Northern Builder Magazine Issue Vol27-No5 2016 by Karen McAvoy Publishing

F CO RE PY E

INSIDE

THIS ISSUE:

leading magazine for Northern Ireland’s building professionals Celebrating Over 25Years The

Vol 27 No 5 2016

The National Football Stadium at Windsor Park is a sporting triumph!

MAIN CONTRACTOR www.ohmg.com

n Construction Excellence Awards n Seamus Heaney HomePlace

One screed to rule them all

Benefits of Rapidur® FE 678 Self Levelling Screed • Foot traffic in 3 hours - ready for tiling in 24 hours • Self-levelling and pumpable – efficient application • Unrivalled performance in combination with underfloor heating • Can be polished to achieve polished concrete / terrazzo finish • Ultra-low shrinkage • Premix, just add water Full specification, technical and site support services Made in Germany | EN ISO 9001 | CE | SFV | TUM | TZW

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Inside this issue... News & Views

Issue 27-5 - SEPT/OCT 2016 78 Ready-to-use mortar from RTU 91-95 Insulation 111-114 Tools and workwear

4 Gilbert-Ash wins hotel contract 6 Paul Marlow wins top UK award 8 National success for H&J Martin 36-37 JP Corry packs a punch! 42 Design contract for Hamilton Architects 46 Call for clarity on apprenticeship levy 65 Haldane Fisher raises money for charity 97 RICS begins search for top projects

21-34 The National Football Stadium at Windsor Park 47-55 Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy 56 Segrave House, Dunany 71-77 The Forthriver Innovation Factory, Belfast

In Focus

Regulars

10-19 Construction Excellence Awards 39 JP Corry opens its 16th branch 57-60 New-look for MacBlair Boucher 66-67 The perfect plaster for Passive 68-69 New addition to Murdock Group

40 CIOB â&#x20AC;&#x201C; pathways to a career in construction 44-45 FMB opens nominations for awards 62 Architectural insight with 2020 Architects 70 Latest project leads

Projects

THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy | Advertising Mairead Reid Managing Editor, Print & Digital Adam Hassin Editorial Diane Day | Editorial Denise Maguire Head Designer Julie Anne Guiney | Design & Digital Jo Wilson Accounts Michelle Owens Photography Gordon McAvoy | Printed by W&G Baird

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: northernbuilder@kmpltd.co.uk www.northernbuilder.co.uk

With reference to the Misdescriptions Act, please note that the measurements and artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impressions within are for illustrative purposes only and may not be accurate. Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

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NEWS

HLMGREENBUILD WINS PASSIVHAUS AWARD FOR TIGH NA CROIT

Sean Moore, Surveying Director at Gilbert-Ash (right) with Paul Thomas, Director of Development, Marriott International (left); and Graeme Johnston, Property Director of Belfast Harbour, announcing the arrival of Marriott in Belfast.

GILBERT-ASH WINS CONTRACT TO BUILD BELFAST HARBOUR’S CITY QUAYS HOTEL Gilbert-Ash has been appointed by Belfast Harbour as the lead contractor for the £22million construction project to build its City Quays Hotel. Marriott International has been selected as the brand for the new four-star hotel on Belfast’s Waterfront. Due to open in early 2018, it is expected to support 180 construction jobs on site. Ray Hutchinson, Managing Director, Gilbert-Ash, said, “City Quays Hotel represents one of the largest contracts that we have worked on in Northern Ireland in recent years.” A string of high-profile contract wins in the UK have provided the momentum for a significant increase in turnover for Gilbert-Ash, which increased by 60% to £117.3million in the year to December 31, 2015,

up from £73.1million a year earlier. Pre-tax profits also showed a modest increase to just over £200,000. In 2015, the company won a number of multimillion-pound national and international contracts, and secured a further contract to fit out the British Embassy in Budapest, signifying the 40th country where it has delivered projects on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Thanks to consistent success with large contracts, Gilbert-Ash was able to create 70 highly-skilled new jobs, bringing its workforce to more than 180. It also expanded its base in London and moved to larger premises in the centre of the city. For more information, telephone 028 9066 4334, e-mail belfast@gilbert-ash.co.uk or visit www.gilbert-ash.com

Sustainability consultant, HLMGreenBuild (which has offices in Belfast), has won the rural category at this year’s UK Passivhaus Trust Awards for its design of Tigh na Croit in the Scottish Highlands. The awards recognise Passivhaus buildings across the UK that are designed to meet the most stringent energy standards in two categories – urban and rural. They also celebrate the progress that has been made in the design of Passivhaus, with the combination of sustainability and visually attractive design. HLMGreenBuild is an association between leading design and architecture company, HLM and GreenBuild Consult providing comprehensive, designled, integrated sustainability consultancy. Tigh na Croit demonstrates that even in remote locations such as parts of Scotland and Ireland, it is possible to build to Passivhaus standards by using locally available skills and materials to achieve energy efficiency. The white-rendered, three-bedroom home achieves an 80% reduction in energy through considered orientation, simple architectural form, crisp detailing, high levels of airtightness and a superinsulated building fabric. For more information, visit www.hlmarchitects.com

CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARDS IRELAND 2017 CIOB has launched the Construction Manager of the Year Awards (CMYA) Ireland 2017. Celebrating excellence of construction management, the awards recognise the ability of managers in the construction industry to deliver projects on time, within budget and to very demanding standards. The competition includes projects in a variety of categories, based on project value, and winners in each category will be announced at the prestigious CMYA Ireland dinner on June 16 in the Conrad Hotel, Dublin. Entries are now being accepted and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, telephone Mandy Coleman on (NI) 00353 1 236 9851 or e-mail mcoleman@ciob.org.uk

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NEWS

MCALEER & RUSHE’S PROJECT MANAGER MAKES HISTORY AS HE BEATS 85 OTHER FINALISTS AT NATIONAL FINAL...

Paul Marlow is crowned UK’s top construction manager

aul Marlow has been named Construction Manager of the Year 2016 for his inspirational leadership on a £29million student accommodation project for client, Unite Students. Competing against some of the most talented construction professionals in the UK, the McAleer & Rushe project manager from County Tyrone beat 85 other finalists and 10 gold medallists to the coveted trophy. Paul has also scored a CMYA first. He is the first overall winner to come from a residential category in the competition’s 38-year history. Despite facing a barrage of logistical and technical challenges, Paul delivered the Angel Lane project in Stratford on time and on budget, and with a ‘wow factor’ that delighted the client. The 759-unit accommodation block has since become a standard setter for Unite’s Homes for Success initiative, and a benchmark against which future projects are measured.

CHALLENGES Paul’s achievement is all the more impressive because of the project’s difficult beginnings. The start date had to be delayed by two months to January 2014 due to late land purchase, but the completion deadline, remained fixed at July 2015 so that Unite could prepare for the first intake of students. Leading Angel Lane from pre-construction phase, Paul radically revised the build strategy to save two months from the programme. A notable time-saving initiative included switching from a post tensioned to a reinforced in-situ concrete frame. Paul also selected a new lightweight cladding system that could be installed by scaffold, mast climbers and cradles, freeing up tower cranes for other activities. Angel Lane faced major constraints: it was bound by a main road, a bridge and a neighbouring building site. The biggest challenge, however, was the proximity of live rail track less than 6m from the completed building. As well as having to undergo an extensive pre-approval process with Network Rail, Paul also had to guarantee 24-hour site access to the operator’s maintenance teams. The provision of utilities also presented significant risks to the programme - as there was no extra capacity in the local electrical

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network, a new supply had to be delivered from 1km away. LEADING BY EXAMPLE Throughout the project, Paul maintained close liaison with a large number of third parties that were critical to successful delivery. He also ran a series of design workshops that were pivotal in ensuring suppliers and subcontractors were smoothly coordinated and integrated with the site team. Paul led by example on health and safety, producing outstanding results - with more than 500,000 man hours worked and 1,836 people inducted onto the project, there was not a single reportable incident or accident on site. Chris Blythe, Chief Executive of CIOB, commented, “This has been another extraordinary year for CMYA. In every category we have seen project managers of all ages delivering exceptional projects, mastering multiple challenges, and achieving world-class quality with exemplary leadership skills. “It’s the first year that we have seen the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) from the conception to completion of many projects. This is an important milestone in the evolution of our industry, indicating the increasing complexity and sophistication of built environment work and the pivotal role that construction managers play within project teams. Congratulations to Paul and all our finalists and medallists. You are helping us take our industry to the next level.”

CONSCIENTIOUS Luke Engmann, Development Manager for Unite Students, said, “Rather than reporting problems, Paul consistently delivered solutions. His foresight and suggestions enabled us to maintain programme and deliver the scheme in time for 2015 occupation. He also led by example on health and safety. The fact that we had zero accidents can be directly attributed to the

Paul Marlow, McAleer & Rushe, is the 2016 Construction Manager of the Year.4

conscientious work from Paul and his team. “The project was very challenging in terms of programme, site logistics and budget, but Paul’s ability to communicate all issues and foster a real sense of teamwork has set the benchmark in terms of stakeholder management and leadership.” Chris Richards, an Honorary Life Member of the CIOB and CMYA consultant, said, “Competition was particularly intense at CMYA this year. An unprecedented number of gold medallists were strong contenders for the top trophy, but Paul’s entry was genuinely outstanding. He delivered a project of immaculate quality at a very rapid pace. Confident, positive and determined he demonstrated complete command of the situation. The judges’ decision was unanimous.” This year’s awards were sponsored by British Gas, Citation, Elecosoft, Glodon, IHS, ITN Productions, Peugeot, Premier BusinessCare and Roomex. To find out more about CMYA, visit the website at www.cmya.co.uk

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NEWS

NATIONAL SUCCESS FOR H&J MARTIN AT RICS GRAND FINAL H&J Martin, part of Lagan Construction Group, have picked up the Building Conservation accolade at this year’s RICS Grand Final in London for their restoration project at Mount Stewart. Located on the banks of Strangford Lough in County Down, Mount Stewart is an 18th Century building with major historical relevance dating back to include housing the World War II war cabinet and residence for Royalty. The prestigious RICS award recognises conservation work carried out by H&J Martin on behalf of the National Trust as part of a three-year refurbishment scheme which involved vital repair and restoration works to protect the unique heritage of Mount Stewart and safeguard its tourist attraction status in Northern Ireland. Judges said the project used “highly innovative” techniques to “repair serious structural defects throughout the property”. The judges were further impressed by the “clear collaboration in pioneering the approach of undertaking the works whilst maintaining the building open to the public with the highly successful outcome of increasing visitor numbers and visitor experience.” Dennis Wright, Senior Project Manager at The National Trust, said, “During

H&J Martin has won the Building Conservation Award at the RICS Grand Final for the Mount Stewart project.

the delivery of the works the standard of workmanship was exemplary. As a company H&J Martin were excellent to work with and we developed a good working relationship based on trust from both sides. I would recommend this contractor and would be delighted to work with them in the future.” The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards showcase the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment across the UK.

Works started on site at Broadbridge Primary School, Eglinton.

TAL WINS EDUCATION CONTRACTS TAL has been awarded two school contracts at Broadbridge Primary School in Eglinton and St Louis Grammar School in Ballymena, valued at £5.1million. The company will deliver a new £2.8million creative and expressive art facility at St Louis Grammar School by undertaking the refurbishment of the listed former convent building and constructing a two-storey extension. The £2.3million contract at

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Broadbridge Primary School will provide a new 10-class base extension and new sports hall facility. Moya Fitzpatrick, Bid Manager at TAL, said, “We are delighted to have secured these education sector contracts which are core to our plans to grow the firm by developing our portfolio in different sectors.” For more information, telephone 028 9262 2345 e-mail construct@ tal.ltd.uk or visit www.tal.ltd.uk

CITB NI TRAINING INITIATIVES CITB NI has launched a number of new training initiatives and grant funding. These include a £1.3million Grant Scheme offering direct grants to registered employers for support in a wide range of training and qualifications for their employees working in Northern Ireland. CITB’s Mobile Training Unit (MTU) provides training on site to all registered in-scope employers. The unit travels across Northern Ireland delivering short duration health and safety courses such as confined spaces, excavations, manual handling and working at heights. CITB’s scaffolding training facility is the only one of its kind in NI and is approved to deliver the Construction Industry Scaffolding Record Scheme (CISRS), enabling participants to achieve an industry recognised scaffolder’s card. An Undergraduate Development Programme for construction and built environment students currently on their placement year is also on offer. CITB NI has also recently launched VET360, an innovative new tool that provides a unique and memorable immersive experience which gives the user instant access to construction sites in a workplace environment. For further information, visit www.citbni.org.uk

GRAHAM CONSTRUCTION CELEBRATES SAFETY MILESTONE AT BIOMASS TERMINAL

GRAHAM Construction is celebrating after recording one million man hours free of any RIDDOR notifiable incidents while building the biomass terminal at the Port of Liverpool for its client, Peel Ports. RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) requires employers to report to the relevant authority any work related accidents and incidents of a certain nature. Paul Scott, Contracts Director, GRAHAM Construction, said, “We firmly believe that good safety statistics are a result of diligent planning, effective supervision and management, trusted supply chain partners and a trained and competent workforce.” For more information, telephone 028 9268 9500, e-mail info@graham.co.uk or visit www.graham.co.uk

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Martin Lennon (left) and Nick Oldfield (right) celebrate O’Hare & McGovern’s success in winning the Overall Award for the IFA National Stadium project along with David Henry, CEF President.

O’HARE & McGOVERN TAKES THE TOP PRIZE FOR THE COMPANY’S WORK AT THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK…

Sporting triumph at the Construction Excellence Awards F or the second year in a row, Newrybased construction company O’Hare & McGovern has won the Overall Award at the Construction Excellence Awards. The awards’ gala evening, held at the Culloden Hotel & Spa, saw the firm win this accolade for its work on the IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park – just two days before the redeveloped stadium was officially opened. Hosted by the Construction Employers

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Federation (CEF), the awards also recognised an additional 14 category winners from across the construction industry in Northern Ireland for excellence in general construction, housing, infrastructure and quality performance. Congratulating the overall winners, CEF Managing Director, John Armstrong, said, “O’Hare & McGovern’s work in delivering the wonderful stadium is an excellent example of how our local construction

industry is pivotal to the development of so many important projects across a wide range of sectors in Northern Ireland each year. “Winning the ‘Overall Award’ for a second year in a row is a significant achievement and it speaks volumes for the relationship that O’Hare & McGovern consistently have with clients, sub-contractors and other construction professionals in terms of delivering high quality infrastructure”.

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CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Winners... OVERALL AWARD O’Hare & McGovern - IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park

GENERAL CONSTRUCTION ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE IN PARTNERING AWARD Fox Building & Engineering - Valley Park, Newtownabbey GB & ROI CONSTRUCTION AWARD Tracey Brothers - Eolas Building at NUI Maynooth COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION AWARD O’Hare & McGovern - IFA National Football Stadium FIT-OUT AWARD Woodvale Construction Company - Stranmillis Refectory RESTORATION AWARD QMAC Construction - St Patrick’s Church, Donaghmore

John Armstrong, CEF Managing Director.

John also commended each of the 14 category award winners for their success against what he described as a “time of significant sustainability challenge” for the construction industry in Northern Ireland. “Beyond any doubt, the construction industry and the wider business community in Northern Ireland are presently facing a time of immense challenge and uncertainty. While the realities of the situation that confront us still, in the immediate sense, pale in comparison to those of the 2008/09 recession and its aftermath, there is a clear risk that the current lack of investor and investment confidence could quickly reverse any of the

modest growth our sector has seen in the past three years and have a significantly detrimental effect on industry sustainability. “Let us not doubt that, in these challenging times, there still lies significant opportunity. Enhancing Northern Ireland’s competitiveness and attractiveness as a region to do business and invest in, remains our ultimate goal. The finalists at this year’s awards continue to innovate and strive towards that goal, and we are delighted to celebrate their achievements again.” Now in their 17th year, the Construction Excellence Awards continue to go from strength to strength, with this year seeing a record number of over 110 entries across all 14 categories.

SOCIAL/COMMUNITY CONSTRUCTION AWARD QMAC Construction - The Junction

HOUSING PRIVATE HOUSING AWARD Carr Brothers - Bannview Court Retirement Village SOCIAL HOUSING AWARD Donaghmore Construction - Ballymisert Supported Housing

INFRASTRUCTURE HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD O’Hare & McGovern - Ballymena Health & Care Centre EDUCATION INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD Tracey Brothers - Dromore Central Primary School TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD John Graham Construction - A2 Shore Road, Carrickfergus UTILITIES INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD Lagan Construction Group - Castor Bay to Belfast Strategic Trunk Main QUALITY PERFRORMANCE ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY Adman Civil Projects HEALTH & SAFETY Flynn TRAINING Flynn

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The team from O’Hare & McGovern celebrate the company’s hat-trick of success, including the Overall Award, Judges’ Commendation Award and successes in the Commercial Construction and Healthcare Infrastructure categories.

Overall Award - Commercial Construction Award Health Infrastructure Award Winner: O’Hare & McGovern NEWRY-BASED BUILDING CONTRACTOR RETAINS THE OVERALL AWARD FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW FOR THE COMPANY’S WORK AT THE NEW HOME OF NATIONAL FOOTBALL IN NORTHERN IRELAND…

O’Hare & McGovern scores a hat-trick!

’Hare & McGovern scored a hattrick of awards by again claiming the top prize at the Construction Excellence Awards. Last year it was the company’s highly innovative build at the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine at Queen’s University that took the top prize and the Newry-based contractor followed this up by taking the coveted Overall Award for the IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. The company’s work on redeveloping the home of national football in

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Northern Ireland also won the Commercial Construction Award while O’Hare & McGovern rounded off a great night by winning the Health Infrastructure Award for the Ballymena Health & Care Centre project - which also received a Judges’ Special Commendation Award such was the difficulty in separating this project from the overall winner. Fittingly, the official opening of the new National Stadium at Windsor Park took place in front of an 18,000 capacity crowd just two days after O’Hare & McGovern won the Overall Award.

In addition to delivering an increased capacity, the project involved the design, development and construction of stadium, with the provision of three new stands (the South, East and West) with associated demolition, temporary works and refurbishment works to the existing North stand. The various stands incorporate new facility changing, training, hospitality, media, comfort, office, and storage facilities. The work also included associated safety and accessibility ground improvements, turnstiles, site works, external lighting, a new pitch with under-pitch heating and

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CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Martin Lennon (left) and Nick Oldfield (right) celebrate O’Hare & McGovern’s success in winning the Overall Award for the IFA National Stadium project along with David Henry, CEF President.

drainage. The complexity of the work was added to by the fact that the new stadium had to be designed and constructed to meet UEFA stadium category 4 standards while all this work was carried out while the stadium remained fully operational, with both Irish League and European Championship Qualifiers taking place. O’Hare & McGovern was also successful in the Health Infrastructure category, winning the top award for the Ballymena Health and Care Centre. At Northern Ireland’s largest health and care centre the company had to find the

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The team from O’Hare & McGovern celebrate winning the Judges’ Special Commendation Award and the Health Infrastructure Award for the Ballymena Health & Care Centre.

right balance between meeting the project’s medical requirements while delivering a hotel-like finish. Located on the north side of the Braid Valley Hospital site, the £25million facility has an eye catching aesthetic that demonstrates the modern outlook for projects of this type that is a far cry away from the cold, clinical atmosphere of old-fashioned hospitals. In addition to these two award success, the company was also shortlisted in the Education Infrastructure category for the state-of-the-art SERC Space Campus in Bangor.

The success of the IFA National Stadium at Windsor Park and the Ballymena Health and Care Centre along with SERC Space Campus demonstrates the wide-ranging expertise of O’Hare & McGovern.

T: 028 3026 4662 E: carnbanehouse@ohmg.com www.ohmg.com

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Aidan Flynn, Managing Director, Flynn, (centre) receiving the Training Award from David Henry, CEF President, and Barry Nielson, CITB NI.

Declan Kearney, SHEQ Manager, Flynn, receiving the Health & Safety Award from David Henry, CEF President

Health and Safety Award and Training Award Winner: Flynn COMMITMENT TO STAFF DEVELOPMENT IS HIGHLIGHTED WITH TWO AWARDS IN THE QUALITY PERFORMANCE CATEGORY...

Double success for Flynn

lynn once again proved its dedication to improving staff skills with a double success in the Quality Performance category of the Construction Excellence Awards. The company was shortlisted in four categories and came out on top in two sections - winning both the Health & Safety Award and the Training Award. As one of the leading providers of maintenance, construction and civil engineering services in Ireland, the company was also shortlisted in the Social/Community Construction category for its work on the Waterfront Hall refurbishment and in the Education Infrastructure category for the St Joseph’s Carnacaville project. This is the second time in the last three years that Flynn has won the Training Award and the overall success in the Quality Performance category is another demonstration of the company’s commitment to staff development.

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The company won Career Inspiration Award at the Irish News Awards earlier this year while apprentice Aaron Keenan won three accolades at Belfast Met Apprenticeship and Training Awards. The judges at the Irish News Awards stated that the company’s entry was head and shoulders above the competition and recognised the long term commitment within the business to offer opportunity to young people, support and develop their capabilities and offer a sustainable path for progression. Flynn prides itself on the quality of the service delivered and the professionalism of the people working for the company and this is evident in the continuing level of excellence delivered over the last 30 years. Over the last three decades Flynn has shown its commitment to training, placement and apprenticeship places to consistently exceed Government requirements. The company is supported by a three year

“The company is supported by a three year Invest NI-backed training and development programme that offers support to every member of staff across the business.” Invest NI-backed training and development programme that offers support to every member of staff across the business and this is further enhanced by Flynn’s membership of the 5% Club that is focused on creating momentum behind the recruitment of apprentices and graduates into the workforce.

T: 028 90303800 E: info@mauriceflynn.com www.mauriceflynn.com

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CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Paul Timlin, Tracey Brothers, (centre) is presented with the Education Infrastructure Award by David Henry, CEF President, (left) and Ann McGregor of NI Chamber of Commerce.

Paddy Kerrin and Peter Daly of Tracey Brothers (centre) are presented with the GB and ROI Construction Award by David Henry, CEF President, (left) and Oliver McAllister of sponsors, PwC.

GB and ROI Construction Award - Education Infrastructure Award Winner: Tracey Brothers TWO VERY DIFFERENT EDUCATION PROJECTS DELIVER THE SAME LEVEL OF SUCCESS…

Grade A performance from Tracey Brothers

racey Brothers proved the company is top of the class with two awards for education projects. In a double success, the company won the GB and ROI Construction Award for the Eolas Building at NUI Maynooth and the Education Infrastructure Award for Dromore Central Primary School. The iconic €20.6million Eolas building is located in Maynooth University’s North Campus and supported more than 300 jobs during its two years of construction. It is clad in bespoke perforated metal filigree cladding. The perforations are based on an abstract Binary pattern and of ‘punch cards’ used in 20th Century data processing, reflecting the research and teachings within. On this project, Tracey Brothers fostered a collaborative approach, with its supply chain, client and design team, engaging fully to focus on exceeding client expectations to deliver a high quality, complex and highly serviced building. This interaction enhanced Tracey Brothers’ knowledge of the client’s

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needs, ensuring the most appropriate details, products, systems were installed. Buildability was enhanced by Tracey Brothers reviewing designs in advance and team members being openly encouraged to suggest how to enhance the buildability whilst respecting the original design intent and other trades. This resulted in a high standard finish, which the client and designers monitored and expressed their delight and immense satisfaction with at handover. President Philip Nolan stated “how happy each and every occupant is with the design and execution” and paid tribute to the architects, professional team and contractor. Demonstrating the company’s versatility within the education centre is the work on from Dromore Central Primary School. The £8.5million project involved the replacement of the original Dromore Central Primary School with a new 25-classroom school constructed on a brownfield site in a densely populated area with many redevelopment issues, including ground

contamination from its former use as a builder’s storage yard, a designated water course bisecting the site and poor ground conditions. The school is designed to give a strong statement about the vision, connectivity, culture and its end purpose. In addition to the new classrooms, the school includes two special needs rooms as well as grass and hard play outdoor areas. All have been finished to offer a bright and modern school environment that offers pupils and staff access to the latest technology. The new school facility provides Dromore Central Primary School with extended play space, extended car parking and an assembly hall twice the size of the previous facility with Tracey Brothers delivering a complex, highly serviced new school on a landscaped site that bears no resemblance to its challenging origins. T: 028 6632 3471 E: mail@traceybros.com www.traceybros.com

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Paul Carr, Carr Brothers, (left) is presented with the Private Housing Award by David Henry, CEF President (centre) and David Little, NHBC.

Donaghmore Construction Ltd’s Managing Director, Mark Currie, (centre) receiving the Social Housing Award from David Henry, CEF President, and Fiona McCandless, Department for Infrastructure.

Private Housing Award Winner: Carr Brothers Ltd

Social Housing Award Winner: Donaghmore Construction Ltd

Carr Brothers recognised for retirement village

Social success for Donaghmore Construction

he stunning Bannview Retirement Village by Carr Brothers Ltd has picked up this year’s Private Housing Award. Located in an idyllic semi-rural setting on the periphery of Banbridge, the cleverly designed development makes the most of its superb surroundings. In fact, all 14 homes had to be constructed in just 11 months due to the high level of demand! The craftsmanship displayed by Carr Brothers is clearly evident within each of the two and three-bedroom bungalows and chalet bungalows that have been custom designed for the over 55s. The internal design and layout of each house type has been carefully planned to offer practical living without compromising on style. In addition to the high standard of finish in each home, the Newry company took a holistic approach to this project. Each home in the quiet cul-de-sac overlooks the village green which is now a shared community space for all the residents. The feeling of community spirit is also evident within the purpose-built community pavilion that is perfect for an array of social activities while there is also a community garden.

purpose-built social housing project that supports people with mental health needs has won this year’s Social Housing Award. Donaghmore Construction was recognised by the judges for the company’s superb work on the Ballymisert Supported Housing project at Holywood Road, Belfast, winning the Social Housing Award for the second year in a row. It was constructed for people who require support to manage their mental health and comprises 18 self-contained units and a 4-bedroom shared house. The Triangle Housing scheme is managed in partnership with the Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health (NIAMH). The scheme was designed and delivered with residents at the very heart of every decision This collaborative endeavour has resulted in a state-of-the-art facility which has been revered as a phenomenal success by Triangle, NIAMH and the families and friends of residents.

now resident there.”

T: 028 4175 2880 E: info@carrbrothers.net

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T: 028 8774 6235 E: info@donaghmoreconstruction.com www.donaghmoreconstruction.com

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CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS

David Henry, CEF President, (left) and Dr Andrew Murray, CEO of sponsors, Transport NI, presents Stephen McFaul, Projects Manager, GRAHAM Construction (Civils) with the Transport Infrastructure Award.

Adrian McCrory, Director, Adman Civil Projects (centre) receives the award for Quality Performance Environmental Sustainability from CEF President, David Henry (left), and David Small of award sponsor, NIEA.

Transport Infrastructure Award Construction Excellence Award Winner: GRAHAM Winner: Adman Civil Projects Construction

GRAHAM Construction on Recognition for Adman’s the road to success environmental outlook

ts work on the £50million A2 Shore Road Greenisland dual carriageway has earned GRAHAM Construction a well-deserved win at the CEF Awards in the Transport Infrastructure category. The company commenced works on the scheme in March 2013 and the new dual carriageway became fully operational in September 2015. The A2 is a vital link in the strategic road network between Belfast and Carrickfergus, carrying on average around 35,000 vehicles each day, and the construction of the new dual carriageway represented a significant investment in Northern Ireland’s road network. It also resolved the problem of a major bottleneck for peak-time traffic travelling between Belfast and Carrickfergus, with drivers now benefiting from reduced journey times. In addition to delivering the scheme on time and within budget, GRAHAM Construction exceeded the requirements of the social clauses in the contract for engaging young people and long term unemployed.

T: 028 9268 9500 - E: info@graham.co.uk www.graham.co.uk

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dman Civil Projects has again been successful at the Construction Excellence Awards, this time winning the Environmental Sustainability Award. Established in 2007, Adman is a specialist civil engineering company servicing a wide range of sectors, including electrical infrastructure, utilities and renewable energy. Regardless of what sector the company is working in, it strives to achieve the high standards that have been reflective of the company from the outset, and this is very evident in the company’s approach to environmental sustainability. On each project, Adman puts in place an environmental plan that continually evolves throughout the project. This is supported by the input from senior management and the site teams as well as input from external sources such as the designers, ecologists and other relevant parties. Adman can ensure that the environmental plan remains an integral consideration from conception through to completion.

T: 028 8224 2166 E: mail@adman-ltd.com www.adman-ltd.com

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Robert Ewing , Woodvale Construction Company is presented with the Fit-out Award by CEF President, David Henry (left) and Jim Addy, JLT (right).

Sean McGlinchey, Lagan Construction Group, (centre) is presented with the Utilities Infrastructure Award from David Henry, CEF President, (left) and Bill Gowdy of NI Water.

Fit-out Award Winner: Woodvale Construction Company

Utilities Infrastructure Award Winner: Lagan Construction Group

Well-earned win by Woodvale

Water performance from Lagan Construction Group!

oodvale Construction Company has won the Fit-Out Award for its work at Stranmillis College Refectory building, which was carried out in two phases. The project involved the transformation of a dark basement area into a light, bright bar, café and recreation area for students and visitors at Stranmillis College. The enabling phase involved the creation of a new laundry facility and new storage area in locations across the campus to allow decant of the basement area. Woodvale then opened up the basement through internal demolition, removing internal walls and installing large beams to allow the removal of internal columns. The high-quality internal fit-out included a new bar and back bar, performance area, seating and dining areas, new café lounge and meeting area separated by a timber screen. New toilets were provided, and a new lift was installed to serve all floors of the existing refectory building, opening access to all regardless of mobility. Installation of the lift involved creating new landings at each level to link in with the existing floors.

T: 028 8224 2622 – E: info@woodvaleconstruction.co.uk www.woodvaleconstruction.co.uk

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agan Construction Group has won the Utilities Infrastructure Construction Excellence Award for its work at the £14million Castor Bay-Belfast water pipeline. This major water pipeline project was completed for Northern Ireland Water as part of an essential package of work which will improve the security of the water supply infrastructure for customers in Belfast and the wider Lisburn area. A complex and demanding project, it entailed laying over 29km of pipeline from Castor Bay Water Treatment Works in Craigavon to south Lisburn, and included five major trenchless crossings at Lagan Canal, River Lagan, Belfast-Dublin Railway, M1 Motorway and A1 Carriageway. Works also detailed the construction of two new water pumping stations at Sprucefield and St Andrews, which will have the joint capacity to deliver up to 48.5megalitres of water per day to customers, as well as the re-commissioning of several local service reservoirs. The investment will provide a vital source of water coming into Belfast.

T: 028 9045 5531 www.laganconstructiongroup.com

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CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Eoghan Ó Cuireáin, Site Engineer at Fox Building & Engineering (centre), is presented with the Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award by David Henry, CEF President, (left) and Stewart Heaney of sponsors, CPD.

Celebrating QMAC Construction’s success are Dominic Donnelly (QMAC), Fintan McAliskey (STEP), Peter Quinn (QMAC), Jude Jackson (QMAC), Rhona Quinn (QMAC), Eddie O’Neill (QMAC), Sean Mullen (QMAC), Michael McCaughey (MJ McCaughey Ltd Quantity Surveyors), Martin Nugent (McKeown & Shields) and Alistair Beckett (Hall, Black, Douglas Architects).

Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award Winner: Fox Building & Engineering

Restoration Award & Social/ Community Construction Award Winner: QMAC Construction Ltd

Recognition for Fox Building & Engineering

Double awards success for QMAC

ox Building & Engineering has been recognised for the integral role the company played in the CEEQUAL Whole Team project to create V36 at the Valley Park, Newtownabbey, winning the Achieving Excellence in Partnership Award for its collaborative approach to this imaginative facility. Fox’s strong partnership and collaborative approach - from client, end users and the design and construct team right through to the supply chain - ensured the successful delivery of this open-air shared space project. This state-of-the-art shared space is home to a Gulliver’s Travels themed adventure play area, a civic linear park and a floodlit 3G pitch for football, rugby and Gaelic sports. Designed to encourage people from all backgrounds to come together through sport, recreation and arts-based activities, V36 is an inspiring, high quality shared space, a long way from the previously contested waste space that it once was. Extensive coordination of the varied and complex project elements was required throughout this tight 10 -month project.

T: 028 877 67088 E: info@qmacconstruction.com www.qmacconstruction.com

T: 028 8076 1944

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MAC Construction scored a double success by winning the Restoration Award for its work at St Patrick’s Church, Donaghmore, and the Social/Community Construction Award for The Junction in Dungannon. Heavily dedicated to the restoration and preservation of many of Northern Ireland’s historical and heritage buildings, QMAC is recognised as a market leader in the heritage construction sector. The restoration of St Patrick’s Church was a major project, testing the company’s skills to the limit. As part of the conservation process, the retention of structural elements within the building was a priority, and these required extensive repair and restoration. The Junction, in Dungannon, is an excellent representation of a quality specification and highly serviced community development. A mixed-use three-storey community development, its sharp, industrial-style external facade belies the light and spacious interior of this contemporary project. The building comprises office space and multi-purpose spaces for tenants and community use.

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FALL PROTECTION

PASSIVE FALL PROTECTION BAGS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PROJECTS ACROSS THE UK AND IRELAND FROM CIS LTD…

tay compliant with your legal obligations, your insurance policy stipulations and your company’s positive health and safety culture, with passive fall protection airbags from Concrete Installation Services Ltd. The company has just added to its service offering with this life-saving equipment, providing a complete safety solution for all work at height tasks up to six metres. CIS Ltd air mattress passive fall protection systems consist of modular high-strength PVC units tested to BSI PAS 59. From precast installation and concrete pour, to roof replacement or glass façade installation, the air bags can be configured to suit any site application. “All CIS Ltd operatives have years of experience operating our passive fall protection systems - airbags - giving them the knowledge, ability, training and experience to provide a service which affords all site personnel the reassurance

2020

Fall protection from CIS Ltd that a fully fit-for-purpose fall protection service is in place,” said Niall O’Hanlon, Director of CIS Ltd. “Our operatives are capable of reconfiguring the system, in conjunction with site management, to suit any operational changes which may occur on the day.” With over 25 years’ experience in the construction industry, Niall supplies a range of reliable, quality services, which include concrete cutting, core drilling, specialist demolition and precast installation. These services can be tailored to ensure cost-effective, site-specific packages to suit client requirements, with the same excellent standard of service provided to all clients from self builds to multi-storeys, on projects throughout the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. For more information, telephone 0771 328 7205, e-mail niall@cis-uk.com or visit www.cis-uk.com

FALL PROTECTION WE PROVIDE PASSIVE FALL PROTECTION AIRBAGS FOR PROJECTS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED KINGDOM AND REPUBLIC OF IRELAND. Benefits • Compatible with Construction, commercial and domestic applications • Cost effective • Safe system of work • Legally compliant • Modular system to suit any shape area • Full site set up no site operative involvement required • Increased site safety • The complete safety solution for all work at height tasks up to 6 metres • Quick system setup and removal minimises disruption to access routes and follow on trades Concrete Installation Services Ltd, 36 Shanliss Road, Coalisland, County Tyrone, BT71 5PZ t: 077 1328 7205 e: niall@cis-uk.com www.cis-uk.com

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THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

OVERVIEW

THE RECENT SUCCESS OF THE NORTHERN IRELAND TEAM IS MIRRORED BY A STADIUM TO BE PROUD OF. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW THIS STUNNING NEW HOME OF LOCAL FOOTBALL CAME TOGETHERâ&#x20AC;¦

Teamwork leads to success at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park

Aerial imagery by Gordon McAvoy Photography T: 07841 193866.

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

BUILDING CONTRACTOR

WITH THE TEAM ETHIC OF A CHAMPIONSHIP-WINNING SIDE, O’HARE & MCGOVERN PRODUCES A PERFORMANCE TO BE PROUD OF…

A tactical masterclass by O’Hare & McGovern

ost managers will use the cliché of one game at a time, but for O’Hare & McGovern it was more a case of playing the long game during the redevelopment of the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. The leading building contractor tackled the company’s first stadium project by producing a match-winning performance that highlights the team ethic that is central to every success at O’Hare & McGovern. While the company prides itself on complete preparation, this project placed a greater emphasis on O’Hare & McGovern’s ability to adapt effectively to a series of unforeseen circumstances. In the end, it was a tactical masterclass by the company. Funded by the former Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, the project

involved the design, development and construction of the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, with the provision of three new stands (the South, East and West) alongside associated demolition, temporary works and refurbishment works to the existing North Stand. The various stands incorporate new changing, training, hospitality, media, comfort, office, and storage facilities. In addition to the stands, the work also included associated safety and accessibility ground improvements, turnstiles, site works, external lighting, a new pitch with underpitch heating, and drainage. The new stadium – which has an increased capacity of 18,600 - was designed and constructed to meet UEFA stadium category 4 standards, with the upgrading

of all the existing access and egress points throughout the grounds having to comply with UK Safety at Sports Grounds legislation and guidance, including acoustic improvements. All this was achieved as the stadium remained fully operational, with both Irish League games and European Championship Qualifiers taking place. “Health and safety is always a major priority on every job, but at the National Football Stadium you were effectively inviting the public onto a construction site, so that placed a greater emphasis on this,” explained Nick Oldfield, Contracts Manager at O’Hare & McGovern. “As well as the fans, we also had to consider the welfare of the players and coaching staff. Logistically, it was a major operation but

“The steelwork was highly complex and took a lot of added consideration and time to complete.” 22 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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all our planning paid off.” However, the best preparation didn’t make a difference to some of the unexpected challenges O’Hare & McGovern had to deal with on this project. To begin with, the discovery of asbestos in the South Stand put work on that section of the stadium behind by 16 weeks, with the team having to switch emphasis to the East Stand. When the project finally got back on track, the well-documented issues with the West Stand again forced a rethink of the project and required the demolition of this stand. “We had our fair share of hurdles to clear and, while it was far from ideal, we used our experience to overcome them,” added Nick. “From the outset of the contract there was a strong and positive relationship between Geoff Patterson (IFA), Andy Priest (Edmond Shipway), Mark Haslett (Hamilton Architects) and myself. All four of us met regularly in order to dicsuss the many aspects of the contract and to understand each other’s problems associated with the design and the overall

process of the project. These meetings and the relationships forged within this forum was the key to the success of the project.” As part of the stringent health and safety regime the company used metal detectors on the pitch as an additional precaution. Regular health and safety inspections were carried out throughout the project’s duration, while even the temporary buildings – that included a social club and changing rooms – had to meet strict UEFA and FIFA guidelines. Being the first stadium project carried out by O’Hare & McGovern this proved a steep learning curve. “We pride ourselves on our experience and while many of our skills could be transferred onto this project much of it was very new to us. The steelwork, for example, was highly complex and took a lot of added consideration and time to complete. “However, what we have learned will prove worthwhile in the future, and I would really enjoy the opportunity to work on another stadium project in future.”

While not a football fan, Nick said that he takes personal pride in the National Football Stadium project – as does the company. “It has been an honour and a privilege to work on Northern Ireland football’s national stadium and that is a feeling shared by everyone at O’Hare & McGovern and our supply chain. Like football, this project has been all about teamwork and I think the final result speaks volumes about how everyone pulled together to give local football a stadium to be proud of.”

Project Team Client: Irish Football Association Architect: Hamilton Architects Design and Build Contractor: O’Hare & McGovern Design and Build Architect: Holmes Millar Design and Build C&S and M&E Engineer: AECOM M&E Contractor: William Coates Ltd

O’Hare & McGovern, Carnbane House, Shepherds Way, Carnbane Industrial Estate, Newry, BT35 6EE T: 028 3026 4662 – E: carnbanehouse@ohmg.com www.ohmg.com

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THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

M&E CONTRACTOR WILLIAM COATES LTD SCORES WITH A WORLD-CLASS M&E INSTALLATION AT THE REDEVELOPED WINDSOR PARK IN BELFAST…

Match-winning performance at the new National Stadium

illiam Coates Ltd put in a matchwinning performance as the M&E contractor for the redevelopment of the National Stadium at Windsor Park, Belfast. A prestigious project that has had more than its fair share of media scrutiny, the stunning new National Stadium has become a beacon for local football and also a fitting venue to host Northern Ireland internationals, local showpiece finals and Irish League games. For William Coates Ltd, the sheer scale of the project coupled with a phased handover and the fact that European Qualifiers were still taking place at the stadium all combined to give the team some difficult hurdles to clear throughout the two years on site. “We are really proud to have been involved in

this project, particularly at a time when there is so much focus on the success of Northern Ireland,” said Gary Coleman, Director at William Coates Ltd. “The project is so much in the public eye, that we had a lot of added pressure on us. But I think the results speak for themselves.” Ryan Scott, Director, added, “We have extensive experience of working on largescale projects, but the National Stadium redevelopment was very different and offered a lot of unique challenges. “We take a very proactive approach to our work and we pride ourselves on building strong relationships. Without the partnerships we built up with the main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern; the D&B Architect, Holmes Miller; Client Architect,

Hamilton Architects; and the client IFA, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve such a high standard of finish.” While each stand offered a slightly different challenge, one of the unique aspects of the project was that the new stadium had to meet UEFA Stadium Category 4 standards. The work included the complete redevelopment of three stands, an upgrade to a fourth stand and additional works around the grounds, including in public areas and the car park. Gary added “The M&E installation was delivered to the highest standards in line with the client and UEFA requirements. Match days were also stressful as we had to bring in a temporary floodlighting system that had to comply with very specific LUX

“The electrical installation was delivered to the highest standards in line with the client and UEFA requirements.” 24 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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Complete solutions... The M&E services delivered by William Coates Ltd included: ELECTRICAL • High-voltage systems – 1HV switchboard, 1-1500kVA & 1-800kVA transformer • 6 low-voltage switchboards • Floodlighting to 1400 LUX vertical illuminance • General and emergency lighting – self-test system and invertor fittings • General power • External lighting • Fire alarm systems • Intruder alarm systems • CCTV systems • Door access systems • Communication systems • Control systems • Building management systems • Inspection and testing • Event intercom system • Ref call system • Disabled refuge system

levels to meet the requirements of the TV companies, and all this while we were also operating from a temporary power supply through generators. “Phasing the work around the needs of the Northern Ireland team and also Linfield was a project in itself, but it is all down to effective communication.” Ryan added, “Our experience in largescale projects really made a difference in this regard and helped us deliver a worldclass stadium. “It not only takes the experience of players and supporters to a new level but we also have delivered state-of-the-art corporate and media facilities that will enhance Northern Ireland’s place in world football.”

In addition, William Coates Ltd exceeded the company’s socio-economic requirements for the project. In total, eight electrical apprentices were employed, one of whom - David Spiers - was named as the ECA Apprentice of the Year for Northern Ireland. An added aspect of the project’s success were the impressive health and safety statistics. Ryan explained, “At the height of the project, we had over 150 operatives working on site, with no reportable accidents or incidents recorded throughout the duration of the project. “On such a complex project, this was achieved by excellent planning and ensuring that a proactive approach to health and safety was adopted by all our employees and our supply chain partners.”

PLUMBING • Fully modulating boilers • High-efficiency pumps and boosters with AUTOADAPT technology • Pressurisation units to alert high/ low pressure situations and maintain system pressure • AHUs • General and fire-rated extract systems • Building Management System (BMS) • DHW plate heat exchangers and stainless steel buffer vessels • DHWR thermal balancing valves • Automatic water isolation systems • Trace heating systems • Rainwater harvesting systems • High pressure gas and water mains • Fire hydrant ring main installation. • Dry riser fire-fighting installation • Gas detection and pressure proving systems • Ice baths capable of achieving 4°C • Cold rooms • Full sanitary ware installation

William Coates Ltd, 37 Mallusk Road, Newtownabbey T: (NI) Tel: 028 9034 2560 or (RoI) 048 9034 2560 - E: info@williamcoates.com www.williamcoates.com

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THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

CONSULTING ENGINEERS

A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH, THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY AND LOCAL AND GLOBAL EXPERTISE COME TOGETHER TO CREATE A FANTASTIC NEW VENUE…

It’s all in the detail… S uccess in the Euro 2016 finals was a transformative moment for Northern Ireland football. Now, with the opening of the redeveloped IFA National Football Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast the side has a world-class 18,600-seater stadium that matches this ambition. This landmark project will help to further boost the local economy, making a positive contribution to Belfast’s fastchanging urban landscape. Drawing on extensive global experience, AECOM, a leading provider of professional services including architecture, engineering, consulting and project management, has helped to bring this project to life.

AECOM’s shared knowledge and global experience means it can deliver major events and sports facilities as real catalysts for change in forward-looking cities. Spectators and athletes demand the best facilities, and the trend in stadia design is to give fans the perfect match day experience. Venues also need to offer better access, more premium seating and improved hospitality. AECOM looks to create great experiences for fans, athletes, owners and developers and communities and cities. Every project, regardless of scale, is approached with an uncompromising commitment to integrity, safety, budget and timely completion. This is what drives AECOM’s approach and solutions. It is also what makes the industry

so exciting and challenging. The design of Northern Ireland’s National Football Stadium was delivered by a blended team of local civil, structural, mechanical and electrical engineers from AECOM’s 300-strong Belfast office, with specialist input from the firm’s global sports engineering team based in London. Working closely with the team in Belfast on shared 3D models, the London team used BIM technology to carry out specialist superstructure and roof design. Bespoke parametric models were set-up for the complex geometry of the roof and grandstands using Rhinoceros 3D and Grasshopper software. All this was documented and shared with the design team using Autodesk Revit and, later,

“This project required an uncompromising commitment to quality, safety, budget and timely completion.” 26 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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using Tekla for the fabricator models. Despite so many recent improvements in BIM communications technology, regular face-to-face meetings were critical, especially when decisions had to be made quickly. To ensure success, it was important to find the balance between traditional and modern communications. One of the main challenges for the National Football Stadium design was on redeveloping the stadium whilst it was open to the public and games were ongoing. Communication was critical in managing this process. The close relationship AECOM enjoyed with the main and sub-contractors on site, along with client stakeholders, required local knowledge and continuous presence. This was complemented by the expertise of the London team. This combination of local presence and wider experience meant AECOM could be highly responsive to the site team throughout the design and build process. This was evident when dealing with some of the intricate challenges offered by this project.

For example, the design of long span structures, like the roof at Windsor Park, can be highly dependent on the construction methodology and sequencing. However, as the stadium hosted a number of matches during the construction period, the team faced additional phasing and access constraints. Working closely with O’Hare & McGovern and the steelwork sub-contractor, AECOM drew on extensive experience in longspan design to ensure that the delivery and construction methodology were both aligned to the programme and logistics plan. Early involvement in the process, continuity of personnel and clear lines of communication allowed the project team to manage numerous changes to the original concept designs and to meet evolving client expectations, as well as changes to the phasing of the project and more general design co-ordination and value engineering processes. The strong, collaborative relationship between AECOM and O’Hare &

McGovern also made a significant difference. The two companies have been working together for over 15 years and have successfully delivered a number of major education projects, as well as the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. Commenting on the process, AECOM’s Sam McDowell, Project Director, said, “We were able to bring value to the process, not only in providing an efficient design solution, but by using our experience to pre-empt issues and to help the team bring the right people to the table so that architects, engineers and key subcontractors could collectively agree a way forward. “In our experience, when having to build around the constraints of existing structures, it is rare to achieve the feeling of a unified and coherent stadium form. However, Windsor Park has achieved this through the delivery of a strong design concept and through attention to detail in its delivery, creating a fantastic venue and atmosphere for spectators and players alike.”

AECOM, 9th Floor, 2 Clarence Street West, Belfast T: 028 9060 7200 www.aecom.com

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THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

METALWORK SOLUTIONS

SPECIALISTS IN THE FABRICATION AND INSTALLATION OF METALWORK MEET THE STRICT DEADLINES FOR THIS PRESTIGIOUS PROJECT…

Bespoke solutions from A-Met Engineering

-Met Engineering manufactured a wide range of bespoke metalwork solutions at the new National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. The focus of the company’s work was on access to the stadium including barriers, gates and balustrades throughout various sections of the stadium and involved solutions to protect both fans and players/officials. This meant that the company was placed under added pressure, particularly as the stadium remained fully operational with both Irish League games and European Championship Qualifiers taking place throughout the duration of the project. A-Met also faced the challenge of not only installing their product range on time but also ensuring they met various health

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and safety regulations as well as strict UEFA stadium category 4 standards. “We have a lot of experience manufacturing solutions such as this, so that aspect of the project wasn’t a challenge,” explained Tony McCann, Director at A-Met Engineering. “However, with stadium remaining operational for games our challenge was to ensure that we met the very strict deadlines in place. As we were working on access solutions we simply had to meet these deadlines, so that added a lot of pressure to the project. “However, we were able to clear all these obstacles and we’re proud of our involvement in this prestigious project.” The success of the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park is a reflection of the high standards that A-Met engineering

consistently delivers. Operating from a 2,000sqm purpose-built production facility based in Cookstown, A-Met Engineering manufactures metalwork solutions for the construction industry across Ireland and the UK. A-Met Engineering has specific expertise in the fabrication and installation of mild and stainless steel as well as brass and uses the latest technology to ensure high level of quality. While access stairways, balustrades, walkways and decorative metal work form much of the company’s manufacturing output, A-Met Engineering has the skills and resources to fabricate a wide and varied range of bespoke metal products for use throughout the construction and associated industries.

A-Met Engineering, Unit 1 Derryloran Industrial Estate, Sandholes Road, Cookstown, BT80 9LU T: 028 8676 0082 - E: info@ametengineering.com www.ametengineering.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

FIT-OUT

CARELLA LAMINATE SYSTEMS SCORES A HIT AT WINDSOR PARK WITH BESPOKE, HIGHQUALITY SERVICE…

Carella proves a winner at Windsor Park

arella Laminate Systems was pleased to win the prestigious contract to manufacture and supply an extensive range of products throughout the revamped National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. Close liaison at an early stage with the design team from main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern, ensured that Carella was on the ball when it came to manufacturing the quality, bespoke items suitable for the home of the Northern Ireland national football team. These included stylish bar counters and back bars for each of the corporate suites, tastefully finished in cherry veneer and black granite, plus the elegant reception desks and trophy cabinets. Laminate-based products such as toilet cubicles, vanity units and IPS back panels were also subject to the same rigorous design-led approach, and Carella easily managed to combine practicality with the smart, robust design that has become a

trademark of the company. These products were supplied and fitted throughout the redeveloped stadium - in the supporters’ stands, Northern Ireland’s and Linfield’s home and away changing rooms for players and staff, and in corporate areas. Other areas benefitting from the Carella touch were the physio rooms and the panel systems for the ice baths. In addition, Carella manufactured and supplied a wide range of fitted furniture for a variety of other rooms throughout the building, catering for the diverse needs of staff kitchens, first aid rooms and the like, with bespoke items to suit each differing need. The challenge of completing work on the project while the stadium was being used at times for important international football matches was one faced by many of the contractors working at Windsor Park, and Carella was no exception. While benefitting from being able to manufacture products

at its Eglinton factory, the company still faced the task of fitting and installing the items, working around this timetable while still getting the job completed on schedule. Good planning, experience and expertise all played an important role in the Carella team’s ability to achieve a smooth and successful outcome. Fitted furniture, receptions and washroom systems from Carella are designed and manufactured to meet the ever increasing demands of today’s performance requirements. The company continues to be at the forefront in the design, manufacture and installation of high-specification custombuilt furniture. To ensure that construction programmes are met, manufacturing has been developed through close consultation with clients and architects, using CAD facilities and investment in new machinery, coordinating fabrication and installation, together with regular site visits and communication with contractors.

Carella Laminate Systems Ltd, 11 Campsie Business Park, McLean Road, Eglinton, Co Londonderry, BT47 3XX T: 028 7181 0330 – E: info@carella.com www.carella.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

DOOR HARDWARE AND AUTOMATION

THE COMPANY’S ABILITY TO MEET A WIDE RANGE OF DOOR HARDWARE AND AUTOMATION DEMANDS TICKS ALL THE BOXES AT THE NEW HOME OF FOOTBALL IN NORTHERN IRELAND…

KCC versatility is the key to meeting stringent control strategy

CC Architectural had the pleasure of being involved in the supply of door hardware and the supply and installation of door automation and electrical locking at the redevelopment of the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. Although specified at pre-tender stage with Hamilton Architects, work then began to develop a specification that best suited this state-of-the-art UEFA Category 4, 18,600 seated stadium. Working very closely with O’Hare & McGovern’s design manager, architect and the stadium director, KCC quickly identified the required ironmongery needs and requirements of this prestigious project. In particular, getting the correct specification was paramount for the fire strategy.

Nowadays, stadiums have crowd safety as their first design prerequisite but also maintaining a fully functional and efficient operation plan for the client. KCC supplied all the Satin stainless steel door furniture from the company’s Focus range alongside safety return-to-door lever handles, mortice locks, 600mm pull handles, push plates, door protection and all the mandatory door signage. KCC supplied Geze overhead door closers with guide rails, complete with screw-fix Satin stainless steel covers. Exidor panic hardware was supplied to all fire escape routes with the use of Keylex mechanical digital locks to allow for the free movement of staff. This was complemented with the design and supply of a very complex grand master key system that is controlled by the

IFA to allow for the smooth running of all the stadium’s operations on a day-to-day basis. The stadium is home to many end users, but, for obvious security reasons, key control was very important to the client. All internal and external doors, including suited padlocks to the perimeter gates, were incorporated into the overall design of the suiting. Finally, KCC supplied and installed Geze automatic operators to all major entrance doors on the new East and South stands, including the new merchandise super stores for the Northern Ireland national team and Linfield Football Club. The automatic operators work in conjunction with the access control strategy for the client.

NI: Unit 20-21a, Harbour Court, Heron Road, Sydenham Business Park, Belfast, BT3 9LE T: 028 9046 9914 – E: salesbelfast@kccarchitectural.com RoI: Unit 1 Westgate Business Park, Ballymount Industrial Estate, Dublin 24 T: 01 456 7421 – E: sales@kccarchitectural.com www.kccarchitecural.com

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CLADDING

DEMANDS FOR A DIVERSE RANGE OF CLADDING AND ROOFING SYSTEMS ARE MET BY AN EXPERT TEAM...

Careful co-ordination is key for Lynco

ynco’s knowledge in the design and building of diverse cladding and roofing systems and how they interface was invaluable to the construction of the new National Football Stadium at Windsor Park.

This, coupled with the experience of previous leisure projects such as Aurora Olympic Pool and the North West Sports Complex, proved crucial to the co-ordination of the project. “On the North West Sports Complex we installed around 7,500sqm of different cladding systems, and this proved good preparation ahead of the National Football Stadium project,” explained Graham Crothers, Commercial Manager at Lynco. Having completed NWSC with main contractor O’Hare & McGovern, the two firms joined forces again at Windsor Park. “We provided a complete cladding solution for the exterior of the stadium, including the roof and walls that met specific design requirements of the project,” added Graham. In order to achieve the complex aesthetic

features required, Lynco carried out the design and installation of specialist cladding systems from APL, Kingspan, Eurobond and Rodeca. “The overall co-ordination was the biggest challenge at the National Football Stadium and we did have to overcome some design issues with the curved aspects of the building. We are proud to have been involved with such a prestigious project and to again be working with O’Hare & McGovern.” The new National Football Stadium at Windsor Park is another reflection of Lynco’s complete architectural envelope solution. This encompasses all aspects of design, procurement and installation of a wide range of diverse building systems, allowing clients’ design intent to be achieved whilst offering value engineering where possible.

Lynco, 2 Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Business Park, Antrim, BT41 4LY E:info@lyncofacades.com www.lyncofacades.com

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THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

DRYLINING AND METSEC FRAMING SYSTEM First-class service from North West Drylining

orth West Drylining Ltd installed the drylining, partitions, ceilings and a Metsec framing system at the new National Stadium at Windsor Park. The Dungiven-based company, is one of the largest drylining companies in Ireland and has been in the construction industry since 1981. The work incorporated the new changing, training, hospitality, media, comfort, office, and storage facilities located throughout the new stadium. The Metsec framing system was installed on the exterior façade of the impressive new building. With huge experience in this competitive market, North West Drylining is more than capable of successfully completing any size

and configuration of project to the client’s total satisfaction. “We specialise in multi-discipline packages including suspended ceilings, drylining and metal partitions,” Anton added. “Having worked with most major housing developers and main contractors, our philosophy is to consistently manage and complete projects to the highest possible standards, ensuring repeat business and excellent working relationships.”

“We specialise in multidiscipline packages including suspended ceilings, drylining and metal partitions.”

North West Drylining Ltd, 288 Foreglen Road, Dungiven, BT47 4PJ T. 028 71338407 – E: info@nwdrylining.co.uk www.nwdrylining.co.uk

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

SEATING SYSTEMS Sleek and comfortable seating from Ferco

ans at the new IFA National Stadium at Windsor Park are enjoying a great level of comfort, thanks to Ferco Seating Systems Ltd. The company has worked on some of the most prestigious sporting stadiums in the world, including the Aquatic Centre for the 2012 Olympic Games in London and the Maracanã Stadium in Brazil for this year’s Olympics as well as Twickenham and Saracens’ Allianz Park in London, Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge, and Leicester City’s King Power Stadium. At the new National Stadium, Ferco supplied and installed over 19,000 seats, which are a clear upgrade from the old wooden seats that were in place in sections of the

stadium. The Ferco FCB-M and ARC range of seating delivers the perfect balance of comfort, durability and aesthetics. All-round robustness is vital - particularly as Northern Ireland have some of the most passionate fans in football. The company was also able to meet the design demands of the project. Ferco supplied a mixture of floor and riser mounted seats to obtain the required layout design, with the seating coming in five different RAL colours, again to meet specific design objectives. This provided an additional challenge, with Ferco having to coordinate deliveries to site from the company’s operation in China, with the correct amount of seating and colours to complete each area of seating in line with the main contractor’s program.

Ferco Seating Systems Ltd, Unit 28, Atcham Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY4 4UG T: 01743 761 244 – E: info@fercoseating.co.uk www.fercoseating.co.uk

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

PROJECT PROFILE

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

SIOPHONIC DRAINAGE

Appliance of science by RWP IRL Ltd

he experience and expertise of RWP IRL Ltd in syphonic drainage played a central role in the company’s involvement in the National Stadium at Windsor Park. As Ireland’s leading company in syphonic drainage, RWP IRL hosted workshops with the design team to ensure the requirements of this system were in place right from the beginning. While syphonic drainage is, in principle, a simple process, in reality it is a complex way of draining water from large scale roofs. “There is a lot of science behind syphonic drainage and that is why it was crucial that we were involved right from the start of the project,” explained Alan Turner, Managing

Director, RWP IRL Ltd. “With the curved stadium roof and such a large scale area we had to create weirs to collect the water before it is effectively sucked into the vortex. Syphonic drainage is a faster, more effective method than traditional systems and is particularly effective on projects of this size.” The success of RWP IRL Ltd’s drainage system at Windsor Park follows the company’s involvement at the Kingspan Stadium. The company is currently involved in a number of high profile projects including the Belfast City Council offices at Adelaide Street, the new film studios in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter and the new Newry Leisure Centre.

RWP IRL Ltd, 8 Windmill Grange, Saintfield, Co Down, BT24 7NX T: 028 9751 1105 - E: solutions@rwp-irl.com www.rwp-irl.com

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

JOINERY

DMS Hanna scores again

MS Hanna has scored on yet another high profile project for O’Hare & McGovern. This 15-year relationship has progressed through a diverse range of projects, and has now netted them a win on the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park. DMS Hanna installed the door sets, including ironmongery, all timber screens, skirting and architrave throughout the project, as well as several temporary works, including the site offices. The company also installed an internal warm roof through the SW Quadrant, plus the tiered base to the conference room. Seamus Hanna, Supervisor on this project, said, “We were delighted to again renew

our partnership with O’Hare & McGovern on this landmark National Football Stadium, and know we can continue to deliver the high standards of quality, which are essential to these projects.” DMS Hanna can provide all First and Second Fix joinery, with roofing and bespoke works across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, and has the expertise to operate in a wide range of sectors, including private and social housing schemes, bar fit-outs and timber frame erection. The National Football Stadium has been a great project to work on and, once again, DMS with the company’s quality and workmanship, was able to complete this fit out with in the specified schedule.

DMS Hanna, Zion 5 Ballykeel Road, Ballymartin, Kilkeel, County Down, BT34 4PL T: 028 4176 2004 – 07802838733 – 07764534577 - 07729456237 - F:028 4176 2004 E: d.m.hanna@hotmail.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 33

PROJECT PROFILE

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER Murdock’s is a real team player!

iterally from start to finish, Murdock Builder’s Merchants proved the perfect team-mate to main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern, on this project. From supplying the hoarding when the site started, to the trim out – such as skirting and architraves - when the site finished, the company ensured that products were delivered on time. Murdock’s convenient Belfast branch locations were key to maintaining these delivery times, both to the main contractor and to the number of subcontractors working on the project, to which a wide range of products were supplied directly. Aidy McAteer, Sales Representative

for the Civils & Architectural Division, explained, “We worked closely with the buyer and also the foreman on site to ensure they received the products they wanted exactly when they needed them. The program of works changed quite a bit throughout the project but we reacted each time to meet the various demands placed on us. Murdock’s philosophy is to look at the site as a whole and not just the main contractor. We look to provide for ALL the different trades and I think this project more than demonstrated this. It was a pleasure to be involved in such a prestigious development and we want to congratulate O’Hare & McGovern on their work and how the job has finished.”

Murdock Builders Merchants, Rampart Road, Greenbank Industrial Estate, Newry, BT34 2QU T: 028 3026 7626 - www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com BRANCHES AT: Banbridge • Belfast (Castlereagh) • Belfast (Duncrue) • Belfast (Kennedy Way) • Derry • Dublin (Balbriggan) • Dublin (Ballymount) • Dungannon • Enniskillen • Lisburn • Newry • Newtownards

THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL STADIUM AT WINDSOR PARK

DOOR SUPPLIER

JP Corry opens the door to quality

P Corry supplied high specification doors for use across the redeveloped National Stadium at Windsor Park. With the new home of local football in close vicinity to the Springfield Road branch, it proved the perfect choice for main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern, to turn to. Neil McGeown, Springfield Road Branch Manager, explained, “This is a flagship project not only for Belfast but for Northern Ireland, and we are very proud to have played our part in its success. “In addition to the high specification doors that were sourced from our own supplier, CW Fields, we also supplied a wide range of general items to this project.” With 16 branches throughout Northern

Ireland, JP Corry prides itself on supplying everything from core building essentials right through to the latest product innovations. A strong reputation for high quality products and service has enabled the company to develop successfully into one of Northern Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants. The company recently opened its 16th branch in the heart of Andersonstown and, along with it, increased its service in Belfast.

“JP Corry prides itself on supplying everything from core building essentials right through to the latest product innovations.”

JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - F: 028 9023 2123 Visit www.jpcorry.com to find your nearest branch

34 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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MERCHANT NEWS

EXCLUSIVE Q&A EVENT SEES CUSTOMERS GET THE CHANCE MEET AND GREET THE TWO-WEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION WHILE RAISING OVER £4,000 FOR CHARITY.

JP Corry packs a punch with champion Frampton!

ustomer of leading builders’ merchant, JP Corry, were treated to an exclusive evening with boxing champion Carl ‘The Jackal’ Frampton recently. Held at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast, over 170 customers from across Northern Ireland enjoyed the Meet and Greet followed by a dinner and Q&A session with the twoweight world chamption. BBC legend Jackie Fullerton was the MC

for the evening and he kept proceedings moving along as customers questioned The Jackal on a range of topics, including his bruising encounter with Leo Santa Cruz that saw him win the WBA featherweight title. The event also helped raise over £4,000 for the Alzheimer’s Reasearch UK charity through a raffle and auction that included memorabilia signed by Carl Frampton. For more information on JP Corry, visit www.jpcorry.com

JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - F: 028 9023 2123 Visit www.jpcorry.com to find your nearest branch

36 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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MERCHANT NEWS

JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - F: 028 9023 2123 Visit www.jpcorry.com to find your nearest branch

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 37

MERCHANT NEWS

JP Corry opens new branch in Andersonstown BUILDERS’ MERCHANT OPENS THE COMPANY’S 16TH BRANCH AND ALONG WITH IT OFFERS CUSTOMERS IN BELFAST GREATER ACCESS TO AN IMPRESSIVE PRODUCT RANGE…

ocal building supplier JP Corry has opened its 16th branch in the heart of Andersonstown. The expansion represents significant investment by the company with six new jobs created, including a branch manager, yard operatives, admin support and sales assistants. The new store strengthens JP Corry`s product offering for their existing customers whilst the strong focus on DIY brings convenience to consumers. The branch will be stocked with a wide range of DIY and building products and customers will benefit from its seven-day-a-week access and evening opening hours, as well as a local delivery service. Branch Manager, Conor Mallon, is from the Anderstowntown area and takes on the new role after a decade being the company’s sales representative for Belfast. He feels that this the new branch has found the perfect balance between attracting both trade customers and the general public. “We are attracting customers from right across the greater Andersonstown area and, with our flagship branch a

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few miles away, we are able to service the entire West Belfast area. “The new location is easily accessible, so we can serve the neighbouring area’s DIY needs as well as those of our trade customers. That is the beauty of this new branch and, in the short time we have been open, we have had a real mix of both trade and DIY customers. “We have developed the branch to offer some slightly different products that are more attractive to the general public and the new-look signage clearly is more retail-friendly. However, our trade customers can be assured that we have a great range of products in stock to meet their needs.” That was emphasised recently with breakfast mornings to celebrate the launch that included a number of suppliers on hand to speak directly to customers. JP Corry has been supplying quality building materials for over 200 years and, as a generalist builders` merchant, the company supplies everything the customer needs for their building, renovation or DIY project, from the foundations to the finishing products. For more information visit www.jpcorry.com

Sean McErlean, Jonny Finlay, Francis Creaney and Francis Goodall who recently abseiled down the Europa Hotel in aid of the MS Society NI.

Staff go over the top for charity Four staff members from JP Corry’s Springfield Road branch have gone to great heights to raise money for charity. Sean McErlean, Jonny Finlay, Francis Creaney and Francis Goodall recently took part in the ‘Over The Top’ challenge at the Europa Hotel, abseiling down the side of the Belfast landmark in aid of the MS Society NI.

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CIOB NEWS

NM MATHERS, COMMITTEE MEMBER, CIOB IN IRELAND – NORTHERN CENTRE – EXPLAINS SOME OF THE ROUTES OPEN TO THOSE WANTING TO DEVELOP THEIR SKILLS...

Pathways to a career in construction

hen the letters after my name were noticed by a work colleague, I was described as a ‘badge collector’, but I soon pointed out that these acronyms - MRICS, FCIOB and MAPM - were gained through Continued Professional Development (CPD) over a period of 25 years, starting when I was just 16 years of age. In 1985, the UK and Ireland was in the grips of a deep recession, with job opportunities at a premium and it was then that I was offered the role of Junior Quantity Surveyor in a private practice. The job was linked to Government funding and I was required to attend college to study for a BTec ONC. As my career progressed, so did my qualifications, and I achieved a BTec HNC/ HND and later the CIOB’s DMX, and MCIOB status. After moving to Dublin, I completed the Society of Chartered Surveyors Direct Membership exams and shortly after became a Trainee Surveyor for RICS NI, becoming MRICS a year later. In that same year I became FCIOB and MAPM, and ever since I’ve been studying part time on and off. While my CPD is anecdotal, it brings into focus the pathways in construction for students today.

AFTER GCSES It is unfortunate that the GCSE in Construction that is being piloted in some schools is not followed up with an equivalent A Level. As a result, these students are either taking on non-construction A levels or leaving to attend their local college to complete a HND or related course. This is a missed opportunity. Apprenticeships, however, combine relevant study with ‘on the job’ training. While the study duration is much longer, with some degrees taking up to six years to complete

part-time, the upside of this is that the individual will be working full-time, gaining experience and increasing their skills in the workplace with onsite knowledge augmented by study – and all while earning! Some companies will value that individual’s experience above any qualification, but CPD is a personal thing. It is up to the individual to want to progress and upskill whilst working and, while taking longer to get qualified, this will allow the individual to bring a level of maturity and experience to their part-time courses which can make them easier to navigate and complete. You can still become chartered with various organisations such as the CIOB (www.ciob.org) and the RICS (www.rics.org/uk).

UNIVERSITY OPTION Students must investigate the routes they need to take if they aspire to become Chartered. The RICS require candidates to have a RICS accredited degree. This route to full membership of chartered organisations will be shorter, with the emphasis on full-time study and a placement year within the industry. Students will be more academically aware and possibly better suited to sitting their Chartered interviews/assessment of professional competence. However, practical experience may be limited,

depending on their work placement.

IN-HOUSE TRAINING As a Senior Quantity Surveyor for McMullen Facades, part of the Lakesmere Group, I have access to numerous in-house diplomas and external study opportunities, such as degrees and other courses that allow me to continue my professional development. By completing the internal diplomas to upgrade my managerial skills, I can apply the new skills learned to my work place, using the lessons learned within the diploma to benefit my company. Overall, any individual looking for a career in construction must note the word ‘individual’ and realise that the pathway forward has to be chosen by the person to match their own needs and study methods, and life circumstances.

NM Mathers MRICS FCIOB MAPM, is a Chartered Surveyor, Chartered Construction Manager, and Senior Quantity Surveyor for McMullen Facades, part of the Lakesmere Group. He can be contacted on nmathers@mcmullenfacades.com

For more information on the CIOB, contact Mandy Coleman on T: 00353 1 236 9851 or E: mcoleman@ciob.org.uk www.ciob.org

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NEWS

WIREFOX CELEBRATES CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE FOR NEW HOLYWOOD OFFICE

John Robinson, Director of Services for Methodist College, and architect, Lidia Cabanillas of Hamilton Architects.

HAMILTON ARCHITECTS WINS DESIGN CONTRACT FOR METHODIST COLLEGE SCHOOLHOUSE Hamilton Architects has been awarded a design contract for Methodist College’s schoolhouse building which will undergo refurbishment and development costing around £7million. “Methody is a beloved Belfast landmark and we are delighted to be working on a new design for this distinguished historic building,” said Paul Millar, Partner. “Our challenge is to preserve the external fabric of the schoolhouse and important

internal features, while creating an environment which is fit for modern education purposes. Around 300 students and staff will move temporarily into other school buildings when work begins onsite in September 2017, with construction due for completion in late 2018. For more information, telephone 028 9033 4250, e-mail belfast@ hamiltonarchitects.co.uk or visit www.hamiltonarchitects.co.uk

ESF STREETS AHEAD IN DUBAI’S NEW THEME PARK Environmental Street Furniture (ESF) has supplied themed street furniture to the world’s largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure, which opened in Dubai in August. As a global designer and supplier of themed street furniture, ESF supplied over 150 themed custom benches and 450 themed litter bins.

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Alan Lowry, CEO of ESF, said “This contract is our largest and most prestigious success to date and clearly shows our capabilities in this specialised sector. We hope it will help catapult ESF to the forefront of global theme park supply.” For more information, telephone 0845 606 6095 or visit www. worldofesf.com

Property investment and development firm, Wirefox has turned to tradition to celebrate a milestone in the construction of its new £1.5million, state-of-the-art office at a former derelict site in Holywood. Reviving a popular industry tradition, the firm hosted a topping out ceremony as the final beam was placed atop the new 7,500sqft building in the town’s Downshire Road. Construction work began in June and is expected to be completed in December. The work is being carried out by Roskyle. In keeping with tradition, attendees at the event celebrated the construction milestone with a glass of ale. For more information, visit wirefoxcapital. businesscatalyst.com or www.roskyle.com

TAKE LESS THAN THREE MINUTES TO LEARN CRACK STITCHING BrickFix, from Safeguard Europe, is a simple, quick and cost-effective way to stabilise and repair cracked masonry. And now there’s an equally simple way to learn how to use it – a video which takes viewers through a graphic step-by step installation instructions, in around two-anda-half minutes. The BrickFix System consists of a series of helical austenitic steel bars which are grouted into chasedout mortar beds perpendicular to the line of a crack. Once in place, the repair minimises the likelihood of further cracking with the bar absorbing any localised stress. Along with the steel bars, the BrickFix kits come with a two-part grout, mixing paddle, pointing gun and finger trowel. The helical bars are easily bent which means they can be used to stabilise cracks at the corners of a building or shaped to cope with the irregular masonry of older buildings. View the two-and-a-half minute BrickFix Crack Stitching tutorial at www.brickfix.co.uk or, along with other videos, on Safeguard Europe’s YouTube channel. More technical information is available on the website, www.safeguardeurope.com or by calling Safeguard’s experts.

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FMB – MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2017

Gavin McGuire, FMB NI Director, (right) marks the organisation’s 75th anniversary with Gerry Mullan, SDLP MLA, (left) and Barry Nielsen, Chief Executive, CITB NI.

AS THE FMB CELEBRATES 75 YEARS OF SUCCESS, NORTHERN IRELAND BUILDERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PROVE THEY ARE THE BEST OF THE BEST…

Nominations are now open for the Master Builder Awards 2017

MB members in Northern Ireland are being encouraged to showcase their expertise by entering the Master Builder Awards 2017. The prestigious awards were officially launched at Stormont in September as part of the FMB’s 75th anniversary celebrations, and Gavin McGuire, Director of FMB NI, is confident that Northern Ireland companies can again highlight the expertise that exists in the province. “Our members have already proved they are a Master Builder by joining the FMB, so now we want them to prove they’re the best of the best by entering the Master Builder Awards,” he said. “The high standards of work being delivered by FMB members in Northern Ireland deserve to be highlighted,

and we are looking forward to seeing our regional winners again take on the best from across the UK.” For over 75 years, the Federation of Master Builders has championed continuous improvement in building standards, and for over two decades the Master Builder Awards have highlighted the fantastic work carried out by small and medium-sized builders across the UK. It’s not just pride that’s at stake in the Master Builder Awards! As well as the chance to win a brand-new Vivaro van, courtesy of main sponsor, Vauxhall, you could also benefit from national and local media coverage. Entry to the Master Builder Awards is free and easy. All you have to do is simply

complete the nomination form on the FMB website, upload your photos and ask your client for a supporting statement. You can enter as many projects as you want and you can enter the same project into multiple categories. Once you have submitted your entry, it will be put forward for regional judging, with the Northern Ireland winners being announced at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, on March 31. The regional winners will then go forward to the national finals, and the winners named at a gala event in London next September. For more information on the Master Builder of the Year Award and to download your application pack, visit www.fmb.org.uk

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

FMB – MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2017

Skills’ crisis the subject of Stormont event

The panel for an insightful Q&A (from left) Gerry Mullan, SDLP MLA; Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI; Paul Frew, DUP MLA; and Gavin McGuire, FMB NI Director.

Categories... • New Home - For builders demonstrating a strong commitment to building quality new homes. • Energy Efficiency Project - A Project that demonstrates the best use of energy-efficient measures designed to reduce energy consumption, save on energy bills and minimise the overall impact on the environment. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be provided. • Small Renovation Project – A residential/domestic restoration, refurbishment or extension costing up to £150,000. • Heritage Project - A pre-1919 building which has been renovated, sympathetic to the original style. • Large Renovation Project - Residential/domestic restoration, refurbishment or extension over £150,000. • Commercial Project - New build or refurbishment of a commercial building.

• • • • •

Kitchen or Bathroom Project - A kitchen or bathroom from a new build/ renovation project. Heavenly Builder - This category recognises builders who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to deliver exceptional service. Apprentice of the Year - Presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional practical skills in their chosen trade, as well as those special qualities that make them stand out from the crowd. Building Merchant of the Year - The Builders Merchant Federation will be looking for a builders’ merchant that has most successfully developed and improved its business since January 2016. Lifetime Achievement Award - This award will be presented to a Master Builder who has contributed positively to the building industry, the FMB and/ or their community.

Skills were at the top of the agenda at a special 75th anniversary function held at Stormont, with politicians urged to deliver a long-term plan for the industry. The event contained a Q&A session with a panel that included DUP MLA Paul Frew, who was formerly an electrician; SDLP MLA Gerry Mullan, who was a plasterer; and Barry Nielsen, Chief Executive, CITB NI who previously worked as a draughtsman. Gavin McGuire, FMB NI Director, said, “Ironically, skills shortages were one of the reasons why the FMB was formed in London during the Second World War, so it is interesting that, after 75 years, we are still facing the same issues. “Our panel has all worked within the construction industry, so they understand the issues that our sector is facing. I hope they gained a better insight into why solving the skills crisis is central to the future success of the Northern Ireland construction industry. “FMB members continue to demonstrate excellence and are keen to continue to support training, both of new apprentices and existing staff, but they want to see a clear, long-term plan that will allow them to look ahead with confidence.” The audience heard directly about some of the challenges being faced by companies in Northern Ireland, with the lack of skills preventing some from expanding. Concerns over the impending Apprenticeship Levy were also raised, as well as the view that training is being held back by a disjointed approach. The panel – and the audience – were agreed that a return to the prestige that a construction apprenticeship once enjoyed is central to attracting new talent. Gavin added, “The construction industry offers a credible career path and is one of the few that offers everyone the opportunity to progress, regardless of where they start. “I think the views expressed that the construction industry should be made a priority for the Northern Ireland Executive is one that everyone agrees with. There was also a clear message that politicians need to think beyond their four-year term in office when it comes to creating future strategies. “The debate has given our panellists plenty of food for thought and we very much see this as a starting point for future discussions.”

Federation of Master Builders, Unit 10, Kilbegs Business Centre, Plasketts Close, Antrim, BT41 4LY Tel: 028 9446 0416 www.fmb.org.uk - www.findabuilder.co.uk

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NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 45

INDUSTRY COMMENT

NORTHERN BUILDER SPEAKS TO BARRY NEILSON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, CITB NI, ABOUT THE CONFUSION AND UNCERTAINTY OVER THE IMPENDING APPRENTICESHIP LEVY…

Call for clarity on new apprenticeship levy

here have been calls for the Northern Ireland Assembly to deliver clarity on the Apprenticeship Levy which is being forced on the construction industry. While not against a levy that supports training and skills, Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI, said that the industry needs answers to the many questions that have been raised about this forthcoming change. From April 2017 employers with a payroll of more than £3million will be charged an apprentice levy at a rate of 0.5% of their annual pay bill. In England, plans are in place for a voucher system that would allow levy-paying employers to claim back training costs. The English system is also set to support smaller employers who take on 16-18-year-old apprentices or young care leavers. However, in Northern Ireland, it is unclear how this money raised through the Westminster levy will be distributed in the province and how it will affect areas such as funding for the further and higher education sector, and also for organisations such as CITB NI. “There is just too much confusion at present over the levy,” said Barry. “Training is a devolved matter, but this has been forced on us by Westminster so, personally, I see it as a tax-raising exercise. There are no guarantees over whether or not the money will be ring-fenced for training and how it will be distributed or utilised. “For example, will it be given to the further and higher education sector to replace cuts to funding. If that’s the case, then it isn’t ‘new’ money at all.” Barry added that companies on the margin of the £3million threshold will be forced to make important decisions. “Do you continue to expand and pay the

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levy or will we see an increase in bogus self-employment as a way of getting around exceeding the threshold. If more people are going to be self-employed, then how do they gain access to training without having to pay for it themselves? “This all creates major implications for our future skills development and it is disconcerting that we still have no finer detail about how this will all operate.” Ironically, Barry is fully supportive of a levy that promotes training and skills and feels that if the Northern Ireland Executive provides clarification on the many issues raised, then it could have more industry buy-in. “I just think this system has been pushed through too quickly by politicians in England who want a quick soundbite about the number of apprentices being created,” he explained. “Even that has caused problems as they will be highlighting the number of apprenticeship starts, not completions. “It is a levy that is being collected by Westminster but without a cohesive plan as to how that is going to be spent in Northern Ireland. By calling it an apprenticeship levy, it gives the impression that it is for training but that isn’t clear. “How will it affect contractors based in Northern Ireland but working in Great Britain? Will it be collected monthly? If so, how will contractors be able to properly plan for this? Will levy-paying companies to the CITB NI have to pay, in effect, twice?

“We’ve had no consultation in Northern Ireland about how the levy will work. In fact, there has been no consultation on the introduction of the levy at all. “There are just too many questions and what we need are answers. This is being introduced in little more than six months, so we need clarification sooner rather than later.” One of the most frustrating aspects of the apprenticeship levy is that it comes at a time when the construction industry is engaged with the Department for the Economy about an improved system for apprenticeships and training in Northern Ireland. “We know improvements need to be made and if this levy can play a part in that then I’m all for it,” said Barry. “We have a construction industry to be proud of in Northern Ireland but we need skills and forward planning to sustain it. My concern is that this levy will be more of a hindrance than a help. “We will continue to ask the questions at Stormont and we hope for answers soon.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

INTRODUCTION

NOBEL LAUREATE IS REMEMBERED IN NEW BELLAGHY CENTRE THAT IS A SIGNIFICANT ADDITION TO LOCAL HERITAGE SECTOR… g

Seamus Heaney’s HomePlace

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE | 47

PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

MAIN CONTRACTOR

INSPIRATIONAL BUILDING CELEBRATES THE LIFE AND LITERATURE OF POET, SEAMUS HEANEY…

Latest work is fitting tribute to Bellaghy poet

eamus Heaney HomePlace, a new arts and literary centre celebrating the life and literature of the poet and Nobel Laureate, has opened in Bellaghy to great acclaim. The village of Bellaghy is where Seamus Heaney was born, raised, and where he drew much of the inspiration for his poetry. It is also his final resting place. The work carried out by main contractor, Brendan Loughran & Sons Ltd, is a fitting tribute to the Nobel Laurete. The £4.25million project was developed by Mid Ulster District Council, with part-funding from the former Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure, and the 2,000sqm building is now home to a permanent exhibition, interpreting Seamus Heaney’s work through his connections with people and places. Purpose-built on the site of a former RUC police station, HomePlace is the result of a collaborative approach, led by the team from Brendan Loughran & Sons.

The facility was designed by W&M Given Architects, with the exhibition designed by Tandem Design and installed by Marcon Fit-Out’s specialist heritage/museum team completing the new exhibition. The building design is intended to combine modern architecture with a nod to the site’s historical past, and includes an elevated viewing platform with views across the surrounding countryside – allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the landscape which Seamus Heaney wrote about so often.

EXHIBITION The core feature is a permanent exhibition about the life and literature of Seamus Heaney, arranged over two floors and filled with personal stories and artefacts, dozens of family photographs, video recordings from friends, neighbours, world leaders, cultural figures, and even the voice of the poet himself reading his own words. The exhibition is fully interactive using

the latest touch screen, video and audio technology and includes a recreation of the poet’s Dublin study. In addition to the exhibition, the centre boasts a 189-seat performing arts space, education and learning spaces, a café, shop and an annex for community use. There is also a library containing a substantial selection of books from Seamus Heaney’s home, including biographies, works of fiction and the work of other poets. Translations of Heaney’s work in over 20 languages also feature. All have been donated by the Heaney family. “Working closely with Mid Ulster Council, Marcon Fit-Out, Tandem Design and other stakeholders, we were able to deliver a first-class facility,” said Padraig Quinn, Contracts Manager at Brendan Loughran & Sons Ltd. “Using the latest technology and value engineering principles we take a collaborative approach on all our projects to deliver the best results for our customers.

“Using the latest technology and value engineering principles we take a collaborative approach on all our projects.” 48 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

Over the years, we have built and developed a team of experienced personnel which is recognised for its ability to complete projects to very high standards.” In addition to the main interpretative centre, the work on the Seamus Heaney centre comprised refurbishment and extension to an existing steel clad building to the rear of the site for use as a community youth facility. The main works for the construction of the new HomePlace comprised a portal steel framed building with cavity walls, site insitu concrete floors, suspended precast concrete floors and a combination of external finishes to the walls and roofs to include Rheinzink roof cladding, Trocal roof covering, Monocouche decorative plaster, Cedar board cladding and cementitious board to the façade. Works also included the installation of a passenger lift and all associated mechanical and electrical services to both buildings. All site drainage and site services were included, as well as extensive site works such as coloured block walls, decorative paving flags, rubber safety surfacing, lbex fencing and planting. The exhibition is staged over two floors and contains a recreation of the poet’s attic

study in Dublin. Working with members of the Heaney family and a small, trusted panel of Heaney experts, an engaging, interactive and multisensory exhibition has been developed with a broad appeal, from the school child encountering poetry for the first time to a Heaney aficionado with extensive specialist knowledge.

OPPORTUNITIES The exhibition was enhanced by a carefully curated selection of artefacts and historic photographs and with input from Heaney’s family, friends and the public figures he inspired. ‘Man & Boy’ features opportunities for aural, visual, physical and social interaction and opens up the subject of poetry for all. Creative areas featuring a series of hands-on activities for both young and older visitors, include dress-up, ‘thinking caps’, jigsaws and tile puzzles, kite building, word play games and reflective space. Heaney’s widow, Marie, and children Christopher, Michael, and Catherine were joined by almost 200 guests at an official opening to mark the completion of the building. Poets, literary figures, extended family and friends, many of whom had

travelled specially to be present and prominent politicians were among the attendees. Speaking at the event, Marie said, “I have watched in amazement, with the rest of my family, as it has taken shape – from plans on a computer screen, to a construction site, and into the wonderful space we are standing in this evening.” Christopher added, “It’s so important and right that it’s here. Physically he left (Bellaghy) 55 years ago, but literally, creatively, imaginatively - he never really left.”

Project team… Project: Seamus Heaney HomePlace centre Value: £4.25million Architect: W&M Given Architects Main contractor: Brendan Loughran & Sons Ltd Interpretive Design Consultant: Tandem Design Exhibition fit-out: Marcon Fit-Out

BRENDAN LOUGHRAN & SONS LTD, 134 Termon Road, Carrickmore, Omagh, BT79 9HW T: 028 8076 1313 – F: 028 8076 1013 www.brendanloughran.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

ARCHITECT

ARCHITECT’S VISION DOES POETIC JUSTICE TO NEW SEAMUS HEANEY VISITOR FACILITY…

Inspiring design from W&M Given Architects

ollowing the purchase of the former Bellaghy RUC barracks site by Magherafelt District Council in 2013, W&M Given Architects was instructed to develop a brief for a new community resource facility on the vacant site. “With the sudden passing of Seamus Heaney in August 2013 we were tasked with developing feasibility proposals for a visitor facility to celebrate the life and works of the internationally renowned poet and Nobel laureate,” said Practice Partner, Philip Hutchinson. “This involved sensitive engagement with the Heaney family representatives, former council and then, subsequently, the newly formed Mid Ulster District Council in April 2015. “As an architect, to be presented with the opportunity to design a building for someone as special as Seamus Heaney, is a once in a lifetime honour and privilege. The budget for such a large and prestigious centre was a concern for us from the outset,

and it was important to create a fitting piece of architecture that would also meet the functional requirements of a community and educational facility. The build cost (including all site works) was approximately £1,620/sqm, which shows good value for money considering the brief and the final product.

DESIGN INSPIRATION “We looked to primarily retain and incorporate the existing basalt stone wall into the external finish as far as possible, to symbolically show how a site which was once a fortress in the community was now pealing back the barriers and inviting the community in,” explained Philip. “The design draws on the built heritage of the area, giving the site a direct relationship with the village street front and public open space. The composition of the building forms is a contemporary response to farm settlement clusters

common throughout the south Derry area.” The building is essentially in four parts exhibition, performance space, concourse and education resource areas. A street level entrance takes visitors through a lower ground floor exhibition space and, via the central stair/lift vertical circulation, the journey continues to the upper ground floor exhibition area, cafe, 189-seater Helicon theatre space, library and education/ resource rooms. A glazed cantilever wedgeshaped platform penetrates through the side elevation of the exhibition space at high level to create a viewing area across the countryside which influenced so many of Heaney’s poems. Flexible exhibition space has been incorporated for the display of temporary/ travelling exhibitions to be exhibited. W&M Given offers a broad range of design consultancy services including architecture, principal designer, interiors, landscape, strategic planning and speculative work.

W&M Given Architects, Suite 8, River House, Castle Lane, Coleraine, BT51 3DR T: 028 7035 1111 – E: info@wmgivenarchitects.co.uk www.wmgivenarchitects.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

PRESTRESSED FLOORING

AG PRECAST PROVIDES SOLID FOUNDATION FOR SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE…

Stress-free prestressed flooring from AG

cheson & Glover’s experience and expertise in concrete flooring ensured that its work on the construction of the new Seamus Heaney HomePlace centre ran smoothly and without any hitches. “We supplied 150 and 200mm prestressed hollowcore slabs throughout the building, including the basement,” said Northern Ireland Flooring Manager, Dennis Kelly. “It produces a good solid floor and has great sound proofing qualities, which was very important in this project.” AG’s prestressed flooring is manufactured in depths ranging from 100mm – 500mm and can be designed to meet most project criteria in a wide range of building types. “We don’t approach hollowcore as a commodity product – our team of designers and engineers collaborate closely with customers to ensure that what they get for each project is the best possible, yet most cost-effective, solution,” explained Dennis. “Combined with our proven logistical

abilities, the convenience of hollowcore flooring means that your build can be extremely efficient. Once the floor units are in position and grouted, they provide an immediate working platform for follow-on trades. As propping ls not required in most cases, the area below the floor remains free from congestion – allowing other trades to progress unhindered. Shuttering wet concrete is also virtually eliminated, so the whole process is faster, cost-effective and far more efficient. “We can offer these products on a supplyonly contract – or we can supply expert installation by our own fully qualified teams who will complete the package in a professional, safe and efficient way.”

BUILT-IN QUALITY AG is one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of prestressed hollowcore flooring – and with good reason. With a capacity in excess of 400,000m² of flooring

per annum, AG Precast has the scale and experience to deliver. “We’ve established a formidable reputation within the construction industry for our manufacturing quality and our ability to stay firmly on top of the logistics of every project,” said Dennis. “Our network and infrastructure allow us to deliver product at scale right across the UK, and our extensive investment in state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques means that a premium quality product is a given. The quality finish means that direct decoration using suitable materials is possible in many projects.”

“Combined with our proven logistical abilities, the convenience of hollowcore flooring means that your build can be extremely efficient.”

Head Office – 11 Aghnagar Road, Tullyvannon, Ballygawley, Co Tyrone, BT70 2HW T: 028 8556 8441 – E: precast@acheson-glover.com www.acheson-glover.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

WALL CLADDING Thornton Roofing celebrates anniversary year with another prestigious project

hornton Roofing showcased its field-leading expertise in the new Seamus Heaney HomePlace, by designing, co-ordinating and installing its external elevations using trusted systems and materials. Employing Kingspan Benchmark Swiss Pearl Rainscreen Board in the new building, the company was part of a team which completed its element of the project in a six-week timeframe. Thornton Roofing was commissioned to clad the walls using a 12mm thick multi-coloured board which is now part of the building façade. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the roofing company has marked the period with an expansion of its workforce

and premises, unveiling 50 new jobs plus a growth plan over the next five years. Thornton has already helped shape a number of other iconic buildings across Northern Ireland.These include Belfast’s Waterfront Hall and Bangor’s Aurora Aquatic Centre, with its cutting-edge curved roof. Leading the Thornton team throughout the Seamus Heaney development was Contracts Manager, Paul McErlane, who said the project was completed without a hitch. “To be involved in such an iconic scheme, which will be seen by people from all over the world, has been an honour and a delight for Thornton Roofing,” he concluded.

Thornton Roofing, 43a Gallagh Road, Toomebridge, BT41 3QU T: 028 796 50368 – F: 028 796 50742 –E: info@thorntonroofing.co.uk www.thorntonroofing.com

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

KITCHEN FIT-OUT Expert catering design solutions from Bunzl

unzl CDS (Catering Design Solutions) provided a full kitchen fit-out at the new Seamus Heaney HomePlace centre. This included supplying and fitting canopies, serve-over counters, and front bar fit-out, plus the latest Merrychef E4 combination oven for quick cooking in larger quantities. “We have worked with Mid-Ulster Council before, on the Dungannon Leisure Centre building,” said Robert O’Neill, Business Development Manager at Bunzl CDS. “On the back of this latest project we are expecting to gain some further work with the council, which is great news for our growing business.” Set up five years ago, Bunzl CDS is a division of Bunzl McLaughlin. It offers innovative solutions to the catering,

hospitality and foodservice industries, and its services include consultation and delivering a full design concept to turnkey completion, tailored to suit clients’ needs. “We’re the heavy equipment end of the business,” explained Robert. “We are not just experts in commercial design, we are also specialists in the provision of equipment and furniture, partnering with globally recognised suppliers. We can look after all aspects of work, from build design to completion, and carry out a lot of projects in the hotel and restaurant industry, as well as schools, hospitals and care homes. Bunzl CDS is known all over Ireland and our latest project was a complete turnkey kitchen fit-out at Jackson’s Hotel and Leisure Centre in Ballybofey.”

Bunzl Catering Design Solutions, 72 Cathedral Road, Armagh, BT61 8AG T: 028 3751 1999 - E: bmlmarketing@bunzl.ie www.cateringdesignsolutions.net

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PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE, BELLAGHY

INTERPRETIVE DESIGN CONSULTANT

TANDEM DESIGN PROVIDES FITTING TRIBUTE TO ONE OF IRELAND’S CULTURAL GIANTS, WITH IMAGINATIVE AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING INTERPRETIVE EXPERIENCE…

Tandem in tune with creativity of inspiring poet

andem was tasked by the Mid-Ulster District Council with developing a visionary interpretive experience at the new HomePlace centre, based on Seamus Heaney’s life and work, in the locality where he grew up and from which he drew so much inspiration. “We planned a thematic journey for visitors through different areas of the poet’s life and work, from his family and his experiences growing up, to his global influence and immense achievement in winning the Nobel Prize for Literature,” explained Tandem’s Creative Director, Andrew Todd. Key features include a display of artefacts, atmospheric AV projections, an audio tour featuring the poet reading his own works, plus audio and video recordings from family members, cultural figures and global leaders. Creative areas feature a series of hands-on activities for both young and older visitors, and also include reflective space. “While the work was going on, it

was interesting to watch some of the builders coming into these areas and just sitting down for a moment’s reflection themselves,” said Andrew.

INTERPRETATION AND DELIVERY “This was a wonderful project to be involved in,” continued Andrew. “We’re very used to working on historic castles or the like, and to work in such a different environment as poetry was very much a treat. It is not generally thought of as ‘must go and see’ subject matter and we did a lot of research with experts on how to design a space that people would want to visit. Our aim was to show that poetry is accessible to all, and the response has been fantastic. “One of the key parts of our design was the final Creative zone area, located on a mezzanine which can be seen from the

entrance. Those entering the building can see people relaxing, reading, having fun and being creative themselves - all as the last part of the interpretive journey. It allows people to think about their own creativity and has proved to be a very satisfying aspect to the design for us. “As with all projects, assigning the available budget is critical, so the design and the choice and quality of finish were very important. It was a case of spending money wisely, and Marcon Fit-Out provided a major contribution to this. For example, weight was a problem with the design of the ripple effect on the ceiling of the Imagination and Inspiration space. We went through three versions before finding a solution, and Marcon did a brilliant job on that. Our continued collaboration with this company is a great asset on any project.”

“We planned a thematic journey for visitors through different areas of the poet’s life and work.”

Tandem, Rollo House, 6 High Street, Holywood, Co Down, BT18 9AZ T: 028 9042 5590 – E: hello@tandemdesign.co.uk www.tandemdesign.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

SEAMUS HEANEY HOMEPLACE , BELLAGHY

FIT-OUT CONTRACTOR

Andrew Todd, Director, Tandem and Martin McErlean, Heritage Contracts Manager, Marcon in the new interactive exhibition at Seamus Heaney HomePlace.

THIS AWARD-WINNING FIT-OUT CONTRACTOR HAS AGAIN PROVEN ITS EXPERTISE WITHIN THE MUSEUM AND HERITAGE SECTOR…

Marcon Fit-Out completes the last chapter at Seamus Heaney HomePlace

arcon Fit-Out has once again played a central role in another leading tourist attraction in Northern Ireland after carrying out the intricate fit-out of the new exhibition at Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy. The new visitor centre showcases the life and work of the late poet Seamus Heaney, bringing together an interactive exhibition using the latest audio-visual technology. Marcon Fit-Out is an award-winning fit-out contractor with a specialist joinery workshop operating across a range of industry sectors. The company’s heritage team used these specialist skills to create bespoke elements for the new building for

Mid Ulster District Council. The new exhibition area is a fully immersive experience detailing the life of Seamus Heaney through the years. The new space consists of audio-visual touch screens, interactives, graphics and key artefacts belonging to the famous poet which are on display within stunning showcases. Martin McErlean, Heritage Contracts Manager at Marcon Fit-Out, oversaw this project. He said, “We really enjoyed playing an important role in the opening of Seamus Heaney HomePlace. This culturally significant project will be an important facility for local people and will be a driver

to attract new visitors into the area. “Our heritage team was supported by our specialist joinery workshop which manufactured the many bespoke joinery items within HomePlace. This project further enhances our growing reputation within the museum and heritage sector.” Marcon once again worked very closely with leading interpretive designers, Tandem, to deliver the new centre, demonstrating the company’s innate ability to cohesively bring together the various elements of an interpretive fit-out. While the exhibition is divided into two sections - each on a different floor - they both incorporate interactive elements of

“This project further enhances our growing reputation within the museum and heritage sector.” 54 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

Contract awarded for Belfast’s newest visitor attraction

different types. This may be an audio-visual unit or a design that allows the user to lift or turn a specific part of the exhibit. “We work with a lot of other specialists who incorporate their exhibit within our overall design,” added Martin. “The challenge is co-ordinating these different aspects and to effectively bring them together. “The vast majority of our work takes place in our own joinery workshop but that comes with the added challenge of ensuring that it all comes together perfectly when we arrive on site. But we have an experienced team and we are proud to, once again, see this demonstrated on this project.” Marcon Fit-Out has been responsible for the fit-out of a number of iconic museums and exhibitions over the past number of years, namely Titanic Belfast, Down County Museum, Navan Fort, Carrickfergus Castle, the Guildhall, and the Gobbins Path Visitors Centre. The company recently completed the fit-out of the iconic American Air Museum for Imperial War Museum Duxford in Cambridgeshire. “We are making a real impression in this sector and Seamus Heaney HomePlace is another superb example of this,” concluded Martin.

Marcon’s focus on helping to boost tourism in Northern Ireland hasn’t stopped with the Seamus Heaney HomePlace, with the company securing a major new contract with Belfast City Council to create a new interactive exhibition within the iconic Belfast City Hall. Located in the East Wing of this historic building, the visitor-led exhibition - which opens in Spring 2017 - will become a major visitor attraction for both local people and tourists alike. The exhibition will be spread over 18 rooms Mark O’Connor, Director, Marcon Fit-Out and Sarah and will display the Lyons, Director, Redhead Exhibitions. council’s memorabilia collection and narrate the historical interpretation of the city in an engaging way. Great care has been taken to ensure that the new space is in keeping with the integrity of the building’s design, history and architecture. Marcon will work closely with local interpretive designer, Redhead Exhibitions, which has been working with Belfast City Council to bring their vision to reality. The design will allow visitors to interact with the rich cultural heritage of Belfast and facilitate the effective and efficient flow of people throughout the space which includes the new exhibition, the official guided tour, the stained-glass window collection and the memorial grounds. The heritage team at Marcon will be responsible for the manufacture and installation of all specialist joinery and fitted furniture, feature display cases to house memorabilia and artefacts, luxury woven carpets, exhibition graphics, illuminated signage and the coordination of audio-visual hardware within the new space. The contract also includes the fitting out of a new café. Mark O’Connor, Director, Marcon, commented, “It is encouraging to see the continued investment in our local tourism market as we welcome record numbers of visitors to Northern Ireland. This particular project is another significant contract win for Marcon as we continue to enhance our reputation as a leading fit-out partner for museums and exhibitions across the UK and Ireland. “Our dedicated heritage team is really looking forward to starting work on Belfast’s most recent visitor attraction at Belfast City Hall.” Sarah Lyons, Director, Redhead added, “This is an exciting new development for city centre tourism and one that encourages increased access to Belfast City Hall for local people. We are delighted to be playing such a key role in the project and to provide the plans, layouts and designs that Marcon will now manufacture to.”

Marcon Fit-Out, A2 Fergusons Way, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, BT41 4RB T: 028 9446 1222 – E: hello@marconfitout.com www.marconfitout.com

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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ROOFING AND CLADDING

THE EXPERTS IN FIBRE CEMENT ONCE AGAIN DEMONSTRATE THE VERSATILITY OF THE COMPANY’S PRODUCT RANGE WITH A UNIQUE PROJECT…

Barn brilliance by SVK

he popularity of SVK Neptunus fibre cement sheeting in the agricultural sector has taken a new direction with the recent conversion of a barn into a stunning concert and wedding venue in Co Louth. Segrave House in Dunany is an Americanstyle barn that is proving a popular venue with those wanting something a little bit different. Capable of accommodating up to 400 people, the beautiful and stylish interior is far removed from the functional farm building of its exterior. SVK’s range is based around choice, and this project is the perfect example of this. As one of the largest manufacturers of building materials in Europe and with over a century of manufacturing, supply and technical expertise, the company offers one of the most comprehensive portfolios of fibre cement products on the market. As well as cladding and roofing solutions, the company also offers a market-leading range of corrugated sheets that incorporates the Neptunus range of fibre-cement corrugated sheets used on the Segrave House project. An ideal covering for the roofs of all warehouses, industrial and agricultural buildings, the durable Neptunus range of

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double-pressed corrugated sheets contains carefully selected, high-quality fibres and, in this way, protects the roof against the most extreme weather conditions. As they are produced with specially selected high-quality fibres they also offer a long life span. Only the best raw materials are used to obtain these strong corrugated sheets. The coating is characterised by its high quality and ability to retain colour. This is thanks to an outstanding paint adhesion and decades of SVK experience in paint production.

SUPERIOR Finally, the sheets benefit from the use of several layers of strong fibre cement material to achieve the desired sheet thickness. The sheets are then pressed twice under extreme pressure to guarantee a superior product. The unique second pressing is what makes SVK corrugated sheets so distinctive from other brands, and makes them extremely strong and durable. Dáire Fegan, SVK Sales Manager, explained that the benefits delivered to the agricultural sector by Neptunus fibre cement corrugated sheets made it a clear choice for Segrave House.

“This product range is really popular within the farming community, and as this is, effectively, a farm building it worked perfectly,” he said. “To begin with, it is aesthetically in keeping with the surrounding area, which helped meet planning demands, and it is a product that architects seem to love. “However, Neptunus offers a lot more than good looks. With excellent sound absorption qualities it is also a non-drip product, meaning that condensation cannot build up on the underside of the sheet. Neptunus is also non-combustible, non-rust and has a life expectancy of 50 years – which are all major plus points. “Once again, we have demonstrated the versatility of our product range and how we can work closely with clients to meet the demands of their project.”

For more information, contact Christos Michaelides, SVK Northern Ireland Sales Manager, on 00353 860 238 138, e-mail info@svk.ie or visit the website at www.svk.be

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

COMAPNY PROFILE - MACBLAIR

The new-look MacBlair Boucher branch.

THE LAUNCH OF THE NEW BOUCHER ROAD BRANCH AND WATERSHED SHOWROOM INTRODUCES A BRAND NEW LOOK FOR YOUR LOCAL BUILDERS’ MERCHANT…

Say hello to the brand new MacBlair Boucher

he new-look MacBlair Boucher has opened its doors following a major refurbishment that has transformed the builders’ merchant. The first of the Macnaughton Blair branches to be rebranded as MacBlair, the Boucher branch is bigger and better than before. Incorporating ‘Your Local Builders’ Merchant’ alongside MacBlair Civils, MacBlair Plumbing, MacBlair Hire, and the new Watershed Bathrooms and Tiles showroom, MacBlair Boucher now offers a wider choice and availability of products.

New additions to the shop and trade counter include a Door and Floor display and a power tools demonstration area along with extensive paint and civils ranges. Customers can also benefit from free tea and coffee along with free wifi which will be available in all branches. MacBlair Hire offers an extended range of small plant and tool equipment while the landscaping area includes a new hard landscaping display alongside a wider choice of fencing and decking. The warehouse offers an extended range of

insulation, roofing and plumbing products as well as panel saw and cross cut saw facilities. Alongside extended opening hours (open from 7am), MacBlair Boucher also boasts a new layout, both internally and externally. The yard has a new improved layout that includes jumbo parking spaces for larger vehicles while, in store, customers can enjoy a new, brighter, faster and easy to use facility. Scott McDonald, Branch Manager at MacBlair Boucher, joined the company last August and has endured a baptism of

From the new look store and strengthened product range to staff training, our focus remains on improving our customer’s experience.” 58 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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COMAPNY PROFILE - MACBLAIR

Seventh Watershed Bathrooms and Tiles showroom now open

Customers recently enjoyed a series of breakfast mornings and supplier events to mark the official opening of MacBlair Boucher.

fire. However, he feels the feedback from customers has proved the changes have been worthwhile. “Firstly, we’d like to thank our customers for their patience throughout this process,” he explained. “We were working from two temporary buildings from the start of this year and had a temporary shop area in our warehouse, which meant that we were still able to offer a service. “Our existing building was stripped back to the barebones and reworked so it very much feels like we have a brand new building. This process has allowed us to extend an already impressive product range and adding areas such as the power tools demonstration zone and the floors and doors display have already made a positive impact. “Even the little services like free tea and coffee have been welcomed by our customers who are very much enjoying the new-look branch.” While the store has been designed to

be more welcoming to both trade and DIY customers, it has also provided more dedicated space to display the company’s impressive product range. “Even some of our regular customers have said that they didn’t know that we offered a certain product range until they saw it displayed in store,” explained Scott. “We have a lot more scope to show off just how wide-ranging our product range is.” But while the aesthetic aspect is important, this has been enhanced by staff training. Scott added, “We feel that product knowledge is just as important as having a strong product range. We are working all the time to improve our knowledge right across our range and, in recent weeks, we have had manufacturers in store to train us specifically on their products. “From the new look store and strengthened product range to staff training, our focus remains on improving our customer’s experience.”

The new-look MacBlair Boucher includes the company’s flagship Watershed bathroom and tiles showroom. The recently opened showroom is the seventh Watershed branch in Northern Ireland and it stocks a full range of bathroom settings, from traditional through to contemporary, and also including the increasingly popular wet rooms, the showroom has, at its core, leading brands Utopia, Duravit and Laufen. Heading up the staff at the new Belfast showroom is Amanda McClenaghan as Belfast Showroom Manager, with Alison Brown appointed Showroom Sales Consultant. Both offer design services and are happy to carry out site visits for planning to both trade and retail customers. Lauren Robinson, Group Showroom Manager, said, “We have always wanted to have a showroom in Belfast, so we’re very excited to add this to our extensive offering. “We have designer brands that are exclusive to Watershed in this busy retail and trade area of the city. We also offer a full package of showers, sanitary ware and tiles, including quality ranges like Mira, Vado, Aqualla Brassware and Hansgrohe.” The new 2,500sqft Watershed showroom boasts 25 fully-fitted and tiled bathroom displays.

MacBlair Boucher: 4 Balmoral Road, BT12 6QA. T: 028 9055 1379 - E: boucher@macblair.com OPENING HOURS: Mon-Thurs 7am - 5pm, Fri 7am - 4pm, Sat 8.30am - 2.30pm, Watershed late night Thurs 8pm. www.macblair.com

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COMAPNY PROFILE - MACBLAIR

NEW BASE BOOSTS THE ALREADY STRONG FOUNDATIONS IN PLACE FROM THESE SPECIALIST SERVICES…

Technical expertise and quality products from MacBlair Civils and MacBlair Hire

ew facilities are now in place for the successful MacBlair Civils and MacBlair Hire services at the new MacBlair Boucher branch, allowing customers to benefit from technical expertise and a high quality product range. MacBlair Boucher is one of the company’s four key branches across Northern Ireland offering the hire service, offering everything from small plant and power tools to scaffolding and even plumbing and electrical equipment. MacBlair Hire offers a vast array of branded products, with the company enjoying a strong reputation with small to medium builders and tradesmen across Northern Ireland. This is backed by competitive

pricing and is another reason why customers are attracted to the services of MacBlair Hire with, in particular, the company’s range of power tools – both corded and cordless – proving to be increasingly popular. Catering for the niche market, MacBlair Civils has been delivering a specialist service to customers for over a decade, offering a diverse selection of civils and environmental protection products to the construction sector. The product portfolio from MacBlair Civils covers every aspect of the civil engineering and construction industries and encompasses drainage, access covers, environmental protection, geofabrics, hard landscaping and street furniture – all from market-leading

manufacturers. This includes names such as ACO, Klargester, Wrekin Products, Marshalls, Fosroc, K-Form, Alumasc, Hydro Int, Sika and Saint-Gobain PAM. This impressive range is enhanced by accessibility, not only to the products themselves, but to technical back-up provided by MacBlair Civils. The entire range is available through MacBlair’s strategically located branches across Northern Ireland, providing straightforward, off-the-shelf access to the trade. While this provides convenience, customers also enjoy the added advantage of being able to utilise the technical expertise of the company’s civils team, which is based at MacBlair Boucher.

MacBlair Boucher: 4 Balmoral Road, BT12 6QA. T: 028 9055 1379 - E: boucher@macblair.com HIRE BOUCHER: 028 9055 1382 - CIVILS BOUCHER: 028 9055 1390 www.macblair.com

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NORTHERN BUILDER

Setting the Standard in roofing and waterproofing IKOflash is a modern alternative to Traditional Lead Flashing. IKOflash is a lead-free flashing material which is ideal for use in areas such as chimney and abutment flashings, rooflights and pitched valley linings. It is extremely easy to install and offers a modern alternative in situations where lead flashing would traditionally be used. • • • • •

Lighter - 80% lighter than lead and easier to handle Faster - Rapid installation –up to 50% quicker Flexible - Can be worked and formed in the same way as lead Cost effective - No scrap or resale value therefore less risk of theft Environmentally friendly - IKOflash is non-toxic and recyclable

THIS PRODUCT IS AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL waterproofing@iko-ni.com

BRANCH t. 028 9086 7079

www.iko-ni.com

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ARCHITECTURAL INSIGHT

IN A REGULAR INSIGHT INTO ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN, MICHAEL HOWE, 2020 ARCHITECTS, EXPLORES THE MORE UNUSUAL ARCHITECTURAL MATERIALS BEING USED BY PROGRESSIVE ARCHITECTS…

2020

An exciting evolution in architecture

ust about everything progressive architects are currently using is new to a lot of people. These trends are visible first in the likes of London and New York, and then adopted very quickly by most innovative architects throughout Ireland. We have become accustomed in Northern Ireland to some strange and unusual materials featuring on our houses, creating a visually striking appearance. Glulam structures are hot on trend at the moment, and 2020 was one of the first architects in Ireland to introduce glulams into house design, as seen in our award-winning Ballymagarry House. Here, they were used to create a stunning curved roof. Currently, our design team is using glulam beech beams in an ultra-modern black box extension to a traditional 1970s house. Glulams are basically laminated beams, which act as a natural alternative to steel or concrete, with the added benefit that they can be moulded into beautiful shapes with a striking visual impact. Accoya Timber is also being adopted in many new builds and is something we will be seeing lots more of in the near future. When undergoing a process called acetylation, the timber (sourced in New Zealand) turns into an extremely durable, stable wood with paint-retention qualities. This makes it a brilliant choice to use in cladding, doors and window frames.

CLEVER CAMOUFLAGE Mirrored cladding is another product we are seeing more of, and it can be used to create incredible visual drama. It can reduce the visual impact of a house by camouflaging it into its environment. Or, for a more exciting option, the mirroring can be used to give the appearance of a ‘floating’ home, lifted above its surroundings. In Ireland, a mirrored finish has typically been used to make the building ‘disappear’ into its abundant green natural landscape. Corten also acts as a stunning cladding finish. This weathering steel has a naturally oxidizing finish, giving a rustic appearance, which makes it especially desirable for many architectural projects. The natural appearance allows the building to take its place in its natural environment. Again, 2020 Architects was one of the first to use this material in

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Corten sheets are used to clad the entire property in Hyde & Hyde’s ‘photographer’s house.’

This L-shaped house by 2020 Architects, gives the appearance of existing in two units.

house design with its award-nominated Cairn Road House. At present, only two residential properties in Northern Ireland incorporate Corten into their design. The box-shaped ‘photographer’s house’ by Hyde & Hyde Architects is a perfect example of this raw and rich material wrapping around the entire house. The exterior, entirely clad with Corten sheets, reinforces the authentic nature of this site, which is located on a disused quarry on the edge of Brecon National Park in Wales.

“Glulam structures are hot on trend at the moment.”

renders, has introduced a range of new colours to its collection. Charcoal is a firm favourite among top design teams at the moment, due to its striking appearance and contemporary finish.

LIVING WALLS Currently, the big debate in our office is the concept of internal living walls. Granted, a garden inside your home is not for everyone. However, it does offer a quirky alternative to walls and can enrich buildings with colour and life.

BLACK IS BACK Black corrugate is another material which our designers are loving at the moment. When used in roofing and sheeting, it creates an incredible finish with a modern twist. Keeping on the black theme, K Rend, which manufactures coloured silicone

For more information, telephone 028 2766 7999, e-mail info@2020architects.co.uk or visit www.2020architects.co.uk

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AWARDS

PROJECT AT BDP ARCHITECTS IS RECOGNISED IN THE SMALL COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR CATEGORY AT PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS…

Mapei UK comfortably secures shortlisted place at FERFA Awards

apei is delighted to announce that the company has been shortlisted at the prestigious annual FeRFA resin flooring awards for ‘Small Commercial Project of the Year’ for its work with Coatech at BDP Architects practice, Bristol. Mapei’s innovative Mapefloor Comfort flooring system in AR/X Grey was installed to cover 180m2 of flooring in the meeting and bathroom areas, simultaneously providing a modern resin flooring solution and acting as a demonstration tool for prospective clients. National Specification Manager, Mo Aljan, commented, “The shortlisting not only reflects how great the Mapefloor Comfort flooring system is, but also all of the hard work Mapei’s technical team and the Installers, Coatech, put in to this project.” Initially the carpet tiles and multiple layers of

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vinyl tiles were removed, exposing the sub base. A cove was installed to all the walls in the washroom area, ensuring the floor area remained easy to clean and maintain. Mapecomfort rubber mat was adhered to the floor with Mapefloor Pore Filler, then coated with the Mapefloor Pore Filler again. Once this had cured, Coatech applied a coat of Mapei Mapefloor PU 460, a 2-3mm flexible, self-smoothing polyurethane. To finish, two coats of Mapei Mapefloor Finish 58 W, a matt finish polyurethane coating was applied. The comfortable level of flooring is provided from the elastic matting at the base of the system also has excellent soundproofing capabilities, reducing the impact of noise transmission into areas below. The flooring system has a high resistance to wear, making it ideal in offices where abrasion

The Mapei Floor Comfort System at BDP Architects.

from constant foot traffic and moveable office furniture such as castor chairs is prevalent. E-mail info@mapei.co.uk or telephone 0121 508 6970 for more information regarding Mapei’s Mapefloor Comfort flooring system.

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

MERCHANT NEWS

Ricky Kelly, Ladas Drive Plumbmaster Branch Manager, and Paul McDowell, Plumbmaster Sales Manager, are pictured handing over a table to Claire McConville, Community Support Worker, of the Walkway Community Centre in East Belfast.

It was a packed house for Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, hosted by Haldane Fisher and Plumbmaster in Newry.

Haldane Fisher reaches out to the local community

aldane Fisher has been doing its bit for the local community through a series of events across the company’s branches. Haldane Fisher and Plumbmaster in Newry took part in Macmillan’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning, raising £700 for the charity. Macmillan Cancer Support also benefited from a golf day organised by Haldane Fisher’s Ballymena branch. It is hoped this will now become an annual event and this year it raised over £200 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Haldane Fisher’s new-look plumbing and heating merchant, Plumbmaster, has also been doing its bit for charity and presented a cheque for £200 to Energy for Children Charitable Trust following a charity sweepstake during Euro 2016. The popular Rothenberger promotion held during the Euros has also helped deserving charities and causes within the local communities near Plumbmaster’s various branches. Finally, the Haldane Fisher’s Belfast and Bangor branches also hosted their own golf days.

Some of the customers who took part in the Belfast branches’ golf day at Shandon Park Golf Club.

Ricky Kelly, Ladas Drive Plumbmaster Branch Manager, presenting a cheque for £200 to Alex Megarry, Energy for Children Charity Liaison Officer. Pictured presenting a cheque to Susan from Macmillan Cancer Support are (from left) Carl Toman, Branch Manager; Michael Dougan, Assistant Branch Manager; along with Marcin Pacholski and Neil Dempster. The money was raised through the Ballymena branch’s golf day.

All ready to face the fairways for Haldane Fisher, Bangor’s golf day.

Haldane Fisher, Shepherd’s Way, Carnbane, Newry, BT35 6QQ T: 028 3026 3201 www.haldane-fisher.com

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INTERNAL PLASTER

JORIS SMET, DIRECTOR, SMET BUILDING PRODUCTS LTD, SHOWS HOW CHOOSING THE RIGHT INTERNAL PLASTER CAN HELP IMPROVE INDOOR COMFORT IN PASSIVE AND NEW BUILDINGS…

Building Passive? Pick the perfect plaster

uropeans spend at least 90% of their time indoors, and it’s well known that indoor air quality has a major influence on the health, comfort and well-being of building occupants. Much has been written about how poor indoor air quality can be linked to Sick Building Syndrome, reduced productivity in offices and impaired learning in schools. We construct buildings primarily as shelter from weather, providing us with security, living space, and privacy, for storage, and to live and work in comfort. As a result of the regulations for improved energy efficiency in new buildings, the growth in Passive House buildings, and increased interest in healthier, more comfortable and ‘greener’ living environments, the variety of ‘breathable’ internal building components such as insulation, render, plaster and paint has grown. The rise and popularity of these type of products help ensure that the critical airtightness (highly desired in the new building) is not hampered by poor water vapour permeability, leading to an unhealthy, or uncomfortable internal environment. Thus, we need more effective solutions in building materials which can help maximise this internal comfort of our new buildings, while promoting ultimate energy efficiency and simultaneously trying to encourage exchange of outside and inside air. And all this has to be done in a sustainable way!

CASEA Klimafeinputz KFP - Breathable Fine Finishing Plaster.

COMPLEMENTING PASSIVE HOUSE It’s widely known that internal wet wall plasters contribute to achieving airtightness. What is less well known is that choosing the right plaster can not only provide airtightness, but can also can play a major role in improving internal environmental comfort by ensuring constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment. Smet Building Products Ltd, the agent for leading German manufacturer, CASEA, has introduced the latest in internal moisture regulating plasters - CASEA Casucalc Klima, an internal base coat plaster, and CASEA Klimafeinputz KFP, a breathable fine finishing plaster. The Klimafeinputz KFP breathable fine finishing plaster is unique in that, rather than being a pure cement or pure gypsumbased plaster, it combines the properties of gypsum, lime and clay. The product’s

special composition, consisting of clay, fine white lime, fractional sands, marble powder and CASUL white pigment, allows the product to breathe and also provides a high level of protection against micro-organism/ mould growth, without the use of chemical additives. Sourced naturally and ecologically, the components of lime and clay combine for excellent technical properties, offering moisture absorption, moisture regulation, strength and protection against microorganism growth. Klimafeinputz KFP permits constant hygrometric exchange between the substrate and the environment. It regulates moisture in the air and it’s highly breathable, therefore, contributing to humidity regulation – and it works by absorbing moisture quickly and also by releasing it quickly. Similarly, due to its natural chemical composition, it’s particularly alkaline, naturally preventing bringing european innovation

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INTERNAL PLASTER

A sustainable plaster which can help maximise the comfort in passive and new buildings by offering breathability, moisture absorption, moisture regulation, strength and lasting protection against micorganism growth.

any mould growth (a property particularly important in the airtight envelopes of the newly built Passive homes). With all these advantages, Klimafeinputz KFP breathable fine finishing plaster is the architect’s choice in the design of a healthy indoor climate, and it’s naturally sustainable, containing no harmful ingredients.

IMPROVING BUILDING HEALTH The plaster is extremely versatile and can be applied onto all common base coats such as lime-cement, cement, gypsum, gypsumlime, gypsum lime-clay and clay plastering renders, as well as onto plaster boards. The addition of CASUL white pigment means that the dried finished plaster has a very bright, white colour, which is excellent news as painting is not mandatory. However, if a colour finish is required, and in order to facilitate maximum breathability when painting, you can use compatible silicate, lime or clay-based paints.

CASEA Klimafeinputz KFP is a factoryproduced special white, mineral fine plaster CS I - according to EN 998-1 suitable for indoor use. It’s pre-mixed and supplied in ready-to-use 25kg buckets with a smooth finish. The addition of the natural binders allows a long open time, ensuring the perfect finish is achieved. Technically, it has an excellent bond to virtually any mineral substrate, therefore proving particularly suitable for new builds. It’s very versatile for walls constructed out of low, medium and high density blockwork and any other masonry substrate. As a finish skim coat, it’s ideal for final finishing of CASEA Casucalc Klima basecoat and CASEA Bauprotec renders and plasters where a smooth finish is required. Being a strong plaster, it can be used in kitchens and bathrooms where tiling is required. The special features dramatically improve the indoor living environment and are active throughout the lifetime of the plaster

surface, making it ideal for use in kitchens, living rooms, student accommodation, hotels, conference facilities, sports facilities - or anywhere where a comfortable indoor ambience is required.

Benefits of CASEA Casucalc Klima and Klimafeinputz KFP • High water vapour permeability (breathability) • Hand or machine application • High hygrometric exchange • High protection against micro-organism growth • Sustainable • Smooth finish • Ready to use • CE EN 998-1:2010 • Comes in 30kg bags and recyclable 25kg buckets • Painting not mandatory

bringing european innovation

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MERCHANT NEWS

MURDOCK BUILDER’S MERCHANTS ACQUIRES THE MERCHANTING DIVISION OF FR CATHCART IN ENNISKILLEN…

Murdock Group extends services and expertise to Fermanagh and beyond

urdock Builder’s Merchants, which has branches across Northern Ireland and in Dublin, has acquired the merchanting division of FR Cathcart Ltd in Enniskillen, bringing its total number of branches to twelve. FR Cathcart Ltd, which has successfully operated as a family business since 1972, is widely regarded as one of Northern Ireland’s leading independent suppliers of building materials. The acquisition offers a strategic opportunity for the Newry-based Murdock group to extend its reach across Northern

Pearse Gildernew, Sales Manager.

Ireland where it already has nine branches, as well as two outlets in Dublin. The move will also enable Murdock’s to enhance its service levels across the west of the province by providing its customers in the border counties with a local collection and delivery point. Twelve existing members of FR Cathcart staff are transferring over to Murdock’s as part of the acquisition agreement, joining the company’s 300-strong workforce. Ann Morgan, Murdock’s CEO, said, “This investment offers new challenges and positive opportunities for all of our

“We feel privileged to bring such a well-respected, family-owned company as FR Cathcart Ltd into the Murdock Builders Merchants Group.” 68 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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MERCHANT NEWS

customers and staff. We feel privileged to bring such a well-respected, family-owned company as FR Cathcart Ltd into the Murdock Builders Merchants Group and are grateful to Richard and Roisin Cathcart for all their assistance and co-operation through the acquisition process. “With the deal complete, we look forward to working with the team at the Enniskillen branch and in particular to building upon their previous success.” Richard Cathcart also commented, “The Cathcart family is confident that this is the right time to hand over the reins of the merchanting division of FR Cathcart Ltd to Murdock Builder’s Merchants. “We are extremely proud of the business that we have built up since 1972 and the wonderful staff relationships that have been developed over those years. Looking to the future, our priority was to take the business to the next level, so it was vital that we found an independently-owned

and progressively-minded company such as Murdock’s to take over our merchanting division. “We wish all our employees and our customers continued success with Murdock’s and thank them for their loyalty and friendship over the past years.” While the ownership has changed, the FR Cathcart name will remain in place for the foreseeable future. The majority of staff have also remained in place as well, with new Sales Manager, Pearse Gildernew and Operations Manager, Barry McKenna, joining the well-established FR Cathcart team from Murdock’s Dungannon branch. “We have tried to ensure, as much as possible, that it is business as usual with a view to improving all aspects of the business as we move forward,” said Pearse. “We have been really well received by the loyal customer base and the staff have responded very positively, which has made the transition period run very smoothly.

“Both Murdock’s and Cathcart’s are very similar, and we are looking forward to building from what is a very solid base. We’re competitive on price and place a strong emphasis on service. Being able to tap into the resources of the wider Murdock’s network will only benefit Cathcart customers.”

Cathcart Builders Merchants, Breandrum, Tempo Road, Enniskillen, BT74 6HR T: 028 6632 3551 – E: cathcart@murdockbuildersmerchants.com www.murdockbuildersmerchants.com

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PROJECT LEADS

CLARE LENNON, NI RESEARCHER FOR CIS IRELAND, PROVIDES A REGULAR INSIGHT INTO THE LATEST PROJECTS...

Work starts on a range of Belfast commercial projects

orthern Ireland construction activity has remained consistent throughout September with a number of large projects across the sectors expected to move stage in the final quarter of the year. The commercial sector has seen a good range of projects start on-site recently. Phase 5 of the Quays Shopping Centre extension in Newry is underway with O’Hare and McGovern constructing. This work will see the creation of a stand-alone retail scheme featuring six retail units and three restaurants at a cost in the region of £20million. Main contractor Tracey Brothers is progressing work for the Henderson Group on a £10million storage and distribution warehouse, offices and staff welfare facilities in Mallusk, County Antrim. O’Hare & McGovern has also started works on the construction of a new office building close to Central Station in Belfast for US firm Allstate. Michael Nugent Limited has been awarded the mechanical and electrical installations on this £13million project. Construction work has also started on the £9.3million Hampton by Hilton hotel in Belfast. Works are being undertaken by MSM Contracts Limited. Bennett Construction Limited is poised to start work on a £9million retail extension at the Primark store at Bank Buildings in Belfast as soon as demolition works are completed. In addition, plans have been submitted for a £2.8million office building at Oyster House, Belfast. Also in the city, Raidio Failte TEO is planning to build a £1.2million recording studio with visitor facilities. In the hotel and leisure sector, planning approval has

BRICK BITS

been issued for a £3million 24-bed boutique hotel and restaurant in L’Derry. In the education Sector, the tendering procedure has started for the construction of a £6.2million 21-class based primary school in Dunmurry, County Antrim for the Holy Evangelist Primary School. An on-site start date has been set for April 2017. Meanwhile Newbridge Integrated College in Loughbrickland, County Down is set for a new sports hall facility and classroom provision in a £2.4million development. QMAC Construction will be starting work in October on the £3.8million sports hall and classroom accommodation at Erne Integrated College in Enniskillen. The ABC Council is planning a new £25million sports/leisure facility at South Lake, Craigavon, County Armagh. Looking to the residential Sector, projects at a pre-planning stage include 280-300 new houses in Drumahoe, County L’Derry. Braidwater Limited is behind this £18million proposal. Back in Belfast, French company Stargime is proposing a £10 million office building at Graham House, Albert Square. Access full details on these and thousands of other key and major construction projects on our online database. Sign up to one of our great value subscription services today to get unlimited access to in-depth, fully researched projects on our online database. * This CIS data was accurate on 7th October 2016.

Visit www.cisireland.com for the latest project updates on these schemes or call 028 4064 8110.

THE LATEST REPUBLIC OF IRELAND PROJECTS… PROJECT

COUNTY

PROMOTER

CONTRACT STAGE

€58m Commercial Development

Dublin

Meyer Bergman

Plans Submitted

€25m Student Accommodation

Dublin

Hattington Student Housing

On Site

€60m Hotel Development

Dublin

Fanagans Funeral Directors

On Site

€7m Nursing Home Development

Donegal

DHM Developments

Plans Granted

€4.5m Health Centre Extension

Cork

Bon Secours Health

Plans Granted

€2m Supermarket Development

Cork

Lidl Ireland GMBH

Plans Submitted

€2.3m Housing Development

Limerick

MA Ryan & Sons

Plans Submitted

€60m Consultancy Services

Dublin

Dublin Port

Tender

€400k Social Housing

Mayo

St Vincent De Paul

Tender

€28m Residential Development

Dublin

Ronan Group

Contract Awarded

• A design team is required for refurbishment works at the Grand Opera House, Belfast. • £26million railway station redevelopment plans are on track for 2018 to start in L’Derry. • Campbell College, Belfast, is set for new science laboratory block and new/or refurbished sports building. • A new secondary school development to accommodate 800 pupils is on the cards for Enniskillen. • Planning approval has been issued for a £1million boutique hotel and restaurant in Belfast. • MSM Contracts Limited has started work on £2million apartments in Belfast. • Heron Brothers is on site at Almac in Craigavon constructing £3.7million cold storage accommodation. • TAL Limited is constructing a £2.7million creative arts centre at St Louis Grammar School in Ballymena.

FOR THE LATEST CONSTRUCTION LEADS, VISIT WWW.CISIRELAND.COM

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

INTRODUCTION NEW CENTRE PROVIDES A DYNAMIC ENTREPRENEURIAL NUCLEUS FOR START-UP BUSINESSES AND EXPANDING FIRMS SPECIALISING IN RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, INNOVATION AND OTHER CREATIVE SOLUTIONSâ&#x20AC;¦ g

The Innovation Factory opens for business in Belfast

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

MAIN CONTRACTOR

FORMER MACKIE’S SITE IS REBORN AS A HUB OF INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP…

Heron Bros receives exceptional scores for Innovation Factory project

he £9.1million Innovation Factory is a pioneering, creative business space at Forthriver Business Park on the Springfield Road, Belfast, just 10 minutes from the city centre. It provides 55,000 square feet of flexible workspace, set over four floors, on the site of the former Mackie & Sons engineering factory and was officially opened in October. The 52-week project for Belfast City Council, part funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Sustainable Competitiveness Programme for Northern Ireland, was procured by Heron Bros under a design and build contract. Site Manager, Brian Magill, said, “due to the brownfield ground conditions, the main works comprise a complex foundation design. The back of the site is piled and the front of it has pad and ground beam foundations with

a deep trench fill. The ground floor slab is ground-bearing, supporting a steel frame structure and metal deck upper floors. “The roof is pitch and is covered with a standing seam insulated roof system with two large roof lights/atriums. The external façade comprises a cavity wall construction with a red Belfast facing brick externally, to mirror the historical factor and mill usage of the site, and internal framing system. Curtain walling, windows and doors are all aluminium.” Externally, the site was developed to provide ample car parking for the new centre along with drainage, fencing and hard and soft landscaped areas.

TURNKEY DESIGN The building is intended for start-up companies, as well as existing small-tomedium enterprises in Belfast. The office accommodation includes 382 workstations

across 111 business units, and will house more than 100 businesses and entrepreneurs at full capacity. The offices are fully fitted to Grade A standard, and provide flexibility to allow expansion as individual tenants grow. Heron Bros developed and implemented its Stakeholder Engagement Strategy, which involved working collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure that the needs of the end-user were considered. Through monthly meetings, the team gained an insight into design elements to improve the end-user’s experience. This collaborative approach resulted in the delivery of a high-quality office space providing fully serviced facilities, meeting and conference rooms, hot-desks, superfast broadband, 24/7 access for tenants, and on-site catering. The building was designed and built to BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating. The design utilised natural materials, maximises natural

“The design utilised natural materials, maximises natural light and achieved excellent acoustic and air permeability performance.” 72 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

PROJECT PROFILE

light and achieved excellent acoustic and air permeability performance. Energy-efficient and complex smart technologies have been installed, and the building was awarded Sustainable Project of the Year at the Sustainable Ireland Awards 2016. The project has been designed to BIM Level 2 and, with the use of the collaboration tool, Aconex, the client had constant real-time access to design information. Using BIM, Heron Bros encouraged collaboration with stakeholders, which positively influenced the culture of the project as the company’s online knowledge-sharing platform ensured that everyone was kept informed. BIM also enabled Heron Bros to co-ordinate three primary design functions - integrate supply chain design, and identify conflicts and clashes. The company provided BIM training and also supported suppliers who were not yet BIM enabled. This resulted in the project being completed three weeks ahead of schedule, on time and on budget. Turner & Townsend Project Manager, Colm Lavery, stated, “The relationship with the Heron Bros team has been very collaborative. The completion ahead of programme and the smooth handover are a testament to the professionalism of the Heron project team.”

COLLABORATION The collaborative approach didn’t stop there. Located in proximity to one of Belfast’s well-known peace lines, the project required careful co-ordination and continual liaison through Heron Bros’ Considerate Constructors Programme with local community groups, residents, Belfast City Council and police, to gain complete community support for the project. All of the social clause targets were met in full or exceeded by the contractor, resulting in over 220 employment weeks being provided for the long-term unemployed, 343 placement weeks being delivered and 10 apprenticeships being sustained throughout the contract. The project was also proved a success for the pilot of the company’s bespoke Keystone Quality Control & Defect Management app, delivering it with zero defects. The company also delivered the project within a very strict timescale, with pre-contract design meetings providing a platform to identify opportunities to improve performance, increase efficiency and fast-track the programme. This was also complemented by Heron Bros’ project team at The Innovation Factory also had an exceptional

commitment to health and safety. They demonstrated careful site management, and attention to training and supervision, ensuring good communication with stakeholders and promoting an excellent health and safety culture. Developing health and safety initiatives in accordance with the company’s Start Smart business improvement programme, the team’s diligence towards health and safety was evident by achieving zero accidents and 74,000 accident-free working hours.

Project team… PROJECT: The Innovation Factory CLIENT: Belfast City Council VALUE: £9.1million CONCEPT ARCHITECT: McAdam Design ARCHITECT: GM Design SERVICES ENGINEER: JCP, Michael Nugent Ltd, Williams & Shaw STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: McAdam Design, Thompson Barr

Heron Bros Ltd, 2 St Patrick’s Street, Draperstown, BT45 7AL T: 028 7962 8505 - E: info@heronbros.com www.heronbros.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

PARTITIONS AND SUSPENDED CEILINGS

G&D INTERIORS CONTINUES LONG-STANDING WORKING RELATIONSHIP WITH HERON BROS TO DELIVER QUALITY WORK AHEAD OF SCHEDULE…

Good job delivered by G&D Interiors

t the new Forthriver Innovation Factory, G&D Interiors fitted the external steel-framed system, which was supplied by Steel Formed Sections, based in Monaghan. “We also fitted the internal partitions and MF ceilings,” explained Co-Director, Damien McLaughlin. “They were British Gypsum products, supplied by SIG in Belfast, which is our main supplier throughout the UK and Ireland. The suspended ceilings that we fitted were all Armstrong products and, again, were supplied by SIG. To complete our work, we fitted the access flooring which was made and supplied by Hereford company, Permaflor. “The project was on a very tight schedule, but through cooperation with all the other trades we were able to hand over a few

weeks early,” stated Damien, whose team went the extra mile to ensure a speedy delivery. “We have been working with Herons for 14 years now and during that time have built up a rapport which benefits both them and us,” he continued. “We know what high standards they expect and they in turn know that they can rely on us to do a first-rate job. As a result, we have worked on numerous contracts with them throughout the UK on a wide range of projects including schools, hospitals, and university buildings.” One of the more rewarding projects which G&D Interiors has worked on with Heron Bros was the Daisy Lodge Cancer Fund for Children’s respite centre, in Newcastle. “The building was awarded a Construction Excellence Award in 2014, but just as

“The project was on a very tight schedule, but through cooperation with all the other trades we were able to hand over a few weeks early.” G&D Interiors 74 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

importantly it was an inspiring project aimed at providing essential respite facilities for families in Northern Ireland affected by cancer,” said Damien. “It was a very worthwhile project to be involved in, and one that gave our team great satisfaction in delivering.” With a reputation for quality, efficient work, G&D Interiors is in demand for work throughout the UK and Ireland and has also won contracts in France and Monaco. G&D Interiors was established three years ago, but the company can boast a highly experienced team with many more years of experience under their belts. Set up by brothers Damien and Gerard McLaughlin, it has grown successfully to a point where it currently employs between 15-25 people, depending on the work load. “We have a lot of experience across a wide range of jobs, and as well as partitions, and metal and suspended ceilings we also offer services such as drylining and computer access flooring, as well as Metsec exterior framing,” added Damien.

G&D Interiors, 6 Sycamore Heights, Claudy, BT47 4BW T: 0779 301 8446 or Gerrard 077 538 90552 E: ganddinteriorsystems@hotmail.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

TILING

JR Tiling provides reliable service at competitive prices

njoying a long-standing working relationship with main contractor, Heron Bros, John McCormick, of JR Tiling, was delighted to be involved with the company again on the Forthriver Innovation Factory. “We installed the ceramic tiling in the toilets and kitchens,” said John. “It was a fairly standard job, and one of many I have carried out for Heron Bros over some 20 years in the tiling business. They’re a firstclass company to work with and, in return, they know they can count on us to get on with the work right away. When the job is ready to go, we’re ready to go!” Other prestigious projects that JR Tiling has worked on with Heron Bros include

the redevelopment of the Kennedy Centre in Belfast and Daisy Lodge, a short break facility for the Cancer Fund for Children in Newcastle, which was awarded a Construction Excellence Award. With many years valuable experience in the tiling industry, John McCormick set up JR Tiling with his son, Roland in 2002, a decision that has proved to be a sound one as the Lisburn-based company has continued to thrive. In addition to an emphasis on high standards of workmanship, JR Tiling is also known for its competitive pricing, a winning combination that has kept this successful father and son partnership busy with work right across the island of Ireland.

JR Ceramic Tiling, 6 Kirkwood Park, Lisburn T: 028 9266 0101 – M: 07759 439 735 E: jrtiling777@btinternet.com

THE FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

PAVING

Quality paving solutions from Castle Paving

njoying a long-standing working relationship with main contractor, Heron Bros and with years of industry experience, Castle Paving was the contractor of choice in the Innovation Factory project, delivering a full hard landscaping, paving and kerbing package. “It was a fairly straightforward job and we were able to lay the kerbs using a mini digger,” said Managing Director, Damien O’Neill. “Due to the high demand for projects like this we have decided to purchase a vacuum installation carrier. This machine lays kerbs more quickly and efficiently. By mechanically laying the kerbs it cuts down on the manual

handling, so it’s a bonus for the layers, but also for the main contractor, as it means the job can be done more quickly. “We carry out a lot of work with Heron Bros across Ireland and the UK, and are currently working with them on the Foyle College project in Londonderry,” continued Damien. “It’s a big job, with 10,000sqm paving and 8,000 kerbs, so our new vacuum installation carrier will come in very useful. Delivering high-quality, cost-effective workmanship and customer service has always been top of the list at Castle Paving.”

“Delivering high-quality, cost-effective workmanship.”

Castle Paving Ireland Ltd, 25a Aghascrebagh Road, Greencastle, Omagh, BT79 8HJ T: 079 8932 3285 – E: info@castlepaving.com www.castlepaving.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

THE FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

JOINERY SUPPLY (DOORS/SCREENS) Expert joinery solutions from Shannon Brothers

s one of Ireland’s largest manufacturers of pre-hung door kits and fire doors, Longford-based company, Shannon Brothers was able to provide proven expertise in the Forthriver Innovation Factory project in Belfast. “Working in conjunction with the main contractor, Heron Bros we produced shop drawings and provided design advice to help take the project from inception to completion,” said Managing Director, Gerry Shannon. “We supplied joinery throughout the building, which included Formica highpressure laminate doors, pre-hung in steel powder-coated wrap-around frames; glazed, fire-rated screens in steel powder-coated wrap-around frames, glazed to the required

fire rating; and supplied timber screens to the atriums, fire-rated to 30 and 60 minutes. “We also partnered with Ecco Hardware, based in Ballymount, Dublin 24 to supply all the architectural ironmongery requirements, thus giving our client, Heron Bros Ltd a complete package. “Our motto is to provide a quality product, competitively priced, on time, every time,” continued Gerry. “We are 100% selfsufficient, and manufacture all our door and timber products in-house, giving us full control. Our designers can work with clients to design and produce bespoke fire doors and joinery components, and our services are competent, professional and flexible.”

Shannon Brothers Longford Ltd, ‘Joseph House’, Townspark Industrial Estate, Athlone Rd, Longford, N39 W5N8 T: 00353 43 334 6560 – E: info@shannonfiredoors.ie www.shannonfiredoors.ie

FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

LAMINATE SYSTEMS

Quality solutions from Carella

ell-known in the construction industry as a leading supplier of laminate-based products, Carella Laminate Systems manufactured and installed a number of different products on the Forthriver Innovation Factory project. “The bulk of the work was in the washrooms,” said John Patton of Carella. “It included 12mm Compact Solid Grade cubicles which feature a flush front, as well as IPS and solid surface hand wash troughs.” Carella also provided a stunning, bespoke main reception in gloss laminate, and kitchen/tea points on each of the floors. “In addition, we manufactured and installed the kitchen units and worktops on

each of the four levels of the building,” continued John. “The building was finished to a very high spec, and the work all ran very smoothly for us. Carella Laminate Systems has been doing this kind of work for 25 years now. We are well established in the manufacture and installation of fitted specialist furniture, fitted furniture and washrooms, working on contracts right across the UK and Republic of Ireland. “We are currently working on several other major contracts with Heron Bros, which include the new Foyle College and several projects at Almac in Craigavon, and we are also involved in the fit-out of the new Omagh Enhanced Local Hospital.”

Carella Laminate Systems Ltd, 11 Campsie Business Park, McLean Road, Eglinton, Co Londonderry, BT47 3XX. T: 028 7181 0330 – E: info@carella.com www.carella.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

PRECAST CONCRETE AG Precast delivers expert service every step of the way

cheson & Glover’s precast division manufactured and installed two precast stairwells for the Innovation Factory build project, providing a fast, efficient and cost-effective option – not only reducing labour on site but permitting fast installation and providing immediate access to all floor areas. “AG precast stairs and landings can be designed and configured to suit a wide variety of staircase configurations and designs,” said Northern Ireland Flooring Manager, Dennis Kelly. “Our use of custombuilt moulds allows almost endless flexibility to meet the requirements of any project – even curved landings and landings detailed for progressive collapse, if required. So,

rather than adapting a project to fit around the precast stairs, AG’s flexible service allows you to specify exactly the product you need.” The company’s extensive design and engineering teams stay in front of the latest industry innovations and all AG products are manufactured with a quality finish in a controlled factory environment. Installations are performed by fully qualified and experienced precast concrete installers, operating to the highest standards of health and safety from delivery right through to final hand-off, and all projects are overseen by a dedicated site Contracts Manager, who will liaise closely with customer personnel to ensure programme schedules are met.

Head Office – 11 Aghnagar Road, Tullyvannon, Ballygawley, Co Tyrone, BT70 2HW T: 028 8556 8441 – E: precast@acheson-glover.com www.acheson-glover.com

FORTHRIVER INNOVATION FACTORY, BELFAST

FABRICATION Excellent service from Gilmore Engineering

ilmore Engineering was responsible for the fabrication, supply and fitting of two features within the new Forthriver Innovation Factory building - the structural and balustrading elements of the feature staircase and the balustrade metalwork for both fire escapes. “We worked very closely with the main contractor, Heron Bros and the design team to ensure that we produced a finished product of the highest possible quality and standard,” said Jeremy Wilson, Project Draughtsman. “Our experience during our involvement with this project has been rewarding in many aspects, and Gilmore Engineering is

proud to associate our name alongside the many other sub-contractors who had an input in this successful project.” Based in Cullybackey, Gilmore Engineering provides a professional and efficient service in structural steel fabrication, and as a roofing and cladding contractor. “We welcome all enquiries and offer a wide range of engineering solutions, large or small,” continued Jeremy. “We are happy to discuss specific requirements and our extensive range of services includes, but is not limited to, metal fabrication in stainless, mild steel and aluminium; factory maintenance; cladding and roofing; and caravan storage boxes.”

Gilmore Engineering, 10b Dromona Rd, Cullybackey, Co Antrim, BT42 1NT T: 028 2588 2274 – E: info@gilmoreengni.co.uk www.gilmoreengni.co.uk

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MORTAR

RTU mortar at Girdwood Community Hub, Belfast.

RTU Mortar in the MAC Building Belfast.

RTU HIGHLIGHTS THE MANY BENEFITS OF USING THE COMPANY’S 8 OR 36-HOUR RETARDED MORTAR…

Advantages of ready to use mortar over onsite mixing

uilding projects, no matter what size, can have many variables and issues that can arise throughout any stage of the build, but ready mixed mortars and their benefits mean mortar does not need to add to this list. Factory produced mortars delivered to site are 100% ready to use from the moment of arrival. Whether the project is a domestic or commercial site, factory produced mortars can offer the consistency of quality, strength and colour, time and time again.

CONSISTENCY RTU has a computerised plant batching system, meaning accurate cement content can be guaranteed each and every time. However, with onsite mortar mixing, as it is a manual process, cement content can change and, therefore, the strength of the mortar can be adjusted batch on batch. Furthermore, the colour can also vary when mixed onsite which can transform an architectural feature to a potential eyesore with an overall uneven look. RTU mortars can be ordered for next day delivery directly to your site and ready to use with no further onsite mixing required. It is available as either an 8 or 36-hour retarded

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mortar and therefore remains useable and workable for this period offering greater flexibility to your project and meaning reduced wastage and pilferage. RTU has the added benefit of being able to produce a range of coloured mortars, with over 40 shades available to select from with lighter and darker shade variations. RTU Tub Mortar onsite.

MIA APPROVED The quality of RTU’s service is highly recognised throughout the industry and, being a producer member of the MIA (Mortar Industry Association), the company has the expertise and knowledge. RTU mortar and coloured mortar has been the mortar of choice on many prestigious projects including the new BCB Building, QUB; Girdwood Community Hub; The MAC building, Belfast; Kingspan Rugby Stadium (Ravenhill); the CEM Building, QUB; Skainos Building, Belfast; Friends School, Lisburn; Queens Elms student accommodation; and the Coopers Mill residential development, to name but a few. If you would like more information or to place your order, contact the RTU sales team on 028 9085 1441 or e-mail info@rtu.co.uk.

Advantages of RTU mortar Benefits of factory produced mortar include: • Accurate cement content through a computerised plant. • No need for onsite mixing equipment or storage facilities. • Delivered premixed, so no further mixing required. • Saving on time and labour costs. • Reduced wastage and pilferage. • Choose 8 or 36-hour retarded mortar which remains useable for this period. • Quality assured product that is Third Party accredited. • Guaranteed meeting specification.

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COMPANY NEWS

THE MARKET LEADER IN FIBRE CEMENT ROOF SLATES MARKS EIGHT DECADES OF SUCCESS WITH A NEW LOOK…

Tegral celebrates 80 years with new brand and logo

egral, a market leader in roofing and Ireland’s only manufacturer of fibre cement roof slates, recently celebrated 80 years in business by unveiling a stunning new corporate brand that captures the rich history of the company and reflects its ambitious vision for the future. Since first establishing its manufacturing base in Athy in 1936, Tegral has made a significant contribution to the Irish construction industry and now employs 150 people across its operations. Tegral’s rebranding represents its successful transition to a market-leading company that’s significantly evolved beyond its roof slate heritage; the business now offers a wide and diverse catalogue of products that span fibre cement slates as well as a comprehensive range of metal roofing, cladding and flooring systems designed to the highest international standards and purposed for modern renovations, self builds, commercial, industrial and agricultural construction.

NEW BRAND The new Tegral logo signifies a fresh and confident visual identity with clean and contemporary lines that perfectly positions Tegral into the future, and beyond. The logo is made up of two strong colours; a brand new slate grey colour underpins

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the company’s intentions to continue to innovate and break new boundaries in its relentless focus on quality. The red is carried through from the previous Tegral logo, and serves as a tribute to its history and 80 years in business. Cleverly hidden within the new Tegral logo are angles of 10° and 70° to reflect the minimum and maximum roof pitch, +90° angles to reflect cladding and the other brand offerings. This hidden design feature shows how dedicated Tegral is to providing a top class service, proving they go the extra mile to ensure perfection. Tegral’s new tagline is ‘Building for Generations’, is carefully nuanced to draw on Tegral’s unique and rich heritage, while also projecting its commitment to the future.

ASSET Speaking about the 80th anniversary and the milestone rebrand, Paddy Kelly, Managing Director of Tegral, said, “Our 80th anniversary is a proud landmark for us as a team and as a business that’s survived and grown through three recessions and countless other challenges. “Our new brand reflects who we are today; we are an ambitious, progressive and forward-looking company, but our team

remain grounded and loyal to the heritage that has served us with distinction these past 80 years. “Our people are Tegral’s greatest asset they are the lifeblood of our business and have been instrumental in our survival. Our success today is a testament to their hard work, passion and their shared commitment to build for generations.” He added, “I’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our team, and also to our valued self-build customers and suppliers who have shown tremendous loyalty and service to Tegral down through the years. Their support for Tegral, the only Irish manufacturer of fibre-cement roof slates, has allowed us grow and develop into a market leader that is recognised internationally for our relentless focus on quality and innovation. The secret to our success is simple; we produce the best quality roofing and cladding products to the market, and we continue to invest significantly in innovation and R&D, ensuring that we continue to manufacture to the highest international standards and with operational excellence.” For more information telephone Tegral Building Products Ltd 00353 (0) 59 86 31316, e-mail info@tegral.com or visit www.tegral.com

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GRINDERS

WITH MORE THAN 100 NEW FEATURES, AND 54% MORE EFFICIENT, THE DURATIQ FROM HTC IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH…

HTC launches Duratiq - a brand-new generation of floor grinders

wedish company HTC, which years ago developed the method of grinding floors using diamond abrasive technology, is now launching a totally newlydeveloped floor grinder - Duratiq. The machine is available in two grinding widths, 600 and 800 millimetres. Both versions are completely new designs and are based on many years of intensive studies of customers’ future needs. Some of the 100 new features incorporated into Duratiq are: • Newly-designed, user-firendly digital control panel and remote control that offer operators full control and easy handling. • New grinding head, hermetically sealed and dustproof for maximum reliability. • Compact, robust chassis design for optimal manoeuvrability, handling and simple transport. • Enhanced AirFlow technology and Mist Cooler System that increase productivity by up to 216%, and dust collection by 100%. • Simple-to-adjust weights, 20 different handle settings, and 74% less vibration ensure significantly improved ergonomics. Since Duratiq has been designed from scratch by HTC’s own R&D department, no detail has been left to chance. The numerous smart features include GPS tracking, USB ports to download operating data, upload new software and charge personal equipment. Stefan Lind, CEO of HTC, emphasises that this is the most pioneering launch in the history of the company. “HTC developed

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“This is the most pioneering launch in the history of the company.” the method for grinding concrete floors using diamond abrasive technology 29 years ago,” he said. “The step that we are now taking with the launch of Duratiq is almost as huge in the development of our business and the industry. Duratiq sets a completely new standard for productivity, reliability, operability and flexibility. I’m convinced that the industry will talk about the time before and after Duratiq in the same way that we sometimes talk about leading-edge innovations in technologies, such as mobile telephony. “As a company, HTC’s fundamental motivating force is to always be at the forefront of development. Once again,

Duratiq is proof of HTC’s innovation for the whole industry,” concluded Stefan. The Duratiq grinding machines have been tested for more than 5,000 hours before the launch. Because of the precise, yet extremely robust design, of every single detail, the service interval is an impressive 1,000 hours. Thanks to a new modular structure and meticulous design detail, it is easier than ever to replace high-wear parts. For instance, it only takes about 40 minutes to replace a belt. Another new feature for the industry is the option of configuring your Duratiq entirely to your own needs or upgrading your machine afterwards. The customer chooses the size (600 or 800 mm grinding width), electric power version, the number of grinding discs and whether to have the machine fitted with remote control. There are then a number of optional packages: water, light and GPS. Finally, the customer has the option of customising the machine with additional weights, cupholders and other accessories. Duratiq was launched worldwide on September 7. For further information, visit the website at www.duratiq.com

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CONCRETE ADMIXTURES FOR PRECAST, READY-MIX, MORTARS AND SCREEDS

Distributor for: Oscrete Construction Products • Precast Concrete Admixtures • Readymix Concrete Admixtures • Quick drying Screeds • Synthetic Fibres Micro and Macro • Glass Fibres • Microsilica • Tubs and Liners

STRONGER TOGETHER! T: 028 9262 6735 31 Enterprise House - 6 Enterprise Crescent - Lisburn - BT28 2BP

www.adcrete.co.uk

COMPANY NEWS

ADCRETE LTD PROVIDES INNOVATION, EXPERIENCE AND FIRST-CLASS PARTNERING TO THE PRECAST CONCRETE, READY-MIX AND READY-TO-USE MORTAR INDUSTRIES…

Stronger together! B ased at Lisburn Enterprise Centre, Adcrete Ltd is an enterprising new company, formed in early 2016 and primarily focused on serving the ready-mix and precast concrete production markets. Specialties include admixtures, fibres, concrete repair, highway barriers, micro silica, waterproof concrete and quick-drying screeds. Adcrete Directors Gus Vaughan, Pat Ellison and Jonathan Mooney have a wealth of experience in both concrete production and testing in the Northern Irish markets and have already started to make their mark with the appointment of Adcrete as the official distributor of Oscrete Construction Products in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Adcrete is now also the official distributors of Guard Industries products throughout Northern Ireland, which include a vast range of concrete protection products along with biodegradable concrete remover and degreaser for trucks and plant. “We envisage an exciting future in partnering Oscrete in this venture,” said Gus. “We pride ourselves in having a reputation for providing innovation, experience and first-class partnering to the precast concrete, ready-mix and ready-to-use mortar industries. “Our product quality excellence is supported by a highly trained and diversely balanced technical support staff, enabling our customers to continually develop their products and add value to their business.” High-performance super-plasticising admixtures, waterproofing agents and efflorescence controllers form the mainstay of Adcrete’s ever-developing product range. “The revolutionary concrete repair and cosmetic product range for the precast industry is our most exciting new facet in product development,” said Pat. “Adcrete enjoys a reputation for trailblazing and we have already tailored repair materials to exactly match the grade and shade specified by our clients.”

FORWARD LOOKING As a cutting-edge company in the admixture industry, Adcrete prides itself with spearheading the introduction of chopped glass fibres for concrete and screed to the Irish market.

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Adcrete Directors Jonathan Mooney, Pat Ellison and Gus Vaughan.

“Now with the Oscrete portfolio of admixtures, Adcrete have the products at our disposal to fulfil the appetite we have in providing solutions to our customers specific needs.” The company also distributes conventional polypropylene micro and macro fibres, as well as supplying micro-silica in Ireland. This is available bagged and bulk, in both powder and slurry form to meet exacting needs. In support of the admixture business, Adcrete has formed a partnership with leading UK manufacturer of plastic construction elements, Oakland Plastic Limited. “We provide mortar tubs and liners in a range of colours, with the option of customer branding,” explained Jonathan. “We also have an extensive range of highway and pedestrian barriers, and are looking forward to further developing our full service company with more high-calibre materials. “We are very excited about Adcrete and its future, and look forward to provide these quality products and services throughout Ireland. Our motto is simple - people and products are ‘stronger together’ with Adcrete!” For more information, telephone 028 9262 6735, e-mail sales@adcrete.co.uk or visit the website at www.adcrete.co.uk

Adcrete partners with Oscrete Business for Adcrete got off to a flying start with its appointment by Oscrete Construction Products, part of the international Christeyns Group, as its distribution partner for Northern Ireland and Ireland. Oscrete manufactures a comprehensive range of concrete admixtures for the precast and readymix markets and already has a large market share in the UK mainland. This new partnership is enabling Oscrete to reach the Northern Irish and Irish concrete markets and also enabling it to offer local technical and commercial support to its existing and new customer base. Adcrete will hold stock of the Oscrete admixtures and other ancillary products (such as the Renocem repair compounds and Owens Corning glass reinforcing fibres) in Belfast.

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BRICKS

MORVAN BLACK BRICK, AVAILABLE FROM KINGSCOURT COUNTRY MANOR BRICKS, WORKS PERFECTLY FOR A CONCEPTUAL BUILD THAT HAS NATURE, NATURAL LIGHT AND NATURAL AIR AT ITS HEART…

Morvan black brick plays an important role in striking new home

ituated in a prominent location, overlooking the city of Winchester and its beautiful surrounding countryside, stands ‘Four Views’. This striking, upside-down build contrasts with its conventional neighbours, displaying a flat, overhanging roof, Morvan black brick, cedar wood cladding and grey aluminium framed windows. In 2011, the architect, AR Design Studio, was approached by a couple wishing to build a new house. They wanted a life experience to immerse themselves in, having recently lost a daughter; a project that would give them a positive focus and a fresh start for them and their family. The conceptual drive behind this house was the principle of the three ‘Ns’ - Nature, Natural light and Natural air. The form of the replacement house is defined by four interlocking boxes. The negative space at their centre forms a ‘Zen’ garden, with a single olive tree at its heart. This simple layout became the foundation on which the principles of the 3Ns could be built.

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• Nature - A connection to nature has long been believed as good for one’s body and soul. This house connects with nature through three stunning, far-reaching views of the South Downs - the long views, inspiring the couple to look forward to the future, the courtyard giving space for inward private and reflective times. Subsequently, the house has become known as Four Views. • Natural Light - The extensive glazing to walls, roof lights and an open central garden allows natural light to flood the upper floor, giving a generous feeling of space. Large sliding panels of glass to the primary elevation and courtyard ensure natural ventilation and also a free flow of natural fresh air. • Natural materials - The materials and fittings are simple and natural to evoke and promote a sense of calm. The brick, Morvan, is unicoloured, anthracite black and fits very well into the concept of

the project. Brick is a natural product and sustainable during all phases of its life cycle. Bricks are made up of a combination of natural elements, ie clay, sand, water, air and fire. The cedar cladding cocoons the house internally and externally, and the delicate scent from this creates a beautiful and tranquil place to live in. For more information on Morvan brick, contact distributor Kingscourt Country Manor Bricks on 028 9077 7321, e-mail info@kcmb.ie or visit www.kcmb.ie

Project info: Architect: AR Design Studio Location: Winchester, Hampshire, UK Brick dealer: Hoskins Brick Vandersanden brick: Morvan Award: Build It Award 2014 (UK) for ‘Best Masonry Home’ Photographs: Courtesy of AR Design Studio

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CARPET TILES

“We have selected denim as a great source of inspiration, a starting point that offers numerous possibilities.”

CELEBRATING THE ESSENCE OF DESIGN, DESSO LAUNCHES JEANS AND RIDGE, THE LATEST ADDITIONS TO THE ‘ESSENTIALS’ CARPET TILE COLLECTION…

Desso introduces collection celebrating iconic textiles

nspired by the diversity and democracy of denim, Desso is introducing Jeans, a new carpet tile reflecting the textile’s iconic status. The range provides six individual interpretations of denim, designed to create impact with an unmistakable and unique identity. Creative and dynamic, Jeans enables designers and architects to create an informal interior environment. The Jeans range features six stunning denim-inspired shades in three different structures, to zone or create large spaces through different textures and subtle patterns. From a light stone-washed effect through to a distinct denim woven look, designers can coordinate and contrast in three different pattern combinations to set a dynamic tone in the workplace. “We are constantly looking for honest and simple solutions to meet the needs for creative and sustainable carpet designs,” said Ludwig Cammaert, Design and Technical Development Director at Desso. “As the Essentials collection focuses on

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fundamental archetypes, we have selected denim as a great source of inspiration, a starting point that offers numerous possibilities.” Ridge is a finely textured carpet tile that offers simple and timeless design, and is available in 12 shades with a detailed structure – the perfect base for minimalist surroundings. A true interior essential, its soft, subtle grooves replicate the natural erosion of the elements; the rim yielding and adapting to the changing environment. With its organic design, the Ridge carpet tile is equally adaptable, adding an understated touch to any space and forming the perfect backdrop for large communal spaces in corporate companies.

ADAPTABLE Desso provides designers with 12 shades to choose from: four warm neutrals, and four cool neutrals, as well as blue, green, pink and red for statement flooring or to make a

striking contrast. Easy to combine with any interior, the range is ideal for environments that quickly need to adapt to change. The Essentials collection is part of the Carpetecture® concept, and comes standard with an EcoBase™ backing that contains upcycled re-engineered calcium carbonate (chalk) from local drinking water companies. “The EcoBase™ backing is 100% recyclable in our own production process and all products in this range are certified Cradle to Cradle® Silver, ensuring that the products contribute positively to the environment, human health and are designed to be recycled in a non-toxic closed loop” said Roland Jonkhoff, Managing Director, Desso. In addition, the Essentials collection contains ECONYL® yarn - a 100% regenerated nylon made from recovered waste materials such as fishing nets and yarn waste from Desso’s own Refinity recycling facility. For more information on the Essentials collection and other Desso collections for commercial spaces, visit www.desso.co.uk

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INFILL FACADE SYSTEM

KNAUF THROUGHWALL PRODUCES AN INDUSTRY FIRST WITH A UNIQUE INNOVATION FOR THE FAÇADES MARKET…

One source, the right solution

ollaboration between Knauf and strategic industry partners has produced a unique innovation for the façades market, the Knauf ThroughWall. The system combines quality products that give Knauf the unique advantage of being able to specify the façade infill panel through to the internal partitions. The complete Knauf ThoughWall infill façade system is a well-researched and developed product, designed for concrete and steel frame buildings above 18m in height. It can be used on a wide variety of applications including residential, commercial, healthcare, education, offices and leisure, for new build as well as refurbishment. Developed by Knauf – one of the world’s leading manufacturers of lightweight building materials and systems – the system is the first in the industry to be supplied by a single manufacturer. This offers architects a single point of contact to provide the complete external and internal specification. By using a single specification for both internal and external elements, Knauf, and Knauf alone, will be responsible for providing a resolution to any issues arising during the project. With separate design details, blame for problems is often shifted from one manufacturer to another, delaying the project and increasing costs. In addition, the ThroughWall solution has the added

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benefit of being supported by a range of insurance-backed Knauf warranties. Durable and high quality engineered components of Knauf ThroughWall deliver excellent acoustic, thermal, fire performance properties and airtightness levels, all while insuring greater sustainability due to Knauf’s responsible manufacturing credentials. ThroughWall was designed as an infill panel solution only, meaning that it can be finished with a number of external façade materials including a range of Knauf renders. The full system comprises the

Knauf Internal Plasterboard, Knauf Mineral Wool Insulation, Knauf SFS, Knauf Windliner and Knauf PIR Insulation. Knauf Windliner is a gypsum-based external grade sheathing board that provides protection against weather elements and offers an excellent level of air-tightness. Suitable for use above 18m, the ThroughWall has met the requirements set out in Annex B of BRE 135 and has successfully passed the test as per British Standard 8414-2. The benefit of using Knauf PIR Insulation above 18m is that it allows for a reduction in the wall thickness of the external envelope, thus creating greater internal spaces, ideal for residential developments. Simplifying the design and specification process for architects has been a major goal for Knauf and its Research and Development team. With ThroughWall, Knauf has produced a solution that will not only facilitate this process but will also provide quality assurances to housebuilders and architects. By combining the internal and external specifications into one, simpleto-understand solution, Knauf has taken some of the hassle out of the specification process. For further information, telephone 0179 542 4499, e-mail info@knauf.co.uk or visit the website at www.knauf.co.uk

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Insulation GAIN AN INSIGHT INTO THE DIVERSE RANGE OF INSULATION PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AND THE LATEST ENERGY EFFICIENT SOLUTIONS...

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Insulation Let us help you meet the latest demands for energy efficiency with our definitive insulation rangeâ&#x20AC;Ś

tennants excellence in building products

Belfast Office: 46 Ravenhill Road Belfast BT6 8EB T: 028 9073 1501 F: 028 9045 0927 E: belfast@tennantsbp.com

www.tennantsbp.com

INSULATION

TENNANTS INSULATION RANGE MEETS THE LATEST DEMANDS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY…

Quality guaranteed by Tennants

nergy efficiency remains high on the construction agenda and, while renewables and Passive House remain an area of focus, the importance of insulation cannot be overlooked. With a definitive insulation range, Tennants can help customers meet the latest demands for energy efficiency. The company takes pride in only working with leading manufacturers, and some of the specialist products available from the company include: • Knauf Insulation – A comprehensive range of plasterboards, drywall and metal partition systems, delivering quality, innovative and cost-effective products. • Isover – Glasswool thermal insulation products, meeting the highest thermal performance labels for industrial, commercial and residential applications.

• Kingspan Insulation – Manufacturers of premium and high performance rigid insulation products and insulated systems for building fabric and building services applications. • Dow Building Solutions – Longlasting building envelope solutions with Styrofoam and an extruded polystyrene insulation that is widely used in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. • Ballytherm – A strong, rigid board-type insulation for damp areas like basements, or any area where flame retardation is desirable. • Rockwool – Tennants provides the complete range of Rockwool thermal products, offering energy savings, fire safety and acoustic improvement. Tennants remains at the forefront of the insulation sector, working alongside world-class manufacturers to provide wideranging solutions for an extensive variety of project types in both the domestic and commercial sectors. These solutions come in various forms, including foams, fibres and wools.

This choice recognises the simple fact that there are no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solutions for projects. With a variety of products available, architects, consultants and contractors can opt for the most suitable solution while also being assured that, regardless of what they select, it will be of the highest possible standards.

Representing leading manufacturers By only working with leading manufacturers, Tennants Building Products provides customers complete peace of mind. The company’s distinctive range of worldclass manufacturers gives you the choice you need when specifying or installing products of the highest quality. This is demonstrated by the range of manufacturers, highlighted below:

Tennants, 46 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 8EB T: 028 9073 1501 – F: 028 9045 0927 – E: Belfast@tennantsbp.com www.tennantsbp.com

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INSULATION

INTRODUCING THE NEW AND EXCITING KINGSPAN KOOLTHERM LOWER LAMBDA RANGE THAT ACHIEVES A LAMBDA VALUE OF JUST 0.018 W/MK…

The art of insulation…by Kingspan Insulation

ingspan Insulation has revolutionised the company’s rigid insulation technology with the introduction of new low lambda products for floor, wall and soffit applications; delivering premium thermal performance with a minimal construction thickness. The lambda of a product is its thermal performance. The lower the lambda value, the more difficult it is for heat to pass through. Therefore, thermal performance is improved and a reduced thickness of insulation is needed to achieve the desired U-value. The advanced composition of Kingspan Kooltherm lower lambda products ensures architects and builders now have even greater freedom to achieve spectacular designs, with inherently outstanding fabric performance, without having to compromise on internal living or working space. Products in the Kingspan Kooltherm lower lambda range have a thermal conductivity of just 0.018 W/m.K across all available board thicknesses - the lowest for any rigid phenolic insulation board. The expanded range now includes Kingspan

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Kooltherm K103 Floorboard, K110 and K110 PLUS Soffit Board, and K118 Insulated Plasterboard; along with K106 and K108 Cavity Wall Board launched this year. The products are manufactured with a blowing agent that has zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and very low Global Warming Potential (GWP). The insulation boards are non-deleterious, easy to handle and install, and are unaffected by air infiltration. Jim Loughran, Kingspan Commercial Director, said, “At Kingspan Insulation

we are very passionate about product development and exceeding expectations and we invest heavily in research and development. “Our new lower lambda range adds another dimension to our product portfolio, allowing us to offer even higher value products from our already extensive range.” For further information on The New Kingspan Lower Lambda Kooltherm Range, please call Kingspan Insulation Ltd. Tel: +353 (0) 42 979 5000 or visit kingspaninsulation.ie/innovation

Lambda values The new Kingspan Kooltherm products have a lambda value of just 0.018 W/m.K across all thicknesses. Here are the thicknesses required for commonly used insulation materials to achieve the same level of thermal perfomance: Lambda W/m.K Type of Insulation 0.018 Lower lambda Kingspan Kooltherm 0.020 Kingspan Kooltherm 0.022 PIR 0.034 Rock Mineral Fibre Thickness of insulation to achieve an R-value of 2.857 m2.K/W. Thicknesses are rounded up to the nearest 5mm.

Thickness 55mm 60mm 65mm 100mm

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RICS AWARDS

Last year’s RICS Awards Project of the Year was The Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Belfast.

PRESTIGIOUS RICS 2017 AWARDS NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES AS THE SEARCH BEGINS TO FIND THE PROVINCE’S MOST INFLUENTIAL BUILDING….

Search to find Northern Ireland’s top built schemes begins

four month search to find Northern Ireland’s most inspirational building projects is now on, following the opening of entries for the 2017 RICS Awards. The annual awards celebrate the top initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment that provide significant value to the communities they serve. Every year the awards attract dozens of entries from all over Northern Ireland, including small scale pioneering schemes, and large multi-million pound developments. Last year, the £32million Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, situated in the grounds of Belfast City Hospital, was named Project of the Year. The 9,000 square metre building provides accommodation for some 330 members of staff specialising in research into finding cures for eye diseases and diabetes, and the development of a global programme to aid understanding of the genetics of complex chronic diseases. Launching this year’s awards, Chair of the RICS Awards, Northern Ireland judging panel, Michael Hannaway, said, “The

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RICS Awards are a unique opportunity for professionals in the property and construction sectors to have their work highlighted on a local, UK, and international platform, and to showcase their talent and innovation.” There are eight categories to enter in which local property professionals must demonstrate how they have used their skills to develop, regenerate and conserve the environment in which we live and work. These are: • Building Conservation • Commercial property • Community Benefit • Design through Innovation • Infrastructure • Regeneration • Residential • Tourism & Leisure An overall ‘Project of the Year’ is also awarded to the entry that demonstrates outstanding best practice and an exemplary commitment to adding value to

its local area. All category winners go on to compete against other regional winners at the national RICS Awards Grand Final, for the chance to be crowned the overall UK winner in their respective category. Michael added, “A wide range of local schemes have made a positive impact in communities and in business, have broadened our tourism offering, enhanced our infrastructure, revived residential areas, and have restored some of our most-loved buildings. “I would strongly encourage the professionals behind them to take the opportunity to have their excellent work recognised.” The 2017 RICS Awards, Northern Ireland will be presented at The La Mon Hotel & Spa, Belfast on 25th May, 2017. Entries can now be made to the 2017 RICS Awards, Northern Ireland at www.rics.org/awards and the deadline for entries is 16 January. For further information, contact Susan Mason at RICS e-mail smason@rics.org or 028 9032 2877.

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PVC AND ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS

Eikon Exhibition Centre, Balmoral Park, Lisburn.

Tesco Craigavon.

Law Society House, Belfast.

THE AWARD-WINNING SUPPLIER AND CONTRACTOR PROVIDES BESPOKE SOLUTIONS FOR A WIDE RANGE OF PROJECTS RANGING FROM HEALTHCARE, EDUCATION AND RETAIL TO OFFICES AND HOMES…

Aluminium and PVC solutions from Turkington

he Turkington name is synonymous with quality, service and value, and this experience and expertise continues to play an integral role in a wide range of successful commercial projects. As an award-winning, approved contractor and supplier, Turkington Aluminium & PVC works closely with contractors, architects, specifiers and housing associations on small, medium and large scale contracts. Established in 1951, the company is committed to delivering expert project solutions on time and on budget. Key to this is the company’s vast experience on a wide range of projects alongside its breadth of product options. Turkington Aluminium and PVC supplies and installs a wide range of curtain wall, window and door options, including frameless glazing, high to low-rise curtain walling, atrium roofs, ribbon glazing, bifolding doors, vertical sliders and horizontal sliding doors.

The quality of the product range is enhanced by a superb service. In the initial stages of the project, Turkington Aluminium & PVC can assist clients with drawing design and planning, and then follow this up with full workshop drawings and a collaborative approach as part of the overall contractor team. The company’s experience in project management plays an integral role in this process. Brian McConnell, Sales and Marketing Manager at Turkington Aluminium & PVC said, “We have experience working with a broad range of clients across numerous types of projects, including private individuals, public and private sector organisations, housing associations, health and education boards, local councils, main contractors and developers. “We have a strong foundation in PVC, now strengthened by well established and growing aluminium sales - and both have been included in a wide range of different

projects across the UK and Ireland. As an experienced supplier and installer of aluminium and PVC products for commercial contracts we have a product in our range to meet the needs of the project and exceed the end users’ expectations.” This is reflected in the company’s work, including projects such as Tesco Craigavon; Law Society House, Belfast; Eastpoint Entertainment Village and Cinema complex, Dundonald; Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn; Colby House, Belfast; Lagan Bank Retail Park, Lisburn; and Waddon House, London. The company only offers market-leading aluminium and PVC systems which are all designed to offer high levels of energy efficiency, longevity and functionality. All products are rigorously tested to BS EN standards for wind resistance, water tightness and air permeability. In addition, Turkington Aluminium & PVC is a ConstructionLine approved company and has achieved a range of ISO accreditations.

Turkington Aluminium & PVC, James Park, Mahon Road, BT62 3EH T: 028 3833 2807 - E: estimating@turkington-windows.com Showrooms in Portadown, Lisburn and Dublin - www.turkington-windows.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

INTRODUCTION INSPIRATIONAL TRANSFORMATION OF BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING AT QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY….

New Computer Science building goes online

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PROJECT PROFILE

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

MAIN CONTRACTOR

NEW COMPUTER SCIENCES BUILDING IS TRANSFORMED FROM A CONCRETE CLAD EXTERIOR TO A COLOURFUL LANDMARK THAT IS AS FUNCTIONAL AS IT IS EYE-CATCHING…

O’Hare & McGovern clicks all the right boxes

’Hare & McGovern has completely transformed the new Computer Sciences Building at Queen’s University to create striking yet functional facility. The former concrete-clad building – known as the Bernard Crossland Building - was built in 1970 and was indicative of that period’s architecture. However, the refurbishment couldn’t be further away from that style. Multi-coloured glass fins adorn the exterior BEFORE

of the building to produce a façade that is as impressive in the sunlight as it is when lit up at night. The extensive use of glazing is evident in the front elevation and brings a fresh look to the building, with these impressive aesthetics continuing inside. Natural light, including the use of light tunnels, is a central feature of the building and is as far removed as possible from the dark and dreary rooms associated with the IT sector. O’Hare & McGovern faced a number of practical challenges in recreating this building, specifically with the space constraints around the site. The project included stripping back existing circa 1970 concrete clad building to the concrete frame followed by the demolition of south block and east portions, including a link bridge to the David Keir Building. The main contractor then erected a new

steel framed extension and in-situ concrete basement and associated elements along with the redecoration of terraces located at 14-16 Malone Road, including the reconfiguration of the rear annexes. The expansion and refurbishment has doubled the size of the building, with increased numbers of computing resources, considerably more project space and additional seating/social areas for students. This has created a high-quality, transparent building that establishes a discrete identity for Computer Science, integrating both teaching and research; and delivering a stimulating environment for staff and students. Jason Glasgow, Contracts Manager for O’Hare & McGovern, said, “One of the biggest challenges we faced was the fact that this wasn’t really a refurbishment or a new build, but a mixture of both. We had to

“A high-quality, transparent building that establishes a discrete identity for Computer Science.” 100 | NORTHERN BUILDER MAGAZINE

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PROJECT PROFILE

practically strip the building back to its frame, add on the extension and then rebuild. “We were faced with a tight deadline and faced space constraints around the building in what is a very busy part of the city. We had to work closely with Queen’s University on practical issues like delivery and these had to be precisely co-ordinated. We also had to take into consideration noise, dust and vibration issues. We even had to ensure that the trees at the front of the building were protected and retained. “Logistically, all this was a challenge but we are delighted with the final result. This is a modern, landmark building that delivers on the planned objective of creating a hi-tech, flexible learning environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.” While the main building is an ultra-modern facility that even includes inspiration rooms that woudn’t be out of place at Apple or Google, the project also included the refurbishment of 14 and 16 Malone Road, which are linked to the new building. O’Hare & McGovern had to take more of a heritage approach to this section of the project, with features such as staircases, fireplaces and flooring all retained.

Overall, and in keeping with Queen’s University’s, commitment to sustainability, the building was designed and constructed to minimise its impact on the environment and achieved the target of Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) ‘Very Good’ rating. Damien Toner, Queen’s Director of Estates, said, “The refurbished Computer Science building is the latest in Queen’s £700million 20-year capital investment programme to support world-class education and research and provide an exceptional experience for its students. “The building provides state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities for more than 1,000 students and 60 academic staff and will play a key role in the future growth and development of Northern Ireland’s IT sector. “To ensure the local IT industry can remain competitive at home and internationally, it needs access to a highly skilled workforce who have been educated in a way that is directly relevant to the needs of industry. This facility will ensure Queen’s continues to attract the best staff and students from Northern Ireland and around the world, and produce graduates who will make a positive

impact on society. Alongside other flagship projects - including the newly opened £20million School of Law, the £39million School of Biological Sciences which is due for completion in 2018, and two ongoing schemes to provide 1,200 student bedrooms at two prime sites in Belfast city centre - this development reaffirms Queen’s commitment to supporting the Northern Ireland construction sector.”

Project team… PROJECT: Computer Sciences Building, Queen’s University, Belfast VALUE: £14million MAIN CONTRACTOR: O’Hare & McGovern ARCHITECT: Kennedy Fitzgerald ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR: JD McGeown Ltd MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR: Blackbourne Integrated

O’Hare & McGovern, Carnbane House, Shepherds Way, Carnbane Industrial Estate, Newry, BT35 6EE T: 028 3026 4662 – E: carnbanehouse@ohmg.com www.ohmg.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

INTRICATE AND COMPLEX INSTALLATION BY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR POWERS UP NEW COMPUTER SCIENCES CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE…

BIM brilliance from JD McGeown J D McGeown Ltd has completed the intricate and complex electrical installation at the stunning Bernard Crossland Building at Queen’s University Belfast. At a cost of £9million, the state-of-the-art structure fronting onto the Malone Road presents a modern coloured glass façade and forms a new landmark home and centre of excellence for Computer Sciences. JD McGeown Ltd was responsible for the delivery of the complete electrical services installation of this prestigious project. This included the supply and installation of the main electrical switchboard and associated power infrastructure, local distribution boards, lighting and emergency lighting and lighting control. The company also supplied and installed the UPS, data network, access control, CCTV, intruder alarm, disabled refuge, fire alarm, lightning protection, PA/AV control cabling and mechanical control cabling.

The scheme specification was for a new and flexible building, providing teaching and research facilities, with an area of 4,500m2 over four floors. Reusing an existing concrete framed structure, the design was extended to incorporate a student hub facility, computer laboratories, specialised laboratories, interactive lecturing space, project space and office accommodation. The building has also secured energy efficiency, sustainability and environmental strategies including targeted BREEAM ‘Very Good’. This project is one of many to have been delivered by JD McGeown Ltd as Queen’s University rolls out its 20-year £700million capital investment programme. It is, however, one of the first projects by JD McGeown Ltd to have implemented Building Information Modelling and the company is thrilled to have been part of the team working with O’Hare and McGovern, the

main contractor, led by architects Kennedy Fitzgerald. The project is another example of the high standards consistently delivered by JD McGeown. Since 1961, the company has steadily grown to become one of the most prominent electrical and mechanical engineering specialists and facilities management providers in Northern Ireland. The opening of a new office in Dublin is just one of a number of ways the company is marking its 55 years in business together with investments in new staff, a new-look website and training in Building Information Modelling (BIM) all placed alongside the development of new and existing partnerships. The company holds a series of accreditations including ISO 9001, 14001 and 18001 in quality, environment and H & S respectively and was the first Northern Ireland contractor to complete a SparkSafe project.

JD McGeown, Windsor Business Park, 16/18 Lower Windsor Avenue, Belfast, BT9 7DW T: 028 9068 1176 – E: info@jdmcg.co.uk www.jdmcg.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

DRYLINING AND PARTITIONS Multi-disciplinary approach by North West Drylining Ltd

orth West Drylining Ltd showcased the company’s multi-disciplinary approach at the impressive new Computer Sciences building for Queen’s University, Belfast. The project itself offered two distinct challenges, with the main element an innovative and modern facility while the refurbishment of two adjoining terrace houses at 14-16 Malone Road requiring more of a heritage approach. The scope of the work including wall lining systems/perforated plasterboards, metal stud wall partitions and acoustic systems. This included the impressive raft ceiling in the reception area of the former Bernard

Crossland Building as well as some decorative finishes in the adjoining terrace houses. North West Drylining Ltd, one of the largest drylining companies in Ireland, has been in the construction industry since 1981. Over the last 30+ years the company has continuously increased in size, and between office staff, direct employees and subcontract workers, it prides itself in holding together an efficient team of experienced professionals in their field.

“North West Drylining Ltd, one of the largest drylining companies in Ireland.”

North West Drylining Ltd, 288 Foreglen Road, Dungiven, BT47 4PJ T. 028 71338407 – E: info@nwdrylining.co.uk www.nwdrylining.co.uk

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER

Murdock’s – meeting customer demands

urdock Builder’s Merchants once again worked closely with O’Hare & McGovern to ensure that a project runs smoothly. This time it was the impressive Computer Sciences Building – formerly known as the Bernard Crossland Building – for Queen’s University. Located on the busy Malone Road, a stringent delivery timetable was in place to minimise disruption within the area. As well as supplying a wide range of day-to-day building materials to the main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern, Murdock’s also worked closely with a number of sub-contractors working on the project.

Aidy McAteer, Sales Representative, Civils & Architectural Division, commented, “With deadlines to be met on site, service is of the utmost importance to Murdock’s and our customer base. That is why this is one of the areas within our company that we view as a top priority. “Our customers can’t do their job without the proper materials so we pride ourselves on being a reliable partner. “From a logistical point of view this project offered a lot of challenges but with our partnership approach we were able to deliver. We are delighted to have played a role in its success an congratulate O’Hare & McGovern on a fantastic job.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

FLUSH DOORS AA Specialist Joinery opens the door to quality

A Specialist Joinery has a reputation for high standards and a commitment to quality and that was again on display at the new Computer Sciences building for Queen’s University. Once again teaming up with main contractor, O’Hare & McGovern, the respected joinery company supplied all the flush doors through this state-of-the-art facility. AA Joinery Ltd is a family-run business based near Randalstown. Set up in 1991, the company has grown both in reputation and in size, now employing 16 full-time staff. It specialises in the manufacture of customised frames, skirting, architraves and fire-resistant doors for building contractors for the commercial market, and its expertise extends to a wide range of buildings, including hotels,

schools, Marie Curie centres, churches and more. As the company’s expertise and reputation has grown, so too has its client base. AA Joinery is now in demand for jobs across Scotland and England. AA Specialist Joinery continues to evolve and the company recently invested in a new computerised panel saw and edge bander. The company’s attention-to-detail is combined with a policy of competitive pricing and an ability to work to deadlines, delivering on time and on budget.

“The company’s attention-todetail is combined with a policy of competitive pricing.”

AA Specialist Joinery, 15 Ballynacooley Road, Antrim, BT41 3NB T: 028 9447 3191 - F: 028 9447 8944 E: info@aajoineryltd.co.uk

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

JOINERY Another top class finish for Queen’s by DMS Hanna Carpentry & Joinery

MS was once again pleased to complete the refurbished Bernard Crossland building project to a high specification finish, working alongside O’Hare & McGovern’s site staff with in the specified schedule. The work consisted of First and Second fix joinery and the fitting of the door sets, metal doors and frames, architraves, door furniture and skirting throughout the building and to the profile of the stairs. At roof level, upstands were formed around the steelwork openings to take the new system of fitting modular

skylights which were also installed. Work was also carried out to the adjoining house Nos 14 and 16 Malone Road. Re-slating and lead work to the existing roofs and a complete Second Fix to both houses. The Bernard Crossland Building adds to another top finish for DMS Hanna, having worked on three previous jobs for Queen’s, with O’Hare & McGovern being the main contractor.

“The Bernard Crossland Building adds to another top finish for DMS Hanna.”

DMS Hanna, Zion 5 Ballykeel Road, Ballymartin, Kilkeel, County Down, BT34 4PL T: 028 4176 2004 – 07802838733 – 07764534577 - 07729456237 - F:028 4176 2004 E: d.m.hanna@hotmail.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

BUILDING MATERIALS SUPPLIER JP Corry’s diverse product range offers the highest quality

P Corry demonstrated the company’s diverse product range by playing an integral part in the supply chain for the new Computer Sciences Building at Queen’s University. While the builders’ merchant prides itself on offering customers a high level of choice, the common denominator with every product is quality. “We only work with leading manufacturers that meet the highest standards,” explained Neil McGeown, Springfield Road Branch Manager. “For this project we supplied specialist products from Rockwool, Kingspan, SAM, Velux and Marshall’s Paving – all wellknown and respected brands. “It was a pleasure to again be working

closely with the team from O’Hare & McGovern on another prestigious project. This project again demonstrates how we are able to meet the needs of contractors of all sizes, ranging from simple DIY jobs through to multi-million pound contracts.” Neil added, “Throughout our 200 year history we have worked on a number of projects at Queen’s University, so again it is great for us to be connected to such an important part of the city.”

“This project again demonstrates how we are able to meet the needs of contractors of all sizes.”

JP Corry, 648 Springfield Road, Belfast, BT12 7EH T: 028 9024 3661 - F: 028 9023 2123 Visit www.jpcorry.com to find your nearest branch

COMPUTER SCIENCES, BERNARD CROSSLAND BUILDING, QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

ROOFING Versatile finishes from Tandragee Roofing

andragee Roofing displayed the company’s versatility by installing no less than four different roofing types (all with tapered insulation) at the new Computer Sciences building for Queen’s University. The company installed a sedum grass, metal deck, felt, and asphalt roofs (from IKO) on the project in what was a complex project. David Laverty, Managing Director of Tandragee Roofing, explained, “Each roof required a lot of build-up layers before the final finish was applied. This included a Kingspan Envirodeck metal base, thermal reactive vapour control area, a self-adhesive vapour insulation and finally an Olympic thermaweld cap sheet, all supplied by Icopal. “The sedum roof was the most complicated aspect of the project, particularly as it was our first time installing this type of finish. Due to

space restrictions the sedum roof had to be cut on a Friday and then transported across from England to be installed on the Sunday. Time was of the essence to keep it alive but we are delighted with how smoothly it all ran in the end.” The extensive plant on one section of roof also put added time pressure on the team, as did the space restrictions. “We had to meet tight deadlines and, as we couldn’t have a crane on site all the time, we had to use it to get what we needed in place for that day and then manually move it as work progressed. It was all about working in partnership with O’Hare & McGovern and the other sub-contractors.” Tandragee Roofing continues to grow in stature and the company is currently working on its ever biggest project at the Ulster Hospital.

Tandragee Roofing, 142 Mullahead Road, Tandragee, BT62 2LD T: 028 3884 0576 www.tandrageeroofing.co.uk

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TRAFFIC AND SITE MANAGEMENT

JSP’S NEW TRAFFIC AND SITE MANAGEMENT CATALOGUE IS NOW AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD…

Download the new JSP catalogue

brand new catalogue featuring its latest range of traffic and site management products is now available from JSP – Europe’s leading manufacturer of quality road safety products. The 50-page catalogue contains detailed, helpful information about JSP’s full range of Traffic & Site Management products. JSP is the trusted choice for quality road safety products, with a devoted team committed to excellence and responsive to bespoke demands – listening to the company’s customers and consistently delivering promises. With over 50 years of experience in manufacturing, JSP provides customers with exceptional products and value added solutions. This is thanks to its market driven

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focus and best-in-class manufacturing. JSP’s dedicated research and development team has worked with Mira, ‘the UK’s only full scale aerodynamic wind tunnel’, to test and further develop the company’s road safety products. Working with Mira has enabled JSP to develop new products designed to offer the maximum wind stability possible. JSP offers a full range of best-in-class barrier systems with unrivalled strength and durability made in the UK from the strongest virgin materials available. JSP is so confident in the reliability of its barrier feet that the company offers the ‘SurefootTM Guarantee’-

offering replacements at no extra cost. A wide selection of cones, RoadBlocsTM, signs, lamps, verge posts, speed bumps and grit bins also are featured in the catalogue – all available with the JSP branding and in-mould labelling service. Committed to the environment, JSP operates bespoke recycling services with large customers and end users to help them achieve the ISO14001 environmental standard. Call 01993 826050 for your new catalogue now or visit www.jsp.co.uk to download now.

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RACKING SOLUTIONS

AUTUMN 2016 SEES THE RE-LAUNCH OF SIMPSON-STRONG-TIE’S UNIQUE RACKING SOLUTION FOR TIMBER FRAME STRUCTURES - NEW PRODUCTS, IMPROVED PERFORMANCE AND INCREASED AVAILABILITY…

Simpson Strong-Tie relaunches unique racking solution

ince the launch of Strong-Portal and Strong-Wall, more than 400 timber framed homes have benefitted from increased build flexibility in terms of wider openings (and more of them), yet with none of the issues surrounding racking resistance that goes with them. The benefits don’t stop there, with StrongPortal and Strong-Wall offering • • • • •

Easily integrated with the existing timber frame design. Secures directly to the foundation and adjacent timber frame panels. Easy to handle - no need for cranes or mechanical handling equipment. No additional framework required, simply connect to the adjacent elements. All fixings and adhesives are supplied with the system.

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The updated range features the all new Steel Strong-Portal, which can be attached to adjacent timber studs with ease, the Steel Strong-Wall has been modified to give increased performance and like the Steel-Strong-Portal, can be integrated into a standard timber frame design. Steel Strong-Portal comes in two sections (left and right) to create a reinforced opening up to 3.6 metres wide - useful for garages, patio doors for example. The Steel Strong-Wall is a single panel which can be added to a structure to reinforce the structure. Both are available as kits with all of the necessary fastenings and adhesives to complete the installation. The new catalogue ‘Racking Solutions for Timber Frame Buildings’ is available from Simpson Strong-Tie on request and can be downloaded at www.strongtie.co.uk

‘The Steel Strong-Wall has been modified to give increased performance and like the SteelStrong-Portal, can be integrated into a standard timber frame design.”

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SEALANTS

THE STRENGTH, FLEXIBILITY, SEALING AND MOUNTING QUALITY OF TEC 7 – AND THE NEW TEC7 PLUMB – KEEP CUSTOMERS COMING BACK…

Tried and trusted TEC 7

ec7 has become the Number 1 choice for the trade person and DIY enthusiasts alike because they know ‘it gets the job done first time, every time’ – even under water. Because of its overall strength, flexibility, sealing and mounting quality, customers know that Tec7 sticks to almost all building materials, including most plastics and, with each cartridge containing 310ml of product, they are getting better value compared to most other MS Polymer’s on the market. With customers expecting high quality from the Tec7 range of products, the new Tec7 Plumb, introduced last year as part of the range, is no exception. This relatively new product is a permanent fix to all heating system leaks. One can does 75 litres of water - enough to do a standard three-bedroom home or 10 to 12 standard radiators.

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Simple to use, the can comes with an applicator, making it easy to pour into any radiator. If you have an open heating system, no problem. Plumb7 is ideal for use in both open and closed heating systems. To see just how good Tec7 Plumb and the full range of products are, contact Contech Buildings Products on 00353 (0)1 6292963, simply log on to the website at www.tec7.ie or join the company on Facebook.

Customers choose Tec7 because it is well-renowned for being:

Better value Extra support Stronger Trusted

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NEWS

QPANI POLITICAL QUESTION TIME A GREAT SUCCESS

SEEING IS BELIEVING 2020 Architects has incorporated a new state-of-the-art Virtual Reality Suite into its new office premises in Ballymoney, to make the entire design experience as engaging and effortless as possible. Not only can clients visualise their new home, but they can also walk around and interact with it, helping them envisage how they will actually live in it. By transforming 3D CAD models into interactive walkthroughs, architects and clients can evaluate aesthetic and design alternatives in real time. The uniqueness of this initiative has led to 2020 Architects being announced finalists in the ‘One to Watch Company’ category

of the UK-wide, prestigious Construction Computing Awards 2016. Richard McKinney, Director of 2020 Architects, said, “If the client is choosing between options for interior finishes, they may instantly see multiple options in real time, and in varying lighting conditions. This latest technology will speed up the design process and ensure that customers are 100% happy with the concept before progressing, which will in turn minimise delays at the construction stage that often occur due to changes.” For further information, telephone 028 2766 7999, e-mail info@2020architects. co.uk or visit www.2020architects.co.uk

QPANI’s recent Political Question Time, held in the Seagoe Hotel, Portadown, was a great success. Attended by over 40 QPANI members, a panel of local MLAs gave their opinions on issues such as skills, infrastructure, Brexit and energy costs in Northern Ireland. On the topic of skills, the panel was united that more investment is needed in universities and centres of excellence for R&D, agreeing that many of the current skills shortages is due to a disconnect between schools, colleges, careers advisors and business. It was also felt that too many young people are going to university and not enough profile and value is being given to apprenticeships and learning a trade. Grave concern was voiced over the Apprenticeship Levy, which the panel viewed as a business tax. On infrastructure, the panel agreed that future capital budgets in Northern Ireland looked healthy, with a number of major road, school and health projects in the pipeline. It was unanimous over energy supply concerns and the need for the North South Interconnector to be built as soon as possible. For more information, visit www.qpani.org

SCAPE APPOINTS NEW REGIONAL BUSINESS MANAGER

ERRIGAL CONTRACTS’ APPRENTICESHIPS GO LIVE Sixteen apprentices have started an allnew course in Interior Systems (dry lining). The training programme, which is a partnership between Errigal Contracts and South West College, is the first accredited course in the South West region. Apprentices will gain valuable on-the-job experience whilst studying part-time for the industry-leading qualification. The initiative is being delivered through the Department for the Economy’s

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Apprenticeship NI programme that aims to provide young people with the opportunity to ‘earn while you learn’. The college is actively recruiting up to 100 apprenticeships over the next number of years and the second intake starts in early November. Applications are welcome from 16-23 year olds. For further information, contact Emma O’Hagan on 02866342309, e-mail Emma.O’Hagan@swc.ac.uk or visit www.swc.ac.uk

Public sector built environment specialist Scape Group has boosted its provision for clients in Northern Ireland with the appointment of its first dedicated regional business manager for the area. The appointment of highly experienced chartered building surveyor and project manager, Gavin Wallace, is part of Scape’s commitment to ensure local expertise is embedded into every project it delivers. Gavin’s role is to support clients at a strategic and operational level, providing guidance on procurement solutions through Scape’s suite of frameworks. For more information, visit www.scapegroup.co.uk

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

Tools & Workwear GET KITTED OUT WITH THE BEST SAFETY GEAR AND FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DRAPERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW MEASURING TAPE...

www.northernbuilder.co.uk

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TOOLS AND WORKWEAR

WORKWEAR AND SAFETY PRODUCTS

QUALITY AND CHOICE FROM WITH AN IMPRESSIVE PRODUCT RANGE ...

Get kitted out from head to toe at PJD Safety Supplies

et ready for autumn and winter with the complete range of PPE, workwear and safety products from PJD Safety Supplies. As a leading UK and all-Ireland supplier the company’s impressive range means you can literally get kitted out from head to toe, safe in the knowledge that PJD Safety Supplies only offers products that conform to, or exceed, the appropriate British and European legislation requirements. The company offers products from leading names as well as PJD Safety Supplies’ ownbrand Bodytech range, while customers can also avail of a branding/identity

service that allows you to personalise your workwear with your logo to provide a professional look. Choice and quality are clearly the maxims at PJD Safety Supplies, with the company supplying PPE, workwear and safety products to a wide range of industries ranging from construction and engineering through to the food, healthcare, pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors. As a specialist supplier, the company recognises the important role that Personal

Protective Equipment (PPE) plays in safeguarding your employees. That is why the expert team provides impartial and accurate information, helping you to make the right decisions on product choice. The product range on offer means that you will find a solution for working in even the most demanding of environments. For more information on the PJD Safety Supplies range, telephone 028 8772 2940, e-mail info@pjdsafetysupplies.com or visit www.pjdsafetaysupplies.com

PJD SAFETY SUPPLIES LTD ARE A LEADING SUPPLIER OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT WORKWEAR AND SAFETY PRODUCTS.

6 Goland Road, Ballygawley, Co. Tyrone. T: 028 8772 2940 info@pjdsafetysupplies.com www.pjdsafetysupplies.com

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NEW KANSAS BOOT DESIGNED FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY.

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TOOLS AND WORKWEAR

SAFETYCARE

Over 6,000 products to choose from at SafetyCare

afetyCare is celebrating its 23rd year of being one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of workwear, footwear, safety equipment and PPE. That’s over 23 years of helping and supporting over 1,000 local businesses of all sizes, big and small. It’s a combination of delivering high quality products with excellent customer service at affordable prices that keeps customers coming back. When it comes to branded clothing and items, SafetyCare has it covered. With an in-house team of experts offering embroidery and print, the company can quickly and efficiently fully brand your clothing. This

is complemented by a nextday delivery service, making SafetyCare the preferred supplier for your next workwear order. SafetyCare stocks a huge range of workwear and safety Equipment – with over 6,000 different styles, colours and sizes to choose from. That is why SafetyCare is confident that the company’s expert and friendly staff will be able to help and guide you to find the right solution. For more information and for a free, no obligation, quote call 028 9083 9300 or e-mail sales@safetycare.ie

“SafetyCare is confident that the company’s expert and friendly staff will be able to help and guide you to find the right solution.”

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TOOLS AND WORKWEAR

PRO-TEC WORKWEAR

Quality, value and choice from Pro-Tec PRO-TEC Workwear is a leading supplier of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), workwear, safety footwear and safety products. Pro-Tec Workwear offers a complete range of workwear, corporate and PPE to wholesalers, companies and individuals and is Northern Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier wholesale choice when it comes to Flexothane waterproof apparel, Engel Workwear and Mascot workwear clothing. As well as providing quality, value and choice, customer service is a top priority. From supplying the product, to corporate embroidery and heat press logos, Pro-Tec Workwear makes sure you are 100% satisfied.

As well as a dedicated salesperson, the company also operates its own retail shop, selling an extensive range of workwear and footwear. ProTec also stocks a wide range of everyday essential PPE including safety hats, ear and eye protection, gloves, masks, first aid kits, safety harnesses and safety signage. Delivery is available across the whole of Northern Ireland. T: 028 2766 6622 E: sales@protecwear.co.uk W: www.protecwear.co.uk

PROTEC WORKWEAR ARE A LEADING SUPPLIER OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE). WORKWEAR, SAFETY FOOTWEAR AND SAFETY PRODUCTS.

Tel: 028 2766 6622 Email: sales@protecwear.co.uk www.Protecwear.co.uk

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www.northernbuilder.co.uk

INTRODUCING

THE ULTIMATE WATERPROOFING MEMBRANE! FROM THE CREATORS OF

FOR YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST IN N. IRELAND AND DONEGAL. TEL: 028 9262 9999. FOR ALL OTHER ENQUIRIES TEL: 028 3083 4892 FOR FULL AUDIO VISUAL DEMONSTRATIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.ct1ltd.com

Partition and ceiling solutions

Units 5/6 Duncrue Ind Estate, Duncrue Road, Belfast, BT3 9BW T: 028 9077 7780 E: info@scsni.com