Specify Magazine: Vol 6 Christmas Edition

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

Vol 6 2019

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O’HARE & MCGOVERN SCORE NI Politicians needTWICE! PAT BURNS PAT BURNS Editor Editor PAUL BRADWELL Shaun byrne Sales Manager Sales Manager SUBSCRIPTIONS: SUBSCRIPTIONS: (UK £18.00 Outside UK £27.50) (UK £18.00 Outside UK £27.50) PUBLISHERS: PUBLISHERS: James & Gladys Greer James & Gladys Greer

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20-20 vision

For the second year in a row, Newry-based construction company O’Hare & McGovern Everyone involved in the have taken theindustry ‘Overall construction in Northern has Award’ at theIreland Specify CEF been callingExcellence out for our Construction politicians to get back Awards.

into government and sort out the problems with The Awards GalaEducation Evening saw the NHS, the the firm win the of award for System and course the lack its work on of theinfrastructure IFA National expenditure. is the Football Stadium atItWindsor latter that is hitting Park. The superb new 18,000 construction companies seater received its official here stadium the hardest. opening the day after the awards took place at theofCulloden Hotel.

John Armstrong the Employers ItConstruction was built within the confines Federation hasWindsor been calling out of the existing Park for a return to government at which remained fully operational Stormont for some time.

This throughout the 98 week lack of government is having a construction phase, facilitating major effect on the sustainability over spectators at of the of an200,000 increasingly large part 63 international domestic local contracting and industry and is stopping The hugework swathes of much fixtures. involved the needed housebuilding in and its tracks. demolition of the south “Westands, need arefurbishment new conversation east and on how we fund and prioritise extension of the north and infrastructure investment in west stands.

Northern Ireland. It is vital that a restored Executive treats this as OHMG curved steel one of itsdesigned highest priorities, ” said CEF MD John Armstrong.

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.

Housebuilding remained a key source of workload growth, with private housebuilding activity rising particularly strongly (a

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 beyond… see pages 36 and 37.

Pat Burns Editor

House Price Growth Slows House price growth slowed towards the end of 2019, according to results of the monthly RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and Ulster Bank Northern Ireland Residential Market Survey.

of newly agreed sales fell last month than said they rose.

Fewer properties coming onto the market appears to be one factor in this, with the net balance of respondents reporting that the number of new vendor instructions was lower in November than in October.

A net balance of +27 percent of Northern Ireland surveyors responding to the November survey said that prices rose over the past three months. However, this was the lowest net balance for prices in Northern Ireland since mid-2016 and was down from +46 percent in October.

There is change expected, however, with sales expectations over the next three months looking more positive. A net balance of +22 percent of respondents expects the number of sales to increase in the December to February period.

Samuel Dickey, RICS Residential Property Spokesman in Northern Ireland, said: “The indications from respondents are that the new year will see activity increase and prices continue to edge upwards. Indeed, the feedback regarding both prices and sales in the short-term and medium term has strengthened.”

The 12-month outlook for sales activity is also more positive than it was, with a +31 percent net balance, compared to +21 in the October survey.

Terry Robb, Head of Personal Banking at Ulster Bank, said: “Our pipeline of mortgage activity remains strong and we continue to see good demand from prospective homebuyers.

Whilst surveyors indicate that prospective buyers are still active in the market, with a net balance of +10 percent reporting a rise in new buyer enquiries last month, fewer sales were seen to be taking place. Seven percent more survey respondents said that the number

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Prices are also expected to rise over the next 12 months, with 67 percent more respondents to

the November survey anticipating that house prices will rise (rather than fall). In this respect, Northern Ireland surveyors are amongst the most optimistic in the UK. Only Wales has a higher net balance of respondents expecting prices to be higher in a year’s time.

This should translate into housing market activity in early 2020.”

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VOl 6 2019 6 DIGEST

contents...

Further plans for a £30 million redevelopment of buildings on Linenhall Street, Clarence Street and Bedford Street in Belfast have been revealed by Surrey-based development company Domus UK Ltd.

7 DIGEST

Creagh Concrete has invested £1m in new offices to accommodate the company’s growing workforce. One of the UK’s largest producers of concrete products for a range of market sectors, Creagh operates from five sites across GB and Northern Ireland, including its head office and largest manufacturing site in Toomebridge.

8 DIGEST

Magherafelt based construction company Henry Brothers Ltd, which is still owned and run by the Henry family, have been awarded Family Business of the Year at the Annual Business Awards in London by the British Chambers of Commerce.

9 DIGEST

Gilbert-Ash, has won a £17million design and build contract at one of England’s most historically significant colleges.

Trinity College, a constituent college of the University of Oxford, was granted planning permission last year for the erection of the new high-quality building. It is set to provide teaching facilities, residential accommodation and a multipurpose auditorium.

10 WORKPLUS

Since 2016 Workplus has facilitated apprenticeships for over 130 people ranging from Level 3 at college up to Masters degree level. Director of Workplus, Richard Kirk, is clear that apprenticeships are the future of work and education in the construction sector.

12 50 YEARS OF RIDGEWAY

From a starting point fifty years ago in traditional building supplies, Ridgeway has become a supply chain partner of choice for major companies operating in a range of sectors, encompassing construction, engineering, off shore, oil and gas; bringing innovations in both products and processes in every sphere.

16 JOHN SIMPSON

Northern Ireland enters 2020 with higher degrees of business uncertainty than businesses would wish. Brexit is not finished, devolved Government is still deferred and issues of income inequality and the threats of climate change all call for the decision making of a competent Government, says John Simpson.

19 QUARRYSTORE

Ballymena based Quarrystore has expanded its range and after extensive research across both Europe and Asia the company is now ready to launch its exciting new products. The impressive new range includes natural stone paving, porcelain paving, walling and cladding some of the new products are available in Ireland for the first time.

21 WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION FEATURE

CITB NI, the industry training board for the construction industry are hosting their inaugural Women in Construction Summit to be held in Belfast on Thursday 5 March 2020. With a view to Inspire change and shatter stereotypes the Women in Construction Summit will be a full day of inspirational stories, business advice and career development for women currently working in the construction industry, those thinking of joining and for employers who support diversity or best practice in the industry.

31 HAYS COMMENT

The construction sector is starting the new year, like many other industries, with high hopes that we might see greater political and economic certainty in 2020 than we did last year, says Mark Wade of Hays.

33 DIGEST

Leading housebuilder the Braidwater Group, which ranks at No 55 nationally, is the only Northern Ireland headquartered company to feature in 23rd annual Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 league table, compared to four last year. Set up by managing director Joe McGinnis and his father Patrick McGinnis, it has secured three rounds of investment from growth-capital firm BGF to help it build more homes across Northern Ireland.

• 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

09 DIGEST

Gilbert-Ash appointed to deliver £17M construction project in Oxford

10 DIGEST

Meeting talent demand through apprenticeships.

Women in Construction

page 21 • 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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42 Interview

Women in construction Colleen Quinn Clanmil Housing Group

06| 06

digest digest

£30 Million application seeks to support Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year Linen growthQuarter plan in UK regeneration and Ireland.

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists Newtownabbey-based M&E services company, Harvey Group, has acquired Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Solmatix Renewables in a move the companies say will transform the renewable energy sector in Northern Ireland and act as a springboard for further expansion into the multimillion pound UK and Ireland renewable energy markets.

The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 the number of people employed directly by the Harvey Group in Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

With a turnover of £30 million and over 80 staff, Harvey Group has over 30 years’ experience in the design, installation and maintenance of building services within every conceivable kind of building type throughout NI, GB and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Further plans for a £30 Healthcare . Richard and Norahmillion redevelopment Bell founded ofAnne buildings onSolmatix Linenhall Renewables in 2008, since then Street, ClarenceandStreet

and Bedford Street in Belfast have been revealed by Surreybased development company Domus UK Ltd, owned by NCH Capital Inc.

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 with their engineering rigour and professionalism. In fact, there seemed to be a natural synergy between our two companies in terms of what we do and how we do it. I approached Richard Bell about a year ago to float the idea of our companies coming together, butthe only These extended plans provide ifopportunity there was atogood fit. After careful increase the provision consideration both space agreedfor of new Gradewe A office that this would indeed mutually the Linen Quarter and be raise its contribution to the district’s future job creation and economic prosperity.

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.

“Harvey Group and Solmatix share similar values, by which I mean our commitment to professionalism, our desire to deliver our services to the very highest standards, and the importance we place on treating our 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 organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power.

Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as 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. “

Lisburn firm TAL awarded Ian Layford, Investment Director for the first major construction Domus UK Ltd commented: “During the recent pre-application contract at Randox Science Park consultation for our redevelopment The proposals, set to be submitted to Belfast City Council in early 2020, expand on plans for a £10million redevelopment of buildings on Linenhall Street and Clarence Street, which has already undertaken preapplication community consultation earlier this month; and it is expected that a planning application for the smaller scheme will be submitted shortly. a reputation for WItH The decision to propose a excellence in constructing high second application to increase the quality projects, tAL Limited development site to include nos. 34 has been awarded a significant to 44 Bedford Street comes following contract (£3.1m) by global positive feedback received during the community consultationcompany process for medical diagnostics the redevelopment of nos. 27 to 37 Randox.

Linenhall Street, located to the This initial contract is for the south of the Ulster Hall, and nos. 8 to 10 construction of a new facility for Clarence Street.

of ClarenceofStRandox’s and Linenhall St production pioneering there was great encouragement for medical diagnostic products and will further regeneration of the Linen also include associated Quarter.

In addition to administrative redeveloping functions.

Thespace workssuch are as thethe firstcar under-utilised phase a major capital of expenditure park atofthe intersection Clarence St and Linenhall St, to ourdevelop latest plans project

by Randox the will alsoMassereene seek to revive a selection former Army Barracks of existing buildings Bedford into ‘Randox Scienceon Park’ – a St to offer much-needed, high quality futuristic R&D andlarger manufacturing offices. Our new, proposals will facility.

The award-winning, increase our investment in the area, international biotechnology firm, in and is testament to our confidence Belfast’s position trade, unveiled its plans as forananattractive innovative employment leisure destination. hub on the 43and acre site earlier this ” The new proposal will provide Grade year.

A office space with alternative ground Welcoming the announcement, floor uses, and has been designed Damien Hughes, Director of TAL

by Hester Architect practice.

The Limited commented: “We are regeneration will look to respect the delighted to have been rich built heritage of theawarded surrounding

this contract with Randox, one of Linen Conservation Areadynamic whilst Northern Ireland’s most future-proofing the Linen and exciting businesses onQuarter’s a local position as a landmark business and and global level. Through the quality leisure district. of our work and the dedication and professionalism of our team TAL has The Linen Quarter, which has been steadily grown business over the district last 34 for years a longstanding Belfast has been experiencing and thiscity, contract award reinforces a significant in recent the strengthregeneration of our expertise in the months, including the BBC’s proposals healthcare sector.” for the redevelopment of Broadcasting The project will be delivered House on Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, to BIMwill level in partnership which see2 the creation of a new with thehub’ design team andBBC ‘central linking theOstick existing buildings Architects, and development of Best, a new Williams Rainey & public plaza on Linenhall Doran Consulting, Delap Street. & Waller Consulting Engineers and Charles Philip Stinson, Director with the Hutchison Consulting. project’s planning consultants Turley Drcommented: Peter FitzGerald, Managing also “We are delighted

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Director at Randox commented: “The to support Domus UK inScience its plans development of Randox to bring further regeneration to the Park is core to our plans to create Linen Quarter. The new extended innovative diagnostics, to improve plans will seek to redevelop spaces manufacturing efficiency tothe export in the district and support high-value healthcare capabilities to city’s ambitions to offer greater city world This and state-of-the-art centre markets. employment investment opportunities. ” premises will become a centre of cutting-edge research, development Subject to planning approval,covering the and diagnostic manufacture, redevelopment plans will begin in conditions such as cancer, stroke and winter 2020. heart disease. We will also provide a significant to the local economy As part ofboost the Pre-Application Community through newConsultation job creation.process, We very Domuslook UK forward Ltd will run a drop-in much to working with publiconexhibition 16th January TAL this initialon contract to deliver from 3pm - 7pm at the Clayton Hotel, the high quality infrastructure we Ormeau Avenue, Belfast, to further require. discuss ”its proposals with the public.

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

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06|

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Successful CIOB Graduation Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year growth plan in UK and Ireland.

Event in Belfast NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists ANewtownabbey-based Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) M&E services ceremony company, graduation Harvey Group, has acquired took place recently renewable inNorthern BelfastIreland City Hall. energy specialists, One Fellow andSolmatix 45 Members joined Renewableswere in a move the by Peter McReynolds companies say will transform - the Deputy Lordenergy Mayor, renewable sector as well as Rebecca in Northern Ireland and act Thompson FCIOB - Past as a springboard for further President of the CIOB, expansion Gumble into the multiCaroline - Chief million pound Ireland Executive of UK theand CIOB, renewable markets. and Ivan energy McCarthy The acquisition, for an FCIOB - Trustee of the CIOB. Thesum, Belfast undisclosed will bringHub to 110 committee wereemployed also on the number of people hand the occasion, directlyfor by the Harvey Group in with Gary Blair FCIOB, Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Chair of the CIOB With aHub turnover of £30 million Belfast leading the and over 80 staff, Harvey Group ceremony.

has over 30 years’ experience in the installation and The day design, had a theme of celebration, both for the individuals graduating maintenance of building services within every conceivable kind of building type throughout NI, GB and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

and for the industry that they help to the company has grown torecalled achieve a develop.

Caroline Gumble turnover of £6 million, with 30who staff a quote by Winston Churchill, operating from its Fellow Nutt’s Corner was an Honorary of the Institute, “We make our buildings and premises. afterwards, they us. They regulate As a result of make the deal, Solmatix the continue course oftoour lives.” as an will operate The graduates’ families and friends autonomous and independent were on hand to cheer them on, as company within Harvey Group they accepted their certificates.

Brian Harvey, managing director of HarveyThompson Group, said therespoke was Rebecca FCIOB aabout perfect fit between the two being a ‘why’ person, “The organisations.

CIOB is here to change the industry, make diverse and inclusive to “Weit more have been planning to enableour therenewables most competent leaders grow involvement to succeed.

Buildings about the for some time, either are organically people that use them, they should or through the acquisition of an be accessible, safe, high quality, and established player.friendly.

HavingHopefully, worked you environmentally with Solmatix Renewables on Today want to be a part of the change. ais number contracts, only theofstart of yourwe’d journey. Today always been impressed withdo your you have a choice; you can how engineering and what, orrigour you can their andchallenge ‘why’ and get involved yourseemed local professionalism.

In fact, inthere committee, become a Trustee, or even to be a natural synergy between President. ” our two companies in terms of what we do and how we do it. I approached Richard Bell about a 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 design and delivery of prestigious, offsite bespoke concrete building systems.

Creagh Concrete’s Chief Executive, Seamus McKeague, said: “We’re proud to open these new offices, which were needed because of the rapid growth of the business.

In recentpioneering years Creagh production of Randox’s has moved from being just a and concrete medical diagnostic products will and materials supplier to a specialist also include associated administrative subcontractor, which has opened functions.

The works are thesome first up new opportunities.

Today, phaseofofour a major capital expenditure 85% turnover comes from Great and we also seeing projectBritain

by Randox toare develop the new opportunities in the former Massereeneunfolding Army Barracks Republic of Ireland. into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a “We believe that Creagh is leading the futuristic R&D and manufacturing market with innovation in concrete, facility. The award-winning, providing new solutions across the international biotechnology firm, construction industry.

Our turnover unveiled its plans to 31 March 2020for willanbeinnovative £110m and, based the43pipeline of earlier contracts hub ononthe acre site this secured, we expect turnover to year. grow to £200mthe byannouncement, 2020/21. We Welcoming hope to increase direct employment Damien Hughes, Director of TAL to 1,000 in the next year, growth Limitedwill commented: “We which support a lot of are additional delighted to have been awarded employment in our local community.”

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.

“Harvey Group and Solmatix share similar values, by which I mean our commitment to professionalism, our desire to deliver our services to the very highest standards, and the importance we place on treating our customers, our suppliers and our staff with courtesy and consideration.”

Richard Bell, the founder and managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition Creagh Concrete’s latest construction projects include Circle Square, a sixstorey hotel on top of a 9-storey car park in Manchester and St. Martin’s Place, a 17-storey premium residential development in Birmingham, both due for completion soon. Other multimillion-pound contracts won this contract with Randox, one of recently include a 7-storey apartment Northern Ireland’s most dynamic block in Chatham Waters, Kent, a and exciting businesses a local 17-storey five-star hotel on in Portland and global level.

Through the quality Street, Manchester and a 14-storey of our work and inthe dedication apartment block Sutton Court,and Surrey. professionalism of our team TAL has Mr McKeague “We seen steadily grownadded: over the lasthave 34 years many good Northern Ireland based and this contract award reinforces companies who have gone out and the strength of our expertise in the found new markets. In some sectors healthcare sector.” dominant players. they have become The project will be delivered Many are our customers and we have to BIM level in partnership followed their2 lead to help us identify new with opportunities. the design team Ostick and “Today, have active jobs from the WilliamsweArchitects, Rainey & Best, north Scotland to Southampton DoranofConsulting, Delap & Waller and we are able to service those Consulting Engineers and Charles jobs because we have invested in Hutchison Consulting. manufacturing bases in England, Dr Peter Scotland andFitzGerald, NorthernManaging Ireland.”

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 organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power.

Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as 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. “

Creagh Concrete targets £200m turnover and 1,000 staff Toomebridge headquartered concrete products manufacturer Creagh Concrete has invested £1m in new offices to accommodate the company’s growing workforce.

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park One of the UK’s largest producers of concrete products for a range of market sectors, Creagh operates from five sites across GB and Northern Ireland, including its head office and largest manufacturing site in Toomebridge.

Privately owned by the McKeague family, thea company has for grown WItH reputation significantly in the past two yearshigh to excellence in constructing now employ over 700 staff, including quality projects, tAL Limited 300 at its primary location. To has been awarded a significant accommodate the expansion, a new contract (£3.1m) by global 6,500 sq. ft. office block has now been medical company completeddiagnostics next to The Elk complex on the Hillhead Road and staff from Randox.

Creagh’s Rapidres team moved This initial contract is have for the in.

This team are responsible for construction of a new facility forthe

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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

06| 08

digest digest

Henry wins National British Harvey Brothers Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year Chamber Award growth plan in UK and Ireland.

Magherafelt based construction company NI M&E Henry Brothersservices Ltd, which is still owned Newtownabbey-based and by the Henry M&Erun services company, family, have has been Harvey Group, acquired awarded Family Northern Ireland renewable Business of the Year at energy specialists, Solmatix the Annual Business Renewables a move the Awards in in London by companies will transform the Britishsay Chambers of the renewable energy sector Commerce. in Northern Ireland and act After the Northern Ireland as awinning springboard for further heat of the competition earlier expansion into the multi-this year, the Magherafelt construction firm million pound UK and Ireland went on to collect the national award renewable energy markets. at a gala event in London recently. The The acquisition, for an now in Chamber Business Awards, bring to 110 itsundisclosed 16th year, issum, one will of the showpiece the number of people employed events in the business calendar, directly bythe therole Harvey Group in in highlighting of business delivering for Northerngrowth Irelandand andprosperity Great Britain. the UK anda local communities.

With turnover of £30 million and over 80 staff, Harvey Group The judging panel praised the firm for has over 30 years’ experience its impressive turnover and profit over in last the three design,years, installation and true the while staying maintenance of building services to the values that Jim Henry founded within everyon conceivable kindwere of the company in 1976. They building typeasthroughout GB congratulated a business,NI, operating inand a challenging sector, and their family RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ values shone through; their ethos Cleanrooms, Laboratories, ofEducation, cooperation, fairness and mutual Government and support is admirable.

Healthcare . Richard and NorahSpeaking about the win David Henry, Anne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, Managing Director, said,and since then “This award is testament to the hard work and effort that my father, Jim, has put into the business since he started it over 40 years ago and the pride that we as the second generation have in

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 Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). for some time, either organically as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition of an customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey established player. Having worked “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise with Solmatix Renewables on of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. always been impressed with organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix their engineering rigour and enhanced technical share similar values, which I Julie mean Jim Henry, Chairman, hisseemed wife, Ray, alongside daughter, HRbyDirector McKeown received the skills, financial professionalism.

In fact,and there resources and purchasing power. ourExchange commitment to professionalism, Award from Award Sponsor, London Stock representative, Umerah Akram. to be a natural synergy between Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to our two companies in terms of to greaterwith growth the very highest standards, and the compete the and best investment of business will continue to deliver the best takingwe it forward. what do and how we do it. I within our operations, wellareas importance we place on treating our from across the UK andaswe construction solution we possibly can approached Richard Bell about a delighted Brothers for every client, every time, “Thisago is not just an forour the more jobsthat andHenry job security.

It’shas a customers, our suppliers andwithout our staff year to float theaward idea of been awarded ‘Familythat’s Business fail – courtesy That’s what us Altogether family but for our employees, past and with win-win relationship goodof the andmakes consideration. ” companies coming together, but only Year’ onwhole a national stage. as Stronger”. present, that have helped us become for our organisation, Richard Bell, the founder and if there was a good fit. After careful the company that we are today. well as the economy of Northern managing director Solmatix consideration we both agreed The award is much deserved Congratulating theofHenry family Ireland. “ for the passion the Henry Renewables described the acquisition that indeedbybea mutually recognition on the award, Ann McGregor, Chief “Wethis arewould surrounded fantastic family has for the business and for Executive, Northern Ireland Chamber team of people who take the their contribution to the construction of Commerce and Industry added: threads of our ethos, values, morals industry here. On behalf of everyone “The National Chamber Business and standards and weave them at NI Chamber, congratulations to the Awards are an opportunity for through every part of the business, entire Henry Brothers team.’

Northern Ireland businesses to which is evident for all to see. We

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

Irish Interconnector receives EU funding A one billion Euro Celtic Interconnector is to be built which will connect Ireland’s electricity network to France via an underwater connection of some 575kms. Once WItH reputation for built,aits 700 megawatts excellence constructing capacityinwill power high quality projects, tAL Limited 450,000 households, and help Ireland to has been awarded a significant switch to 70% renewable contract (£3.1m) by global energydiagnostics as set out in the medical company Government’s Climate Randox.

Action Plan.

This initial contract is for the construction a new facility A vital part ofofProject Irelandfor

production of Randox’s pioneering medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative 2040, the The Interconnector is likely functions. works are the first to drive electricity prices for phase of down a major capital expenditure the consumer through increased project

by Randox to develop the competition. former Massereene Army Barracks The interconnector will also provide into ‘Randox Science –a improved security andPark’ diversification futuristic R&Dsupply. and manufacturing of electricity In addition, it will facilitateThe theaward-winning, further development of facility. renewable energy as Irish renewable international biotechnology firm, electricityitscan be for exported rather unveiled plans an innovative than curtailed or restricted, especially hub on the 43 acre site earlier this in the night time when demand for year. electricity is lower.

Welcoming announcement, Speaking at anthe official European Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Commission event in Brussels, Minister Sean Canney, welcomed Limited commented: “Wethe areformal signing of to an have unprecedented grant delighted been awarded award to an Irish project:

this contract with Randox, one of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic and exciting businesses on a local “I amglobal privileged represent and level. to Through the the quality Government at such an historic and of our work and the dedication occasion. Today of represents critical professionalism our teamaTAL has step forward for Ireland in our steadily grown over the last 34 years electricity story. and this contract award reinforces the of our expertise in the Thestrength official confirmation that €530m in grant aidsector. from ”the European healthcare Commission establish The projectwill willsee beIreland delivered an BIM electricity with France. Not to level 2link in partnership alone will this link join us to the with the design team Ostick and French market, but it also ensures we Williams Architects, & Best, are embedded in theRainey EU’s Internal Doran Delap & Waller Energy Consulting, Market. After Brexit, such a link Consulting and Charles is essential Engineers to ensure Ireland is able to maintain access to all the benefits this Hutchison Consulting. pan market brings”.

DrEuropean Peter FitzGerald, Managing

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Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create Minister Canney also noted the innovative diagnostics, to improve telecommunications potential of the manufacturing efficiency to export interconnector: “Commendably, high-value healthcare capabilities to this electricity interconnector world markets.

This state-of-the-art also includes telecommunications premises become the a centre of spec capability. will Strategically, project cutting-edge research, of development includes the provision direct fibre connection to continental Europe. and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and Currently thereWe is no heart disease. willdirect also provide a telecommunications connectivity significant boost to the local economy between Ireland and France so all through new jobIreland, creation.

Weand very traffic between France much look forward to working with the rest of mainland Europe must TAL on this initial the contract to UK deliver first pass through UK, the Landhigh Bridge.

Thisinfrastructure interconnector the quality Susan Masonwe RICS serves us require. ” well in both electricity and telecommunications terms”.

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

06|

|09

Gilbert-Ash appointed toasdeliver £17M Harvey Group acquires Solmatix part of 5 year construction project growth plan in UK and Ireland.in Oxford Gilbert-Ash, has won M&Edesign services a NI £17million and build contract at Newtownabbey-based one ofservices England’s most M&E company, historically significant Harvey Group, has acquired colleges.

Northern Ireland renewable energy specialists, Solmatix Trinity College, a constituent college of a move theRenewables University of in Oxford, wasthe granted companies say will transform planning permission last year for renewable energy sector thethe erection of the new high-quality building.

It is set toIreland provideand teaching in Northern act facilities, residential accommodation as a springboard for further and a multi-purpose auditorium. expansion into the multiAdvanced logistical planning is pivotal million pound UK and Ireland in this project as the new building will berenewable located on aenergy sensitivemarkets. site close to The acquisition, angardens. several listed buildingsfor and undisclosedthe sum, bringbuilding to 110 It represents firstwill major the number people for employed project at TrinityofCollege over 50 years. directly by the Harvey Group in The new building willand alsoGreat be home Northern Ireland Britain. to additional formal study spaces, a With a turnover of £30 million new reception area designed as an and over 80 staff, Harvey Group orangery overlooking the gardens and has over 30 years’ experience two additional student kitchens. There thea design, willinbe kitcheninstallation to provideand catering maintenance of building services facilities, laundry and basement storage within as every kind of facilities, well conceivable as male, female and gender-neutral bathrooms building type throughout NI, and GB ancillary accommodation. and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ It has been designed in a classical Cleanrooms, Laboratories, manner with Government traditional materials Education, and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

a honey coloured ashlar limestone company acquires renewable energy specialists to complement buildings across the

college and ensure it sits comfortably the company has grown to achieve a with its historic setting. turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff operating from its Nutt’s Corner Raymond Gilroy, Gilbert-Ash premises.

Construction Director, commented, As a result of the deal, Solmatix “Gilbert-Ash is really pleased to be will continue to operate as an working on this major project for Trinity College. We are excited about autonomous and independent the new building and what it will offer company within Harvey Group to the university community. We are Brian Harvey, managing director in no doubt about the challenges of Harvey Group, said there was which lie ahead, working in a tight a perfect fit between the two location surrounded by listed buildings organisations. and grounds, but our team has the “We have been planning to experience to meticulously plan for Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement and work through any challenges Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). which present themselves.” for some time, either organically as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition of an customers, suppliers and have staff. been having Solmatix as part of Harvey The structural challenges established player. Having worked “In many respects, it’s a and case Group gives us a level of expertise addressed through the sub with Solmatix Renewables on superstructure strategies, which in of ‘business as usual’.

However, that would have taken us years to a number of contracts, we’d include contiguous piledofbasement real terms, being part this larger acquire otherwise. always been impressed with retaining walls, internal organisation will give usload access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix their engineering rigour and bearing piles with in-situ concrete enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean professionalism. In fact, there seemed basement and ground floor slabs. resources and purchasing our commitment to professionalism, The superstructure will be power. an in-situ to be a natural synergy between Ultimately I believe this willwith lead our desire to deliver our services to RC frame up to roof level our two companies in terms of Raymond Gilroy, Gilbert-Ash Construction Director, to greater growth and investment proprietary timber trusses and large the very highest standards, and the what we do and how we do it. I concrete beamsasatwell firstasand within ourtransfer operations, importance we place on treating our approached Richard Bell about a being carefully considered to reflect elsewhere thesuppliers college. Itand willour have ground leveland to accommodate more jobs job security. It’slarge a customers,inour staff yearestablished ago to floatarchitectural the idea of character our the stone-faced elevations finished in open column free spaces. 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

Construction Hub CPD Workshop Lisburn firm TAL awarded Campus the first major construction at SERC’s Lisburn contract at Randox Science Park of Construction,

Delegates from across the regional colleges recently attended a workshop at South Eastern Regional College’s (SERC) Lisburn Campus on Advanced Surveying Techniques and Equipment.

The workshop was facilitated by the FE Sector Construction WItH a reputation for Hub and delivered by leading supplierhigh excellence in constructing of surveying equipment TopCon. quality projects, tAL Limited Delegates enjoyed learning about a has been awarded a significant range of industry standard equipment contract (£3.1m) by globaland his from TopCon’s Jonathan Argue medical company team whichdiagnostics covered a range of topics including Randox.Mass Data Collection, Data Sets, Laser Scanners Totalthe Station.

This initial contractand is for John Nixon, SERC’s Head of School construction of a new facility for

Engineering Services production of Randox’s pioneering this contract with Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The and Skillsdiagnostic for medical products and will Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science Work and Head also include associated administrative and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create of Construction functions.

The works are the first and global level.

Through the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve Hub said, “This phase of a was major of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export Workshop a capital expenditure project

by Randox to develop the professionalism of our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to great collaboration between the FE former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art Colleges and TopCon into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of Itfuturistic marks the firstand of amanufacturing R&D the strength of our expertise in the cutting-edge research, development series of Continuing facility. The award-winning, healthcare sector.” and diagnostic manufacture, covering Professional international biotechnology firm, The project will be delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and Development events unveiled its plansbyfor an innovative to BIM level 2 in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a being facilitated hubConstruction on the 43 acre site earlier this with the design team Ostick and significant boost to the local economy the Hub year. and I would like Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, through new job creation. We very Delegates from Further and Higher Education Colleges attended the FE Sector Construction to Welcoming thank Jonathan the announcement, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller much look forward to working with Continuing Professional Development Workshop at SERC’s Lisburn Campus. The and his team fromDirectorHub’s Damien Hughes, of TAL Consulting Engineers and Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver TopCon for their training was delivered by representatives from leading supplier of surveying equipment Limited commented: “We are Hutchison Consulting. the high quality infrastructure we valuable input.“ TopCon including Jonathan Argue. delighted to have been awarded Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

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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.

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20/08/2014 16:45

digest digest

06| 10

Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year Meeting talent demand growth plan in UK and Ireland. through apprenticeships.

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

A growing number of companies are increasingly using apprenticeships to develop their future workforce. the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, has acquired premises.

Northern Ireland renewable As a result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix will continue to operate as an Renewables in a move the autonomous and independent companies say will transform company within Harvey Group the renewable energy sector Brian Harvey, managing director in Northern Ireland and act of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboard for further a perfect fit between the two expansion into the multiorganisations. million pound UK and Ireland “We have been planning to renewable energy markets. grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an for some time, either organically undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 or through the acquisition of an 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 their engineering rigour and has over 30 years’ experience professionalism. In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and 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 Norahwe Awards both agreed Anne Bell launching founded Solmatix Pictured the Northern Irelandconsideration Apprenticeship that this would indeed be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then 2020 are left to right Sarah Travers, Permanent Secretary for the Department for the Economy Noel Lavery, Apprentice of the Year 2018 Tammy Whelan and Tommy Bowe

apprenticeships with its Apprenticeship Grant scheme and the Department for the Economy is keen to recognise excellence through its Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards 2020, the final of which will take place during the inaugural NI Apprenticeship Week (3-7 February 2020).

Christina Walsh, HR & Training Manager at Geda says that “it provides the opportunity to work with other organisations in shaping the future of Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth the industry.” Other employers, such Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). as Melanie Thrush from Arup see it as healthy great news for Solmatix, beneficial. From my perspective, as for their companyitsculture, “Workplus a great opportunity customers, issuppliers and staff. to having Solmatix as part of Harvey diversify yourrespects, workforce bring a “In many it’s and a case Group gives us a level of expertise new dynamic to your team.

It was of ‘business as usual’.

However, in a that would have taken us years to great boost for us to have one of our real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. apprentices Tammy Whelan recognised organisation giveYear us access “Harvey Group and Solmatix as Apprenticewill of the 2019.”to enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean resources and purchasing our commitment to professionalism, Richard says that “meeting power. apprentices who didn’t Ithink theythis could Ultimately believe will ever lead join our desire to deliver our services to in fantastic sector what inspires tothis greater growth andisinvestment the very highest standards, and the me to develop it further. within our operations, asWe wellmust as importance we place on treating our ensure that the message is clear that more jobs and job security.

It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff construction is open for business” win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy and consideration.”

Find out more at workplus.app for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, the founder and well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition Richard Kirk

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction however since April 2019 Workplus Since 2016 Workplus is an independentScience organisation. contract Park has facilitated at Randox “Working with 30 organisations in apprenticeships for over 130 people ranging from Level 3 at college up to Masters degree level.

Director of Workplus, Richard Kirk, is clear that apprenticeships are the future of work and education in the construction sector.

WItH a reputation for entrants “Most apprentices are new but employersinare also using high excellence constructing apprenticeships to upskill existing staff. quality projects, tAL Limited The been rewardawarded for the apprentice is a job has a significant and education without student fees. contract by apply global They learn (£3.1m) in real-time, their medical diagnostics company knowledge and become part of the Randox. company culture much more earlier than if they full-time. ” This initialstudied contract is for the Richard developed Workplus construction of a new facility in for2014 when he was Regional Director of ICE,

production of Randox’s the construction sector, itpioneering became clear thatdiagnostic there wasproducts a need to medical and will develop apprenticeships in areas such also include associated administrative as quantityThe surveying, functions. works construction are the first management and building service phase of a major capital expenditure engineering. I’m working closely with project by Randox developschools the employers, colleges,to university, former Massereene and young people toArmy growBarracks a culture of in Northern intoapprenticeships ‘Randox Science Park’ – a Ireland sectors, which will futuristicacross R&Dall and manufacturing benefit young people, employers and, facility. The award-winning, ultimately, society.” international biotechnology firm, unveiled itsa plans for anemployer innovative Becoming Workplus hub on the 43 acremembership site earlier this involves corporate year. to support the work to change perceptions of the apprenticeships Welcoming announcement, in schoolsHughes, and with parentsofand Damien Director TAL applications are centralised through Limited commented: “We are a portal hosted by Workplus. CITB is delighted to supporting have been the awarded also actively uptake of

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

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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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12| Ridgeway

Ridgeway – 50 Years of Excellence and Innovation

From a starting point fifty years ago in traditional building supplies, Ridgeway has become a supply chain partner of choice for major companies operating in a range of sectors, encompassing construction, engineering, off shore, oil and gas; bringing innovations in both products and processes in every sphere.

The Belfast of 1969, rife with the civil unrest that launched three decades of ‘the troubles’ was hardly the ideal setting for a new business start-up.

That is just what Ridgeway founders, Maurice Kane and Norman Adamson did, launching their business in Belfast’s Ridgeway Street to service the needs of building trades such as painters, steelworkers and electricians and to promote working safely at heights with a range of products.

Thanks to the pragmatism and hard work of the partners, the company thrived and grew steadily throughout the years of unrest in Northern Ireland, moving premises several times to accommodate growth, from

“We were first to market in Northern Ireland with a host of products and solutions for construction.”

Ridgeway Street to Finaghy, then to the Boucher Road industrial area and finally, in 2004, to its current location in Belfast Harbour Estate and in Ashbourne just outside Dublin.

Maurice Kane’s philosophy was simple: know your customers, understand their needs in detail and meet those needs, not only with the products they ask for but also with innovative construction and engineering solutions that would save time and add value to the build process. Ensuring compliance with

legislation and enhancing safety at work were equally important to the Ridgeway business model and helped cement its reputation as a ‘go to’ destination for the best products, solutions and operating methods.

Last, but by no means least, rigorous financial management ensured a low gearing ratio which served to protect the business and allow for continual and sustainable growth.

Since 1994, under the stewardship of Maurice’s son, Stephen Kane these basic tenets still underpin a business

that has continued to innovate in its core construction and engineering markets and has also diversified into new sectors.

Stephen Kane commented: ‘Ridgeway has always focused on innovation.

We were first to market in Ireland with the introduction of a host of products and solutions for construction, for example, lightweight aluminium scaffolding, elevated work platforms, edge protection systems, temporary site fencing and demarcation, steel and GRP walkway solutions. Likewise, it was Ridgeway that first launched architectural metal mesh , welded gabions for cladding and land and sea reinforcement, high security perimeter protection and airless paint spraying and pumping solutions to the market here.’

‘Our core market sectors are continually developing and Ridgeway is instrumental in collaborating with manufacturers and their customers for continuous improvement to solutions. This approach ensures we stay at the forefront of markets needs and expectations. At the same time, we continue to lead the way in new market sectors for the company, such as aerospace, wind energy and marine defences.’

People matter As with almost every successful company, the people who make up the Ridgeway team have been pivotal to success.

‘With a focus on innovation and best value at the core of the business, we needed people who would commit to our business, share our goals and help us to deliver, year on year,’ explained Stephen. ‘We have built a strong team who know and

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Ridgeway |13 and we offer aftersales and ongoing continuous professional development support and training. Ridgeway is not there simply to sell and walk away, we are a supplier partner to our customers and, as such, we’re with them every step of the way. Again, this comes down to the fact that we have the right people with the right skills, knowledge and experience on our team.’

Looking outwards

understand our products and solutions, our ethos and our vision for the future. We all work together and have a lot of fun doing what we do, thriving on the success of our customers and their projects, with whom we work as key partner suppliers. The development and dedication of our loyal staff have been at the centre of our success, alongside our close customer support relationships. That’s something we are extremely

proud of.’

In terms of staff and, crucially, customer retention, training play a key role. Each product or system requires detailed knowledge to specify and implement with due regard to installation, health and safety and legislative compliance when the system is operational.

‘Ridgeway prides itself on being a responsible supplier and education and training go handin-hand with selling our portfolio of products and systems. We train our customers’ staff on the correct handling, installation, use and maintenance of our systems, we work with architects and engineers on the design side

While Ridgeway’s roots were firmly embedded in the local Northern Ireland market, one which is still of utmost importance, economic, market and even political changes have been factors in fostering a strong outward-looking and export focus for the company, which, together with the team’s innovation ethos has taken Ridgeway to a new level with an active participation in the UK mainland also in Europe from their base just outside Dublin and via a growing network of clients working in the Middle East as well as Africa.

‘The ability to seek work outside Northern Ireland has always been a driver for our major companies, who have shown that resilience and determination will lead to success, together with a dynamic and flexible supply chain mobilised to support them. Our construction and engineering industry’s capability and “get the job done” mentality has been central to our ability to deliver on the global stage and become more independent.

From Ridgeway’s earliest days, selfgenerating growth has been at the core of our business thinking and our push into new markets, both technologically and physically, is the next step in that philosophy.’

Innovation at sea and rivers For Ridgeway, expansion into new markets has involved moving into sectors such as offshore wind, oil and gas installations and civil engineering solutions for flood water defence, where the company’s particular expertise has been bringing niche products to market to solve the particular challenges. An excellent example is a Filter Unit, made in Japan from 100% recycled materials.

The unit is filled with local aggregate and has a range of underwater applications.

‘Ridgeway already had experience in land and sea reinforcement solutions, so we could immediately see the huge benefits of these highly technical products,’ said Stephen. ‘We developed a strategy in collaboration with Sumitomo and Kwoya from Japan that would see the product introduced pan-Europe to target solutions in the civil engineering, offshore renewables, oil and gas sectors.’

Ridgeway was fast to impress the Japanese with its local UK and Ireland knowledge and its ability to mobilise staff expertise in promoting the product, while at the same time overcoming major cultural and language challenges during the process. Now with some major world first projects in these sectors involving major clients such as Orsted , Deep Ocean, TAQA, Statoil, Eon, SSE, EDF Energy , Environment Agency UK, DFI and Prysmain Cables , Ridgeway has established a firm base to develop the distribution of this much needed engineered solution to provide contractors and clients installation and maintenance benefits over traditional solutions, while at the same time promoting green, recycled, natural behaving products that utilise local aggregates and thus have a multiplier effect to local economic benefit.

Embracing the concept of using recycled materials for manufacturing and building products, Ridgeway has also introduced to market a range of WPC products (Wood Plastic Composite) for cladding and decking.

Relevant for construction projects from top-end commercial and retail to social and domestic housing schemes, civic landscaping projects and even at harbours and piers, WPC products offer a no maintenance, easy installation alternative to traditional timber or uPVC plastics.

The kind of forward thinking mentality that has brought these and so many more products and solutions to market, combined with the right people, knowledge and a “can do” attitude have underpinned Ridgeway’s continued growth and success since its inception over fifty years ago.

The company’s seamless move from building supply to construction and infrastructure supply chain partners and onwards to embrace offshore renewals with green solutions demonstrates the remarkable commitment to innovation which is driven by doing things better, safer and faster for less over the whole lifetime of a project or product.

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digest

14

One ‘L’ of a pick-up

One of the original and best 4x4 pick-ups, the Mitsubishi L200, has been given a makeover for 2020.

The new Series 6 model sets new segment standards for style, refinement, safety, efficiency and allround capability. With more than 4.7 million units built since its debut in 1978, the sixth generation L200 builds on Mitsubishi Motors’ 40year history of building tough and dependable pickups.

Priced from £21,515 for the entry level Mitsubishi L200 4Life Club Cab, the Series 6 has been engineered to be the most capable pickup Mitsubishi Motors has ever produced, introducing car-like levels of driving refinement and state-of-the-art safety systems to the segment, offering the perfect solution to motorists looking for the practicality and versatility of a pick-up without compromising on comfort, driving pleasure or running costs.

The Mitsubishi L200 Series 6 also makes significant advances in terms of its pickup capability. It remains a tough, dependable and capable workhorse, now with an increased payload of 1,080kg and gross train weight of 6,155kg, plus a significantly upgraded 4WD system further to enhance the L200’s outstanding offroad ability. Under the bonnet, a new Euro 6d compliant 2,268cc turbo diesel engine and a new six-speed

automatic transmission help deliver lower emissions and improved fuel efficiency resulting in significant fuel savings in the real world.

Among the new features of the new L200 are: All-new exterior design: • • • • • • •

• • • • • •

New front-end dominated by striking ‘Dynamic Shield’ design identity 40mm raised bonnet for more presence and easier manoeuvring LED headlamps and LED DRLs on the majority of range Purposeful, squared-off wheel arches 18-inch alloy wheels on the majority of range Driving dynamics: Upgraded 4WD system, incorporating a new “Off Road Mode” and a “Hill Descent Control” system New 2,268cc diesel engine (Euro 6d compliant) New 6-speed automatic transmission Larger brakes all-round on majority of range Revised suspension Improved ride comfort and handling Advanced new safety features

• • • • • • •

and technologies: Blind Spot Warning system with Lane Change Assist function (BSW & LCA) Rear Cross Traffic Alert system (RCTA) Forward Collision Mitigation system (FCM) Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS) Lane Departure Warning (LDW) Mitsubishi Active Stability & Traction Control (M-ASTC) Hill Start Assist (HSA)

• •

Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) function Trailer Stability Assist (TSA)

New interior features: •

Revised seating with improved bolstering

• •

Chunkier, heated steering wheel New instrumentation, including a full-colour LCD display

•

Improved storage

New Peugeot Expert Sport Edition Introducing a new flagship, Peugeot has added new Sport Edition variants to the Expert Panel Van and Crew Van model ranges. The Expert Sport Edition versions will be positioned above the Asphalt variants and will benefit from even more standard equipment.

Additional equipment for Sport Edition models includes: 17-inch Black Phoenix alloy wheels, Sports decals on the sides and rear of the van and dual zone automatic air conditioning.

Expert Sport Edition will be available in three colours: Cumulus Grey, Bianca White and Nera Black. All models will be based on the Expert Standard wheelbase.

Available from early 2020, the first Peugeot Expert Sport Edition models to reach showrooms will be the Expert Panel Van Sport Edition

BlueHDi 120 Stop & Start 6-speed manual 1400 and the Expert Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual 1400.

Panel Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 models will be powered by the Euro 6.2-compliant BlueHDi diesel engine, delivering 120hp at 3,750rpm and 340Nm of torque at 2,000rpm. Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 models will be powered by the uprated Euro 6.2 BlueHDi diesel engine producing 148hp at 4,000rpm and 370Nm of torque at 2,000rpm.

Payload and load volume remain the same as for other Expert models.

Panel Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 will carry a maximum indicative payload of 1,458kg with 5.3m3 of load volume that can be extended to 5.8m3 with the Moduwork® seat folded.

Equivalent payload and body volume data for the Expert Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual 1400 are 1,308kg and 3.2m3.

Crew Van Sport Edition models feature a second row three seater bench seat with three, three-point seatbelts and under seat storage space.

A full height toughened composite bulkhead with polycarbonate window separates the cab from the load area.

The rear seats are accessed through twin glazed sliding side doors with noise reducing fixed windows.

Two additional models are available

to order. The Expert Panel Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 180 S&S EAT8 Auto 1200 and Expert Crew Van Sport Edition BlueHDi 180 S&S EAT8 Auto 1200 and both gain the most powerful version of the 1,997cc Euro 6.2 BlueHDi turbo-diesel engine, producing 174hp at 3,750rpm and a formidable 400Nm of torque at 2,000rpm. Both models will be equipped with the EAT8 eight-speed automatic transmission as standard.

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16| John Simpson

Capital programmes derailed

by John Simpson

Taking Energy by the Horns: Kerry Muldoon (SONI); Damien O’Mullan (NI Water); Eddie McGoldrick (The Electric Storage Company); Christopher Morrow (NI Chamber); Rachel Sankannawar (Invest NI) and Paul Friar (Smurfit Kappa) are pictured at the latest Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry and SONI Energy Forum. Hosted in Invest NI, the event was an opportunity for over 100 major energy users and suppliers to discuss significant changes within the energy sector and learn from sustainability case study examples, including Lurgan paper packaging manufacturer, Smurfit Kappa.

Northern Ireland enters 2020 with higher degrees of business uncertainty than businesses would wish. Brexit is not finished, devolved Government is still deferred and issues of income inequality and the threats of climate change all call for the decision making of a competent Government.

These uncertainties have a cumulative nature which suggests that Northern Ireland is sitting at the wrong end of the queue to find answers.

The absence of devolved Government is accumulating the consequences of delayed decision making. Inevitably this

highlights changes which should follow the introduction of new policies which need political endorsement as well as capital investments delayed. Many of these delays affect the construction industry not just as a current loss of activity but also in the sequential damage.

expected from delays for: • The Belfast rail and bus transport hub • A5 road schemes • Belfast road interchange for M1, M2 and M3.

• Slow take-up of Belfast Region and Derry-Londonderry City Deals

The construction industry is an indirect casualty.

All of these schemes depend on a series of policy decisions which means that either the Northern Ireland Executive should be restored or (less likely) that a form of Direct Rule might be introduced.

Examples where conspicuous damage has already been caused include: • Lack of progress in the N-S electricity grid project • Lack of progress for the health service through the Bengoa proposals • Delays to capacity improvements for the Water Service • Reform of the Housing Executive and its housing regeneration plans Less immediately conspicuous but potentially major effects can be

Securing a framework for the policy and political decision making may be within the grasp of a reshaped Executive but will be a key test to the working of devolved institutions. The scope for debate and further delay may lie in the sequencing of decision making. In turn that will be a test of the financial management. Can

enough of these projects be launched drawing on the capital budget allowed to Stormont?

With a new UK Government in place and a Chancellor of the Exchequer committed to the publication of a new UK budget, one critical issue for Northern Ireland will be the assessment of the allowed Barnet consequentials for a local capital programme. The Labour Party prospectus explicitly linked these features. The Conservative Party seemed to endorse a significant increase in capital spending but with less clarity on the mechanisms.

There is little assurance that the new Government will be sympathetic to an enhanced Northern Ireland public sector capital programme.

The new UK Government is not likely to be sympathetic to major changes in social policy on the scale envisaged

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John Simpson| 17

before the end of the year and, if not, then next December there will be another round of debates about ‘leaving with NO deal’.

Businesses and community activists in Northern Ireland will have a direct interest in these negotiations which will produce agreement on diverse aspects of trade, payments and regulatory standards.

A critical theme will be the extent to which the UK-EU agreement will maintain regulatory alignment.

Continuing regulatory alignment is an attractive option which would be less disruptive to existing trading patterns.

However, there is the danger that those interest groups that want to ‘take back control’ might argue for changes.

by the Labour Party. This also has implications for Northern Ireland.

The special existing social security mitigation measures agreed by the Treasury are due to end in March 2020. Linked to the adoption of the new social welfare schemes, particularly Universal Credit, this may contribute to the further development of tensions in the management of social housing and in the degrees of social hardship which have been growing.

Whether the UK Government will

maintain the restrictive effects of limiting social benefits linked to family size and also maintain the current rules on the (so-called) bed-room tax is a controversial decision which has a proportionately heavier impact in Northern Ireland.

Into the complex mix of social, economic and financial features there must also be added the unfinished business of Brexit. For Brexit, the election result at Westminster has given an answer to the ‘big’ question: Brexit can now ‘get done’.

The election has not given the

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certainty that might have been reassuring either for the whole of the UK or more specifically for Northern Ireland. A big step towards Brexit has now been made, but only one big step.

There is no surprise that the unfolding sequence of decision making that must now follow could still prove controversial. During 2020 the UK Government must contribute to detailed negotiations on the shape of the continuing relationship with the EU (of 27 nations). That is a wide ranging series of negotiations which cannot be guaranteed to be complete

Northern Ireland trading relations intra the UK and with the EU seem likely to become more complicated.

Any regulatory divergences between GB and the EU, even if minor in nature or small in numbers, are destined to become an administrative part of the architecture of the economic border, notionally in the Irish Sea. Of course, although the deal agreed for the UK with the EU, is designed to minimise trade problems between the UK and the EU, there is no confident assurance that an effort may be made to remove the border in the Irish Sea. Brexit is moving on but at a pace coping with continuing uncertainties!

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Quarrystore | 19

Impressive new product range at Quarrystore

Ballymena based Quarrystore has expanded its range and after extensive research across both Europe and Asia the company is now ready to launch its exciting new products.

The impressive new range includes natural stone paving, porcelain paving, walling and cladding some of the new products are available in Ireland for the first time.

Quarrystore first emerged onto the market in 2012 and is built on half a century of experience in the quarrying business. The company has always been at the forefront of new developments and was the first quarry

company to offer an online store seven years ago.

This new venture marks a change of direction for this family-run quarrying company. It was established at Ladyhill Quarry, near Antrim in 1965, and continues to trade today from its most recent site at Tully Quarry, Moorfields Road, near Ballymena, where Quarrystore is also situated.

“This is new direction for Quarrystore,” Luke McMullan, Quarrystore’s Business Development Manager told Specify. “We started making plans to redevelop the company during the summer of 2018 and have researched the markets and the products in great depth since then.

We have just completed the construction of a 500 sq metre display area.

“We welcome all interested parties to come and view our new display,” continued Luke. “The QuarryStore mission is to offer a ‘One Stop Shop’ for all projects from schools and residential developments to home improvements and DIY enthusiasts. At all times we will strive to achieve the highest of standards expected by our customers.”

The company has experienced many changes over the years. It was originally set up to supply quarry materials, concrete and asphalt to major construction and road building projects in the local area of County Antrim. Quarrystore has brought new changes to Boville McMullan and to the traditional emphasis on quarrying at the Tully Quarry site, in Ballymena. The company’s ultimate focus is to provide both the building trade and the general public with top quality products at a competitive price.

Quarrystore aim to continue to set high standards for their excellent delivery service.

As well as supplying a wide range of high quality stone products, it also supplies sands, weed control fabrics, top soils and many more horticultural products.

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Women in Construction Up until recently, working in construction was seen as a job for the boys, but like construction itself, that attitude is changing.

Exciting, changeable, lucrative, construction is a career that offers women a treasure-trove of opportunity.

Women make up around 14% of construction industry professionals and this number can only be set to rise with more and more women choosing construction jobs. Misconceptions about gender-

specific roles are gradually diminishing with the growing number of women choosing a career in construction.

Technology and innovation have changed the face of the industry. Construction is no longer about manual labour and the idea that women are not physically strong enough to work in it is no longer relevant.

For one thing, women can handle the same power tools and operate the same machinery as men.

But there is also a huge diversity of rewarding, challenging professional roles in the industry, covering a wide range of disciplines, from architects, building surveyors, civil engineers, design managers, ecologists and economists, to project managers, risk

engineers, structural engineers and town planners.

Remaining perceptions of the industry being more attractive to men must surely fade away more quickly as the sector becomes increasingly reliant on digital technology, but we should not be waiting for that to happen to drive change in the image of the sector.

So, if you’re looking for a career that can keep you interested, pay’s you well and give you plenty of scope to rise in the ranks, then building and construction may be perfect for you. Specify talks to some women who work in construction in Northern Ireland‌

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CITB NI to host the first ever local Women in Construction Summit 2020 Thursday 5th March 2020

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Shaw’s Bridge, Belfast A full day of inspirational stories, business advice and career development for women currently working in the construction industry, and for employers who support diversity or best practice in the industry.

CITB NI, the industry training board for the construction industry are hosting their inaugural Women in Construction Summit to be held in Belfast on Thursday 5 March 2020.

With a view to inspiring change and shattering stereotypes the Women in Construction Summit will be a full day of inspirational stories, business advice and career development for women currently working in the construction industry, those thinking of joining and for employers who support diversity or best practice in the industry.

Barry Neilson, Chief Executive CITB NI said, “We are delighted to host our very first Women in Construction Summit in Northern Ireland and looking forward to an enjoyable and entertaining day. CITB NI run and facilitate the Women in Construction Network in Northern Ireland which is made up of a group of friendly, inspiring and dedicated women working in a wide range of roles within the construction industry.

This summit was inspired by the network to help to support and promote diversity within the growing construction industry.

With an ageing workforce, a skills shortage and the increasing use of new technologies, there has never been a better time to encourage more diversity in construction.

Increasing the talent pool and making it easier for women and other underrepresented populations to not just join the industry but to remain in the industry, is common sense for any employer. Given that it has been proven that more diversity in the workforce and particularly in leadership positions, can lead to higher profits and more innovation, it makes good business sense too. We look forward to a great event and we hope this summit will be the first of many on a local level.�

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Hosted by Sarah Travers and featuring leading industry professionals from local construction businesses such as Arup, Clanmil Housing, Farrans, Gilbert-Ash, GRAHAM, GRAHAMBAM, Henry Brothers, McAleer & Rushe, Nicola McCracken Safety Services, NIFRS, Scottish Water, Turner & Townsend, White Ink, and Women’sTEC, the Women in Construction Summit 2020 will highlight inspirational stories, provide thought-provoking tips on career management, help identify role models and provide an opportunity to expand professional networks.

The Women in Construction Summit will be held on Thursday 5 March 2020 and booking is now open via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ women-in-construction-ni-summit2020-tickets-71656038139 Registration from 9am, conference starts at 10am. Conference closes at 3.30pm.

Strand 1: Career Management and Progression Target Audience: Women currently in the construction industry Topics include mentoring, returning to work, building confidence and networks Strand 2: Applying the Business Case for Diversity Target Audience: Companies, Senior Management, HR Topics include recruiting an inclusive workforce, supporting returners, and best practice Tickets cost £25 per person CITB NI grant aid is not available for this event.

Have a question for one of our speakers? E-mail it to alison.mcclean@ citbni.org.uk and we will try to include it in our panel session.

Share your experience on social media using the hashtag #WICNSummitNI2020.

Women in Construction Video CITB NI has created a three-minute video featuring two women working in the construction industry in Northern Ireland. The video will feature on the CITB NI website and social media pages and will be used to promote the construction industry as a career in schools and at careers events.

Women in Construction Case Study Booklet The recently revised and updated Women in Construction booklet showcases a number of successful women who are working in a variety of roles in the construction industry. The booklet outlines the benefits of working in the industry and provides words of advice and encouragement for those thinking of a career in construction. The booklet will be used as a promotional tool and will be distributed at careers events and to schools across Northern Ireland.

Both the booklet and video can be accessed at CITB NI’s website https://www.citbni.org.uk/Careers/Women-in-Construction-(1).aspx

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Women in construction

Shauna young & Jude Jackson Heron Bros

2 St Patricks St, Draperstown, Magherafelt BT45 7A T: 028 9087 6000

|25 info@heronbros.com heronbros.com proudest achievement?

Each Tender/PQQ success fills me with extreme pride and to eventually see the finished project will always be quite special. Our bids are achieved through teamwork and each person is essential in building the content and contributing to a winning bid. – Jude Jackson

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank for your success?

Jude Jackson

Heron Bros pride ourselves on being a workplace that empowers and encourages the development of women within the construction industry and just two of them are Corporate Responsibility Manager, Shauna Young and Bid Manager, Jude Jackson.

Did you plan to work in the Construction Industry?

construction professionals. This is where my interest in the industry sparked. I had rose quickly through the ranks in the bank however, the financial crisis was stalling my career. I saw this as an opportunity, and I took a leap of faith to retrain as a Quantity Surveyor.

It was during my placement year as a trainee Quantity Surveyor with Heron Bros that I fell in love with the challenging nature of the construction industry. Every day brought a new challenge!

Shauna Young

How did you get where you are today?

My first role, outside of estimating was community liaison. I continued to work within the estimating department and assisted the construction sites with community liaison part time.

This involved working closely with local communities, employment and education partners, to support those looking to get back into work or wanting to a start a career in construction.

Six years on I am now Heron Bros Corporate Responsibility Manager.

I now manage the design, delivery, measurement and analysis of Heron Bros Corporate Responsibility Strategy. - Shauna Young

What has been the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?

No, my career started in the bank after completing a degree in Finance & Investment. My role in the bank allowed me to work closely with

Once graduated I started in Heron Bros as a junior estimator within the Tender and Bid team. – Shauna Young

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Fine tuning my time management skills! Bids is completely deadline driven and you need to fine tune your approach to managing a bid from start to finish while ensuring all milestones are met. However, the freedom within those parameters offers variety and each Bid Manager approaches this essential skill in their own unique way. – Jude Jackson

What has been your

A late colleague of mine from Tarkett (Pete Thomas – Environmental Manager) explained to me the art of a ‘back story’ and how the subtle nuances of accolades, developments and innovations build a wider picture with depth and substance and invoke a deep understanding of the calibre of your company in a manner other than the obvious sales pitch. I thoroughly admired the passion and dedication Pete had for his job and this has resonated with me and has certainly helped me in my approach to Bid writing. - Jude Jackson

What has been the best advice you’ve been given?

Know when to ask for help. With Bid Writing a fresh pair of eyes and a different perspective is often essential in helping you to improve a response that just doesn’t flow or is perhaps lacking the most obvious content.

So simple but so effective. – Jude Jackson

Would you recommend a career in construction to young women?

I encourage all women to investigate the different opportunities available to you and I applaud Heron Bros as they regularly feature the ladies of the company and promote the wide variety of job roles that are available and crying out for new talent. - Jude Jackson 100%, I have loved working within the construction industry over the past 10 years I would encourage all women to consider construction when looking for a long-term career! – Shauna Young

Altogether Stronger

Henry Brothers Limited is a leading privately owned Construction and Civil Engineering Company specialising in commercial, custodial, defence and education projects throughout the UK; and who are ‘Altogether Stronger’ as a result of a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Did you plan to work in the Construction Industry?

I never thought about working in Construction. Growing up I was always set on working in design and architecture but after learning of the various paths the construction industry can take you, I went down that route.

How did you get where you are today?

I first completed my degree in architecture and started working as a technician in architecture and consultancy firms. I was interested in project management so completed a Masters in BIM project management after researching the opportunities and advantages of BIM in the industry.

As this had a focus in my masters, I then joined Henry Brothers as a BIM coordinator.

Name: Laura Murphy Where do you live: Belfast Occupation: BIM coordinator

What has been the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?

The biggest hurdle would probably be when I first started working full time on site. I found it quite daunting being the only female and not knowing what to expect. I soon came to realise that it didn’t matter at all as everyone on site made me feel welcome and it can be much more interesting working there than in an office environment every day.

What has been your proudest achievement?

I consider myself still at the start of my career in BIM project management so my proudest achievement would probably be seeing the first project I

Name: Charlotte Scullion Where do you live: Ballymena Occupation: Group HR Advisor

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank for your success?

I would just like to thank my company, Henry Brothers for always providing me with the support in progressing in my career and offering me many opportunities in training and to learn, helping me build my knowledge within the industry.

What has been the best advice you’ve been given?

Always ask for help when I need it. If I’m unsure of answers or processes use my colleagues or who I know around me as there is always help available and someone who has more experience.

There is always something you don’t know, and it isn’t a sign of weakness.

Would you recommend a career in construction to young women?

Definitely. There are so many opportunities available in the industry for young women. The construction industry is continually changing, and women are seeing the great career aspects it can bring. We need to work towards creating a more diverse workforce by encouraging young women to enter a career in the construction industry. It’s not just for men!

Did you plan to work in the Construction Industry?

No, I had a keen interest in Business Studies and Employment Law and decided that I would pursue a career in Human Resources. I didn’t have a preference on the sector or industry in which I wanted to work. I never thought I would be in construction as I always saw it as a male dominated industry.

successfully securing permanent employment prior to me completing my degree. This was a large weight lifted off my shoulders as it was nearly unheard of in the current economic climate. It also allowed me to fully concentrate on my final year of University and continue to grow personally and professionally within Henry Brothers.

How did you get where you are today?

After completing my A Levels I went on to University of Ulster to complete Bsc Hons Human Resource Management with a Diploma in Professional Practice.

This was a four year course and in order to gain my Diploma in Professional Practice I was required to complete a 1 year full time placement. I had applied for a number of placements and got accepted by Henry Brothers. Prior to finishing my placement year, Henry Brothers offered me part-time work during my final year at University to suit my study commitments and upon graduation I was offered the permanent job I now hold.

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank for your success?

I would like to thank Henry Brothers and mainly Julie McKeown (HR Director) and Jennifer Cruickshank (HR & CR Manager). I could not fault the support and guidance from them both, by continuing to train and support me by passing down their skills and knowledge to kick start a successful career in HR.

What has been the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?

I have found that being a young female in a male dominated industry can at times be hard to gain respect.

What has been your proudest achievement?

My proudest achievement has been Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.co.uk

worked on completed and handed over on time knowing that I was part of the process.

What has been the best advice you’ve been given?

Never stop learning or growing as a person. HR and the construction industry is continually changing and it is important that I keep up to date.

Would you recommend a career in construction to young women?

I would highly recommend a career in construction to not only young women but anyone. It is a challenging but very rewarding industry to work in, with a vast amount of opportunities for growth and development.

Did you plan to work in the Construction Industry?

When completing my A levels, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors visited my school to encourage women to choose a career in the built environment, we had keynote talks from women who worked as commercial surveyors, engineers, project managers and architects. I remember at the time being attracted to the opportunity to work on large capital projects, on cross functional teams with a diverse work force.

This led me to undertake my undergraduate degree BSc in Property Investment & Development and a MSc in Construction & Project Management.

Name: Charlene Jones MSc CEnv IEMA CIS LA Where do you live: Belfast Occupation: Group Environment & QA Manager

How did you get where you are today?

I left university amid the worst financial recession to hit Northern Ireland in over five decades, the construction industry had stalled and the prospects for new graduates was bleak. Looking back now I found this a difficult period, I was well educated and prepared to enter the workforce only to discover there was little opportunity. I decided to work in a voluntary capacity to gain work experience. The experience landed me my first paid role, and I would soon learn that the experience I gained was instrumental in moulding my career path. Not only were the skills attained invaluable, but I learnt a lesson in humility and resilience; the sobering reality that my degree was not a fast track to employment.

It was hard work and the determination to succeed that secured my first position.

I was ambitious and looking for the next challenge when an opportunity to interview for the Group Quality Assurance and Environmental Manager position at Henry Group arose and I am pleased to say I was successful. I am a confessed workaholic and have worked hard over the last decade; construction necessitates long hours and

travel when working for a company which operates predominantly in the UK. I love my job; its exceptionally rewarding, every day is different; the construction industry by its very nature is dynamic with each project bringing exciting new challenges.

What has been the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?

Unconscious bias still exists in construction; an attitude that one gender is more capable when both genders can equally carry out a role. According to Gov.uk women make up 12% of professional roles in the industry, the gender gap is still prevalent; however, I see change on the horizon. In the last decade I have worked with many inspiring women who are leaders in their fields and have excelled in their roles. Their success is nothing to do with their gender but everything to do with their ambition and determination to thrive in an industry which arguably can be difficult to establish yourself. I don’t believe that gender is a barrier to climbing the career ladder in construction; hard work and determination is what determines success.

What has been your proudest achievement?

I have been lucky enough to receive numerous awards over the years, however receiving the Leadership in Sustainable Development Award was a high point early in my career gaining recognition from industry professionals. The invitation to sit on the Environment Leadership team for NI and the establishing of the Sustainability Professional Forum for NI are achievements I am extremely proud of. However, developing my team and seeing their success and progression in their own role is by far the most rewarding aspect of my job and my biggest achievement to date.

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank for your success?

My Managing Director is by far the main driver for my team’s success within the Henry Group due to his support and shared vision for the Sustainable Agenda and push for the very highest quality construction. I would also mention my previous manager who gave me the freedom to excel in my career; he encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and to continually challenge myself which in turn helped me to grow in confidence. He taught me how positivity and encouragement will bring out the best in people and his mentoring style is one which I have adopted to manage my own team.

What has been the best advice you’ve been given?

The best advice I have ever been given would be “You must start at the bottom; walk before you can run; but work hard and one day you will reap the rewards”. This is the advice given to my younger self. I now share this advice and encourage the next generation to take the time to learn their trade, as experience is by far the best tool for any job.

Would you recommend a career in construction to young women?

Women have an important role to play in the built environment; our communication skills and high levels of emotional intelligence make women great leaders.

There are certainly fantastic opportunities for young females in the built environment industry from trades to management positions right through to the boardroom and I would certainly encourage any young women looking for a dynamic, fast paced, exciting industry to choose a career in construction.

Altogether Stronger

Construction is a career like no other We have a great team of people working in all areas of our company

Join Our Team Bring your skills and use them in the Construction Industry Submit your CV to careers@henrybrothers.co.uk | Quote Reference SP19 Check out our website at www.henrybrothers.co.uk

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digest

|29

GRAHAM reaches financial close on £130m University of York accommodation project

GRAHAM has reached financial close on a £130m contract to deliver a major 1,480-bed student accommodation project for the University of York. Graham is also an investor as part of a consortium with Equitix – a fund manager of core infrastructure assets.

The scheme forms a key part of the University’s ambitious ‘Campus Masterplan’ – a framework for how it

will develop its ‘campus of the future’.

An intensive consultation and engagement process, involving a broad spectrum of stakeholders, ensured that the “exciting and sustainable” designs were given the green light by the University and planners.

Construction for the project, which has been designed by architects Sheppard Robson, will be completed for the 2022 academic year.

The design embraces Modern Methods of Construction bringing enhanced quality and delivery confidence. Elements include prefabricated sandwich panels, integrating

external brick finish, insultation, windows, first fix services and finished internal walls.

The scheme will act as a stimulus for the University of York’s student recruitment strategy while meeting the accommodation demands of an expanding global student body.

The new facilities will offer students an exceptional level of quality accommodation that will undoubtedly help the University and the City of York continue to reduce reliance on city centre accommodation and housing. The designs are exciting, sustainable and will help transform the

student experience at the University.

Neil McFarlane, Strategic Projects Director at GRAHAM said: “This is an exciting step forward for the University of York’s ambitious plans to deliver a new kind of campus for its academic community. We have considerable experience of working in the higher education sector and we will draw on this knowledge to deliver high-quality accommodation for the student body.

“We’re proud to be associated with such a talented project team who are as excited as we are to get started and bring the university’s vision to life.”

Northern Ireland’s Priority Capital Projects Falling Short of Delivery Targets Major, high-priority capital projects are not meeting their cost and timescale targets, and a change of approach is needed. That is among the key findings in a report on “Major Capital Projects” published

by Northern Ireland’s Comptroller and Auditor General, Kieran Donnelly.

Mr Donnelly’s report provides a high level overview of the Northern Ireland public sector major capital projects portfolio and departmental progress in delivering eleven projects.

These include the seven flagship infrastructure projects identified by the NI Executive in 2015 as its highest priority projects.

budget estimates. Departments attributed this to a range of common issues: funding constraints, legal challenges, planning issues, and a lack of interest from the construction industry.

Three of the projects covered in the report have encountered significant problems:

Of the seven flagship projects examined, none have been delivered in line with both original time and

The A5 project is currently expected to be delivered 10 years later than originally planned following various

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legal challenges; The Critical Care Centre is now expected to be completed (and occupied) eight years later than originally planned following various construction problems; and The Ulster University, Greater Belfast Development now needs to attract substantial additional external finance to bridge a major funding gap.

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Hays | 31

Challenges and opportunities on the horizon for construction sector in 2020

By Mark Wade, Hays NI The construction sector is starting the new year, like many other industries, with high hopes that we might see greater political and economic certainty in 2020 than we did last year.

While messages coming from the industry have been somewhat mixed throughout the last year, it’s clear there are still plenty of projects being greenlit and this continues to be reflected in the employment trends we are seeing at Hays.

Compared with this time last year, we have seen a 12% increase in the number of construction-related jobs registered with us in Northern Ireland, while our annual salary survey showed an average 2.1% increase in salaries for the sector, above the average for all industries. Both numbers are a strong indication that the battle for talent is very much still underway and employers are having to consistently review remuneration to keep the people they need to deliver contracts.

Many of Northern Ireland’s most successful contractors have diversified by sector and/or location and so they will start the new year with a positive outlook and strong order book, which should ensure the employment market remains resolute in coming months. However, if these employers continue to thrive, as we hope they will, investment in the diminishing skills base will undoubtedly be a key theme for 2020.

It is a topic we’ve been working closely with many of the Institutes and Industry bodies on, including the Royal Society of Ulster Architects, Institution of Civil Engineers, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Chartered Institute of Building and the Federation of Master Builders. Throughout the past year we have endeavoured to engage with the institutes to make sure our focus, messaging and working practices are in line with the agendas they are trying to drive among their members to help the industry improve and evolve.

Another well-documented pressure for the industry in recent times has been the grinding to a halt of major NI public-funded capital works and infrastructure investment due to the absence of a functioning Executive and Ministers to provide the necessary approvals. While nobody in the sector is banking on it, the business community is united in its view that the return of Stormont is

not only necessary, it is imperative if the economy is to avoid going into reverse or being stuck in low growth mode for the foreseeable future.

For some people working in the industry, the IR35 legislation which came into force in April 2017 for the public sector will become more relevant as it makes its way into the private sector. The reforms passed the responsibility of determining the tax status of all personal service company interim workers – freelance contractors - to the hiring organisation, including potential liability for tax and national insurance contributions. The legislation will be extended to the private sector from April 2020 for large and medium-sized organisations, which means a number of Northern Ireland companies will need to be prepared for changes to the way they manage their workforce.

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Another challenge in workforce management and one in which the industry still has some distance to travel, is diversity and inclusion. It must be acknowledged that progress has been made to try to address this, but there are still low numbers of women coming into the industry and it hasn’t yet adequately changed attitudes to recruiting from marginalised groups, particularly those related to sexuality, age, disability or ethnicity.

As well as being the right thing to do, compelling business reasons do exist for construction companies to widen their recruitment net – not least the skills problem caused by fewer young people joining and staying in the industry.

The rapid advancement of and investment in technology is resulting in digital transformation throughout the sector that means the construction worker of tomorrow will need

different skills to the ones needed today and is as likely to be operating a robotically controlled piece of equipment as to be mixing cement and putting up scaffolding.

We expect the speed of technological change to continue to accelerate in 2020 and Northern Ireland’s companies will have to invest in their systems and the skills in their workforce order to compete with the best in the UK, Ireland and beyond.

To continue to attract talent to the sector and make sure that talent is able to update their skills in line with changes, the industry will have to be more open and welcoming, with potential entrants able to see positive role models at all levels of the career ladder and to have ready access to information about the sort of jobs they do. It will be interesting to see what progress is made in 2020.

digest

32

Tobermore Paving Used for RIBA Stirling Prize Winning Project – Goldsmith Street An eco-friendly council estate in Norwich has won this year’s prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize for Architecture.

This is the first time that a social housing scheme has won the prize.

Award-winning Landscape Architects BBUK Studio selected Tobermore paving to create streets, pathways and communal areas.

Harriet Bourne Director at BBUK Landscape Architects commented; ‘’We are delighted with our specification of Tobermore’s paving for the hard-landscaping at Goldsmith Street. Their eco-friendly credentials made them the perfect choice for this innovative project.’ ’ The architects took inspiration from Victorian terraced houses, with streets created instead of apartment blocks.

To encourage a community spirit, the back gardens of the central terraces share a secure play area for children

and a walkway for communal gatherings runs through the middle of the estate.

Tobermore Owner/Managing Director David Henderson said; Tobermore would like to congratulate Mikhail Riches Architects, Norwich City Council and BBUK Studio and for Goldsmith Street.

Tobermore are incredibly proud to have been chosen as the paving supplier for this groundbreaking project.’ ’

Visit www.tobermore.co.uk for more information.

Tobermore Launch New Retaining Wall Brochure

Tobermore continue to set standards with the launch of their official new Retaining Wall Guide.

Created with engineers, architects, housebuilders and contractors in mind, the all-encompassing brochure details Tobermore’s award-winning Secura Retaining Wall System, including extensive technical information and

access to an interactive online tool to obtain technical design drawings for your project.

The brochure also includes photography of a wide range schemes to suit all project needs.

Technical excellence lies at the core of Tobermore’s segmental retaining wall system. Secura is designed to prevent sloping site issues as well as

creating a more efficient use of land.

Additionally, Secura retaining walls are a cost-effective solution as they are mortar-free and promise a fast and easy installation process.

Tobermore’s Managing Director, David Henderson, has expressed his delight at the launch of the new guide, ’Our continual investment in people and new technology is securing Tobermore’s excellence for both

quality and service. The new Secura Wall Brochure reflects these values perfectly – it is simply quality like no other’ To secure your copy of this valuable resource please view of access a copy https://www.tobermore.co.uk/ professional/secura-retainingwalls/

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|33

digest

BRAIDWATER WINS A PLACE ON LEAGUE TABLE OF THE UK’S FASTEST-GROWING PRIVATE COMPANIES Leading housebuilder the Braidwater Group, which ranks at No 55 nationally, is the only Northern Ireland headquartered company to feature in 23rd annual Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 league table, compared to four last year.

Set up by managing director Joe McGinnis and his father Patrick McGinnis, it has secured three rounds of investment from growth-capital firm BGF to help it build more homes across Northern Ireland.

Over the past three years sales have grown an average of 58% a year, reaching £34.9m in 2019, and further consolidation in 2020 will see revenues rise to in excess of £40m+.

The Braidwater Group appears with businesses from around Britain, including fitness clothing retailer Gymshark, beauty products retailer Revolution Beauty, and brewer BrewDog. Located in Eglinton and

with operations throughout Northern Ireland, the Braidwater Group has over 40 years’ experience in the industry. The company currently has eight ‘live’ developments with close to 1,000 private and social homes in construction throughout Northern Ireland, and over the next three years a pipeline of over 2,000 homes.

Joe McGinnis, managing director of the Braidwater Group said: ‘’To feature in the Fast Track 100 is an acknowledgement of the hard work and commitment from all involved at the Braidwater Group. Alongside our reputation and integrity, our performance and the success of our business is down to our staff, suppliers and sub-contractors, so I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their effort and contribution. “‘Over the next few years the Group’s growth plans will focus on the greater Belfast metropolitan area and we intend to build a high quality commercial team specifically in the area of contract management.”

(R-L) Joe McGinnis, managing director of the Braidwater Group, and his father Patrick McGinnis.

Councils ‘tap’ into GRAHAM Legionella control expertise GRAHAM has secured two major compliance services contracts with Derry City and Strabane District Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council respectively.

The Derry City and Strabane District Council award for the provision of Legionella Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), Legionella Risk Assessments (LRAs), associated remedial actions and sampling works is the third consecutive contract and covers a three-year term.

GRAHAM will deliver the services across 120 council properties, consisting of leisure facilities, landmark listed buildings, community centres, office space and public conveniences.

The leading facilities management contractor will also continue to provide the council with all of its Legionella control related training requirements.

The Ards and North Down Borough Council contract, covering a period of one-year with a possible two-year extension, is a new partnership that requires GRAHAM to manage and monitor Legionella across 85 council buildings.

Commenting on the latest contract awards, Martin Gillespie, GRAHAM Operations Director, said: “These high-profile contracts strengthen our water hygiene portfolio in Northern Ireland and reflect our growing reputation for delivering best in class compliance services. We are already servicing Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and the addition of two further contracts with major councils is testament to the expertise that we offer.

“It’s particularly pleasing to have been awarded a third consecutive term with Derry City and Strabane District Council, which demonstrates the consistently high standards of service that our team has been providing. New business with Ards and North Down Borough Council is also a great opportunity for us to put our stamp on Legionella service provision in this significant council area.”

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Martin Gillespie, GRAHAM Operations Director

34 |

digest

Construction industry takes first steps at improving product information A survey report launched recently is expected to lay the foundations for reform to the way construction product information is provided by manufacturers and communicated to those that use it. Insights from the survey will help form recommendations for manufacturers to improve the consistency and clarity of product marketing information a key issue highlighted in the Hackitt Review following the Grenfell Tower Fire.

The need for a comprehensive regime that ensures all construction products are properly labelled and marketed was one of many recommendations in the Hackitt Review, which made suggestions to improve building regulations and fire safety in the built environment. The survey responds directly to these recommendations.

The Construction Product Information Survey, carried out for the Construction Products Association

by NBS explores how product information is presented and made available to the entire construction supply chain. It represents the views of 524 construction industry professionals who use product and performance data as part of their jobs, including manufacturers, merchants, architects, engineers, surveyors,

contractors, local authorities and FM providers.

The survey reveals the current difficulties of accessing the relevant information required to assess the performance of a product and make informed decisions. Amongst its findings include a preference for the digital provision of product information as well as a desire for standardised and more complete information, including highlighting applications where the product may or may not be suitable for use.

It also makes clear that there is strong industry support for the introduction of competence levels for those specifying, installing or maintaining products and the systems they make up, as well as an industry code of

conduct for manufacturers to ensure that product information has been properly verified before publication.

Commenting on the report, CPA’s interim Chief Executive, Peter Caplehorn, said: “The importance of this survey will not be lost to those working in construction postGrenfell. It was spearheaded by the CPA’s Marketing Integrity Group – a group of marketing professionals within the manufacturing industry – and represents a proactive and collaborative industry drive to improve the performance of construction products. I have no doubt it will prove a useful contribution as the industry embraces new regulatory reforms in the coming years.”

McAVOY MAKES NEW Architects bring playfulness to the heart BOARD APPOINTMENT of Titanic Quarter Martin O’Neill as Contracts Director,

L-R: Joan McCoy, RSUA President; Chris McComb, JP Corry with winners of the RSUA JP Corry Early Career Design Competition Hannah Wilson, Matthew Kernan and Eunan Deeney)

The Dungannon-based McAvoy Group, one of the leading offsite construction specialists in the UK and Ireland, has expanded its Board with the appointment of Martin O’Neill as Contracts Director, further strengthening its management team.

With 25 years’ experience in construction and civil engineering, Martin brings a wide range of project delivery experience to his new role.

He will take responsibility for delivering offsite projects to the highest quality standards whilst meeting McAvoy’s stringent health and

safety requirements on every site. He will collaborate at the initial design and procurement stages of a project and will lead site operations to handover and post-completion. He will work closely with the Group’s business development, commercial and manufacturing teams, giving clients the benefit of a fully seamless approach.

A member of the Institution of Engineers Ireland, Martin was previously Regional Director for Scotland and Northern England at Farrans Construction where he was responsible for around £100m of projects each year. He managed a full team of construction professionals, focusing on delivery of every project on budget, on programme and to the required quality and specification.

The Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) and JP Corry have partnered with Titanic Foundation to develop and deliver “Sound Yard”, a new temporary play area on the Maritime Mile.

This project envisions an exciting recreation experience using sound to evoke Belfast’s maritime history and integrating play into the landscape of Belfast city centre.

Designed by Hannah Wilson, Matthew Kernan, and Eunan Deeney, this plan was the winner of the 2019 RSUA / JP Corry CityPlay Design Competition aimed at early career architects which challenged entrants to create a distinctive Belfast experience centred around play on the city’s waterfront.

RSUA President, Joan McCoy, said “Design competitions showcase the creative potential of architecture.

Sound Yard is a skilful proposal to enhance the Maritime Mile with playfulness and create a child-friendly place.”

Chris McComb, Specialist Sales Manager at JP Corry, said “The standard of entries continue to rise in this competition.

Congratulations to every applicant and in particular the winning project “Sound Yard” - the quality and talent of our local architects is truly exceptional. Belfast is evolving and the future design of the city is vital.

The CityPlay Design Competition is an excellent way to get young people thinking about the role that architecture plays and what it can do for Northern Ireland. We’re delighted to continue our support of the competition and Architecture Night.”

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Sign up to CIS FREE to get 3 day's full access to our premium system. 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 to on-site stages. *This project listing was generated on 12th December 2019.

Phone:

Banbridge Office: 028 4064 8110 Dublin Office: 00353 (0)1 2999 200

Website:

www.cisireland.com

Email:

sales@cisireland.com

CIVIL AND UTILITIES ProjectID Title 863503 €20m - Ballyshannon Regional Water Supply Scheme Contract No.1 1028963 €135m - National Train Control Centre

Stage

Category

Value

County

Contract Awarded

Civil and Utilities

€20,000,000

Co. Donegal

Tender

Civil and Utilities

€135,000,000

Co. Dublin

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site

Commercial

€30,000,000

Co. Dublin

Stage

Category

Value

County

Contract Awarded

Community and Sport

£8,223,313

Co. Antrim

Tender

Community and Sport

£4,500,000

Co. Londonderry

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site

Education

£7,635,000

Co. Antrim

Tender Contract Awarded

Education Education

£27,500,000 £16,600,000

Co. Antrim Co. Down

Tender

Education

£12,516,936

Co. Antrim

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site

Hospitality

€75,000,000

Co. Dublin

Stage

Category

Value

County

On Site

Industrial

€100,890,773

Co. Kildare

Stage

Category

Value

County

Tender Tender

Medical Medical

€20,000,000 £42,000,000

Co. Limerick Co. Antrim

Tender

Medical

£37,000,000

Co. Antrim

COMMERCIAL ProjectID Title 882208 €30m - Apollo House Redevelopment

COMMUNITY AND SPORT ProjectID Title 1003099 £8.2m - Refurbishment of Auditorium and Bar Areas 1059488 £4.5m - Waterside Shared Village - Contractors

EDUCATION ProjectID Title 1059493 £7.6m - Building, Mechanical and Electrical and Maintenance Services 1016453 £27.5m - New Campus Building 902576 £16.6m - New 600-Pupil School 1056083 £12m - Teaching Facility

HOSPITALITY ProjectID Title 949497 €75m - Conversion to Restaurant/Bar/Hospitality Area

INDUSTRIAL ProjectID Title 908143 €101m - Research Manufacturing Building Extension

MEDICAL ProjectID Title 1021233 €20m - Elderly Care Accommodation 1079815 £42m - Electrical Maintenance Work and Minor Electrical Installation Work 1079814 £37m - Mechanical Plumbing Maintenance Work & Minor Mechanical Plumbing

RESIDENTIAL ProjectID Title

Stage

Category

Value

County

1025535 €28m - Housing Development 1054367 €24m - Housing Development 988034 €123m - Residential Development 994435 £8.5m - Apartment Development, Phase 4

On Site On Site

Residential Residential

€28,945,500 €24,000,000

Co. Dublin Co. Dublin

On Site Contract Awarded

Residential Residential

€123,502,738 £8,585,325

Co. Dublin Co. Antrim

915074 £6m - Housing Development 1078115 £6m - Design and Build Housing 1078116 £5.6m - Design and Build Housing

Contract Awarded Tender

Residential Residential

£6,089,825 £6,000,000

Co. Fermanagh Co. Antrim

Tender

Residential

£5,600,000

Co. Antrim

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Calor CPD Courses Register today

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CEF/SpecifyCEF awards |29

THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY IN NORTHERN IRELAND

News in Brief...

Notice of Promulgation - Wages & Other Benefits, December 2019 The Joint Council for the Building & Civil Engineering Industry (Northern Ireland) decided, in early December, to promulgate changes to wages and other benefits effective from Monday 13 January 2020.

The Promulgation Notice and updated Working Rules Agreement are available for Federation members to view in the Resources section of the Member Dashboard of the CEF website by entering your login details.

2019 Annual Report published

A

fter a busy year working on the industry’s behalf, the Federation has published its Annual Report for 2019.

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:

Dealing with the challenges Delivering the homes that Northern Ireland needs Partnering with our Patrons Recognising industry excellence Supporting the industry

The Annual Report is available to read here: https://www.cefni.co.uk/news/2019-annual-report-published

CSR withdraws Visitor Card

F

rom 29 February 2020 CSR will no longer issue any new or renewal Construction Site Visitor cards.

Visitor cards issued up to this date will continue to be valid for 4 years from the date of the health and safety training.

There are a number of other CSR cards options available: The Health & Safety Trained card is issued on completion of the CSR one day health and safety training course.

This will meet the Buildsafe Initiative requirements for “appropriate health and safety training”. Please note the Health and Safety Trained card is accepted in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland but not in GB. Other options available are the Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) or Academically Qualified Person (AQP) card. Further information on the requirements for these cards are available on our website: https://www.cefni. co.uk/schemes/construction-skills-register/card-types/ professional-cards

The withdrawal of the Construction Site Visitor card is the latest in a series of changes to the Construction Skills Register which have been necessary to ensure CSR complies with the Construction Leadership Council’s “One Industry Logo” initiative.

If you have any question please contact the CSR Scheme Manager Jonathan Caughey JonathanC@cefni.co.uk or 028 9087 7143.

December edition of Construction Matters published In partnership with Federation Patron PKF-FPM Accountants we have published the December edition of Construction Matters.

This edition (available here: http://www.cefni. co.uk/downloads/Construction_Matters_ Issue_3.pdf) covers: Managing conflict in a family business Taxation in relation to gifts at Christmas Are subcontractors really employees?

Should you require any further advice on the above (or on any other tax and accountancy matters) please contact Feargal McCormack on 028 3026 1010 or f.mccormack@pkffpm.com

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Women in construction

Colleen Quinn

Clanmil Housing Group Senior Development Officer, Colleen Quinn works for Clanmil Housing Group, an organisation that provides quality affordable homes for people who need them, either to rent or to buy. Clanmil owns and manages almost 5,300 homes across Northern Ireland and currently has more than 800 new homes under construction.

Did you plan to work in the Construction Industry?

I actually wanted to be a PE teacher!

How did you get where you are today?

My Dad sparked my interest in a career in planning and property development. His was good advice and I haven’t looked back since.

What has been the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome?

I left university during the property

3 Waring St, Belfast BT1 2DX T: 028 9087 6000

housing@clanmil.org.uk clanmil.org be my Director Carol McTaggart, for her mentoring and belief in me. She is an inspiration for any woman thinking about working in construction.

What has been the best advice you’ve been given?

Colleen Quinn Senior Development Officer, Clanmil Housing Group market crash when there were few private sector or government opportunities for graduates. I was extremely lucky to do a placement with the Development Team at Clanmil and 11 years later I’m still here.

What has been your proudest achievement?

I feel immensely proud every time Clanmil hands over a new home to someone who really needs it. We build great homes where people can put down roots and thrive. One of

my proudest moments was when our Northland Road homes in Derry were named best residential development at this year’s RICS awards. It’s nice to see the team’s work celebrated.

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank for your success?

I’m lucky to be part of an amazing team. Their support and comradery is tremendous.

If I had to name one person it would

This quote from a book I’m reading has really stuck with me “There should be no shame in admitting to a mistake; after all, we really are only admitting that we are now wiser than we once were.” It’s so important to keep learning over the course of our careers.

Would you recommend a career in construction to young women?

Definitely. In fact, at Clanmil we recently held a really successful Construction Day event to introduce girls and boys to construction as a career. I also love that we work closely with Women’sTec who provide training for women in construction skills and help them get back into work.

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