in need for decades. Once completed, all of the schemes, with the addition of the York Street Interchange, will significantly enhance Northern Ireland’s strategic transport connectivity.

“In the context of the ongoing lack of a Northern Ireland Executive however, and even allowing for the additional capital expenditure announced for Northern Ireland by the Chancellor last week, we must remember that further progress with the Flagship projects means less resource available is available for other projects.

“The Executive’s Flagship schemes stand on their very clear economic merits. We have though consistently said that a balance must be struck in budgetary planning between how much resource is spent on these and other areas, such as roads maintenance, so to avoid a massive cliff edge for the vast majority of firms not engaged on the Flagship projects.”

HSENI Chairman launches Working at Height Resources from the CEF Health & Safety Committee

T

he Chairman of the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), Derek Martin, recently attended the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) Health & Safety Committee to launch a series of resources on Working at Height.

The resources have been produced by the Committee, in conjunction with HSENI, to aid members by reinforcing basic industry practice to make construction sites safer.

Derek commented, “I was delighted to attend the committee meeting recently not only to launch the Working at Height Resources but also to hear about the work the members have been doing in a very important part of the construction industry. It is a great example of collaboration between the CEF, its members and the HSENI.” Visit the Federation website to view the resources: https://www.cefni.co.uk/news/hseni-chairman-launchesworking-at-height-resources-from-the-cef-health-saf The poster can be used on site as a visual reminder of the dangers construction workers face on a daily basis. The resource booklet can be used to assist toolbox talks so members are encouraged to share as widely as possible with health and safety representatives, site supervisors and operatives.

John Armstrong, CEF Managing Director, said “Falls constantly top the HSENI Construction Group statistics as the biggest cause of major injuries. As an industry we have to do more to protect our workers. Our resources provide basic guidance on a number of key areas related to Working at Height that should be used by anyone operating in this area”.

David Wallace, Chair of the CEF Health and Safety Committee, commented “This is the first in a series of resources being produced by the committee. We wanted to start with the area that causes the most concern and will continue to work with HSENI on other topics. Please watch this space for the next set of resources on Mobile Plant and Equipment”.

The Health & Safety Committee was set up to encourage collaboration amongst CEF members leading to regular sharing of best practice in the interests of improving overall health and safety standards in the construction industry.

The committee is chaired by David Wallace from Henry Brothers Limited. The other current committee members are Michael Purkess (Farrans Construction), Anthony Robb (Antrim Construction Company), Eleanor Forrest Reid (Dixons Contractors), Martin McCann (Donaghmore Construction), Caroline Hughes (Heron Brothers) and Declan McLogan (McAleer & Rushe). Representation comes from a wide range of companies operating across the industry from civil engineering to private housebuilding to ensure a breadth of health and safety knowledge.

Save the Date - 2018 Federation Annual Dinner, 20 April e are delighted to announce that Dick Strawbridge MBE will W be our Guest Speaker at the 2018 Construction Employers Federation Annual Dinner!

The event, which will take place at the Culloden Hotel on the evening of Friday 20 April, will be held in association with our eight Federation Patrons and promises to be yet another great night in the Federation’s calendar.

The 2018 dinner will also mark the first address of the Federation’s incoming President, Ray Hutchinson (Managing Director of Gilbert-Ash), to members and colleagues within the business, political and media community.

Further details will follow early in the New Year however, if you would like more information on how to book your place now, please contact Tracy Windrim on 028 9087 7143 or tracyw@cefni.co.uk.

Federation submits evidence to NI Affairs Committee inquiry

The Construction Employers Federation, in mid-December, submitted a detailed evidence paper to an ongoing Northern Ireland Affairs Committee inquiry in the House of Commons.

The inquiry - Devolution and democracy in Northern Ireland: dealing with the deficit - is was accepting written submissions from interested parties.

Further detail about the inquiry is available here: http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/ commons-select/northern-ireland-affairs-committee/news-parliament-2017/devolution-and-democracy-in-nideficit-launch-17-19/ The Federation’s evidence paper is available to view here: http://www.cefni.co.uk/downloads/CEF_submission_to_ NIAC_inquiry_Dec_2017.pdf Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

Construction industry comments on 2018-20 Northern Ireland Budgetary Outlook Commenting after late December’s statement by the Department of Finance on the 2018-20 Northern Ireland Budgetary Outlook, Construction Employers Federation Managing Director John Armstrong said: “The statement today is welcome in that it charts a very clear budgetary path for the next three financial years in respect of how Northern Ireland’s capital budget could be spent. It is vital that this kind of budgetary planning takes place, both for industry and Government, especially as the last twelve months have led to complete uncertainty as to the spending profile in future years.

“The statement does, however, very clearly detail the challenges presented as a result of the huge investment going into the Flagship projects over the next 3 years even though the overall capital budget is going up. These are challenges that the industry has consistently said need to be reassessed, while we also note that the capital budget is entirely predicated on the capital money from the ConservativeDUP deal flowing as early as April.

Any delay in this, accompanied by the expenditure on the Flagship projects, could present huge challenges for the bulk of our industry given its predominately small and medium sized contractor base.

“As we have said today in evidence we have submitted to a Northern Ireland Affairs Committee inquiry, neither the construction industry, nor the Government Clients, can afford to be in a position in March, never mind once the financial year has actually started, of still not having a legislatively approved budget. We are aware that Clients have now been asked to put forward how they would prioritise capital investment in 2018/19.

So that this process can be done as efficiently and effectively as possible, it is vital that the 2018/19 budget be approved in January or, at worst, by mid-February and that, in the context of the ongoing impasse at Stormont, that Westminster must assume this responsibility will fall on them.

“We have long said that the Secretary of State must now bring clarity. Decisions need to be prioritised and taken and a clear and accountable way of government taking these decisions needs to be established.

Our preference is, of course, the establishment of a Northern Ireland Executive. However, failing that, we need to move to a position where the functions of government can be exercised in a way that any other part of these islands would expect as a matter of course.”

Changes to CSR Plant Scheme

ithdrawal of Plant EWPA route - Construction Skills W Register (CSR) blue plant operative cards are issued on achievement of an NVQ Level 2 qualification.

News in Brief...

ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council has withdrawn the use of simulation as an assessment route to achieve Plant qualifications. This is stated within the Assessment Strategy for Construction and the Built Environment – Plant Operations and Lifting Operations dated 1st January 2018.

CSkills Awards (the Awarding Organisation) is required to comply with the Assessment Strategy and for this reason the ability to achieve Plant and Plant-related qualifications

by Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA) will be withdrawn on the 31 December 2017.

CSR plant training providers currently deliver NVQs using the EWPA route but this will change from the start of 2018 as a result of the above. This is likely to impact both the time it takes to achieve an NVQ and the costs associated.

Introduction of Technical Tests Separately CSR has agreed to introduce new plant technical tests to quality assure NVQ provision in Northern Ireland. Each technical test will be specific to a category of plant and will include both theory and practical elements.

These are currently being developed and will be introduced at the end of Q1 2018 as an additional requirement for all new plant cards and additional categories. Further information will be provided in advance of the introduction of the technical tests.

Federation launches new Mediation Service

The Construction Employers Federation is delighted to announce that it, in partnership with a panel of widely respected mediators, has launched a Mediation Service for Northern Ireland’s construction industry.

Introducing the Construction Employers Federation Mediation Service What is mediation?

Mediation is a nonbinding intervention between parties to promote resolution of a grievance, reconciliation, settlement or compromise.

Why are the Federation introducing this service?

As a form of alternative dispute resolution, mediation is a quick, inexpensive, informal and confidential means to address disputes between contractors, subcontractors, the design team and/or employers. Given the significant volume of disputes within the industry, the CEF Mediation Service will give all contractors the opportunity to resolve these in a mutually acceptable manner where an alternative dispute resolution clause has been inserted into a commercial contract, or where one is incorporated by agreement because of a dispute occurring.

Why mediation rather than negotiation?

Negotiation can, of course, lead to the settlement of disputes. However, these can sometimes end in deadlock and be confrontational. It is the role of a panel of mediators to be independent arbiters within disputes so that the parties involved can have their grievances heard in private thus affording the parties the opportunity to build a consensus agreement between those in dispute.

panel does not have the ability to impose a settlement on any party.

However, if an agreement can be reached, it is a legally binding contract with all parties’ signatures.

Is professional advice and/ or support necessary?

No – but that doesn’t preclude any party from obtaining it if it so wishes.

Does the service include disputes between Government Clients and contractors?

No, a separate dispute resolution mechanism is being developed for use in disputes between Government Clients and contractors. The CEF Mediation Service is purely for disputes between construction companies, their sub-contractors, design team and employers.

Do I need to be a member of the Construction Employers Federation to avail of the Mediation Service?

No, the Mediation Service is open to all construction companies, their sub-contractors, design team and/or employers.

The Mediation Service is without prejudice – any party can walk away from it at any time in the mediation if they are unhappy. With further agreement though, parties will still have the opportunity to return to mediation – or litigation as is their right.

For detailed information on how companies can refer a dispute and prepare for the mediation as well as the mediation process and our mediation panel, please see this link: https://www.cefni.co.uk/news/federationlaunches-new-mediation-service

But surely mediation is non-binding?

Please also feel free to contact David Fry on davidf@ cefni.co.uk or on 028 9087 7143 for further information.

Entering into the process is voluntary, yes, and the

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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 70 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 MAY 2017 Prices are exclusive of VAT. Discounts will apply.

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

Building Materials Prices

80| Evans 48 |VB prices AGGREGATES Full loads delivered Central Belfast 50mm Crusher run 100mm Crusher run Fine Blinding Coarse Blinding 6mm Stone 10mm Stone Building Sand Washed Sand

Web: www.vbevans.com

Quantity Surveying Building Surveying Project Management CDM Planning Supervision

Metric-sized concrete blocks, delivered to Belfast area, full loads, mechanically off-loaded per 1,000 £424.00 440x215x100 3.5N/mm2 £433.50 440x215x100 7Nmm2 £434.00 440x215x100 10Nmm2 £513.50 440x300x100 7Nmm2 £535.00 440x300x100 10Nmm2 £410.00 Concrete brick 15Nmm2 803.00 440x215x100 Tolite

FINISHED SOFTWOOD

Metric-sized concrete bricks delivered

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths, finished sizes. per 100m Parana Pine £63.00 20x8 £97.00 44x8 Whitewood £53.00 32x12 £84.50 69x12 £64.00 32x19 £75.00 44x19 £82.00 32x32 £142.50 69x32 £179.00 69x44 £230.00 94x44 £264.00 69x69

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

per 1,000 £380.00 £390.00 £345.00 £370.00 £370.00 £340.00 £335.00

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 £46.50 50x19 £69.00 75x19 £112.00 125x19 £42.00 38x25 £51.00 75x25 £99.50 150x25 £78.00 50x38 £118.00 100x38 £93.50 150x38 £93.50 50x50 £148.00 100x50 £168.50 125x50 £205.00 100x75 £460.00 200x75 £380.00 150x100

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

Bulk Cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area per tonne £153.00 Ordinary Portland Cement £181.00 Sulphate Resisting Cement

per tonne £372.00

CEMENT MORTARS In full loads delivered to Central Belfast per tonne

£27.00 Standard 1 lime mortar Y4 £47.00 Tinted mortar ref.

Y15 £54.00 Y135 £46.00 Y91 £52.00 Y10 £57.00

6mm sanded £54.00

9mm sanded £57.00

12mm sanded £74.00

MASTERBOARD Class O asbestos-free multi-purpose building board sanded finish.

Price per sheet up to 149m2 2440x1220

CEMENT

Ordinary Portland Cement

3 Pilot's View, Heron Road Belfast BT3 9LE Tel: 028 9045 7000 Fax: 028 9045 7040

per tonne £16.00 £16.50 £15.50 £15.50 £17.50 £20.50 £21.00 £18.50

BRICKS

Bagged cement delivered in 15-tonne loads to Greater Belfast Area

Chartered Surveyors

CONCRETE BLOCKS

6mm £68.00

9mm £82.00

12mm £105.50

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

£322.00 £379.00 £336.00 £11.00 £15.00 £17.00 £11.50 £11.00 £14.00 £28.00

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Evans |81 of In theVB next issue READY MIXED CONCRETES Ordinary Portland Cement in full loads delivered to Central Belfast per cub. metre £68.00 1:10 by volume £83.00 1:2:4 by volume £74.00 1:3:6 by volume £69.00 20 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £73.00 25 N/mm2:20mm aggregate £77.00 30 N/mm2:20mm aggregate

Thrutone Thrutone Relief

per 1,000 £1540.00 £1650.00

Concrete tiles delivered Central Belfast Interlocking flat tile Double roll tile Single roll tile

£890.00 £890.00 £890.00 per tile £5.00 £5.80

Half round ridge tile - 457mm long Angular ridge tile - 457mm long

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

£94.00 £69.00 £80.50 £98.50 £108.00

T + G Whitewood TG + V Whitewood TG + V Whitewood TG + V Redwood TG + Open V Redwood

STEEL REINFORCEMENT

ROOF SLATES AND TILES Fibre Cement Slates ex-yard

SOFTWOOD FLOORING, SHEETING AND PANELING

£224.00 £318.00 £243.00 £379.60 £519.00 £304.00 £457.00 £683.00

SAWN WHITEWOOD

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 £770.00 £865.00

8 £770.00 £865.00

10 £770.00 £865.00

12 £770.00 £865.00

20 £770.00 £865.00

25 £770.00 £865.00

32 £770.00 £865.00

40 £770.00 £865.00 Mesh Fabric to BS 4483 ex-yard per sheet (one or mixed references)

per sheet BS reference A 98

£38.50

A142 £38.50

A193 £42.50

A252 £47.00

A393 £80.00

B503 £80.00

B785 £88.00 Heavy section steel ex-yard in lots of over 5T

per tonne UC 152x152x23 £1030.00 203x203x46 £1375.00 254x254x73 £1435.00 305x305x118 £1320.00 356x368x153 £1505.00 UB

305x165x40 356x127x37 406x140x39 457x152x52 533x210x82

£1320.00 £1320.00 £1320.00 £1320.00 £1320.00

March/April 2018 Industry Security

Interiors

Per 100 metres, ex-yard, random lengths.

50x25 100x25 150x25 275x25 75x50 125x50 175x50 250x50 100x75 200x75 250x75

£40.00 £74.00 £102.50 £191.50 £120.00 £204.00 £260.00 £440.00 £227.50 £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 £54.00 £56.00 £75.00

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

£83.00 £98.00 £115.00 £171.00 £101.00 £135.00 £180.00 £245.00 £340.00

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Heavy Machinery & Plant

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 £23.00 £10.50 £7.50 £3.50 £11.00 £25.00 £12.00 £25.00 £6.20 £17.00 £6.20 £15.50 £17.00 £32.00 £19.00 £32.00 £31.00 £18.50 £23.00 £58.00

50| Interview

Specify talks to Gary Annett, Chief Executive Office, MJM Group Q: Did you plan to get involved in the Construction Industry?

JWhen I was leaving school, the mantra of the time was “Get a trade and you’ll be set for life” so the construction industry was always top of my agenda. It offered great opportunities particularly if you wanted to leave school and start work straight away. If we move on 30+ years, despite more recent industry wide economic challenges, it still offers great opportunities; particularly for apprentices or graduates but thankfully it has opened up with greater numbers of women joining the industry, which is very positive.

Q: How did you start off?

In keeping with the advice of the time, I got a trade.

I did an apprenticeship in joinery and wood machinery and after a few years I joined MJM Group where I have been ever since. I have worked across all areas of the business, from the factory floor to project management, through to my current role as CEO. It is a reflection of the Gary Annett, Chief Executive Office, MJM Group ethos within MJM Group that we focus on career progression. We support Royal Caribbean and our global our people with training reputation, we were able to sign an and development programmes to historic contract which gives MJM allow them to plot a clear career Group full responsibility for the path and encourage them to stay complete refit of Azamara Pursuit. with MJM Group.

This is the first time a cruise ship owner has awarded complete Q: What have been the project management responsibility to highlights of your career so an individual organisation and is one far? which has the potential to change the wider industry approach. It has Undoubtedly the biggest highlight been described within the industry has been our recent contract with as a game-changer and gives me a Royal Caribbean and Azamara Club real sense of pride that MJM Group Cruises which will see us bring a is leading the charge. luxury cruise liner to Harland & Wolff for a multi-million pound refit.

Since we began fitting out cruise ships, MJM Group has travelled to ports around the world to complete our works. We go to The Bahamas, Germany, Italy, Singapore, China but it has been a long-held ambition of MJM Group to bring a cruise ship refit project to Belfast. Through the strength of our relationship with

Q: What was the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

The best piece of advice which is actually one of MJM Group’s core values which is to have a “can-do” attitude. Tenacity, perseverance and a drive to find solutions, this is part of what drives us in MJM Group.

We have faced many challenges on

projects or received designs which initially look impossible but with our “can-do” attitude we have delivered every time.

Q: What would you say to any students considering a career in construction?

Go for it! There are endless opportunities and career progression opportunities within the construction industry which are just waiting to be explored.

From apprenticeships to graduate programmes, there really is a job for everyone. In MJM Group we have opportunities for designers/ engineers, logistics management, quantity surveyors, contracts managers, joiners and production operatives in a company that is a world-leader in interior fit-outs.

Q: Do you think the

Construction Sector needs more support from Stormont?

The Construction Sector and indeed the wider Northern Ireland economy needs the Executive back up and running as soon as possible.

Q: What needs to be done to help the Construction Sector?

It is crucial that the construction sector can attract and retain young, new talent to the industry. There is a risk that with the growth of the technology-sector, traditional sectors like construction will get left behind in the race for new talent.

As an industry, we need to engage with young people from an early age and find early and easy entry options into the sector. There are excellent career paths opportunities for people within the industry but we need to get better at selling the industry.

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