NI BUILDER
Editor’s COMMENT PLEDGING PROGRESS ON NET ZERO & HOUSING A new Labour Government has swept into power in a landslide General Election since our last edition, laying out a raft of zero carbon, clean energy and housing pledges. How these pledges materialise, and filter through Northern Ireland’s devolved government, remains to be seen. Inside this edition, CEF identifies urgent priorities to tackle NI’s infrastructure capital funding deficit, CIOB looks at the potential impact of the new UK Government on the region’s construction sector, and NI Chamber repeats its call for timely planning reform to facilitate progress on zero carbon and the housing deficit. With A Level and GCSE results just announced, we also hear how CITB NI is encouraging students to consider building a career in construction. And further pointers on how to attract more talent into the industry is offered by two Gilbert-Ash employees. HR Director Maria Bradley has been working with Gilbert-Ash since 1987, while Site Engineer Conleth Smyth - one of the youngest-ever members of CIOB – only joined the firm in 2022. We hope you’re all geared up for BEPEX Dublin at RDS Simmonscourt over September 11-12. Register now to enjoy free entry and parking, complimentary refreshments, an exclusive goody bag and show-only offers from an impressive array of exhibitors. Alyson Magee
CONTENTS
ISSUE 35-4 AUG/SEPT 2024
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News & Views: CIOB Policy and Public Affairs Manager for Ireland and NI Joseph Kilroy explores what the UK General Election result means for construction in Northern Ireland. 36 News & Views: Dowds Group has invested £3m in new headquarters at Parkway Ballymena to bring its divisions together and boost its multi- million-pound order book. 44 In Focus: Killowen Contracts has transformed a former bar into a vibrant and engaging new social space for Queen’s University Belfast students and the wider community. 54 In Focus: CB Contracts is celebrating its 40th anniversary, having evolved from a small painting and decorating business into a major contractor in the commercial sector. 69 Products: Purdy has launched a new Painter’s Storage Box offered convenience to professional decorators with a selection of inserts and adaptable storage options. 80 News & Views: Gilbert-Ash HR Director Maria Bradley talks to NI Builder about solutions to the skills gap and how to attract more women into the construction industry.
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THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Editor Alyson Magee Editorial Laura Barr Publication Manager Karen Jess Production Manager Julie Anne Guiney Digital Creative Manager Jo Hendron Digital Communications Natasha Nelson
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