CONSTRUCTION CLOSE UP
L-R: Derek Kennedy, Department for Communities, Joseph Kilroy, CIOB, Joan McCoy, White Ink Architects and Keith Patrick, GRAHAM.
L-R: Yvonne Conway, CIOB/Woodvale Construction, Joseph Kilroy, CIOB, Joan McCoy, White Ink Architects, Keith Patrick, GRAHAM, Derek Kennedy, Department for Communities, and Mark Spence, CEF.
Mark Spence, Chief Executive, CEF.
BUILDING SAFETY WAS THE FOCUS OF THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF ROADSHOW EVENTS EXPLORING KEY ISSUES SHAPING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT HOSTED BY AN INDUSTRY-LED PARTNERSHIP…
Construction Close Up
A new regional Construction Close Up roadshow series exploring key issues shaping the built environment has been launched by the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and supported by NHBC. The industry initiative hosted its inaugural event on May 28 at the Galgorm Resort & Spa, focusing on the critical issue of building safety. It brought together contractors, consultants, housing professionals and policymakers to examine the evolving policy landscape and what future reform could mean for the sector. The event comes as Northern Ireland is continuing to develop its approach to residential building safety reform, informed by changes introduced elsewhere across the UK. Against this backdrop, the session provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to hear directly from experts, explore emerging proposals and discuss the practical implications for industry. A headline presentation was delivered by Derek Kennedy, Director of Residential Building Safety at the Department for
Communities, who outlined emerging thinking on building safety reform. His presentation explored the principles informing policy development, lessons being drawn from reforms elsewhere and the importance of ensuring that any future framework is practical, proportionate and reflective of local context. “I welcome this valuable opportunity to engage directly with construction industry representatives through these roadshows,” said Derek. “Collaboration between government and the industry is vital as we work strengthen readiness for residential building safety reform.” The discussion also highlighted the vital role of collaboration across the entire building lifecycle, with speakers and attendees reflecting on responsibilities, competence, regulation and the need for meaningful engagement between government, industry and residents as policy develops. Mark Spence, Chief Executive, CEF, said, “It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout for the first Construction Close Up event. Beginning with building safety, this series comes at a critical time. “With new legislation in development, it
is essential that we continue to engage and work collaboratively to ensure any future framework is both practical and proportionate. This series provides an important platform to bring together professionals, policymakers and industry leaders to share insights and help shape solutions.” Yvonne Conway, CIOB NI Hub Chair, said, “As the professional body for construction, CIOB is committed to raising standards and supporting competence across the sector. This series provides a valuable opportunity to engage with industry at a regional level and share practical insight. It will play an important role in helping ensure the sector is prepared, informed and confident as change continues across the built environment.” The Construction Close Up roadshow series will continue across Northern Ireland, providing further opportunities to explore key issues shaping the sector.
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