NIBuilder 35-5 Oct-Nov

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Vol 35 No 5 - OCT/NOV 2024

25 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2024

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CONTENTS

ISSUE 35-5 OCT/NOV 2024

FUNDING DEFICIT LIMITS HOUSING & INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT

Another busy few months since our last edition have included publication of the Northern Ireland Executive’s draft Programme for Government and the Labour Party Conference 2024, both pledging investment in housing, infrastructure and net zero. While such commitments have been welcomed, lack of funding remains a key barrier to progress, with historic underfunding for NI Water an issue of particular concern, imposing major limitations on housing development here. CEF used its Construction Excellence Awards 2024 as a platform to call for the Executive to take “bold, decisive action” to address the barriers to growth, and you can read more inside alongside full coverage of the Awards. Congratulations to all the winners! Also inside, CIOB is calling for urgent policy intervention to decarbonise the built environment sector at the scale and pace required to achieve Northern Ireland’s net zero targets, with an ageing housing stock and reliance on oil heating creating an acute residential emissions problem for the region. The good news is many developers have already adopted a proactive approach to decarbonisation, including a new social housing development representing NI Housing Executive’s first new-build project in 25 years, featured inside. Energy-efficient solutions will also be a focus of BEPEX Belfast 2025, to be held at the Eikon Exhibition Centre over April 9-10. Alyson Magee

Products: Set to join multi-national operator Saint-Gobain, Kilwaughter Group has been shortlisted for five major UK construction awards for its Systems external wall insulation.

In Focus: NI government has been urged to take bold, decisive action to address barriers to growth at the 25th CEF Construction Excellence Awards in Belfast on October 3. 56 In Focus: Contractor OHMG has set new standards in educational, operational and sustainable performance with £31m new-build project Lismore College in Craigavon. 77 News & Views: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Fire Glass Direct has evolved into a leading designer, manufacturer and installer of bespoke glass solutions. 99 Products: Panasonic and tado° have partnered to introduce their first integrated solution aimed at boosting heat pump efficiency and energy savings for European homes. 104 News & Views: BEPEX has announced new venues for 2025 - the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Belfast over April 9-10 and National Sports Arena, Dublin over September 10-11.

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NEWS

KILWAUGHTER MINERALS ACQUIRED BY SAINT-GOBAIN PENDING REGULATORY APPROVAL

GRAHAM SECURES SPOT ON £3BN LONDON MAJOR WORKS HOUSING FRAMEWORK GRAHAM has been appointed to the London Construction Programme (LCP) Major Works Housing Framework under Sub-Lot 1.3 (New Build: £20m+). Marking the first time it has applied for a place on the residential framework, the successful tender highlights the contractor’s growing strength in delivering large-scale housing projects across London and the South East. Worth £3bn, the framework brings together both major construction firms and SMEs. Rob Joyce, Regional Development Director at GRAHAM, said, “We look forward to collaborating with our partners to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions on some of the region’s most significant housing developments.” Projects recently delivered by GRAHAM include a new 55,860sqft, two-storey extension to West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven, and a new £46m retirement village in West Yorkshire, Audley Scarcroft Park. Meanwhile, GRAHAM Innovation Director Emer Murnaghan has recently been appointed as chair of the Institution of Civil Engineers Northern Ireland, and the contractor is set to host a hydrogen conference at its Hillsborough office on November 7. www.graham.co.uk

Kilwaughter Minerals Limited is set to become part of the multi-national Saint-Gobain group after a binding agreement was reached to acquire the quarrying and mineral processor. The acquisition has been forwarded to the Competition and Markets Authority, with closing of the transaction expected in the first half of 2025.

Gary Wilmot, Chief Executive Officer at Kilwaughter Minerals.

the year to April 2024 and has more than 200 employees. Gary Wilmot, CEO, said, “Kilwaughter has a rich company culture and heritage, and our focus remains on delivering a leading customer experience, underpinned by our trusted brands. We look forward to the added synergy that Saint-Gobain will undoubtedly bring and sharing our passion for innovation, quality and excellence.” www.saint-gobain.com www.kilwaughter.com

Saint-Gobain is a global leader in the design and manufacture of solutions for the construction industry and employs 160,000 people across 76 countries globally. Headquartered at its limestone quarry in Larne with distribution centres in Glasgow, Cork and St Helens, Kilwaughter Minerals is known for leading brands K Rend, K Systems and Kilwaughter Lime. It generated revenue of around £50m in

CIOB AWARDS IRELAND 2025 SET TO RECOGNISE CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS

Talented construction professionals across Northern Ireland are being urged to step forward and enter awards organised by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).

The prestigious event will be held at Croke Park in Dublin on September 18, 2025, with awards entry open to both members and non-members of CIOB and covering categories such as Client of the Year, Team of the Year and Rising Star.

L-R: Julie Fitzsimmons and Jonathan Payne, CIOB NI, Micky Murray, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Tim Kinney, Tughans, Jenna Bell, CIOB Ireland, and Yvonne Conway, CIOB NI.

Rob Joyce, Regional Development

Director at GRAHAM.

CIOB hosted a launch event for the awards on October 11 at Tughans in The Ewart, Belfast, offering aspiring winners the chance to network with fellow construction professionals. A similar event was held at Engineers Ireland in Dublin at the same time. Caroline Gumble, CEO at CIOB, said, “The CIOB Ireland Awards is a great platform for the incredible things industry professionals are doing and I’m very much looking forward to hearing all those stories. “Nothing in construction happens in isolation so I encourage everyone working in the built environment sector to nominate the colleagues who most deserve recognition.” www.ciob.me/irelandawards

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PRODUCT NEWS

FOSROC IS PROMOTING EXTENDED ASSET LIFE AT THE ALL IRELAND WATER & WASTEWATER EXPO 2024 IN DUBLIN ON NOVEMBER 21… Bringing together expertise and cutting-edge materials

Construction challenges: By tapping into the knowledge and expertise, and with the use of cutting-edge materials technology for concrete repair and waterproofing solutions, water companies can tackle many of the construction challenges faced in facility upgrade projects. Extending asset life: Specification Manager for ROI & NI Ian Fogarty will be speaking at the conference to explain the rationale behind Fosroc’s theme for the event of extending the longevity of assets - concrete tanks, water storage and processing areas. His presentation, Extend Asset Life Through Effective Repair & Maintenance, links to sustainable construction and lifecycle analysis. 48-hour site support: The team on the Fosroc stand will be on hand to share their experience, advice and case study examples of industry-specific solutions put into practice across Ireland. Fosroc’s 48-hour Site Support Promise will also be

Fosroc Ireland is set to exhibit for a second year running at The All-Ireland Water & Wastewater Expo, to be held at Leopardstown Racecourse in Dublin on November 21. The event attracts professionals from the municipal, industrial and domestic water and wastewater industry, who gather to discuss and debate key issues facing the sector. Industry investment: As part of the National Development Plan, Ireland’s water infrastructure and treatment facilities are receiving €6bn of investment to bring them up to world-class standards. This supports individual projects such as building new or upgrading existing water and wastewater treatment plants or upgrading existing networks. Sustainability concerns are also leading to significant investments in water efficiency and wastewater treatment, and waste-to- energy programmes.

Application of Proofex 3000 on the roof of a reservoir at Kilkenny Water Treatment Plant.

showcased as a unique industry offering, ensuring clients, engineers, contractors and applicators receive hands-on, practical assistance exactly where and when it is needed. Register for free to attend the event, at www.waterengineering.ie Find out more about Fosroc solutions for the water industry at www.fosroc.com/sectors/water

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NEWS

Two longstanding branch managers, Alan McLean at MacBlair Ballymoney and Billy McAuley at MacBlair Bangor, have been honoured with surprise presentations at their respective branches in September. Both events, attended by Macnaughton Blair CEO Karol McGuckin, celebrated four decades of dedicated service. The teams at Ballymoney and Bangor expressed their sincere thanks to their colleagues and wished them many more successful years. Karol said, “Alan’s and Billy’s achievements are absolutely fantastic. They have experienced a lot over the years, both the good and the bad. They have built great teams and developed the business to the high level it is today. The senior management is very grateful for their contributions, and I know their teams are as well. On behalf of the company, congratulations Alan and Billy, and thank you very much.” www.macblair.com TWO MACBLAIR BRANCH MANAGERS CELEBRATE MILESTONE 40 YEARS OF SERVICE

L-R: Michael Johnston, Partner at Johnston Houston, Kenneth Wood, Partner & MD at Drees & Sommer UK, and Kerr Houston, Partner at Johnston Houston.

NI BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANCY ACQUIRED BY UK FIRM

Belfast-based building and construction consultancy Johnston Houston has been acquired by Drees & Sommer UK Ltd. A private partnership founded by Michael Johnston and Kerr Houston in 2007, Johnston Houston employs a 25-strong team of building surveyors, cost consultants and project managers, all of whom will join Drees & Sommer after the strategic merger. Drees & Sommer is a worldwide, partner-managed team of over 6,000 employees across 63 offices. With experts across local, national and international real estate, industrial, energy and infrastructure sectors,

Drees & Sommer is a European market leader in delivering strategic advice and consultancy to the built environment. Johnston Houston will continue to develop its portfolio as Johnston Houston – Part of Drees & Sommer, under the leadership of current partners Michael Johnston and Kerr Houston for 12 months, before officially rebranding to Drees & Sommer. Michael Johnston, Partner at Johnston Houston, said, “Our combined expertise and resources will allow us to deliver even greater value to our clients while maintaining the personal and proactive service they have come to expect.” www.dreso.uk

PLANNING APPROVAL GRANTED FOR TITANIC QUARTER STUDENT VILLAGE

Titanic Quarter Student Village has received planning approval from Belfast City Council’s Planning Committee. A joint development venture between UK developer Watkin Jones and Holywood-based Lacuna Developments, the proposals will regenerate a vacant industrial site to deliver high-quality, sustainable accommodation for 1,007 students. Designed by Belfast-based architects, Todd architects, the new student village

Artist’s impression of the proposed Titanic Quarter Student Village.

Alan McLean, centre, with Karol McGuckin, second right, and the MacBlair Ballymoney team.

development was supported during the planning and engagement processes by planning and development consultancy Turley. It will target a BREEAM Excellent rating, with rooftop solar panels, carbon-free heating using air-source heat pumps and heat recovery units, and rainwater recovery systems. Alongside modern studio bedrooms and cluster flats, proposals include a café, shared lounges, dining areas, games rooms, study spaces, launderettes and gyms. The Student Village is the second proposed investment in Titanic Quarter by the joint venture, which sold the Loft Lines, a BTR development, to Legal & General and Clanmil Housing last year. www.lacunadevelopments.com

L-R: Patrick Carroll, Billy McAuley and Karol McGuckin.

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CIOB NEWS

construction PROFESSIONAL

URGENT POLICY INTERVENTION IS NEEDED TO DECARBONISE THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT SECTOR AT THE SCALE AND PACE REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE NORTHERN IRELAND’S NET ZERO TARGETS, WRITES JOSEPH KILROY, POLICY AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS MANAGER IRELAND AT THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF BUILDING…

Reducing operational and embodied carbon emissions in Northern Ireland’s built environment

Operational emissions - heating, cooling and lighting buildings – in the residential sector account for 13.7% of national emissions in Northern Ireland. A combination of the poor condition of an ageing housing stock, with the sources of energy used for residential fuel, means that Northern Ireland has an acute residential operational emissions problem. According to the 2016 House Condition Survey, 99% of dwellings in Northern Ireland had central heating of which 68% was oil-fired, 24% was gas central heating, and 8% was solid fuel, electric and fuel systems. By comparison, only 4% of households in England and Wales rely on oil. Residential emissions in Northern Ireland are a confluence of several policy issues: an ageing housing stock; high levels of fuel poverty; poor health outcomes; lack of natural resources; and high dependence on imported fossil fuels. Positively, this convergence of socio- economic problems in the residential sector means policies that target residential emissions will have wider benefits beyond achieving climate targets. New building energy-efficiency standards for Northern Ireland were introduced in 2022, requiring the energy efficiency of new houses to be improved by 40%, new flats by 25%, and new buildings other than dwellings by 15%. These standards mean operational carbon

from new build properties are being reduced successfully. Nevertheless, the vast majority of Northern Ireland’s housing stock was built before their introduction. Domestic dwellings in Northern Ireland currently use more energy per unit than anywhere else in the UK or Ireland. To achieve national climate targets, a peak of 50,000 homes will need to be retrofitted annually in Northern Ireland, around three times the current level. At the macro level, CIOB has joined others in the construction sector to call for the Northern Ireland Assembly to draw up a national retrofit strategy. This strategy could consolidate all the different measures needed to retrofit the country’s existing housing stock into a coherent plan. At the micro level, the CIOB has proposed two measures that could form part of such a strategy. Firstly, to deal with operational emissions, we are proposing to defer stamp duty liability on properties that have been purchased with the sole purpose of improvement. Once the enhanced property has been resold, the stamp duty liability is paid. The crux of the proposal is to encourage investors to fix up older, less energy-efficient stock for resale, thereby creating a ‘green flipping’ business model, providing an additional incentive to retrofit, and increasing the overall number of residential retrofits.

A significant proportion of emissions from the built environment come from embodied carbon. Embodied carbon emissions are the carbon emitted in the building process - from mining, quarrying, transporting and manufacturing building materials, and the demolition of buildings - and require a firm policy response. Under the UK’s current tax structure, a reduced rate of 0% VAT is applied to demolition, while 20% VAT is applied to repair and maintenance. This creates a perverse environment where carbon-hungry demolition is given taxation priority over more sustainable repair and restoration options. This contradicts the principles outlined in the Climate Change Act (NI) 2022 and the 2022 Circular Economy Strategy for Northern Ireland. As a remedy, CIOB is proposing the Northern Ireland Government use its devolved powers to implement a demolition levy – one that bypasses the current devolution settlement around tax – to level the unequal playing field that threatens the sustainability of our built environment. Neither measure is a total solution and would need to exist within a suite of complementary measures if operational and embodied emissions are to be effectively reduced. Nevertheless, making our current policy and legislation consistent with our emissions targets may be among the least painful places to start.

Joseph Kilroy, CIOB Policy and Public Affairs Manager for Ireland and Northern Ireland M: +353 (0)87 119 4475 - E: jkilroy@ciob.org www.ciob.org

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NEWS

Taranto Limited has been fined £90,000 at Newry Crown Court after pleading guilty to a single health and safety offence, following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI). The investigation followed the death of Matthew Biggerstaff, 21, a production operative on August 3, 2021. He suffered fatal crush injuries while removing concrete from the interior walls of a truck-mounted mixing drum. Taranto had failed to conduct a suitable task-specific risk assessment or implement a safe system of work to mitigate the risk. In a separate investigation, Belfast- based Balloo Hire Centre Ltd was fined £80,000 at Laganside Crown Court after pleading guilty to two health and safety offences. On October 4, 2022, during the loading of a large mobile elevated working platform onto a lorry trailer, it toppled, ejecting the operator, who suffered life- changing injuries. HSENI found the company had failed to adequately identify the risks, provide a banksman to assist the operator or ensure adequate measures were in place to effectively segregate live traffic and pedestrians from the loading operation. www.hseni.gov.uk TWO FIRMS FINED AFTER DEATH AND LIFE- CHANGING INJURIES OF WORKERS

Category winners at the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024.

MELANIE DAWSON NAMED LOCAL HERO AMONG TOP 100 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

Melanie Dawson, creator of Belfast-based digital construction consultancy business Origin7 Ltd, has been named a Local Hero at the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024. Melanie is a Fellow of the Institute of Civil Engineers and a non-executive board member of BuildData Group. She began her career in construction in 2004, and worked for leading firms operating across NI, the UK and Ireland before specialising in Building Information Modelling. The awards, which celebrate and honour outstanding individuals within the sector, took place on September 30 at

Birmingham’s Burlington Hotel. Organised by CITB and hosted by NFB, the event showcases influential women working in construction, making female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible to inspire others. Danny Clarke, Engagement Director at CITB, said, “The award ceremony and Top 100 shortlist celebrate the women that work at every level within the sector and their phenomenal achievements, while inspiring others and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field.” www.citb.co.uk

NI CONSTRUCTION PLATFORM WINS MENTAL HEALTH INNOVATION AWARD

Building Mental Health Alliance (BMHA), an initiative created by the construction industry in Northern Ireland, has won a prestigious Safety Groups UK (SGUK) Award for Innovation 2024. The accolade celebrates BMHA’s pioneering Mental Health in Construction Signposting Service, a vital resource launched in 2022

L-R: Ian Coombes, SGUK, Ernie Spence, BMHA, Andrew Cooke, GRAHAM, Rachel Dorovatas, CITBNI, and Norman Stevenson and Stephen Laws, SGUK.

to address the mental health challenges faced by workers in the construction sector. BMHA was formed by 26 organisations committed to tackling mental health concerns in the trade, addressing a critical need for awareness, accessible support and employee training. Partners include GRAHAM, Farrans, Henry Brothers, CITB NI, CEF, McLaughlin and Harvey, Northern Ireland Safety Group, and collectively represent over 12,000 construction employees and a combined turnover of £2.3bn. The Mental Health in Construction Signposting Service, easily accessible via a QR code, offers users a straightforward route to a wide range of mental health resources, including helpline numbers and online support. Statistics have shown high engagement with the service, highlighting its effectiveness. www.citbni.org.uk/Building-Mental-Health-Alliance.aspx

Matthew Biggerstaff.

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COMPANY NEWS

THE INCA AWARDS CELEBRATE RAPID INNOVATION, TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE AND BEST PRACTICE WITHIN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR AND WILL BE HELD IN BIRMINGHAM ON NOVEMBER 7… K Systems shortlisted for five major UK construction awards

Kilwaughter Group brand K Systems, a leading manufacturer and system designer of external wall insulation (EWI), has been shortlisted for five prestigious UK industry awards. Recognised as the most sought-after accolades in the UK EWI industry, the INCA Awards celebrate rapid innovation, technical excellence and best practice within the construction sector. At this year’s awards, K Systems will contest the New Build: Non-Residential; New Build: Residential – Low Rise; Refurbishment: Low Rise – Render/ Traditional Finish; Refurbishment: Mid Rise; and Judges’ Choice: Environmental Impact – Low Rise categories. Caroline Rowley, Business Development Director at Kilwaughter Minerals, said, “Being shortlisted for multiple INCA Awards is testament to K Systems’ ongoing dedication to providing innovative and sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of the market. “Our strong reputation as a leading EWI manufacturer and system designer is built on our team’s hard work and commitment to excellence, and it is wonderful to receive industry recognition for the work we do. “To have been named as a finalist in the Judges’ Choice: Environmental Impact

K Systems is a trusted supplier of EWI systems into the UK market for many years and boasts a proven track record of reliability and durability.

into the UK market for many years and boasts a proven track record of reliability and durability. With a range of A1 fire-rated systems available in clay brick, dash and render finishes, itssystems are tested and certified to deliver exceptional levels of choice, fire safety and durability. The technical team across the UK and Ireland offers a range of support and guidance, ranging from thermal calculations and condensation risk analysis to wind-loading calculations (for high-rise projects). It offers contractors a detailed site evaluation and survey reports, cost estimates, project specific elevational colour schemes, CAD drawings and product samples. As well as product aftercare advice, K Systems also offers a registered installer network, on-site technical and installation support, project-specific warranties, supplementary maintenance schedules and programmes. For more information on K Systems, visit https://k.systems/

– Low Rise category is especially rewarding, and we hope to replicate the success of recent years. “I would like to congratulate our fellow finalists, and we are very much looking forward to what is sure to be an enjoyable occasion at the awards ceremony in November.” The Insulated Render and Cladding

Association (INCA) is a leading trade association representing companies involved in the design, manufacture, supply, and installation of EWI systems in the UK. Its annual awards event celebrates the achievements of individuals and companies across the industry. The INCA Awards ceremony will take place at the MacDonald Burlington Hotel in Birmingham on November 7. K Systems is a trusted supplier of EWI systems

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NEWS

Mid and East Antrim Borough councillors, Northern Ireland assembly members and the MP for North Antrim were among a contingent recently visiting Alpha Housing’s latest project in Cullybackey. The £4.4m scheme at the site of a derelict building on Main Street is due to be completed by spring 2026. Once work has been finalised by Mainline Contracts and DB Building Contracts Ltd, the project will comprise 24 new units. Designed by Michael Whitley Architects, the contemporary building will consist of one- and two-bedroom apartments for independent older people and general use. Four of the apartments have been specifically designed for wheelchair users and the block will also benefit from off-street parking. The project is part of NI Housing Executive’s Social Housing Development Programme, with £3.1m of capital grant funding coming from the Department for Communities and £1.5m supplemented by Alpha Housing. Alpha Housing delivered a £2.1m development of apartments for older people in the village of Broughshane two years ago. www.alphahousingni.org POLITICIANS VISIT ALPHA HOUSING’S £4.4M CULLYBACKEY DEVELOPMENT

The team from St Comgall’s-Ionad Eileen Howell, Belfast wins Refurbishment/Revitalisation Project of the Year.

BELFAST SITE SECURES TOP REGENERATION PROJECT AT LONDON AWARDS

St Comgall’s–Ionad Eileen Howell has claimed the Refurbishment/Revitalisation Project of the Year category at the RICS Awards held in the Park Plaza Riverbank, London on October 4. The project, which kept many of the school building’s original features, saw the once-derelict building on the Falls Road transformed into a multi-purpose community hub with offices, a café and versatile spaces for events. A Grade B1-listed building owned by Falls Community Council, it features neo-Georgian brickwork and traditional slated roofs.

Judges said, ‘Previously a severely derelict building, St Comgall’s has been imaginatively refurbished, respecting its heritage as a school and the district that used to surround it – delighting former pupils with its quirky details. ‘Flexible-sized rooms are arranged around a bright central function room, and now the centre is a thriving melting pot of activities serving its diverse local communities, with arts, cultural, social and economic activities on offer and workspace for small businesses.’ www.rics.org

QUALIFICATION WILL HELP SKILL UP HERITAGE CRAFTS

A subsidised assessment programme helping 15 candidates achieve an NVQ Level 3 in heritage skills occupations has been launched by the Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI). Part of an ongoing heritage project supported by the Covid Recovery

Employment and Skills Initiative for Heritage, it is funded by the Department for Communities and administered by the Heritage Fund with further support from the Department for Economy. The qualification will allow those who have gained skills and experience through their work to achieve a formal qualification that recognises their expertise. Participants need to be over 18, based in Northern Ireland and working in a relevant role that allows them to showcase and build up experience in an area of heritage expertise including: Wood Occupations, Fibrous Plastering, Solid Plastering, Heritage Metalwork, Stone Masonry or Thatching. Candidates will be assessed through the Department for Communities Heritage Skills Centre at Moira. Induction for assessment will take place in Jan 2025, with candidates completing the programme within one year. www.citbni.org.uk/Heritage-Project/NVQ-Assessment.aspx

L-R: Cameron Watt, Alpha Housing CEO, and Sean Dobbin, DB Building Contracts Limited Construction Director.

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60 YEARS OF CITB NI

L-R: Helen Vint, Head of Learning & Development, GRAHAM; Paul Brogan, Managing Director, John McQuillan Contracts; Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive, CITB NI; Noel Brady, Chair of CITB NI; Rachel Dorovatas, Director, CITB NI; and Vincent Hinds, CITB NI facilities, who has had 40 years’ service with CITB.

THE ORGANISATION IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF IDENTIFYING SKILLS AND TRAINING NEEDS FOR NORTHERN IRELAND’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND SHAPING THE SECTOR’S GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT… CITB NI celebrates 60 years of providing industry skills and training

The Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Since 1964, the organisation has been at the forefront of identifying the skills and training needs for Northern Ireland’s construction industry and shaping the sector’s growth and development, something which the organisation looks set to continue in the years ahead. Currently, CITB NI supports 3,600 registered construction employers by promoting and delivering training services identified by the industry. Last year alone, the organisation provided £2m in training grants to a range of NI construction companies. Alongside this, CITB NI continues to showcase

construction as a rewarding career option for young people and over the last eight years has supported 1,200 apprentices with apprenticeship grants. Recent figures from the Construction Skills Network Labour Market Intelligence Report (2024-2028) for Northern Ireland forecast a 2.8% annual growth in construction, with an additional 5,200 workers needed by 2028 to meet industry demand. CITB NI aims to meet this need by supporting key training initiatives and encouraging the continued development of a skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the industry. All these initiatives are designed specifically to upskill the workforce, promote

diversity, and inspire the next generation of professionals to build rewarding careers in construction. The 60th anniversary year is also an opportunity to highlight recent successes. These include its Mobile Training Unit facility, which has trained over 2,000 individuals in health and safety courses throughout 2024. The Adopt a School initiative has established local partnerships between education and industry, and is currently working with 50 employers and 86 schools. The recent development of a simulated construction training facility at CITB NI’s Nutts Corner site, where it has operated since 1964, offers a practical real-life training environment which will prepare

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60 YEARS OF CITB NI

L-R: Damien O’Callaghan, Group MD Heron Bros, and Barry Nielson OBE, Chief Executive, CITB NI.

L-R: Rachel Dorovatas, Director, CITB NI; Paul Brogan, Managing Director, John McQuillan Contracts; and Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive, CITB NI.

individuals for the demands of the construction industry. Additionally, the Women in Construction Summit, identified by the CITB NI-led women in construction network as a need to encourage more women into the industry, held its third summit in 2024. Welcoming over 160 delegates, the summit explored and debated a range of key industry topics including digital technologies and the impact of AI. Building on its partnership approach, CITB NI is working with the Department for Communities Historic Environment Division to deliver a new Heritage Project which will not only preserve, develop and deliver heritage skills supply and training in Northern Ireland but will seek to unlock the potential of developing future jobs and employment in the construction sector. This partnership will also help raise awareness of our built heritage, the heritage skills required and promote the preservation and development of traditional crafts and skills. A collaborative industry-driven approach is at the heart of CITB NI’s strategy for developing training and skills solutions. This entails not only exploring and supporting growth opportunities but facing ongoing emerging challenges including an ageing workforce, declining numbers of new talent entering the industry, technological advances in IT, the drive for energy efficiency and a net- zero carbon society. Over the years, CITB NI has worked with industry leaders such as GRAHAM, Heron Bros and John McQuillan Contracts – to name but a few. This approach has helped to develop a collective future-focused learning strategy which concentrates on tackling these

challenges, with the interests of both small and large organisations at its core. Celebrating CITB NI’s 60th anniversary, Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive CITB NI said, “On behalf of the team at CITB NI, we thank everyone who has been on this journey with us over the years. We are delighted to mark our 60th anniversary year – it is quite an achievement. “We are proud to continue to support the development of our most valuable resource - our people. As we reflect back on our

L-R: Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive, CITB NI; Rachel Dorovatas, Director, CITB NI; and Vincent Hinds CITB NI facilities.

L-R: Rachel Dorovatas, Director, CITB NI; Helen Vint, Head of Learning & Development GRAHAM; and Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive, CITB NI.

key successes, we also are all too aware of the future demands on our industry, and training and development has never been as important. “Key areas for future development in 2024 and beyond include digital construction and new technologies, sustainability and zero carbon, Governmental direction and a review of training interventions to support the industry in the most efficient and effective way possible. “Upskilling our existing workforce while

developing new entrants equipped with the skills for both the known and unknown challenges ahead will be key and will play a central role in our future approach.”

For further information on CITB NI and its services, visit https://www.citbni.org.uk or follow CITB NI on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn #CITBNI60

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PROJECT PROFILE

ST JOHN’S CHURCH, CRUMLIN

ALONGSIDE CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADDITION EXTENDING INTO THE CHURCH GARDENS, O’HANLON BROS CONSTRUCTION COMPLETED RESTORATION WORKS INCLUDING REPLACEMENT OF THE ROOF COVERING… RESTORING AND REVITALISING A PICTURESQUE EDWARDIAN CHURCH

A complex project encompassing sympathetic restoration works, and the addition of a modern extension, to St John’s Church in Crumlin has been successfully delivered by O’Hanlon Bros Construction Ltd. Part of Glenavy Parish, the Edwardian church was constructed in a Gothic Revival style and occupies a prominent corner site within the village of Crumlin. Project challenges ranged from the tight construction site on a busy thoroughfare to preserving the church’s unique features while seamlessly incorporating an extension featuring modern amenities into the building. Comprising a nave and chancel with

a gabled porch and bellcote, the picturesque church features Gothic arched windows and a distinctive lychgate of oak construction. Built in 1903 to the designs of architect George H Sands by contractor TA Irvine of Glenavy, its carved stonework and woodwork were installed by Purdy & Millard and leaded windows and stained glass by Ward & Partners. Church walls were re-rendered and the roof re-tiled during the 1980s. Tony O’Neill, Company Secretary, said, “We were approached by Des Cairns in late 2023 to inquire if we would be interested in tendering for the extension and renovation works at St John’s Church

in Crumlin. We accepted the invitation as we have worked with Des on a number of previous projects and were only too keen to renew our relationship.” Following its successful tender, O’Hanlon Bros was appointed as main contractor for the project in December 2023, with works commencing on site the following month and completing in August 2024. With St John’s located on the busy thoroughfare of Main Street in Crumlin, careful consideration had to be extended to the safety of local residents, staff and visitors throughout the works. The project involved the construction of a new addition, which extends into a grassed area at the rear of the existing

“Careful consideration had to be extended to the safety of local residents, staff and visitors throughout the works.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

ST JOHN’S CHURCH, CRUMLIN

building and includes modern kitchen and bathroom amenities. Works included a reduced-level dig, concrete strip foundations, construction of external and internal masonry walls with an aluminium roof covering, and a new floor slab. New aluminium windows and doors, internal timber doors and screens, floor and ceiling finishes and fitted furniture were also installed, alongside all associated mechanical and electrical services. Various restoration works were undertaken within and without the existing building, including replacement of the roof covering and restoration of the lychgate. Established in the late 1960s in Coalisland, O’Hanlon Bros was initially involved solely in the construction of private dwellings.

church, housing association and commercial sectors. “The company is a family-run business which has a very much hands-on approach from the management,” said Tony. “We take great pride in our work and treat each individual project as if it were our own private contract. “All contracts are completed to the highest standards of workmanship which has led to the creation of a reputation that continually provides further opportunities.” Client: Glenavy Parish Main contractor: O’Hanlon Bros Construction Ltd Architecture: Des Cairns Architecture Mechanical contractor: DMR Mechanical PROJECT TEAM...

Gaining a reputation for quality workmanship and efficiency, the

business soon expanded its reach with construction and refurbishment contracts spanning the educational, healthcare,

Electrical contractor: Haughey Electrical Ltd

3 Annaghmore Road, Coalisland, Co Tyrone BT71 4QZ T: +44 (0)28 8774 9898 E: info@ohanlon-bros.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

ST JOHN’S CHURCH, CRUMLIN

ARCHITECTURE & CONSERVATION Modernising St John’s Church to add much-needed amenities, without comprising its historic legacy, was the challenge facing chartered architectural technologist and CIAT-accredited conservationist Des Cairns. An Edwardian church in a Gothic Revival style with a distinctive lychgate occupying a prominent corner site, St John’s is a centrepiece for the village of Crumlin. Des Cairns Architecture has steered a successful restoration and extension project, which preserves the building’s historic integrity while adding a discrete extension to its rear, featuring a level-access vestibule, small kitchen and bathroom facilities. Minimal intervention to the existing fabric of the building was the goal, while a more modern look was purposely adopted for the new extension. Notable features of the restoration included new Dreadnought clay tiles and flashings on the church’s distinctive roof. Blown cellulose insulation proved an ideal solution for improving the sustainability of the building, while allowing its original ceiling to be retained. “The parish has invested in the future,” said Des. “It has certainly improved the entrance into Crumlin.”

ELECTRICAL A full package of electrical works was installed at St John’s Church by Haughey Electrical, in a productive first partnership with main contractor O’Hanlon Bros Construction. Included were internal and external lighting, power, mechanical heating controls, broadband, an audio-visual system including projector screens, and fire and intruder alarms. Jimmy Haughey, Director of Haughey Electrical, said, “It was a low-impact, smooth installation with a few small changes here and there. We had to be very sensitive about the existing building and leave it as near to the original as possible. “St John’s was successfully modernised with no visual impact; you would think it was still the same building.” To preserve original lights previously donated by a parishioner, Haughey Electrical was able to install LED lighting within the original fittings. Modern elements installed in the new extension, meanwhile, range from underfloor heating to a Quooker instant hot water tap. Haughey Electrical is well versed in delivering electrical services to churches of all sizes, as well the commercial, education, hospitality and leisure, and healthcare sectors.

T: +44 (0)28 9442 2660 - E: design@descairns.com www.descairns.com

T: +44 (0)28 2177 1295 - E: info@haugheyelectrical.co.uk www.haugheyelectrical.co.uk

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EQUIPMENT HIRE

TRUST SPEEDY HIRE TO KEEP YOUR PROJECTS MOVING AT FULL SPEED WITH AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF TOP-TIER TOOLS, EQUIPMENT AND PLANT MACHINERY FROM WHICH TO CHOOSE… Get your projects done with Speedy Hire: Northern Ireland’s premier equipment provider

When it comes to getting the job done right, time and quality are of the essence. That’s why Speedy Hire is the go-to choice for professionals, the trade and DIY enthusiasts alike in Northern Ireland. With an extensive range of top-tier tools, equipment and plant machinery, the company can cater to all your needs, whether in construction, infrastructure, landscaping or maintenance. Speedy Hire stands out not only for its vast stock holding but also its commitment to safety and efficiency. Equipment is meticulously maintained and regularly updated to ensure you have access to the latest and most reliable tools. Need something urgently? The rapid delivery service ensures you get what you need, when you need it. And the expert

team is always on hand to offer advice and support, helping you choose the right equipment for the job. Choose Speedy Hire for your next project in NI and experience the difference which quality service and top-notch equipment can make. Trust Speedy Hire to keep your

projects moving at full speed. Visit the Belfast depot today or contact the team to order now: Unit 2, Duncrue Pass, Duncrue Road, Belfast BT3 9BS T: +44 (0)28 9074 6600 E: belfast@speedyhire.com

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NEWS

Fraser Millar has called for higher energy-efficiency standards in Northern Ireland’s building regulations as part of the drive to meet net zero targets. The progressive housebuilder hosted members of the All-Party Group on Climate Action and Sustainable NI at its 219-unit Lancaster Park development in Four Winds, Belfast, where cutting-edge Passivhaus construction techniques have significantly reduced energy use. John Carrigan, Director with Fraser Millar, said, “Passivhaus principles are setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency in the housing market, which supports homeowners and far exceeds Northern Ireland’s current building regulations. “Passivhaus homes use 70 to 90% less energy than conventional homes with more than 90% of the heat generated within the home staying in the home, potentially saving residents hundreds of pounds on heating bills every year. “Not only that, but they are designed to promote higher air quality due to continuous ventilation and a heat recovery system that reduces pollutants and dust which can be beneficial to those with allergies.” www.frasermillar.co.uk FRASER MILLAR CALLS FOR HIGHER ENERGY- EFFICIENCY STANDARDS IN NEW HOMES

Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich.

DOWDS GROUP DELIVERS £30M TRANSFORMATION AT QUEEN ELIZABETH HOSPITAL

Dowds Group, in partnership with McLaren and DSSR, has successfully completed a transformative £30m infrastructure upgrade at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich. The milestone project sets a new benchmark in healthcare construction, enhancing patient care, improving staff wellbeing and modernising critical hospital facilities to meet the highest standards of compliance, sustainability and efficiency. This latest project follows delivery of the Alliance Healthcare Medical Diagnostic Imaging Centre in Belfast, a new healthcare facility offering a variety of scans.

The Woolwich project included modernisation of critical areas such as operating theatres, pathology, delivery suites, a special care baby unit and wards. The multidisciplinary contractor was recently named one of Ireland’s Best Managed Companies by Deloitte, earning its gold accolade at an awards ceremony in Dublin. The Ballymena-based Group has over 210 employees and operates another office at King’s Cross in London, where it partnered with non-profit Cook for Good in September to prepare 100 meals for people in need in the community. www.dowdsgroup.com

APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME AIMS TO SUPPORT HOUSING PROFESSIONALS

Choice Housing is highlighting the benefits of an apprenticeship programme launched as a partnership between leading housing organisations, the Chartered Institute of Housing and NRC. The Northern Ireland Level Three Apprenticeship in Housing Practice is an innovative educational programme designed to empower the next generation of housing professionals. Initiated through the Housing Sectoral Partnership, the programme was developed in response to an identified skills gaps in the housing sector. Edel McLaughlin, Learning and Development Officer

L-R: (back row) Julie Steele, Chartered Institute of Housing Northern Ireland, and Edel McLaughlin, Choice Housing, with (front row) student participants Jake Agnew and Clodagh Magee.

at Choice Housing, said, “We are excited to be part of this vital initiative that not only addresses the current challenges in the housing sector but also promotes housing as a first-choice career. “With a diverse curriculum tailored to the needs of various housing organisations, this programme will support apprentices in providing front-line services that meet the needs of our communities.” www.choice-housing.org

L-R: David Millar, Fraser Millar Director, and Kurtis Dickson, Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council.

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