NIBuilder 35-6 Dec-Jan

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Vol 35 No 6 - DEC/JAN 2025

A UNIQUE FIRE & RESCUE TRAINING CAMPUS FELIX O’HARE DELIVERS

MAIN CONTRACTOR

www.felixohare.com

IN THIS ISSUE

Editor’s COMMENT A TESTAMENT TO WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED Welcome to our December/January edition, equipping you with all you need to know to get ahead in the Northern Ireland construction industry in 2025. Inside you’ll find the latest news on key people, products, projects, businesses and brands operating in the sector, updates from representative organisations CEF, FMB, CITB and CIOB, and full coverage of winners at The Concrete Society NI Region Awards and Octabuild Builders’ Merchant Excellence Awards. We also look at industry prospects for the year and the new Housing Supply Strategy for NI, while project profiles include three schools, Mill Strand IPS in Portrush, Phoenix IPS in Cookstown and Gaelscoil Ui Dhochartaigh in Strabane. Another standout build, our striking cover star NI Fire & Rescue Service Learning & Development College in Cookstown, really is a one-of-a- kind project featuring many unique elements and serving as a showcase for innovation. With public sector spending limitations widely cited as the main barrier to growth in the NI construction industry, this project stands as testament to what can be achieved with the right funding in place. On behalf of the team, we would like to thank our readers and advertisers for your support in 2024, and wish you all health, happiness and good trade in 2025. Alyson Magee

CONTENTS

ISSUE 35-6 DEC/JAN 2025

16 In Focus: Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd has transformed a challenging brownfield site in Portrush into a new energy-efficient primary school and nursery. 30 Products: KDM Hire has supplied three Combi-CBE forklifts from its Go Green category to enhance efficiency and sustainability in Keystone Lintels’ warehouse operations. 33 News & Views: Outstanding people, projects and innovative processes were recognised at The Concrete Society NI Region Awards, held in the Europa Hotel Belfast on October 24. 44 In Focus: Felix O’Hare has delivered a new £50m training college for NI Fire & Rescue Service in Cookstown featuring many unique elements to recreate realistic scenarios… 67 Products: Grant is demonstrating its commitment to developing innovative heating solutions with the launch of the new aesthetically-pleasing Aerona R290 heat pump. 80 News & Views: Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has launched a Housing Supply Strategy to deliver at least 100,000 homes, of which a third will be social housing.

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NEWS

HAGAN HOMES APPOINTS JIM BURKE AS MD TO LEAD EXPANSION

DIGITAL CREATIVE RECOGNISED WITH YOUNG

Hagan Homes has appointed Jim Burke as managing director of Hagan Homes, as the housebuilder eyes an ambitious new growth era. With the business for over 35 years, having joined aged 16 via a Youth Training Programme scheme, he brings a wealth of experience and intimate knowledge of the homebuilding industry to the role. Hagan Homes’ third employee, Jim and the company’s first employee Henry Campbell have been with the company ever since, with Jim starting in a junior support role and steadily progressing through the ranks.

SUPPLIER ACHIEVER AWARD

A digital creative based in Larne has been presented with the Young Supplier Achiever Award by national trade body the BMF (Builders Merchants Federation). Kathryn Douglas, Senior Digital Marketing Executive at Kilwaughter Minerals, has been recognised for her achievements in transforming the digital offer across brands including K Rend and K Systems. Starting out as a website executive at the firm in 2020, Kathryn’s achievements over the last four years have included the launch of three new websites, impactful video content and customer support. One of five finalists for the BMF Young Supplier Achiever Award, Kathryn was announced as the winner at the Federation’s annual Conference and Awards hosted by Countdown’s Colin Murray and held at the Leonardo Hinckley Island Hotel in Leicestershire. Kilwaughter recently joined the Saint- Gobain group, following conclusion of the regulatory process after it reached a binding agreement to acquire the Larne company. www.kilwaughter.com

Jim Burke, MD of Hagan Homes.

The company has invested over £20m in land acquisition in NI over the past six months alone, and is planning to develop 160 high-quality, affordable homes primarily targeting first-time buyers by 2025. It has recently expanded its team

In his most recent role as director of sales and acquisitions, he played a crucial role in the company’s strategic direction, specialising in land acquisitions, site valuations and pricing.

from 11 to 15 members. www.haganhomes.co.uk

£350K PRODUCTIVITY INITIATIVE FOR SMES LAUNCHED BY ECONOMY MINISTER

Economy Minister Conor Murphy has introduced an SME Productivity Booster, a new £350,000 initiative aimed at increasing productivity and skills in small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs). Launched on November 28 at Southern Regional College’s Newry Campus, the SME Productivity Booster aims to equip more than 70

L-R: Economy Minister Conor Murphy, James O’Neill, Rathbanna Ltd and Lee Campbell, Southern Regional College.

this gap by providing targeted upskilling to SMEs operating in key economic areas such as fintech, healthcare and advanced manufacturing.” The programme is delivered in partnership with the six NI further education colleges with Rathbanna Ltd, a manufacturer of architectural metalwork for the construction industry, availing of support from SRC during the pilot phase. www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/sme- productivity-booster

businesses across the north with the skills and insights they need to boost their productivity, competitiveness and prospects for growth. “According to recent research, output per worker in the north of Ireland is 11% lower than in Britain and almost 40% lower than in the south of Ireland,” said the Minister. “The SME Productivity Booster, which represents an investment of £350,000 by my Department as part of the wider Skills Fund, seeks to address

L-R: Adam Lee, Epicor (sponsor), Kathryn Douglas, and Colin Murray, host.

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NEWS

STRATEGIC APPROACH NEEDED TO TACKLE DETERIORATING SCHOOL STOCK

BUDGET GREETED WITH MIXED

A new, more strategic approach is required to address Northern Ireland’s deteriorating schools’ estate and make better use of limited funding available, according to a new report from the Comptroller and Auditor General. Published on November 12, Dorinnia Carville’s Managing the Schools’ Estate report considers the Department for Education’s existing approach to capital investment and maintenance funding in the context of best practice. Acknowledging historic and ongoing challenges including a complex school system, budgetary pressures and rising costs, it finds significant improvements are required to ensure funding is used more effectively in the future. Totalling over 1,100 schools, the schools’ estate in Northern Ireland has a total estimated capital value of £4.6bn. In 2023- 24, the Department recorded a total capital expenditure of £276.4m across the estate,

A mixed response from the construction industry has greeted the Labour Government’s Autumn Budget, unveiled by Chancellor Rachel Reeves on October 30. Welcoming a £270m increase to £2.2bn in the Northern Ireland Executive’s capital budget in 2025/26, CEF Chief Executive Mark Spence said the uplift was, however, insufficient to reverse decades of underfunding of the region’s water and wastewater system. CEF has repeated calls for a review of how NI Water is funded, given its crucial role in wider economic activity such as homebuilding and protecting the environment. Eddie Tuttle, Director of Policy, Research and Public Affairs at CIOB, said, “Higher taxes, like increased employer National Insurance contributions, are likely to increase financial strains on the SMEs that are so vital to the industry and its supply chain.” Only 20% of construction professionals in the UK think the Budget will ultimately be good for the industry, according to Gleeds’ latest Market Report. The firm’s 4Q 2024 survey found that 80% believe the Budget will either have negative repercussions or make no difference to the sector overall. www.gov.uk/government/ publications/autumn-budget-2024 RESPONSE FROM CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

Dorinnia Carville, Comptroller & Auditor General.

and a spend of £28.4m on maintenance. Welcoming the report, Education Minister Paul Givan said, “This will require a significant step change in the level of capital investment by the Northern Ireland Executive.” www.niauditoffice.gov.uk/publications/ managing-schools-estate

CIOB fellows and graduates are recognised at Belfast City Hall.

CIOB HONOURS OVER 50 GRADUATES AT BELFAST CITY HALL CEREMONY

More than 50 talented construction experts have been rewarded for their commitment to professionalism at a graduation ceremony at Belfast’s City Hall on November 16. As well as four new fellows, the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) celebrated dozens of Chartered members. Graduates from across Ireland and Northern Ireland donned gowns as they took to the stage to collect their certificates at the largest graduation event CIOB’s Northern Ireland Hub has seen in recent years. Caroline Gumble, CEO at CIOB, said,

“I want to congratulate the new members, new fellows and our new company member who joined us for our wonderful Belfast graduation event. “It is no easy thing to achieve chartered status, but it means that our community of construction professionals is growing and helping to drive the industry forward in the most meaningful ways.” The event was opened by CIOB Northern Ireland Hub Chair Jonathan Payne and overseen by Councillor Micky Murray, the Lord Mayor of Belfast, with more than 150 guests in attendance.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

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NEWS

GRAHAM TOPS THE TOP 100 INCLUSIVE UK EMPLOYERS INDEX 2024

Mallusk-based Brett Martin has completed new projects with two of the English Premier League’s most prestigious football clubs. The leading plastics manufacturer provided high-performance, transparent polycarbonate roofing for refurbishments to Emirates Stadium in Holloway, London, as well as for the new Everton ground at Bramley Moore Dock. The Emirates, a £390m, 60,000- seat ground for which Brett Martin provided the roofing when it was originally built, was recently renovated. A crucial light-emitting roofing was replaced, with a total of 7,827sqm of Brett Martin’s Marlon CS and Marlon FSX polycarbonate sheets installed to refurbish the entire roof of the stadium. The Everton project saw Brett Martin provide the high-performance, transparent polycarbonate for the new £555m stadium viewed as key to the regeneration of that part of Merseyside. Covering over 6,000sqm of the stadium roof, the specialist polycarbonate material transmits sunlight through to the pitch, helping to ensure a high-quality surface for many of the world’s top footballers to play on. www.brettmartin.com BRETT MARTIN COMPLETES TWO MAJOR PREMIER LEAGUE STADIUM PROJECTS

GRAHAM has achieved the number one spot in the Top 100 Inclusive UK Employers Index 2024, earning the prestigious titles of Organisation of the Year and Construction Company of the Year. The Top 100 Inclusive UK Employers Index highlights organisations that excel in Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement (FREDIE). The rankings are derived from employee feedback gathered during the Investors in Diversity accreditation process, with results benchmarked using an independent algorithm. GRAHAM’s Fairness, Inclusion, and Respect (FIR) action plan tackles underrepresentation and creates an inclusive workplace. Key initiatives include clear and actionable policies, awareness campaigns, employee network groups and effective communications strategies. Meanwhile, recent contracts secured by GRAHAM include £80m Alkerden Academy, a new hub for education

Andrew Bill, CEO, GRAHAM Group.

in Ebbsfleet Garden City, Kent, and a construction partner role for Greystar’s Stratford Mill residential development regenerating a brownfield site in Stratford, East London with high-quality housing and community amenities. www.graham.co.uk

Artist’s impression of the DVA Test Centre in Mallusk.

NEW MALLUSK DVA TEST CENTRE TO BE CONSTRUCTED BY HENRY BROTHERS

Henry Brothers has been appointed to deliver the design and build of a new £13.5m Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) Test Centre and two-storey administrative building in Mallusk. This project will modernise and expand the vehicle testing infrastructure in Northern Ireland, with facilities enhancing the DVA’s ability to provide essential services to the public. The new Test Centre will feature a 10- lane vehicle testing area including two pit-based inspection lanes for heavy goods vehicles, seven ramp-based lanes for light vehicles, and a dedicated bay for

motorcycle testing. External works will include the

development of a new internal road network, car parking, and an off-road motorcycle driving test track to improve operational efficiency and accessibility. Meanwhile, Henry Brothers Construction has been appointed to a £9m project for the refurbishment of Wolverhampton Police Station, with work due to start on site in March 2025, and the Henry Group was recently announced as a new NI Chamber Patron. www.henrybrothers.co.uk

Emirates Stadium, London.

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SKILLBUILD 2024

MICHAEL UMEUKEJE FROM ERRIGAL CONTRACTS SECURED A GOLD MEDAL IN THE DRYLINING CATEGORY, WITH FOUR OTHER APPRENTICES ALSO PLACING IN THE TOP THREE UK-WIDE… Success for local construction students at the SkillBuild National Final

Fourteen local construction students recently represented local colleges, training providers and employers at the SkillBuild National Final 2024, achieving five accolades including one gold, one silver and three bronze medals in bricklaying, carpentry, dry lining and joinery. SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. The prestigious competition brings together highly-skilled learners and apprentices to battle it out to be crowned winner of their chosen trade. Following the NI Regional Qualifier, which took place at South West College earlier this year, the National Final took place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes over November 19-21. The event attracted around 1,500 visitors, exhibiting the variety of skills and career opportunities available within the industry. Across the three days, competitors were tasked with constructing a project designed by an expert panel of judges, within an 18-hour timeframe. The project tests the individual’s knowledge and skills, as well as their ability to work under pressure, ensuring they adhere to health and safety protocols. Barry Neilson OBE, CITB NI Chief Executive, said, “Huge congratulations to all the competitors, it is a fantastic achievement to compete at this level and be ambassadors for the colleges, employers and their trades. At a time when the industry is going through a skills shortage, it’s vital that we support this next generation of talent and encourage them to pursue their passions. “It is an incredible achievement that five medals were achieved from team Northern Ireland; this is great news for the competitors, the colleges and the local training network.” Plans are now in place for the 2025 SkillBuild NI Inter Campus competitions in January/February 2025 and the Regional Final in spring 2025.

Team Northern Ireland heading to Milton Keynes for the SkillBuild National Final.

NORTHERN IRELAND’S WINNERS

Skill

Name

College/Employer

Bricklaying

Matthew Carswell

3rd

Southern Regional College

Carpentry

Jeremiasz Guzik

3rd

Northern Regional College

Drylining

Owen Quinn

2nd

Errigal Contracts

Drylining

Michael Umeukeje

1st

Errigal Contracts

Joinery

Charlie Fleck

3rd

Northern Regional College

If you or someone you know are interested in taking part in next year’s competition, visit www.goconstruct. org/skillbuild/ for more information. For further information on CITB NI and its services, visit www.citbni.org. uk or follow CITB NI on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn #CITBNI60

Clockwise from top left: Matthew Carswell, Michael Umeukeje (main image), Owen Quinn, Jeremiasz Guzik and Charlie Fleck.

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NEWS

OWNED BY THE SIMPSON STRONG-TIE GROUP, FRIULSIDER MANUFACTURING PRODUCES PREMIUM SPECIFICATION MECHANICAL ANCHORS, NYLON PLUGS AND FASTENINGS… Producing high-quality fixing systems for over 50 years

Friulsider Manufacturing, acquired by the Simpson Strong-Tie group in 2022, has 57 years of experience in producing premium specification mechanical anchors, nylon plugs and fastenings at its state-of-the-art facility in Italy. Its production workshop produces up to 4,000 tonnes of metal fasteners each year, including carbon steel, A2 and A4 stainless steel, brass and aluminum lines. Friulsider controls all steel processing stages internally, including: • Cold forming anchor studs and other bolted assemblies • Stamping of metal sheets for the manufacture of dowel expansion rings, washers and other components • Production of self-drilling screws, impact anchors, bi-metal screws and screws on demand To find out more, visit www.strongtie.co.uk/anchor-systems

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CIOB NEWS

construction PROFESSIONAL

CIOB CHIEF EXECUTIVE CAROLINE GUMBLE TELLS NI BUILDER ABOUT HER RECENT TRIP TO BELFAST, WHERE SHE HIGHLIGHTED THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION PROFESSIONALS DEMONSTRATING THEIR COMPETENCE AND ETHICS… Ensuring the quality of our built environment

I have recently returned from a trip to Belfast, attending one of our graduation ceremonies, greeting many new Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) members at the beautiful City Hall. It was a wonderful occasion, at which we were joined by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Micky Murray, plus some of the leaders of the CIOB community in Ireland: Jonathan Payne FCIOB, Chair of our Northern Ireland Hub, Annette Main MCIOB, Chair of our Republic of Ireland Hub, and Noel McKee FCIOB, a CIOB Trustee. When we hold graduation events, I remind members that what they do really matters. It is our industry that works to create the homes, hospitals, schools and infrastructure that are all essential for a good quality of life. The work of construction professionals leaves a legacy. I also remind them of the responsibility they hold and to reflect on what they can do, as individuals, to ensure the quality of our built

It is so clear, given what we’ve seen of the worst that can happen when safety and quality are compromised, that we need ethical, competent, modern professionals to drive our industry forward. What is also clear is that chartered membership of a professional institute is evidence of competency and, importantly, of a commitment to delivering the quality and high standards that we all want to see. Although the fundamentals of competency have been an incredibly important part of being a CIOB member for many years, it’s undeniable that this will become more important in the built environment in years to come. There will be an increased scrutiny on all of us construction professionals and proving your level of competence will be critical. The behaviours we see from leaders - and leaders to be - inform the culture of construction companies, set the standards and offer the examples. People who are prepared to demonstrate ethical, professional behaviours are needed in this industry. As a professional institute, we

Caroline Gumble, CEO, CIOB.

environment. It is a part of the speech that I emphasise - knowing that so much of what they do leaves a legacy, the commitment to maintaining the high standards required to leave a positive legacy is vital.

know we also have a part to play - demonstrating competence is not the only reason to join a professional institute. We are there as part of your support network in maintaining the highest standards and keeping up with the best industry practice.

“We need ethical, competent, modern professionals to drive our industry forward.”

Julie Fitzsimmons, Member Services and Events Coordinator ‑ Northern Ireland T: +44 (0)1344 630 729 - M: +44 (0)7760 164 101 - E: jfitzsimmons@ciob.org.uk www.ciob.org

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CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS FEDERATION THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

A STAR-STUDDED DINNER WILL BE HELD IN TITANIC BELFAST ON MARCH 27, 2025, TO CELEBRATE THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS FEDERATION… NI Construction Gala Dinner – Hold the date

The Construction Employers Federation is set to host a Northern Ireland Construction Gala Dinner in March 2025 to mark its 80th anniversary. The star-studded black-tie dinner will be held at Titanic Belfast on Thursday, March 27, 2025 and will celebrate NI’s construction industry heritage as well as looking forward to the next generation of talent. Star guest for the night is Kevin McCloud from Channel 4’s Grand Designs, with Pamela Ballantine hosting the evening, comedy to be provided by Neil Delamere and a live band set to entertain guests. Themed Celebrating the Past, Building the Future, the glittering night will celebrate eight decades of achievements, landmark projects and the businesses and people who have built Northern Ireland. Expect historical memories, celebration of local legends and a lookahead to the future of the sector. The NI Construction Gala Dinner will play host to students and

Gala star guest, Kevin McCloud from Channel 4’s Grand Designs.

apprentices carving out their future in Northern Ireland construction, as they take their place in shaping construction here into the next century. Affordable sponsorship opportunities are available to get involved in this landmark opportunity for networking and celebration.

CEF is also offering the opportunity to sponsor places for the next generation, by supporting the cost of seats for students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to access such a prestigious event. Be quick as these are already being snapped up. To get involved, or book a table or seats, contact Tracy at TracyW@cefni.co.uk

80 T

 028 9087 7143 E: tracyw@cefni.co.uk

Book your table

NORTHERN IRELAND CONSTRUCTION GALA DINNER

27 • 03 • 25

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

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CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS FEDERATION THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

As the acute challenge facing many homebuilders in Northern Ireland with respect to being able to connect new homes to the water and wastewater network exacerbates further, we have continued to advocate for short-, medium- and long-term solutions. This has included: • CEF Chief Executive Mark Spence’s address to the Minister for Infrastructure and his response at the CEF Awards. • Joining with colleagues at the Royal Society of Ulster Architects to brief the NI Assembly’s Infrastructure Committee in October. • A significant number of TV and radio media appearances and articles. • Direct engagement with NI Water on engineering solutions. • A meeting with Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA. • A joint letter with the NI Chamber of Commerce and NI Federation of Housing Associations to the finance and infrastructure ministers calling for a 10th priority in the Executive’s Programme for Government focused on infrastructure funding. The letter also calls for a comprehensive review of alternative governance arrangements for NI Water, led by suitably qualified experts and guided by the recommendations set out in the NI Audit Office report from March 2024. CEF maintains focus on crisis facing homebuilding

H&S initiative serves as a timely reminder of key risks IN A CEF SURVEY OF MEMBERS, 88% OF RESPONDENTS AGREED ITS ANNUAL SAFETY REBOOT PROGRAMME RETURNING IN JANUARY 2025 IS A USEFUL AND ENGAGING INITIATIVE…

Safety Reboot, CEF’s annual health and safety initiative, is returning in January 2025. The initiative encourages the construction industry to stop for about 15 minutes, once a week during January to focus on key areas of health and safety.

Members of the CEF Health & Safety Committee launch #SafetyReboot2025.

CEF surveyed members in August and the results were

will also be collaborating with Niall Hollywood from Hollywood Fitness to highlight some positive steps every individual can take to promote their own wellbeing. The industry is encouraged to share the videos of Niall as widely as possible through social media, company WhatsApp groups etc and include them in stoppages with staff and the wider supply chain. Jonathan Caughey, Federation Manager at the CEF, said, “We are really excited that the industry will be again joining us by getting involved in #SafetyReboot2025. Health and safety is such an important part of every day on construction sites across Northern Ireland. “Safety Reboot gives the industry the opportunity to demonstrate its commitment by reminding staff and the wider supply chain of the key messages to keep themselves and their colleagues safe and healthy. Use the resources provided and don’t forget to share how you get involved across social media using the hashtag #SafetyReboot2025.”

overwhelmingly positive, with 88% of respondents agreeing that Safety Reboot was a useful and engaging initiative. Responses confirmed that the centrally-provided Safety Reboot resources enable the industry to provide a timely refresher on key risks to re-engage staff after the Christmas break to set them up for the year ahead. Taking feedback on board, there will be some videos available and additional posters to ensure #SafetyReboot2025 is visible on site throughout January along with QR codes to make the resources more accessible. Based on feedback from the survey, 11 topics have been retained as key areas of focus for the industry. CEF’s Health and Safety Committee has reviewed and refreshed the resources, where possible, to ensure they remain current and reflect best practice. Last year’s focus on mental health was welcomed and CEF will use #SafetyReboot2025 to continue to remind the industry of the Building Mental Health Alliance signposting service. This year, it

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THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled the Autumn Budget on October 30.

UK Autumn Budget accelerates need for funding reform in Northern Ireland CEF CHIEF EXECUTIVE MARK SPENCE LOOKS AT NEW PROCUREMENT AND BUILDING REGULATION RULES, AS WELL AS THE IMPACT OF THE AUTUMN BUDGET ON NORTHERN IRELAND’S CAPITAL BUDGET AND SPENDING PLANS…

FOCUS SHIFTS TO EXECUTIVE’S SPENDING PLANS As we move into 2025, much of our early-year focus will be on responding to the Executive’s draft Budget for 2025/26. This will then be closely followed by the UK Government announcing the outcome of its Comprehensive Spending Review 2026-29. This announcement will enable the Executive, for the first time in over 15 years, to set a multi-year budget and we will be pressing ministers to do this as soon as is practicable, given the benefits of this to the planning and delivery of

Our engagement on the issues facing homebuilding has refocused on the back of the outcome of the new Labour Government’s first Budget in October. While the £270m increase in the

2025/26 - £637m - the Executive would need to make significant reductions to the capital budgets of a number of departments. We do not believe that to be a sensible or sustainable approach. We therefore reiterated our view, and that of the NI Audit Office from their report earlier this year, that as the Executive moves towards consulting on how it will spend its 2025/26 Budget, it must a establish a review of how NI Water is funded, given how crucial that investment is to wider economic activity such as homebuilding and protecting our environment.

NI Executive’s capital budget in 2025/26 to £2.2bn is to be

welcomed - representing a year-on- year increase of 6.6% - it doesn’t, in our view, represent enough of an uplift to deal with the biggest challenge that the Executive faces - the need to reverse the decades of underfunding of our water and wastewater system. In order to fund NI Water to its required Price Control need in

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www.cefni.co.uk

Chiefly, the changes are in the areas of: • Means of escape • Internal fire spread - linings • Internal fire spread - structure • External fire spread • Facilities and access for NIFRS • Fire safety information • Automatic fire suppression systems On the last point, the requirement will relate to: • A building, containing one or more flats, with a storey more than 11m above ground level.

construction projects over a number of years.

several previous procedures, including the competitive procedure

with negotiation-restricted procedure, and competitive

IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW PROCUREMENT ACT Delayed from its original implementation date of November 2024, the new procurement rules will now come into effect at the end of February 2025. CPD is taking the lead on the Act’s implementation in Northern Ireland as it is expected that training for the industry will gradually roll out over the coming months – notably on how to use, and what will be contained within, the new central digital platform. Other changes include: • Cutting red tape: The regulations are designed to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, supporting more streamlined procurement processes. • Improved transparency: A fully open and transparent procurement system will allow everyone access to public procurement data, ensuring accountability and providing a clearer picture of public sector spending. • Faster emergency procedures: Procurement processes for emergency situations will be expedited, allowing urgent needs to be addressed more quickly and effectively. • Support for SMEs: Simplified procedures will encourage more small and medium-sized enterprises to bid for public contracts, ensuring a more inclusive marketplace. Competitive Flexible Procedure: One of the major changes is the introduction of a Competitive Flexible Procedure which replaces

dialogue. This new procedure gives contracting authorities the flexibility to design their tendering process according to the specific needs of each procurement. This approach can be particularly useful for complex contracts and allows for: • Post-tender negotiations (after open or selective tendering rounds). • Multi-stage negotiations following initial tenders. Other innovations in the Act offering new tools for procurement include: • Open frameworks: More adaptable contract frameworks. • Dynamic markets: Flexible market structures to better meet changing needs. • Direct award routes: Easier and more flexible procurement award methods. CHANGES TO BUILDING REGULATIONS COMING IN MAY 2025 After a consultation in the summer of 2023, DoF Building Regulations have now moved forward with amendments to Technical Booklets E and R. The changes to Technical Booklets E and R take effect from May 6, 2025. The previous editions will continue to apply to work started before May 6, 2025, or to work subject to a building notice or full plans application submitted before that date. The changes predominately relate to Part E - Fire safety, and are the first of the major uplifts linked to the UK Building Safety Act 2022 to be taken forward in Northern Ireland.

• A building, containing purpose-built student

accommodation, with a storey more than 11m above ground level. For newbuild housing, a consultation on the Phase 3 uplift is likely in the first half of 2025. NEW HOMES CODE AND OMBUDSMAN TAKE A STEP FORWARD In October, the UK Government announced it was going to implement a single mandatory consumer code for all housebuilders. Additionally, it would also activate the New Homes Ombudsman Scheme. There is no exact timescale for this as yet in Northern Ireland, but we are engaging with the New Homes Quality Board on it and will advise members of the steps they will need to take in due course. “As the Executive moves towards consulting on how it will spend its 2025/26 Budget, it must establish a review of how NI Water is funded.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

MILL STRAND INTEGRATED SCHOOL & NURSERY, PORTRUSH

PRIDING ITSELF ON COLLABORATION WITH STAKEHOLDERS, LOWRY BUILDING & CIVIL ENGINEERING WORKED ALONGSIDE THE PROJECT TEAM TO INTRODUCE ENERGY-EFFICIENT MEASURES, ENHANCE NATURAL LIGHT THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL AND INCORPORATE A BESPOKE MURAL… BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN PORTRUSH

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd (LBCE) has transformed a challenging brownfield site in Portrush into a new energy-efficient primary school and nursery. Significantly enhancing the North Coast’s educational offer, the £12.5m design-and- build project was funded through the UK Government’s Fresh Start Programme supporting shared and integrated education. LBCE was appointed as main contractor by the Trustees of Mill Strand Integrated Primary School (IPS), with construction beginning in February 2023 and completing in July 2024. It was tasked with redeveloping the 4.5-acre site of an old catering college

on the Ballywillan Road, to provide a 14-classroom primary school and double nursery unit. As well as achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating, the project specified compliance with the latest building regulations and the Education Authority Handbook. Among challenges encountered during the project were ground conditions at the brownfield site, with the old catering college built during a time of asbestos use. Extensive site investigations were necessary to rule out any risk to staff and pupils of the new school. Adam Lowry, Quantity Surveyor at LBCE, said, “Being only a stone’s throw to the sea in Portrush also created a challenge, with a mixture of poor ground conditions

containing peat and running sand. Our integrated supply team seamlessly resolved all ground conditions issues by designing and installing piled foundations to all buildings throughout the site.” Charged with enhancing the presence of natural daylight throughout the buildings, LBCE worked alongside its design partners, Isherwood + Ellis, Integrated Services Design and OCSC, taking on board McAdam Stage 3 design and working with the client and stakeholders to provide an ultra-low pitch roof with major rooflights and sloping internal lightwells. Additionally, an internal courtyard with extensive curtain walling ensures that every classroom, resource area and

“The quality of the end product speaks for itself.”

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PROJECT PROFILE

MILL STRAND INTEGRATED SCHOOL & NURSERY, PORTRUSH

corridor is flooded with natural daylight. A final challenge for the LBCE project team to overcome, which really sets the new school off aesthetically, was the engraving and installation of the school’s bespoke designed mural across the front elevation on natural rock panel boarding, requiring careful collaboration between artist, designers, engineers, fabricators and installers. Knowing how much this meant to the client, several samples were provided for approval and then meticulous craftsmanship ensued to deliver a finished product that required hundreds of engraved lines to match up across tens of panels with zero tolerance. Artist Stephanie Heckman was commissioned as a special resource to design the school’s bespoke mural, which was engraved using the latest CNC technology. Successfully achieving the BREEAM Excellent rating, the building uses the latest technology in energy efficiency including heat recovery, rainwater harvesting and solar PVs. “The most satisfying part of the project, as with any education project, was the

handover to the staff and pupils,” said Adam. “Seeing the facilities they were coming from made it so clear how much they appreciated this state-of-the-art new build. The quality of the end product speaks for itself, and it will no doubt be an award winner in the future.” LBCE is a leading contractor based in modern offices in the centre of Castlederg and Belfast, and carrying out public and private projects across a range of sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, utilities, residential and facilities management. Founded in 1961 by Jack Lowry, it has grown steadily ever since to now employ a team of 120. The company’s family ethos and focus on collaboration with clients and project stakeholders sets it apart from the competition, allowing LBCE to successfully complete some of the province’s most notable projects. “We pride ourselves on being solutions- driven and providing quality construction works that can be enjoyed by generations,” said Adam. “In this case, the children and families in the Portrush area now have a secure, safe and special space to build strong foundations for their futures.”

Officially opening the new school, Education Minister Paul Givan said, “I appreciate the opportunity to be here to celebrate the opening of these magnificent new facilities. “The opening of a new school is testament to the perseverance and dedication of all those involved in the journey to deliver the facilities that our teachers deserve, to provide the highest standard of education possible for our children and young people.” PROJECT TEAM... Client: Trustees of Mill Strand IPS Main contractor: Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd

Architect: Isherwood + Ellis Integrated consultant team: McAdam, JCP Civil & structural consultant: O’Connor Sutton Cronin

M&E consultant: IS Integrated Services Design

7 John Street, Castlederg BT817AW T: +44 (0)28 8167 8646 - E: info@lowrybuilding.co.uk www.lowrybuilding.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

MILL STRAND INTEGRATED SCHOOL & NURSERY, PORTRUSH

SIXTY VELUX MODULAR SKYLIGHT (VMS) UNITS WERE SUPPLIED TO THE MAIN CONTRACTOR IN VARIOUS SIZES AND CONFIGURATIONS, FLOODING THE NEW SCHOOL WITH NATURAL LIGHT… ROOFLIGHT SYSTEMS

VELUX Commercial, a specialist in daylight and ventilation solutions for industrial, commercial and public buildings, supplied 60 VELUX Modular Skylight (VMS) units to Mill Strand Integrated School & Nursery. Representing its first major project in partnership with Lowry Building & Civil Engineering (LBCE), VELUX Commercial provided the VMS units on a supply- only basis with the main contractor completing the installation. LBCE provided VELUX Commercial with a specification for the units, which vary in size and functionality, with the two partners working closely from the early stages of the project. Featuring Integra Control System and Open System functionality, the pre- mounted blinds were supplied in three configurations: 900mmx1,600mm (fixed

and venting), 800mmx2,200mm (fixed) and 800mmx2,400mm (smoke venting). Roy Glennon, Area Sales Manager Ireland, said, “Lowry Building & Civil Engineering took on the install themselves, and we supplied the documentation and back up. There were two site visits as part of that, one of which was pre-installation just to chat through what was involved and then during the installation process to make sure it was going smoothly.” Maximising natural daylight was a key feature of the school design, with the VMS arranged in banks of twos and threes throughout the building’s low- pitch roof. With VMS widely used in the education sector, and strong collaboration between LBCE and its sub-contractor, the project ran smoothly. “Where we find it becomes more

complex is when you’re not involved at the design stage,” said Roy. “With LBCE, there was great communication throughout the project. They were a pleasure to work with and were very comfortable about taking on the installation process.” Proving popular across projects, whether conservation updates or new builds, VELUX Commercial’s VMS units are available in a range of sizes and configurations. Manufactured in the UK, the products can be installed with prefabrication and preinstalled blinds, reducing the need for third-party sub-contractors on busy sites. Part of the VELUX Group, VELUX Commercial’s range extends from high-end bespoke glazing solutions for commercial and prestigious architectural buildings to domes, access hatches, smoke ventilation and continuous roof lights for industrial, warehouse and agricultural buildings.

T: +44 (0)1592 778 225 - E: sales@veluxcommercial.co.uk for enquiries across Ireland: roy.glennon@velux.ie www.commercial.velux.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

MILL STRAND INTEGRATED SCHOOL & NURSERY, PORTRUSH

A COMPREHENSIVE PACKAGE DELIVERED BY R&F MECHANICAL SERVICES INCLUDED MECHANICAL VENTILATION AND HEAT RECOVERY THROUGHOUT THE BUILDING, DOMESTIC WATER AND SANITARYWARE… MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR

R&F Mechanical Services has continued to expand its strong portfolio of projects delivered with Lowry Building & Civil Engineering (LBCE) with the Mill Strand Integrated Primary School & Nursery project. R&F was contracted to provide comprehensive mechanical services for the 14-classroom primary school, associated school meals accommodation and adjacent nursery complex. The mechanical services package included mechanical ventilation and heat recovery throughout the building, domestic water and sanitaryware installations. Also included were a rainwater harvesting system, LPG-fired high efficiency boilers, gas isolation systems, underfloor heating system and radiant panel heating, all controlled by a Building Energy Management System. With the project targeting a BREEAM rating of Excellent, all practicable credits within the

mechanical services package were obtained with specific focus on the selection of plant to ensure compliance with the targets to minimise lifecycle carbon emissions, pollution and water consumption. With R&F’s team and its key supply chain partners experienced in delivering high- quality installations to an exacting standard, the project was delivered to meet the BREEAM Excellent rating. R&F Mechanical Services is renowned for the delivery of complex, high-quality projects, particularly within the healthcare environment. Andrew Dickson, Managing Director, said, “This project helped extend our growing education portfolio, with numerous primary and post primary projects delivered since 2020. The close integration of the various services on the site to meet the project specification and Department of Education

NI Handbook, whilst maintaining the desired aesthetic for the end-user, was critical and the successful delivery stands as testament to the hard work put in from all stakeholders. “R&F Mechanical Services maintained our strong working relationship with LBCE throughout the delivery phases of the project, and again formed a strong team to ensure the project requirements were delivered.” With R&F’s team and its key supply chain partners experienced in delivering high-quality installations to an exacting standard, the project was delivered to meet the BREEAM Excellent rating.

T: +44 (0)28 2766 2627 E: info@rfmechanical.com www.rfmechanical.com

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PROJECT PROFILE

MILL STRAND INTEGRATED SCHOOL & NURSERY, PORTRUSH

ALUMINIUM WINDOWS, DOORS AND CURTAIN WALLING Innovated Aluminium Technology Ltd (iAT) was awarded the contract for the manufacturing and installation of PPC aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling at Mill Strand Integrated School & Nursery. A design-and-build project, iAT’s involvement included liaison with the design team on various elements of its works to ensure they satisfied both the needs of the client and current building control regulations. Leslie McClements, General Manager at iAT, said, “The most challenging and rewarding element of the build was how to seamlessly integrate the curtain walling, glazing and louvres with the external cladding around the front elevation. Team iAT achieved this and the result was very architecturally pleasing. This was another successful project delivered on time and budget for Lowry Building & Civil Engineering.” iAT supplied aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and aluminium glazing systems throughout the UK. Located in Eglinton, it is recognised as a high-quality, aluminium fabricator of architectural glazing systems.

DESIGN TEAM McAdam was appointed as lead consultant and design team by the client, Trustees of Mill Strand IPS, charged with overseeing the design-and-build project. In addition to providing project management, architectural, engineering and CDM principal designer services across RIBA Stages 0-7, McAdam managed the contractor and its own design team building the project on site for RIBA 4-7. John Herron, Associate - Project Management, said, “The school design represents a more efficient layout and massing than previous projects, with low-pitch roofs allowing rooflights to be introduced throughout and improving the natural light penetrating resource areas and classrooms, enhancing the learning environment for pupils and teachers.” An issue around peaty ground conditions was resolved by using piling throughout, while other notable elements of the project included a courtyard design specified by the client and thermal and energy efficiency, with the school targeting BREEAM Excellent. “The project was very collaborative between McAdam, the contractor and the client, with any site issues being openly discussed, resolved and solutions achieved to benefit the project,” said John.

T: +44 (0)28 7181 0829 - E: info@iatltd.co.uk www.iatltd.co.uk

T: +44 (0)28 9040 2000 - E: admin@mcadamdesign.co.uk www.mcadamdesign.co.uk

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PROJECT PROFILE

MILL STRAND INTEGRATED SCHOOL & NURSERY, PORTRUSH

ROOF TRUSSES

CATERING EQUIPMENT

Commissioned by Lowry Building & Civil Engineering (LBCE) Ltd to design the timber roof structure for Mill Strand Integrated School & Nursery, Quinn Building Supplies was involved in the design-and-build project from its early stages. Fearghus Quinn, founder and

Stephens Catering Equipment (SCE), the leading catering equipment supplier in the UK and Ireland, was appointed by Lowry Building & Civil Engineering to design, supply and install a highly-efficient kitchen for Mill Strand Integrated Primary School. This project focused on advanced energy and labour-saving solutions to future-proof the kitchen for an anticipated increase in student numbers. Key installations included Rational iCombi Pro ovens, the iVario Pro L and a Hobart AUP dishwasher with a soil removal system. SCE’s in-house fabrication department produced a custom canopy, central spine and stainless-steel tabling for a seamless, durable fit-out. With nearly 50 years of industry expertise, SCE is proud to continue its strong partnership with Lowry Building & Civil Engineering. Operating from offices in Broughshane, Belfast, Donegal, Dublin and Glasgow, SCE delivers a flexible, customer- focused approach to clients across diverse sectors in an evolving marketplace.

Managing Director, said, “The project represented an interesting challenge for us, with the school featuring an unusually low pitch to its roof, and requiring support for its large rooflights and internal lightwells. “This required precise collaboration with other specialist contractors and detailed surveying on site as the build progressed. “BIM modelling and regular reviews with the expert project team at LBCE, design team and other specialist contractors ensured all requirements could be encompassed in our design prior to manufacture and delivery of trusses.” Having partnered with LBCE on a number of technically- challenging projects, Fearghus said the main contractor is always a pleasure to work with and Quinn Building Supplies wishes the firm continued success for the future. Quinn Building Supplies is a builders’ merchant, timber importer and specialist manufacturer of roof trusses and engineered joists.

T: +44 (0)28 8673 7655 E: fearghus.quinn@quinnbuildingsupplies.com www.quinnbuildingsupplies.com

Contact Curtis Murray: E: cmurray@stephens-catering.com T: +44 (0)28 2586 1711 - www.stephenscateringequipment.com

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