Specify Magazine: September 2023

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Comment | 03

NI CONSTRUCTION GROUP CALLS FOR RETURN OF NI EXECUTIVE AND ASSEMBLY

Editor Pat Burns SHAUN BYRNE Manager

info@specifymagazine.co.uk

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Specify is published by Specify Magazine Ltd PRINTED BY GPS Colour Graphics Ltd Tel: (0)28 9070 7747 www.specifymagazine.info SEPTEMBER 2023

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NORTHERN IRELAND’S No.1 CONSTRUCTION MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2023

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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,

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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.”

SEPTEMBER 2023 digest

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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

the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, operating from its Nutt’s Corner Group, has acquired 6Harvey DIGEST: premises.

Northern Ireland renewable Kane have secured £25 million in As projects the a result ofwithin the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix industrial and line with theiras an willin continue to operate Renewables in healthcare a move the sectors, autonomous companiesgrowth say will transform ambitious plans. Kane will deliverand theindependent MEP design within Harvey Group the renewable energy sector and build contract at a Health &company Wellbeing Centre which Brian Harvey, managing director in Northern Ireland and act will provide a local community with GP and Outpatient of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboard for further services. month due to commence shortly. fit between the two expansionThe into8the multi-project aisperfect organisations. million pound UK and Ireland “We have been planning to renewable energy markets. grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an 7undisclosed DIGEST: for some time, either organically sum, will bring to 110 or through of an the number of people employed Farrans Construction has topped out onthea acquisition luxury 20-storey established player. Having worked directly by the Harvey Group in student residential scheme in Leeds city centre. A total of with Solmatix Renewables on Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

212With studio apartments will be provided the Live Oasis St a number ofincontracts, we’d a turnover of £30 million Albans kitchens, bedroom, en always been impressed with and overPlace 80 staff,development, Harvey Group featuring their engineering rigour and has overstorage 30 years’ and experience suites, living facilities. professionalism. In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and to be a natural synergy between maintenance of building services our two companies in terms of within every conceivable kind of what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB approached Richard Bell about a and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ 11 CEF CONSTRUCTION SURVEY: year ago to float the idea of our Cleanrooms, Laboratories, The latestGovernment CEF Construction Survey reflects local but only companies comingatogether, Education, and construction sector which a ifsqueeze margins there was on a good fit. After careful Healthcare . Richard and in Norahwe both agreed Annepolitical Bell founded Solmatix which consideration and uncertainty, is significantly impacting that this would indeed be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then

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.

PAGE 16

MOORE CONCRETE – LEADING THE WAY IN TECHNICAL INNOVATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group).

DEVELOPMENT as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey “In many respects, it’s a case Group gives us a level of expertise of ‘business as usual’. However, in that would have19 taken us years to PAGE real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean resources and purchasing power. our commitment to professionalism, Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire to deliver our services to to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff win-win relationship that’s good with courtesy and consideration. ” ALM HM / METSEAM SUPPLIED for our whole organisation, as Richard Bell, theSLATE founder and ELZINC ADVANCE FOR THE well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix INSTALLATION ON THIS STUNNING Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition

APARTMENT BLOCK IN PORTRUSH.

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction PAGE 35 contract at Randox Science Park production of Randox’s pioneering medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative functions. The works are the first phase of THE a major capital expenditure 13 SUSTAINABILITY AND FUTURE project by Randox to develop the OF CONSTRUCTION: former Massereene Army Barracks As much of Europe basked in record temperatures into ‘Randox Science Park’ –over a futuristic R&D and manufacturing the summer months, the construction sector reached the WItH a reputation for facility. The award-winning, crossroads of many major issues that everyone must face: excellence in constructing high international biotechnology firm, the climate crisis, urbanization quality projects, tAL energy Limited emergency, unveiledrapid its plans for an innovative andbeen the awarded social challenge of decent as well as the has a significant hub housing, on the 43 acre site earlier this contract (£3.1m) by global necessary protection of naturalyear. resources. These are medical diagnostics company Welcoming the announcement, essential issues all of those working in construction and Randox.

Damien Hughes, Director of TAL its supply chain must play an active part in helping to solve This initial contract is for the Limited commented: “We are these issues. construction of a new facility for delighted to have been awarded

this contract with Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create and global level. Through the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export professionalism of our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of the strength of our expertise in the cutting-edge research, development healthcare sector.” and diagnostic manufacture, covering SUBMITTEDconditions FOR £150M ThePLANNING project will be delivered such as cancer, stroke and to BIMBUSINESS level 2 in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a PARK IN ANTRIM with the design team Ostick and significant boost to the local economy Williams Architects, Rainey & Best, through new job creation. We very Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller much look forward to working with Consulting Engineers and Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver Hutchison Consulting. the high quality infrastructure we Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

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Contents |05

digest

06|

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

34renewable CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY 16 CONCRETE – LEADINGacquires THE NIMOORE M&E services company energy specialists the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based COMMENT: WAY: turnoverMoore of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, Ballymena based concrete specialists, Concrete operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, has acquired are working hard to develop new environmental and premises.

Northern Ireland renewable sustainable products for their customers. with As a result Working of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix will continueistoleading operate as an Renewables in a move the the company Queens University Belfast, the autonomous and independent companies say will transform way in this sector. As a company, Moore Concrete has a company within Harvey Group the renewable energy sector world-class vision. In line with this,Brian their goal is to be an Harvey, managing director in Northern Ireland and act industry leader in friendly precast concrete of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboard forenvironmentally further a perfect fit between the two expansion into the multimanufacture. organisations. million pound UK and Ireland “We have been planning to renewable energy markets. grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an for some time, either organically 20 NILAN.GREEN FUTURE OF undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 – THE or through the acquisition of an the number of people employed HIGH PERFORMANCEestablished CONSTRUCTION: player. Having worked directly by the Harvey Group in With theIreland energy showingwith no Solmatix signs ofRenewables abating, energy on Northern andcrisis Great Britain. efficient current hot topic a number of contracts, we’d in With a building turnover ofsolutions £30 millionare the always been impressed withand and over 80 staff,We Harvey Group construction. spoke to sustainable building guru their engineering rigour and has over 30 years’ experience regional agent for Nilan, Garrett Quinn, to discuss the professionalism. In fact, there seemed in the design, installation and current state of energy efficiency in abuilding and what he to be natural synergy between maintenance of building services sees itsconceivable future. kind of our two companies in terms of withinfor every what we do and how we do it. I building type throughout NI, GB approached Richard Bell about a and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ 23 BUILDING year ago to float the idea of our Cleanrooms, Laboratories,REGULATIONS: The NI Department of Finance companies has launched consultation comingatogether, but only Education, Government and if there was a goodtofit.fire Aftersafety careful Healthcare . Richard and Norahon amending Building Regulations in relation we both agreed Anne Bell founded Solmatix measures in a range of building consideration types, predominantly that this would indeed be mutually Renewables in 2008, and since then

residential buildings as well energy efficiency requirements; while changes to permitted development rights for domestic heat pumps have also been introduced.

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

35 DIGEST:

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 Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Richard saw Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth successful consultation processBell, which extensive Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). engagement with local stakeholders, the planning application as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, has been submitted for more than 900,000sq of new customers, suppliersft and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey build gives warehouse and distribution space, redevelopment “In manythe respects, it’s a case Group us a level of expertise of ‘business as usual’. that would havewarehouses taken us years and to a rooftop of existing solar farm.However, in real terms, being part of this larger acquire otherwise. organisation will give us access to “Harvey Group and Solmatix enhanced technical skills, financial share similar values, by which I mean 38commitment INCREMENTUM resources and purchasing power. our to professionalism, LAUNCHED Ultimately I believe this will lead our desire toPayne deliver our services Jonathan is the newtoincoming Chair of the to greater growth and investment the very highest standards, and the CIOB Northern Ireland Hub, and if that’s not enough within our operations, as well as importance we place on treating our in terms of change, he has also recently founded a more jobs and job security. It’s a customers, our suppliers and our staff specialist consultancy andrelationship trainingthat’s company, win-win good with courtesyconstruction and consideration. ” for our whole organisation, as Incrementum Richard Bell, the(Europe) founder andLtd. well as the economy of Northern managing director of Solmatix Ireland. “ Renewables described the acquisition

46 first SPECIFY TALKS construction TO… Lisburn firm TAL awarded the major In this edition we interview Colin Logan, Design Director contract Randox Science Park of 9yards Property Ltd about paying for quality and enjoying 29 NEW RICSat CHAIRMAN Inspiring the next generation ofproduction chartered surveyors is of Randox’s pioneering essential to addressing Northern Ireland’s construction medical diagnostic products and will also include associated administrative skills deficit and creating the world-class infrastructure that functions.

Thenewly works are the first our economy and society needs, says the appointed phase of a major capital expenditure regional board chair of RICS in project Northern Ireland, Martin

by Randox to develop the Doherty. former Massereene Army Barracks

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

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.

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

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.”

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

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

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

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

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

DIGEST 6 digest

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KANE SECURES £25 GOODSTONE LIVING MILLION IN DIVERSIFIED APPOINTS McALEER & Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year MARKET SECTORS RUSHE ON EDINBURGH growth plan in UK and Ireland.

8 month project is due to Kane have secured BUILD-TO-RENT PROJECT commence shortly. £25 million in NI M&E services company renewable energy specialists Within the industrialacquires sector,

projects within Newtownabbey-based the industrial M&E services company, and healthcare Harvey Group, has acquired sectors, in line with Northern Ireland renewable their ambitious energy specialists, Solmatix growth plans.

Renewables in a move the Kane’s in-house companies say will transform team haveenergy the sector the renewable transferable skillset in Northern Ireland and act and expertise as a springboard for to further deliver and expansiondesign into the multiprefabrication million pound UK and Ireland solutions in all renewable energy markets. market sectors.

The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, will bring to 110

Kane will deliver the number of people employed the MEPbydesign directly the Harvey Group in and build contract atNorthern a HealthIreland and Great Britain.

With a turnover of £30 million & Wellbeing and over 80 staff, Harvey Group Centre which hasprovide over 30 years’ experience will a local in thecommunity design, installation and with GP and of building services maintenance Outpatient within every conceivable kind of services.

Thethroughout NI, GB building type and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/

Kane will deliver their the company has grown to achieve a innovative design and offsite turnover £6 million, 30 staff solutionsoffor a heavywith industrial operating Works from its Nutt’s Corner project. on site will premises. commence in November 2023.

As a result of the deal, Solmatix Cathal McMullan, Managing Director, Kane commented: will continue to operate as an “Kane are delighted to have autonomous and independent secured projects in targeted company within Harvey Group diversified sectors, in line Brian Harvey, managing director with our growth strategy. We of Harvey Group, said there was have a highly skilled team who a perfect between the skills two to have thefittransferable organisations. deliver innovative design and “We have beencapabilities planning to in a manufacturing wide range of sectors”. 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

Cleanrooms, Laboratories, GRAHAM SECURES ITS PLACE Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahON THE NEW £4.5BN SOUTHERN Anne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then FRAMEWORK CONSTRUCTION

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 production ofhealthcare, Randox’s pioneering education, leisure, medical diagnostic products will emergency services and and local government. also include associated administrative

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

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

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

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

Goodstone Living has appointed contractor McAleer & Rushe to build at least 338 homes for its next generation build-to-rent this contract with Randox, one of residential scheme Northern Ireland’s most dynamic in Leith, Edinburgh. and exciting businesses on a local

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

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power.

Ultimately I believe this will lead to greater growth and investment within our operations, as well as more jobs and job security. It’s a win-win relationship that’s good for our whole organisation, as well as the economy of Northern Ireland. “ industrial Docklands in historic

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 Shane McCullagh, Contracts contract at Randox Science Park Director at McAleer & Rushe

Graham has been awarded all of the lots applied for, the highest value bands for WItH a reputation projects in London, for South excellence in constructing high West, and South East England.

SCF is aprojects, leading tAL construction quality Limited procurement framework has been awarded a significant delivered(£3.1m) by the public sector contract by global for the public sector in the medical diagnostics company South of England (SW, SE and Randox.

London). It has delivered over initialworth contractofis combined for the £8This billion construction construction of aschemes, new facilityhelping for

functions. The works are the first

Rod Graham phaseMcMullan, of a major capital expenditure Director for the Framework project by Randox to develop the said: “We are delighted and former Massereene Barracks excited by gainingArmy a much into ‘Randox –a sought afterScience place Park’ on SCF futuristic R&Dwhich and manufacturing Construct is an industry-leading framework facility. The award-winning, achieving from twointernationalvalue biotechnology firm, stage procurement a unveiled its plans for anwith innovative collaborative and flexible hub on the 43 acre site earlier this approach.

This follows on from year. recent success in gaining our Welcoming theSCF announcement, a place on the Residential Damien Hughes, TAL framework andDirector adds toofour portfolio, offering “We and growing Limited commented: are presence South delighted toinhave beenEngland.” awarded

and level. Through the quality Theglobal waterfront scheme, of our work and the dedication branded as ‘Dockside’ and and professionalism of our team TAL has designed by 3DReid Architects, will have panoramic views steadily grown over the last 34 years andthis resident space and contractamenity award reinforces including lounge inand the strengthrooftop of our expertise the dining, co-working areas, and a healthcare sector.” fitness centre.

The project will be delivered to BIMhomes level 2 will in partnership The be spread with the four designapartment team Ostickblocks and across on a 2.5Architects, acre siteRainey and there Williams & Best, will beConsulting, 1.3 acresDelap of new public Doran & Waller realm space.

This includes Consulting Engineers and Charles pocket parks and a publicly Hutchison Consulting. accessible boardwalk created to Dr Peterthe FitzGerald, connect Albert Managing Docks, the

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comments: “Goodstone Director at Randox commented: “The and McAleerof&Randox RusheScience share development aPark commitment to making is core to our plans to create a positive impact in the innovative diagnostics, to improve communities we operate and manufacturing efficiency to export Dockside is clear evidence of high-value healthcare capabilities to that in action. world markets. This state-of-the-art

There synergy between premisesiswill become a centre our of community and skills approach cutting-edge research, development and Goodstone’s social value and diagnostic manufacture, covering strategy, both of which are conditions such as cancer, stroke grounded in principles of and heart disease. We will also provide a socio-economic elevation, significant boost toprotection the local economy environmental and sustainability.

We will through new job creation.

Webe very delivering the project in a way much look forward to working with that hasthis long-lasting benefits TAL on initial contract to deliver for residents and local people the high infrastructure we and we quality look forward to getting require. ” 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.

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

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DIGEST 7

digest

FARRANS TOPS OUT 20-STOREY STUDENT RESIDENTIAL LEEDS as part of 5 year Harvey GroupSCHEME acquiresIN Solmatix the project due to Farrans Construction with complete in September growth in UK and2023.Ireland. has topped outplan on Cathal Montague, regional

a luxury 20-storey director for Farrans student residential NI M&E services company Construction, said: acquires renewable energy specialists “The topping out milestone, scheme in Leeds the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based particularly on a building of city centre for client turnover with 30 staff M&E services company, this size,ofis£6a million, good moment Infinity Construction operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, has acquired for the team involved to take Enterprise Limited, premises.

Northern Ireland renewable a step back and take stock of part of the YPP As ahas result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix what been achieved so far.

Group.

It has beentoa operate challenging will continue as anyear Renewables in a move the companies say will transform

Athe total of 212 studio renewable energy sector apartments will be provided in in Northern Ireland and act the Live Oasis St Albans Place as a springboard for further development, featuring kitchens, expansioneninto the storage multibedroom, suites, million UKThe andrange Ireland and livingpound facilities. of renewablespaces energywill markets. communal include a gym,The meeting rooms, acquisition, for anmultimedia room, communal undisclosed sum, willlounge bring toand 110 kitchen, study spaces,employed wellbeing the number of people lounge and eighth floor roof directly by the Harvey Group in terrace.

The property will be Northern and Great aligned to Ireland the existing LiveBritain.

With a turnover of £30 million Oasis brand. and over 80 staff, Harvey Group

has over 30 builds years’ experience The design on the client’s reputation for and highin the design, installation quality studio-based maintenance of buildingstudent services accommodation, with akind of within every conceivable luxurious interior design and building type throughout NI, GB enhanced amenity space. The and RoI, includingisPharmaceutical/ fit-out process underway,

Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

for the construction industry autonomous and independent and we are pleased be on company within Harvey to Group programme with this project.

It Brian Harvey, managing director is a testament to the hard work of Harvey Group, said there was of the project team and the aexcellent perfect fit collaboration between the twothat has organisations. been taking place between our “We architects, have been planning client, supply tochain and the management company, grow our renewables involvement YPP. for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an “The cutting-edge design has established player. Having worked relied exclusively on precast with Solmatix Renewables construction from the on first afloor number of contracts, upwards with we’d a façade always with designbeen andimpressed high-quality their engineering rigour material palette.

We and have been able to optimise the professionalism.

In fact, there seemed speed of construction using to be a natural synergy between innovative technology without our two companies in terms of compromising on the luxury what we do and how we do it. I finish. The precast panels offer approached Richard Bellapproach about a a more sustainable year ago to float the idea of our companies coming together, but only if there was a good fit. After careful consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

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

“Harvey Group and Solmatix share similar values, by which I mean ourconstruction commitment todelivery professionalism, to as well as working a tightto our desire to deliverwell ourin services site footprint minimising the very highest by standards, and the the lorry deliveries. haveour a importance we place onWe treating lot of experience of delivering customers, our suppliers and our staff with courtesy and consideration.”

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

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 additionalofbase in Antrim and production Randox’s pioneering new facilities in Portadown, medical diagnostic products and will which will increase its also include associated workshop capacity administrative by over functions.

The works are the30 first 100% and see it create new jobs, bothcapital of which will phase of a major expenditure accommodate contracts project

by Randoxits to new develop the for theme parks Army and other former Massereene Barracks immersive experiences around into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a the world. futuristic R&D and manufacturing Colm O’Farrell, Executive facility.

The award-winning, Chairman, The Deluxe Group international explains: biotechnology firm, “We have seenforsolid growth unveiled its plans an innovative within our43bespoke hub on the acre site joinery earlier this division over the last five year. years, completing prestigious Welcoming theasannouncement, projects such the luxury Damien Hughes, DirectorYard of TALand hotel Great Scotland Limited “We are opulentcommented: branded residences includingtoThe Office delighted haveOld beenWar awarded

in London, but the growth of the emerging experience economy is driving unprecedented international demand for our specialist skills in design this contract withand Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The prefabrication of Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science themed attractions. and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create “Northern Ireland has and global Through the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve gained anlevel. international reputation for the filmdedication and of our work and manufacturing efficiency to export and TV production professionalism of our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to but people be last 34 years steadily grownmight over the world markets. This state-of-the-art surprised that some and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of of the world’s most the strength of our expertise cutting-edge research, development exciting attractions are in the healthcare ” We and diagnostic manufacture, covering being builtsector. here.

Thelearned project will be the delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and have over years to tell a to BIM how level 2best in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a story authentic with thethrough design team Ostick and significant boost to the local economy interiors, whetherRainey it’s an Williams Architects, & Best, through new job creation. We very iconic movie or whiskey Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller much look forward to working with brand brought to life or Consulting Engineers and Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver reimagining a historic Colm O’Farrell Executive Chairman Hutchisonas Consulting. the high quality infrastructure we building a hotel or The Deluxe Group residence.”

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

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

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

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power. technically challenging projects of this nature, in athis central Ultimately I believe will lead location, a small site to greater with growth and investment footprint using as Modern within our and operations, well as Methods of Construction.” 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. “

EXPERIENCE PAYS OFF FOR THE DELUXE GROUP 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 WItH a reputation forsector as it secures over high excellence in constructing $40m of export quality projects, tAL Limited contracts with top has been awarded a significant US clients. contract (£3.1m) by global

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

medical diagnostics company The company, which has been Randox. operating for more than 50 This initial contract is for the years and is a specialist in construction of a new facility for upmarket interior fit-outs

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MIVAN ANNOUNCES RECORD Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year growth plan in UK andOF Ireland.

ORDER INTAKE £100M

NI M&E services company acquires renewable energy specialists Antrim-based Mivan Auriens Chelsea Mivan, has the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based announced a record turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, order operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey intake Group, hasin acquired excess £100m premises.

Northern of Ireland renewable following an Solmatix As a result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, increase ina demand will continue to operate as an Renewables in move the for its services, autonomous and independent companies say will transform particularly in the 5* company within Harvey Group the renewable energy sector hotel andIreland premium Brian Harvey, managing director in Northern and act residential of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboardsectors for furtherin London. a perfect fit between the two expansion into the multimillion pound UK and Ireland

organisations.

Turnover for 2023 is now set to “We have been planning to renewable energy markets. be over £70m. The business is grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an also on target with its strategic for some time, either organically undisclosed will bring turnover to 110 growth plansum, to increase or through the acquisition of an numberbyof2025. people employed tothe£100m directly by the Harvey Group in Northern Ireland andrecently Great Britain.

100 new jobs have beenWith announced a turnovertoofsupport £30 million Mivan’s expansion and overcontinued 80 staff, Harvey Group and phase of a multihas the overnext 30 years’ experience million-pound capital investment in the design, installation and programme is also underway. maintenance of building services within every conceivable kind of John Cunningham, Chief building type GB Executive of throughout Mivan, said,NI,“This and RoI,performance including Pharmaceutical/ strong is down to Cleanrooms, Laboratories, our clear strategy and a really Education, Government andthe exceptional team across business and at every This Healthcare . Richard andlevel.

Norahhas resulted in a high level of Anne Bell founded Solmatix repeat business from UK’s Renewables in 2008, andthe since then

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.”

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 Elms a brand new between 5* hotel in London, due for completion our two companies in terms of by the end ofand 2023, what we do how we do it. I • Fitout projects approached Richard worth Bell about a more £8m Prime year agothan to float thefor idea of our Development Sir Robert companies comingand together, but only McAlpine for the Peninsula Hotel if there was a good fit. After careful on Grosvenor Place in London consideration both agreed for bespokewe joinery for front-ofthat this areas. would indeed be mutually house

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

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

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

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

• A multi-million-pound contract for a 5* hotel in Mayfair • Multiple contracts at Chelsea Barracks – the exclusive private residences in London – the latest of which is due for completion production Randox’s this contract with Randox, one of by the endof of 2023 pioneering

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

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will give us access to enhanced technical skills, financial resources and purchasing power.

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

Lisburn firm TAL awarded the first major construction contract at Randox Science Park “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 WItH a reputation for people and our facilities to the excellence in constructing high benefit of our customers and quality projects, tAL Limited stakeholders.” has been awarded a significant contract (£3.1m) by global The record order intake includes: medical diagnostics company Randox.

• This A high specification initial contract is forfitout the project worth in excess of £17m construction of a new facility for

for Multiplex for One Nine

medical diagnostic products and will • A include multi-million-pound contract also associated administrative to refurbish and fitout Pearl functions.

The works are the first Assurance House in expenditure the phase of a major capital centre of Belfast. Scheduled project

by Randox this to develop the for completion summer, former Army Barracks MivanMassereene will be responsible for into Science a the‘Randox restoration ofPark’ the –historic futuristic and manufacturing façade, R&D the creation of ground floor The retailaward-winning, units, open-plan facility. offices, roofbiotechnology terrace andfirm, a rear international extension, as well asinnovative internal unveiled its plans for an finishes and specialist joinery. hub on the 43 acre site earlier this year.

The marine sector also remains Welcoming theprojects announcement, buoyant.

New include Damien Hughes, Director a £2.5m interior fitoutofofTAL Limited commented: “We are a 34-metre superyacht at Pendennis Shipyard in Falmouth. delighted to have been awarded

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 teamMD TAL has John Cunningham, Mivan steadily grown over the last 34 years and this has contract awardcompleted reinforces Mivan recently its strength latest contract on The inWorld the of our expertise the – the largest, residential healthcare sector.private ” ship the planet – to fitout its Theon project will be delivered luxury apartments and public to BIM level 2 in partnership areas. Over the past 12 years, it with design team Ostick and of has the delivered around £20m Williams Architects, & Best, contracts on thisRainey one-of-a-kind Doran vessel.Consulting, Delap & Waller Consulting Engineers and Charles Mivan’s commitment Hutchison Consulting. to investing inDr state-of-the-art Peter FitzGerald,technology Managing for

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Director at Randox commented: “The development of Randox Science Park is core to our plans to create innovative diagnostics, to improve manufacturing efficiency to export high-value healthcare capabilities to world markets. This state-of-the-art premises become a centre of at bespokewill joinery manufacture its 110,000sqft factory in Antrim cutting-edge research, development continues. and diagnostic manufacture, covering conditions such as cancer, stroke and Its latest investment totals heart disease. We will also provide a around £1m and includes the significant to on the line local dryer economy addition boost of new for through new jobspraying creation. equipment We very its automatic much working with and alook 6m forward five axistoCNC machine, TAL on will this initial contract by to deliver which be installed Spring 2023 further improve capacity the hightoquality infrastructure we and efficiency. require. ”

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ARBOUR HOUSING ANNOUNCES AN ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT Harvey Group£20M acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year Arbour Housing is growth plan in UK and Ireland. set to create 270

new social and NI M&E homes services company acquires renewable energy specialists affordable across Northern the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based Ireland as company, part turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services of a £20 million operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, has acquired investment premises.

Northern Irelandproject, renewable supported bySolmatix As a result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Danske will continue to operate as an RenewablesBank. in a move the companies say will transform

The will enable thefacility renewable energyArbour sector Housing to access housing in Northern Ireland and act development grants from the as a springboard for further Department for Communities, expansionpublic into the combining andmultiprivate millionto pound UK and Ireland funding create a total renewableinenergy markets. investment new homes of some The£40m. acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, will bring to 110 Formed in 1978, Arbour the number of people employed Housing owns and manages directly by the Harvey Group in over 1,200 homes throughout Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Northern Ireland, with larger With a turnover £30 million concentrations of of stock in and over 80 Lurgan staff, Harvey Portadown, andGroup Newry.

The project in its new has flagship over 30 years’ experience development strategy and will see in the design, installation 98maintenance new socialofhouses building being services created at a conceivable site on Buncrana within every kind of Road in Derry-Londonderry, building type throughout NI, GB helping to meet high demand andnew RoI, housing including Pharmaceutical/ for in the area.

Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

autonomous and independent company within Harvey Group Brian Harvey, managing director of Harvey Group, said there was a perfect fit between the two organisations.

“We have been planning to grow our renewables involvement for time, either organically Thesome Northern Ireland Housing Executive waiting list indicates or through the acquisition of an there are player. over Having 2,000 worked applicants established for housing in the Westbank with Solmatix Renewables on area of Derry, in which the a number of contracts, we’d Buncrana Road scheme is always been impressed with located. their engineering rigour and professionalism.

In fact, there seemed Projects supported by the new £20 facility to be million a naturalDanske synergy between willtwo helpcompanies to create up to of190 our in terms construction support what we do andjobs how and we do it. I more than 290 associated jobs approached Richard Bell about a in the wider economy over the 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

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.

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

next four years. The new homes

beneficial.

From perspective, will be built tomy high energy having Solmatix part of Harvey efficiency and assustainability Group gives us a level of expertise standards. that would have taken us years to Kieranotherwise.

Matthews, Chief acquire Executive at Arbour Housing, “Harvey Group and Solmatix said: “Our vision at Arbour share similar values, by which I mean Housing is to support local our commitmentand to professionalism, communities improve our desire lives. to deliver ourthis, services people’s To do we to must increase the number the very highest standards, and the of affordable importance we homes place on around treating our Northernour Ireland, which is why customers, suppliers and our staff with courtesy and consideration.”

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

this new development plan, as great newsbyfora Solmatix, supported financialitspackage customers, suppliers and from Danske Bank, is staff. needed.

“In manyisrespects, it’s £7.5m a case into “Arbour investing the new housing of ‘business as usual’.development However, in in Road realBuncrana terms, being part in of Derry. this larger Provision high to organisationof willthis givenew, us access quality housing stock will help enhanced technical skills, financial meet the high demand for resources and purchasing power. social housing in the area.

The Ultimatelyfeatures I believe this will lead scheme a wide range of one togrowth four bed to greater and properties, investment which willoperations, be suitable for as a within our as well range of families.” 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. “

SUCCESSFUL CIOB ANNUAL DINNER EVENT IN BELFAST

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.

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

Master of Ceremonies was John Campbell, BBC Northern Ireland Economics and WItH a reputation for Business Editor. Speakers were excellence in constructing high Roger Gillespie, Chair of the CIOB Northern Ireland Hub quality projects, tAL Limited committee, as wella as Caroline has been awarded significant Gumble,(£3.1m) Chief Executive contract by global Officer of the CIOB. Popular TV medical diagnostics company personality Paddy Raff provided Randox. the post-dinner entertainment.

This initial of contract is for the Sponsors the event were Hays, Off the Creative, construction of aWall 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 theTraining 43 acre site earlier this Tughans, LMS, Quigg year.

Golden and Keystone Lintels.

The CIOB isthethe world’s largest Welcoming announcement, and most influential Damien Hughes, Directorprofessional of TAL body for construction Limited commented: “We are management and leadership. delighted to have been awarded

this contract with Randox, one of Director at Randox commented: “The Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create and global level. Through the quality innovative diagnostics, to improve of our work and the dedication and manufacturing efficiency to export professionalism of our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to steadily grown over the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of the strength of our expertise in the cutting-edge research, development healthcare sector.” and diagnostic manufacture, covering The project will be delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and to BIM level 2 in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a with Included the design team Ostick and significant boost to the local economy in the photograph (attached) left to right are: Williams Best, through new- Vice-Chair job creation.

We very PaddyArchitects, Raff - afterRainey dinner & entertainer, Jonathan Payne of the CIOB Northern IrelandDelap Hub committee, Gumble Executive Officerwith of Doran Consulting, & Waller Carlinemuch look- Chief forward to working the CIOB, Roger Gillespie - Chair of the CIOB anddeliver John Consulting Engineers and Charles TAL Belfast on thisHub initialcommittee, contract to Campbell - Master of Ceremonies and BBC Northern Ireland Economics and Hutchison Consulting. the high quality infrastructure we Business Editor.

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing require.”

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INDUSTRY TRAINING SERVICES OPENS FOR BUSINESS IN DUBLIN Harvey Group acquires Solmatix as part of 5 year

Industry Training Services (ITS), a provider of health and NI safety M&Etraining services company acquires renewable energy specialists solutions to the the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based construction, civil turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, engineering, operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, hasutilities acquired and manufacturing premises.

Northern Ireland renewable sectors has opened As a result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix aRenewables base ininDublin as will continue to operate as an a move the the company sees a autonomous and independent companies say will transform demand forenergy health company within Harvey Group the renewable sector Brian Harvey, managing director Northerntraining Ireland and act &insafety of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboard for further within the Republic a perfect fit between the two into the multiofexpansion Ireland.

growth plan in UK and Ireland.

million pound UK and Ireland

ITS was established in 2000 renewable energy markets. by civil The engineer, acquisition,Brendan for an Crealey whosum, identified undisclosed will bringthe to 110 need for a professional health the number of people employed and safety company directly by training the Harvey Group in for the construction sector Northern Ireland and Great Britain. in Northern Ireland after With on a turnover of £30 million working large motorway and and over 80 staff, HarveyinGroup construction projects the has over years’the experience UK. Since30then, company in the design, installation and has grown across the north and into border regions with maintenance of building services a within purpose-built health and every conceivable kind of safety training campus NI, on GB 12 building type throughout acres near Portadown, Co. and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ Cleanrooms, Laboratories, Education, Government and Healthcare . Richard and NorahAnne Bell founded Solmatix Renewables in 2008, and since then

organisations.

“We have been planning to grow our renewables involvement for some time, either organically or through the acquisition of an established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on The company’s aArmagh. number of contracts, we’d training services also highly always beenare impressed with mobile as they can provide bespoke their engineering rigour and professional training courses professionalism.

In fact, there seemedat client sites anywhere across the to be a natural synergy between island of Ireland. our two companies in terms of what we doCrealey and howcommented, we do it. I Brendan 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

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

beneficial. From my perspective, having Solmatix as part of Harvey Group gives us a level of expertise that taken us years “In would the 23have years since we to acquire otherwise. were first established, ITS has “Harveythe Group and Solmatix become leading supplier of training courses for a Iwide share similar values, by which mean range of industries across our commitment to professionalism, Northern However, our desire to Ireland. deliver our services to throughout those years of the very highest standards, and the growth we have had a sizeable importance we place on treating our customers, our suppliers and our staff with courtesy and consideration.”

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

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

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘businessof as companies usual’. However, in number from real of become this larger theterms, southbeing thatpart have organisation give us to long-term will clients ofaccess ITS. We see establishing a permanent enhanced technical skills, financial presenceand in purchasing Dublin aspower. a key step resources in enabling us tothis better serve Ultimately I believe will lead our customers in Dublin and to greater growth and investment the wider region.” 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. “

QMAC AWARDED LEADING EDGE TECHNOLOGY RESTAURANT ASSISTING NI WATER IN LEAKAGE DETECTION REFURBISHMENT PROJECT Lisburn TAL awarded firsthas major construction NI Water announced plans to expand A new project firm is set to commence at the Ulster the the use of innovative satellite leak detection University Belfast Campus. The contract, which technology. The move comes after a series of was awarded toat QMAC Construction Ltd, will contract Randox Science Park result in the provision of a refurbished Academy productionground of Randox’s floor pioneering bar / restaurant on the existing medical diagnostic products and will within Block BD. The work will comprise: Internal

demolition.

• Alterations, modifications, and refurbishment of the existing bar / restaurant area including new external doors,for the WItH a reputation replacement of the floor, wall, excellence in constructing high and ceiling finishes, as well as quality projects, tAL Limited the replacement of the bar and has been awarded a significant counter. contract (£3.1m) by • Reconfiguration ofglobal the medical diagnostics company washrooms.

•Testing & commissioning of Randox. new ThisM&E initial services. contract is for the construction of a new facility for

The work is set to be

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.

Welcoming the announcement, Damien Hughes, Director of TAL Limited commented: “We are undertaken during summer delighted to have beenthe awarded

months.

successful trials which assisted the company in

this contract withleaks Randox, on one of Directornetwork. at Randox commented: “The detecting their water Northern Ireland’s most dynamic development of Randox Science and exciting businesses on a local Park is core to our plans to create and thewith quality innovative diagnostics, to improve Theglobal leakslevel. areThrough detected of dedication Satellite and ofthe ourassistance work and the manufacturing efficiency to export mounted SAR professionalism of technology our team TAL has high-value healthcare capabilities to which grown identifies steadily over water the last 34 years world markets. This state-of-the-art spreading from underground and this contract award reinforces premises will become a centre of pipes. This innovative the strength of can our penetrate expertise in the cutting-edge research, development technology healthcare sector. ” and diagnostic manufacture, covering below the ground surface.

The project will be delivered conditions such as cancer, stroke and NIBIM Water teams work to level 2leakage in partnership heart disease. We will also provide a around the clock locating with the design team Ostick andand significant boost to the local economy repairing issues, Rainey with twentyWilliams Architects, & Best, through new job creation. We very sevenConsulting, thousandDelap kilometres are located across kilometres Doran & Wallerof much look forward to working with water mains to maintain, this is of fields and hilly areas. It Consulting Engineers and Charles TAL on this initial contract to deliver a mammoth task. A large part can therefore be extremely Hutchison Consulting. the high qualitytoinfrastructure we of Northern Ireland is rural, challenging locate leaks Dr Peter FitzGerald, require. therefore, many of Managing our pipes when ”they do occur.

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CONSTRUCTION SECTOR IN NI FACING INTO DUAL HEADWINDS OF Solmatix LIMITED as PIPELINE Harvey Group acquires part of 5AND year STUBBORN growth planINFLATION in UK and Ireland.

The NI latest M&ECEF services company acquires renewable energy specialists Construction the company has grown to achieve a Newtownabbey-based Survey reflects a turnover of £6 million, with 30 staff M&E services company, local construction operating from its Nutt’s Corner Harvey Group, has acquired sector in which a premises.

Northern Ireland renewable squeeze on margins As a result of the deal, Solmatix energy specialists, Solmatix and political will continue to operate as an Renewables in a move the uncertainty, autonomous and independent companies say willwhich transform isthesignificantly company within Harvey Group renewable energy sector impacting the and act Brian Harvey, managing director in Northern Ireland pipeline of public of Harvey Group, said there was as a springboard for further works, having a perfect fit between the two expansionis into the multian increasingly organisations. million pound UK and Ireland “We have been planning to renewable energy markets. detrimental Celebrating the acquisition (from left) Norah-Anne Bell, Richard Bell, Brian Harvey, Gareth grow our renewables involvement The acquisition, for an effect on business Booth (Financial Controller, Harvey Group). for some time, either organically undisclosed sum,over will bringthe to 110 prospects as great news for Solmatix, its beneficial. From my perspective, or through the acquisition of an the number of people employed coming year. customers, suppliers and staff. having Solmatix as part of Harvey directly by the Harvey Group in

Northern Ireland andcollected Great Britain.

The survey, which dataWith froma turnover NI-headquartered of £30 million firms which haveHarvey a collective and over 80 staff, Group annual turnover has over 30 years’ of experience approximately £2bn, covers in the design, installation and the last 12 months (2022/23) maintenance of building services and reflects on many of the key within everythat conceivable kind of civil challenges contractors, building type throughout NI, GB are engineers and homebuilders and RoI, including Pharmaceutical/ facing currently.

Cleanrooms, Laboratories,

The main Government findings included: Education, and Healthcare . Richard and Norah-

• Anne WhileBell over 50%Solmatix of founded respondents turnover Renewables insaid 2008,their and since then 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 WItH a reputation for construction as an attractive career pathin constructing high excellence

established player. Having worked with Solmatix Renewables on a number of contracts, we’d always been impressed with impact causingrigour financial their engineering and concern or a critical impact leading professionalism.

In fact, there seemed to contractual or business to be a natural synergy between risk. In the NI public sector our two companies terms of market since theinintroduction what we do and how we do it.

I of PAN 01/21 in August 2021, approached Richard Bell has about a at least £38 million been year float the idea of our paidago outtoto firms on existing public sector contracts to only help companies coming together, but pressures and ifwith thereinflationary was a good fit.

After careful materials delays consideration we both agreed that this would indeed be mutually

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

Group gives us a level of expertise that would have taken us years to acquire otherwise.

“Harveyand Group margins lackandofSolmatix pipeline.

“Although we can pointI to share similar values, by which mean a majority of our members our commitment to professionalism, telling ustothat their our desire deliver ourturnover services to is growing, it is becoming the very highest standards, and the increasingly difficult to importance placeofonthis treating complete we much workourat customers, suppliers and our staff anything our other than breakeven. with courtesy consideration. ” That, in the and short to medium term, canBell, have negative Richard thevery founder and consequences pipeline of managing director ifofthe Solmatix works doesn’t return to some Renewables described the acquisition

level of buoyancy.

“With the market in Britain being a very mixed picture and the proposed huge levels of public investment in Ireland yet o More secure pipeline to truly hit the ground, it is vital o Increased profit margins that the local pipeline is healthy o Better contract terms production of Randox’s this contract withthat Randox, one of – something we know Looking to the nextpioneering 6 months, medical products and willare: Northern mostfrom dynamic couldn’t Ireland’s be further the the keydiagnostic challenges identified also include associated administrative and exciting on a local truth.

For businesses the first time in as o Political uncertainty/no longglobal as anyone in thethe sector functioning functions.

The Executive works are the first and level. Through qualitycan many Government o Lack pipeline Northern phase of aofmajor capitalinexpenditure ofremember, our work and the dedication and Clients entered this financial Irelandby Randox to develop the project professionalism of our team TAL has year with no discretionary o Inflation former Massereene Army Barracks steadily grown over the lastto 34 the years expenditure – leading o Access to skilled labour into ‘Randox Science Park’ – a and this contractofaward cancellation hugereinforces swathes futuristic R&D andManaging manufacturing the strength of our expertise in the of tendering activity.

When you Mark Spence, facility.

The award-winning, healthcare sector. add to this the” context of our Director of the Construction overall public investment Employersbiotechnology Federation, firm, said of international The project willcapital be delivered being at the level annually the results: quality projects, tAL Limited unveiled its plans for an innovative to BIM level 2 insame partnership Materials shortages are as itthe was, in cash as has been awarded a significant hub on the 43 acre site earlier this with design team terms, Ostick and largely resolved: 85% said any “While the challenge of inflation 2007/08 then we face a very contract (£3.1m) by global year.

Williams Architects, Rainey & issues were now manageable. is being felt across the economy, difficult period ahead. Best, medical diagnostics company Welcoming announcement, Doran Consulting, Delap & Waller However inflationary issues this survey the points to two very Randox.

Damien TAL Consulting Engineers and Charles show no sign of abating: 55% “Unquestionably, there are specificHughes, factorsDirector in ourofsector Thisthese initial contract is for the “We are Hutchison Consulting. said were having a serious Limited opportunities – from the City which commented: are of concern – tight

“In many respects, it’s a case of ‘business as usual’. However, in real terms, being part of this larger organisation will Shared give us access Deals to the Islandto funds totechnical the prospects for enhanced skills, financial major reform of the governance resources and purchasing power. and financing of this NI Water Ultimately I believe will lead and the Housing Executive – but to greater growth and investment the true realisation of these can within our operations, as well as and only come with a restored more and job security.

It’s a fully jobs functioning NI Executive win-win relationship that’scan good and Assembly which chart forward path ofaspublic for our a whole organisation, investment in which all can have well as the economy of Northern confidence.

Ireland. “

“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 Director at that Randox commented: “The measure CEF negotiated development of Randox Science with the Department of Finance Park is coretotomitigate our plansagainst to createthe difficulties of material shortages innovative diagnostics, to improve and cost increases, manufacturing efficiency our to export membershealthcare have reported antoat high-value capabilities least £38 million benefit to the world state-of-the-art publicmarkets. sectorThis projects they have premises will become been working on. a centre of

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

construction of a new facility for

delighted to have been awarded

Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing

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cutting-edge research, development and manufacture, covering Thisdiagnostic has ensured project and contractor across conditions suchviability as cancer, stroke huge and swathes of government activity heart disease.

We will also provide a and has boost only been significant to the achieved local economy where our members and their through creation.together We very clients new havejobworked much forward to workingand with in thelook spirit of openness TAL on this initial contract to deliver transparency. the high quality infrastructure we require.”

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

Find out more at hays.co.uk/ni

20/08/2014 16:45

DIGEST 12

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

13

SUSTAINABILITY AND THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION… 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.

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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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.

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

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.

1. Competitiveness of solutions:

2. The role of public policy:

For 70% of respondents the perceived cost is considered

44% of respondents believe that public institutions are the

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.

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…

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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

GRANT 15

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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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.

SUSTAINABILITY

16

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.

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. 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 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.

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

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

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

Determined Pursuit of Low Carbon Concrete Reducing the amount of cement in concrete mixes has been an ongoing process for over 20

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SUSTAINABILITY 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

17

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

Moore Concrete 80% GGBS: Embodied Carbon Rating Certificate A++ <145

A++129kg CO2e/m3

A+ 145-215 A 215-265 B 265-310 C 310-340 D 340-375 E 375-430 F 430-450 G >450

Mix 2080 Data: Concrete mix: Cube Strength: Cement Type: SCM Cement Content: w/c ratio SCM content Aggregate size: Admixtures: Slump class:

80% GGBS 60MPa IIIB GGBS 450kg/m3 0.4 80% 20mm Superplasticiser SF2

STRENGTH:

C50/60

All figures kg/CO2e/m3 Bounding figures are only applicable to specified strength class

Based on The Green Construction Board (2022), Low Carbon Concrete Routemap , ICE Knowledge

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.

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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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

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

18

Ireland’s Largest

Hard Metals

and ancillary supplier to the building industry

ALM HM/Met-Seam are ALM HM/Met-Seam arethe theleading leadingdistributor distributorofofHard Hard Metal Metaland andancillary ancillaryto tothe thebuilding buildingindustry. industry.

ALM HM/Met-Seam Ltd ofof various materials ALM HM/Met-Seam Ltdhold holdextensive extensivestocks stocks various materials from all leading European manufacturers including VMZINC, from all leading European manufacturers including VMZINC, Rheinzink Zinc, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Arubis Copper, Aperam Rheinzink Zinc, Zintek Zinc, KME Copper, Arubis Copper, Aperam Stainless Steel, Alcoa Aluminium, and Lindab Painted Steel.

We also Stainless Steel, elZinc, Latem Aluminium, Prefa Aluminium, and stock matching rainwater systems.

Lindab Painted Steel. We also stock matching rainwater systems.

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

ALM HM ALM HMoffer offerthe thecomplete completemetal metalroofing, roofing,cladding claddingand andinsulation insulationpackage. package.

www.almhm.ie. www.metseam.com

Dublin Dublin Office 00 3531 1420 4201700 1714 + 353 Craigavon Office 00 44 28 38325757 257 57 0044 28 38 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

ALM HM 19

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

SUSTAINABILITY

20

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.”

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 the future.

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

Tom Marriott & Garrett Quinn

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SUSTAINABILITY 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

Garrett Quinn

21

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 Nilan.green showroom is located near Dungannon, Co Tyrone.

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

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Low Sight Slim LowLine Sight Line Slim Double Glazed Units Double Glazed Units Low IMC Glass have invested in the design and manufacture of these

Do

specialist slim double glazed units that satisfy the requirements of IMC Glass have invested in the design and manufacture of these a low sight line to be fitted in traditional timber frames. specialist slim double glazed thattosatisfy requirements of It is nounits longer necessary expect peoplethe who live in old buildings not to IMC Glas optimise their insulation. This product provides the alternative to turning up a low sight line to be fittedthein traditional frames. heating and allows peopletimber to live more comfortably in older properties. specialis The Slim-glaze warm edge spacer technology consists of a poly metric tape

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

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Just how Slim are our Slim Glaze Units?

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CE mark Approved NO: 68603

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The consultation period The consultation runs until runs until 15 November 25 September 2023.

2023.

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

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.

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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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

Paul Millar and David Millar at Cemcor Plant

David Millar at Cemcor 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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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.

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DIGEST 28

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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DIGEST 29

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

Sharon McClements, outgoing RICS NI board chair, Martin Doherty, newly appointed board chair of RICS NI and Emma Causer, Market Director RICS UK &amp; Ireland at the new RICS offices in Custom House, Belfast Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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.

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.

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Pre-Development Enquiry

Impact Assessment

Planning Permission

NI Water will assess your plans for available water and sewerage capacity. If there are issues, you can submit an Impact Assessment Application.

An engineering report will suggest ways to solve these capacity issues (if possible).

We can then work with you to agree a solution.

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.

So it’s important you contact us early, no matter what size your project is.

Learn more at

niwater.com/services-for-developers

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HAYS 31

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.

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

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 Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

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 skills minimising 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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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.

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.

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.

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: Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

“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

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

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

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

34

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY COMMENTARY

By GERARD GRAHAM

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

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.

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

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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!’’

DIGEST 36

TEN PROJECTS SHORTLISTED FOR THE RSUA DESIGN AWARDS 2023 Ballyhackamore House

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.”

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

“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

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.”

Project name

Location

Architect(s)

“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.”

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

Grand Opera House Belfast

Belfast

Consarc Design Group

Windmill House

Hillsborough

Marshall McCann Architects

Ulster Hospital Acute Services Block

Dundonald

Avanti Architects in association with Kennedy FitzGerald Architects

Ballyhackamore House

Belfast

Studio idir

Hill House

Belfast

McGonigle McGrath

Braidside Integrated Primary School

Ballymena

Isherwood + Ellis with Knox Clayton Architects

St. James Farm Belfast

Belfast

MMAS

Magheracross Coastal Walkway Trailhead and Scenic Viewpoints

Bushmills

GM Design Associates LimIted

Fort House

Armagh

Patrick Bradley Architect Ltd

The Chapel

Belfast

Alskea Ltd Check us out on social media www.specifymagazine.info

DIGEST 37 Fort house

Braidside Integrated Primary School

Grand Opera House

Hill House

Magheracross Coastal Walkway

St James Farm, Belfast Ulster Hospital Acute Services The Chapel Windmill House

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CIOB

38

NEW CHAIR OF CIOB LAUNCHES NEW INCREMENTUM 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. 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

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CIOB 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

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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

39

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.

DIRECTORY AUTOMATIC DOORS

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residential. supplier Calor isandand aresidential. leading Retain provides a design supply & Airport Road West, Gyproc, of cleaner, efficient LPG AirportIreland Road West, • Fire Detection installation service for&aAlarm • Fire Detection &range Alarmof earth Unit 4, Kilcarbery Business Park, • Fire Suppression retention systems.

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Product News

44

BRETT MARTIN’S STUNNING NEW ROOF LANTERN PUTS SAFETY FIRST

LOW SIGHT-LINE SLIM DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS. Here at IMC Glass we have invested in the design and manufacturing of these specialist slim double-glazed units in order to satisfy the requirements of traditional timber frames. We are Ireland’s ONLY fully certified manufacturer of heritage think double glazing, our brand name for this product is Slim-Glaze, we are the ONLY company in Ireland and one of two companies in all of U.K https://www.imcglass.com/

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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Product News

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

45

SMARTROOF SOLUTION MEETS NEXT WAVE OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY TARGETS

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

To find out more download the Smartroof brochure or contact info@smartroof.co.uk

FRASER MILLER, LANCASTER

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

‘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.’

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.

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INTERVIEW

46

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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INTERVIEWS 47

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