Specify Magazine: September 2023 by Specify Magazine

NORTHERN IRELAND’S No.1 CONSTRUCTION MAGAZINE £3.00 Est: 1980

2023

QUALITY PRECAST SOLUTIONS SEPTEMBER

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SEPTEMBER 2023

NI CONSTRUCTION GROUP CALLS FOR RETURN OF NI EXECUTIVE AND ASSEMBLY

While the 2023/24 Northern Ireland budget announced in April by the Secretary of State, Chris Heaton-Harris, only reduces the overall Departmental budgets by 0.4%, this figure masks the impacts as it does not reflect the extent of pressures due to inflation, rising costs, increasing demands and pay pressures .

NICG is encouraged that many Departments have taken the opportunity to communicate the budget implications to the public, and several Departments have started Equality Impact Assessment consultations on the implications of budget allocations.

It is clear that the stark options included in these consultation documents will have a significant impact on people visiting, living and working in Northern Ireland. NICG is particularly concerned that the operation and maintenance of our essential infrastructure continues to be underfunded. Such assets underpin the daily functions of our society and dramatic cuts to these will have far-reaching implications. NICG is alarmed by the options being considered by the Department for Infrastructure such as switching off streetlights, providing no winter road gritting,

reducing our water and wastewater services, redrawing public transport provision and a reduction to ‘emergency-only’ services for road maintenance and flood risk management.

Equally concerning is the proposal from the Department for Communities to reduce the NI Housing Executive budget, saying that this will likely impact on their ability to ‘deliver better homes and support people into independent living’. DfC is also considering a reduction in investment in public realm and regeneration projects which will impact the quality of life of citizens and hamper economic development of retail and hospitality businesses. The Department for the Economy has also indicated that cuts to their budgets will impact on skills and education initiatives, including key programmes such as All Age Apprenticeships. It has already been confirmed that the Department of Education will not be awarding any new contracts for extensions or new schools in 2023/24 –pausing the process for these will impact the quality of the teaching environment and the need to provide modern, fit-for-purpose facilities.

Jenny Green, Chair of NICG and Northern Ireland Director for the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) said, “Infrastructure projects and services underpin the daily activity of our society, and the budget crisis

will have far-reaching implications. “The feedback on the Departmental proposals from the groups we represent is alarming as they will impact on every citizen and visitor to Northern Ireland – and some of the options under consideration could well put people at serious risk of harm.

“Beyond that, there are implications looming for the wider economy and, in particular, for our young people. While NICG understands that the budget situation is difficult but, if allowed to continue, we will see skilled workers seek opportunities elsewhere and will reduce the scope for skills development across our workforce. This will reduce our economic output and our attractiveness for inward investment in the future.

“Furthermore, we need political leadership to address the climate crisis, and to put in place the policies and resources to deliver on the net-zero and decarbonisation commitment while helping to address the cost-of-living pressures being experienced by households.

“The construction industry has a key role to play in the maintenance and operation of our essential infrastructure and is working to support the delivery of net-zero and other objectives. However, political leadership is needed and NICG calls for an immediate return of the NI Executive and the Assembly.”

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NORTHERN IRELAND’S No.1 CONSTRUCTION MAGAZINE £3.00 Est: 1980 QUALITY PRECAST SOLUTIONS SEPTEMBER 2023

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

contents...

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

PAGE 16

6 DIGEST:

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

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

Kane have secured £25 million in projects within the industrial and healthcare sectors, in line with their ambitious growth plans. Kane will deliver the MEP design and build contract at a Health & Wellbeing Centre which will provide a local community with GP and Outpatient services. The 8 month project is due to commence shortly.

7 DIGEST:

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

As a result of the deal, Solmatix will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group

Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

Farrans Construction has topped out on a luxury 20-storey student residential scheme in Leeds city centre. A total of 212 studio apartments will be provided in the Live Oasis St Albans Place development, featuring kitchens, bedroom, en suites, storage and living facilities.

With a turnover of £30 million and over 80 staff, Harvey Group has over 30 years’ experience in the design, installation and maintenance of building services within every conceivable kind of building type throughout NI, GB and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

11 CEF CONSTRUCTION SURVEY:

“We have been planning to grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on a number of contracts, we’d always been impressed with their engineering rigour and professionalism. In fact, there seemed to be a natural synergy between our two companies in terms of what we do and how we do it. I approached Richard Bell about a year ago to float the idea of our companies coming together, but only if there was a good fit. After careful consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

MOORE CONCRETE – LEADING THE WAY IN TECHNICAL INNOVATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

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

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

“In many respects, it’s a case

PAGE 19

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

managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

ALM HM / METSEAM SUPPLIED ELZINC SLATE ADVANCE FOR THE INSTALLATION ON THIS STUNNING APARTMENT BLOCK IN PORTRUSH.

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

The latest CEF Construction Survey reflects a local construction sector in which a squeeze on margins and political uncertainty, which is significantly impacting the pipeline of public works, is having an increasingly detrimental effect on business prospects over the coming year. The survey, which collected data from NIheadquartered firms reflects on many of the key challenges that contractors, civil engineers and homebuilders are facing currently.

13 SUSTAINABILITY AND THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION:

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

production of Randox’s pioneering medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative functions. The works are the first phase of a major capital expenditure project by Randox to develop the former Massereene Army Barracks into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a futuristic R&D and manufacturing facility. The award-winning, international biotechnology firm, unveiled its plans for an innovative hub on the 43 acre site earlier this year.

As much of Europe basked in record temperatures over the summer months, the construction sector reached the crossroads of many major issues that everyone must face: the climate crisis, energy emergency, rapid urbanization and the social challenge of decent housing, as well as the necessary protection of natural resources. These are essential issues all of those working in construction and its supply chain must play an active part in helping to solve these issues.

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

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

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

PLANNING SUBMITTED FOR £150M BUSINESS PARK IN ANTRIM

CONCRETE FUTURES

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

through new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

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

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

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NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). PAGE 35

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

16 MOORE CONCRETE – LEADING THE WAY:

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

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

Ballymena based concrete specialists, Moore Concrete are working hard to develop new environmental and sustainable products for their customers. Working with Queens University Belfast, the company is leading the way in this sector. As a company, Moore Concrete has a world-class vision. In line with this, their goal is to be an industry leader in environmentally friendly precast concrete manufacture.

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

34 CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY COMMENT:

Gerard Graham with the latest industry news and why parts of Belfast city centre such as Cromac Street need redevelopment.

35 DIGEST:

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

20 NILAN.GREEN – THE FUTURE OF HIGH PERFORMANCE CONSTRUCTION:

With the energy crisis showing no signs of abating, energy efficient building solutions are the current hot topic in construction. We spoke to sustainable building guru and regional agent for Nilan, Garrett Quinn, to discuss the current state of energy efficiency in building and what he sees for its future.

23 BUILDING REGULATIONS:

The NI Department of Finance has launched a consultation on amending Building Regulations in relation to fire safety measures in a range of building types, predominantly residential buildings as well energy efficiency requirements; while changes to permitted development rights for domestic heat pumps have also been introduced.

29 NEW RICS CHAIRMAN

Inspiring the next generation of chartered surveyors is essential to addressing Northern Ireland’s construction skills deficit and creating the world-class infrastructure that our economy and society needs, says the newly appointed regional board chair of RICS in Northern Ireland, Martin Doherty.

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

A formal planning application has been submitted by Errigal Group for the £150 million extension and redevelopment of the Enkalon Business Park in Antrim. Following a successful consultation process which saw extensive engagement with local stakeholders, the planning application has been submitted for more than 900,000sq ft of new build warehouse and distribution space, the redevelopment of existing warehouses and a rooftop solar farm.

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

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

38 INCREMENTUM LAUNCHED

Jonathan Payne is the new incoming Chair of the CIOB Northern Ireland Hub, and if that’s not enough in terms of change, he has also recently founded a specialist construction consultancy and training company, Incrementum (Europe) Ltd.

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

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

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

46 SPECIFY TALKS TO…

In this edition we interview Colin Logan, Design Director of 9yards Property Ltd about paying for quality and enjoying a good dance!

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

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

CONCRETE FUTURES

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

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

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06| digest

NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

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

KANE SECURES £25 MILLION IN DIVERSIFIED MARKET SECTORS

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

Kane have secured £25 million in projects within the industrial and healthcare sectors, in line with their ambitious growth plans. Kane’s in-house team have the transferable skillset and expertise to deliver design and prefabrication solutions in all market sectors.

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

Kane will deliver the MEP design and build contract at a Health & Wellbeing Centre which will provide a local community with GP and Outpatient services. The

GOODSTONE LIVING APPOINTS McALEER & RUSHE ON EDINBURGH BUILD-TO-RENT PROJECT

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

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

8 month project is due to commence shortly. Within the industrial sector, Kane will deliver their innovative design and offsite solutions for a heavy industrial project. Works on site will commence in November 2023.

Cathal McMullan, Managing Director, Kane commented: “Kane are delighted to have secured projects in targeted diversified sectors, in line with our growth strategy. We have a highly skilled team who have the transferable skills to deliver innovative design and manufacturing capabilities in a wide range of sectors”.

“We have been planning to grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically

beneficial. having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise.

approached Richard Bell about a year ago to float the idea of our companies coming together, but only if there was a good fit. After careful consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

GRAHAM SECURES ITS PLACE ON THE NEW £4.5BN SOUTHERN CONSTRUCTION FRAMEWORK

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

managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

London’s Southern Construction Framework (SCF) has awarded Graham a place on its £4.5 billion construction framework for work on public sector projects in the south of England.

clients to deliver around £500m building work every year since it began in 2006. This is the organisation’s fifthgeneration framework and will run until 2027. It covers public sector construction work in education, healthcare, leisure, emergency services and local government.

historic industrial Docklands in the North of Leith, with Ocean Terminal, a shopping, dining and leisure hub located adjacent to the development.

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

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

Graham has been awarded all of the lots applied for, the highest value bands for projects in London, South West, and South East England. SCF is a leading construction procurement framework delivered by the public sector for the public sector in the South of England (SW, SE and London). It has delivered over £8 billion worth of combined construction schemes, helping

Goodstone Living has appointed contractor McAleer & Rushe to build at least 338 homes for its next generation build-to-rent residential scheme in Leith, Edinburgh.

The waterfront scheme, branded as ‘Dockside’ and designed by 3DReid Architects, will have panoramic views and resident amenity space including rooftop lounge and dining, co-working areas, and a fitness centre.

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

Rod McMullan, Graham Director for the Framework said: “We are delighted and excited by gaining a much sought after place on SCF Construct which is an industry-leading framework achieving value from twostage procurement with a collaborative and flexible approach. This follows on from our recent success in gaining a place on the SCF Residential framework and adds to our portfolio, offering and growing presence in South England.”

The homes will be spread across four apartment blocks on a 2.5 acre site and there will be 1.3 acres of new public realm space. This includes pocket parks and a publicly accessible boardwalk created to connect the Albert Docks, the

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

CONCRETE FUTURES

Shane McCullagh, Contracts Director at McAleer & Rushe comments: “Goodstone and McAleer & Rushe share a commitment to making a positive impact in the communities we operate and Dockside is clear evidence of that in action.

There is synergy between our community and skills approach and Goodstone’s social value strategy, both of which are grounded in principles of socio-economic elevation, environmental protection and sustainability. We will be delivering the project in a way that has long-lasting benefits for residents and local people and we look forward to getting on site.”

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

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NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

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

FARRANS TOPS OUT 20-STOREY STUDENT RESIDENTIAL SCHEME IN LEEDS

Farrans Construction has topped out on a luxury 20-storey student residential scheme in Leeds city centre for client Infinity Construction Enterprise Limited, part of the YPP Group.

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

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

with the project due to complete in September 2023. Cathal Montague, regional director for Farrans Construction, said:

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

A total of 212 studio apartments will be provided in the Live Oasis St Albans Place development, featuring kitchens, bedroom, en suites, storage and living facilities. The range of communal spaces will include a gym, meeting rooms, multimedia room, communal lounge and kitchen, study spaces, wellbeing lounge and eighth floor roof terrace. The property will be aligned to the existing Live Oasis brand.

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

The design builds on the client’s reputation for highquality studio-based student accommodation, with a luxurious interior design and enhanced amenity space. The fit-out process is underway,

“The topping out milestone, particularly on a building of this size, is a good moment for the team involved to take a step back and take stock of what has been achieved so far. It has been a challenging year for the construction industry and we are pleased to be on programme with this project. It is a testament to the hard work of the project team and the excellent collaboration that has been taking place between our client, architects, supply chain and the management company, YPP.

“The cutting-edge design has relied exclusively on precast construction from the first floor upwards with a façade design and high-quality material palette. We have been able to optimise the speed of construction using innovative technology without compromising on the luxury finish. The precast panels offer a more sustainable approach

beneficial. having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise.

to construction delivery as well as working well in a tight site footprint by minimising the lorry deliveries. We have a lot of experience of delivering

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

technically challenging projects of this nature, in a central location, with a small site footprint and using Modern Methods of Construction.”

EXPERIENCE PAYS OFF FOR THE DELUXE GROUP

enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

The Deluxe Group, which considers itself one of Northern Ireland’s best-kept secrets, has catapulted the province onto the worldwide stage for firstclass ‘experience’ products and interior fit-out projects for the themed entertainment sector as it secures over $40m of export contracts with top US clients.

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

for the for the hospitality, residential, cruise and theme park sectors, is also investing more than £1.5m in an ambitious expansion plan. The investment includes an additional base in Antrim and new facilities in Portadown, which will increase its workshop capacity by over 100% and see it create 30 new jobs, both of which will accommodate its new contracts for theme parks and other immersive experiences around the world.

in London, but the growth of the emerging experience economy is driving unprecedented international demand for our specialist skills in design and prefabrication of themed attractions.

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

The company, which has been operating for more than 50 years and is a specialist in upmarket interior fit-outs

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

Colm O’Farrell, Executive Chairman, The Deluxe Group explains: “We have seen solid growth within our bespoke joinery division over the last five years, completing prestigious projects such as the luxury hotel Great Scotland Yard and opulent branded residences including The Old War Office

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

“Northern Ireland has gained an international reputation for film and TV production but people might be surprised that some of the world’s most exciting attractions are being built here. We have learned over the years how best to tell a story through authentic interiors, whether it’s an iconic movie or whiskey brand brought to life or reimagining a historic building as a hotel or residence.”

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

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CONCRETE

FUTURES

NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). Director at Randox commented: “The significant boost to the local economy Colm O’Farrell Executive Chairman The Deluxe Group

MIVAN ANNOUNCES RECORD ORDER INTAKE OF £100M

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

Antrim-based Mivan, has announced a record order intake in excess of £100m following an increase in demand for its services, particularly in the 5* hotel and premium residential sectors in London.

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

Turnover for 2023 is now set to be over £70m. The business is also on target with its strategic growth plan to increase turnover to £100m by 2025.

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

100 new jobs have recently been announced to support Mivan’s continued expansion and the next phase of a multimillion-pound capital investment programme is also underway.

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

will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

John Cunningham, Chief Executive of Mivan, said, “This strong performance is down to our clear strategy and a really exceptional team across the business and at every level. This has resulted in a high level of repeat business from the UK’s leading developers, contractors, cruise lines, and superyacht companies. We have a healthy balance sheet, have diversified into a wide range of sectors and have developed an international reputation for our specialist fitout services.”

“It is great to see so many world-class developments being fitted out with bespoke joinery manufactured here in Northern Ireland. Our success is a credit to everyone in the business. As a result, we remain on target with our ambitious growth strategy and will continue to invest in our people and our facilities to the benefit of our customers and stakeholders.”

Elms – a brand new 5* hotel in London, due for completion by the end of 2023,

• Fitout projects worth more than £8m for Prime Development and Sir Robert McAlpine for the Peninsula Hotel on Grosvenor Place in London for bespoke joinery for front-ofhouse areas.

grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on a number of contracts, we’d always been impressed with their engineering rigour and professionalism. In fact, there seemed to be a natural synergy between our two companies in terms of what we do and how we do it. I approached Richard Bell about a year ago to float the idea of our companies coming together, but only if there was a good fit. After careful consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

• A multi-million-pound contract for a 5* hotel in Mayfair

our commitment to professionalism, our desire to deliver our services to the very highest standards, and the importance we place on treating our customers, our suppliers and our staff with courtesy and consideration.”

managing director of Solmatix Renewables described the acquisition

resources and purchasing power.

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

• Multiple contracts at Chelsea Barracks – the exclusive private residences in London – the latest of which is due for completion by the end of 2023

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

The record order intake includes:

• A high specification fitout project worth in excess of £17m for Multiplex for One Nine

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

• A multi-million-pound contract to refurbish and fitout Pearl Assurance House in the centre of Belfast. Scheduled for completion this summer, Mivan will be responsible for the restoration of the historic façade, the creation of ground floor retail units, open-plan offices, roof terrace and a rear extension, as well as internal finishes and specialist joinery.

“The

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

The marine sector also remains buoyant. New projects include a £2.5m interior fitout of a 34-metre superyacht at Pendennis Shipyard in Falmouth.

Mivan has recently completed its latest contract on The World – the largest, private residential ship on the planet – to fitout its luxury apartments and public areas. Over the past 12 years, it has delivered around £20m of contracts on this one-of-a-kind vessel.

Mivan’s commitment to investing in state-of-the-art technology for

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

CONCRETE FUTURES

bespoke joinery manufacture at its 110,000sqft factory in Antrim continues.

Its latest investment totals around £1m and includes the addition of new on line dryer for its automatic spraying equipment and a 6m five axis CNC machine, which will be installed by Spring 2023 to further improve capacity and efficiency.

world markets. This state-of-the-art premises will become a centre of cutting-edge research, development and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and heart disease. We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

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

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NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

Director at Randox commented: John Cunningham, Mivan MD Mivan Auriens Chelsea

Arbour Housing is set to create 270 new social and affordable homes across Northern Ireland as part of a £20 million investment project, supported by Danske Bank.

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

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

The facility will enable Arbour Housing to access housing development grants from the Department for Communities, combining public and private funding to create a total investment in new homes of some £40m.

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

Formed in 1978, Arbour Housing owns and manages over 1,200 homes throughout Northern Ireland, with larger concentrations of stock in Portadown, Lurgan and Newry. The flagship project in its new development strategy will see 98 new social houses being created at a site on Buncrana Road in Derry-Londonderry, helping to meet high demand for new housing in the area.

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

will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive waiting list indicates there are over 2,000 applicants for housing in the Westbank area of Derry, in which the Buncrana Road scheme is located.

Projects supported by the new £20 million Danske facility will help to create up to 190 construction jobs and support more than 290 associated jobs in the wider economy over the

next four years. The new homes will be built to high energy efficiency and sustainability standards.

Kieran Matthews, Chief Executive at Arbour Housing, said: “Our vision at Arbour Housing is to support local communities and improve people’s lives. To do this, we must increase the number of affordable homes around Northern Ireland, which is why

ARBOUR HOUSING ANNOUNCES AN ADDITIONAL £20M INVESTMENT SUCCESSFUL CIOB ANNUAL DINNER EVENT IN BELFAST

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

this new development plan, supported by a financial package from Danske Bank, is needed. “Arbour is investing £7.5m into the new housing development in Buncrana Road in Derry. Provision of this new, high quality housing stock will help meet the high demand for social housing in the area. The scheme features a wide range of one to four bed properties, which will be suitable for a range of families.”

real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

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

Over 190 people attended the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) annual dinner event at the Hilton Hotel in Belfast. Master of Ceremonies was John Campbell, BBC Northern Ireland Economics and Business Editor.

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

Master of Ceremonies was John Campbell, BBC Northern Ireland Economics and Business Editor. Speakers were Roger Gillespie, Chair of the CIOB Northern Ireland Hub committee, as well as Caroline Gumble, Chief Executive Officer of the CIOB. Popular TV personality Paddy Raff provided the post-dinner entertainment. Sponsors of the event were Hays, Off the Wall Creative,

Tughans,

Golden and Keystone

hub on the 43 acre site earlier this year.

The CIOB is the world’s largest and most influential professional body for construction management and leadership.

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

with the design team Ostick and Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller Consulting Engineers and Charles Hutchison Consulting.

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

CONCRETE FUTURES

We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

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

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

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NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). Director at Randox commented: “The Training LMS, Quigg Lintels. Included in the photograph (attached) left to right are: Paddy Raff - after dinner entertainer, Jonathan Payne - Vice-Chair of the CIOB Northern Ireland Hub committee, Carline Gumble - Chief Executive Officer of the CIOB, Roger Gillespie - Chair of the CIOB Belfast Hub committee, and John Campbell - Master of Ceremonies and BBC Northern Ireland Economics and Business Editor. Pictured at the site of Arbour Housing’s new affordable housing development at Buncrana Road in Derry are Danske Bank’s Paul Herbison, Arbour Housing CEO Kieran Matthews, and Jordan Allingham from EHA.

INDUSTRY TRAINING SERVICES OPENS FOR BUSINESS IN DUBLIN

Industry Training Services (ITS), a provider of health and safety training solutions to the construction, civil engineering, utilities and manufacturing sectors has opened a base in Dublin as the company sees a demand for health & safety training within the Republic of Ireland.

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

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

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

will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

ITS was established in 2000 by civil engineer, Brendan Crealey who identified the need for a professional health and safety training company for the construction sector in Northern Ireland after working on large motorway and construction projects in the UK. Since then, the company has grown across the north and into border regions with a purpose-built health and safety training campus on 12 acres near Portadown, Co.

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

Armagh. The company’s training services are also highly mobile as they can provide bespoke professional training courses at client sites anywhere across the island of Ireland.

Brendan Crealey commented,

QMAC AWARDED RESTAURANT REFURBISHMENT PROJECT

A new project is set to commence at the Ulster University Belfast Campus. The contract, which was awarded to QMAC Construction Ltd, will result in the provision of a refurbished Academy bar / restaurant on the existing ground floor within Block BD.

production of Randox’s pioneering medical diagnostic products and will

The work will comprise: Internal demolition.

• Alterations, modifications, and refurbishment of the existing bar / restaurant area including new external doors, the replacement of the floor, wall, and ceiling finishes, as well as the replacement of the bar and counter.

“In the 23 years since we were first established, ITS has become the leading supplier of training courses for a wide range of industries across Northern Ireland. However, throughout those years of growth we have had a sizeable

that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise.

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

number of companies from the south that have become long-term clients of ITS. We see establishing a permanent presence in Dublin as a key step in enabling us to better serve our customers in Dublin and the wider region.”

of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “

LEADING EDGE TECHNOLOGY ASSISTING NI WATER IN LEAKAGE DETECTION

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

NI Water has announced plans to expand the use of innovative satellite leak detection technology. The move comes after a series of successful trials which assisted the company in detecting leaks on their water network.

Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

• Reconfiguration of the washrooms.

•Testing & commissioning of new M&E services.

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

The work is set to be undertaken during the summer months.

The leaks are detected with the assistance of Satellite mounted SAR technology which identifies water spreading from underground pipes. This innovative technology can penetrate below the ground surface.

NI Water leakage teams work around the clock locating and repairing issues, with twentyseven thousand kilometres of water mains to maintain, this is a mammoth task. A large part of Northern Ireland is rural, therefore, many of our pipes

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

CONCRETE FUTURES

heart disease. We will also provide a significant boost to the local economy through new job creation. We very much look forward to working with TAL on this initial contract to deliver the high quality infrastructure we require.”

are located across kilometres of fields and hilly areas. It can therefore be extremely challenging to locate leaks when they do occur.

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

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CONSTRUCTION SECTOR IN NI FACING INTO DUAL HEADWINDS OF LIMITED PIPELINE AND STUBBORN INFLATION

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

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists

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

The survey, which collected data from NI-headquartered firms which have a collective annual turnover of approximately £2bn, covers the last 12 months (2022/23) and reflects on many of the key challenges that contractors, civil engineers and homebuilders are facing currently.

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

will continue to operate as an autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

The main findings included:

• While over 50% of respondents said their turnover had increased by at least 10% this year, 45% said that their profit margins had worsened. Only 9% said profit margins were better this year compared to last

• Over the last year, some 70% of firms were operating at full or almost full capacity

• On the industry’s skills challenge, the 3 main issues that were identified were:

o Specific skills shortages in construction trades

o Visibility of pipeline and market confidence to recruit new workers

o The perception of construction as an attractive career path

WItH a reputation for excellence in constructing high quality projects, tAL Limited has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global medical diagnostics company Randox.

Materials shortages are largely resolved: 85% said any issues were now manageable. However inflationary issues show no sign of abating: 55% said these were having a serious

This initial contract is for the construction of a new facility for

acquire otherwise.

impact causing financial concern or a critical impact leading to contractual or business risk. In the NI public sector market since the introduction of PAN 01/21 in August 2021, at least £38 million has been paid out to firms on existing public sector contracts to help with inflationary pressures and materials delays

When looking to the GB and RoI markets, 3 main reasons were given as to why they are more attractive for contractors:

o More secure pipeline

o Increased profit margins

o Better contract terms Looking to the next 6 months, the key challenges identified are:

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

margins and lack of pipeline. “Although we can point to a majority of our members telling us that their turnover is growing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to complete much of this work at anything other than breakeven. That, in the short to medium term, can have very negative consequences if the pipeline of works doesn’t return to some level of buoyancy.

Deals to the Shared Island funds to the prospects for major reform of the governance and financing of NI Water and the Housing Executive – but the true realisation of these can only come with a restored and fully functioning NI Executive and Assembly which can chart a forward path of public investment in which all can have confidence.

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

o Political uncertainty/no functioning Executive

o Lack of pipeline in Northern Ireland

o Inflation

o Access to skilled labour

Mark Spence, Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation, said of the results:

“While the challenge of inflation is being felt across the economy, this survey points to two very specific factors in our sector which are of concern – tight

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded

“With the market in Britain being a very mixed picture and the proposed huge levels of public investment in Ireland yet to truly hit the ground, it is vital that the local pipeline is healthy – something that we know couldn’t be further from the truth. For the first time in as long as anyone in the sector can remember, many Government Clients entered this financial year with no discretionary expenditure – leading to the cancellation of huge swathes of tendering activity. When you add to this the context of our overall public capital investment being at the same level annually as it was, in cash terms, as 2007/08 then we face a very difficult period ahead.

“This survey again reflects what the NI Executive and the construction sector can achieve when they work together. Over a two-year period since the introduction of the PAN 01/21 Material Cost Assistance measure that CEF negotiated with the Department of Finance to mitigate against the difficulties of material shortages and cost increases, our members have reported an at least £38 million benefit to the public sector projects they have been working on.

“Unquestionably, there are opportunities – from the City

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

This has ensured project and contractor viability across huge swathes of government activity and has only been achieved where our members and their clients have worked together in the spirit of openness and transparency.

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

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CONCRETE FUTURES

NI-9402 Specify Strip Ads.indd 1 20/08/2014 16:45

PLANNING TO BUILD?

CONTACT NI WATER FIRST

It doesn’t matter if your plans are large or small, you must talk to NI Water before you submit your planning application. That is the advice from NI Water as it launches a campaign to highlight the steps small developers and individuals planning to build or extend must follow.

Davy McGrath, Head of Developer Services, NI Water explained: “Engaging with NI Water when planning to build or extend is a vital first step. You can do this by filling in a Pre-Development Enquiry Form. This will help us to identify any potential issues with your plans that we can help resolve in advance of submitting your planning application.

“If you apply for planning permission in an area where there are capacity issues, we will have to recommend the application is turned down until you engage with us. This is to ensure we can continue to protect the environment. So please, engage with us early to avoid delays to your project and potential disappointment if your application is refused.”

Further information on how to engage with the Developers Services Team and the ‘PreDevelopment Enquiry Form’ can be found at niwater.com.

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SUSTAINABILITY AND THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION…

These

A recent study by SaintGobain - the first Global Sustainable Construction Barometer - aimed to assess the deployment of sustainable construction around the world and identify the obstacles and drivers to accelerate its development.

The Barometer research was conducted by the CSA Research institute with more than 800 respondents. 88% of respondents say they know the concept of sustainable construction and 97% believe that the implementation of more sustainable buildings is a priority or important.

However, the definition they

give is mostly limited to environmental issues, without taking into account the social and human dimension, that is, the health or well-being and comfort of occupants.

While sustainable construction is widely perceived as a priority issue, it is less visible in the field or in decision-making. Only 30% of the professionals surveyed have already carried out projects that take sustainable construction into account, whereas 63% of them say that its implementation is a priority, and 57% estimate that more than half of their activity will be in the field of sustainable construction within the next five years.

To accelerate the development of sustainable construction respondents identified three main drivers:

1. Competitiveness of solutions:

For 70% of respondents the perceived cost is considered

as one of the obstacles to developing sustainable construction. Yet, building sustainably is not more expensive in the medium or long term. By considering the entire life cycle, from the design of a building to its renovation or demolition, sustainable construction solutions make it possible not only to conceive buildings that are very well insulated (direct savings on the energy bill), resilient to climatic hazards and modular (possibility of multiplying the uses of the same building over time) but also to reuse materials. Sustainable construction also brings economic and social benefits through its impact on the well-being and comfort of occupants. At the same time, the ongoing industrialization of sustainable construction solutions will result in longterm price reductions.

2. The role of public policy:

44% of respondents believe that public institutions are the

most legitimate stakeholders to advance sustainable construction. However, even today, most elected officials never exclude from public contracts projects that do not take into account sustainable construction methods.

3. Better support for all stakeholders in the sector:

The Barometer reveals a gap between the importance given to the subject of training in sustainable construction techniques, which seems uncontested, and its expertise, which appears less certain. Thus, 38% of professionals say they do not feel adequately trained in sustainable construction. 61% of students consider the lack of training and qualification of professionals as one of the main obstacles to the development of the sector.

In this feature we look at some local companies who are leading the way in construction and sustainability…

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Check

are essential issues all of those working in construction and its supply chain must play an active part in helping to solve these issues.

Build warmth with Grant

Our complete integrated heating packages provide everything needed to build a highly efficient, warm and comfortable home.

Tailored to suit the homeowners’requirements, each Grant heating package is correctly sized and specified, free of charge, to achieve compliance, maximise efficiencies and provide long-term savings.

Packages feature the Grant Aerona3 air to water, air source heat pump, Grant hot water cylinders, Grant Afinia aluminium radiators and the Grant Uflex underfloor heating system. Smart controls are also available.

Trust Grant on the journey to warmth and comfort by sending house plans to

heatpump@grantni.com

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GRANT’S INTEGRATED HEATING PACKAGES ARE HELPING TO BUILD SUSTAINABLE, EFFICIENT HOMES

For over four decades, leading heating manufacturer Grant has been leading the way in meeting heating needs of those in the trade and their customers, thanks to its range of innovative heating technologies.

Known for providing exceptional performance and reliability, Grant has been working with builders across Northern Ireland, helping them to develop more ‘climatefriendly’ properties, by availing of the manufacturer’s integrated heating packages offering.

Hassle free heating solutions

Working alongside appointed contractors, the technical team of industry experts at Grant will analyse house plans, calculate the heating

requirements for each room and correctly size all recommended heating technologies, resulting in a bespoke, highly efficient, integrated solution that will best suits the needs of the individual property and its occupants.

Grant’s technical specialists will also work closely with those involved in building the property to provide help and assurance in terms of compliance. Therefore, those in the trade can feel assured that each new build package has been professionally designed to maximise efficiencies, whilst helping to achieve required Building Regulations.

Designing bespoke heating solutions

Grant’s Integrated Heating Packages for New Builds are designed by the manufacturer’s in-house technical specialists to suit the property and its owner’s lifestyle. All the heating technologies featured within the package are also correctly

sized which is vitally important in maximising efficiencies and long-term savings for the homeowner.

Each heating package includes a main heat source like the Grant Aerona3 R32 air to water air source heat pump, a hot water storage unit from the manufacturer’s range and heat emitters, whether they be underfloor heating, radiators, or both. There is also an option to include smart heating controls within each integrated heating package.

For each project, the Grant technical team will work with the builder to identify which main heat source and supporting heat emitter technologies from the diverse Grant product portfolio would best complement the build. Avail of Grant’s free of charge heating design service in two easy steps:

1. Send planning drawings, contact information and your preferred choice of heating emitters (rads, underfloor or

both) to heatpump@grantni. com

2. A member of the Grant team will be in touch with you to discuss requirements

Following submission of the information required, heat loss calculations will be carried out by the Grant technical team. Once complete, you will then receive full property specifications with recommended products all available from Grant.

Grant’s aim is to make selecting home heating options as simple as possible for those in the building trade, whilst maximising cost savings and efficiencies for the future.

The expert team at Grant takes pride in making all heating journeys hassle free.

Visit www.grantni.com for more information on Grant’s Integrated Heating Packages for New Builds and range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook @GrantNI or on Twitter and Instagram @mygrantni.

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MOORE CONCRETE – LEADING THE WAY IN TECHNICAL INNOVATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Challenging Ourselves and Challenging Our Customers. In Challenging Ourselves, Moore Concrete target their own carbon footprint and energy expenditure.

As a company, Moore Concrete has a world-class vision.

In line with this, their goal is to be an industry leader in environmentally friendly precast concrete manufacture. They are developing their Net Zero Pathway which has two streams:

The Challenging Our Customers stream researches and offers the viable environmentally friendly alternatives to carbon hungry concrete for customers. This means not only producing precast concrete in an environmentally friendly way, but also producing products that enable customers and projects to meet and exceed environmental targets. ISO 14001 is used as the basis for managing their environmental obligations and achieving internal environmental objectives and targets. These objectives are communicated throughout the company in order to increase environmental awareness. Moore Concrete strive to be at the forefront of not only green manufacturing, but

greener products, enabling their customers to achieve their environmental goals. Their 3-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Queens University Belfast is underway to further research and implement other low carbon options in precast.

Net Zero Pathway

- Challenging Ourselves

Green Processes and Outlook in our Factory

Currently, Moore Concrete have several processes in place to reduce the impact their manufacturing has on the environment:

Recycling of Materials

All scrap steel and timber used at Moore Concrete is recycled.

100% Renewable Energy

Moore Concrete’s factory is 100% powered by onshore wind energy.

Recycling Water Supply

The team at Moore Concrete go to great lengths to ensure they recycle as much water as possible during the manufacturing process. All of the excess water from manufacturing and washouts is cleaned and recycled. Water used in manufacturing is sourced from a borehole, by pumping water directly from the borehole to the production teams they minimise the use of mains water supply. This results in the amount of energy required to supply the factory with water being greatly reduced.

Localised Supply Chain

80% of Moore Concrete suppliers are based locally, this not only reduces transport emissions but supports the local economy.

Determined Pursuit of Low Carbon Concrete

Reducing the amount of cement in concrete mixes has been an ongoing process for over 20

SUSTAINABILITY 16

years now at Moore Concrete, due to evolving technology they can currently produce precast concrete products with a mix including up to 66% GGBS (ground granulated blast slag). This lowers the CO2 content of their concrete by over 50%.

Net Zero Pathway - Challenging our Customers

Durable Low Carbon Marine Concrete

Moore Concrete have recently completed a research project to develop highly durable, corrosion resistant concrete mix designs for use in marine infrastructure. The new optimised mix design displays improvement over their current 40% GGBS mix and the use of this in future projects should see Moore Concrete perform better in production and use.

Environmental Product Declarations

Moore Concrete have published EPD’s for a range of their products. EPD’s are used to quantify environmental information on the lifecycle of a product. The recently published EPD’s are just the beginning, Moore Concrete are

to easily identify areas where they can make positive changes moving forward.

Cement Free Concrete Cement free concrete with the strength and integrity of current concrete mixes is the goal, Moore Concrete are able to produce some of their products completely cement free already and are continuously testing new mixes on this front to extend the use of non-ferrous reinforcement materials.

GGBS (ground granulated blast slag) is a cementitious material which can be used to replace Portland Cement. The source of GGBS has a carbon footprint of 32kg CO2 eq/t compared to Portland Cement at 884kg CO2 eq/t. This mix has been rated A++ using the recommendations published in the Low Carbon Concrete Routemap.

Moore Concrete are continuing to develop the mix design of their 80% GGBS mix to improve workability and finish. 80% GGBS mixes have a long curing period before formwork can be stripped, this needs to be accommodated within the works programme.

Basalt Rebar

Basalt rebar is used as an environmentally friendly

working towards producing these for their wide range of products across the business. Having EPD’s available enables the company to be transparent with their customers about the environmental performance of their products as well as allowing them as a company

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alternative to steel. Basalt is naturally resistant to attacks from alkali, water or chemical – making it perfect for use in the marine environment where corrosion is continuous concern. Basalt reinforced structures may be designed to the code ACI 440 which allows

for greater design crack widths as the durability risk to the unit is reduced.

Using non-ferrous reinforcement in coastal locations, allows the cover to reinforcement to be reduced hence reducing the overall section size. The unit design

with basalt fibre rods in place of steel reinforcement which has reduced the unit volume by 25%. Basalt rebar is also significantly lighter than steel rebar while retaining greater strength properties.

By using basalt rebar as opposed to steel Moore Concrete are able to design smaller, lighter units which allow for a significant carbon reduction in both production and transport – without compromising structural integrity.

Moore Concrete recently attended the Flood & Coast exhibition in Telford where they had an example of low carbon concrete on show, what you see here is an L-Wall produced with an 80% GGBS mix and basalt rebar. By substituting cement and steel for more environmentally friendly material the carbon footprint of this particular product is reduced significantly. Our GGBS has a carbon footprint of 32kg CO2 eq/t compared to Portland Cement at 884kg CO2 eq/t.

These are just some of the initiatives underway at Moore Concrete to help contribute to a more sustainable future for the UK construction industry.

SUSTAINABILITY 17

Moore Concrete 80% GGBS: Embodied Carbon Rating Certificate Data: Concrete mix: 80% GGBS Cube Strength: 60MPa Cement Type: IIIB SCM GGBS Cement Content: 450kg/m3 w/c ratio 0.4 SCM content 80% Aggregate size: 20mm Admixtures: Superplasticiser Slump class: SF2 STRENGTH: C50/60 Based on The Green Construction Board (2022), Low Carbon Concrete Routemap , ICE Knowledge Mix 2080 A 215-265 D 340-375 E 375-430 A++ <145 A+ 145-215 B 265-310 C 310-340 F 430-450 G >450 A++129kg CO2e/m3 All figures kg/CO2e/m3 Bounding figures are only applicable to specified strength class

ALM HM/Met-Seam are the leading distributor of Hard Metal and ancillary to the building industry.

ALM HM/Met-Seam Ltd hold extensive stocks of various materials from all leading European manufacturers including VMZINC, Rheinzink Zinc, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Arubis Copper, Aperam Stainless Steel, elZinc, Latem Aluminium, Prefa Aluminium, and Lindab Painted Steel. We also stock matching rainwater systems.

ALM HM/Met-Seam Ltd hold extensive stocks of various materials from all leading European manufacturers including VMZINC, Rheinzink Zinc, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Arubis Copper, Aperam Stainless Steel, Alcoa Aluminium, and Lindab Painted Steel. We also stock matching rainwater systems.

Further to hard metals, ALM HM/Met-Seam in Craigavon and our Dublin office also supply (at highly competitive rates) all associated roofing and cladding products include Nvelope and Kladfix rail and support systems, Warmfast fixing clips, Warmfast self adhesive foil faced vapour barriers, structured underlays and breather membranes, Linitherm PAL OSB, Linitherm PGV FLEX (unique rigid insulation for curved and barrell vault application), Kingspan TR26, Freund tools, Jouanel, Schechtl and other machinery, Express and Perkeo Soldering Equipment, solder sticks, flux cleaning chemicals and more.

Further to hard metals, ALM HM/Met-Seam in Craigavon and our Dublin office also supply (at highly competitive rates) all associated roofing and cladding products include Nvelope and Kladfix rail and support systems, Warmfast fixing clips, Warmfast self adhesive foil faced vapour barriers, structured underlays and breather membranes, Linitherm PAL OSB, Linitherm PGV FLEX (unique rigid insulation for curved and barrell vault application), Kingspan TR26, Celotext TA4000, Metdeck, Foamglas Readyboard, Ecotherm, Xtratherm, Puren M insulations, Freund tools, Jouanel and other machinery, Express and Perkeo Soldering Equipment, solder sticks, flux cleaning chemicals and more.

ALM HM offer the complete metal roofing, cladding and insulation package.

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info SUSTAINABILITY 18 Ireland’s Largest

the

Hard Metals

and ancillary supplier to

building industry

www.almhm.ie. www.metseam.com Dublin Office + 353 1 420 1700 Craigavon Office 0044 28 38 325757

00 353 1 420 1714 00 44 28 38 257 57 Dublin Office Craigavon Office

ALM HM/ MET-SEAM

ALM HM / Metseam supplied elZinc Slate Advance for the installation on this stunning apartment block in Portrush. Designed to provide enhanced protection, elZinc Slate Advance is the ideal choice for roofs and facades in locations exposed to particularly corrosive atmospheres, such as coastal areas or places with limited rainwater washing.

elZinc Advance is rolled Architectural Titanium Zinc, meticulously manufactured to meet the strict requirements of EN988.

The exterior of this premium material is coated with an organic layer, offering exceptional benefits: Barrier Effect: Its impermeable nature shields against corrosive atmospheric elements. Inhibitor: Minimizes the adhesion of salt and inorganic substances that could lead to oxidation, a crucial advantage for coastal regions.

elZinc highly recommends its application in projects with cladding in areas that lack the cleansing effect of rain, including highly polluted regions, coastal areas, and other aggressive climates.

Furthermore, elZinc stands behind the quality and performance of its product with a Manufacturer’s warranty, giving you added peace of mind. Exclusively available through ALM HM / Metseam, elZinc, manufactured in Spain, offers unmatched durability and aesthetics.

The choice of Slate Advance for this project was driven by its remarkable ability to withstand the harsh coastal environment while maintaining its charm and allure.

If you’re a specifier seeking samples, precise build-up guidance, or detailing assistance, our dedicated team at ALM HM / Metseam is here to help.

A manufacturer material warranty is available on elZinc and ALM HM / MET-SEAM can assist specifiers with samples, correct build ups and detailing

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info ALM HM 19

THE FUTURE OF HIGH PERFORMANCE CONSTRUCTION.

“With any new or emerging technology, you’ll always have companies jumping on the bandwagon and introducing products that might not be fit for purpose. Scandanavian countries have long led the way on green innovations and Nilan is the gold standard when it comes to heat pump technology.”

What began as a passion project has turned into a way of life for Quinn, a former engineer turned developer, lecturer, energy consultant, government advisor, and now agent for one of the world’s leading heat pump technology firms, Nilan. During his career in construction, Garrett was always interested in sustainability and was particularly drawn to the German Passiv Haus concept

from his first ventures into building.

Passive House is a performance-based building certification focusing on the dramatic reduction of energy use for space heating and cooling. It is a set of metrics for energy performance, a certification that can be achieved, and a philosophy for how to design and construct better buildings. With his experience and background, and a lot of research into heat pump technology, Garrett acquired the agency for Nilan Scotland and Ulster. Nilan is a Danish company manufacturing a range of heat pumps that he is happy to stand by.

“With any new or emerging technology, you’ll always have companies jumping on the bandwagon and introducing products that might not be entirely fit for purpose. Scandanavian countries however have long led the way on green innovations and Nilan is the gold standard

when it comes to heat pump technology. Nilan have been installing their systems in lowenergy properties throughout Europe and north America for the last 45 years. I wouldn’t be content to put my name to anything I wasn’t 100% behind.”

And Garrett is wise to exercise caution when it comes to connecting his name

to any company purporting to be green, for he has built a reputation as a leading expert on sustainable energy solutions, long before there was a pressing need for green alternatives in construction. 15 years ago, he owned a construction firm specialising in building houses to passive house standards, a concept which wasn’t widely known

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Tom Marriott & Garrett Quinn

about, never mind used back then.

At the same time, he was lecturing to Master’s degree level in both DIT Dublin and Ulster University, ensuring that the next generation of construction professionals were ahead of the curve when it comes to energy efficient construction.

It’s that passion for excellence that has seen him in demand for speaking events and as an advisor to government, and Garrett is eager to share his wealth of knowledge so that others in the industry can learn from each other, “We can only hope to tackle the energy crisis with collaboration and knowledge sharing

There’s plenty of room for everyone who wants to be in this market, as the only future for building is green. The Scottish equivalent to the Passive House standard will be mandated in Scotland next year and I have been advising the Department of Finance regarding the new building regulations for Northern Ireland regarding low energy construction.”

What does he say to those who think that energy efficient construction is out of their budget?

“There is still a bit of reeducating to be done around green technology. It’s no longer just for ‘grand design’ new builds.

At Nilan.Green, [Quinn’s local agency for the world-leading heat pump systems], we offer a system for existing houses that swaps out the boiler for a compact box on the inside. The only prerequisite is that the building fabric must be airtight and very well insulated.”

This is where Garrett’s experience and expertise is invaluable – he is able to offer a full service, advising local homeowners and businesses, who are acutely aware of

ever-increasing energy prices, whether the technology is suitable for them and what remedies they might need to make to reduce their thermal leakage.

With further new legislation just around the corner and energy price increases showing no signs of slowing down, energy efficiency is no longer a luxury but is fast becoming a necessity.

Garrett continues, “Nilan’s revolutionary systems are ideally placed to cater for the rapidly growing low-energy housing market. The units allow extremely low energy, costeffective heating, hot water and ventilation. As well as that, the latest Compact P & S units (MVHR) and the VGU180 (CMEV) often don’t require an outdoor unit, so they’re perfect for apartments without access to external space.”

All this sounds compelling, so why aren’t heat pumps everywhere? Garrett is resolute in his response, “Heat pump technology is probably the most revolutionary and exciting development in building in the last 50 years, it’s a game changer, but they’re not suitable for every building. Any new innovation will attract interest from those who want to capitalise on the early adopter market and unfortunately we’ve seen some media coverage, particularly in England, where expensive heat pumps have been installed in unsuitable properties.

Those of us who have worked hard to educate ourselves and others despair as these opportunists that are damaging the reputation and eroding public confidence in a technology that has the potential to completely change the energy landscape here if we harness it correctly.”

Full details are available via www.Nilan.Green. The

showroom is located near Dungannon, Co Tyrone.

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Nilan.green

Railway Business Park 31a Dungannon Rd Coalisland Co Tyrone BT71 4HP Phone: 028 8775 5109 Email: info@nilan.green

Garrett Quinn

Low Sight Line Slim Double Glazed Units

IMC Glass have invested in the design and manufacture of these specialist slim double glazed units that satisfy the requirements of a low sight line to be fitted in traditional timber frames.

IMC Glass have invested in the design and manufacture of these specialist slim double glazed units that satisfy the requirements of a low sight line to be fitted in traditional timber frames. It is no longer necessary to expect people who live in old buildings not to optimise their insulation. This product provides the alternative to turning up the heating and allows people to live more comfortably in older properties. The Slim-glaze warm edge spacer technology consists of a poly metric tape that has a desiccant embedded in its structure. It is physically smaller than a contemporary spacer bar and more attractive. It allows the perimeter margin to be kept to a minimum so it can be glazed in traditional glazing rebates.

Low Double

IMC Glass specialist a low sight

It is no longer necessary to expect people who live in old buildings not to optimise their insulation. This product provides the alternative to turning up the heating and allows people to live more comfortably in older properties. The Slim-glaze warm edge spacer technology consists of a poly metric tape that has a desiccant embedded in its structure. It is physically smaller than a contemporary spacer bar and more attractive. It allows the perimeter margin to be kept to a minimum so it can be glazed in traditional glazing rebates.

The double glazing has a perimeter seal from edge of glass to inside of spacer bar of 7mm + or – 1mm. Units can also range from 11mm to 16mm in overall thickness. Large panes up to 1m2 only can be manufactured using 4mm spacer, for panes over 1m2 please increase the cavity to 6m or 8m depending upon the size of the unit required

It is no longer optimise their the heating

Our Slim Glaze units are filled with pure Krypton or Xenon gas

Unlike other inferior products on the market, we only use pure krypton or xenon, not a krypton/argon mix, which is less efficient. We also use a sealant that has been specially designed for double glazing. It produces smaller, more discreet seals and is considered the best on the market.

OUR SLIM GLAZE UNITS ARE FILLED WITH PURE KRYPTON OR XENON GAS

The Slim-glaze that has a contemporary be kept to The double bar of 7mm thickness. for panes over size of the

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Our Slim Glaze units are filled with pure Krypton or Xenon gas

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Our Slim Glaze units start at just 11mm overall thickness... about the diameter of a Biro.

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The consultation is seeking views on amending Part E (Fire safety) and supporting guidance in Technical Booklet E (Fire safety). This includes implementing a number of recommendations from the Phase 1 report to the Public Inquiry into the Grenfell Tower tragedy. These changes will improve life safety measures for residents and fire and rescue service personnel during a response.

Glass have invested in the design and manufacture of these specialist slim double glazed units that satisfy the requirements of sight line to be fitted in traditional timber frames. longer necessary to expect people who live in old buildings not to their insulation. This product provides the alternative to turning up heating and allows people to live more comfortably in older properties. Slim-glaze warm edge spacer technology consists of a poly metric tape desiccant embedded in its structure. It is physically smaller than a contemporary spacer bar and more attractive. It allows the perimeter margin to a minimum so it can be glazed in traditional glazing rebates. double glazing has a perimeter seal from edge of glass to inside of spacer 7mm + or – 1mm. Units can also range from 11mm to 16mm in overall Large panes up to 1m2 only can be manufactured using 4mm spacer, over 1m2 please increase the cavity to 6m or 8m depending upon the unit required. filled with pure Krypton or Xenon gas we only use pure krypton or efficient. We also use a sealant glazing. It produces smaller, more considered the best on the market.

The consultation is seeking feedback on the introduction of two new regulations. The first will require the provision of fire safety information at the completion of the construction stage and handover of the building prior to occupation. This information should assist those in carrying out their fire safety responsibilities in the post construction phase. The second regulation would require the installation of automatic fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers in certain types of residential buildings. Sprinklers can provide multiple benefits in terms of personal protection of individuals, limiting fire spread, protection for property and fittings and protecting means of escape.

VIEWS SOUGHT ON AMENDING BUILDING REGULATIONS

Building Regulations and energy efficiency of buildings

The Department of Finance has launched a consultation discussion document on the energy efficiency requirements and other related areas of the Building Regulations, such as ventilation, overheating risks in dwellings and electric vehicle charging infrastructure at buildings.

Changes to permitted development rights for domestic heat pumps

The Department for Infrastructure recently announced amendments to permitted development rights for domestic heat pumps.

how Slim are our Slim Glaze Units?

Glaze units start at just 11mm overall thickness... diameter of a Biro. www.imcglass.com

The consultation also seeks views on extending the coverage of automatic fire detection and alarm in all new dwellings to include installation of a smoke alarm in all habitable rooms. Clarification is also proposed on the minimum fire detection and alarm system required when a dwelling is subject to extension and/ or alteration work. There is also new guidance in relation to smoke ventilation in the common escape routes of buildings containing flats and a series of measures to assist the Fire and Rescue Service during any response to a fire.

The consultation runs until 25 September 2023.

The potential changes discussed in the consultation would support the 2021 Energy Strategy – ‘The Path to Net Zero Energy’ which aims to significantly improve the energy and emissions performance of new homes and buildings.

Options in the discussion document include potential next steps which could make conventional oil boilers unsuitable in most new builds, due to their emissions, and moves towards lowcarbon heating solutions. The consultation also considers improved fabric standards and renewables in buildings, as well as reviewing wider issues, such as embodied carbon in materials and the assumptions used in building energy assessments.

The consultation period runs until 15 November 2023.

The changes came into effect at the start of July 2023 and follow a public consultation in late 2022.

Planning plays a crucial role in facilitating the uptake of renewable and low carbon energy technologies and these amendments will help address climate change and protect the environment by encouraging the use of low carbon heat technologies, whilst ensuring the provision of such infrastructure is sited and designed to keep environmental and amenity impacts to a minimum.

The relaxation to the permitted development rights will now make it easier for energy consumers and providers to utilise renewable energy technologies, such as air source heat pumps, without the need for planning permission, subject to certain conditions and limitations. This will help reduce the reliance of individual properties on fossil fuel heat and power sources and positively address issues such as energy decarbonisation and fuel poverty.

A further consultation, accompanied by proposed regulations, Technical Booklet guidance and impact assessments, will be carried out prior to the introduction of any changes.

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The Department of Finance has launched a consultation on amending Building Regulations in relation to fire safety measures in a range of building types, predominantly residential buildings.

SUSTAINABILITY LEADING THE £15M INVESTMENT AT CEMCOR

Cookstown-based cement production business, CEMCOR, is putting sustainability at the forefront of its multi-million-pound investment in the plant in 2023.

After acquiring Lafarge Ireland in 2022, Cookstown Cement rebranded to CEMCOR following significant investment from the new local ownership of Managing Director, David Millar and LCC Group. The company has multiple industryleading upgrades planned for 2023, focused mainly on the sustainability and futureproofing of the plant.

As part of the new owners’ long-term investment, all upgrades and renovations to the plant are in line with the Northern Ireland Environmental Agency (NIEA) standards and will help to lower the CO2 footprint, ensuring its longevity as the construction industry continues to evolve.

PHASE ONE

Looking to the future, the rebrand of the company is just the beginning and falls under phase one in the plan. CEMCOR’s most substantial project currently underway is the process of moving away from reliance on ElectroStatic Precipitator (ESPs) for dust emission control with the addition of a new bag filter at the back end of the kiln. A bag abatement filter, which will give dust emissions substantially lower than 10mg/Nm3, is the only way to be properly

prepared for the future and a condition set by the Northern Ireland Environmental Agency upon purchase and set to be completed at CEMCOR in Spring 2023.

Also in phase one, there will be improvements made to the current hydrated lime

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installation and SNCR capabilities by March 2023, as part of the plans to futureproof the plant. This will include the addition of a new main fan and upgrading the burner, which will open up greater flexibility for alternative fuels, hence lower the CO2 footprint.

PHASE TWO

Phase two then looks towards the next three year timeframe where CEMCOR plans to further its efficiency targets. There will also be the development of new valueadded products, including low CO2 options which will require a reduced amount of clinker needed to produce even more cement. Although currently poised in phase two for completion, there are also designs in preparation with a view to develop industry leading products which will be announced in due course.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Not settling for complacency in any area of the company, CEMCOR are also investing in new laboratory equipment to improve the speed and accuracy of the raw feed analysis, including online monitoring. Part of this includes new handling facilities

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for alternative raw materials including biogenic carbonates.

There are plans to expand into two new quarries and new heavy mobile plant equipment is expected in 2023. The packing plant is also receiving its own upgrades, including packing heads, weighing systems, controls and a stretch hooder. A new control room and plant monitoring system is scheduled to be completed at the end of April 2023. As well as these developments there has been ongoing site improvements and renovations of the plant itself, including branding it with the new company colours. CEMCOR has already begun to grow in stature with a fleet of new branded tankers and curtain sider vehicles on the roads and an increase in full time staff.

Looking to the future,

CEMCOR as an independent company has many opportunities in which it can take advantage and innovate. With the committed investment from the new owners and clear objectives, it will continue on its successful trajectory, growing further and cementing itself as industry leaders whilst constantly striving to improve its environmental credentials.

Paul Millar and David Millar at Cemcor Plant David Millar at Cemcor

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FAMILY CHOSEN BY SETANTA CONSTRUCTION TO LIVE RENT-FREE IN UNIQUE ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOUSE

short-term move gives us the flexibility to save whilst we carefully plan for our future.”

Setanta director Mark Gribbin said: “Over the past number of months, we’ve been consulting with housing associations, architects, developers and governmental bodies and they’ve definitely taken notice.

“Passive House design is still considered by many as an energy standard that only high end projects could afford.

“But we’re set to alter that thinking by applying complete Passive House standards to affordable housing.”

He added: “SoLow Passive Homes are projected to use up to 90 per cent less energy than traditionally constructed homes.

A YOUNG family from Mid Ulster has been chosen to live rent- and ratesfree for a year in a unique new ultraenergy-efficient house in Magherafelt developed by Setanta Construction.

Courtney Gallagher, her husband Michael and their two children were chosen by Setanta following a thorough interview and selection process to participate in a live research monitoring study in collaboration with Ulster University.

The university will gather live feedback and data about what it’s like to live in Ireland’s first volumetric modular house constructed to complete Passive House standards, the internationally recognised gold standard in ultra-energy efficient construction. The ‘SoLow’ project is the brainchild of Setanta directors

Mark and Niall Gribbin, and their newly launched volumetric house aims to put energy performance at the heart of the property market, delivering significant cost, time, health and environmental benefits for all.

The research will help provide key metrics and insights on the future performance of low energy dwellings, with factors such as internal heat gains, energy usage along with occupant behaviour and the subsequent impacts on the overall performance of the SoLow house fully explored.

Crucially, it will also help determine the overall cost savings of living in a SoLow passive designed home, widely regarded by many within the affordable housing industry as a much needed solution to help minimise the impact of the ongoing cost of living and energy fuel crisis.

Canadian born Courtney and her husband Michael, originally

from Castledawson, moved back to Mid Ulster from London last year to be closer to family and friends. Courtney said: “The modern and spacious kitchen, additional bedroom and secure garden space really appealed to us as we’re a family with young children who benefit from working from home a few days of the week, so we’re hopeful it will be a cherished and memorable move for everyone.

“We’re delighted Setanta Construction have chosen us to be the lucky occupants and we feel very privileged to take part in this unique study.”

Michael added: “We’re excited to move into our new temporary home and get to experience what it’s like to live in a modern, high quality, passive built property.

“It’s great timing as we’ve been considering our options since we moved back home, whether that be buying or building, this

“The financial impact is potentially huge, as the resulting energy cost savings could eventually help break the cycles of financial hardship that cause people to depend more on affordable housing in the first place.”

Niall Gribbin added: “We’re grateful to the Gallagher family for taking part in this study, the first of its kind in Ireland.

”At the end of the 12 months, information gathered will help feed into future decision making about Passive House construction and the delivery of exceptional affordable housing.”

Setanta’s off-site method of construction means that it takes just two weeks to construct a SoLow Passive House in factory and assemble onsite in just a few hours.

And with plans for a new 30,000 sq ft factory under way, it hopes to increase productivity to one fully completed house every day.

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RICS REGIONAL BOARD, NORTHERN IRELAND APPOINTS MARTIN DOHERTY AS CHAIRMAN

Inspiring the next generation of chartered surveyors is essential to addressing Northern Ireland’s construction skills deficit and creating the world-class infrastructure that our economy and society needs, the newly appointed regional board chair of RICS in Northern Ireland urges today.

Martin Doherty, a senior property professional with Belfast City Council, says that one of his key goals in office will be to promote surveying as a profession in Northern Ireland, including the opportunities it can create and the critical role it plays.

Mr Doherty, who takes over from Ulster University lecturer Sharon McClements, says that whilst surveyors play a key role in shaping, enhancing and protecting Northern Ireland’s built environment, there currently aren’t enough of them, which has been a challenge for

the industry over recent years. He says that inspiring the next generation is critical for the industry and the economy. He says that more talented young surveyors coming through in the industry will help Northern Ireland deal with its infrastructure deficit, its housing shortage, and its need to be more sustainable.

“As regional chair my intention over the next year is to positively influence the direction of the RICS, whilst helping deliver positive, sustainable change in the built and natural environment. I’m particularly invested in promoting the profession, especially for the next generation of surveyors.

“The RICS Construction and Infrastructure Monitor has shown that skills shortages continue to persist in our industry, and we hear this time and again from members anecdotally too. We also hear time and again how the skills of chartered surveyors are central to so many critical aspects of our lives in Northern Ireland including creating our infrastructure, building the homes that we need to live in, and addressing climate change.

“To meet the future needs of communities, we need to attract and retain a larger, more diverse workforce, and we also need to upskill professionals in retrofitting solutions. RICS has a key role to play in this alongside stakeholders in education and government.

We need a Northern Ireland Executive in place to help address these and other challenges. In my role as chair, I will continue to echo RICS’ calls for a government to support more apprenticeships and to work with industry to deliver training which will close the close the skills gap.”

Martin Doherty who has 25 years’ of experience in the built environment, is programme delivery manager for Belfast City Council, with responsibility and accountability for leading and managing teams in the delivery of capital projects and programmes. Prior to his roles within the council, Martin was a partner with a chartered quantity surveying firm.

Having sat on the RICS regional board for four years, Martin will now lead the RICS board here and represent the organisation

locally in engagement with members, stakeholders and media.

RICS, which has a remit to act in the public interest through its Royal Charter, has around 1900 members in Northern Ireland including those working across the land, property and construction industries as well as students.

The incoming chair also officially opened the new RICS office for Northern Ireland in Belfast’s Custom House. The newly obtained offices are part of a five-star facility in the heart of the city.

The office space offers a dedicated space for members to meet, network and collaborate with shared meeting spaces including privacy pods, a boardroom and a number of meeting rooms.

“With our new regional presence at Custom House and a number of events planned including the RICS NI Annual Conference in September, I’m looking forward to playing my part in what is an exciting time for RICS in Northern Ireland,” Martin adds.

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Sharon McClements, outgoing RICS NI board chair, Martin Doherty, newly appointed board chair of RICS NI and Emma Causer, Market Director RICS UK & Ireland at the new RICS offices in Custom House, Belfast

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info Planning to build? Contact NI Water before applying for planning approval. If you’re going to apply for planning approval, speak to NI Water first. There may be potential issues that the team can help you to identify and resolve in advance. Complete the simple process below to avoid potential delays to your project. Pre-Development Enquiry NI Water will assess your plans for available water and sewerage capacity. If there are issues, you can submit an Impact Assessment Application Impact Assessment An engineering report will suggest ways to solve these capacity issues (if possible). We can then work with you to agree a solution. Planning Permission If you apply for planning in an area with capacity issues, without an Impact Assessment, we must recommend your application is rejected until you engage with us. This is to protect the environment. 3. 2. 1. Learn more at niwater.com/services-for-developers So it’s important you contact us early, no matter what size your project is.

WHY THE CEF BELIEVES COLLABORATION IS KEY TO SOLVING SKILLS SHORTAGES

By Mark Wade, Hays

As with every sector of our economy, the construction industry is facing into a time of great change.

Key drivers such as the push towards a green economy and net zero, as well as the increasing impact of digitisation, AI and software development in construction and manufacturing processes mean that nobody in the industry can afford to stand still. We’ve seen great examples of companies moving to proactively deal with these changes and make the most of the opportunities they represent.

However, as I’ve written about many times in this column, it’s well accepted that the single biggest threat facing the construction industry is the shortage of new skills and talent entering the sector.

It’s a topic I recently talked about at length with Mark Spence, the Managing Director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) Northern Ireland, which represents around 70% of all NI contractors including most of the industry’s largest, top tier employers.

Mark outlined to me how, in the last year, the CEF has been working with the Trade Unions in a company called Construction Industry Futures, which commissioned leading business consultants EY to review the local construction market and bring forward a series of recommendations for talent intervention in the market.

“This report, which is now completed, took a variety of approaches to better comprehend the sector as it is today and the path that potentially lies ahead of us,” Mark told me.

“While we passionately believe that what this report has presented is deliverable – we equally believe that the only way we can make substantive progress is by embedding a culture of partnership working which we have seldom seen in recent decades.”

Through a combination of desktop research, questionnaires and stakeholder

workshops, the CEF identified six impactful interventions that it believes could make a really tangible positive impact.

• Establish a Construction Skills Forum between education, government and industry - a cross-sectoral group that meet at an agreed frequency to address key issues facing the industry, with a skills focus, sponsored by an independent organisation for maximum impact.

• Review of apprenticeship delivery model - ensuring apprenticeships are delivered in the most appropriate and beneficial way to best equip trainees for site work, provide them with a holistic learning experience and ensure they remain employed in work following their apprenticeship.

• Skills alignment through more effective engagement by and with the education sector - fostering increased dialogue with education (including the private training sector) to achieve alignment to the necessary on-site skills through effective skills gap analysis, future planning, and more agile bitesize learning opportunities.

• Review of pay and rewards packages within the industry - maintaining NI’s competitiveness as an attractive employment market to local employees through improved procurement processes, better pipeline visibility, and selling the benefits of a career in construction.

• Technical skills development for typical construction skillsminimising the impact of trades shortages by ensuring technical skills training is widely available for all, through continuous provision of tutors, multiskilling of trainees, and better awareness of existing skills gaps.

• Promotion of construction in schools - partnering with primary and secondary schools to boost the awareness of construction as an attractive career path through the improved targeting of students, provision of career advice, and an increasingly joined-up approach.

Mark says that he believes the first proposed intervention – the establishment of a Construction Skills Forum – is absolutely vital.

“It is unquestionable that there are already a number of organisations – such as Women’s Tec – taking major strides to addressing our skills shortage,” he explains.

“However, what the current approach lacks – and desperately needs – is a more collaborative approach between the sector, trade unions, Construction Industry Training Board, Further and Higher Education, the Department for the Economy and private training providers,” he adds.

“The Construction Skills Forum would, in our model, be responsible for deciding priorities, aligning current

activities and driving the skillsrelated strategic agenda for the construction sector.”

He notes that once in place, the Forum would then drive forward the other five key interventions that the CEF’s report has laid out, through a variety of sub-groups involving key industry players.

“The sub-groups would bring together those at the heart of our sector, underpinning this work with further data gathering and research to ensure that we are in the best position we possibly can be to flourish into the future,” says Mark.

“This structure, sitting as a core element reporting to the already established DfE Skills Council, can then act as the driver for change which we have long needed. As we formally launch this report, it is now our role to make the clear and unambiguous case to government of the partnership that our sector wants to see.”

The approach being proposed by the CEF is certainly one that Hays, as a major recruitment partner for many of the industry’s most significant employers, will be getting behind. From working closely with the various industry bodies and associations we know there are several fantastic skills initiatives out there which are having real success. Collaborating more closely can only enhance the industry’s ability to meet skills shortages for the future.

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Mark Wade from Hays and the CEF’s Mark Spence are pictured at the CEF’s headquarters in Belfast.

PLANNING SUBMITTED FOR £150M BUSINESS PARK IN ANTRIM

A formal planning application has been submitted by Errigal Group for the £150 million extension and redevelopment of the Enkalon Business Park in Antrim.

Following a successful consultation process which saw extensive engagement with local stakeholders, the planning application has been submitted to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for more than 900,000sq ft of new build warehouse and distribution space, the redevelopment of existing warehouses and a rooftop solar farm.

The proposed plans would see the completed park span a total of 1.7M sq ft and, subject to approval, Errigal Group hopes to be on site for Phase 1 of the build in early 2024.

Located adjacent to The Junction retail and Leisure Park, the southern section of the park is already occupied by companies such as Bath Shack, Sports Direct and Fastway. With excellent transport links, including easy access to the M2 motorway, the proposed new build warehouse space is likely to appeal to a wide variety of local and international businesses.

Once completed and fully let, the development has the potential to create more than 1000 jobs in the local Antrim area, as well as 200 jobs during construction.

Cormac McCloskey, Joint Managing Director of Errigal Group said: “The consultation process for our proposed redevelopment and extension of Enkalon Business Park has been overwhelmingly positive, with meaningful engagement from local representatives, residents and businesses.

Following this engagement with key stakeholders, our team has refined and finalised our

planning submission and we’re excited to take this project through the next stage.” Since acquiring the Enkalon site in 2019, Errigal Group has carried out £2M of upgrade works. The site as it stands currently is fully leased to tenants as warehousing, distribution and showroom space.

The company has also set up an off-site manufacturing unit to service construction projects in Ireland, the UK and mainland Europe. The site currently employs over 400 people across all the business units with the number projected to grow in 2023.

KANE OPENS BIRMINGHAM OFFICE IN LINE WITH THEIR GROWTH STRATEGY

Kane have announced the opening of their Birmingham office.

In line with Kane’s strategic 5-year plan, expanding into the Birmingham region will drive their ambitious plans to diversify into their target sectors and regions.

Kane’s in-house capabilities, along with commitments to; Modern Methods of Construction, innovation and sustainable solutions demonstrates business commitment to listening and aligning with their customers’ expectations.

Marty McMullan, Operations Director, Kane commented:

“This is an exciting step forward on our growth journey.

It was the natural next step to open in the Birmingham region to ensure we meet the needs of our clients.”

Chris Lavin will join Kane as PreConstruction Manager.

Chris has almost 30 years industry experience having managed a variety of multi-million-pound projects before moving into a business development role successfully targeting new regions and sectors for M&E Contractors

where he has held several senior positions overseeing projects within the commercial, education, healthcare, life sciences, residential and leisure sectors.

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within the UK. Aaron Swain has joined the business and will lead the Birmingham region operations. Aaron has over 25 years’ experience in the M&E industry

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY COMMENTARY

Northern Ireland Updates:

• CPD register of contractors: Construction & Procurement Delivery (CPD) maintain a Dynamic Shortlisting System, which is like being on a framework. Many local contractors are registered on this for building and civil engineering work. There is also a separate register for mechanical and electrical contractors. Companies should be mindful that their registration has an expiry date. It is up to each company to check their expiry date and reapply well in advance of the expiry date otherwise you drop off the list and will miss out on potential new work.

• Education Authority new projects on hold: I notice there are many school projects that have been put on ‘pause’ due to the unavailability of funding because of the recent budget cuts. This has ranged from refurbishment projects to new-build school buildings. Some of the projects have been at PQQ stage while others have been at tender stage. I know of one project where the contractor was

By GERARD GRAHAM

within days of starting on site, but to be told the project was on hold due to unavailability of budget. This is having a ripple effect on the construction industry as companies turn to quickly pursue work in other sectors, which puts pressure on already thin margins.

•The need for redevelopment in Belfast: I attended a meeting in Belfast city centre during June. The city has been genuinely transformed, particularly the Lagan area where the impressive Waterfront Hall continues to act as a focal point for the redeveloped waterfront area. However, what caught my attention was the number of streets that urgently need redevelopment. Cromac Street is an obvious example of a prominent road which is overlooked by run-down buildings, many in severe disrepair. Other streets include North Street and Lower Garfield Street. Hopefully initiatives like the Belfast Region City Deal can provide opportunities for new ventures which will hopefully lead to redevelopment and muchneeded new infrastructure.

• NEC4 Alliance

contract: With so many contractual challenges nowadays, I remain surprised that the NEC4 Alliance contract is not considered more widely for use. The contract is based on all parties involved signing up to the same single contract therefore risk is more evenly proportioned. Some people say it is more suitable for large projects. Perhaps we might see more of it in the future.

Rep. Ireland Updates:

•New procurement portal: For companies bidding for work in Rep. Ireland there is a new procurement portal which was launched in May. It is very similar to the eTendersNI portal in Northern Ireland. My tip is that companies should register their interest in the types of work they might want to tender for to be notified about potential opportunities. Users need to click on ‘EO Management / Edit CPV Codes’. An automated email will then be issued to alert users when a suitable contract is published.

• Professional qualifications

becoming more important: Increasingly more PQQs and ITTs in Rep. Ireland are asking companies to declare a CV for their key personnel including generally Contracts Director, Contracts Manager, Site Manager, and Health & Safety Manager. I notice that points are awarded directly for team members who hold a professional qualification. To clarify, a professional qualification is different to an academic qualification, such as a degree.

A professional qualification is typically Chartered membership of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), or for example the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland.

Enquiries: Gerard Graham FCIOB is a past regional Chair of the CIOB and is Principal of Gerard Graham Consulting. He can be contacted at gerard@ gerardgraham.co.uk.

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North Street, Belfast. An example of an area in urgent need of redevelopment.

TRIBUTES PAID TO TOP ECONOMIST AND WRITER JOHN SIMPSON

Everyone at Specify Magazine was saddened to hear of the passing of John Simpson recently. John, who was 90, was an economist, writer and contributor and had continued to write columns for the Belfast Telegraph, Ulster Business Magazine and Specify Magazine until a month before his passing.

At a service of Thanksgiving held in St Patrick’s Church in Jordanstown following his passing, tributes were paid to John by his daughter Joanne Elliott, his friends Sir Des Rea and Professor Ken O’Neill and Canon Nigel Baylor.

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Sir Des Rea outlined the wide range of roles held by Mr Simpson over the years, including chairman of the Eastern Health and Social Services Board, chair of Bryson House and the Probation Board and an executive position at the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools.

He was also an arbitrator for the NI Labour Relations Agency and chaired the North Belfast Housing Association.

Sir Des said that John’s media career had begun in 1965 as an expert on the economic development plan devised by the NI government led by Prime Minister Terence O’Neill. Mr Simpson had also worked

as a statistics officer for the Federation of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). He was also a visiting expert at the Central Bank of Sierra Leone and the Central Bank of Malta.

Speaking at the Service of Thanksgiving, Canon Baylor joked about John Simpson’s grandsons Ryan and Connor who said that, “Grandad knows everything and if he doesn’t, he can make something up real fast.”

John is survived by his daughters Joanne and Susan and grandsons Ryan and Connor.

‘’John is fondly remembered and will be sadly missed by his friends and colleagues at Greer

Publications,’’ said publisher James Greer.

“He made a huge contribution to our coverage in both Ulster Business and Specify magazines over the years, and we will truly miss his knowledgeable input. His understanding of Northern Ireland business and our public services was unmatched.

“John was consistently goodhumoured, and I always found him entertaining company. On arrival he was unceasingly inquisitive, and I used to smile as he immediately made sure you didn’t have some nugget of news that he hadn’t heard yet!’’

TEN PROJECTS SHORTLISTED FOR THE RSUA DESIGN AWARDS 2023

The search for the best works of architecture in Northern Ireland in 2023 has been narrowed down to the final ten following a rigorous judging process by an expert panel of architects from across Ireland and Great Britain.

Ciarán Fox, Director of RSUA welcomed the news, commenting “Our built environment impacts our daily lives in so many ways. Each new addition must be crafted with great care for the needs of the client and the end user but also to meet the needs of the wider community and the natural environment.”

“I congratulate the architects, clients and wider teams involved in delivering these ten projects. Having assessed this year’s submissions the distinguished judging panel has concluded that each of these works of architecture have demonstrated some element of delight, invention or ambition that deserves a more thorough examination.”

“This year’s shortlist takes in a wonderful range of project types and budgets ranging from a house extension to a £120m hospital block. I’m almost certain it’s the first time we have had an urban farm on the shortlist too.”

“It’s great to once again see the reworkings of a number of existing buildings have made the shortlist. Retaining our built

Project name

Grand Opera House

Windmill House

Ulster Hospital Acute Services Block

heritage is more important than ever, not just from a cultural point but also from an environmental perspective.”

“The projects submitted for this year’s awards were required to have been in use for at least one year before they could be put forward so that the judging panel could better evaluate the sustainability and overall

Belfast

Ballyhackamore House

Hill House

Braidside Integrated Primary School

St. James Farm Belfast

Magheracross Coastal Walkway Trailhead and Scenic Viewpoints

Fort House

The Chapel

performance of these projects. This ensures the competition remains the most robust measure of the best architecture emerging from Northern Ireland. RSUA will continue to make sure that the focus is not just on the projects’ aesthetics but the full range of design considerations including crucially the environmental impact and carbon footprint.”

Location Architect(s)

Belfast

Hillsborough

Dundonald

Consarc Design Group

Marshall McCann Architects

Avanti Architects in association with Kennedy

FitzGerald Architects

Belfast Studio idir

Belfast

Ballymena

McGonigle McGrath

Isherwood + Ellis with Knox Clayton Architects

Belfast MMAS

Bushmills

Armagh

Belfast

GM Design Associates

LimIted

Patrick Bradley Architect Ltd

Alskea Ltd

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Ballyhackamore House

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Braidside Integrated Primary School Grand Opera House Magheracross Coastal Walkway The Chapel Windmill House Fort house Hill House St James Farm, Belfast Ulster Hospital Acute Services

NEW CHAIR OF CIOB LAUNCHES NEW INCREMENTUM

Jonathan is a renowned professional within the construction industry in Northern Ireland, with over 30 years experience starting as a graduate quantity surveyor and progressing to the ranks to Managing Director.

He was the co-founder of Corramore Construction Ltd, which under his tenure as Managing Director for 19 years, grew to have an annual turnover in excess of £25 million. After selling his shareholding in this venture in 2019, he was then appointed as Managing Director of Mascott Construction (Europe) Ltd for the last 4 years, which, under his leadership, has grown significantly to a turnover of circa £25 million, a position from which he resigned in April of this year.

Specify asked Jonathan to tell us about his career to date and about his exciting new venture with Incrementum…

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my last 4 years in the position of Managing Director of Mascott, and I feel that I have achieved what I set out to do in this role in growing and strengthening the company into what it is today, with significant growth and turnover, and a strong reputation for delivering excellence.

Hence, I have now decided the time is right to move on to new challenges, as the drive and hunger to again build and grow my own company, this time within the consultancy and training sector of the construction industry, is what excites and inspires me.

I have a wealth of experience in all aspects of establishing and growing successful construction companies, having been personally involved in every aspect of a company, including business development,

estimating, quantity surveying, programming, contracts management, risk management, project delivery, cash flow management, contract law, dispute resolution, strategic planning, growth planning and corporate governance.

I have also demonstrated the ability to react quickly and effectively to challenging situations, having lead

companies through a diverse range of issues including recessions, the credit crunch, and more recently, the pandemic and the hyperinflation that had a significant impact on our industry. It is this depth and range of experience in the many diverse and challenging aspects of managing a construction company that has put me in a unique position to use my

experiences, knowledge and skills to help other individuals and companies within the sector to build, develop and grow.

I have therefore launched Incrementum, an exciting new organisation that helps construction companies and sub-contractors to grow and develop their businesses through a variety of specialist

Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info CIOB 38

consultancy services that includes growth strategies, systems and processes to increases efficiencies, risk management reviews and cash flow management systems.

We can also review Company structures, carry out full 360 degree business reviews,

advise on procurement and contracts, develop business plans and advise on corporate governance. We also provide a full business mentoring service that can include acting as a non-executive director in an advisory role. Many of these services can also avail of financial support through Invest NI as we are on their database of service providers.

Another area of the business that I am very excited about is bespoke training courses and business seminars. I have developed a course in partnership with Training LMS that is commencing in July, titled “The Successful Lifecycle of a Construction Contract”. This course, delivered as a series of group and individual webinars, and face-to-face full day consultancy visits, will give candidates a strong understanding of the complex process of delivering a construction project from inception to completion, with a strong emphasis on how to identify and mitigate risk throughout the process to ensure achievable project deliverables.

The course will give all construction professionals a thorough understanding of the impact of their decisions upstream and downstream of their roles, and demonstrate the importance of collaboration throughout the project delivery, with a particular emphasis on the importance of the operational and commercial teams working closely together as a combined project delivery team to ensure timely completion to high standards while ensuring profit margins are maximised.

I am also working on a series of “Grow Your Business” Seminars that will be targeting SME Construction companies and sub-contractors with intensive 2-day residential courses at various locations throughout the UK, at weekends to accommodate time-short business owners who cannot take time away from their business during the week. These will be masterclasses on how to effectively grow and develop

your business while maximising profit margins. So much of our industry is made up of SME’s who have often grown quickly, but do not have the benefit of layers of experienced management staff. More often than not, these are great companies with great people, but have a skills shortage in how to best develop and grow their companies in a planned and sustainable manner that will create strong foundations for many years to come.

Hence, I see a fantastic opportunity to use these seminars as a way to help train, educate and professionalise these companies and their people, who are the lifeblood of our industry.

I am also very passionate about the wider construction industry, and I may be slightly biased, but I strongly believe that it’s the best industry in the world, and I am relishing the challenge of not only a new business, but also moving into the role of Chair of the CIOB. I have been vice-chair for the last 2 ½ years, and it is a great honour to be taking over the role as Chair after members forum at the end of June.

I would take this opportunity to thank the outgoing chair, Roger Gillespie for his great work and dedication to the CIOB in his role, and also to the entire committee and support staff who have given Roger and I such great support, and will no doubt continue to do so.

We are a close knit and strong team of professionals representing an organisation that is truly one of the great influential construction networks that represents a diverse range of people throughout our industry who work worldwide in the development, conservation, and improvement of the built environment, promoting the highest levels of integrity and professionalism, and setting the standards to which our members are committed.

During my tenure as chair, I want to promote the

construction industry as an excellent career choice for our youth. So often our industry is unfortunately and unfairly seen as a final resort for a career, however the reality is this is an industry of highly skilled professionals, with generous salaries and fantastic opportunities for career progression, and as such it should be promoted as a primary career choice, particularly now that our industry has such a skills shortage. It’s time for us all to act!

I believe that to change the perception of the industry in a positive manner we have to target both primary and secondary schools in order to get the message across about the great career opportunities this industry has to offer.

I am also a Board Member of the CITB in Northern Ireland who have a fantastic initiative called “adopt a school” which gives construction companies the opportunity to build relationships with schools in their local areas, and it is projects like this can really make a difference.

We also have to educate the educators as to the wide range of construction careers that are available ensuring that the message is delivered to the target audience in the correct manner that promotes construction as the fantastic career that it is. Finally, to celebrate the launch of Incrementum, and to help break down the barriers of uncertainty with many companies not seeking the help they really need, I am offering readers of Specify the opportunity to avail of our services for free.

If readers go to our web page, www.incrementum.ltd, and use the “contact us” page to send us their details and how they would like us to help, we will select one lucky company and tailor a bespoke package to help their company free of charge. Please submit your entry by 31st July, with the successful company being notified within 14 days.

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We have something big coming “Building Together, Partner by Partner”

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it’s for, whatever solution is required, wherever it’s located, we are the energy company that can deliver for your project.

it’s a large development or a small residential unit, in a busy urban environment or a remote rural location, Flogas has the right solution for you and your clients. Energy Tailored to You

how we can transform your project or contact us about our CPD courses. Airport Road West, Belfast, BT3 9ED. Tel: 028 9073 2611 www.ﬂogasni.com Natural Gas LPG DIRECTORY TO ADVERTISE HERE, CONTACT Specify Magazine info@specifymagazine.co.uk

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BRETT MARTIN’S STUNNING NEW ROOF LANTERN PUTS SAFETY FIRST

A new Roof Lantern from daylight systems manufacturer, Brett Martin, will enhance the quality of any space and shares many of the same high-performance features as the glass rooflight range for the domestic market.

Available in both a 4 pane Contemporary or a 6 pane Classic style, the new aluminium lantern has been designed to maximise the light transmission by engineering slim glazing bar profiles whilst maintaining excellent physical and energy efficiency performance. For more information on Brett Martin, please visit www.brettmartin.com or to find out how to become a registered rooflight installer visit Brett Martin’s Registered Rooflight Installer scheme

FURLONG LAUNCH BEYOND WOOL® COLLECTION

Poised to deliver excellence beyond expectation, the new British-made Beyond Wool® collection from Furlong Flooring will give customers the wool-like look they want, with the finish they need. This treat for the feet is sure to create the very best interiors and includes a great new addition with a 100% recycled yarn range to give customers a sustainable, durable and easy-to-clean carpet.

The luxury Beyond Wool® collection manufactured in Bangor, Northern Ireland, consists of five ranges with a choice of luxury twist and loop pile carpets that give customers the natural wool-like look combined with the practical benefits of stain and moth resistance. Featuring the twist pile ranges of Renaissance, Elegance & Serenity along with the loop piles of Henley & Marlow, the Beyond Wool® collection will also include the 100% recycled yarn loop pile range of Amesbury & Castlerigg.

For more information about the Beyond Wool® collection visit Furlong Flooring or contact a member of the Furlong Flooring team to discuss requirements for your next project.

AFFORDABLE QUALITY HOMES FOR HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS THERE IS A SOLUTION.

It is an inconvenient truth, but some developers do not like to build affordable homes, claiming they will suffer from significantly reduced profit margins – taking their earnings below 20% - and this is the prime excuse given at the planning stage to try and avoid the issue, according to Global Home Warranties, but says the company - it does not have to be like that. Global is taking a proactive step in helping developers to solve these problems with its new ‘Clerk of Works’ offering.

IMA’S SEVEN STEPS TO FIRE SAFETY ONLINE CPD NOW AVAILABLE

Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA) has created an online CPD – Seven Steps to Fire Safety – focusing on the context of fire in relation to the built environment and the priorities for fire safety. Aimed at anyone interested in the design, construction and operation of buildings the CPD outlines the seven steps to fire safety that will protect people and buildings, and how each step is an integral part of the building design. It will provide insight into the seven steps to fire safety and how each step is critical to the fire performance of a building.

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BRETT MARTIN’S NEW CIRCULAR GLASS ROOFLIGHT OFFERS EYE-CATCHING STYLING AND MAXIMUM DAYLIGHT

Offering elegant aesthetics and ease of installation, the new Circular Glass rooflight from Brett Martin Daylight Systems will maximise daylight and exceeds the thermal performance requirements of Building Regulations Approved Document L 2021.

With its clean internal appearance and a slimline exterior, this modern and circular rooflight is a cost-effective option that delivers visual impact into any space. The Circular Glass rooflight is available in four standard sizes ranging from 600mm to 1500mm, and bespoke sizes. It can be mounted direct to a builder’s upstand, or with a robust prefabricated insulated GRP kerb for both new build and refurbishment applications, which can reduce onsite installation time and cost.

For more information on Brett Martin’s Circular Glass rooflight, please visit www.brettmartin.com

FRASER MILLER, LANCASTER

‘Lancaster Park, in south Belfast is the largest Passivhaus residential housing development in the UK and Ireland. The development, which has no reliance on gas or oil, boasts an EPC A Rating and has solar panels included as standard; continuing to promote a cleaner, greener and leaner way of living. This awardwinning company has just released a mix of detached and semidetached houses with prices starting from £318,500. Show home opens Sundays 2-4pm.’

SMARTROOF SOLUTION MEETS NEXT WAVE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY TARGETS

For housebuilders, all new housing by 2025 will be expected to produce 75-80% less carbon emissions compared to current standards. Faced with these ambitious targets under the Future Homes Standard, it is clear that improving the building fabric will be key to meeting these new regulations. Smartroof’s offsite modular roof system meets these ambitious targets and can go a long way to lowering carbon emissions and addressing heat loss.

The new SAP 10 methodology is around the corner which means that thermal bridging and junction details will go hand-in-hand. In the past you could apply a set value to it, but now the regulators will want a great deal more information about the actual product and what those values are. With default thermal bridging figures set to increase by about a third, the Smartroof system is ready to meet those requirements and will go some way to helping our homes become more energy efficient and cut carbon emissions. To find out more download the Smartroof brochure or contact info@smartroof.co.uk

THE ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TRAINING CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE (AMTCE) AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY TEACHERS ASSOCIATION JOIN FORCES

STEM teaching in post-primary and Further Education and Training (FET) has received a significant boost with the establishment of the first official headquarters for the Engineering Technology Teachers Association (ETTA) located at LMETB’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk. It follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Martin O’Brien, chief executive of the Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) and founder of the AMTCE, and Barry Convey, chairperson of the ETTA.

PUBLICISE YOUR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENTS AND PROJECT CASE STUDIES THROUGH SPECIFY MAGAZINE

Specify magazine covers the entirety of the Northern Ireland construction market, reporting on the market developments driving the industry forward. It is read by construction-related companies throughout Northern Ireland, including the many market-leading Northern Ireland companies operating throughout the UK, Specify is a great (and cost-effective) way to reach construction industry headliners.

PRODUCT NEWS

Showcase new products and product improvements/ developments in Specify by supplying a press release, picture and contact point, hyperlinked for our digital edition.

PROJECT SHOWCASE

A full-page story describing your completed project, the challenges involved and your solutions to deliver a first-class result. Contact us to find out more. info@specifymagazine.co.uk

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SPECIFY TALKS... TO COLIN LOGAN, DESIGN DIRECTOR OF 9YARDS PROPERTY LTD

Q: Did you plan to get involved in the Construction Industry?

Buildings have always held a fascination for me, perhaps encouraged at the age of 10 when my family moved into a new house on a large housing development which continued to grow around us for the next 6 years – watching all the trades and plant provided endless entertainment! My grandfather also had a large architecture practice in Belfast and I spent happy times there at the drawing board before going to university to study design.

Q: How did you start off?

I graduated in the depths of the early 90’s recession so had a bit of a rollercoaster ride to start with. A local estate agency gave me a start as a trainee valuer, then I took up a position with a local Building Surveying practice – my first day on that job saw me surveying bomb damage at the Glenavna Hotel which had been bombed the previous evening!

Moving on from there saw me as Site Engineer then foreman at Moore Homes, followed by contract management on Civils projects, a stint with NIHE and then into Building Control. But through all of these jobs it was design that really piqued my interest so I started 9yards in 2004 and haven’t looked back.

Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

Achieving CIOB Chartered Building Consultancy status for 9yards was a real success for me and for my Company. I’ve been an active Member of the CIOB for over 30 years, I’m now a Fellow and I also sit on the Membership Application Panel for new applicants to the Chartered Building Consultancies and Companies scheme. The CIOB has always been a part of my professional life.

Other highlights include recognition in the many awards we’ve won and been finalists in, not least of which was the UK-wide Building Consultancy of the Year Awards in 2016.

But the proudest moments are still when I present a design to a client and they absolutely love it – especially when it’s a design option they hadn’t considered but that entirely fulfils their needs and exceeds their expectations.

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

John Ruskin’s advice on paying for quality has been on my office wall since day one. To paraphrase, “the common laws of business prohibit paying a little and getting a lot - it can’t be done. If you deal with the lowest bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run. And if you do that, you will have enough to pay for something better.” It’s perhaps counterintuitive in construction but I firmly believe in not only paying for quality but also charging for quality.

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

Explore the many opportunities, trades and professions within the industry and find one that excites you – there’s no point specialising in a trade or

profession that doesn’t light your fire – this industry is so varied it would be a shame to limit yourself to a part of it that doesn’t make you want to get into the office or onto the site. I count myself very lucky to be able to make a living from design as it truly is a passion for me and as the saying goes, if you do what you love you’ll never have to work a day in your life! I’d also encourage students to seek out employers offering a good work-life balance. Our industry has historically been very poor at this, with full wages typically only being made up with overtime hours and a Saturday shift, but things are improving – value yourself and don’t swap your life for a job.

Q: Do you think the Construction Sector needs more support from Stormont?

We need support from something more tangible than the mythical Stormont! And not just for the headline major projects but for all of the smaller projects, the trades and the SMEs. Construction needs the same recognition from government as Agriculture has always had – our industry is every bit as important and our people need every bit as much

recognition and support.

Q: What needs to be do ne to help the Construction Sector?

At 9yards we typically work on projects under £1 million value and at this level the big issues are taxes and regulation. We really need a new tax regime to encourage the re-use and adaptation of existing buildings, especially heritage buildings, rather than incentivising demolition.

We also need the public sector regulators to engage with the full construction process as part of the team – to move away from box-ticking and to take an interest in problem-solving.

Their recent lack of availability, urgency, consistency and expertise is a constant threat to programmes and cashflow.

Q: Tell us something surprising about yourself…

I love a good dance! My wife and I are often the first on the dancefloor, especially if we can work in a few Lindy, Charleston or East Coast swing moves. We can’t wait for our next trip to the Twinwood vintage festival!

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