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SEPTEMBER 2025
House sales in Northern Ireland rose through July according to the latest Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) residential market survey, which follows a period of two consecutive months where sales were reported to have declined.
A net balance of 5% of NI surveyors reported that sales rose through the month of July. Although only marginally in positive territory, it is up from the -10% and -19% net balances that were seen in the previous two consecutive surveys.
And surveyors appear to be optimistic on the sales outlook too as a net balance of 60% of respondents expect sales to rise over the next three months.
Driving the rise in sales may have been the increase in demand that was seen through July. A net balance of 40% of surveyors in NI report that there was an increase in new buyer enquiries, which was the second highest balance seen across the UK after the North West.
Looking at supply, surveyors in NI report that new instructions to sell rose over the summer. A net balance of 40% of surveyors reported that there was an increase in supply, which is in line with what is being seen across other UK regions such as Scotland, the North West and the East Midlands.
When it comes to pricing, NI respondents note an upward trend once again. A net balance of 95% of NI respondents
reported a rise in house prices over the past three months. And this trend continues looking forward as a net balance of surveyors in NI anticipate that prices will increase over the next three months.
Samuel Dickey, RICS Northern Ireland Residential Property Spokesman, says: “The first half of 2025 was relatively steady for NI’s residential property market and it’s encouraging to see this continuing as we progress into the second half of the year. Whilst the most recent survey sees surveyors reporting a rise in supply coming to the market, we still do not have sufficient stock to meet the needs of the market. It is hoped that the recent easing of interest rates will support new buyers in the coming months.”
Commenting on the UK picture, RICS Chief Economist, Simon Rubinsohn, said: “The somewhat flatter tone to the feedback to the July RICS Residential Survey highlights ongoing challenges facing the housing market. Although interest rates were lowered at the latest Bank of England meeting, the split vote has raised doubts about both the timing and extent of further reductions. Meanwhile, uncertainty about the potential contents of the Chancellor’s autumn budget is also raising some concerns. Against this backdrop, respondents continue to report that the market remains particularly price sensitive at the present time. “
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The first in a series of Specify podcasts is now available to listeners. Specify’s regular columnists, Gerard Graham and Jonathan Payne talk to Duane McCreadie, the Project Director for Farrans-Sacyr JV for the construction of the new Grand Central Station in Belfast.
PAGE 10
BY
An Omagh-based construction firm has launched an Apprenticeship Academy in partnership with South West College. Representing a £1.5 million investment in skills training over the next five years from Anamore, one of the UK’s leading specialists in building remediation, the ‘Anamore Academy’ is a Higher-Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme.
PAGE 14
KEYLITE'S NEW MODULITE SYSTEM
PAGE 17
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons recently announced that work will commence on-site shortly for the Queen’s Parade project in Bangor. Speaking at a signing of legal agreements with partners at Parliament Buildings, Minister Lyons said: “I am delighted to announce that work on the much-awaited Queen’s Parade development scheme is set to commence later this month.
PAGE 18
Gerard Graham looks at the lack of female entrants at SkillBuild Northern Ireland, changes at the CIOB NI hub and the impressive growth reported by McAleer & Rushe.
The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation. We’re experts at matching both across the construction sector Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni
PAGE 20
THE MAKING OF MP SAFETY
PAGE 24
NEW HOME BUYERS FACE BEING PRICED OUT OF THE HOUSING MARKET
Paul McErlean, Director, Build Homes NI, which represents Northern Ireland’s largest house builders, has warned new home buyers and renters to expect higher costs and less choice amid the region’s escalating housing crisis.
PAGE 29
LYONS URGES TAKE-UP OF CLADDING SAFETY SCHEME TO PROTECT RESIDENTS
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons is encouraging applications to the Cladding Safety Scheme to improve the fire safety of high-rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland.
PAGE 32
WHERE HAVE ALL THE ESTIMATORS GONE?
BY JONATHAN PAYNE
PAGE 42
COURIER AND CONNECT: SMALL VANS WITH A BIG CAPACITY
Ford vans continue to top the commercial vehicle sales charts across Europe and they ensure their position by continually upgrading and developing the range. The latest updates to the Ford van range are the revamped Transit Connect and the new all electric Courier.
PAGE 46
SPECIFY TALKS TO RHONA QUINN, MANAGING DIRECTOR AT QMAC CONSTRUCTION LTD
Rhona Quinn tells us about her career and her job as Managing Director at QMAC Construction Ltd..
The right job can transform a person’s life and the right person can transform an organisation. We’re experts at matching both across the construction sector
Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni
Marine works have begun on the largest single capital investment project ever undertaken by Belfast Harbour, the development of a new deepwater terminal to facilitate increased cruise tourism and enable offshore wind energy.
The project will see the £90m construction of a new dual purpose deepwater quay which will be able to accommodate some of the world’s largest cruise vessels, while also expanding the port’s capacity for offshore wind turbine assembly and installation. As a Trust Port, Belfast Harbour is self-financing and invests all post-tax profits in developing the port and estate to benefit the city and region.
With 146 cruise vessels scheduled to berth at Belfast Harbour this year, Belfast is already the busiest cruise port on the island and second busiest cruise port in the UK. The investment will futureproof Belfast’s position as a leading city for cruise tourism. It will also enable the growth of the already significant contribution of cruise tourism to the regional economy, estimated at between £20m-£25m per year.
Graham Construction has been announced as the main contractor for the initial phase of the build. Stage one of the construction programme is expected to be delivered for the 2028 cruise season. Stage two of the build, anticipated by 2030, will further strengthen the infrastructure, so that the port can play a leading role in the assembly and installation of the next generation of floating offshore wind turbines.
This landmark investment is a key deliverable of Belfast Harbour’s Advance Regional Prosperity 2025-2029 strategy. Launched earlier this year, the strategy outlines Belfast Harbour’s plans to invest £208m in significant port improvements and £105m in the ongoing regeneration and development of the Harbour Estate and waterfront.
Chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners Dr. Theresa Donaldson said: “Having announced our ambitious new Advance Regional Prosperity strategy only a few months ago, it is exciting to be partnering
with Graham to commence work on the single biggest investment project in Belfast Harbour’s history.
Paul Scott, Graham Contracts Director, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Belfast Harbour to deliver this project, not only will it enhance Belfast’s position as leading cruise destination but will also play a crucial role in enabling the future of offshore wind energy in the region.”
“As the works commence, we will focus on working closely with key stakeholders and the local community delivering social value and creating impact for years to come.”
Health and Safety in construction industry is of paramount importance. It is not just a box ticking exercise or a legal requirement, but a necessity for companies to look after their workers. It is the combined responsibility of everyone involved on a building site – employers, workers, sub-contractors and suppliers.
The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) published statistics show the Construction industry is one of the most dangerous industries for fatalities, with the statistics of those recorded with both fatal and non-fatal injuries increasing each year. With such high stakes, it’s essential to understand who is responsible for health and safety at work in construction and maintaining Construction site safety at all times.
In 2022/23, there were 51 fatalities occurring in the construction industry, according to Construction News. Falls from height were the leading cause, accounting for 40 reported cases, and accidents involving being struck by moving vehicles or objects were also significant contributors. The construction industry consistently ranks among the most dangerous, with a rate of fatal injuries per 100,000 workers higher than the average for all industries.
In 2022/23 an estimated 561,000 construction workers sustained non-fatal injuries across the UK but only 60,645 employee non-fatal injuries were reported by employers.
Safety in construction remains one of the most important issues and thankfully Northern Ireland has some of the top specialist Health and Safety companies...
The first in a series of Specify podcasts is now available to listeners.
Specify’s regular columnists, Gerard Graham and Jonathan Payne talk to Duane McCreadie, the Project Director for Farrans-Sacyr JV for the construction of the new Grand Central Station in Belfast.
Gerard Graham FCIOB, is a past regional Chair of the CIOB, and is Principal of Gerard Graham Consulting while Jonathan Payne is the Managing Director of Incrementum, a chartered construction management consultancy that works closely with main contractors and subcontractors, helping them to develop and grow their businesses.
Jonathan is also the immediate past chair of the CIOB in Northern Ireland, he is a Trustee of the CIOB, as well as a Board Member of the CITB.
Topics covered in the podcast include Duane’s career to date, key projects he has worked on and his thoughts on how to make the construction industry more attractive to young people.
As well as these discussions, we also hear what he does in his spare time and any hobbies he has, as well as how the construction companies in NI are so successful in the London market.
CosyGroup has acquired familyrun independent building merchants J&W McCall Supplies Ltd for an undisclosed sum.
Headquartered in Downpatrick, Co Down, CosyGroup is the parent company of a wide range of construction outfits including CosyRoof, one of the UK’s leading conservatory roof conversion specialists. CosyGroup also works in the insulation sector, solar energy solutions and residential property development.
Established in 1957, J&W McCall Supplies Ltd provides building furnishings and
materials to local businesses and homeowners across Northern Ireland, operating from its three stores throughout Co Down, in Carryduff and Clough. J&W McCall Supplies currently employs 48 people, and following the acquisition, will increase CosyGroup’s total workforce to 63.
The acquisition is expected to bolster CosyGroup’s wider supply chain network, supporting other arms of the business such as CosySolar, CosyRoof, CosyInsulation, CosyDevelopments and KAP Properties. As a dedicated supplier
business, J&W McCall Supplies will continue to operate as a standalone company within CosyGroup, retaining its business name.
CosyGroup, which has seen unprecedented growth in demand for its services in recent years, is expected to continue expanding its business with further acquisition plans expected in the coming months.
Philip Polly, Owner of CosyGroup, said: “This marks the beginning of a new era for CosyGroup with the acquisition of J&W McCall Supplies Ltd. It is a privilege to welcome such a great team, who we have worked closely with over the years, into our growing business family.
Anthony Doyle, CosyGroup Managing Director added: “CosyGroup is fast becoming a big player in the construction industry and J&W McCall Supplies is a perfect fit for our business to develop. With quality service at the heart of everything we do at CosyGroup, we’re delighted to bolster our offering and minimise ongoing supply chain challenges for customers with the support of J&W McCall Supplies. This acquisition promotes our product security and will complement the work already taking place by both businesses.”
NI Water has recently awarded a major contract to global manufacturer Chemviron, a recognised leader in the activated carbon and reactivation industry.
This contract is worth over £8 million over a five-year period and will play an essential role in the water treatment process at 14 Water treatment Plants across all counties in NI.
Siobhan Sterling NI Water’s Water Quality Manager said: "NI Water is committed to the highest standards of drinking water quality throughout Northern Ireland, and we are delighted to recently award this major contract to Chemviron.
“NI Water treatment works use a multibarrier treatment approach to ensure that water is safe to drink at the customer tap. Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) filters can be part of this multi-barrier approach.
“Adsorption on activated carbon aids in the removal of pesticides and taste and odour compounds. To ensure the GAC media continues to perform effectively, the media must be periodically removed and either recycled by reactivation or replaced with Virgin Carbon.”
Ronan O’Neill has joined QMAC Construction as Business Development Manager.
Ronan, who is a Chartered Construction Manager as well as a member of the Northern Ireland committee of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), is an experienced professional who has extensive knowledge of the construction industry. He has worked for leading contractors in roles including Design Manager, Project Manager, and Project Engineer.
Rhona Quinn, Managing Director of QMAC Construction, commented, “As we plan for the growth of the company, we are delighted to welcome Ronan onboard. QMAC Construction has an existing strong portfolio of completed projects. Ronan will help widen the client base and develop the service offering. I have no doubt that Ronan will be an asset to the company and complement the existing strong workforce we already have”.
An Omagh-based construction firm has launched an Apprenticeship Academy in partnership with South West College.
Representing a £1.5 million investment in skills training over the next five years from Anamore, one of the UK’s leading specialists in building remediation, the ‘Anamore Academy’ is a Higher-Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme.
Over the next five years, the company intends to employ a minimum of 25 HLAs through the new skills initiative, with two HLA’s and one placement student already employed within the initial 2024 cohort.
The Anamore students will gain an Ulster University accredited Foundation Degree with the option of progressing onto further higher education qualifications.
The Academy, which will allow the students to ‘learn as they earn’ will focus primarily on construction qualifications, but also other expertise in HR, Accounting, Business Development, Health & Wellbeing and Administration.
This new initiative builds upon Anamore’s growth in recent years but also seeks to address the talent gap within Northern Ireland and the wider UK construction industry.
James McCallan Co-Founder at Anamore
said: “The building remediation sector is a niche industry within construction. PostGrenfell, we have seen a huge demand for our services across the UK and increasingly worldwide. This has placed even greater importance on the need for
a skilled team and we want to champion home-grown talent here in Northern Ireland, to give local students the practical and technical skills that will give them the foundations to succeed in their chosen career.”
Insulation manufacturer and installer, Energystore has officially launched the UK’s first aerogel-based injected insulation called Energystore Spacebead.
Designed for widescale adoption in domestic homebuilding, Spacebead combines EPS beads, aerogel and adhesive and is set to transform the construction industry with its benefits. The use of aerogels in construction has historically been limited to niche applications due to cost. However, Spacebead revolutionises the process with an industry-leading innovative approach. The patent pending injected cavity wall insulation system, Spacebead has 15% improved thermal conductivity compared to existing injected options, with a declared thermal conductivity of 0.029 W/mK.
This innovation provides significant design benefits to housebuilders in the UK and Ireland. The system is expected to enable English housebuilders to maintain
a 100mm cavity wall when the Future Homes Standard is implemented, delivering large construction cost savings. Housebuilders in the Republic of Ireland will also benefit as Spacebead is the only
injected insulation that meets the 0.18 U-Value backstop in a 150mm cavity wall.
Connor McCandless, Managing Director at energystore said: “Innovation and sustainability is at the core of everything we do at energystore. We are constantly working on new concepts and ideas to better the construction industry and bring advanced technology and processes where we can.”
Farrans Sacyr Joint Venture, the main contractors delivering Belfast Grand Central Station, have successfully reached 1 million hours on the main works package of the project without a health and safety incident as they passed 1,000 days since construction on the major infrastructure project began.
The new multi-modal Transport Hub was opened to the public by Translink in
September 2024, replacing the existing Europa and Great Victoria Street bus and rail stations.
Further regeneration of the area will be realised by Translink and partner developers, through the Weavers Cross, creating mixed use developments on lands around the transport hub to facilitate economic growth and urban regeneration.
The construction team has placed health
and safety as their top priority since starting on site. Over 2,500 people have been inducted on to the project. There have been over 12,500 training hours, over 600 tool box talks, 7,000 daily briefings, bi-annual safety stand downs and an entrance tunnel decorated to focus on site safety and ‘getting home safe every day’.
Duane McCreadie, project director for Farrans Sacyr, said: “We are proud to have delivered 1 million hours without a RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) event on the main works package of the project and this is a credit to everyone who has come on to our site. We all have a role to play in keeping our teams safe and making sure that we all get home to our families every evening.
“To ensure a culture of safety we tried to be innovative in our approach with a focus on behaviour safety awareness initiatives, seasonal campaigns, videos and timely advice and guidance. We also wanted to focus on wellbeing and mental health with regular spin and exercise classes on site, free health screenings and weekly fruit bowls. We have two mental health first aiders on site and we welcomed charitable organisations such as Lighthouse in to present to our team.”
McAleer & Rushe has grown its turnover by 12.6% in 2024 to £491m with pre-tax profits rising by 46% to £16m supported by a growing pipeline of largescale schemes across its UK operations.
McAleer & Rushe has continued to perform strongly and expects its turnover to reach £550m in 2025. This controlled growth for the company saw its cash at bank by the end of 2024 reach £71m up from £53.1m the previous year, in line with net profits.
Notable projects secured by McAleer & Rushe in 2024 include a £225m residential project at Bermondsey, a £110m PBSA scheme at Crutched Friars, London, the £40m Croke Park hotel in Dublin and a £80m later living scheme in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
The growth of McAleer & Rushe is underpinned by its commitment to longterm partnerships, retaining and developing its highly experienced workforce, and a focus on ESG principles.
Eamonn Laverty, Group Chief Executive, commented, “Our latest construction results reflect our position as a trusted and competitive delivery partner, driven by sustained activity across the residential, student accommodation, office, and hotel sectors. We have seen a notable uplift in
the build-to-rent and private sale markets, while 2024 has also marked growth in the later living sector, a strategic area of opportunity for the business going forward.”
Investing in their London headquarters, McAleer & Rushe have commenced an extension and refurbishment of their office at Drury Lane, Covent Garden, aiming to transform it into a modern, energy-efficient Grade A office building.
The company has also made long-term changes and implemented targeted measures to become more sustainable, including a pledge to become a Net Zero business by 2045. Balancing commercial success with environmental responsibility, McAleer & Rushe has built a comprehensive ESG framework, ensuring they deliver low-impact, high-performance buildings.
Graham has been selected to deliver the new Ballycastle Leisure Centre. The new project will be jointly funded through the UK Government and the Council and will see just over £16 million invested to provide high-quality fitness and recreational facilities for the local community.
Located at Quay Road, Ballycastle, the project involves the construction of a brand-new leisure centre on the site of a former sports pitch. The development will replace an existing 3G sports pitch with modern, purpose-built facilities, including a 25-metre, four-lane swimming pool, gym, large studio, splash area with spa features, a bouldering wall, outdoor pump
track, off-road running/walking trail, accessible play park, and changing and reception facilities. Completion is scheduled for December 2026.
Designed by Hall Black Douglas, the centre will be a benchmark in sustainable design, achieving Net Zero Carbon in operation and incorporating BREEAM and Passivhaus principles. To further its sustainability credentials, the project will feature solar photovoltaic panels on the roof and a solar carport, generating over 205,000 kWh of renewable energy annually.
Jonathan Hall, Managing Director at Graham said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council to bring this much-needed facility to Ballycastle. Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that enhances the local area while aligning with sustainability objectives.”
Arc21 has welcomed the submission of updated Further Environmental Information (FEI) to its planning application for modern residual waste treatment facilities at Hightown Quarry, Mallusk which will now allow a new planning decision to be made.
This submission of updated information brings the Environmental Statement Chapters up to date so as to allow the statutory consultees to review them and the planning authority (the Department for Infrastructure Strategic Planning and the DfI Minister) to formulate a recommendation and reach a decision whether to refuse planning permission or to consent to the proposed development.
The submission of the updated information supporting the proposed development of residual waste treatment facilities at Hightown Quarry means the public will now be able to see the full details of the proposals on the official
planning portal and express their views.
Having been in planning for over ten years, reaching a robust planning determination under the present planning legal framework is essential and following this process a parallel public procurement still has to be concluded. In terms of completing these processes, following a planning determination arc21’s constituent councils will then need to work through their own governance arrangements to determine whether to commit their residual waste arisings in a contract that would result in the proposed facilities being built out.
Speaking about this milestone Tim Walker, arc21’s Acting Chief Executive said: “The need for proposed development has not changed. The absence of modern residual waste treatment infrastructure in Northern Ireland is at odds with what’s happened elsewhere in the UK and Ireland and across Europe. As landfill sites close and
the recycling targets for councils increase, the absence of facilities such as those proposed for Hightown Quarry is high risk. In seeking to provide continuation of waste management services, arc21’s councils have put in place arrangements using treatment infrastructure overseas.
“While this provides short-term relief, it relies upon shipping the majority of our black bin waste long distances at a time when there is an increasing focus upon energy security, recycling, the impact of carbon emissions and the prospect of national policy or foreign taxes that could limit such arrangements. Exporting this resource also means it is not available to contribute to the development of a local Circular Economy or to provide heat and/or power for local residents and businesses. Opportunities such as this need to be grasped as we strive to modernise our economy and in reaching greenhouse gas emissions targets .”
Uform has announced a new collaboration with ArtiCAD, aimed at providing new training and development opportunities for retailers who are part of its STORI Partner Programme.
This initiative is part of the STORI Learning Hub - a resource library designed to equip
Keylite Roof Windows has introduced the ModuLite system, a modern alternative to traditional in-roof dormers, designed to enhance safety for contractors working at height on busy housing developments.
Unlike conventional dormers, ModuLite is a prefabricated modular system, built in a factory-controlled environment and delivered directly to site. Installers can assemble the unit at ground level before craning it into position, significantly reducing time working at height and improving overall site safety.
Developed in partnership with Keylite’s sister company Smartroof, the ModuLite system is compatible with roof pitches from 10 to 75 degrees and features two Keylite Top Hung roof windows combined with an insulated timber upstand. This design increases natural daylight by up to 25 per cent compared to standard dormers, creating brighter, more energy-efficient interiors.
Positioned higher than a standard Keylite roof window, the ModuLite system not only provides increased headroom – an appealing feature for homeowners – but also enhances safety. ModuLite is engineered to enhance site logistics, boost energy efficiency and deliver significant cost and time savings. A single lorry can transport up to 24 ModuLite units, substantially reducing transportation costs and site storage
webinar sessions, exploring new topics, and receiving valuable demonstrations, followed by interactive Q&A sessions.
Commenting on the new collaboration, STORI Brand Manager Shaunagh Devlin says, “Our goal is to empower our programme partners with expert-led training and support that is specifically tailored to aid them in maximising sales and strengthening their position in the marketplace.
Approved and Premium retailers associated with the STORI end consumer brand with industry-leading tools and knowledge.
As part of a ‘How-To series’ hosted by ArtiCAD in partnership with Uform, the training will offer retailers and designers the opportunity to engage in in-depth
Recognising the diverse needs of our retailers, the new and evolving STORI Learning Hub will cover essential areas, including sales and marketing techniques, product training, and current market trends, all designed to help them succeed.
ArtiCAD Enterprise Account Manager Rachel Partridge adds, "We’re thrilled to partner with Uform on this exciting new training and development initiative.
At ArtiCAD, we’re passionate about empowering designers and retailers with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.”
requirements while minimising the risk of damage in transit.
The system’s pre-insulated design improves thermal performance, reducing heat loss and supporting the
development of low-energy homes. ModuLite exceeds Part L requirements and aligns with the Future Homes Standard (FHS) 2025, offering low Uvalues for improved energy efficiency.
The Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) has awarded the Liam McCormick Prize for Northern Ireland’s Building of the Year to the new Queen’s Business School Student Hub beside Riddel Hall on the Stranmillis Road in Belfast.
It was one of five projects to receive an RSUA Design Award 2025, all of which will now be in the running for a UK-wide RIBA award for architecture.
The centre, designed for Queen’s University Belfast by TODD Architects, joins a list of the finest buildings in Northern Ireland to have won the prize which includes the Ulster University Belfast Campus, the Lyric Theatre and Giant’s Causeway visitor centre.
The judges said, “The new Student Hub at Queen’s Business School is an outstanding achievement in holistic design, skilfully responding to a sensitive site, a complex brief and Queen’s University’s sustainability ambition.”
Situated within the university’s south Belfast campus, the hub stands between the Grade B1 listed Riddel Hall and enclosing mature woodlands of the Stranmillis Conservation Area.
Four other buildings picked up awards from a shortlist of seven. Light House by McGonigle McGrath in Holywood was named Northern Ireland’s House of the Year. This is the fourth year in a row the practice has won the accolade but the first time the winner has been a re-use and extend project.
Silver Bark House outside Hillsborough by Marshall McCann Architects was awarded the Sustainability Award for its ambitious reduction of operational energy requirements and for keeping the embodied carbon from its construction to an absolute minimum.
Another Queen’s University Belfast building designed by Hawkins\Brown and RPP Architects won a Design Award. One Elmwood Student Centre replaced the 1960’s student’s union with a multipurpose vibrant space for students in a prominent location in the city directly across from the University’s main building. For their work on both award winning
buildings, Queen’s University was named as Northern Ireland’s Client of the Year.
The final winner was McGurk Architects for its regeneration of New Gate Arts and Culture Centre in Derry which stands on a corner just outside the city’s historic walls.
The RSUA Design Awards ceremony took place in the Ulster University Belfast Campus, designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios with McAdam Design, Scott Tallon Walker and White Ink Architects, which won the Liam McCormick Prize for Northern Ireland’s Building of the Year in 2024. The Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons, presented the top prize to TODD Architects.
During the ceremony, Katie Stringer, architect at Belfast practice Studio idir, was named the inaugural RSUA Rising Star. This award was established to recognise the significant and often unseen contribution made by architects in the early stages of their career. The judges commended the ‘combination of creative excellence, leadership, and community engagement’ that Katie has already demonstrated in her short career.
Education Minister Paul Givan has cut the sod on a major capital project to provide a new school building for Strangford Integrated College (IC) in Carrowdore.
The sod-cutting formally marks the commencement of construction on the new school accommodation, in an investment of £38 million by the Department of Education.
Speaking at the Strangford IC site, the Minister said: “It is wonderful to be here today to see first hand the progress that has been made on the new school building. The significance of this £38 million investment will be reflected in the many benefits it will deliver for pupils, families and staff and the wider community.
“This major project will provide modern new facilities that will support the teaching and learning needs of the pupils for many years to come and create an environment that helps them to thrive.”
AECOM are the Integrated Consultant Team on the project, while Felix O’Hare & Co were appointed to carry out the construction works which are due to complete in 2027.
The Education Minister also cut the first sod on a £4.9million project at Kilronan School, Magherafelt. The School Enhancement Programme (SEP) project will deliver a single storey extension with new specialist classrooms, social areas
and support accommodation.
Welcoming the start of the project at a sod cutting ceremony, Paul Givan said:
“This is an exciting day for everyone at Kilronan, marking the start of a very important programme of construction.
“The investment of nearly £5million will deliver many benefits for pupils, school staff and local families. This project will
Strangford Integrated College
provide modern facilities which will help children and young people at Kilronan to grow, thrive, learn and achieve their full potential.”
Construction is due to be completed in late summer 2026.
The Minister continued: “This project marks the first of 10 special school SEP projects to proceed to construction and represents my firm commitment to delivering quality accommodation for children and young people with special educational needs.”
Isherwood and Ellis are the Integrated Consultant Team for the project. Bell Contracts & Co. Ltd. has been appointed to carry out the construction works.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons recently announced that work will commence on-site shortly for the Queen’s Parade project in Bangor.
Speaking at a signing of legal agreements with partners at Parliament Buildings, Minister Lyons said: “I am delighted to announce that work on the much-awaited Queen’s Parade development scheme is set to commence later this month. I wish to put on record my thanks to all the officials in my department whose hard work and commitment have made it possible for this important project to begin”
“After years of expectation, this scheme will be transformational for Bangor.”
“When combined with the substantial £72.8m investment in Bangor’s Waterfront through the Belfast Region City Deal, this is the start of a bright future for the city. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have for years to come.
The Minister added: “Projects of this nature are extremely complex, and I would like to convey my appreciation to all of our partners including Ards and North Down Borough Council, in
particular the Mayor, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, colleagues in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Bangor Marine and the people of Bangor for their tireless support. This is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.”
Mayor of Ards and North Down Borough Council, Alistair Cathcart said “As Mayor and as a Bangorian, I am very pleased that we have now cleared the final legal complexities to enable work to start on Marine Gardens in June. This is an important and positive milestone to recognise, and I would add my thanks to all those involved in the negotiations for their hard work and dedication to the process.
"However, like many Bangor residents I will only be fully satisfied when there are ‘diggers on site’. The Bangor Marine contractors need some time to mobilise now that all agreements are in place, but I will be pushing for that work to start as soon as possible.
"Bangor has been waiting for this for a long time and deserves both the investment and the regenerative potential that it will release for the city. I hope residents and business will be reassured by the Minister’s update and engage
positively with the scheme when work on site begins in the coming weeks”.
Bangor Marine secured UK Government Funding of £9.8m for the Marine Gardens public realm element of the Queen’s Parade regeneration project, which will include a new play park, two pavilions, kiosks with food and beverage offerings, an events space, and associated landscaping. Bangor Marine aims to have construction completed on this part by July 2026.
Aran Blackbourne of Bangor Marine Ltd said, "We are delighted that all the legal documents are now agreed and we can now confidently move forward with the Queen’s Parade redevelopment project with Oakland Holdings as our joint venture partner.”
"We look forward to working with all parties to deliver this very exciting and important regeneration scheme for Bangor.”
When the entire project has completed, the Queen’s Parade development will include new homes, a hotel, offices, a market plaza, retail, cafes and restaurants, bringing much needed vibrancy and reconnecting the city to the waterfront once again.:
Commentary by Gerard Graham
I attended the SkillBuild Northern Ireland regional finals in Downpatrick on 20 May 2025. The event, which was organised by the Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) in partnership with South Eastern Regional College (SERC), saw hundreds of competitors compete in various trade categories.
Two things caught my attention; one was that the event was well organised and showcased so many talented people demonstrating their skills. The second was the lack of female entrants. The one female joiner was doing excellent work. It’s just a shame there were not more female candidates. I think there is some really good work going on in the industry to help change this, particularly the work of the new Construction Futures initiative. We just need more of it.
I also think more could be done to market such events to young people to develop wider awareness of the exciting and well-paid opportunities available in the construction industry.
Congratulations to Jonathan Payne who has been appointed as a Trustee of the CIOB. Jonathan has basically become a NonExecutive Director of the Institute on a three-year term. He will join Noel McKee on the Board. It is good to see two local construction professionals sitting on the Board of what is the world's largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership.
Yvonne Conway from Woodvale, who I would regard as an expert in social value delivery, now steps up as Chair of the Northern Ireland committee. Incidentally, the CIOB’s members’ forum annual event is being hosted during the last week of June in Belfast. This is great for the city as industry leaders from across the world will be in attendance.
Growth from McAleer & Rushe
I was impressed that McAleer & Rushe had four finalists including a silver medallist in the ‘Construction Manager of the Year’ category at this year’s CIOB awards event in London. I see the company grew its turnover by 12.6% in 2024 to £491m with pre-tax profits rising by 46% to £16m. On my last visit to London, I noticed their logo on various high-profile sites. McAleer & Rushe is certainly a trailblazer!
I had the pleasure of recently being invited to present to a class of MSc students at Queen’s University. As part of the session, the students had to work as part of a team to prepare and present a mock bid proposal for a large construction project. I have said it before and I will say it again, the ability to present in front of a large group of people is a key skill. Better than that, I remember reading in a personal development book that it is the most difficult thing in the world to do.
Well done to the students who stood up and presented to the
panel of judges. Standing in front of unfamiliar people, trying to be engaging and knowledgeable, whilst presenting using a professional yet relaxed demeanour is tricky to say the least. They might not have realised it at the time but learning how to present will be a skill that will help them and give them an advantage in their future careers. Well done to all involved.
There are whispers among contractors that there are less projects in the market to price. Most contractors I know are all busy. I recently had a coffee with Colin Logan who manages the design process and appointment of contractors for many small to medium size projects. Colin has experienced a recent slowdown. It could be a short-term result of current the macro-level risks. As always, time will tell.
Gerard Graham FCIOB, is a past regional Chair of the CIOB, and is Principal of Gerard Graham Consulting.
Web: www.gerardgraham.co.uk
Installers are faced with the challenge of maintaining cavity barrier integrity when passing services under raised access floors. Through its distribution partners in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, AIM –Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing is offering a new technical solution, combining its Raised Access Floor Barrier (RAFB) with Rockwool Ablative Batts to provide a tested, cost-effective solution. RAFBs prevent the passage of flame and smoke through underfloor cavities for at
least the period of fire rating specified. However, passing services, through the RAFB itself can compromise the barrier’s vital primary function.
Now, AIM provides installers, specifiers, fire consultants and RAF system holders with a solution. When penetration is required to pass services through the AIM RAFB, two Rockwool FirePro® Coated Batts, the same height as the underfloor cavity, are placed on either side of the barrier. The services are passed through both the RAFB and ablative batts with any small
gaps around the penetrating component filled with Rockwool FirePro® Acoustic Sealant, pipe sleeves and pipe closers.
The AIM RAFB is tested to BS EN 1366-4 and the principles of TR31 and can provide up to 120 minutes integrity and insulation. The addition of Rockwool Ablative Batts, to allow services to penetrate the barrier, does not denigrate or reduce the overall fire resistance of the AIM RAFB.
Without this assessment, the installer would need to seek approval from a competent person, such as a fire engineer, to run services through the RAFB or, which is most common, they replace the whole barrier with a full run of Ablative Batt, which is an expensive response.
An additional advantage of AIM’s new solution is that the services do not need to be installed as the barrier is installed. The Ablative Batt and services can be installed at a later date providing a retrofit solution. AIM sells the Rockwool Ablative Batt along with the AIM RAFB, but installers can also source the batt from their usual sources.
The AIM RAFB datasheet is available at: https://www.aimlimited.co.uk/solutions/ raised-access-floor-barrier/
How Paul McParland built one of the UK and Ireland’s most trusted health and safety consultancies - from the ground up.
In the high-risk, high-pressure world of construction, health and safety often plays the role of the unwanted guest — necessary, but resented. Yet for Paul McParland, founder of MP Safety, it’s never been a box to tick. It’s a mindset. A culture. A calling born not from textbooks or boardrooms, but from lived experience on the tools.
Paul’s journey into safety wasn’t straightforward. Nor was it planned. But it’s precisely that winding path — from joinery to plant machinery, from demolition to marine projects — that gives him an edge few in the industry can match.
Raised in Northern Ireland at a time when career options were narrow, Paul describes his early prospects plainly: “You either went to college or went into construction. It was that black and white.” He chose the latter, training as a joiner and later taking on roles in plant operation and haulage. By his twenties, he’d already worn more hats than most would in a lifetime — but still hadn’t found the right fit.
It took a serious motorbike accident in 2008 to spark a change in direction. Left
with lasting injuries, Paul knew he needed a new path — one that could draw on his experience while respecting his limitations.
The turning point came during a stint in Australia in 2011, where he witnessed a health and safety culture that was far more rigorous — and respected — than what he was used to back home. “At first it felt like a hindrance,” he recalls, “but then I saw the strategy behind it — the professionalism. That opened my eyes.”
A close friend working in international H&S consultancy helped connect the dots. Paul returned home with a new mission.
The Birth of MP Safety
Back in Northern Ireland and already deep in his H&S career a subcontractor offered him two days a week for safety support. “That was it. I went for it — fully dependent on that first invoice being paid.”
It was a leap of faith that paid off. MP Safety was born.
Paul did what he knew best: got to work. He knocked on doors, introduced himself to contractors, and relied on that allimportant commodity in the trades — reputation. “It was just good oldfashioned legwork. No shortcuts.”
Word spread. Contracts grew. And so did the business.
From its humble beginnings, MP Safety has grown into a multi-service provider, offering consultancy, training, EHS staff across the UK and Europe, and full recruitment support for health and safety roles. But it’s the company’s human-first approach that sets it apart.
“We’re not a faceless consultancy. We’re the people you can phone direct. The ones who understand your site, your pressures, your reality,” Paul explains.
And that understanding is rooted in Paul’s own experience. He’s worked on sites, operated the machines, stood in the boots. That’s why his advice carries weight — because it’s practical, not preachy.
“You can have all the qualifications in the world, but if you don’t understand the process on-site, you’re not in the best position to help. Our job is to translate legislation into something meaningful, something that helps people go home safe.”
Continuous learning is a core value. MP Safety isn’t content with outdated handbooks. The team are constantly refreshing their knowledge — whether it’s a new regulation, a best practice, or a lesson learned on-site.
For Paul, the proudest part of his journey isn’t personal success. It’s building a team that shares the same values. “Cahal, our operations director, has played a huge role in getting us to where we are now. It’s a collective effort.”
MP Safety has fostered a culture where staff feel empowered, confident, and comfortable. “Our team has input into what they would like to wear. When you look good and feel good, you do good work. That’s the ethos.”
A Clear-Eyed View on the Sector
When asked about the construction landscape in Northern Ireland, Paul is frank. “The landscape has improved and there are a few large projects however, there’s just not the same momentum or investment you see in places like Dublin. We’re still waiting for a real lift.”
He believes there needs to be stronger incentives to encourage growth and
international investment — particularly in infrastructure and large-scale development.
But he also highlights a more pressing issue: the gap in safety standards for small-to-medium builders. “On the large scale developments, such as data and pharma projects safety is top-tier. But it’s the low budget and poorly priced projects where the risks are highest. Rising costs mean safety is often the first thing cut, and that’s dangerous.”
Paul is calling for support mechanisms that don’t just penalise poor practice but help embed safety into the DNA of every project, big or small.
A Message for the Next Generation
With trades often overshadowed by digital careers and social media stardom, Paul has a clear message for young people: construction is still a powerful, rewarding path. “It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. The pride, the pay, the progression — it’s all there. You just need to stick it out.”
He’s passionate about changing the narrative and giving young people a reason to consider a career in the industry that built him.
Man Behind the High Vis
For all his caution on-site, Paul has a surprising passion: “I’m a total adrenaline junkie and petrol head,” he laughs. “It’s probably not what you’d expect from someone who works in safety.”
But perhaps that’s the key. Paul understands risk — which means he respects it. That understanding, forged in every trade and on every site, is what makes MP Safety what it is today: a grounded, genuine, and trusted voice in a sector that can’t afford to get it wrong.
From design and specification to fire certification, doorways maintains a meticulous approach to traceability and compliance for projects of all sizes.
With over 50 years’ experience in specifying and supplying doors, Doorways understands the changing landscape of the construction sector better than any other supplier.
With a shortage of skilled labour on NI sites the introduction of doorsets makes economic sense to builders across the province. Doorways is well placed to service this growing demand from their manufacturing facility located in Belfast.
Door-sets are convenient and economical for residential projects plus Doorways are ISO 9001:2015 and Certifier accredited to supply fire door sets to the commercial sector.
Doorways have supplied door-sets to an array of different projects including four hundred door-sets for the Ebrington Hotel in Derry/Londonderry and most recently the new apartment block redevelopment of the King’s Hall site in Belfast.
Certification covers the complete fire door set. Doors are pre hung in frames with the appropriate smoke seals, door hinges and hardware to comply with BS EN12519 regulations.
Different options are available tailored to size and specification to meet fire regulation and acoustic requirements. Doorways recommends that designers are involved at the preliminary stages of the project to select from a vast array of veneer, foil, and laminate options.
Once the order is confirmed a delivery schedule of materials is provided in line with the project timeline.
As the largest door distributor in Northern Ireland, Doorways has established strong relationships with leading manufacturers and imports its own range of door designs.
The company’s four core principals, quality, choice, and service are incorporated into the approach for each project and the company refuses to compromise on quality no matter what sector it supplies to in an ever-changing industry.
Phil McCrorie, Sales Manager at Doorways says, “Our priority is, whatever the size or type of construction project is to support the contracts design and site team by making sure we are meeting the client’s specifications, fire certification and budget requirements.
Build Homes NI, which represents Northern Ireland’s largest house builders, has warned new home buyers and renters to expect higher costs and less choice amid the region’s escalating housing crisis.
Despite record levels of homelessness in Northern Ireland, house building has fallen to a historically low level. This is primarily due to a chronic lack of investment in wastewater infrastructure which is making it increasingly difficult to connect new homes to the sewerage network.
With a decreasing supply of suitable sites, Northern Ireland’s 11 largest house builders have confirmed that they expect the overall number of approved housing units in their development pipelines to decrease, some by up to 30% compared to recent years.
The warning was included in Build Homes NI’s response to the Department for Infrastructure’s consultation on . The group
described the proposed contribution as a new home buyers’ tax that would further reduce housing supply, increase costs and help price new buyers out of the market.
Paul McErlean, Director, Build Homes NI, said: “Northern Ireland has been failing to build enough homes for almost 20 years. With housing supply falling and demand increasing, homelessness has soared to record levels and annual rent increases are now among the highest in the UK.
“This is due largely to Northern Ireland’s failing wastewater infrastructure, caused by the NI Executive’s inability to fund NI Water to the level recommended independently by the Utility Regulator.
“NI Water is now warning that it may not have enough funds to enhance its clean water assets and that Northern Ireland could be facing a permanent wastewater crisis. This is calamitous, not just for those trying to get on the housing ladder but also for our environment which is being
increasingly polluted by raw sewage from an overloaded wastewater network.”
The Department for Infrastructure’s consultation is seeking views on proposals to introduce a ‘Developers Contribution’ to be levied on new housing. The stated purpose of the payment is to help “fund necessary improvements” to Northern Ireland’s wastewater infrastructure and facilitate more house connections. The consultation acknowledges that the contributions will not address the scale of the wastewater funding crisis.
According to Build Homes NI, housebuilding costs over the past decade, including substantial contributions to related infrastructure, have increased by 40% while margins have fallen by 20%. With no capacity left to absorb further costs Build Homes NI is warning that the likelihood is that the cost of the levy will be passed on in its entirety to new home buyers.
Paul McErlean, Director, Build Homes NI
The group also expressed concerns that the levy will distort the housing market. The charge would make lower priced starter homes increasingly unaffordable to build and encourage builders to focus instead on more expensive higher-end private developments, primarily in the Greater Belfast area, where there is more scope for buyers to pay the additional cost.
Build Homes NI warned that the increasing challenge of house building in Northern Ireland is forcing its members to begin looking at alternative opportunities on sites in Great Britain and Ireland.
Mr McErlean added: “Bringing Northern Ireland’s wastewater infrastructure up to modern standards will cost billions and take years to deliver. This is a system-wide failure which requires a system-wide solution from the Northern Ireland Executive. The debate around ‘Developer Contributions’ is a distraction from the real issue of how to fund NI Water properly.
“Apart from lacking basic information such as how much the proposed levy will be, the consultation is detached from economic realities.
“At a time when we need to dramatically increase the number of houses being built, taxing new houses will reduce rather than increase supply by making them more expensive. This is totally at odds with the Executive’s belief that good homes are a “basic right”11 NI Executive Programme for Government 2024-27 (pg 43).
“Wastewater is a civic good that benefits all of society. The entire premise of the consultation - focussing solely on new home buyers - is flawed and regressive. It is deeply unfair that new homebuyers who tend to be younger and on lower incomes will be expected to pay a de facto water tax for infrastructure that everyone benefits from.
“We ask the Northern Ireland Executive to urgently commission an expert-review of alternative funding and governance arrangements for NI Water as requested by the (March 2024) and accept the conclusion of the that NI Water’s funding model isn’t fit for purpose.”
Build Homes NI also argued that as part of the solution to the wastewater crisis the Executive should be encouraging rather than discouraging new house building. Unlike older housing stock which relies on combined water sewage connections, new housing developments use less fresh water and relieve pressure on wastewater treatment plants by redirecting stormwater away from them.
By Mark Wade, Hays
While the construction industry doesn’t ever really slow down in the summer the way it might have in years gone by, we definitely still see a bit of a surge when it comes to recruitment in the sector at this time of year.
As the natural break provided by summer holidays ends and people start to consider their options for the new calendar year, it is noticeable that in September we see both more hiring activity and applications in construction.
I was encouraged to see that the FMB’s latest SME State of Trade Survey shows that all key measures of performance in the sector were up in the first half of this year.
The survey, which for the first time has been delivered in collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) monitors key indicators and predicts future short-term developments for micro and SME building firms, which make up much of the industry in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.
These key indicators include workloads, enquiries and employment and the latest report shows that all regions and nations recorded increases, with workloads in Northern Ireland up 36% compared with the previous six months and enquiries about new work increasing a massive 64% in NI.
While every major sector saw growth, the rise in workloads and enquiries was driven by a jump in house building workloads and
repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) projects.
Gavin McGuire, director of FMB in Northern Ireland says the positive feedback from the industry conveys a sense of cautious optimism in the sector.
“Certainly, in looking back over the last decade, those figures represent some good news and green shoots particularly for the RMI market here. It will be interesting to see if those enquiries and workloads can keep rolling out throughout the rest of 2025 and see that optimism become a reality,” he said.
One of the big challenges, which I’ve touched on many times in my Specify articles, is that of skills shortages. While it is not a new problem, it is interesting to see in the latest survey focusing exclusively on small and medium-sized firms throughout the construction sector –458 across the UK – that the issue remains serious.
The figures showed a hugely encouraging 39% increase in employment. However, around a third of companies also reported they were still finding it hard to recruit skilled trades like carpenters, roofers and plumbers.
Almost two thirds have found it hard to hire staff with knowledge of the new building safety regime and almost as many said it was difficult to find people with skills in modern sustainable building practices and new technologies.
Most tellingly, the survey revealed that over 60% of firms were affected by skilled
labour shortages, resulting in job delays for nearly half of them and cancellations for almost a quarter.
“Those are figures which help us all focus the mind towards improving skills and recruitment,” says Gavin McGuire.
“With positive figures, comes a realisation for the contractors trying to deliver those projects. FMB, continue to work with our industry partners and key stakeholders to help provide the people to deliver.
“Viable and supportive programs need to be in place for the many SME’s who are sacrificing time and resources to help train the next generation of staff. As well as provide the help to upskill existing workforces as the industry adapts to new legislation and changes.”
From our work with FMB, CIOB and the other industry representative groups we are well aware of the other challenges facing construction companies at present, including increased materials costs, new legislation, slow planning processes and difficulties getting payment.
But with housebuilding in Northern Ireland seeing its busiest quarter in seven years in the second quarter of 2025, there are also reasons to be upbeat.
Over half of the construction businesses surveyed by FMB and CIOB said they have a positive outlook for the second half of 2025 and the majority of the rest being neutral in their outlook.
It’s clear the industry remains resilient and adaptable to a changing market.
Combining high visibility and 360º reflectivity with metatarsal protection - plus a distinctive sloped collar shape featuring two reinforced pull on lever openings. Easy to put on, easy to remove. The reinforced pull-on levers withstand a 70kg pull test. That’s 140kg per boot - more than Tyson Fury’s fighting weight!
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McLaughlin & Harvey has launched its 2025 YouMatter Health and Wellbeing Roadshow.
This year’s new branded bus will visit sites bringing vital health and wellbeing checks to employees, subcontractors and clients. The inclusive, industry-leading initiative enables participants to access a range of health and wellbeing services, including blood pressure, diabetes, BMI and cholesterol checks, stress-relieving massage, mental health support, appointments with a nurse and healthy eating and lifestyle advice.
Launched in response to the barriers onsite workers may face when it comes to
accessing healthcare appointments away from home, the Health and Wellbeing Roadshow allows individuals to get a measure of their health and detect any issues before they become too serious. Participants can also find out if certain lifestyle choices are putting them at higher risk of ill-health, encouraging them to think about small changes that can make a huge difference.
McLaughlin & Harvey is hoping 2025 will see the highest uptake yet, with the contractor set to celebrate 20 years since the initiative began next year. Throughout the tour, McLaughlin & Harvey will also be raising money for the Lighthouse Charity, donating £1 for every kilometre walked on the treadmill.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a foresight report which outlines recommendations to move towards the decarbonisation of Northern Ireland’s built environment by 2050.
The Decarbonisation of the NI Built Environment report, commissioned by Matrix NI on behalf of the Department for the Economy, sets out strategies to reduce both operational and embodied carbon emissions from homes, workplaces, and infrastructure. The report highlights the importance of retrofitting existing buildings, increasing energy efficiency standards, and investing in skills to support low-carbon technologies and construction methods.
The Minister said: “This report provides clear evidence of the economic, environmental, and social benefits of decarbonising our built environment. It aligns with the Department’s priority to deliver a greener, more prosperous society. A clear focus on improving energy efficiency, skills development, and innovation, will foster the creation of good jobs, improve energy security, and enhance the quality of life for our citizens. I urge all sectors to work together to achieve our net zero ambitions.”
Dr Michael Shaw, a Matrix NI panel member also chaired the steering group of the foresight report and commented: “Northern Ireland has the potential to harness its unique strengths, leverage its geographic position, and lead by example in the global effort to combat climate change. Together, we can transform our built environment into a sustainable legacy for future generations.”
NI Water has announced that McAllister has been successful in securing a major £15m contract, for the next 3 years, for Water and Wastewater Network Services, including responsibility for the clearing of sewer blockages, cleaning of sewers and spillages, along with reactive and proactive pump cleaning and general tankering activities.
Over the next number of months, both teams will work diligently, and collaboratively to ensure service is ready to commence on 1st October 2025.
Ronan Larkin, NI Water - Director of Finance, Regulation and Commercial said:
“This achievement is testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment demonstrated by McAllister to secure a contract of this scale.
“As we embark on this partnership, our
mutual commitment to prioritising our customers and ensuring the health and safety of our people will remain at the forefront. We look forward to working together to ensuring the highest standards are upheld, fostering success and mutual trust."
McAllister has been at the forefront of the environmental services industry for more
than 50 Years. In their hometown of Newry in 1971, brothers Eamon, Michael and Patrick McAllister founded a family business which has grown over five decades: today employing 180 people with a glowing reputation for providing best in class drainage, maintenance, and innovative infrastructure repair solutions to its customers across the UK & Ireland.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons is encouraging applications to the Cladding Safety Scheme to improve the fire safety of high-rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland.
The Scheme provides financial support to fix unsafe cladding in residential buildings over 11 metres in height and over 4 storeys.
Minister Lyons said: “The safety of people in their homes is of paramount importance. I am urging owners and
agents to ensure any potential fire risks are identified and dealt with urgently.
“The Cladding Safety Scheme will help with the costs associated with the removal or treatment of potentially unsafe cladding. So far around £3.2 million has been awarded to building owners in Northern Ireland to protect residents.
“I would encourage owners of high-rise residential buildings to make an application before the closing date of 1 September 2025.”
One of south east England’s largest public transport interchanges was officially handed over ahead of programme to Bristol Airport by Griffiths Farrans Joint Venture.
The development will provide more frequent connections for people to travel to and from Bristol Airport by bus and coach.
The £60 million project, part of the Airport's £400 million transformation
The Department’s Cladding Safety Scheme in Northern Ireland is administered by Home England as part of an agreement with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
The Cladding Safety Scheme funding applies to residential buildings above 11m or over 4 storeys where a responsible developer cannot be identified, traced, or held responsible.
programme, enables more sustainable journeys and will see around 250 public transport movements a day.
Declan Doherty, Contracts Manager at Farrans, said: “I would like to congratulate our JV team and our client for the collaboration and focus which went into delivering this project ahead of programme during the peak summer travel period for the Airport. We are looking forward to hearing the feedback as customers get to experience the modernised facilities, drop-off and pick
up areas on the top tiers of the car park, waiting areas and enhanced accessibility.
“We utilised modern methods such as offsite construction to reduce our carbon footprint and worked closely with the local community to deliver an impactful social value plan. Farrans specialise in the aviation sector, which often comes with its own unique set of challenges and we are proud to have added another successful project to this portfolio.”
Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister, Andrew Muir MLA recently moved the Second Stage of the Dilapidation Bill in the NI Assembly.
The Bill aims to provide district councils with a modern, consistent and fit for purpose Northern Ireland-wide enforcement regime to deal with the negative impact of dilapidated and dangerous buildings, and neglected sites which reflects the powers already available to enforcement bodies in the rest of the UK.
The Bill’s other key proposal is to significantly enhance the cost recovery powers available to councils, making the option of them carrying out the relevant works themselves much more viable.
Speaking after MLAs voted to approve the Bill, Minister Muir said: “Dilapidated buildings can spoil the appearance of our neighbourhoods, can be a risk to public safety and can attract antisocial behaviour, all to the detriment of local communities. That's why it’s essential to strengthen the response to this problem through robust legislation.
“This Bill would give councils powers to compel those responsible for these sites to take appropriate remedial action or allow the council to take the action itself and recoup its costs.
“These measures will ultimately ensure that local people can take pride in their neighbourhoods, helping to deliver thriving town centres and village squares that are attractive places to live, work and visit.”
When it comes to ventilation systems, few companies can boast the breadth of expertise, service, and value that BPC Ventilation provides.
As one of the largest independent suppliers of Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems, BPC has built its reputation on delivering top-tier solutions that meet the needs of every customer, from homeowners to large-scale commercial projects.
What sets BPC apart is not just the quality of its products, but the comprehensive service it offers throughout the entire purchasing and installation process. From their free lifetime technical support on purchased items to their in-house design and certified training teams, BPC ensures that their customers are fully supported from project inception through to long-term operation. This unrivalled level of service and dedication is what makes BPC a standout in the ventilation industry.
BPC Ventilation believes that customer service doesn’t end once a sale is made. Their commitment to free lifetime technical support is a testament to their dedication to ensuring the long-term satisfaction and success of their customers. Whether it’s troubleshooting a problem or optimizing system performance, BPC's expert support team is always just a phone call away, ready to assist at no additional cost.
One of the standout aspects of BPC’s offering is their flexibility in providing MVHR solutions for every type of housing, from cost-effective, value-focused options to bespoke, high-performance systems for prestige housing developments. This adaptability allows them to serve a broad spectrum of customers, ensuring that everyone can benefit from high-quality ventilation systems regardless of their project’s scale or budget.
With an unwavering commitment to quality, affordability, and customer service, BPC Ventilation has established itself as an industry leader, providing an unrivalled service that sets the standard for MVHR suppliers.
A question I get asked regularly is, “Do you know any estimators?” Or, to be more specific, do I know any good estimators? This is usually accompanied by a story about how the estimator they were using priced a tender incorrectly.
By Jonathan Payne
On numerous occasions, I have been asked to review a project that has gone wrong financially, and invariably, I see the same errors, where generic prices are “thrown” at a rate with no thought or consideration to the specific project constraints, or a specification has not been read correctly.
Another common error is using an abnormally low price from a subcontractor with no consideration as to why the price is so low. Often, a subcontractor will price an alternative specification or will exclude items from their quote that has not been recognised by the estimator.
There are, of course, many good estimators in the industry, and they are very much the underrated key personnel in the construction lifecycle. The starting point for the successful delivery of any project for a construction company is first to win the tender. Unfortunately, a bad price at the tender stage remains a bad price throughout the project life, so getting the price right in the first place is absolutely crucial to any project. I remember working in West Africa some years ago when the market was dominated by Irish and Chinese contractors. A local architect and I were talking about the industry, and he noted the difference between the Irish and Chinese contractors when they won a tender was that the Irish first celebrated, no surprise there, and then they delivered the project. The Chinese, on the other hand, analysed their tender deeply to ensure it was correct, they then delivered the project, and if the project was a success, then they celebrated! The moral of the story is that winning a tender does not guarantee that the tender is correct, so don’t celebrate early!
This leads me to the question of what makes a good estimator? I have worked as an estimator during my career, and as a qualified quantity surveyor, estimating was a natural fit, and many estimators do come from a QS background. Estimating is, however, a niche career choice, with
very little formal training. A quick Google search indicates that no mainstream universities offer relevant courses, with any training in the discipline being provided by specialist organisations, with very few level-6 qualifications available. This is maybe not a bad thing, as the skill of the estimator comes from many years of experience, often working as an assistant to a senior estimator who imparts a wealth of knowledge and experience upon the trainee.
The good estimators I have worked with have also developed what I can only describe as a “sixth sense” that differentiates them from the rest.
This is an in-depth understanding of the project: they can build it in their head, they understand the resources required, the challenges, the opportunities, they know the best-fit companies within the supply chain, and they can determine the projects that are worth tendering for and those to avoid. These are skills that develop over time and through experience, and that presents the difficulty in how to educate the new estimators entering the industry.
This poses another problem, as there is a shortage of people willing to become estimators. The perception is that it is a high-pressure and stressful profession, continually working to tight deadlines, with many repetitive tasks and little job satisfaction. The reality is that it is an incredibly interesting job, requiring critical thinking and problem solving, with a wide variety of exposure to different projects across numerous sectors, and there is a very high level of job satisfaction when tenders are successful. The best estimators are highly sought after, which is reflected in the high salaries available.
With the construction industry rapidly changing, the future of construction estimating is being shaped by a combination of technology, data, automation, and industry demand for greater efficiency and accuracy. The future of estimating will see an increased use of AI and machine learning, with automated take-offs and cost prediction models using historical project data. There will also be greater use and integration of BIM, allowing estimators to generate realtime cost data directly from 3D models. There is also a move towards data-driven decision making, with the use of data analytics to benchmark costs, identify trends and forecasting risk. Also, with the move towards net carbon zero, estimators are increasingly involved in factoring in carbon reduction initiatives and ensuring the pricing and use of sustainable materials.
Hence, there is a skills evolution in the role of the estimator, with the profession very much adopting new technologies and AI, and as such, is very much at the cutting edge of the technological revolution, and should be a highly attractive career choice for the tech-savvy graduates and apprentices entering the industry. This is a
message we need to get out beyond the industry to ensure the youth of today, who will be the leaders of tomorrow, understand the career opportunities in estimating and how it delivers the technological integration they are seeking. This is an issue the industry has generally. I have been saying it for many years – we must change the image of the industry and ensures that people see it for what it is – an industry that is making a difference to the lives of others, is adopting the latest technology, and is delivering highly complex projects as a result of the high levels of professionalism that is standard within the sector.
I certainly advocate the adoption of technology; however, the good estimators will still have skills that have been honed and developed through experience and the fine-tuning of the “sixth sense” I mentioned earlier.
I do have concerns that the future generation of estimators will be overly reliant on technology, and the development of AI will result in machine learning to populate rates within a tender.
This has a risk of leading to every tender being the same, with each tender being AI-generated and the rates being “scraped” from the available data, which will be the same for all. What AI cannot do is develop and use that sixth sense to spot an opportunity. It will only see raw data, and will not understand when a drawing is incorrect, or if a bill of
quantities has been measured incorrectly. These are the opportunities that a good estimator will spot and use to gain a competitive advantage, and ultimately be the differentiator that will lead to a successful tender.
Another great skill of a good estimator is preparing estimates based on first principles. This is when a rate is built from the first principles, taking into consideration labour, materials, plant, wastage, site-specific factors, etc. This in itself is a skill that is disappearing, with many estimators using generic rates without a full understanding of that rate. When a rate is developed from first principles, it results in a robust tender, and moreover, this information is then invaluable for the delivery team in understanding what resources have been allowed for to ensure the project is commercially successful.
This is a skill that I strongly believe must be retained by the new cohort of estimators. Hence, a colleague and I are currently developing an introduction to estimating course that will give insight into the profession and train candidates in the first principles of estimating, as well as looking at how to identify opportunities in tenders, and how to prepare a tender from receipt of the package right through to the final adjudication. If this is of interest, please drop me an email and I will send you more information.
Jonathan Payne is the Managing Director of Incrementum, a chartered construction management consultancy that works closely with main contractors and subcontractors, helping them to develop and grow their businesses. Jonathan is also the immediate past chair of the CIOB in Northern Ireland, he is a Trustee of the CIOB, as well as a Board Member of the CITB. jonathan@incrementum.ltd
Grant continues to lead the way in low-carbon heating with its award-winning Aerona R290 air-to-water heat pump, supported by the precision of the Aerona Smart Controller. Designed to enhance system efficiency and usability, the Smart Controller offers real-time communication with the heat pump, ensuring steady, responsive performance in modern heating systems.
Open Loop: A Simple System for High Efficiency
Performing at optimum efficiency when paired with the right system setup, the Aerona R290 works particularly well within open loop heating configurations. Unlike other heating setups filled with multiple room thermostats, thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), and zone valves, open loop systems reduce complexity, giving the heat pump direct access to a larger system water volume. This allows the Aerona R290 to operate at a steady rate, avoiding frequent ramping up and down which would cause inefficiencies. When working with those in the process of building new properties, for a typical two-storey home, Grant recommends:
• One room stat upstairs and one downstairs
• No TRVs (use standard radiator valves)
• No volumiser or glycol required
• For radiators: 4m total of 500mm-high per floor
• Or for underfloor heating: 177m of pipework per floor, no actuators
• The inbuilt 9m head PWM circulating pump maintain a 5C differential between the flow and return, greatly helping increase overall system efficiency.
Fewer components make an easier install and a heating system that runs more like a well-tuned engine than a stop-start commuter.
Smarter Control with the Aerona Smart Controller
The Aerona Smart Controller and Smart room thermostats offer advanced communication with the Aerona R290 heat pump and also pair well with radiator systems. Unlike third-party stats, which simply turn on/off, the Aerona Smart Controller room thermostat adjusts the heat pump’s output based on real time room temperatures, optimising comfort and efficiency.
Key benefits include:
• 4.5” colour touchscreen interface
• App and web remote access (WiFi Hub required)
• Weather compensation
• Built-in support tools for setup and diagnostics
• Up to 100m wireless range from heat pump.
While underfloor systems still require Heatmiser stats, Grant recommends using the Aerona Smart Controller wherever radiators are fitted.
Ready for the Real World
Designed for the climate and humidity in Ireland and the UK, the Aerona R290 heat pump delivers high performance when supported by best-practice system design. Achieves A+++ ErP ratings, with SCOPs up to 4.88. The Aerona R290 heat pump is capable of 75°C flow temperature, however correct system design will ensure that a lower more efficient flow temperature is utilised.
To maintain optimal flow and thermal performance, it is recommended by Grant that installers:
• Use 32mm Alupex/MLCP flow and return pipework
• Apply external pipe insulation with a minimum 13mm wall thickness (19mm preferred) using weatherproof Armaflex or similar
• In coastal locations, treat units annually with ACF50 as part of routine servicing.
Combined with simplified open loop configurations and intelligent control via the Aerona Smart Controller, this approach supports steady, low-energy operation across seasonal conditions. Visit www.grantni.com for more information on Grant’s range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook and X @GrantNI, Instagram @mygrantni and LinkedIn @GrantEngineeringULC. You can also subscribe to Grant on YouTube @GrantEngineeringIE
The Grant Aerona R290
- Innovative Design
- Exceptional Performance
- Ultra-Low Noise Levels
- Outputs from 4kW – 16kW
Costs are based on a list prices and where possible reflect an average between suppliers; it should be noted that actual quantities of materials determine the final price; individual contractor's trade discounts will have to be applied; prices listed have been based on a Greater Belfast area and therefore delivery charges will need to be applied for other location. Base date: November 2023. Material costs (excluding VAT).
AGGREGATES:
3mm dust Tonne
Blinding
6mm aggregate including Type 3
10mm aggregate including Type 3
14mm aggregate including Type 3
20mm aggregate including Type 3
32mm aggregate including Type 3
25mm crusher run Tonne £13.00
40mm crusher run Tonne
50mm crusher run
65mm crusher run
100mm crusher run
150mm crusher run
Recycled fill – uncrushed
Recycled fill – crushed
Building sand
Washed sand
Kiln dried sand
READY MIX CONCRETE: (Based a
C8/10
STEEL
CONCRETE BLOCKS:
Commons:
440 x 215 x 100 7N/mm2 solid block
x
x
x 215 x 150 7N/mm2
£860.00 440 x 215 x 150 10N/mm2 solid block
440 x 300 x 100 7N/mm2
440 x
440 x 150 x 100 7N/mm2 soap bar block
Fair Faced concrete blocks:
440 x 215 x 100 10N/mm2 solid blocks
Thermal Lightweight block
440 x 215 x 100 7N/mm2 block; thermal density 0.320W/m2C
BRICKS:
Commons:
£900.00
£1,620.00
SHEETING:
Malaysian Plywood; 2440 x 1220 sheets
5.5mm thick
9mm thick
12mm thick
18mm thick
25mm thick
Marine Plywood; 2440 x 1220 sheets
12mm thick
18mm thick
OSB 3 SE Board; 2440mm x 1220mm
9mm thick
11mm thick
18mm thick
Chipboard Flooring T&G 4 Edge P4; 2400mm x 600mm
18mm thick
22mm thick
MDF; 2440mm x 1220mm Sheet
12mm thick
18mm thick
MDF Moisture Resistant; 2440 x 1220 Sheet
12mm thick
18mm thick
Fibre Cement Board; 2400 x 1200 sheet
9mm thick
12mm thick;
Timber Square Fencing Post
75mm x 75mm; 2.4m long
Timber Square Fencing Post 100mm x 100mm; 2.4m long
Timber rails; 75 x 44 splayed; m long 4.20m long
Timber Fencing 150mm x 22mm
Bevelled Top & Bottom; 2.10m long
METAL PARTITIONING:
72mm C channel
70 vertical stud; 3600mm
9.5mm plasterboard; (1800 x 900 sheets)
12.5mm plasterboard
12.5mm fireline
12.5mm
12.5mm soundblock
15mm plasterboard
15mm moisture resistant plasterboard
15mm soundblock
8mm x 100mm
Wafer Head Jack-Point Screws 13mm; 1000 per
25mm drywall screws; 1000 per box
Sealant; 600 ml
tape; 240mm
Have a real conversation about your insurance
Having a local office means we’re never far away if you need us. Give us a call or pop into: Suite 9 & 10, Formation Works, Edenaveys Road, Co Armagh, BT60 1NF 028 3752 2649
Leading solid surface specialist CRL Stone has extended its bestselling Quartz collection with the addition of the stunning marble-inspired Arabescato Vagli. Designed to bring stand-out style to any kitchen, Arabescato Vagli is a bold and beautiful marble-inspired surface featuring dark and dramatic veining set against a classic white background. The ideal choice for homeowners looking to embrace the trend for statement, natureinspired worktops with prominent veins, Arabescato Vagli’s distinctive anthracite patterning will bring depth and personality to every space.
Perfect for creating a monochromatic look, Arabescato Vagli is a versatile surface that will complement dark and dramatic interiors and can bring a touch of stylish sophistication to paler colour schemes. Ideal for islands, splashbacks and work surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms, Arabescato Vagli is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing. CRL Stone’s unique quartz material has been meticulously engineered to provide homeowners and designers with a
superior quality, non-porous surface that is durable and strong. Stain, scratch and heat-resistant, CRL Quartz also benefits from being easy to clean and maintain as well as incredibly hygienic.
Arabescato Vagli is available in a smooth, polished finish and comes in slabs measuring 1600mm x 3200mm and thicknesses of 20mm or 30mm.
For more details, call CRL Stone on 01706 863600 or visit www.crlstone.co.uk
Rbrand supplier of material handling equipment across the UK, is pleased to announce that the company will be exhibiting on Stand No 115 at the British Potato Show 2025, taking place from 19th - 20th November 2025 at the Yorkshire Event Centre in Harrogate.
This year, Rushlift is pleased to showcase the latest range of Bobcat Material Handling equipment, bringing powerful, versatile solutions to the heart of the UK’s potato and agricultural industries. On the
Bobcat products: the BPM20N-7 and LPM15N-7 pallet trucks; the D35C-9 3.5 t diesel forklift and the B25NS 2.5 t and B50XC-7 5 t electric forklifts.
As the UK’s premier event for potato growers, processors and supply chain professionals, the British Potato Show is the perfect platform to demonstrate how Bobcat’s robust and innovative handling equipment, paired with Rushlift’s nationwide support and flexible hire options, can deliver outstanding results in even the most demanding environments.
“We’re thrilled to be promoting the Bobcat Material Handling range at such a key industry event,” said Craig Davenport, Sales Director at Rushlift Ltd. “Bobcat equipment is built for performance and reliability, exactly what’s needed in the fast moving, seasonal world of agriculture. Our team will be on hand to discuss how we can support with tailored solutions that keep their operations running smoothly.”
Visitors to the Bobcat Stand 115 will be able to see the latest Bobcat forklifts and warehouse equipment up close, and learn how Rushlift’s flexible hire, sales and servicing packages can support their businesses. The experienced team on the stand will be available throughout the event to discuss tailored handling solutions for agri-businesses of all sizes. Whether customers are looking to improve operational efficiency, reduce downtime or invest in reliable equipment built for agricultural demands, Rushlift is here to help. Stand visitors can discover
how Bobcat’s renowned durability and performance, combined with Rushlift’s national support, can deliver a real competitive advantage.
For more information about Bobcat products, attachments and services, visit www.bobcat.com
Alandscaper has become one of the first customers in the world to power a JCB digger with solar energy.
Colin Ash set up Ash Landscaping in Congleton, Cheshire almost 30 years ago and is set to put his shiny new JCB electric model to work in gardens and driveways across the county.
Powering the machine – a JCB 8008E electric micro excavator made 21 miles away at JCB’s factory in Cheadle, Staffordshire – will be energy harnessed from solar panels on the roof of his car port at home.
Purchasing the electric model also means he can start work just after sunrise in urban areas - as the machine is as quiet as a mouse thanks to no noise from a diesel engine. JCB launched the 8008E electric micro machine this year and Colin has snapped up the first one to be made from dealer Gunn JCB.
Ash Landscaping Managing Director Colin Ash said: “I’m a long-time electric vehicle driver and run my cars on solar energy generated from solar panels on the roof of the car port at my home. Adding the new JCB 8008E CTS was a perfect next step and I can plug it in next to the car and
charge both overnight. We’ve also added a battery storage system which we can charge economically on a low-cost rate in the early hours.
“On site there’s no fuel to manage, no risk of diesel spills, and far less risk assessment & method statement paperwork. Plus, the early starts in urban or residential areas are no problem now as there’s no engine noise. With eco mode I have plenty of power and easily get a full 8-hour day’s work. I’ve not run the battery flat once.”
The JCB 8008E uses a 9.9kWh lithium-ion battery to power the hydraulic system, delivering a full typical working day on a single charge. Weighing less than a tonne and with a compact footprint make it ideal for working in tight
spaces or on soft ground. With noise levels of just 66dB for the operator and no fumes from the tailpipe, it’s ideal for use in indoor, urban or on sensitive sites.
Colin added: “For planting and preparing ground for turf and hedgerows, I don’t want heavy machinery compacting the soil. The 8008E CTS is the ideal size, and it fits through tight gateways – perfect for our landscaping and driveway work. I’ve been running JCB machines for nearly three decades. They’re British-built, reliable and always my go-to choice.”
Established in 1996, Ash Landscaping offers a full range of professional landscaping services from domestic driveways and patios to large commercial projects. The company works across Cheshire and beyond and is a trusted contractor for Roe Developments and Clowes Developments, providing planting, turfing and soft landscaping on large retail parks and housing developments nationwide. It runs a solar powered, electric plant and vehicle fleet to meet the site requirements of major developers and eco-driven customers.
Colin Ash started out offering gardening services when he left school before qualifying as an HGV Class 1 driver. It was in this role, driving a low-loader for a Cheshire-based plant hire firm, that he first learned to operate plant and equipment. Later working in the road surfacing sector, each stage of his career paved the way perfectly for setting up his landscaping business.
Ford vans continue to top the commercial vehicle sales charts across Europe and they ensure their position by continually upgrading and developing the range.
The latest updates to the Ford van range are the revamped Transit Connect and the new all electric Courier.
The Transit Connect is based on the VW Caddy van and has a smart front-end appearance using the latest in Ford design styling. A three-bar Transit grille combined with slimmer headlamps – with powerful HID Xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights available on high series models, combine with a more aerodynamic lower fascia and front spoiler to deliver the fresh new look.
Inside the Transit Connect, an upgraded cabin features a revised instrument panel with a new central control area that incorporates a floating, tablet-inspired 6inch colour touchscreen on high series models, featuring Ford’s SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system. New trim materials provide a stylish and hard-wearing working environment for long working days in the cab.
A state-of-the-art new powertrain line-up provides better fuel-efficiency, while achieving Euro 6.2 emissions standards.
Ford’s all-new 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine combines the latest fuel injection, turbocharging and emission-control technologies with a low-friction engine design to deliver improved performance alongside reduced fuel-consumption.
For customers requiring a petrol option, the Transit Connect offers an advanced new version of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, which incorporates significant changes to the cylinder head, fuel injection and emission-control systems to provide further improvements in fuelefficiency. New technologies also include cylinder deactivation, which enables the engine to run on two cylinders at low loads, to reduce pumping losses and improve fuel-efficiency.
An upgraded six-speed manual transmission is now fitted to all engines as standard. The 1.5-litre EcoBlue engine can also be specified with an advanced new eight-speed automatic transmission, which has been engineered to deliver optimised fuel-efficiency alongside responsive performance and smooth, swift gearshifts.
To minimise overall cost of ownership, service intervals have been extended on both diesel and petrol variants, with manual diesel vehicles now offering best-in-class variable intervals of up to 2 years/40,000 km (25,000 miles).
The longer service intervals contribute to scheduled maintenance and nonscheduled repair costs that are significantly lower than the primary competition, according to Ford analysis.
The Transit Connect introduces a comprehensive range of segment-first driver assistance features including Intelligent Speed Limiter – that enables automatic adjustment of maximum vehicle speed to remain within legal limits, the Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection emergency braking system, Side Wind Stabilisation, and Active Park Assist that helps to steer the vehicle into both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces.
The Transit Connect offers commercial vehicle operators an outstanding breadth of capabilities, with short and long wheelbase options providing load volumes up to 3.6 m3 (VDA), payload capacity ranging from 520-890 kg, and bodystyles including van, kombi and double-cab-in-van.
The Courier is the smallest van in the Transit range and is based on the Puma SUV which gives it great car like driving characteristics. The test model was powered by the 1.0 Ecoboost engine but an all new electric Courier has been launched.
The E-Transit Courier from Ford Pro is a clean-sheet, all-electric compact commercial vehicle designed to bring enhanced connectivity and productivity to businesses. The new model extends Ford Pro’s line-up of innovative electrified and connected cargo vans and is fully integrated with Ford Pro’s platform of software and connected services to further drive efficient operation, including end-toend charging solutions and management tools from Ford Pro Software.
To further boost productivity, the E-Transit Courier has been completely redesigned around a larger, more flexible cargo area that delivers 25 per cent more load volume than the outgoing model, plus enhanced capability including increased payload and the space to carry two Euro pallets.
E-Transit Courier’s all-electric powertrain has been engineered to deliver an uncompromised driving experience for customers, including a powerful 100 kW motor and one-pedal driving capability.
Ford Pro Charging offers an end-to-end solution for home, depot and public charging, including hardware installation and management software that helps to optimise the charging process. Simplified billing and administration via Ford Pro Charging software also supports businesses whose drivers take their work vehicle home, as well as streamlining public charging.
Ford Pro expects E-Transit Courier to be popular with customers who charge at home; Ford Pro Charging is targeting an 11 kW AC overnight home charge in 5.7 hours and charging can be scheduled to take advantage of cheaper overnight energy using the in-vehicle touchscreen or depot charging software.
To support efficient public charging, the vehicle offers DC fast charge capability up to 100 kW. Ford expects the system to add 87 km of range in 10 minutes, and charge from 10-80 per cent in less than 35 minutes. Customers with five or more vehicles can also benefit from one year of complimentary access to the tailored features of Ford Pro E-Telematics. The system uses live data to help maximise productivity, as well as delivering features to support effective and use of Ford Pro Charging. These include current charging status, vehicle-specific state of charge, and remaining range with customisable low range alert thresholds.
Plug and Charge enables E-Transit Courier owners to simply plug in and walk away when using compatible BlueOval Charge Network chargers. Charging begins automatically, and a bill and charge summary are sent to the owner after unplugging..
The E-Transit Courier’s all-new body design delivers increased load capacity. Width between the rear wheelarches is 1,220 mm, enabling the compact van to carry two Euro pallets for the first time. Total cargo volume is now 2.9 m3, 25 per cent more than the outgoing model. This can be further increased using the new load-through bulkhead feature, which enables customers to carry items such as planks or pipe over 2,600 mm long. Maximum payload for the all-electric model is 700 kg, with a maximum towing weight of 750 kg. 5
The E-Transit Courier helps businesses to stand out, with a bold, distinctive exterior design and a spacious, practical interior designed around compact van users’ needs.
The all-new model offers a very comprehensive standard equipment specification including unique cabin features with “squircle” steering wheel design to improve leg room and visibility for the driver, as well as a columnmounted gear shifter, push-button ignition and an electronic handbrake to deliver increased configurable storage space.
The “digiboard” instrument panel contains a 12-inch digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen with Ford’s latest SYNC 4 system. Subscription-based Connected Navigation 7 can boost productivity and reduce driver workload with updates on traffic, parking, charging and local hazards. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard. 8
An innovative, class-unique Office Pack includes a foldaway flat work surface and lighting to make using a laptop, filling in paperwork or taking a break in the cab easier and more comfortable.
Driver and cargo safety are paramount concerns for van operators and Ford Pro. E-Transit Courier sets a new benchmark in the segment with its comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems as standard. An optional further bundle includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centring and Stop & Go, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, Intersection Assist and Reverse Brake Assist for more peace of mind in urban driving.
Every E-Transit Courier features a built-in modem as standard, enabling always-on connectivity with the Ford Pro ecosystem and wireless software updates that can evolve the vehicle’s capability over time without requiring a dealer visit.
After activating the built-in modem, operators can benefit from enhanced vehicle security alerts for collisions and break-ins via Ford Pro Software. With Fleet Start Inhibit, fleet managers can remotely enable and disable E-Transit Courier to help prevent theft or unauthorised use outside of work hours.
To improve security without the time and cost of aftermarket solutions, Ford Pro partnered with vehicle security experts TVL to offer factory-fit lock packs for ETransit Courier. The packs include secondary hook locks to mitigate against “peel and steal” attacks, as well as autolocking for the sliding side door to reduce driver workload and shave seconds off each delivery.
Ford Pro Service expects E-Transit Courier’s non-scheduled maintenance costs to be at least 35 per cent lower than on diesel-powered models. The all-new van is backed by the same comprehensive Ford Pro Service network – including an expanding Mobile Service capability, the unique FORDLive connected uptime system and Europe’s largest dedicated commercial vehicle dealer network – as is the rest of the Transit family.
Managing Director, QMAC Construction Ltd
Q: Did you plan to get involved in the Construction Industry?
I grew up in a family business which was involved in manufacturing concrete products for the construction and agriculture sectors so I was always around the industry. I was aware of what business involved from an early age.
When I left school I worked for the family business for a few years but I always intended to set up a retail fashion business which I did in 1987. I eventually grew that business to three shops. I suppose fashion was what I was interested in at that time.
I met Peter, my husband and Operations Director of QMAC and after a few years I got involved in his business which started off as a Painting contracting business. It evolved into mainstream construction over time. I set up Tendering Services in 1989 which was a publishing company which produced a weekly magazine giving information on all tenders published in Ireland. Over a period of five years that grew to a considerable business. In 1998 I sold the fashion business and the publishing business to focus attention on QMAC Construction.
Q: How did you start off?
Well it was through meeting Peter and making the decision that the real growth would be in the construction sector and deciding to focus on that business. We made the decision that it was going to present the greatest opportunities and we have been here ever since.
I was relatively new to running a construction business so I embarked on a number of courses. I completed a Diploma in Business Management and completed a MCIOB qualification followed by FCIOB. That gave me a good structure to develop the strategy and with Peter oversee its implementation.
Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far?
As we are talking about construction there has been many highs and lows over the past 35 years. Still being in business could be considered an achievement in itself but if I had to pick one it would be having the privilege to serving as the first female President of the Construction Employers Federation from 2014 to 2016.
We were fortunate to have been working on some prestigious projects and we were successful in winning numerous awards. I also have to mention the amazing number of great people that I met over the past 35 years. It might be worth mentioning that low points were the various recessions that came along and thoroughly tested us like many others in the industry.
Q: What was the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I have been fortunate to have met many great people over my career and they have all added to my knowledge and gave me great direction. The one bit or advice that I always reflect on was: “Learn from the past but spend more time focusing on the future”
Q: What would you say to any students considering a career in construction?
I often have the opportunity to talk to young people coming into or considering coming into the industry and I always encourage them to look at the wide range of opportunities available. The industry has changed and there will be further opportunities in the future that we currently cant even imagine.. In terms of advice, I always say the same thing: “Whatever career you want to follow you have to see every day as a learning day. The world is changing rapidly and to keep up to date you need to continue learning until the day you retire”
Q: Do you think the Construction Sector needs more support from Stormont?
I think that many business sectors require support and the construction sector is no different. I think that in the current volatile environment we need stability, we need to have a clear Programme for Government and the confidence that it will be implemented. The industry needs to be able to plan in the medium and longer terms rather than reacting to short term opportunities.
I think that Stormont needs to recognise the vital role that the Construction sector plays in the NI economy. We employ over 65,000 people and the total output is valued at approximately £3.4billion.
Q: What needs to be done to help the Construction Sector?
Over the 35 years that I have been involved there has been an increasing focus on shifting the liability for projects to contractors, this has happened through the drafting of contracts and various legislative changes that have taken place over the years. In many cases we are expected to sign up to contracts and take on liabilities that are outside of our control.
Clients including Government bodies know that they can get away with it due to the overwhelming need for contractors to get work. There needs to be a rebalance and liability placed with those who can control it.
Q: Tell us something surprising about yourself?
I am not sure that I have any interesting secrets but in line with the advice that I give to young people coming into the industry about always learning, I decided to practice what I preach and in 2022, I went back and did a MSc in Management and Governance at Ulster University.
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FJS Contracts specialise in commercial, residential and industrial building projects in Mid Ulster.
If you are building your dream home or renovating your existing home, FJS Contracts are experienced in taking you through the process from design to completion.
We have a team of experienced tradesmen that have been with the company for many years and have a wealth of knowledge of the building trade. We use the latest building technologies and can advise on how to make your new home or building energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
Design
We work closely with the best architects to ensure your project is designed just as you imagined. We also have a wealth of design experience and can often save you time and money knowing potential pitfalls.
Based in Mid Ulster – FJS are a construction company.We cover all areas of construction. We aim to deliver the highest of standards of work.
Technology
As building technology moves forward –FJS Contacts has a wealth of experience and knowledge that allows us to see your projects realised faster, safer and on budget.
