Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for November 2007
30/11/2007
Engineers Ireland will announce the winners of the 'Innovation Company of the Year' and 'Innovation Engineer of the Year' Awards at a breakfast briefing taking place at 8.00am on Wednesday, December 12 in Clyde Road. The Innovation Awards are designed to highlight cutting-edge innovation and excell
30/11/2007
Edward Holdings has submitted a planning application for 'Phase 2' of the Southbank regeneration in Drogheda. The €200m plans include one of Ireland's tallest buildings - with 25 residential floors - a state-of-the art conference centre, spa, eight screen cinema and provision for additional retail
30/11/2007
ArcelorMittal, the world's biggest steel producer, has signed a deal with Ecocem cement group to build a cement factory in the south of France. The €27 million joint venture will give Ecocem a 70 per cent stake in the business. Ecocem has invested €6m in the new venture whilst ArcelorMittal has i
30/11/2007
A definitive guide to understanding Northern Ireland's changing skills profile, problems in filling vacancies and related skills and training 'gaps' has been launched by the Government. The Department for Employment and Learning has published the document, Northern Ireland Skills Monitoring Survey
30/11/2007
Property developers have made bids of over €200m for two top sporting venues which occupy over 80 acres of land in North Dublin. Parnell Park, home of Dublin GAA and neighbouring Clontarf Golf Club have been singled out for their development potential. Capal developments have presented the golf cl
30/11/2007
The Bord Gáis sponsored archaeological publication entitled 'The Bronze Age Landscape of the Pipeline to the West' has been launched by John Gormley, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government at the Royal Irish Academy, Dawson Street, Dublin. The publication recounts the story of
30/11/2007
Despite daily headlines predicting nothing but doom and gloom for the property sector, there is still ample opportunity for the canny investor according to Mike Goddard, Chief Executive of Belvoir, one of the UK's leading lettings specialists. "Without a shadow of a doubt, property remains an excel
30/11/2007
A special graduation is being held today at Queen's University for six Belfast businesses which have managed to improve their environmental operations as well as reduce running costs. Belfast City Council, in partnership with ARENA Network and QUESTOR, are celebrating the outstanding achievements o
29/11/2007
Belfast's Bombardier Aerospace is to create 330 new jobs thanks to a production uplift. The Canadian company is stepping up production on CRJ700 and 900 regional jets, for which the Belfast based plant makes key components including wings and some of the fuselage. A Belfast spokesman said: "We wel
29/11/2007
Drain Master, the Antrim-based specialist in drainage services, has won its first deal in the US with help from Invest Northern Ireland. The company is supplying its innovative drain repair kits to a major client in Denver, Colorado. The contract follows the participation of Charlotte Adair, a Drai
29/11/2007
In what is their clearest and most unambiguous warning yet to Northern Ireland's construction industry, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) today gave notice: Be in no doubt, if you continue to ignore the law and put the lives of your workers at risk, or you will be prosecut
29/11/2007
Northern Ireland Assembly Minister Michelle Gildernew has met with representatives of Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) regarding proposals for a new North-South electricity interconnector. The proposals include a new substation close to the existing Magherafelt/Tandragee line and some 35 kilometr
29/11/2007
A Newtownabbey shopping centre is expected to get a major facelift after local councillors agreed to sell a section of land to assist the project. It is understood the multi-million pound proposal for the Abbeycentre will involve the demolition of part of the complex to make way for a new developme
29/11/2007
A new Streamlined Consultation Scheme between Planning Service and Derry City Council has been formally launched. The scheme, which will benefit all stakeholders in the planning process, will allow decisions on non-contentious planning applications for the Derry City Council area to be issued witho
29/11/2007
NHBC's latest statistics show that the principal housing type being started in Northern Ireland, England and Wales are flats and maisonettes. With the level of high-rise buildings increasing in recent years, according to NHBC's statistics, flats and maisonettes made up more than half (51 per cent)
29/11/2007
Environment Minister Arlene Foster has announced her intention to bring forward proposals for a wide-ranging reform of the planning system in Northern Ireland, and has appointed an independent expert advisor. The Minister said: "I want a planning system that supports and encourages sustainable econ
28/11/2007
One of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world is to build a new €200 million plant in Ireland, it has been announced. New Jersey-based Merck & Co is to use the plant to develop and manufacture human vaccines. The 65-acre site in the town of Carlow will create 170 new jobs. The move has
28/11/2007
Engineers and planners will welcome the announcement of free online access to the National Geotechnical Borehole Database. Eamon Ryan, Irish Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources said: "In light of the ongoing rapid expansion of Ireland’s economy it is imperative that accurate i
28/11/2007
Proposals for a €50 million district shopping centre for Ballinasloe have been submitted for approval, marking a surge in new developments for the area. Cork-based Harte Holdings and Clancy Construction have lodged the Ballinasloe application for an ambitious 10,850sqm scheme. The plans include an
28/11/2007
The logo for World Trade Centre Belfast has been revealed by Belfast City Council, the license holders for the WTC Belfast brand. Designed by local company, Albino Branding and Design, the logo reflects the aspirations of World Trade Centre Belfast to support the growth of world class companies fro
28/11/2007
Clare County Council today signed a €7m contract with P & D Lydon Plant Hire Ltd of Gortacurra, Cross, County Mayo to provide a Bundled Sewerage Scheme for five villages and towns in Clare. The Civil Engineering contract provides for a significant infrastructure investment in Scariff, Tuamgraney an
28/11/2007
International academics from Canada and Germany are in Belfast for two days, to share their knowledge and expertise on environmental issues. QUESTOR (Queen's University Environmental, Science and Technology Centre) hosted a seminar yesterday and will host another today. Supported by Belfast City C
28/11/2007
New mortgages have fallen by a quarter, an indication of a slowdown in the overall housing market and of a sluggish Irish economy - leaving the construction industry vulnerable. The number of new mortgages issued in the Republic of Ireland fell 25% in the three months to the end of September, new f
28/11/2007
One million man-hours have been spent on the £137 million M1/M2/Westlink upgrade in Belfast. Speaking during a visit to the M1/Westlink site, Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy welcomed the progress being made: "We have achieved a significant milestone of one million man hours. I would like
27/11/2007
A primary school in Bangor, Co. Down was forced to close after contractors caused a gas leak. The contractors were working at Ballyholme Primary School when they accidentally fractured the main gas pipe, causing the leak. Within half an hour of lessons starting, 600 children were evacuated from th
27/11/2007
The NI Finance Minister, Peter Robinson, outlined details of his review of domestic rates today in the Assembly with his announcement including a 'tax' on both derelict land and empty houses. Mr Robinson said that he plans to rate empty homes at 100% to encourage their use - as a potential boost fo
27/11/2007
Castlebar Town Council has taken legal action against a casino proprietor who flouted planning permission. A town councillor has claimed that the move has set a precedent. “The Council have been criticised in the past for not enforcing planning legislation but they were quick to act in this circum
27/11/2007
NI Assembly Policing and Justice Minister, Paul Goggins, is expected to reveal plans before the end of the year to develop the Provinces' prison estate in a bid to accommodate more adult male prisoners. The prison population is predicted to rise by almost 25% over the next five years. It is estima
27/11/2007
The slowdown in the output of Irish construction has led to an industry forecast group to reduce its output figures for next year's European market. Euroconstruct, an organisation that spans 19 countries across Europe, has predicted a reduced growth of 1.4% in European construction next year. In Ju
27/11/2007
The way has been paved for a serious counter bid to developer Seymour Sweeney's Giant's Causeway visitor centre. An official partnership between The National Trust and Moyle Council has been forged which should lead the way for a planning application to replace the council-owned visitor centre whic
27/11/2007
Planning permission has been sought for a £100m regeneration of Hilden Mill, Lisburn. If approved the scheme created by Hilden Developments (NI), an associate company of London-based developer Galliard, will see the former Coats Barbour textiles factory being transformed into 605 apartments of vari
27/11/2007
A move to Belfast's docklands has enabled the Jenkinson Group to expand their range of freight delivery services, from January it will offer an international courier service for Irish companies. The larger premises is on Belfast's West Bank Road near the Liverpool ferry berth. Jenkinson director
26/11/2007
Almost 50 directors and senior executives from 40 local companies are seeking to develop business in Hong Kong and China on an Invest Northern Ireland organised trade mission this week. The mission is one of the biggest ever from the United Kingdom to China and will be visiting the key commercial c
26/11/2007
The closure of south Belfast's Jubilee Maternity Hospital seven years ago has so far failed to trigger a promised £360m women and children's hospital, which now looks like facing further delays. Former Health Minister, Sinn Fein's Bairbre de Brun made the original, hotly disputed decision to close
26/11/2007
Roundabouts in Newtownabbey are set to have a massive makeover in a joint council and DRD Roads Service initiative. The Council plans to work with private sector partners to help fund the project. Michael Lipsett, the Council's Director of Leisure Services said: "Sponsors will be able to get invo
26/11/2007
Using timber frames in the construction of houses could help the building industry combat increasingly extreme weather in the UK, it has been claimed. Scotframe, a company that manufactures timber frame kit homes and supplies kit packages for self-builders, said that using timber frames is one of t
26/11/2007
The Cill Airne, Dublin Dockland's first floating bar and restaurant, has opened for business. The historic ship has been extensively renovated and will be based along the quayside at North Wall Quay. The ship will house two new restaurants, Quay 16 and Blue River Bistro. The Blue River Bistro is lo
26/11/2007
There has been a marked increase in liquidations in the construction sector after house prices fell for the eighth month in a row last month. According to Kieran Wallace of KPMG, over the last ten months 13 construction companies have gone into examinership, four companies have gone into receiversh
26/11/2007
Europe's showcase of business talents and capabilities are unveiled today when the names of 60 individuals and organisations that will receive the accolade of Ruban d'Honneur in this year’s European Business Awards are announced. Ireland confirms the dynamism of its economy by snatching four covete
26/11/2007
Northern Ireland First Minister Dr Ian Paisley has opened a state of the art housing project in Coleraine. The Brook Centre of Excellence provides specialist, homely living accommodation and support services for people with dementia. Built at a cost of over £5 million, the flagship development offe
23/11/2007
Northern Ireland householders have today been revealed as the biggest carbon wasters in the UK, according to a report conducted by the Energy Saving Trust (EST). County Down has been named the highest polluter in the UK having the biggest carbon footprints, while Belfast was revealed as one of the
23/11/2007
Work on the £7.4 million Ulster Hall refurbishment is progressing well. The major renovations which began in April seek to transform the Ulster Hall into a state-of-the-art multi-purpose venue while retaining, and in many cases restoring, the architecture, décor, opulence and character of the origi
23/11/2007
Sisk has been appointed the contract for the new Lansdowne Road Stadium Development Company (LRSDC). The New Stadium is a joint venture between the IRFU and the FAI with the Government providing €191 million towards the cost. Work on the construction of the new stadium began in May of this year wit
23/11/2007
One of Belfast's best known theatres is to benefit from a financial fillip. The Lyric has won a £250,000 boost to its building fund to go towards better facilities for young people within the new south Belfast theatre. The cash, from the foundation for Sport and the Arts, is likely to be a welcom
23/11/2007
Northern Ireland Executive Environment Minister Arlene Foster has pledged to reduce greenhouse gases with a new renewable energy planning policy. The Minister announced the publication of the draft policy (PPS 18) at the 2007 Northern Ireland Building Control Convention, the theme of which is 'Buil
23/11/2007
The allocation of €15,000 CLÁR funding to the Boyle Sewerage Scheme (ED Boyle Rural and Boyle Urban) in County Roscommon has been announced by Éamon Ó Cuív Dáil Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. This will enable a total value of works amounting to €30,000 to be carried out. Th
23/11/2007
County Antrim-based Brett Martin has completed the Galway racecourse stadium. This is the third recent completion of international sports stadia projects for the company which manufactures plastic products for construction. The company also provided bespoke roofing for Cricket World Cup venue the
23/11/2007
The development of a new pier in Doolin moved a step closer last evening when Clare County Council presented what it described as a 'viable development proposal' to Éamon Ó Cuív, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. In a meeting facilitated by Minister Tony Killeen, it was agreed by
22/11/2007
Over £1.5 million will be spent on the refurbishment of two popular Belfast bars. The Fly will get a new bar and night club while The Apartment will have two separate bars and a night club over three floors following the acquisition of the neighbouring premises on Donegall Square West. Stephen Ma
22/11/2007
Funding of €48,211 has been allocated in the CLÁR areas of Cork, Donegal and Monaghan for a single three-phase electricity conversion/installation for five businesses. For businesses/enterprises, Sports Clubs and Community Centres in CLÁR areas, the CLÁR programme pays their customer contribution
22/11/2007
The free national trade exhibitions Irish Water Waste Management (IRWM) are to be held on 5 - 6 March 2008 at the RDS in Dublin. Guided by steering committees that include representatives from the Department of Environment, Sustainable Energy Ireland, CEWEP, CIWM and Northern Ireland Water to name
22/11/2007
Donegal County Council has been given the go-ahead to prepare contract Documents for the Lough Mourne and Letterkenny Water Supply Scheme. The first two phases of the scheme are being funded under the 2007 - 2009 Water Services Investment Programme at a cost of €42.2 million. Mr. John Gormley, Dá
22/11/2007
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced details of its proposed decision to grant a licence to Dublin City Council to operate a waste incinerator at Poolbeg Peninsula in Dublin. The EPA is satisfied that emissions from the facility will not adversely affect human health or the envir
22/11/2007
Shares in the Irish stock market continued to fall in the first hours of trading this morning – and by more than on the other markets – with the already hard-pressed construction industry being particularly hard hit. While the current falls are widespread and happening on other exchanges and intern
22/11/2007
Irish cement maker Readymix have announced the acquisition of County Tipperary-based Denis Tarrant & Sons for €11.5 million in cash. The aggregate and ready-mixed concrete business had a turnover last year of €8.1 million and gross assets of €8.6 million. This includes cash in hand of €1.3 million.
22/11/2007
Fermanagh District Council has been fined £20,000 for water pollution. The council was also ordered to pay Enniskillen Magistrates Court analytical costs of £945.21 and court costs of £35. The council admitted to be struggling to cope with the amount of waste it was receiving at Glassmullagh land
21/11/2007
Belfast based Lagan Holding Ltd has signed a £6.92 million deal to redevelop part of the runway at Bermuda International Airport. Commissioned by Bermuda's Department of Airport Operations, the 16-week scheme at the Caribbean airport involves the milling of the existing pavement in addition to hot
21/11/2007
A feasibility study into the development of a commercial hub in the Andersonstown Gateway Area, which includes the former Barracks site, has been launched. The study will look into economic development opportunities for the area. The Assembly's Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said eco
21/11/2007
The development of a major new public park and amenity area at Castletroy in County Limerick will commence in early December, according to Limerick County Council. The announcement follows the signing of a €2.2 million contract between the Local Authority and contractor L&M Keating of Kilmihil, Co
21/11/2007
Those found guilty of causing light pollution may now be liable to court action. People who persistently leave lamps on unnecessarily could face prosecution, as the DoE gets tough on what is being called light pollution. DUP Environment Minister Arlene Foster has warned nuisance laws could be exte
21/11/2007
A £64m scheme to relay the line between Londonderry and Coleraine will commence by 2011. As the restriction on investment on the line was lifted the Assembly's Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, said: "That allows the department, now at last, to prepare a business case and an environmenta
21/11/2007
Phase one of the Parkland development at the former Hunter's lands, Barna, now to be known as "Hunter's Lands" Barna Lough Rusheen City Park will be officially opened by The Mayor of Galway City, Mr. Tom Costelloe, on Sunday at 2.30pm. Galway City Council acquired the lands which overall comprises
21/11/2007
Celestica's Galway facility has planned an expansion to allow for the manufacture of a new product for mobile phones and mp3 players; 120 jobs will be created. The majority of employees sought are science and engineering graduates. The investment is due to be officially announced by Dáil Enterpris
21/11/2007
Irish Minister of State and Clare TD, Tony Killeen has expressed confidence that work on a long sought-after roundabout on the Tulla Road in Ennis will commence in 2008. Following a submission to Ennis Town Council on behalf of residents of Oakleigh Woods and The Willows, Minister Killeen has learn
20/11/2007
A Halifax survey looking at the affordability of housing for Ireland's key public sector workers has found the situation is still very difficult for the vast majority. The downturn in the housing market has seen a slight improvement in the major cities, but public sector workers in rural Ireland a
20/11/2007
Business at bombardier Aerospace Belfast will be boosted from the signing of a £60 million aircraft order. The deal with Bombardier and Adria Airways from Slovenia is for three CRJ Next Gen regional aircrafts, key components for which are manufactured at the Belfast factory. The order from Adria
20/11/2007
The Dublin Docklands Development Authority has published a report on Play Space Guidelines intended to be used by developers, architects and landscape architects, and by those involved in the marketing and management of new developments in the Docklands area. The guidelines are specifically intend
20/11/2007
Leading business organisation, the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) is calling on MPs to investigate skills shortages and the conduct of recruitment agencies in the construction industry. A new select committee has recently been formed to oversee the work of the Department for Inno
20/11/2007
A survey carried out by Construction Industry Federation (CIF) members estimates the number of completed new homes in 2008 to be 33,000 - that's barely more than a third of the homes completed last year. The Irish Government's own forecast is 60,000 in 2008, which puts predicted economy growth at 3
20/11/2007
Over 50 jobs are being created at Hughes Christensen in east Belfast thanks to a £4.6 million investment by parent company Baker Hughes and support by Invest NI. Invest NI has offered £900,000 to the overall cost of the project, which will lead to 52 new jobs. Hughes Christensen specialises in the
20/11/2007
Strabane Mills Ltd has cut its fuel costs by 75 per cent and reduce its environmental impact thanks to an interest free Carbon Trust loan of £100,000 funded by Invest Northern Ireland. The County Tyrone firm produces pet and animal feeds by cooking and flaking maize at high temperatures. The energy
20/11/2007
Mouchel will work alongside the Roads Service Northern Ireland in developing the largest road project ever to be undertaken in Northern Ireland. The announcement by Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy follows Mouchel's appointment as Client Advisor to Roads Service Northern Ireland on the A5
19/11/2007
The European Commission has allocated €2.17 million towards sustainable energy projects in Ireland. The funding will be provided to Irish researchers in ocean, wind, geothermal and sustainable transport projects. This will complement the Government's investment of €149 million to Energy Research un
19/11/2007
Shell and its agents have been ordered by John Gormley, Dáil Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to restore a SAC (special area of conservation) site to its original condition following unauthorised works at Glengad, County Mayo. Drilling works and the installation of two bo
19/11/2007
A protest is planned in Meath today over EirGrid's decision to build high voltage overhead power lines linking the Single Electricity Market (SEM). Residents claim the lines which will run for 58 kilometres through County Meath to Tyrone pose a major health risk. Francis Lally, Meath Pylon Pressur
19/11/2007
Public consultation has begun on Ballymore Properties and partners €5.59 billion commercial property development in the London Docklands. The 17.5 acre site in the north-eastern corner of the isle of Dogs will be transformed into a brand new urban quarter; Wood Wharf with 1,400 homes and 4.8m sq ft
19/11/2007
A new voluntary code of practice set up by the National Property Services Regulatory Authority (NPSRA) for estate agents and auctioneers will allow complaints made by the public to be investigated. The code will remain voluntary until the act establishing the newly formed NPSRA is passed by the Oir
19/11/2007
The elite of US businesses are being lined up to attend May 2008's US-NI investment conference in Belfast. Economy Minister Nigel Dodds is currently on a five day trip to the US and Canada to attract CEO's from over 50 top companies. Among the people the minister will meet this week is Paula Dobri
19/11/2007
The 2007 Construction Manager of the Year Simon Byford, awarded by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), will present his award winning project, the 'Restoration of the HBOS Edinburgh Mound' at two major project management conferences in Dublin and Glasgow. These are part of a series of CIOB
19/11/2007
A cinema in Co. Mayo is to be demolished after permission was granted for the construction of a new office building on the site. The decision by An Bord Pleanála will see the site at Clare Street in Ballyhaunis transformed into a three-storey office building that will employ around 70 people. Sol
16/11/2007
The £223,370 improvement scheme of Warrenpoint's Dock Street area has been completed. Footpaths have been repaved, street lights improved, trees planted and new street furniture provided. The Assembly's Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, said: "Warrenpoint is already acknowledged as o
16/11/2007
Work is now underway on phase one of the €106.5m Western Rail Corridor redevelopment. The laying of tracks has begun on the line between Ennis and Athenry. The investment project delivered by Iarnród Éireann involves renewal of 36 miles of track, including all necessary fencing and drainage and i
16/11/2007
Profits have soared at Country Fermanagh based Quinn Group. According to the latest annual report pre-tax profit has risen from €326 million in 2005 to staggering €433 million 2006. Group turnover reached €1.45 billion compared with €1.21 billion in 2005. According to the accounts the bulk of the
16/11/2007
The proposed closure of a vital thorougfare is causing problems in Newtownabbey. The Hightown Road bridge from Glengormley to Mallusk and on to link with north Belfast is to close soon for a full year as a new, permanent structure over the M2 motorway is built. A short period of temporary closure
16/11/2007
The construction industry has the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) “by the short Olympic rings” according to a Labour MP. Austin Mitchell made the charge following the UK government’s admission that the entire £2.7bn contingency fund for the 2012 London Games is likely to be spent. The revelation
16/11/2007
Work has started in Clare Glen, Tandragee, to refurbish the park's footbridge over the River Cusher. Armagh City and District Council, which secured funding of almost £30,000 from the EU Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity NI through the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and
16/11/2007
There have been 32 redundancies at the McAfee Properties and Mortgages Group. The company, which has several offices along the north coast as well as in Ballymena and Antrim, has blamed the downturn in Northern Ireland's property market for the redundancies. The company, which still employs approx
16/11/2007
Specialist contractors in the UK are facing longer waits before receiving payment for work that has been carried out. The latest State of Trade report from the National Specialist Contractors’ Council (NSCC) indicated that 21 per cent of workers had reported periods were they had to wait 60-90 days
15/11/2007
The Northern Ireland Finance Minister put on a 'hard hat' and protective clothing for work this morning when he made two site visits to construction schemes in Belfast. Peter Robinson was launching a major initiative to promote excellence within the building industry in Northern Ireland. And to ill
15/11/2007
Job growth in the Irish construction sector has suffered further slowdown, a report published today has shown. New figures published by the Central Statistics Office says employment in this second increased by just 1.7 per cent in the year to the end of August, compared to 10.2 per cent in the prev
15/11/2007
The go-ahead has been given to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council to invite tenders for works to relieve flooding from the Carysfort-Maretimo Stream. Dáil Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley yesterday announced that the €3m scheme will be funded under his De
15/11/2007
A total of €63,930 has been allocated for improvements to roads in the south Tipperary area. Éamon Ó Cuív, Dáil Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs has announced the allocatiion under the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) Roads in CLÁR areas. CLÁR is a programme designed to tackle th
15/11/2007
A new survey has revealed that the average house in Northern Ireland has risen to over £250,000. The latest University of Ulster Quarterly Price Index, also showed the annual rate of house price growth slowed considerably in the third quarter of 2007 and the volume of sales has fallen sharply. The
15/11/2007
The €800,000 redevelopment of Store Street will be officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Paddy Bourke, tomorrow at 10am. The Store Street Plaza has been designed as a user-friendly space, with a unique sculpture at its centre. The plaza, designed by Costin Associates, is comple
15/11/2007
Architects have warned Dublin planners and developers to heed new apartment size regulations ahead of next month's high-rise proposals release. According to new regulations passed by Dublin City Council apartments must be at least 85sq.m in size and have windows front and back; that's 40 per cent b
15/11/2007
From January 2009, all residential property sold and rented in Ireland will be tested and given an energy rating based on newly introduced EU regulations. Europe introduced the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) as a major fight-back against climate change within the building sector.
14/11/2007
East Belfast is celebrating this morning as a local regeneration project has been awarded �23.5m of lottery funding. The Connswater Community Greenway has made the final cut for the lottery's Living Landmarks Fund for its project to create a park along the course of the Connswater river. Today's
14/11/2007
The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has announced £1.7 million of funding earmarked for the repair and regeneration of historic buildings within Derry's historic city centre. The Walled City Partnership's application for a second phase of its successful Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) has been awar
14/11/2007
Northern Ireland Environment Minister Arlene Foster has visited the award-winning Newcastle promenade to see how regeneration has transformed the town's seafront. Earlier this year, the promenade was awarded the prestigious UK Civic Trust Northern Ireland Public Realm Award, sponsored by the Northe
14/11/2007
Ulidia Housing Association has won two prestigious UK housing awards for its "Shared Future" social housing scheme in Enniskillen. The development at Carren Crescent is Northern Ireland's first mixed community social housing development and is the result of a partnership between Ulidia and the Nort
14/11/2007
Construction employers confidence has reached a five year low according to a survey by the Social Research Institute (ESRI) and FAS (Ireland's National Training and Employment Authority). Last month the net employment expectation indicator for the construction sector was down 25 per cent meaning t
14/11/2007
The 2012 London Olympics represent a huge opportunity for the Irish construction industry, a minister has said. Micheál Martin, the Minster for Enterprise, Trade and Employment was speaking at the Enterprise Ireland 'Building Towards London' conference in Dublin. The minister addressed the opportu
14/11/2007
A company has been fined £5,000 plus costs after pleading guilty to a breach of health and safety legislation, following the investigation of an incident where a maintenance worker received serious injuries. Ryobi Aluminium Casting (UK) was fined at Belfast Magistrates Court on 13 November. The i
14/11/2007
Tyrone TimberFrames is striving to provide self-builders and their architects the opportunity to plan and build energy efficient new build homes. Energy Performance Certificates are now commonplace in England and Wales, in compliance with the EU Directive these are expected to become mandatory on a
14/11/2007
A heating company, which developed a new solar water heating system, has been named as one of the winners at National Enterprise Week. Willis Heating & Plumbing received the accolade at a Celebration of Enterprise gala dinner last night at which local entrepreneurs were honoured for their contribut
13/11/2007
The Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed its earlier decision to grant a licence to Shell E&P Ireland Limited to develop gas refinery and combustion plant facilities at Bellanaboy Bridge, Bellagelly South, County Mayo. The licence provides for the processing of natural gas that will be exp
13/11/2007
Turnover at Dublin based construction company G and T Crampton has risen by staggering 22 per cent to €242.9 million. Accounts for 2006 show operating profit doubling to €9 million with pre-tax profits increasing five fold to €25.5 million. A huge chunk of the rise in profits is attributed to gain
13/11/2007
Andrew Grace from County Clare has been announced as the winner of the Engineers Ireland Chartered Engineer of the Year award, 2007. The competition winner was chosen from the 300 engineers who applied for the Chartered Engineer title in the past year. Andrew submitted details of his involvement a
13/11/2007
Cemex based in Naas, County Kildare, has announced plans to close, resulting in the loss of 50 jobs. The Mexican-based building materials firm says the facility is no longer sustainable due to the down-turn in the housing sector. However SIPTU, which represents workers at the plant, says it is sti
13/11/2007
Sebastian Coe, Chairman of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) is "impressed" by plans for Northern Ireland's first 50m swimming pool. Last week at an evening briefing for Local Authorities organised by the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA
13/11/2007
Up to 200,000 people involved in rental-sale transactions in Ireland will need Building Energy Rating (BER) certificates each year, according to Rod Dowling, Technical Director for QRS Renewable Systems and SEI accredited assessor. A BER (Building Energy Rating) is the standard calculation of the e
13/11/2007
A new innovation for ceiling and wall sanding has been just announced to the dry lining industry. Described as a 'drive along' ceiling and wall sander, a new tool called the Vezos HandySand, has just been introduced to the UK & Irish Dry Lining industry. Manufactured in Greece with full CE certif
13/11/2007
Clare County Council has signed a contract with Ward & Burke Ltd, County Galway to provide an improved local water network in Kilkee, Moyasta and surrounding areas. The Department of Environment Heritage and Loccal Government and Clare County Council are financing the €9.5 million project, which is
13/11/2007
A grant of €1.88 million has been sanctioned to carry out works on the main pier on Inishbofin, County Galway. These works are badly needed to make the pier safer, and to ensure its future condition. Dáil Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuíd, said: "These improvements
12/11/2007
Limerick based Atlas Aluminium has confirmed it will close before Christmas. In total 163 workers will lose their jobs. A company spokesperson attributed the decision to loss of substantial customer business contracts making operations no longer financially viable. The company will close in the n
12/11/2007
Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service's progress on investment totalling £1.6 million in the Moyle District year. Speaking ahead of this morning's meeting between Roads Service and Moyle District Council, the Minister said: "1.2km of resurfacing on the A2 Straid Road
12/11/2007
Mantis Cranes, the Irish manufacturer of self erecting cranes, has appointed Robert Rowlette as its new General Manager. Mr Rowlette, a chartered accountant and native of Sligo, has been associated with Mantis Cranes in a consultative capacity since the company was established in 1999. Prior to joi
12/11/2007
Four companies are in the running to build and operate the €5 billion Metro North Dublin rail line. According to the Irish Times each company have submitted a bid to the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA). The paper has mentioned a group called Dublin Express Link which comprises of tram operator Ke
12/11/2007
The new €120 million Pier D extension at Dublin Airport has been officially opened by the Taoiseach and Minister for Transport. The new traffic corridor is expected to cater for around 27,000 passengers every day, and the Dublin Airport Authority has said it will make the experience of passengers o
12/11/2007
One hundred jobs will be lost as South Midland Construction (SMC) goes into liquidation. The building and engineering firm has filed for liquidation to the High Court after the loss of major contracts has left the firm with €5 million in debts. The SMC Group, controlled by Dublin businessman Pheli
12/11/2007
Thousands of Euros are being wasted each day by Irish householders heating poorly insulated and ventilated homes, according to a leading energy expert. David McHugh has claimed that conservation is the key to reducing energy bills, which have been further affected by the 40 per cent increase in cru
12/11/2007
The North Eastern Eduaction and Library Board (NEELB)has been urged not to drag their feet over development plans for a new primary school in Ballyclare. Despite receiving a number of objections to the scheme, planners at Newtownabbey Borough Council this week gave the green light for the creation
09/11/2007
More than 160 people are expected to lose their jobs at Atlas Aluminium's Limerick plant as strikes continue for the 10th consecutive day. The workers have continued to man a 24-hour picket line at the Dock Road plant, as part of a row over pay and alleged unfair treatment of foreign workers. Mana
09/11/2007
According to AIB's November housing Market Bulletin there are no signs of a let up in the downturn in housing market activity. However output is adjusting towards sustainable demands. Housing registrations fell by 57 per cent in October and are now down by 41.5 per cent year-to-date. Meanwhile, com
09/11/2007
The first accredited air tightness test to be carried out in Northern Ireland has taken place in Lisburn. Airtightness Testing Services carried out the test on the private dwelling in the Hillhall Grange development for building contractors Ravara Developments. This is the first accredited test t
09/11/2007
Over €1.5 million of funding has been approved for a housing development at Kerry Lane, County Cork. The development involves the construction of six units of accommodation under the Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme with a total loan approval of €1.597 million. Speaking on Wednesday, Dáil Minister
09/11/2007
With ever increasing numbers of eastern Europeans coming to live and work in Northern Ireland, this week’s visit by the leader of the Czech people is being seen as all the more appropriate - especially as it will highlight the huge commercial redevelopment of Belfast's Titanic Quarter. Václav Klaus
09/11/2007
Drogheda Port Company have confirmed that Castle Market Holdings Limited (Castle Market), a subsidiary of Real Estate Opportunities Limited (REO), is their selected JV partner in the development of the Bremore deep-water Port following an open tender process. The parties have signed an Agreement wh
09/11/2007
Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness visited the former Ebrington Barracks site in Derry today to be updated on the ongoing regeneration work there. Speaking during his visit Mr McGuinness said: "It is highly appropriate that at this time of huge political progress, what was for
09/11/2007
Northern Ireland Environment Minister Arlene Foster has said that our built heritage is a valuable legacy to be enjoyed and appreciated by all. The Minister was speaking at an evening reception to launch the exhibition 'Defend and Inspire' which has been produced by the Ulster Architectural Heritag
08/11/2007
Local companies have been urged by Northern Ireland Assembly Economy Minister Nigel Dodds to seize export opportunities developing from the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012. The 'London 2012: Business Opportunities' conference, jointly organised by Invest Northern Ireland and Constructing Excel
08/11/2007
There has been a 3.3 year-on-year decrease in private firm employment in the construction industry. The Central Statistic Office have reported that the monthly employment index decreased from 113.8 in September 2006 to 110.0 in September 2007. The final figure for August 2007 showed a smaller decr
08/11/2007
An Bord Pleanala has quashed the Ardilea Residents Association's objection to building homes on Goatstown Road, near Trimblestown and granted planning permission to Sorohan builders. Sorohan builders will demolish the five existing houses on the road and replace them with 177 apartments and 18 hous
08/11/2007
More than 1,000 houses in Limerick may have to be demolished and rebuilt in an effort to combat the problem of social deprivation, it has been claimed. Brendan Kenny, the Chief Executive of the Limerick Southside Regeneration Agency (LSRA) has said the scale of the deprivations in the Southill and
08/11/2007
Bank of Ireland economist Dan McLaughlin has rejected suggestions that the slowdown of the housing market should force the government to consider its fiscal position. Dr McLaughlin branded talk of a need for tax cuts in the forthcoming budget as 'ridiculous' when the surplus on current daily spendi
08/11/2007
People must work together to tackle the massive environmental challenge of climate change, Northern Ireland Transport Minister Conor Murphy has announced. Speaking as he addressed an international conference delegation which included leading world climate change experts who arrived in Belfast today
08/11/2007
Bord Gáis Networks has held an information evening for community and business representatives in Westport to outline specific details of the construction programme to bring natural gas to the town and the benefits of this efficient, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly fuel for local business
08/11/2007
The MacDonagh Junction Kilkenny city quarter has officially opened. The €300 million development forms part of the city's Intregrated Area Plan which features over a 100 luxury apartments, 50 retail units, a hotel, office buildings, restaurants, performances space and a even bowling centre. An est
07/11/2007
Northern Ireland Assembly Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £12 million in Derry City Council area this year. Speaking ahead of tonight’s meeting between Roads Service and Derry City Council, the Minister said: “The preferred co
07/11/2007
The new state-of-the-art North Coast Wastewater Treatment Works in Portrush was opened today. Part of Northern Ireland Water's (NIW) £45 million North Coast Scheme, the new works is designed to comply with the strictest EU standards. This will ensure that even at peak holiday periods the North Coas
07/11/2007
A new agreement on North-South cooperation in geoscience is set to facilitate better services in areas such as water supply, infrastructure development, mineral exploration and tourism. There has been strong and growing cooperation between the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and the Geologica
07/11/2007
A chance to visit the former landfill site on Dargan Road is being offered to the public on Saturday November 10 by Belfast City Council. Belfast dumped its waste on the North Belfast site for more than 30 years, but it closed in March this year. Now the council is planning to transform this huge
07/11/2007
The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has released a Proposed National Hazardous Waste Management Plan for the prevention, reduction and management of hazardous waste in Ireland. The primary objectives of the Proposed Plan are to prevent and minimise hazardous waste and to manage, in an environm
07/11/2007
Northern Ireland's Economy Minister Nigel Dodds has visited Invest NI's Glenbank Business Park where he welcomed its first tenant, Integrated Services Design. Integrated Services Design is one of Northern Ireland's fastest growing Mechanical, Electrical & Environmental Consultants with offices in B
07/11/2007
The slump in the Irish housing market continues as latest figures show developments have fallen by 66 per cent in October. Potential homebuyers are said to be exercising more caution due rising borrowing costs and concerns about the downturn in property. According to Dublin based research compa
07/11/2007
George Best Belfast City Airport has won the latest stage of its bid to dramatically increase passenger numbers. A legal challenge over plans for another one million passengers a year at the east Belfast airport was dismissed today in the High Court. The five residents' groups that brought a legal
06/11/2007
Software giant Microsoft is planning to locate it's new European data centre in Dublin. The $500 million construction is due to be built at Grange Castle Business Park in the city. The new 51,000 square foot facility is expected to be completed by summer 2009 The centre will deliver Windows Live
06/11/2007
A Review of the Kilkee Traffic Management Plan is being proposed by Clare County Council. The plan is available for inspection at McSweeney Library, Kilkee during library opening hours and at Kilrush Civic Offices, The Town Hall, Kilrush during normal business hours from November 5 to December 17 2
06/11/2007
Northern Ireland Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, has welcomed Roads Service's progress on investment totalling £4.5million in the Newtownabbey Borough this year. Speaking ahead of tonight's meeting between Roads Service and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the Minister said: "Work for the
06/11/2007
Canopies Ireland is proud to have been serving its customers now for just over ten years, as Ireland’s largest manufacturer of G.R.P. innovative building components. Over the last decade Canopies Ireland has grown dramatically, operating from a 20,000 sq ft manufacturing facility, based just outsid
06/11/2007
Company directors and senior managers could face prosecution for workplace health and safety offences, Ireland's Health and Safety Authority has warned. That was the message at the launch of a new Health and Safety Authority publication 'Guidance for Directors and Senior Managers on their Responsib
06/11/2007
'Slow the Flow' a new water conservation initiative for Galway City will be launched later today at the Galway City Museum. The primary aim of the initiative established by Galway City Council is to encourage adults and children to reduce the volume of water that they use at home, at work and at sc
06/11/2007
The Mayor of Ennis has welcomed the announcement that formal approval has been given to Clare County Council to proceed with appointing a project design team for the proposed new County Library building in Ennis. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government’s granting of approva
06/11/2007
A company has been fined £1,500 plus costs after pleading guilty to breaches of health and safety legislation. Gabriel Kane trading as Northside Demolition was fined following the investigation of a complaint from a member of the public concerned about the demolition of St Peters Church Hall, Fortw
06/11/2007
A new £16.8 million purpose built Juvenile Justice Centre has been officially opened in Bangor, County Down. The construction at Woodlands was self-funded through the sale of surrounding land. The state-of-the-art building was unveiled by Secretary of State, Shaun Woodward. Mr Woodward said the p
05/11/2007
There has been high demand for the first residential development at Titanic Quarter. To date over 350 apartments at The Arc have been sold, confirming the appeal of living in what is Europe’s largest waterfront development. Given the level of interest in Titanic Quarter, both locally and internati
05/11/2007
The head of the National Trust has announced a new policy of obtaining green field sites in order to subvert the governments recently proposed housing plans. Sir William Proby, chairman of the trust, made the announcement at the National Trust's annual general meeting in London, and outlined his pr
05/11/2007
The Minister for Transport, Noel Dempsey TD, has officially opened the new N2 Clontibret to Castleblayney bypass. The new bypass was delivered on time and on budget. It is 15.9 km in length and is a realignment of the existing N2 National Primary Route from the townland of Moy Otra north of Clont
05/11/2007
Northern Ireland's Environment Minister Arlene Foster today visited Poundbury in Dorset at the invitation of The Prince of Wales. Poundbury is an urban extension to the town of Dorchester. It has been developed by The Prince to a masterplan by the international architect and planner Leon Kreir, and
05/11/2007
Energy Minister Eamon Ryan has announced a plan to install a smart electricity monitoring meter in every home across the country. The first phase will begin in 2008 with the installation of 25,000 smart meters in varied geographic locations. The roll-out of the programme will be coordinated by the
05/11/2007
NI Railways is advising passengers using Marino station halt that, due to upgrade work currently being carried out on the line, the platform in the Belfast direction will be closed the weekend of 17 November. The company has also announced that the Dunmurray station halt, in the directions of Belfa
05/11/2007
Plans to develop a three-story 45,000-sq ft library building and arts centre in the centre of Ennis have been given fresh impetus. The Government today informed Clare County Library that it could now proceed with appointing a project design team. Making the announcement Minister of State Tony Kill
05/11/2007
A programme of works has been put in place for Armagh Jail to prevent future damage and provide safe access for visitors, it has emerged. Lurgan-based company, Piper-hill Construction began carrying out the work on October 15 and it is due to be completed by December 21. A Government spokesperson
02/11/2007
Kilrea manufacturer, Mullin's Ice Cream, has officially opened its new factory and office premises after a £775 thousand investment programme assisted by Invest NI. The family-run business which employs 20 staff on the Kilrea site and has more than 50 scoop parlours across Northern Ireland, has exp
02/11/2007
Developers who buy the gardens of existing homes to cram in houses or apartments are being targeted by fresh guidelines. Environment Minister Arlene Foster said she recognised the "public concern on this matter" and, pending the outcome of a policy consideration, planners had been issued with a new
02/11/2007
Armagh has recorded the biggest increase in house prices of any city in the UK, according to a new report. The research, by Halifax Estate Agents, indicated that "urban regeneration" was one of the main reasons for the rise in prices. House prices in Armagh rose by 188 per cent over the past five
02/11/2007
The new Charlestown bypass in Co Mayo will open to traffic later today. The road forms part of the N5 between Westport and Longford. It will be officially opened by Transport Minister Noel Dempsey this afternoon. (GK/JM)
02/11/2007
Sligo Local Authorities are hosting two evenings of consultation on the proposed development of lands at Ballinode. The consultations are open to residents, community groups and all interested parties. The aim of these sessions is to provide an opportunity for Sligo Local Authorities to communicate
02/11/2007
Bord Gáis has announced the completion of the South-North Gas Pipeline and its use by homes and businesses in towns along its route. The 156km South-North transmission gas pipeline was constructed during 2006. It runs from Gormanston in Co Meath to Ballyclare in Co Antrim, where it ties in with th
02/11/2007
Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Éamon Ó Cuív has announced the allocation of €10,226 CLÁR top-up funding to Boleybrian Group Water Scheme (ED Croaghpatrick) in County Mayo. This will enable a total value of works amounting to €33,082 to be carried out. The remaining amount wil
02/11/2007
A leading social homes' provider has urged the Northern Ireland Executive to help cut waiting lists for social housing in the country by freeing up surplus land. BIH Housing Association said it could build quality social housing for rent at minimal cost if ministers and local government made the si
01/11/2007
Dunnes Stores are seeking planning permission for a €200 million distribution centre at Donabate, County Dublin. Plans include, 66,629 square metre floor space, a site security building, 595 car parking spaces, 252 lorry spaces and 61 loading docks. In total there are 158 stores in the Dunnes Gro
01/11/2007
The Institute of Technology in Tralee (IT Tralee) has announced details of a major €10.8 million infrastructure development on campus. Work has now commenced on a new state of the art library facility which will cover three floors and 3,529 square metres. The library building is expected to be fini
01/11/2007
The Regulatory Authorities for Energy in Ireland and Northern Ireland have announced a new electricity market for the island of Ireland commencing from Wednesday, November 1. The new market will be called the Single Electricity Market (SEM) and involves combining the two separate wholesale markets
01/11/2007
Around 1,000 jobs are being created today as a huge new landmark shopping centre is officially opened in Athlone. The €500 million Athlone Town Centre development is being described as one of Europe's biggest rejuvenation projects. Around 1,000 people are to work at the centre, which includes shop
01/11/2007
The Minister for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew, today officially launched the “North West Trail” at an event held in the Alley Arts and Conference Centre, Strabane. The eagerly awaited trail is a 326km signed circular cycle route that passes through countie
01/11/2007
A one-day Enterprise Ireland Irish Trade Mission to London is being led by the Minister for Enterprise Micheál Martin. The mission is aimed at ensuring Irish businesses are ready to benefit from opportunities surrounding the 2012 Olympics. The Minister will be holding talks with the Olympic Deliv
01/11/2007
Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today announced appointments to the Board of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Mr Brian Rowntree and Mrs Ann Henderson have been appointed for a further term as Chairman and Vice-Chair respectively. The appointments, for a term of five years, will
01/11/2007
New figures released show a massive leap in recycling figures in Armagh. Information unveiled by the Armagh City and District Council shows the rate of recycling since the introduction of 'kerbie' boxes and brown bins in 2002 has risen by 3,000 tonnes. Now over 30 per cent of all the waste collect
