Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for August 2009
28/08/2009
Reconstruction of the Malahide viaduct has started. Iarnród Éireann has begun work to facilitate repairs on the causeway that partially collapsed last Friday evening just moments after a train had passed across it. The rail company said it had today commenced bringing rock on site to rebuild the e
28/08/2009
The Construction Industry Federation of Ireland has called for a review of the public procurement process. The body's call comes after a €1.5m development at Finner Camp was awarded to a Northern Ireland firm. Contractors in the north west region of Ireland had also bid for the project. The CIF
28/08/2009
Over £500,000 has been made available by the government to transform vacant shop units into town centre dwellings. NI Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie said she had moved to secure funding for the Living Over the Shop (LOTS) Scheme, which helps 'breathe new life' and vitality into town
28/08/2009
Planning permission has been granted to an apartment development in Buncrana. Eleven new dwellings will be constructed at the Ardravan project. An original proposal for four three-storey townhouses at the same site will not be progressed. Donegal county council approved plans for the scheme at
28/08/2009
A joinery apprentice from Co Fermanagh has today headed off to represent the UK at WorldSkills Calgary 2009. NI Skills Minister, Sir Reg Empey, wished Trevor Woods every success at the event, which is the largest skills competition in the world. Trevor, a City and Guilds qualified apprentice at So
28/08/2009
Northern Ireland councillors should make their voices heard on proposals to reform the planning system, an assemblyman has said. Sinn Féin's Cathal Boylan has called on local representatives to challenge and "mould" reform laid out by the Department of Environment. The Newry MLA said: "Local gove
28/08/2009
Work has started on a new Limavady community centre building. The project has been back by the borough council and will be developed on the site of the former town hall building in Main Street. Works are due for completion in mid 2010. The centre is set to serve a wide range of community intere
28/08/2009
Larne council has called on the public to offer its views on a new multi sports complex in the town. A survey has been published illustrating three potential sites for the development. The public has been asked whether it prefers Antiville, Seacourt or Shanes Hill as the new location. Respond
28/08/2009
Major resurfacing works have been scheduled in Belfast over the Bank Holiday weekend, the Roads Service has announced. Work will take place on Nelson Street and Great Georges Street between 28 – 30 August. Road closures will be in place from 9pm today (Friday 28 August) to 10pm on Sunday 30 Augus
27/08/2009
Private developer KPL has announced plans for a £400m 'relief project' in south Antrim, which is set to create 600 building jobs during its first year of construction. Local assemblyman David Ford has welcomed the news, which will see new housing, community facilities and a by-pass road built in B
27/08/2009
Planning approval for a €750m development at the Pavillion Shopping Centre in Swords has been described as a "significant milestone". The north Dublin project is expected to create 3,000 construction jobs, developer Chartered Land said. The 'phase three' scheme, given the green light by An Bord
27/08/2009
A new Engineering Innovation Programme was launched in Cookstown recently, to help ambitious engineering businesses to accelerate their growth and innovation prospects. The programme will assist a number of small engineering businesses in the Cookstown district to develop new product and process
27/08/2009
A National Assets Management Agency (Nama) will not pay over the odds for bad debt, a government minister has insisted. Cabinet member Eamon Ryan was responding to criticism of the plans, which are designed to allow the state to buy up loans based on the potential "long-term economic value" of the
27/08/2009
Over half a million pounds has been made available for rural upgrade works in parts of the north west. The funding has been granted by the Region Rural Development Programme and will focus on the council areas of Ballymena, Ballymoney, Coleraine, Larne and Moyle. Monies were secured through the E
27/08/2009
Public consultation has opened on the proposed changes to legislation governing land registration, by the Land & Property Services, formerly Land Register Northern Ireland. The agency has inviting views from anyone with an interest in conveyancing or land law to ensure that changes relating to ele
27/08/2009
Almost one in five householders were dissatisfied with the standard of their accommodation in 2007, new figures have revealed. Data, published by the Central Statistics Office, showed 17% of Irish residents did not rate their homes highly. According to the office, the two-year-old investigation
27/08/2009
Northern Ireland bus manufacturer, Wrightbus, has won two contracts to build more than 200 buses for companies in Hong Kong and Singapore. Welcoming the news, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: "This is very encouraging news for Wrightbus, one of Northern Ireland's most successful locally-owne
26/08/2009
The developer behind an ambitious Dublin apartment scheme, on the site of a former monastery, has said it will push ahead with the proposals if full planning permission is granted. Twinlite said it intends to build the project at Mount Argus provided the planning appeals board gives it the green l
26/08/2009
Translink has confirmed that Newry's new £14.7m railway station will open next month. The facility is expected to bolster the city's already thriving cross-border trade links, prompted by the strengthened Euro. It will also provide a more efficient gateway to those travelling to Belfast and Dub
26/08/2009
Clare TD Joe Carey has called for clarification on the opening of the Western Rail Corridor, amid fears raised over its future in a government report. According to the Fine Gael representative, the McCarthy Report aims to put the project "on the long finger". Mr Carey said: "Initially we were tol
26/08/2009
A Stormont MLA has raised concerns over a potential loophole in the PPS21 planning policy. Alliance leader, and the party's environment spokesperson, David Ford said the decision to grant a planning application in Randalstown could infringe the policy on stamping out so-called countryside "bungalo
26/08/2009
Two investigations are under way following the death of a man in his 30s at a pub in Tallaght, Dublin, on Saturday night. The death of the man (31), from the Clondalkin area, appears to have been a workplace death. He was found dead in a goods lift at the Blue Bar in Belgard Square at about 6pm.
26/08/2009
Ireland's largest body representing builders has called on the government to assess the safety of all rail bridges in the Irish Republic, following a near fatal collapse in Malahide last Friday. The Construction Industry Federation's Don O'Sullivan said the cost of repairing the suspended railway
26/08/2009
New state-of-the-art football pitches have been officially opened at Colin Valley Football Club in Poleglass. Around £390,000 has been invested by the Department of Social Development into providing the sporting facilities, which include a new 3rd Generation (3G) synthetic pitch, the refurbishment
26/08/2009
Northern Ireland Environment Minister Edwin Poots has urged those with an interest in reform of the local planning system to make their voices heard. The Minister was speaking as he announced that planning reform roadshows will take place across the province in September. The events are part of t
26/08/2009
A unique project focussing attention on Belfast's controversial interface walls is being launched this Friday (28 August). The ambitious 'Draw Down the Walls' project is the culmination of three years work by contemporary art space, the Golden Thread Gallery, and the North Belfast Interface Network
26/08/2009
Antrim Borough Council has become the first local authority to issue a flooding advice booklet. The multi-agency Flooding Information Booklet is designed to ensure that households which are most likely to suffer the effects of flooding have all the necessary advice, information and telephone number
25/08/2009
Planning permission has been granted for around 160 new homes in Limavady, close to Enagh cemetery. The development, proposed by McCloskey and O'Kane Building Company Ltd, had faced over 150 planning objections. Earlier plans to develop land next to Whitehill Park were refused following strong o
25/08/2009
Cavan-based construction materials firm Kingspan has reported a 35% drop in mid-year revenues, but the group has predicted more stable market conditions for the remainder of 2009. At the end of June revenue stood at €552.5m, while operating profit dipped by 66%, from €90.1m to €30.3m over the same
25/08/2009
Belfast-based Barton Industrial Services has expanded its activities within the multi-billion pound wind energy industry, with help from Invest NI. The firm designs and supplies a range of safety devices that aid working at height by preventing and minimising falls. Barton Industrial also provid
25/08/2009
Building group CRH has reports a 82% fall in pre-tax profits for the first half of 2009. Listed as ISEQ's largest firm, before tax revenue hit just €108m, down almost €500m on last year (€606m). Earnings per share fell 84% to 12.2c. CRH said the first three months of this year had proved the mos
25/08/2009
A new sports complex has been officially opened in Gulladuff, Co Londonderry. The complex includes an indoor synthetic pitch and changing rooms as well as a fitness studio and multi purpose community room. It is a joint collaboration between Lavey Gaelic Athletic Club and Termoneeny Community Ass
25/08/2009
Limerick's largest ever civic building project is nearing completion, it has been confirmed. The £6m Kilmallock Area Office is set to be opened by the county council this week. A regional library and court facilities will be housed in the 1000 square metres scheme. Brian McCarthy Contractors L
25/08/2009
Works to repair the Belfast to Dublin rail line could take up to six months, NI Rail (NIR) has said. Engineers will be tasked to fix the Malahide viaduct after a section of the bridge collapsed into the sea last Friday. Iarnród Éireann estimated this part of the scheme alone could take three mon
25/08/2009
A public consultation has officially opened on a new masterplan for Lisburn city centre. Stormont Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said the plans made the "best use" of the city's assest whilst protecting its ongoing success and prosperity. The masterplan was compiled by a team led by
24/08/2009
Planning approval has been granted for a new €10m GAA Centre of Excellence in Mayo, with works expected to begin on-site within months. No objections were lodged against the development during the 30 day grace period, which is standard procedure after local authorities give planning approval. Con
24/08/2009
A new housing development - regenerating former Ministry of Defence homes - has been opened in Lisburn. The Pond Park scheme was unveiled by NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie who said the site had been acquired to provide social and affordable housing in an area of high housing need. The Pond P
24/08/2009
Irish-owned engineering firm Kentz has secured a $150m (€87m) telecommunications contract in western Australia. The deal was awarded by Chevron Australia for the Gorgon Project, and will see the group design, supply, install, test and commission the telecommunications scope on Barrow Island. The
24/08/2009
A Sinn Féin assemblyman has called on the Housing Minister to explain why up to 10,000 grant applications have been cancelled by the Housing Executive. West Belfast MLA Fra McCann has written to Margaret Ritchie and the Housing Executive to seek answers. Mr McCann said his party is concerned at t
24/08/2009
Fine Gael will not support NAMA legislation, describing it as "unwise". Party leader Enda Kenny confirmed his TDs will attempt to vote-down the new bill in the Dail next month. He suggested the €90bn plan by Fianna Fáil would represent a "double or quits" gamble on the property market. Speakin
24/08/2009
PVC window specialist, the Bowman Group, has officially opened its new Banbridge showroom. The company designs, manufactures and installs a range of aluminium and PVC windows, doors and curtain walling for the domestic and commercial markets. Over £120,000 has been invested in the group by Invest
24/08/2009
Laois County Council has moved to clarify the Waste Management (Prohibition of Waste Disposal by Burning) Regulations 2009. The purpose of these regulations is to state more clearly the types of waste prohibited by uncontrolled or unregulated burning. This includes the disposal of household waste
24/08/2009
A Northern Ireland building design consultants, Delap & Waller, has boosted sales in the Polish market with help from Invest NI. The design engineering practice's success follows business growth in Romania. Londonderry-based Delap & Waller was also recently presented with a prestigious Engineeri
21/08/2009
Ulster Bank figures have suggested there will be a 'jump' in the number of predicted new home builds this year. According to the bank, new housing stock in Ireland will increase from a suggested 18,500 to 22,500 - a leap of 4,000 new homes. However, "considerable supply overhang" has seen the ban
21/08/2009
The price of cement has defied market forces and increased by 8% in the past year, new figures have revealed. However, on average, building and construction materials fell in value by around 5.5% since 2008. According to the Central Statistics Office's Wholesale Price Index, reinforced metal and
21/08/2009
Construction work has commenced on a new Fermanagh health centre. The £120,000 project will prove a new doctors' surgery to the Trillick area. Dromore contractor Noel McQuaid & Sons was appointed to carry out the conversion and refurbishment works at the Enterprise Centre site. Trillick GPs Dr P
21/08/2009
Northern Ireland retailers have been urged to make their voices heard on planning issues. NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots made his comments after first commending local businesses on their approach to achieving energy and water efficiency targets. At a meeting with the Northern Ireland Indepe
21/08/2009
Companies across Northern Ireland have been urged to compete for their share of the multi-billion pound global sustainable industries. A free conference will be held in Belfast in October to promote renewable energy and environmental technologies, with around 500 companies expected to take part and
21/08/2009
As Northern Ireland bid farewell to the Tall Ships, NI Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has unveiled a series of maritime mosaics and plaques at Queen's Quay, Belfast. Along the walkway around the Odyssey, nine mosaics, each measuring around one metre in size, have been embedded in the ground. They
21/08/2009
Bath specialist Advanz will be among scores of businesses participating in this year's Self Build Extend & Renovate Show. The Dublin expo will run during next month at the Citywest Convention Centre. Advanz, a leading supplier in whirlpool and air spas, will open its exhibit on 11 September and re
21/08/2009
Dryzone Ltd has introduced the new intelligent control system Thermozyklus to the Irish market. The system helps to increase performance of existing and new heating system while reducing fuel bills. The system can be installed without the need for re-plumbing or re-wiring and immediately starts
20/08/2009
The developer behind a €1.25bn regeneration scheme has begun looking at ways to progress the stalled project, it has been revealed. Revised plans are currently being discussed for the development, located on the the site of the former Carlton cinema. The move comes after Chartered Land was told b
20/08/2009
An expansive County Down estate has had to drop its asking price by £3m over the last two years, it has been revealed. Mountpanther, in Newcastle, boasts scenic views across the coastline and Mourne Mountains, however, no buyer has been found since it went on the market for £8m in 2007. Ulster P
20/08/2009
Bray residents have used a public meeting to voice their opposition to a proposed apartment development along the local coastline. Community representatives said new builds, close to Bray Head, would detract from the seafront's scenic beauty. The Save Our Seafront Campaign group has received bac
20/08/2009
Clare County Council has reminded owners of second properties that the newly introduced Non Principal Private Residences (NPPR) fee is now due and payable by 31 October. The charge, which has been introduced under the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009, is set at an annual rate of €200 per residen
20/08/2009
One of Northern Ireland's main political parties is hosting a public meeting to discuss plans for the new A5 road in Omagh. Ulster Unionist members, including MEP Jim Nicholson and MLA Tom Elliott, have already met with locals to hear their concerns over the road's long-term impact. Among those
20/08/2009
Property developer Liam Carroll's battle to secure protection for seven companies in his Zoe development group has returned to the High Court. The court accepted the petition at a hearing last Friday. Seven companies, including Vantive Holdings and Morston Investments, are petitioning for the appo
20/08/2009
The Irish Architecture Foundation has released details on the fourth annual Open House Dublin event. Over one weekend in October, buildings selected for their architectural quality and interest open their doors to the public. This year's event will focus on innovative 'next generation' buildings.
20/08/2009
A cash boost for companies trading across the Irish border has been revealed. A wastewater and environmental partnership between a Limerick and a Newry firm is one of 16 such companies to receive up to €300,000 each from InterTradeIreland to accelerate new product, process and service developments.
20/08/2009
The latest update on the new Luas Cherrywood line has revealed most phases are nearing completion. At the Sandyford works depot new tracks will be handed over to the operator, Veolia Transport Ireland and will be brought into use shortly for storage of the new tram fleet. The reconstruction of Sa
20/08/2009
Several minor infrastructural schemes have been commenced by local authorities across Ireland in recent days. Pipelaying works commenced along the Commons Road in Navan this week. The project is taking place close to the Claremont Stadium and is estimated to last two weeks to complete the essenti
19/08/2009
Proposals for a £8.5m runway extension at Sligo Airport have been approved by county planners. The 285-metre project will run over five hectares of reclaimed land at Sligo harbour. Ten conditions were attached to the granted platform extension. Staff and management at the airport have welcomed
19/08/2009
An overdue online planning system - which has ran into costs of £7m - is symptomatic of the "deep malaise" with the Northern Ireland service, an MLA has claimed. Roy Beggs, the Ulster Unionist's Environment Spokesman said concerns over the electronic application system have been raised with the rel
19/08/2009
New figures just out have revealed the national average being paid out to landlords stands at just over €800 per month, down a sixth on the past 12 months. Overall, monthly rents have fallen by just under €200 in the past year, it emerged today. The latest report published by property website Daft
19/08/2009
Designers have been appointed for a new 800-bed facility at Magilligan Prison. Consultancies Arup and EC Harris will also administer the construction contract for the scheme, which will be built on the existing prison site. The firms were selected by the Northern Ireland Prison Service along wit
19/08/2009
Leitrim County Council has sought tenders for the construction of a rural dwelling at Drumbollog, in Drumshanbo. The council has asked tenderers to submit a confirmation of insurance; confirmation of compliance with CIF pension, mortality and sick pay scheme; tax clearance certificate; a health and
19/08/2009
Cookstown-based Keystone Group has secured its first Keylite Roof Windows sales in Romania and the Netherlands. The success comes after the company, which manufactures steel lintels and roof windows for the construction industry, brought forward research and development into new products and furthe
19/08/2009
EBS Building Society has expanded its share of the retail mortgage business The company's stake has grown by 5% to 18.5%. It also boosted its slice of the first-time buyer market during the first half of 2009 by 5%. The figures have been released by the Irish Banking Federation. EBS said it had
19/08/2009
Irish boiler manufacturers will issue a 'Boiler Passport' with every boiler manufactured within the territories of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland from next month. The boiler passport has been prepared in consultation with OFTEC, the leading trade body for the oil heating and cooking
19/08/2009
A new café has opened in Dublin's developing Docklands area. The Art of Coffee, owned by Anatoliy Kyrychenko and Ruslan Mocharskyy, is located in the Altro Vetro Building on Pearse street. It boosts beautiful canal views, with staff insisting the cafe offers the "peace and quiet" expected from a
18/08/2009
Work on one of the largest ever-civic building projects to be undertaken in Co Limerick is scheduled for completion over the coming weeks, it has been announced. Limerick County Council confirmed it will commence operating services from the newly constructed Kilmallock Area Office next Thursday (27
18/08/2009
Developer Barry Gilligan has conceded that ambitious plans to transform Belfast's iconic Crumlin Road courthouse into a luxury hotel will have to be reconsidered. The grand Grade B listed building was attacked by arsons three times over the weekend, causing more damage to the building, which was g
18/08/2009
Over €1.6m is to be invested in a new Co Mayo off-road cycle and walking route. The county council has been granted funding to construction a 17.5km track to link Newport with Mulranny. Both the Department of Transport and Department for Rural Affairs have backed the plans. Roads Minister Noel D
18/08/2009
A recession-beating jobs boost is being delayed, it has been claimed. A modern facility for the arts in Belfast - that was first agreed under an NIO Direct Rule Minister almost six years ago - has still not been started. Initially anticipated as opening next year, the long delay has led to fears f
18/08/2009
Establishing a National Assets Management Agency (NAMA) in Ireland could have serious implications for the property sector, it has been claimed. The Irish Homebuilders Association has raised concerns about the draft legislation, which will make provision for the formation of a new agency. Accord
18/08/2009
The last two years of house price freefall may be over. Normally cautious estate agents are reporting increasing levels of inquiries now being translated into sales. While this is just anecdotal evidence from several estate agents, it comes as part of a fuller, more comprehensive report from the U
18/08/2009
Any attempts by troubled developer Liam Carroll to sell the majority of his holdings in a food firm will be blocked by the Ulster Bank, according to reports. The bank will reportedly stop Mr Carroll from cashing in more than half of his €67m stake in Greencore. According to reports today, a surv
18/08/2009
A Castledawson-based building firm is aiming to shore-up sales of its specialist products in the Republic with help from Invest NI. Modern Building Solutions, formed last November, develops modular homes and leisure buildings, which are manufactured off-site in its factory. Managing Director Mich
18/08/2009
A purpose built state-of-the-art premises has been opened at Greenogue Business Park in Rathcoole, Co Dublin. BOD Vehicle Support Services (Iveco), the Republic’s sole distributor for Iveco after-sales service and support, moved into the new facility yesterday. The company was previously located
18/08/2009
Northern Ireland ratepayers may be afforded more choice in the methods which they can choose to pay their rates, the NI Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has said. Land & Property Services (LPS) is currently undertaking a review, looking at the range of payment methods which it offers ratepayers which
17/08/2009
Around 2,000 more privately owned homes could fall under the government's long-term leasing scheme, despite criticism that the solution only benefits landlords. Housing Minister Michael Finneran said plans were afoot to secure some 2,000 units of accommodation under the terms of this arrangement i
17/08/2009
Funding for an off-road cycling and walking route, linking Passage West to Rochestown, has been welcomed by Cork's county mayor. Councillor Derry Canty said the €932,000 scheme will deliver a high-quality cycling connection serving the town of Passage West with a direct cycle link to the city cent
17/08/2009
Management at a Cork DIY store will meet with union officials today, amid jobs fears. Sixteen employees at the Mitchelstown 4Home store staged a sit-in protest last week after learning the shop would close. The MANDATE trade union will hold talks with management at the superstore later to discus
17/08/2009
A specialist event on the use of Lime in construction is to be hosted in Kilkenny. The city and county councils have joined forces with Wateford County Council and the Buildling Limes Forum of Ireland to hold a workshop seminar focusing on the material. Organisers say delegates will look at the
17/08/2009
Installation of a large water main is set to commence in Dún Laoghaire soon. As part of the works, the local authority will close Kilgobbin Road from the junction with Murphystown Road to the junction with Mount Eagle Way to through traffic. The closure will facilitate the Sandyford High Level Wat
17/08/2009
Poor investment in refinery capabilities coupled with inflated crude oil prices will force more people in Ireland to seek renewable energy alternatives, it has been claimed. The Sustainable Energy Association (SEA), which represents the manufacturers, suppliers and installers of renewable energy s
17/08/2009
Work has started on a revised road layout close to the Rosemount business park in Fingal. The county council has closed a number of roads to facilitate the works, which will include the construction of a new roundabout. Ballycoolin Road from the entrance to the business park to its junction with
17/08/2009
Applicants have been invited to bid on a Galway town wall restoration scheme. The county council, along with the local heritage forum, have sought a team to oversee the West Tower of Athenry Town Wallscapital works project. The scheme is classed as essential works for the protected structure, and
14/08/2009
The Irish government is failing to tackle the social housing deficit, Fine Gael has claimed. Housing Spokesman Terence Flanagan said he is not surprised that the numbers applying for state housing has soared. "This should have come as no surprise to the Fianna Fáil government and it shows that
14/08/2009
A Cookstown company has secured a contract worth £7.5m, with a major kitchen supplier - creating 15 new jobs. BA Components Ltd manufactures high quality MDF-wrapped doors and accessories for the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sectors. The contract will see the company provide a range of products
14/08/2009
Workers at a Shannon building materials plant will vote on a restructuring plan today, which could see around 170 workers lose their jobs. Element Six's plans have already been welcomed by the Trade Minister Mary Coughlan, who claimed the move provides a better alternative than original plans to c
14/08/2009
Average processing times have fallen for all types of planning applications processed in Northern Ireland over the past year, a new report has revealed. During the last year 20,469 applications were received and 24,637 applications were decided; a higher output-to-input ratio than in 2007/08. Env
14/08/2009
A new £750,000 workspace development in Draperstown could create up to 35 jobs and help to stimulate economic growth, the Enterprise Minister has said. Arlene Foster, who officially opened the new 8,500 square foot development earlier this week, said such schemes are an example of how European fun
14/08/2009
Developer Liam Carroll will return to court today in a final bid to defend his ailing property empire. His legal representation will seek protection for firms in his Zoe Developments group. Lawyers for Mr Carroll are expected to present a plan to the High Court based on new figures for propertie
14/08/2009
The multi-million pound Belfast City Hall refurbishment is to have an entirely new facility when it re-opens - a new coffee shop. Recalling Belfast's spinning and weaving heritage, the new coffee shop will be called The Bobbin and will be open to customers when the City Hall itself re-opens at the
14/08/2009
Three Irish contractors have attained accreditation for internationally-recognised quality and environmental management standards, thanks to help from WYG Ireland. Glasgiven Contracts, Felix O'Hare & Co and Connolly & Fee reached the standards which will enable them to reduce costs and gain competi
14/08/2009
The worst of the house-building downturn may have passed, says one of the top local banks. Ulster Bank's latest Quarterly Economic Review features commentary by their economist, Richard Ramsey . He said key indicators suggest the worst of the economic gloom is behind us and that the most serious p
14/08/2009
Half a million people who are expected to descend on Belfast for this weekend's Tall Ships Maritime Festival (pictured) have had the opportunity to visit the Energy Saving Trust's 'Energy Saving Home' at Custom House Square. As the official sponsor of the 'Gateway to the Tall Ships', which includes
13/08/2009
The developers behind a massive £360m Belfast regeneration scheme - set to transform a run down part of the city centre - have insisted their plans have not been 'shelved'. Lack of progress on the Royal Exchange project was thought to be a result of the economic downturn, however, both the develop
13/08/2009
New mortgage approvals in Ireland rose slightly during the second quarter of this year, it has been revealed. First time buyers accounted for quarter of all new mortgages taken out during the period. A market profile report from IBF/PwC showed 12,686 new mortgages were taken out between April an
13/08/2009
A multi-million pound council-owned 'Olympic standard' leisure centre will open its doors in Carrickfergus next week. The Amphitheatre has been described as one of the UK's most sophisticated and efficient fitness complexes. Designed by Given Architects, the £10m multifaceted centre has integrat
13/08/2009
A new 'energy saving' paint manufacturer has claimed its product could reduce heat loss by 25%. Thermilate Warmcoat, which is now being distributed in Ireland through Igoe International Ltd, is similar to a technology used by the NASA space programme. The reflective material in the paint was des
13/08/2009
A £16.7m 'pot' to fund rural development projects has been served up to 100,000 people living in the Armagh, Craigavon and Newry & Mourne council areas. Rural dwellers can apply for a slice of the money to undertake development works that will potentially improve their businesses. Last month saw
13/08/2009
Authorities in Antrim have pledged to invest more in providing local recreational areas. The council said it will continue to construct children's play facilities, in the face of ongoing vandalism in the borough. According to Antrim council, a new playground at John Street, in Randalstown, will
13/08/2009
The impact of the recession continues to be felt by businesses across the whole of Ireland - with the building industry again suffering downturns. Three in five (58%) firms overall - on both sides of the Irish border - are reporting a drop in turnover in the second quarter of 2009. However, cons
13/08/2009
Two civil amenity sites have been reopened in Londonderry following a special meeting of city councillors. Facilities at Brandywell and Eglinton were shut down in May as part of a cost saving plan by the local authority. However, Derry councillors have now agreed to reopen both sites, with reduc
13/08/2009
Midlands Timber Frame Company has launched an innovative concept in affordable instant rooms for better modern living. The firm, whose website (
12/08/2009
A major restoration and development scheme at Antrim Castle Gardens has come a step closer. The £6m plans have been furthered with the recent temporary closure of Clotworthy Arts Centre, which together with some of the buildings surrounding the original farmyard is scheduled for major refurbishment
12/08/2009
A provisional liquidator has been appointed to two firms owned by developer Liam Carroll's Zoe group. The decision to appoint Declan Taite of FGS Partnership was made by High Court judge Mr Justice Iarfhlaith O'Neill today. Mr Taite will now oversee Vantive Holdings and Jersey-registered Morston
12/08/2009
Details have been announced for the officially unveiling of a massive £1m regeneration project in Portstewart. The Crescent development was designed to entertain children and adults alike, featuring a beautiful fountain and musical jets. Guests have been invited to experience the completed facil
12/08/2009
Proposals to build a new library and cultural centre in Dún Laoghaire have been announced by the local council. Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council said it hopes to construct the facilities at Moran Park on Queens Road in the town. The central library would comprise a children's sections, a re
12/08/2009
A row over the preservation of an Edwardian building has kicked-off in Belfast. Campaigners are attempting to block a developer's plans to demolish the structure, located in the heart of the city centre, and replace it with flats. However, planners have said they will stand over their approval o
12/08/2009
The Irish government has said it will act upon several recommendations highlighted in an independent report into the issuing of road haulage licenses. Department of Transport officials said new legislation is already afoot to strengthen the future issuance of road transport operator licences. The
12/08/2009
Toilet upgrade works worth £152,000 have got underway in Banbridge. Existing facilities at Dromore Town Hall have been closed to facilitate the works. However, two temporary toilets have been provided within the town hall’s grounds to minimise disruption to the public. A contractor will maint
12/08/2009
New guidance from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency has prohibited the disposal of plasterboard at landfills, due to its gypsum content. Local councils have clearly stated the material will no longer be accepted at their recycling centres, and that alternative arrangements should be made with
12/08/2009
Moves are afoot to make waste recycling more sustainable in Armagh. The local council has revealed its waste management team are at the forefront of the authority's 'green' planning. Staff have underwent extensive training, provided by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), to study me
11/08/2009
Property mogul Liam Carroll will today ask the Irish Supreme Court to protect his development firm from a multi million Euro repayment. His legal team will request a full appeal to put Zoe Development into examinership. Mr Carroll hopes such a move will protects the firm from ACC Bank's demands f
11/08/2009
Issues affecting the Northern Ireland housing sector topped the agenda at a meeting between Stormont Finance Minister Sammy Wilson and the Province's Federation of Housing Associations yesterday. Among matters discussed was the level of funding for social housing. Mr Wilson lauded the "valuable"
11/08/2009
Trade Minister Mary Coughlan has voiced her support for the restructuring of a Shannon-based building materials producer. Element Six has accepted proposals by local management, with the support of the Government through Shannon Development, that could save an additional 160 jobs at its manufactur
11/08/2009
A man in his 40s has died after being trapped under machinery at a Co Down production plant. Named today as Keiran McClean, the victim was rushed from the Kilkeel facility to Newry's Daisy Hill Hospital last night. Police said the incident, which took place at Engineering and Construction Product
11/08/2009
Sligo Borough Council has brought forward further proposals to develop local sporting amenities. Plans have been unveiled for a project at Ballytivnan recreation area in Ballytivnan. The proposed development works include the provision of three playground areas, to cater for a range of age groups
11/08/2009
Sixty-nine jobs have been lost at an Antrim engineering firm. The redundancies were announced today by Newtownabbey-based Schlumberger. The firm produces equipment for the oil industry at its factory in Mallusk. Declining oilfield sector activity has been blamed for the cut backs by the firm, w
11/08/2009
According to an expert who predicted the 'crash' of two years ago, NI property prices have further to fall. Jonathan Davis, a financial planner based in the City of London, told the Belfast News Letter last night that property here remained severely over-valued in relation to incomes, and that buye
11/08/2009
A Belfast engineering lecturer has been recognised for his teaching successes. Harry McGonigle, an Engineering Skills for Industry lecturer at Belfast Metropolitan College, picked up the LSDAni award for Outstanding Achievement in Teaching and Learning. The prize was awarded at the recent Learni
11/08/2009
Stormont Energy Minister Arlene Foster has called for views on the draft Bioenergy Action Plan, which sets out how Northern Ireland can capitalise on natural energy resources. Bioenergy is an organic based resource that can be grown or collected, including energy crops, wood products, farm by-produ
11/08/2009
NI's Economic prospects are still stagnating, with construction still being hardest hit. According to new figures just produced, Northern Ireland remains the only region within the UK not to experience an upturn in business activity last month. The latest Ulster Bank Northern Ireland PMI report sa
10/08/2009
A Shannon-based construction materials manufacturer has announced a restructuring plan which could save 160 jobs at the plant. Mayor of Clare Tony Mulcahy welcomed Element Six's management proposals that would see 240 of 450 jobs at the facility being retained. However, the move will involve signi
10/08/2009
A Co Down quarrying firm has defied the economic downturn by securing a massive roads contract in England. Stone from Craigantlet Quarry was used to build London's M25 motorway and the runways in some of the city's airports. Finance Minister Sammy Wilson recently met with the firm to hear how it s
10/08/2009
The new €75m Cork-Midleton train line has been officially opened by the Transport Minister Noel Dempsey. The Minister travelled with invited guests on the first passenger train on the new line from Kent Station in Cork to Midleton, opening the new stations at Carrigtwohill and Midleton itself. Wor
10/08/2009
A Dungannon firm has been fined for breaching planning legislation. Mallaghan Convience DIY Ltd, of 199 Termon Road, Pomeroy was given a £500 penality at Magherafelt Magistrates' Court for failing to comply with planning conditions. The company pleaded guilty to non compliance with a Planning Bre
10/08/2009
Sligo council has unveiled proposals for a new recreational development in the borough. The plans, which have been put out for public consultation, will transform the open space at Fairgreen, in Caltragh. Works will include the provision of play facilities; enclosed multiuse games area; uniforml
10/08/2009
East Belfast MLA Sir Reg Empey has voiced his regret at the closure of engineering firm Central Services Group. "It is always sad to learn of job losses, wherever they occur. The closure of the Central Services Group is bad news," the Ulster Unionist Party Leader said. "I understand, however, tha
10/08/2009
Construction sector activity feel once again last month, the Ulster Bank has revealed. The industry suffered another sharp decline in July, according to the bank's latest market indicator. However, the assessment has shown a deceleration in the rate of decline compared to previous months this ye
10/08/2009
A Northern Ireland food manufacturer has announced plans to expand its production facilities. The move by Kestrel Foods, based in Carn, has been backed by Invest NI and welcomed by Economy Minister Arlene Foster. In addition to new production facilities, the firm has also committed itself to ex
07/08/2009
A €100m regeneration project in the heart of Dublin will cover its costs by incorporating office space, the developer has said. A public planning hearing is currently being held into CIE's proposals for Tara Street Station, which is now set to include a landmark 60-metre high skyscraper, offering
07/08/2009
Vulnerable people are the priority in Housing Executive's plan for Lisburn, the organisation's Director of Housing and Regeneration has said. Meeting with city councillors, Colm McCaughley suggested the plan is not just about physical "bricks and mortar". He recognised that Lisburn resident have g
07/08/2009
LiD Architecture has been named winner of Dublin City Council and Point Village Limited's Parlour design competition. The Royal Institute of Architects in Ireland (RIAI) ran the single stage competition on behalf of the competition promoters, Point Village. It was open to architects, urban design
07/08/2009
Around 50 staff at a Belfast engineering firm lost their jobs today after the business folded. Last night, Central Group Services' management told workers at the Dee Street plant, in the east of the city, that the outlook was bleak. This afternoon they were informed that the company, which also
07/08/2009
A study detailing the future role of Dublin Port has been published, casting a shadow over two potential redevelopment projects. However, authorities said a €75m investment plan for 2009 was still on course. Research, conducted under the National Development Plan 2007-2013, highlighted important
07/08/2009
There was a further fall in Northern Ireland's construction sector output during the first quarter of this year, new government figures have revealed. Output dipped by 1.8% - valued at around £13m - on the previous quarter. The total value of Northern Ireland's building sector between 1 January
07/08/2009
It has emerged that new legislation will require that judges in Northern Ireland should now see repossession proceedings against homeowners as a last resort. According to details just made public, this is part of a repossession protocol which has been announced by the Lord Chief Justice, Sir Declan
07/08/2009
Armagh Council has said it is currently looking for alternative funding to develop the city's Palace Demense into a public park. The announcement follows an unsuccessful application to the Heritage Lottery Fund. Councillors have since met with representatives from the funders for feedback, and
07/08/2009
Junior Energies Minister Conor Lenihan has welcomed a new company into the Irish petroleum market. The move follows the sale of Marathon Petroleum Hibernia Limited's 18.5% interest in the Corrib Gas Field to Vermilion Energy Trust. Vermillion Energy Trust is a Canadian based international energy
06/08/2009
A leading infrastructure and utilities support services group, Siteserv PLC, has announced an 11% increase in operating profit. For the year ended 30 April 2009 profits jumped from €18.7m to €20.8m, the firm has just revealed. This follows a 71% increase in turnover to €228.6m, which the groups sa
06/08/2009
The preferred route for the proposed £113m dualling of the 14km section of the A8 between Ballyclare and Larne, in Co Antrim, has been announced. It will run between the Coleman’s Corner roundabout near Ballyclare and the B100 Ballyrickard Road junction near Larne and is primarily an on-line impro
06/08/2009
The construction industry has a crucial role to play in Ireland's economic recovery, according to the Zurich LAMA awards' organisers. Making its call for 2010 nominations, the Local Authority Members Association and Zurich said it is important to continue to highlight the achievements of individua
06/08/2009
NI Water has dismissed reports that its top executive were paid bonuses in the region of £25,000 and £40,000. The water authority said figures detailed in the Belfast Telegraph were inaccurate, insisting its executive directors' bonus payments are agreed in line with all public sector pay arrangeme
06/08/2009
A €250m investment strategy aimed at protecting jobs in labour intensive industries has been announced by the government. Trade Minister Mary Coughlan said the scheme would safeguard up to 27,400 vulnerable jobs, mostly in the productive sector of the economy. The Employment Subsidy Scheme (Temp
06/08/2009
An £790,000 external maintenance scheme involving 200 homes has commenced in the Hillhall area of Lisburn. Lisburn District Manager Jill England said: "This investment is part of our programme of work that is designed to maintain the external fabric of our properties in addition to our normal repai
06/08/2009
Much-needed 'signs of life' are emerging in the Irish commercial investment property market, according to agents Lisney. The group said movement has been recorded in the past month, following a lull in activity over the last quarter. In its mid-year bulletin, Lisney said that despite weakening v
06/08/2009
Lisburn's £2.8m state-of the-art bus centre has celebrated its first birthday. Speaking on the milestone, Translink Lisburn Buscentre Manager Jim McCauley said: "Our new bus centre has been a real success, having a positive impact on passenger numbers using our services." He said, through the ins
05/08/2009
Around €100m is to be spent on improving Galway and Cork hospital facilities by the Bon Secours Health System. According to the group, a new multi-storey car park will be constructed at its Cork site, in addition to a new 80-room wing, three new operating theatres and a specialist cancer centre.
05/08/2009
Those responsible for providing an energy efficiency certificate to people putting their homes up for sale may not all be fully qualified. It has emerged that some businesses supplying Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) may not have the correct qualifications to provide valid certificates. Acc
05/08/2009
Irish house prices dropped right across the board last month, according to a local property market report. Any signs that the bottom of the market is at hand have not yet registered in MyHat.ie’s monitoring of all asking prices, the firm said. The overall average drop in asking prices for July w
05/08/2009
A massive £7m distributor road project has been officially opened in Newtownards, Co Down, 15 months after the first sod was cut. The A20 Southern Distributor Road has linked the three most important roads in the town, improving the flow of traffic to and from Belfast, Comber and other parts of th
05/08/2009
A two man panel has been appointed to oversee the State investigation into a pay dispute between the TEEU and employers in the Electrical Contracting Industry. Trade Minister Mary Coughlan said Peter Cassells and Finbarr Flood would undertake an investigation, and to report to her as a matter of ur
05/08/2009
Sainsbury's is set to invest in excess of £50m in two new stores in Carrickfergus and Londonderry. The announcement will see the purchase of an existing Co-operative store in Carrickfergus and subject to planning permission, a second Sainsbury's store in Londonderry at Crescent Link in the Watersi
05/08/2009
A new office facility has been opened in Co Louth by a global human resources firm. Kenexa received support from IDA Ireland to launch the new Dundalk facility. Trade Minister Mary Coughlan welcomed the firm to the region. "Located in the North-East region, Dundalk is in Ireland’s busiest eco
05/08/2009
Retail giant Tesco has diverted all of its Northern Ireland waste away from landfills over the last 12 months, it has been revealed. Tesco bosses have also implemented several 'environmentally friendly' solutions into store nationwide. The move is part of a strategy to 'reduce, reuse and recycl
05/08/2009
Three newly constructed walking routes have been officially opened in north Clare. The routes are part of the Burren Walks Project, and designed to increase the appeal of the walking in the area. Aimed at farmers and private landowners, the scheme has ensured the enhancement and maintenance of
05/08/2009
NI Housing Executive residents in Crumlin, Co Antrim, have welcomed the installation of new 'alley gates' in the area. One resident said they have noticed the benefits already. According to Edel Carson, who lives on Orchard Grove: "With no-one else able to get into the alley, there has been no tro
04/08/2009
Funding totalling €932,000 is being made available for the development of a 4.8km off-road cycle and walking route linking Passage West to Rochestown in Cork. Transport Minister Noel Dempsey has also allocated €150,000 for a 1,600m off-road cycle track linking Kilmurray with the Schoolhouse Road a
04/08/2009
Major expansion works have been planned for the Ulster American Folk Park. The £2.4m scheme will be largely funded by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, which since 2006 has contributed £18.6m under its National Museums Northern Ireland capital development programme. Culture Minister Nel
04/08/2009
Major building work in four higher education institutions have moved a step further, after Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe announced the first bundle of public-private partnership (PPP) projects in the third-level are going to the market. These projects, which have been handed over to the National
04/08/2009
A £250,000 road resurfacing scheme on the A2 Tillysburn Junction, Belfast commenced yesterday, and is expected to run for four weeks. Colin Brown, Network Maintenance Manager for Roads Service Eastern Division, said the scheme will improve the safety and structural integrity of the road. "Roads S
04/08/2009
Amendments to an approved housing development, along with community facilities, in Parslickstown, Dublin, have been made public by Fingal County Council. The council, in association with the National Association of Building Co-Operatives (NABCO), originally planned to construct 231 one and two stor
04/08/2009
Funding for a new €5.6m wastewater treatment plant in Kinsale, Co Cork has been approved. The contract for the construction and operation of the new plant was awarded to the EPS - Bowen Consortium, two locally based contractors, Electrical Pump Services (EPS) of Quartertown, Mallow and Bowen Constr
04/08/2009
Northern Ireland Water has unveiled plans to invest around £1.5bn in improving infrastructure over the next eight years. The works are set to upgrade water and sewage systems across the Province. A contract advert, published today, is calling for expressions of interest from consultants and cont
04/08/2009
Work on the new M50 has forced the closure of the northbound on-ramp in the area of the N3/M50 interchange, in Fingal. Fingal County Council has approved the requested closure from contractor D&C Ltd to facilitate the upgrade works. During the period of the temporary road closure the alternative
03/08/2009
A £2m project to restore one of County Down's oldest churches has been lauded as a 'labour of love'. St Mark's Church of Ireland in Newtownards underwent substantive stone restoration works, carried out by Cunningham Stone NI Ltd. Four years after the scheme commenced, locals can once again enjo
03/08/2009
Plans for two new hotels in south Down have been progressed, after gaining support from the local council. Newry and Mourne District Council approved proposals to build a Premier Inn in Newry city, which will now be lodged with the Planning Service. The hotel chain presented its plans for the fo
03/08/2009
Developers who fail to pay back loans controlled by NAMA will be pursued, the Irish Finance Minister has said. Brian Lenihan recently published the draft legislation for the establishment of the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA). It new law gives NAMA powers to valuate land holdings and dev
03/08/2009
A suspicious fire in west Belfast has destroyed a substantial quantity of building materials. The blaze broke out at a builder's yard on the Andersonstown Road last night. Eight fire crews attended the scene, as the fire spread to a former DIY store site nearby, causing minor damage. "It was d
03/08/2009
A south Antrim assemblyman has warned planners of the dangers posed to Northern Ireland's hamlets by developers. Ulster Unionister Danny Kinahan called for senior planners to "stop and think" before they allow developers to "destroy the integrity" of small rural areas. Citing the village of Duna
03/08/2009
Communities Minister Éamon Ó Cuív has visited a number of 'RAPID' regeneration projects in Athlone. Speaking during his visit - which looked at the RAPID initiative which targets the most disadvantaged areas in the country - Minister Ó Cuív said: "I am delighted to be here today to see the progress
03/08/2009
Perforated and woven metal producer Graepel’s has launched its latest 'Project Catalogue', offering readers numerous examples of its products in use. Graepel’s core product range consists of perforated metal, woven wire and SafeDeck flooring. The new brochure also highlights 'Picture Perf', a new
03/08/2009
Marks & Spencer has become Clonmel's Showgrounds Shopping Centre's first anchor tenant, as the first phase of the development opens. The 23,000 square foot store is the first Marks & Spencer to open in the south east, bringing 100 new jobs to the area. Jonathan Smith, Marks & Spencer, Head of Ir
