Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for April 2010
30/04/2010
The Irish Republic's Health and Safety Authority (HSE) is investigating the scene of a workplace accident in Clare in which a Sligo man in his 60s has died. It's understood the man was living in Sligo Town but was originally from West Sligo. The accident happened at around 8.15am yesterday morni
30/04/2010
A company led by beleaguered Irish developer, Liam Carroll has seen its application for a multi-million euro development in Dublin rejected. The project in Clondalkin, Dublin would have seen the construction of a discount supermarket, offices and other retail space, the Irish Independent reports.
30/04/2010
A top building firm has been celebrating. Lagan Construction was the beneficiary of the People Development Award at the recent annual Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Business Awards 2010. The award recognises companies that have demonstrated a "sustained commitment to business improvement throug
30/04/2010
Another politician has added his voice to what is fast becoming an overwhelming call for a public inquiry into the controversial Lough Neagh Incinerator. Sitting MP William McCrea of the DUP last night threw his political clout behind growing demands for an inquiry, as it would be located in the So
30/04/2010
The economic climate has scuppered a bid to construct a new hotel in Londonderry. A local development company has withdrawn as the preferred developer of a £23m scheme to transform the former City Hotel site in Derry City. Big Picture Developments Limited informed the Department for Social Develop
30/04/2010
Co Antrim building contractors have been disappointed this week by news that a project to construct a new hotel in the area has been stymied. Planners have rejected an application to build what was described as a boutique hotel in Ballymoney, according to a newspaper report. Cedar Lodge Ltd made t
30/04/2010
Another property development firm has begun legal action in an effort to force customers to complete the purchase of apartments in Belfast. According to the BBC, Abey Developments is taking the action against people who have failed to complete the purchase of flats at Custom House Square, with seve
30/04/2010
A Co Carlow-based security firm has announced the creation of 50 new jobs with the opening of its new headquarters. Taoiseach Brian Cowen was on hand this morning to officially open the new Corporate Headquarters and Command Centre of Netwatch this morning. The new €5m facility represented a major
30/04/2010
House prices in Dublin and Cork dropped in March, new figures have revealed. A three-bedroom house in Cork now costs €239,000 on average, according to Property Week. This represents an overall drop of 6% in the past two months alone. A similar property in Dublin now stands at just over €346,000 -
30/04/2010
A Ballymena man has scooped the prestigious title of Northern Ireland Essential Skills Learner of the Year for 2010. Co Antrim's Alastair McCormick clinched the award at the Essential Skills Awards ceremony, which took place in Hillsborough Castle. In addition to being named overall winner, he wa
30/04/2010
A row over the delayed imposition of water charges in NI has been growing. Commenting on an issue that will have a significant impact on costs for the construction sector, the SDLP North Antrim MLA, Declan O'Loan has challenged Sinn Féin to stop claiming the credit for deferring water charges in No
29/04/2010
A row has erupted over plans to build a £200m shopping centre in Omagh, Co Tyrone. Property developers, Corbo, launched a planning application to build the shopping centre last week, the BBC reports. In order to complete the project, however, the company needs to purchase two playing fields near t
29/04/2010
Approval has been granted for redevelopment work on one of Co Antrim's best-known Victorian buildings. At a cost of £3.1 million, contractors are to carry out a multi-million pound facelift on Larne Town Hall. Local councillors were told this week that the historic building is in a state of disrep
29/04/2010
SDLP Foyle MLA, Mark Durkan has said that the likely rundown of the Northern Ireland Planning Service is not in the public interest, just as it offends the employment rights and interests of the staff affected. Speaking ahead of attending a lunchtime protest rally outside the Planning Office in Orc
29/04/2010
Irish Environment Minister, John Gormley has given approval to Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council to put Contract No. 2 of the Shanganagh/Bray Sewerage Scheme out to tender. The contract will be funded under his Department’s recently published Water Services Investment Programme 2010 – 2012, a
29/04/2010
There are doubts today over the rebuilding of an arson-hit Co Antrim primary school. The North-Eastern Education and Library Board (NEELB) is to press Northern Ireland Education Minister, Catriona Ruane to approve work on the rebuilding of a primary school, according to the BBC. Whitehouse Primary
29/04/2010
The main road between Londonderry and Letterkenny has been close following a fire at a Co Donegal garage that broke out on Wednesday night. The Gardaí have confirmed that a gas cylinder exploded at the premises in Castleford. Another three cylinders remain at the garage. An exclusion zone has bee
29/04/2010
Extra facilities are being provided for Co Clare schools. The Minister for Defence and the Co Clare TD, Tony Killeen, has said he has received confirmation from the Department of Education that it has approved additional classrooms for Scoil na Mainistreach in Quin and St Anne's Community College i
29/04/2010
A network of modern transport facilities must be available as Northern Ireland emerges from recession. That's according to NI Transport Minister, Conor Murphy who said the country's transport network must be ready to support the economy as it continues to move out of recession. Mr Murphy was speak
29/04/2010
A new Belfast City Council supported arts project is to 'uncover' the hidden rivers that flow under Belfast's modern streets. 'Resounding Rivers' will draw attention to the importance of rivers such as the Blackstaff and Farset, as well as the Lagan herself, in the development and history of our ci
29/04/2010
Northern Ireland's boom-bust property market has sparked a major shake-up in Belfast's private rented sector. This has produced a generation of 'reluctant landlords' but better-quality accommodation for a growing number of renters, according to a new research report. The report, by online lettings
28/04/2010
Construction trade apprenticeships have been in focus as the Stormont Assembly's Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness addressed local trade unionists. Speaking in the City Hotel in his home territory of Derry, Mr McGuinness told delegates: "We need to use public spending smartly, ensuring that
28/04/2010
A football pitch that is currently being redeveloped is under investigation in Co Donegal – after human remains were discovered at the site. Gardaí have confirmed that human skeletal remains, including a skull, have been found in sand that had been delivered at the training pitch at the Naomh Bríd
28/04/2010
Protest action takes place tomorrow as the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) becomes the latest body to criticise the NI Planning Service for its bid to redeploy as many as one in three of its employees. It said this will have a very significant effect on the capacity of Northern Ireland to move
28/04/2010
A border county builder has been fined for defying an order to remove waste material from his land. Andrew Boyle from Enniskillen was fined £7,500 and warned that any further court appearances on the matter would see a new fine closer to the legal maximum of £30,000 being imposed. The case related
28/04/2010
A Dublin-based architecture firm has scooped two major honours at the 25th annual Architectural Association of Ireland (AAI) awards. O'Donnell + Tuomey Architects took the Downes Medal, the main award of the event, for its work on Dublin City Council's Timberyard social housing scheme in the Libert
28/04/2010
Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) is to commence work on the installation of a new gravity sewer in the centre of Toome village on the 10th of May. The work, which will take approximately 20 weeks, is part of a multi-million pound programme of sewerage improvements being undertaken in the wider To
28/04/2010
Irish Environment Minister, John Gormley has launched a scheme to support local authorities in keeping key tourist areas clear of litter during the summer. "Unfortunately, some people continue to behave irresponsibly in discarding litter, leaving local authorities to clean up after them," said th
28/04/2010
Two West Clare community groups have received funding totalling almost €9,500 under the Scheme of Community Support for Older People. Minister at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Pat Carey has announced that the Caring for Carers West Clare Group has been allocated €5,031 w
28/04/2010
A 'joyriding' digger thief has escaped with his life after his vehicle struck an ESB pylon on the outskirts of the Taoiseach's home town. The culprit caused thousands of euro in damage to the ESB pylon which was left in a mangled condition following the collision outside Clara, Co Offaly. The di
28/04/2010
e-Tender.ie is offering all Build.ie readers a total of €15 complementary credit when they register for a free account on the site. e-Tender.ie is an online tendering service for the Irish Construction Industry. The site allows users to posts tenders in over one hundred different categories varying
27/04/2010
An area of Co Antrim that is rich in archaeological history is to be 'handled sensitively' in advance of a major road scheme. One of Europe's largest commercial archaeology companies, Headland Archaeology Ltd, has been awarded a £250,000 tender to provide archaeological investigations ahead of road
27/04/2010
It has been announced that the final phase of the £45 million new South Wing at Altnagelvin Hospital in Co Londonderry has been completed. Designed by HLM Architects in association with Hall Black Douglas, the project is the most recent element of new build clinical accommodation in a £150 million
27/04/2010
Planning permission has been granted for a 30-acre business park in Omagh. The green field site, just off the Omagh throughpass, is beside the existing Gortrush Industrial Estate. The developer of the new site is Kevin O'Kane, an Omagh-based businessman with various commercial property interests.
27/04/2010
A proposal to erect a Piccadilly Circus-style advertising screen on a Belfast building has been blocked by planners. Property company, Lebreh Ltd had sought permission to put up the 5.5m by 4m screen on the building in Bradbury place in the city centre. Lebreh Ltd is owned my Michael Herbert, owne
27/04/2010
A Co Antrim seaside community is to get a new lease of life. Consultants are now being sought so that Whitehead can develop a 'Blueprint' to identify a range of practical and sustainable initiatives which will help in enhancing village life. Following extensive consultation for the Generating Rur
27/04/2010
Around 300 local residents have staged a protest outside the offices of Moyle District Council in Ballycastle in support of an application to build a Tesco store in the town. According to a report in the Newsletter, resident Marie Morgan, 41 has started a petition to lobby for the store to come to
27/04/2010
Public works projects across Co Down have been welcomed. Creating much-needed construction sector jobs as well as greatly enhancing the quality of life in the area, the works show NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie's commitment to the regeneration of South Down. That's according to pa
27/04/2010
A major investigation is to be launched into Carlow County Council after alleged planning irregularities were uncovered during an official audit. According to reports yesterday morning, complaints have been made to Environment Minister John Gormley about the Council, which will be subjected to an o
27/04/2010
There's been an angry reaction to news of expected job losses within the Planning Service. After the news that the construction downturn has left the jobs in jeopardy was revealed at the weekend, SDLP Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Tommy Gallagher has reacted angrily to the news that cut backs may
27/04/2010
SDLP Foyle MLA Pat Ramsey has emphasised that sustained investment is needed to build a strong economy and create job opportunities. Speaking in the Assembly during the SDLP motion on the development of a jobs strategy, he said: "We need to invest in jobs now – and in sustained economic development
26/04/2010
A Co Antrim manufacturer of diesel and gas generator sets has been heavily fined over the death of a worker. The fine was £90,000 plus costs and came after F.G. Wilson (Engineering) Ltd entered a guilty plea at Antrim Crown Court to two breaches of health and safety legislation. The case was brou
26/04/2010
The developers behind a proposed multi-million pound, 389,000 sq ft extension to a Co Antrim shopping centre have submitted further information in support of their application. According to a newspaper report, the additional information is thought to include the provision of two options for the Bow
26/04/2010
Fianna Fail's Pat the Cope Gallagher has revealed that a prequalification of contractors notice for the refurbishment and extension of Scoil Naomh Chonaill, Bunbeg has been approved. It will consist of five mainstream classrooms, resource room, learning support, special classroom, library, staff r
26/04/2010
One of Ireland's largest builders' providers - and recent winner of the Octabuild Builders Merchant of the Year Award - JP Corry, has hosted a trade show and CPD seminar. It brought together manufacturers, suppliers and customers under the one roof, which showed willingness in the industry to conti
26/04/2010
A Dublin-based American firm could raise up to $92 million (€69 million) in a planned NASDAQ floatation. IronPlanet, which runs online auctions of used construction equipment, set up its European headquarters in Blanchardstown 18 months ago, according to a report in the Sunday Business Post. The c
26/04/2010
Legislation designed to help people adversely affected by high hedges near their property has been introduced in the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Bill will empower local councils to act in disputes over loss of light to a domestic property due to a neighbouring high hedge. The Bill will apply t
26/04/2010
Around 270 jobs are to be created as part of a €20m private nursing home development in Dublin's inner city. A spokesman for developers, the Creedon Group, has said construction of the 150-bed nursing home will go ahead this summer, pending full planning permission. The facility, located in the Ne
26/04/2010
A Co Londonderry man has been fined £5,000 at Magherafelt Magistrates' Court for non-compliance with a Planning Service Enforcement Notice. Mr John Paul McNally of Glenviggan Road, Draperstown, failed to remove a concrete base from a site at Moyard Road, Draperstown. Planning Service brought the c
26/04/2010
Irish Environment Minister, John Gormley has officially opened the Ennis Water Treatment Works at Drumcliff, Ennis, Co Clare. The €9.8 Million Ennis Water Treatment Works, which incorporates the largest membrane filtration system in a public water scheme in Ireland, provides drinking water to appro
26/04/2010
Clare T.D. and Minister for Defence, Tony Killeen has welcomed the Department of the Environment's allocation of €15,000 to Clare County Council. It is part of a newly launched scheme to support local authorities in keeping key tourist areas clear of litter during the summer. Minister Killeen said
23/04/2010
A former Baptist church in Armagh and the site of a former petrol forecourt are to make way for two new construction projects. New jobs - around 30 - will be created with the opening in the summer of a new KFC drive-thru restaurant, which will be located at Lonsdale Road - on the site of the former
23/04/2010
The building contractor responsible for a major new hospital facility in Co Armagh has been celebrating. Farrans Healthcare and the architect for the huge project, Milligan Reside Larkin, in Newry - in association with P O'Hagan Architects - have this week marked the end of their work with the offi
23/04/2010
A construction firmed owned by a former hurling star is facing a winding up petition as a result of a dispute over an alleged debt. A High Court petition has been filed against Congil Constriction, which is owned by former Galway player, Padraic Connolly, the Irish Independent reports. The petitio
23/04/2010
Rural minor roads are so bad they have been compared to Third World dirt tracks. A Sligo councillor is concerned that local country roads will become the equivalent of 'dirt tracks' if funding isn't made available. Work needs to be commissioned by road building contractors urgently according to Fi
23/04/2010
The BBC has claimed that around 300 members of staff at the Northern Ireland Civil Service are to be redeployed within the Department of Environment (DOE). Two hundred and sixty nine of these posts have been indentified within the Planning Service, the report stated today. According to a spokesper
23/04/2010
Plans to build a 30-acre business park in Omagh, Co Tyrone has been given the green light, according to a newspaper report. Outline planning permission has been granted to the green field site, which is located just beside the existing Gortrush Industrial Estate in the town, the Tyrone Constitution
23/04/2010
Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) has begun improvement works on the sewer infrastructure in Templepatrick, Co Antrim. The project is expected to last for around 20 weeks, and will affect the Paradise Walk and Antrim Road areas of the town. NI Water, and its contractor Dawson WAM, have moved to re
23/04/2010
SDLP South Belfast candidate Alasdair McDonnell said jobs and the economy should be the focus, not just of the upcoming general election, but also of Northern Ireland's entire devolved political system. He said: "We have done peace, now we must do prosperity. We can argue about the best way to buil
23/04/2010
A €1.65m footbridge in Ballina, Co Mayo has finally been given a name – six months after it was officially opened. Ballina Town Council has opted to call the structure the Salmon Weir bridge following a vote, reports the Mayo Advertiser. Despite the bridge opening last October, the council has bee
23/04/2010
Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) has announced that a planned £4.3 million programme of improvements to wastewater services will take place in the South Lisburn area over the next three years. The first phase of this scheme will involve initial improvements at the existing New Holland Wastewater T
22/04/2010
SDLP West Tyrone Westminster Candidate Joe Byrne has welcomed the £7million office development in the Great Northern Business Park, Omagh. Speaking at the launch of the project, Mr Byrne said: "This is a very positive development and a sign that some private sector investment companies like Herron
22/04/2010
Construction Excellence in Northern Ireland (CEni) is to host its seventh workshop in the (overview) series in June. The workshop will again be delivered by CEni's industry partners, Quigg Golden, and will be held at the University of Ulster (Jordanstown) on the 23rd and 24th of June. The Overview
22/04/2010
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has welcomed the recent decision of the Industrial Tribunals to fully affirm, without modification, two Prohibition Notices served by HSENI on 24 July 2009 to stop the spread of asbestos contamination. The notices were served on Bridgelin
22/04/2010
A significant reduction in fatal accidents at work shouldn't mean that firms drop their guard. NI Health and Safety Minister Arlene Foster has warned against complacency in the wake of good news of the lowest recorded number of deaths at work in decades. Seven people lost their lives in work-rela
22/04/2010
80 jobs are to be created by the developers of a high-speed, low-energy communications network. According to RTE, the exemplar communications test bed is being developed by Irish firm Intune Networks and supported by a €5m investment by the Government. The aim of the project is to ensure high-qual
22/04/2010
Dublin Bus is to reduce staff as part of wide-ranging plans to make its service more efficient, RTE has reported. The company said 150 jobs would be shed through voluntary redundancy and natural turnover. It also announced it is to change the majority of its routes over the coming months, followin
22/04/2010
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Emer Costello has officially opened two new community office facilities at Killarney Court in Buckingham Street Upper in the city. Dublin City Council has now refurbished the formerly empty offices into two new facilities that will be managed by Dublin City Centre C
22/04/2010
An upgrade of Ireland's electricity network will create 300 new jobs, it has been announced. Energy firm Eirgrid will create 30 jobs directly while 200 people will be employed building power lines and sub-stations, reports RTE. A further 50 jobs will be created in the professional service sector.
22/04/2010
The President of Engineers Ireland, Dr Chris Horn, has said that Irish society is reeling from past arrogant incompetence but now must focus on ingenuity and more effective regulation to rebuild towards a just and prosperous future. He was speaking on the first day of the Engineers Ireland Conferenc
22/04/2010
Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Social and Family Affairs, Aengus Ó Snodaigh has responded critically to the Governments plans to introduce water charges to households in the future. Mr Ó Snodaigh stressed the urgent need for Environment Minister, John Gormley to abandon his plans to impose the charges
21/04/2010
Lower levels of repair and maintenance work has been blamed for an NI-wide decline in the official measurement of construction output. The Central Survey Unit of the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) has published the latest edition of the NI Construction Bulletin. The prima
21/04/2010
An integrated design and engineering consultancy for the built and natural environments is enjoying a major accolade this week. Scott Wilson, with offices in Belfast and Londonderry, has been awarded the prestigious Queen's Award for International Trade 2010. This achievement recognises the compa
21/04/2010
Buisness research company, ICC Information has revealed that the value of Court Judgments (CJ’s) against companies in Northern Ireland for the recovery of unpaid debt has fallen for the second quarter in a row. While the figures indicate that the recession may well be on its way out, the year on ye
21/04/2010
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Education Senator Pearse Doherty, has welcomed the announcement of the 2010 summer works programme, but has said it is "no substitute for full investment into new school buildings". Irish Tánaiste, Mary Coughlan has announced a €122 million investment that will see around
21/04/2010
The Electricity Supply Board (ESB) will be allowed to set its own electricity prices only when it sheds another 17% of its customer base and removes its brand from its retail business, it has been reported. According to RTÉ, the stipulations are contained in a report to be published later today fro
21/04/2010
Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) is to make payments to around 850 customers who were cut off during the recent cold snap. About 140,000 people across Northern Ireland were affected by power cuts following severe snowfalls and ice storms. The utility regulator agreed an exemption on its normal r
21/04/2010
A new multi-million pound trauma care facility at Craigavon Area Hospital has been opened. NI Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has officially welcomed the £9.4million Trauma and Orthopaedics Unit which is the final phase of a £15million investment project, designed to improve waiting times for fr
21/04/2010
The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Natural Resources, Martin Ferris, has called for changes to be made to the tax structure governing oil and gas companies operating in Ireland. The Kerry North TD was speaking during a debate on energy and pointed out that Ireland will benefit little from any oil and g
21/04/2010
Irish Defence Minister, Tony Killeen has said the allocation of €3.26 million to Clare County Council under the 2010 Rural Water Programme will complement the work already undertaken to further improve the quality of drinking water in communities across Clare. Minister Killeen stated that the grant
21/04/2010
Socomec UPS and Socomec Switching and Protection will be exhibiting at the HC exhibition at Birmingham’s ICC, Hall 3 - Stand 82, 27-29 April 2010. See the highly efficient, TÜV SÜD approved 96% efficient and reduced footprint, Masterys Green Power 120kVA, along with its smaller version, the Mastery
20/04/2010
Some 1,480 primary and post primary schools across the country will receive small and medium scale building works this summer as part of a €122 million investment announced today by the Tánaiste. Ms Mary Coughlan said yesterday that the "Summer Works Scheme" would cover projects in school buildings
20/04/2010
Irish Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Mary Coughlan has announced a €122 million investment that will see 1,480 primary and post primary schools across the country benefiting from small and medium scale building works this summer. The Summer Works Scheme covers projects in school b
20/04/2010
Traders in a busy Co Down town are backing an expansion project by Tesco - provided it keeps to its original proposal - by remaining at its central location. Commenting on a plan to instead build a new store outside the town, Banbridge Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Ireland Independent Retail
20/04/2010
Irish Housing Minister, Michael Finneran has published his Department's 2010 Rural Water Programme. As part of the scheme, the Minister has allocated almost €85 million worth of capital block grant allocations to County Councils. A further €8m is also being provided for remedial works approved by
20/04/2010
There's been a major step-forward in an international project to connect the North West to the USA. SDLP Foyle MLA, Mark Durkan has warmly greeted the news that the Department for Social Development (DSD) has now officially handed over the Project Kelvin Telehouse to Hibernia Atlantic who will now
20/04/2010
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is calling on the local community in the area to have their say about an upgrade of the historic Metals Walkway, a shared 3km pedestrian/cycle route connecting Dún Laoghaire to Dalkey. The Council was awarded funding earlier this year following a competition he
20/04/2010
Turning a busy road junction into a roundabout will come at a cost - almost a cool £1m. The Roads Service has said that a 'life-saving' plan to install one at the A26 Moira and Ballinderry roads junction would be an expensive undertaking. However, residents want to proceed as they said the junctio
20/04/2010
A new state-of-the-art care home has been officially opened in east Belfast. Building work has concluded with the Wesley Housing Association 38-bed Residential /EMI Care Home now including 20 dementia beds and 18 residential beds for the frail and elderly, dementia care, physical disability and sen
20/04/2010
NI is to be able to join its continental neighbours by extending its restaurants onto the streets. Sinn Féin has successfully called on the NI Assembly to bring forward legislation to enable the development of a 'Café Culture' in Northern Ireland's towns and cities. Such legislation would allow t
20/04/2010
NI Transport Minister, Conor Murphy has said that local transport providers are working hard to deliver rail, bus and ferry services to aid passengers affected by the volcanic ash situation. The Minister said: "I have been receiving updates from the key agencies responding to the challenges posed b
19/04/2010
The newly refurbished Crescent Arts Centre in Belfast has been re-opened, following an 18-month restoration project. The £7.2m scheme involved a refurbishment and restoration, which has preserved the exterior façade of the Grade II listed building. The refurbished centre includes an extension tha
19/04/2010
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) has stepped up talks with two bidders for the construction of the Metro North rail link ahead of a planning decision on the project, according to a newspaper report. The report in yesterday's Sunday Business Post said sources expect a Bord Pleanála decision on a
19/04/2010
SDLP North Antrim Westminster candidate Declan O'Loan and Councillor Madeline Black have welcomed the £300,000 refurbishment at Ballycastle Health Centre. Declan O'Loan said: "I have visited the Health Centre and seen the current facilities which are cramped and totally inadequate for the two GP pr
19/04/2010
The future of housing in Northern Ireland will be discussed at a conference organised by students from the University of Ulster this week. Final year Housing Management students from the Jordanstown campus will be hosting a half-day conference at Helm House, Lisburn Road, Belfast, tomorrow from 9.3
19/04/2010
A new €22 million Dart station is to be officially opened today at Clongriffin, a newly-developed town in the north-east of Dublin. The station will be officially opened this afternoon by the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey. Designed by Iarnród Éireann Architects, and funded by the developers
19/04/2010
Irish Environment Minister, John Gormley has announced plans to spend up to €1.8 billion to improve the country’s water infrastructure. The programme will focus on the rehabilitation of the existing network to avoid the loss of treated water in ageing or damaged networks. The scheme will see arou
19/04/2010
The Irish Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Batt O'Keeffe was on hand recently to open a new extension in Reenascreena National School, Rosscarbery, Co Cork. Minister O’Keeffe described the extension as "an important local educational project". "Until last year, Reenascreena National
19/04/2010
Irish Transport Minister, Noel Dempsey has opened a new walking and cycling Greenway in Westport Town. The 2.5km Greenway links Westport Quay to Altamount Street and creates new cycling and walking links between Westport’s urban areas, residential areas and schools. The new greenway aims to enco
19/04/2010
RTÉ has been given the green light to redevelop its Donnybrook site in Dublin. The next stage of the planning process now entails all parties having an opportunity over the next four weeks to lodge appeals with An Bord Pleanála. RTÉ has welcomed the decision made by Dublin City Council, saying the
19/04/2010
Irish Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Barry Andrews has officially opened the new extension to the childcare facilities at University College Dublin. With the new purpose built facility, Oakmount Crèche can offer services for up to 110 children. Designed by ABA Architects, the extended
16/04/2010
One of Ireland’s leading construction companies has announced a €57m joint venture with a US property firm to develop a student accommodation scheme in north London. The Cork-based O'Flynn Group has signed a deal with Westbrook Partners to build the 435-bed residence on a site that overlooks Wemble
16/04/2010
Wexford-based Isabel Barros Architects has announced its participation in this year's 'Simon Open Door' scheme. The company will offer an hour-long consultation to anyone interested in building, renovating or extending their home, in return for a donation of €50 to charity. All of the money raise
16/04/2010
German discount store, Aldi has had a proposal to build a new store in Donegal Town rejected by An Bord Pleanala The project was refused planning permission to renovate a retail warehouse in October last year, due to the concerns over the location of the proposed store. Despite the company launch
16/04/2010
Water experts from international consultancy, WYG will talk about sustainable groundwater development and flooding at the annual International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) conference in Co Offaly next week. The annual two-day IAH conference will take place on 20 - 21 April, and will address
16/04/2010
The Northern Ireland Executive has agreed in principle to provide a loan of £50million to create a hardship fund which will provide financial relief to Presbyterian Mutual Society (PMS) savers facing financial difficulties. The fund, which will be targeted mainly at small savers, is part of a serie
16/04/2010
A Co Down man has been fined a total of £150 plus £19 court costs at Downpatrick Magistrates’ court for illegally disposing of scrap vehicles. John Killen (36) of Creeghduff Road, Seaforde pleaded guilty to the charge brought under The Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997. Off
16/04/2010
A Belfast bar has been ordered to remove awnings and canopies on the exterior of the building, it has been reported. Café Vaudeville in Arthur Street in the city centre had appealed against a prior decision not to permit the awnings, the wooden fittings that house them, and seven window canopies, a
16/04/2010
SDLP East Belfast Westminster Candidate Mary Muldoon has said the public inquiry into the planned runway extension at George Best Belfast City Airport must reveal the real views of the residents of East Belfast. She said: "Local residents are concerned that any extension would increase noise pollut
16/04/2010
Sinn Féin MLA, Jennifer McCann, has welcomed that news the major fuel suppliers in Northern Ireland are to be brought in front of the Enterprise, Trade and Investment Committee. The move, which was requested by Ms McCann, aims to ascertain what actions the suppliers are taking to help reduce the pr
16/04/2010
A Dublin-based specialised cleaning firm has announced two new additions to its range of services. Advanced Manufacturing Technology Ltd. (AMTL) has added Dry Steam Cleaning and Pressure Washing to its existing portfolio. The Rathcoole company offers a full list of cleaning processes, including Dr
15/04/2010
NI is well placed to take advantage of a rising housebuilding market - although levels of growth are forecast to be slower than other UK regions. Across the UK, the market will increase overall by 154,000 homes in 2010, according to a new report from MTW Research. The rate of growth this year wil
15/04/2010
Irish Minister of State for Planning, Ciarán Cuffe has confirmed that developers and landowners may be compelled to demolish partly completed developments, RTE has reported. The Ministers comments follow the National Asset Management Agency's Chief Executive, Brendan McDonagh admitting that sending
15/04/2010
NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots was in the heart of the Mourne Mountains today to launch a scheme to protect one of Northern Ireland's most scenic landscapes. Mr Poots visited the Silent Valley Reservoir to launch the Management Plan for the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Th
15/04/2010
A Co Fermanagh man has been fined £5,000 plus costs at Enniskillen Magistrates' Court for failing to comply with a Planning Service Enforcement Notice. Mr Adrian McCaffrey of Oakvale, Derrylin, failed to cease the use of land and premises adjacent to Mountview Inn, Main Street, Derrylin, as a store
15/04/2010
SDLP Newry and Armagh MLA Dominic Bradley said the people of South Armagh are entitled to look at Conor Murphy’s record as NI Roads Minister when making their decision on Westminster representation. "It’s impossible to count the bends on the Newry-Crossmaglen road (B30) because none of it is really
15/04/2010
There is to be half as many staff again at an Irish-based insurance company. Insurance group Generali PanEurope said it will create up to 30 jobs in Navan, and plans to boost the group's overall Irish workforce by up to 50% in the coming months. The group, which currently employs 108 people, is bu
15/04/2010
Graham FM has added Ballymun Civic Centre to their already significant FM portfolio within the Greater Dublin Area. The company – part of the wider Graham construction group – has said it will draw upon local facilities and maintenance teams to provide Ballymun Civic Centre with an "extensive range
15/04/2010
Local property developers have been urged to prepare for impending demands for an asset-related business plan. The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and business advisory firm, Grant Thornton have said that local developers and contractors should start preparing their business plans in the ex
15/04/2010
A Co Armagh company has recently celebrated achieving the prestigious Investors in People (IiP) accreditation. Portadown-based Mel Davison Construction was one of 33 local businesses praised by Alan Shannon, the Permanent Secretary of the Department for Employment and Learning, for preparing for th
15/04/2010
A Co Londonderry man was today fined £500, court costs of £70 and legal costs of £19, at Londonderry Magistrates' Court for displaying an unauthorised advertisement. Mr Declan Harley of Abercorn Road, Londonderry was charged with the unauthorised advertisement of his business, Citi Memorials at 33b
14/04/2010
An Antrim-based MDF moulding firm has won its first mainland European export business with support from Invest Northern Ireland. SAM Mouldings, a UK leader in MDF architectural mouldings for the construction and DIY industries, was helped to pinpoint the market opening through its participation on
14/04/2010
Over £20,000 worth of tools have been stolen at Strabane District Council's depot. The equipment was taken during a two-hour raid at the Co Tyrone facility between 7pm and 9pm on Friday 9 April. Councillor Kieran McGuire said: "We estimate that over £20,000 worth of equipment has been stolen. Land
14/04/2010
A company has been fined a total of £160 plus £85 court costs at Belfast Magistrates' Court for the unauthorised display of advertisements. Herbel Restaurants Limited was found guilty of the unauthorised display of two shroud banners at the Belfast branch of Kentucky Fried Chicken, 11-15 Donegall P
14/04/2010
Although much reduced in number since the New Year, there has now been a second bank cash machine 'ram raid'. This time the luckless thieves stole an empty cash machine from a shop in Greencastle, Co Tyrone with a contractor's digger being driven through the front window of a shop and the ATM taken
14/04/2010
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emer Costello, will today unveil a plaque in honour of Herbert Simms, in Chancery Park, Dublin. Londoner Simms was appointed Housing Architect in Dublin Corporation (now Dublin City Council) in 1932. His main task was to address the chronic housing shortage in the city at the
14/04/2010
A rugby club in Co Antrim has reportedly had plans to sell its existing ground and move new premises refused by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC). Carrickfergus Rugby Club was keen to move from its Woodlawn ground to a new development that would include four rugby pitches, floodlighting, a hock
14/04/2010
A Co Tyrone man has been fined £15,000 plus £101 court and legal costs at Dungannon Magistrates’ Court for failing to comply with a Planning Service Enforcement Notice. Mr Fergal O'Neill of Killycanavan Road, Ardboe, was required to remove unauthorised buildings, namely terrace dwellings in the ope
14/04/2010
NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots has outlined proposals for new legislation dealing with waste management and contaminated land. The Waste and Contaminated Land (Amendment) Bill had its Second Stage debate in the Assembly on Tuesday. Speaking before the debate the Minister said: "This Bill will
14/04/2010
A Navan-based international insurance firm has announced plans to move to new premises in the town. Generali PanEurope is to buy a new site from IDA Ireland and will commission a new building in the IDA Navan Business Park. The company, part of Italy’s Generali Group, also announced plans to creat
14/04/2010
An interface area in Belfast has been given an extensive facelift. The Ardoyne roundabout has been completely transformed, with the removal of unsightly concrete blocks, or 'dragon’s teeth'. In their place there is now a landscaped island with decorative granite units, shrubbery and plants. Addi
13/04/2010
Irish companies have secured over €200 million worth of contracts for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Batt O’Keeffe announced that the firms won contracts across a range of sectors including construction, electronics, software, archit
13/04/2010
There's building work on the way in coastal Co Donegal. A planning application been granted for the building of a new multi-million euro coast guard center in Killybegs. The Office of Public Works (OPW) applied to Donegal County Council for permission to build a new three-storey coast gaurd stati
13/04/2010
The latest figures from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RCIS) have indicated a slight improvement in the housing market in Northern Ireland. RICS found that transaction levels rose marginally in March. However, the body stressed that house prices in Northern Ireland continue to fall be
13/04/2010
A Co Armagh man has been fined £10,000 at Craigavon Magistrates' Court for continuing to fail to comply with a Planning Service Enforcement Notice. Mr Raymond Pedlow of Annesborough Road, Lurgan, was also ordered to pay court costs of £74 and solicitors fees of £75. The original enforcement notice
13/04/2010
There has been a call for a Sinn Féin councillor to apologise following comments he made about a housing development in Londonderry. SDLP Foyle MLA, Mary Bradley was commenting on a claim by Tony Hassan who recently alleged that the Department of Social Development delayed the development at Skeoge
13/04/2010
A contract with a Co Tipperary firm to construct a new Fire Training Centre in Ennis has been agreed by Clare County Council. Thomas Nolan & Sons will provide a new training centre with the facilities necessary to cater for the training requirements of Clare County Fire and Rescue personnel. Constr
13/04/2010
Consultancy firm, WYG, has announced that Jim Mearns has joined the senior management team as a new Director and Head of Highways for the company's Irish business. Mr Mearns Jim has over 30 years experience in project management, road design, construction & maintenance. "I look forward to taking u
13/04/2010
A Co Tyrone man has been fined £1,000 and ordered to pay court costs of £26 and legal costs of £75 at Dungannon Magistrates' Court for non-compliance with a Planning Service Enforcement Notice. Mr Jim O'Hara of Annaghmore Road, Coalisland, was charged with the unauthorised use of land at Annaghmore
13/04/2010
Cash from the NI Executive is to be used as part of a huge £225m rescue package for the collapsed Presbyterian Mutual Society. A deal is thought to be in an advanced stage of preparation with the Presbyterian Church set to hold a meeting of its General Assembly to discuss its part in the bailout of
13/04/2010
An 'entertainment village' is set to consolidate Dundonald's growing reputation as a regional hub for family friendly entertainment. A major infrastructure development, Eastpoint, alongside the local Ice Bowl, ten pin bowling facilities and Pirates' Adventure Golf Centre, has already seen the wide
12/04/2010
Contraction within the construction industry has continued for the 34th month in a row, according to the latest Ulster Bank Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). However, the decline was at least at a slower pace than in recent times – with the index showing the smallest fall since October 2007. The P
12/04/2010
The best method of identifying and formally 'listing' buildings of historic or architectural importance is being sought. With just 8,500 listed buildings in Northern Ireland at present - representing less than 2% of Northern Ireland's total building stock - the way ahead for formal listings of prop
12/04/2010
South Dublin Sinn Féin representative, Shaun Tracey has slammed Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council for sitting on 102 empty apartments while thousands "desperately await to be housed". Mr Tracey called on the council to release the apartments to social housing and said it is "ridiculous" that th
12/04/2010
Irish Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan is to launch the 2010 EnviroCom 'Call for Entries' in Dublin later today. Targeting local businesses, not-for-profit organisations, government agencies and community groups, the annual EnviroCom Awards recognise the best e
12/04/2010
Co-Armagh based firm, Envirogreen Recycling is urging Irish companies to re-evaluate their waste costs in an effort to reduce their outgoings and remain competitive. The company recently undertook a survey with over a 100 small, medium and large enterprises throughout Ireland, finding that nearly 3
12/04/2010
New 'high-end' jobs are to be created by a Letterkenny-based company by the end of this year. Some 15 positions are to be created by idevelop.ie - a website which is aimed at the self-build, home improvement and gardening market - which was launched last week. Marketing Consultant to idevelop.ie J
12/04/2010
A Co Antrim company has won and completed its first export business from a bus company in Turkey. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland, Ballymena-based firm Aerosubs has supplied a consignment of emergency doors to Temsa in Adana, a major bus builder and a leading industrial group in Turkey. Aero
12/04/2010
Mr Machinery, the online auction portal, has announced the appointment of Richard Perry as UK Sales Manager. Richard has a wealth of experience in sales, working previously in the industry selling cars, trucks and trailers. According to the company, his main role will be to "establish good workin
09/04/2010
An oil and gas exploration firm has identified a possible location for natural gas storage off the coast of Dublin. Just last week, the company, Providence Resources, revealed that it has been carrying out a study to investigate sites for offshore natural gas salt cavern development, similar to tho
09/04/2010
A Co Fermanagh quarry products business is a top health and safety performer. That's according to Independent Concrete Control Management (ICCM) Ltd, a group that runs annual safety awards for the member companies. R J Millen & Sons, which came runner-up in 2008, has been named the 2009 top perfor
09/04/2010
Irish Housing Minister, Michael Finneran has announced the allocation of €852.5m towards housing programmes for local authorities. However, that represents a substantial drop from the €1.078bn allocated in 2009. The reduction comes as more than 60,000 people find themselves on local authority hou
09/04/2010
Although construction remains sluggish at best, Ireland's annual industrial production rose 13.7% in February, when compared to the same month in 2009, the Central Statistics Office said today. However, turnover was 3.6% lower compared with February 2009. While there was a 32.3% decline in the pro
09/04/2010
Contractors will be on site at the end of this month as work to open-up four continuous traffic lanes to one of Enniskillen's most congested routes starts. DRD Roads Service are calling in contractors to realign the Wellington Road on the Through-pass by creating two continuous lanes westbound and
09/04/2010
A Co Londonderry-based high-tech business is looking for good ideas - literally. Kilrea's Hutchinson Engineering, the parent company of consultancy and conceptual design subsidiary, H360 - which focuses on 3D Design - wants new and existing clients to come up with an initial idea that H360 experts
09/04/2010
The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has approved the connection of four new towns to the natural gas network. The towns to be connected as part of the new Towns Analysis Phase 3 are Kells in Co. Meath, Tipperary Town in Co. Tipperary and Kinsale and Innishannon in Co. Cork. These four towns
09/04/2010
DUP leader, Peter Robinson has hit back at Michael O'Leary after the Ryanair boss criticised the decision to hold a public inquiry into a planned runway extension at George Best Belfast City Airport. Last month, NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots decided to put the controversial matter to public
09/04/2010
Lisburn City Council will oppose plans to build an 'Energy from Waste' gasification plant, according to a newspaper report. Councillor, William Leathem said there should also be public inquiry to be held before any decision was made, reports the Ulster Star. Mr Leathem said he had grave concerns o
09/04/2010
A new sculpture depicting Irish folk hero, Cuchulainn has been installed in Armagh City. The piece, entitled For the Love of Emer, was created by artist Martin Heron, and is positioned at the foot of Scotch Street, one of the city’s busiest ‘gateways’. The 30-foot stainless steel structure depicts
08/04/2010
Revised plans for a housing and retail project in Armagh City have been submitted to planners - with numerous new jobs on the way if the bid is successful. DoE Planning Service has now re-advertised the comprehensive redevelopment of Ogle Street in Armagh. The project - which will include shops an
08/04/2010
Work on the regeneration of St Michael's Estate in Inchicore, Dublin is to start next September, according to a newspaper report. The move comes more than two years since the public private partnership (PPP) scheme for the development collapsed, the Irish Times reports. The dilapidated high-rise f
08/04/2010
Local politicians in Dún Laoghaire, south Dublin, are to attempt to overturn a zoning decision taken last month at the direction of the Minister for the Environment. The rezoning decision involves a battle over retail development in the area. The Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan 20
08/04/2010
Jobs will be created if the Stormont Executive actively targets 'green energy' sourcing. The SDLP Fermanagh and South Tyrone Westminster election candidate Fearghal McKinney has said renewable energy has the potential to provide jobs where they are most needed - but only if the NI Executive puts th
08/04/2010
Dublin energy agency, Codema is to launch a call to create a European network of sustainable renovation suppliers under the GREENOV project. The GREENOV project is an initiative that aims to develop the economic sector of sustainable renovation by "stimulating innovation within small and medium e
08/04/2010
Technical problems over a chapel's gothic architectural features failed to halt Easter celebrations being broadcast on the Irish channel, RTE. The specialist lighting business based in Belfast, Production Services Ireland (PSI) supplied rigging services and lighting equipment for the Easter Sunday
08/04/2010
Over £100,000 is to be spent on the construction of a new outdoor performance area at Loughshore Park in Jordanstown, Co Antrim. According to a newspaper report, local councillors have approved a tender submitted by M. Flynn & Sons Ltd for the work to be carried out at a cost of £107,548. The proj
08/04/2010
A substantial contract to upgrade an existing water treatment plant is about to begin in Co Londonderry. Costing a cool £800,000, construction on the Foreglen site at Ballymonie Wastewater Treatment Plant will be compliant with all environmental regulations and when finished. It will also improve
08/04/2010
Depletion of oil and gas reserves, concerns about energy security and the environmental threat of greenhouse gases means Ireland must consider nuclear power. That's according to Dr Bertrand Barré, Scientific Advisor to the French energy company, Areva Group. Dr Barré was speaking at the announce
08/04/2010
A new welfare centre to offer support to Romanians living in Northern Ireland is due to be opened in Belfast, the BBC reports. Around 100 Romanians were forced to flee their homes in the city last year, following a spate of racist attacks. "That is why we opened this centre," said Nikola Nikolae,
07/04/2010
Irish Minister of Defence Tony Killeen has confirmed that Clare County Council has advertised a tender for the provision of consulting engineering led services associated with the design and build contract for the new Doolin harbour development. The North Clare TD also confirmed that the planning
07/04/2010
More than 1,800 new social housing units have been completed in NI during a single year - representing a major target being achieved. The NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said she has surpassed her social housing target, providing a total of 1,838 new homes. This is the highest numb
07/04/2010
The developer of homes in Belfast's Titanic Quarter is to sue customers that have failed to complete the purchase of apartments, according to the BBC. Titanic Quarter Ltd, owned by Dublin-based firm Harcourt Developments, has issued writs against 12 customers, the report states. The cases are due
07/04/2010
House prices in Ireland have fallen by 3.4% so far this year, according to property website Daft.ie. The decline represents the smallest quarterly fall in almost two years. The report indicates that the national average asking price last month was €234,000, a total of €120,000 (33%) below the 2007
07/04/2010
Developers are being protected at the expense of the ordinary citizen. Thats according to Sinn Féin Vice President Mary Lou McDonald who has accused the Fianna Fáil/Green Party Government of sheltering the wrong doers, bankers and developers while pointing the finger of blame for the economic crisi
07/04/2010
There has been a warm welcome for an innovative method of looking after Government buildings. The NI Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson, said the launch of two major Property Management Framework Agreements for the Government Estate is good news. The Framework Agreements, awarded to H&J Martin Ltd, co
07/04/2010
The first steps have been taken towards a deal that would see Ireland's two major organisations representing the property and construction sectors, it has been reported. Both the councils of the Society of Chartered Surveyors (SCS) and the Irish Auctioneers and Valuers Institute have approved motio
07/04/2010
Thieves have stolen industrial drills and other equipment during a break-in in Co Antrim, the BBC has reported. The intruders forced their way into the industrial plant at Moira Road in Glenavy on Monday night and made off with equipment worth between £5,000 and £10,000. Police have appealed for a
07/04/2010
US Private hospital operator Sheehan Medical has announced that their latest facility, the Cork Medical Centre, will get Ireland's most high-tech IT system after they awarded the €740,000 contract to Meditech, the provider of health care software based in Boston, Massachusetts. The new €90m hospita
07/04/2010
SDLP North Antrim MLA Declan O'Loan has praised Ballymena Town Centre Partnership (BID) for its work in tidying up and painting a number of derelict buildings in Ballymena town centre. He said: "This is very good work which was led by Town Centre Manager Sean Trainor. There are several buildings a
01/04/2010
NI Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie has welcomed an investment of £21m for housing associations in Northern Ireland. The private sector investment, secured for the first time from the Housing Finance Corporation, will be split between Helm Housing Association, receiving £10million; Nor
01/04/2010
The Dublin Airport Authority (DDA) has announced that 400 new retails jobs are to be created with the opening of Terminal Two at Dublin Airport later this year. T2, which will open in November, will contain almost 40 separate outlets, with a range of new shops, restaurants, and bars located in the
01/04/2010
NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has opened a new nurture classroom at St Luke’s primary school in Twinbrook, West Belfast. DSD has provided Neighbourhood Renewal funding of over £19,000 for the fit out of the new classroom which includes a kitchen, soft seating and play areas to cre
01/04/2010
Irish manufacturing expanded in March for the first time in more than two years as the global economic recovery boosted export demand, the Irish Independent has reported. An index of manufacturing activity increased to 53 from 48.6 in February, NCB Stockbrokers said in a monthly report today. Any
01/04/2010
NI Environment Minister Edwin Poots has rejected proposals to build a new supermarket in Lisburn, Co Antrim. The application, lodged in 2009 by Wildrose (Magheralave) Ltd, was widely expected to fail. Supermarket giant Asda was touted as the likely tenant for the development near the Lisburn North
01/04/2010
Waterford manufacturing firm Kel-Tech Engineering has been honoured with a Supplier Quality Excellence Award by Caterpillar. Waterford native Ray Breen founded the company in 1988 and today it is regarded as one of Ireland’s leading manufacturing companies. Chief Executive of Waterford Chamber of
01/04/2010
Employers are being encouraged to promote positive mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, following the launch of new guidance released by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI). With reports suggesting the cost of working days lost to mental ill health in Northern Ire
01/04/2010
The National Consumer Agency is using April Fool's Day to remind consumers to remain vigilant about scams and not to get caught out by con artists, as it publishes new research on scamming in the Republic. The Agency's latest report, carried out during March 2010 by Behaviour & Attitudes, says tha
01/04/2010
Leading brick manufacturer, Wienerberger, is to open it’s first dedicated sales and distribution centre in Ireland this month. In line with the company’s other European centres the new Co Antrim-based facility will also incorporate a state-of-the-art showroom. Commenting on the news, Wienerberger
01/04/2010
Manager John Tierney has revealed polar positions over the controversial incinerator at Poolbeg, RTE reports. The two men have exchanged 11 letters on the subject over the past two years. The letters were released to RTE News under the EU's Access to Information on the Environment. In his first l
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