Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for February 2020
28/02/2020
Mayo's famous mountain and pilgrimage site, Croagh Patrick is set to undergo a programme of sustainability works thanks to a new investment. Funding of €480,000 will support sustainable access works and habitat restoration at the site. Announcing the investment, Minister for Rural and Community
28/02/2020
Belfast business chiefs are hoping to start a conversation about what steps need to be taken to realise the full potential of the city. President of Belfast Chamber Rajesh Rana outlined the organisation's belief that Belfast does not have the powers and controls that a city of its size and importan
28/02/2020
A project to build Dublin's tallest office building has celebrated a major construction milestone. Main contractor Bennett marked the topping out of the Exo Building with the completion of the active alignment of the structural steel to the north side. This brings the €70 million structure to its
28/02/2020
Northern Ireland-based contractor GRAHAM has landed a new Building Maintenance contract with a top UK water provider. Midlands business Severn Trent (ST) has appointed the firm to deliver work over a three-year reactive contract. Under the contract, GRAHAM will be responsible for ST's estate acr
28/02/2020
Fianna Fáil has come under criticism for performing a "double u-turn" on the national issue of rent freezes. Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin has hit out at the party, after they told the Irish Independent that they were in favour of a two year rent freeze before stating that they still believ
28/02/2020
Ireland's national electricity company ESB has embarked into the sustainable finance markets for the second time with a new €1.4 billion five-year sustainability linked loan. Becoming the first Irish utility to do, ESB has struck a deal for the Syndicated Sustainability linked loan (SLL) provided
28/02/2020
A community element has been recognised in the first Renewable Electricity Support Scheme auction which encourages locals to play an active part in the nation's climate change fight. This element was revealed in the recent publication of the Terms and Conditions for the auction. Labour TD Seán S
28/02/2020
Irish engineering firm Mercury has launched a search for new Civil, Structural & Architectural (CSA) employees across its offices, including two roles in Dublin. The national company is on the lookout for a CSA Quality Assurance Manager and CSA Estimator in Dublin. Mercury specialises in the deli
28/02/2020
Work has been announced in the O'Rahilly's Villas and Rae Street area of County Kerry to tackle high levels of leakage on the water network. Beginning on Monday 02 March, Irish Water will work with Kerry County Council to replace over 660 meters of problematic water mains as part of the utility's
28/02/2020
Work is progressing in the County Down village of Saintfield to improve a footway. Approximately £30,000 is being invested to resurface a footway in Todds Hill and Windmill Road. Work began on Monday 24 February and will run until Friday 13 March. For the first phase it will be necessary to clo
27/02/2020
Public realm plans for an Island of Geese site in Tralee are set to enter the first stage of development. Kerry County Council has unveiled plans for the project, which will see the site of the former Denny Bacon Factory site redeveloped into an office block with retail space. Proposed public real
27/02/2020
Plans for a new community hub in the County Down seaside town of Newcastle have been boosted with a new investment. Local centre Greenhill YMCA has secured a grant of £500,000 from the Mourne, Gullion & Lecale Rural Development Partnership (MGL) to bring the project forward. Greenhill YMCA hosts,
27/02/2020
Leading Irish engineering firm Mercury has announced a major company appointment. The Europe-wide contractor has strengthened its Technical Support Services (TSS) team with the addition of a Facilities Manager. Ian McLoughlin joins the firm after 15 years in Australia where he was General Manage
27/02/2020
Landowners in the River Derg catchment area, Counties Tyrone and Donegal, have been urged to apply for funding under the pilot Land Incentive Scheme. This €1.2 million cross-border scheme offers funding that will improve water quality protection and improve the sustainability of the farm business.
27/02/2020
A popular park in Ballyclare, Co Antrim, is set to undergo a series of improvement works. Sixmilewater Park will be the subject of a £500,000 improvement scheme, which will see the creation of a new entrance scheme and associated works. Work will involve the demolition and removal of the existin
27/02/2020
Limerick's N20 O'Rourke's Cross Road Improvement Scheme is set to take a major step forward. Limerick City and County Council has submitted the Compulsory Purchase Order to An Bord Pleanála to acquire the land for the project. This scheme is being proposed to deliver a junction that enables safe
27/02/2020
An illegal dump outside L'Derry described as an "environmental wreck" has sparked a call for greater environmental protection across Northern Ireland. The infrastructure committee met yesterday, 26 February, where the issue of the Mobuoy dump was brought up. Shedding more light on the issue, Sin
27/02/2020
A new pathway is set to be developed in the New Mossley area of Newtownabbey. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council granted permission for the development as part of a commitment to enhance the range of walking routes across the region. The Council and the Department for Agriculture, Environme
27/02/2020
Three councils in the Dublin area have joined forces with Approved Housing Bodies to address housing in the region. The inaugural meeting of a Regional Forum was held, which saw Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Fingal and South Dublin County Councils discuss continued partnership opportunities with the hou
27/02/2020
A busy road in the Finaghy area of north Belfast is set to close for resurfacing work. Approximately £300,000 is being invested to improve Finaghy Road North from the M1 overbridge to Lisburn Road. Work will begin on Monday 02 March and run until the end of April. The project will be delivered
26/02/2020
A £1 million conservation project has reached completion at Carrickfergus Castle, allowing the Great Tower to officially reopen to the public. Work began in 2019 to construct a new roof on the 800-year-old landmark, with Dungiven-based JPM Contracts Ltd on hand to deliver the project. Irish Oak fo
26/02/2020
Electric Ireland is set to reduce its gas prices by 11.5%, the largest gas reduction in the history of the company. These changes, which come into place from 01 April 2020, will also see electricity unit prices fall by 2.5%. This will benefit Electric Ireland's average residential electricity cu
26/02/2020
The A2 route which runs from Bangor to Belfast is set to undergo significant lighting upgrades. A £150,000 street lighting scheme has been announced for the road, which will see new LED technology installed to improve the key route. This will involve the installation of 36 new street lighting co
26/02/2020
Northern Ireland-based construction firm GRAHAM has secured a contract to deliver a new junction and link road in Harlow. The firm will work to deliver the M11 Junction 7A, connecting the motorway with Gilden Way, east of Harlow, and creating a new east-west link through the town, helping boost th
26/02/2020
Metso's new range of mobile crushing and screening products is set to be shipped across Ireland through distributor McHale Plant Sales. The new Nordtrack range is designed to meet the requirements of small and mid-sized companies and general contractors looking for the right combination of product
26/02/2020
Some 50 new roles have been created in construction as work gets underway on a £2.7 million development in Lisburn. The 18 new homes at Thaxton Village are a project of Hagan Homes and include three-bedroom detached, semi-detached homes and townhouses. Starting prices will be at around £120,000 wi
26/02/2020
An additional set of works have been agreed for Mullingar town centre to support the recently completed street enhancement project. This Co Westmeath scheme brought a Smart Traffic Lights system to the area to ensure pedestrian safety and traffic flow is maximised. Following discussions at the mo
26/02/2020
Alliance is set to bring a proposal to the Assembly for a public inquiry into the dumping of illegal waste in Mobuoy, L'Derry. The party's Infrastructure spokesperson Andrew Muir visited the area to discuss a range of local issues, including the dumping of more than one million tonnes of waste on
26/02/2020
Thirty-four projects across the country are set to be recognised at this year's Irish Planning Institute Awards tomorrow night. The event on Thursday evening, 27 February, will honour the diverse range of projects and plans currently in progress in local authorities around the country in complex a
26/02/2020
Work is set to take place to improve the water supply in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo. Irish Water is on hand to decommission and replace approximately 400 metres of old and damaged water pipes with modern, high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes along Mountain Road. This forms part of Irish Water's Na
25/02/2020
Irish electricity company ESB has been praised for delivering work at the V&A Dundee design museum in Scotland. The firm's Smart Energy Services division successfully developed a low carbon energy solution for the museum that saves on operational costs. ESB's Smart Energy Services specialise in p
25/02/2020
A proposal has been set out to deliver a new walkway along the River Ara in Tipperary town. Located in the townlands of Collegeland and Knockanrawley, this project will see 1km of the Ara River reimagined with enhancement and stabilisation works. It will include the development of a gravelled wa
25/02/2020
Northern Ireland-based construction firm Henry Brothers has delivered a major £30 million refurbishment project at a major UK university. The company's Midlands team successfully refurbished and upgraded two key buildings at Loughborough University, marking one of the largest refurbishment project
25/02/2020
Minister for Infrastructure Nichola Mallon is under pressure to "think big" about connectivity plans in and to Belfast City Centre. Representing over 600 local companies, Belfast Chamber is urging Minister Mallon to work with Belfast City Council and the city's business community to embark on an am
25/02/2020
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has extended the appointment of Board Member Chris Welch. Chris, who has served as a senior manager in six social housing providers, secured the position on a temporary basis last year until a permanent candidate was found. His stint with NIHE has now been
25/02/2020
Rural areas of Longford and Westmeath have been hit with severe flooding, prompting a call for financial assistance. Local Fianna Fáil representative Robert Troy has urged the government to confirm what monetary support is available to people whose homes and land have been affected by flooding. De
25/02/2020
The redevelopment of Casement Park in Belfast still remains a commitment for Sinn Féin, the party has confirmed. West Belfast MP Paul Maskey has reiterated their devotion to the project and labelled some of the public commentary around the redevelopment as inaccurate. "The money for Casement Par
25/02/2020
A seven-week delay in processing HAP applications in South Dublin County Council has been confirmed. Sinn Féin representative hit out at the delay, claiming it makes accessing rental accommodation even more difficult for applicants and is putting families at risk of homelessness. "This delay is un
25/02/2020
A programme of roadworks has been announced in the Co Armagh village of Keady. This £183,000 scheme will see Castleblaney Road improved over a 960m distance from its junction with the Crossnenagh Road to the border with Co Monaghan. Work will begin on Monday 02 March and run until Friday 27 March
25/02/2020
An Irish Water team has successfully repaired a burst pipe in Raheen, Co Galway. The incident happened over the weekend, affecting supply in Athenry, Clarenbridge and Kilcolgan. The utility worked with Galway County Council to deliver the repair, with work complete on Saturday evening, 22 Februa
24/02/2020
The Irish Planning Institute's (IPI) former president Joe Corr MIPI is set to run for election on Seanad Éireann's Industrial and Commercial Panel. Joe, who has previously held the office of Mayor for Fingal, was put forward by IPI as an independent candidate. Current president of IPI, Dr Conor N
24/02/2020
A host of new facilities have been brought to Brantry Wood in Eglish, Co Tyrone, thanks to a £140,000 investment. This project saw recreational space created in the woodlands in an attempt to tackle isolation and improve health and well-being in rural areas. It also aims to promote participation i
24/02/2020
Ballina town centre in Co Mayo is set to undergo a series of improvements worth an estimated €10 million. This redevelopment project will see the existing Tesco store undergo a complete makeover and expansion, while a new car park will be created in back lands acquired by Mayo County Council with
24/02/2020
Forty-four projects across the country have won a share of €8.4 million funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. The successful projects were announced by the Department of Rural and Community Development last week following applications made in 2019. This Scheme provides fund
24/02/2020
Irish forestry business Coillte has been announced as the latest partner for National Tree Week 2020 ahead of the event next month. Led by the Tree Council of Ireland, National Tree Week 2020 will focus on promoting tree health and the important role trees play in protecting our planet by taking o
24/02/2020
Funding of €9.9 million has been pledged to deliver 15 cycle improvement schemes across Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. The Council was awarded funding to design and construct the schemes from the National Transport Authority under the Sustainable Transport Measures Grant programme. The schemes are at v
24/02/2020
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has announced a 2.75 per cent increase in rents to address the standard of housing. The new price, which will come into effect in April, was welcomed by CIH Northern Ireland. It represents an average weekly increase of £1.79 per household. Justin Cartwright,
24/02/2020
Roadworks have commenced on two routes in Bangor, Co Down. Approximately £300,000 is being invested in the schemes, which will see Victoria Drive and Victoria Road improved. Work will extend over the full length of Victoria Drive from its junctions with Victoria Road and on Victoria Road from its
21/02/2020
The 2020 Build Better Roadshows are set to kick off next month with an event in Sligo. Led by Saint-Gobain along with brands Gyproc, Isover and Weber, the roadshows aim to target upskilling in construction with a trade event for a wide range of building fabric solutions. This year's events look to
21/02/2020
A Coleraine firm which specialises in surface finishing, fabrication and restoration has announced plans for a £9.5 million expansion. Maine Surface Finishing is creating 155 jobs at its premises in Wattstown Business Park in Coleraine. The company is seeking highly skilled engineers, fabricators,
21/02/2020
Ireland's leading indoor leisure and entertainment company Airtastic is set to open a new facility in Newtownabbey. Planning permission has been granted to transform the vacant Toys R Us premises at Abbeycentre into a new entertainment complex. Airtastic is investing £3 million to develop a dest
21/02/2020
Work is continuing to progress on upgrades at the old Leixlip Water Treatment Plant ahead of planned completion later this year. Irish Water is leading the project, which looks to safeguard the water supply for homes and businesses in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). Works to upgrade the filters a
21/02/2020
A urgent call for action has been issued for the development of the medical school at Ulster University's Magee campus. The proposed school will look to address the growing number of undergraduates at the campus. Chair of the BMA, Dr Tom Black has advised the Stormont Health Committee that the m
21/02/2020
Roadworks have been announced near the Co L'Derry village of Claudy. Work will take place on the Baranailt Road, starting on Monday 24 February and running until Saturday 07 March. The Department for Infrastructure is investing £226,000 in the project, which will begin near the junction with the
20/02/2020
A new water pipeline is making significant progress in Cork with over half of the project now complete. Irish Water is leading the €28 million scheme to upgrade the water supply for over 7,000 people in and around the West Cork town of Skibbereen, as well as to the Drimoleague, Castledonovan, Schu
20/02/2020
The impact of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge in Strabane is set to assessed via public consultation. A major capital investment project from Derry City and Strabane District Council, the bridge provides a crucial missing link for pedestrians and cyclists between the residential areas and schoo
20/02/2020
Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy has come under pressure to introduce new planning permission which urges developers to "use it or lose it". The Minister first said he would bring proposals for use it or lose it planning permission to cabinet in October last year, after admitting the government's St
20/02/2020
Antrim bus manufacturer Wrightbus has struck a £29 million deal with English firm Rotala. The NI company will supply a total of 163 buses, including 128 double decker, to the bus operator. Local councillor Gregg McKeen has welcomed the deal as Wrightbus looks to rebuild itself after entering int
20/02/2020
Planning permission has been granted for a seven storey, 98 bed development in Rathmines, Dublin. Dublin City Council's decision to reject permission was overturned by An Bord Pleanála. This decision has been met with some criticism, with Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin TD claiming it is "b
20/02/2020
A resurfacing scheme is set to take place in Enniskillen from next week. Approximately £120,000 is being invested to improve a section of the Tempo Road in the Largy area. It will see a 725 metre stretch of road improved from its junction with Tattygare Road. Work will begin on Monday 24 February
19/02/2020
Ireland's largest wastewater pumping station at Ringsend, Dublin, is set to be significantly upgraded. Work is underway at the site on an €8 million project to enhance the capabilities of the facility. Ringsend wastewater treatment plant treats approximately 40% of the country's wastewater load a
19/02/2020
Two new playgrounds have been opened in Balbriggan, Dublin. Mayor of Fingal Cllr Eoghan O'Brien was on hand last week to officially open the Bandstand playground near the Martello Tower and Quay Street playground. He was joined by Fingal County Council's Chief Executive AnnMarie Farrelly, childre
19/02/2020
Legislation which allows roads to be closed for a special event in Northern Ireland is set to be reviewed. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon MLA confirmed she will review the operation of this legislation. This decision has been met with support, with SDLP representative Eugene Reid welcomin
19/02/2020
A call has been issued for the height of railings on motorway bridges across Northern Ireland to be raised. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has been urged to implement the changes in an effort to improve safety and help reduce the number of suicides. This comes after it was revealed the M
19/02/2020
A filling station in Doagh, Co Antrim, is to be redeveloped to create a new facility. Planning permission has been granted for a revised scheme at the village's existing Texaco filling station site. This will see a modern petrol forecourt, convenience retail and hot food facility delivered to serv
19/02/2020
A series of improvements are set to take place on a street in west Belfast. The Department for Infrastructure is investing £108,000 to deliver footway resurfacing works on Highfield Drive. Work will begin on Monday 24 February and run until Friday 10 April. Daily road closures will be in opera
18/02/2020
Northern Ireland's latest public leisure facility in Craigavon is on track to open in late summer 2020. The £35 million South Lake Leisure Centre is set to open its doors in August following a 32-month build programme. One of the region's largest public leisure complexes, the new centre will feat
18/02/2020
Broken street lights and potholes are set to be repaired on Northern Ireland routes thanks to an additional £3 million investment. This new allocation will also enable the Department for Infrastructure to continue winter gritting services until the end of March. Welcoming the investment, Infrastr
18/02/2020
A proposal for almost 600 homes has been put forward in Co Dublin. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council has submitted an application for approval to An Bord Pleanála to develop residential space on circa 9.69 hectares of land. Located in the townlands of Shanganagh, Cork Little and Shankill, Co
18/02/2020
Amphitheatre Leisure Centre in Carrickfergus has been awarded funding for accessibility improvements. Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has successfully secured investment from the Department for Communities (DfC) for a new pool hoist installation at the complex. The current hoist for users wi
18/02/2020
A key road upgrade scheme in the Fingal area of Dublin has been boosted with a major appointment. SIAC Construction Ltd has struck a deal to deliver the Hole in the Wall Road / Mayne Road Junction Upgrade scheme. The project involves the realignment of the junctions of the Mayne Road with the Hol
18/02/2020
Work is set to begin in the Co L'Derry village of Draperstown to upgrade the water main infrastructure. Contractor Farrans will commence work in the vicinity of St Patrick's Street on 09 March. These upgraded watermains will improve the quality, security and flexibility of the water supply, as we
17/02/2020
Northern Ireland's latest film and TV studio complex in Belfast is set to enter a second phase of development. The Belfast Harbour Film Studio opened three years ago at Giant's Park with two 32,000 square feet studios and 125,000 square feet of overall production space. Since its opening, the spac
17/02/2020
Plans for a £26 million innovation centre in Ballymena are beginning to take shape. The project, which has been put forward as part of the regeneration of the former St Patrick's Barracks site, is moving forward with local councillors developing a comprehensive Outline Business Case (OBC). At th
17/02/2020
The £1.4 million Dromore Town Centre Public Realm has taken a major step forward with a key appointment. Contractor FP McCann has struck a deal to deliver the project, which covers the Market Square, Church Street and Bridge Street areas of the town. This scheme will include resurfacing work, in
17/02/2020
Irish building materials group Kingspan has partnered with global environmental impact non-profit CDP. The firm has been awarded a position on CDP's Supplier Engagement Leaderboard in recognition of its actions and strategies to reduce emissions and manage climate risks in its supply chain in the
17/02/2020
This year's STEPS Engineers Week is set to begin later this month with a string of Family Fairs. The 14th annual celebration is a campaign held to promote engineering as a career and the importance of the profession to Ireland. A series of Family Fairs will take place in Cork, Dublin, Galway and
17/02/2020
A two-month programme of roadworks has begun in Ballymena. Approximately £500,000 is being invested to resurface a section of the A36 Moorfields from 160m east of Tully Road for 1.2km towards Ballymena. Work is underway and expected to be completed by Friday 10 April. A weekday one-way closure
17/02/2020
Waterford City and County Council has pledged its commitment to sustainability by adopting a single use plastics policy. The policy was agreed last week, 13 February, which will see single use plastics removed from all Council buildings, hired venues, catering and all events organised by the Counc
17/02/2020
Members of the public have been invited to an event in Cappoquin, Co Waterford, this week to discuss regeneration proposals. The public meeting in the Community Centre in Cappoquin will give people the opportunity to talk about potential associated projects and opportunities. It will take place o
17/02/2020
The Department of Education has come under pressure to progress expansion plans at Gaelscoil na Daróige in L'Derry. Education Minister Peter Weir confirmed his Department is currently seeking valuations on a prospective site for the expansion of the school. Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan has hit out
17/02/2020
Residents on the Whitegate Regional Public Water Supply in Co Cork have been hit with a Boil Water Notice. Irish Water and Cork County Council issued the notice after consultation with the Health Service Executive. It has been put in place to protect public health due to an issue with the filtra
14/02/2020
The co-founders and directors behind Dublin-based firm Grafton Architects have been recognised with a royal award. Co-founders Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara, along with fellow directors Ger Carthy and Philippe O'Sullivan, were presented with the 2020 Royal Gold Medal for architecture. Pres
14/02/2020
An event has been held in Co Kildare to mark the official launch of STEPS Engineers Week 2020. Taking place from 29 February until 06 March, STEPS Engineers Week is a campaign held annually to promote engineering as a career and the importance of the profession to Ireland. Partners Engineers Irela
14/02/2020
A new extension has been officially opened at Sligo Cemetery. Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Tom MacSharry was on hand to open the development on Wednesday 12 February. He was joined at the ceremony by Canon Patrick Bamber, Fr Pat Lombard, Dr Jamshaid Sulehri, Members of Sligo Co
14/02/2020
Banbridge Leisure Centre has improved access for people with disabilities and restricted mobility with a new facility. Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Mealla Campbell visited the site along with representatives of Disability Sport NI and Sport NI to open a ne
14/02/2020
The €88 million Blanchardstown Regional Drainage Scheme has reached a key project milestone. Tunnelling has begun on the construction of 3.2km of new wastewater network within the Tolka Valley Park. The primary works are being contained within an area of Waterville Park where the construction of
14/02/2020
The planned expansion of Ulster University's Magee campus is expected to take a step forward next month. Health Minister Robin Swann will confirm how many of the 900 new nursing and midwifery places will be allocated to Magee. These undergraduates places were outlined as one of the commitments in
14/02/2020
A Co Down start-up has developed new technology to reduce environmental pollution levels by controlling water and wastewater levels in drainage networks. Storm Harvester's green technology has been installed in major developments across Northern Ireland and Great Britain, including Hillsborough Cas
14/02/2020
A company in Comber has been hit with a £2,000 fine for two breaches of discharge consent to sewers. Food manufacturer Mash Direct pleaded guilty to the charges yesterday, 13 February, after what NI Water described as an "extremely long and frustrating case". Explaining more about the charges, An
14/02/2020
Environment Minister Edwin Poots has come under pressure to publicly commit to delivering a Climate Change Act. This call comes after a bid for funding was made by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for funding to begin work on developing a Climate Change Act. Sinn Féin
14/02/2020
Work is set to begin on a new storm sewer in Ballymena next week. NI Water is leading the project, which will see the new structure built on the Larne Road Link, and within the Church Street 3 Car Park on Castle Street. It will involve laying approximately 100 metres of storm sewer and associated
13/02/2020
Work has begun in Ennis, Co Clare, to build a new state-of-the-art library. Serving as a cultural hub for the town and region, the new Clare County Library will cover 2,300m2 beside the existing Glór Theatre. It is designed by Keith Williams Architects and will include a new County Library and sma
13/02/2020
Plans to revitalise Belfast city centre are one step closer to fruition after a recent committee meeting. The Council's City Growth and Regeneration Committee met last night, 12 February, progressing plans which will reimagine the city centre. Local Alliance Councillor Nuala McAllister has welco
13/02/2020
NI Water has helped enhance radio facilities at three of its sites for Northwest charity, Foyle Search and Rescue. The utility has led upgrades at Sheriffs Mountain, Tullywhisker and Temain Hill, allowing the charity to respond quicker to emergency call-outs. Explaining more about the new facili
13/02/2020
A Northern Ireland recycling firm has been struck with a £28,000 fine for breaching health and safety regulations. Ace Recycling (NI) Limited and its sole director were found guilty of failing to ensure a suitable and sufficient assessment was completed to identify the presence of asbestos at a for
13/02/2020
A programme of Climate Action workshops is set to take place across south Dublin. South Dublin County Council is planning five three-hour workshops for individuals and community groups. These will help create a better understanding of the need for climate action at a local level and build local cl
13/02/2020
Three additional water supplies in Cork have been removed from an 'at risk' list thanks to a series of improvements. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has given the thumbs up to supplies in Drimoleague, Durrus and Whiddy Island. They have now been removed from the Remedial Action List (RAL
13/02/2020
Positive meetings have been held with the leaders of the Green Party, Sinn Féin, Fianna Fáil, and Fine Gael following last weekend's election. Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan has spoke of the leaders' willingness to engage with the Greens, who have continued to lead serious and committed action to t
13/02/2020
A key road in west Belfast is set to close for improvements next week. This £225,000 scheme will see Cupar Way resurfaced between Lanark Way and North Howard Street. Work will begin on Monday 17 February and run until Friday 28 February. Daily weekday road closures will be implemented between 8
13/02/2020
A water treatment plant on Inis Meain has been brought back into production following a recent power outage. ESB Networks was on hand to restore the facility after it was disrupted due to storm conditions. The plant has restarted and treated water leaving the plant is fully compliant and safe fo
13/02/2020
A programme of resurfacing work has been announced in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim. These works will take place on the Summerhill Road, from the junction with Main Street to the mini roundabout. They will take place from Monday 17 February until Friday 21. To reduce traffic disruption, the work
12/02/2020
Residents of west Belfast are preparing for the grand opening of a new £25 million leisure centre later this year. Work is taking shape at Andersonstown Leisure Centre as it approaches its April opening date, when it will become the latest centre to reopen as part of Belfast City Council's £105 mil
12/02/2020
A historic estate in County Fermanagh is set to be transformed into a new leading tourism and leisure destination. The proposal for Necarne Estate in Irvinestown has been approved, which will see the popular grounds include a holiday retreat with a range of accommodation; outdoor activities; enhan
12/02/2020
Guides and Brownies across Ireland are being urged to take part in this year's Engineers Week Challenge. Taking place from 29 February - 06 March, Engineers Week promotes engineering and the importance of the profession to children in Ireland and is coordinated by Engineers Ireland's STEPS program
12/02/2020
Planning decisions reached in Belfast have doubled over the last year. The latest figures from Belfast City Council's Planning Committee show a huge burst in productivity, with the average time taken to process applications more than halved from 78 to 37 weeks. Chair of Belfast City Council's Pla
12/02/2020
All of the water supplies in County Westmeath have been declared safe following the latest update from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The final water supply on the Remedial Action List (RAL), Mullingar Regional Water Supply, has been removed. Upgrades were carried out at the Portloman
12/02/2020
Northern Ireland-based construction firm Farrans is beginning to shape a key project in Woking. The contractor is leading the construction of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the Basingstoke Canal in Chobham Road. The foundations have just been laid for the bridge that is being built alon
12/02/2020
A sewer rehabilitation programme across Northern Ireland is moving forward with further works in Counties Armagh and Down. NI Water has appointed contractor Geda Construction to begin works in Portadown, Lurgan and Magheralin. This brings the overall investment within this area to £850,000 over the
12/02/2020
A Larne business has opened its new, expanded premises, bringing a host of job opportunities to the area. Global firm Stealth Translations Ltd, who also has sales offices in Italy, Germany and the USA, is a provider of high quality technical translation services. The company has worked with Mid a
12/02/2020
NI Water has issued some vital advice about the dangers of playing near treatment works, reservoirs and construction sites. A team behind the £2 million flood scheme in Ballymena visited the site of a local school to remind pupils of how to stay safe. This major project will bring many benefits
12/02/2020
A road in the Co L'Derry town of Limavady is set to undergo a series of improvement works. Work will begin on the Ballyquin Road tomorrow, Thursday 13 February, and run until Sunday 23 February. The Department for Infrastructure is investing £206,000 to resurface a 1.44km section of the road from
11/02/2020
Plans to create a circular walking route at County Antrim's popular visitor attraction The Gobbins have made significant progress. The Gobbins Phase II project will see the upper and lower cliff paths joined to create the route. The cliff and coastal path will also be extended to take in more geol
11/02/2020
One of Northern Ireland's leading businesswomen, Dame Rotha Johnston has been named the new non-executive Chair of the Board of NIE Networks. Dame Johnston has held a non-executive director position with the NI electric utility since 2011, in parallel to a number of other strategic positions, incl
11/02/2020
Howth's historic Old Courthouse in County Dublin is set to be given a fresh new look thanks to a major refurbishment project. Work is underway on the Harbour Road site and will continue for six months. Tolmac Construction Ltd has signed on to deliver the works on behalf of Fingal County Council'
11/02/2020
A £255,000 programme of public realm works has got underway in L'Derry's Waterside. This scheme will see the Bonds Hill area transformed with upgraded footways, carriageway and lighting. Two heritage lighting columns will be refurbished as part of the upgrade to the lighting. A new cycle lane and
11/02/2020
Engineers Ireland has called on its 25,000 members to get involved in this year's annual Engineers Week. Taking place from Saturday 29 February until Friday 06 March, STEPS Engineers Week is a campaign held annually to promote engineering as a career and the importance of the profession to Ireland
11/02/2020
Members of the public are being invited to shape renewed plans for a public realm scheme in Banbridge, Co Down. An event will be held later this month in the Old Town Hall in Banbridge, where the new concept design proposals for Banbridge Town Centre will be unveiled. It will take place on Thursda
11/02/2020
A £38 million investment in the Co Antrim town of Carrickfergus is progressing well for development. Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is leading the plan to regenerate, reposition and rebrand the town under the Belfast Region City Deal. This key project will place Carrickfergus as an authentic
11/02/2020
InfraStrata has set out plans to build seven gas storage caverns at Islandmagee, Co Antrim. This proposed project has been met with opposition by Sinn Féin after the party submitted their response to the Larne Lough gas storage project public consultation. Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald has slam
11/02/2020
A power outage in Inis Meain has resulted in some restrictions at the local water treatment plant. Courtesy of current storm conditions, the plant is unable to pump water into supply. ESB Networks is working to restore power as quickly as possible, but the current estimate for restoration is 4pm
11/02/2020
Roadworks have been announced in the Co Down town of Castlewellan. Work will begin on the Leitrim Road on Monday 17 February and run until Friday 13 March. The Department for Infrastructure is investing £255,000 in the scheme, which will run a distance of 1,300 metres from the road's junction wi
10/02/2020
Former President Mary Robinson has called on the public sector to show leadership in climate action. She made the call at the recent SEAI public sector conference which 800 representatives from public bodies and government departments attended at the Helix in DCU to advance their energy efficiency
10/02/2020
The Silent Valley Reservoir in Newry has been closed until further notice, according to Northern Ireland Water. The reservoir has been closed temporarily due the adverse weather conditions. The Met Office has issued a series of yellow weather warnings relating to high winds with the arrival of Sto
10/02/2020
Kirby, a leading mechanical and electrical engineering contractor with operations in Ireland, the UK and Mainland Europe, has announced key appointments at senior level. The posts are: Mark Flanagan has progressed to Group Managing Director Henry McCann has been promoted to Group Operations Direc
10/02/2020
All agencies are being urged to "work together" following the flooding caused by Storm Ciara. Sinn Féin MP Órfhlaith Begley said a number of areas of West Tyrone have been impacted by flooding as a result of Storm Ciara. She said: "I and others Sinn Féin representatives have been out in those are
10/02/2020
NIE Networks has partnered with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) to host a community tree planting event at Botanic Primary School. The partnership between NIE Networks and TCV, which began during National Tree Week, sees NIE Networks commit to planting native trees across Northern Ireland with st
10/02/2020
A proposed 12 per cent rent increase for student accommodation in University College Dublin (UCD) has been slammed by the Labour Party. Education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin said the housing crisis we are now facing is becoming a prevalent feature in Irish society and the student accommodation c
10/02/2020
Plans to expand Magee University need to move forward, according to Sinn Fein. Sinn Féin MLA Karen Mullan has said urgent decisions must be made after meeting with officials from Magee today with Martina Anderson and the Chair of the Economy Committee, Caoimhe Archibald. She said: "It's well know
10/02/2020
Irish Water customers supplied by the Teeranea/Lettermore Public Water Supply in Galway are being reminded that the boil water notice issued on the scheme on 15 January remains in place. The notice also applies to customers supplied by the Lettercallow Group Water Scheme. Emergency works at the w
07/02/2020
A new family centre in north Belfast is beginning to take shape ahead of its opening this summer. The £2.162 million Grace Family Centre on Alliance Avenue will provide families with childcare for up to 60 children, a counselling suite, a multi-functional training suite, a café and office space. T
07/02/2020
The search is underway to find 60 new electrical apprentices for the prestigious ESB Networks Apprenticeship Programme. ESB is on the lookout for individuals to take part in the four-year paid programme, which combines college-based learning and hands-on-experience within the organisation. Followin
07/02/2020
Plans for a series of environmental upgrades at a car park in L'Derry city have been approved. Derry City & Strabane District Council is moving forward with the project at Bishop Street Car Park, which will see improvements delivered and pedestrian access and permeability upgraded. These include
07/02/2020
A programme of works is set to begin imminently to bring a new £350,000 playpark to the people of Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone. Derry City and Strabane District Council will deliver the facility on a site adjacent to Mourne Park and Mourne Walk. Contractor TD McKane & Son has signed on to build the p
07/02/2020
NI Water is one of the latest companies to take part in the popular online 'Tetris Challenge', revealing a look at some of the equipment required to maintain the region's Wastewater and Sewerage Networks. The Tetris Challenge sees emergency services lay out their equipment for all to see. Staff
07/02/2020
Work is continuing to take place on the Athy Distributor Road project in Co Kildare. The scheme will see a 3.4km semi-urban distributor road delivered to alleviate significant congestion in the historic core of Athy. Kildare County Council is currently progressing an Advanced Works Contract for
07/02/2020
One of Ireland's leading construction equipment suppliers, Ridgeway has expanded its Access and Safety Store with a new product category. The company's Cordless Tool Centre has went live on the site, giving access to Hikoki and Metabo power tool ranges available to purchase. Hikoki cordless power
07/02/2020
A carriageway in Lisburn is set to close for five weeks for improvements. The Department for Infrastructure will lead a £60,000 scheme to resurface Hulls Lane, replace a drainage culvert and improve road drainage. Work will begin on Monday 10 February and run for five weeks. A series of road c
07/02/2020
The Avoca-Ballinclash water supply in Co Wicklow is the latest to be removed from an 'at risk' list following a series of upgrades. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has removed the supply from its Remedial Action List (RAL), which identifies drinking water supplies that are 'at risk' of fa
07/02/2020
The expansion of DART services to Kildare, Droghdea, and the greater Dublin area continues to rise in costs, according to new reports. New findings suggest the project will cost €600m more than previously estimated, sparking criticism from Fianna Fáil that the government has lost control of public
06/02/2020
Twenty-eight employees across Northern Ireland have struck a deal with Workplus to deliver 120 apprenticeship opportunities across the region. The programme, which helps employers develop talent through apprenticeships, estimates that almost £8m will be earned by the successful candidates over the
06/02/2020
Three new housing developments have been green lit in L'Derry and Strabane. The projects, which were approved by members of Derry City and Strabane District Council's Planning Committee, will see 88 new homes brought to the borough. Approximately 15 new houses and apartments will be constructed
06/02/2020
Approximately 20,592 people are currently classed as homeless across Northern Ireland, according to new figures. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey responded to a request for information from SDLP representative Mark H Durkan MLA. The numbers show areas like Derry and North Belfast having partic
06/02/2020
Northern Ireland electric utility firm NIE Networks has been recognised for its commitment to diversity. The business was awarded a Bronze Diversity Charter Mark from Diversity Mark NI. The Bronze Charter Mark commits organisations to focus initially on gender diversity through specific targets
06/02/2020
A major milestone has been reached regarding renewable generation on Ireland's electricity network. ESB Networks has connected its 4,000th megawatt (MW) of wind capacity on to the electricity system. Paddy Hayes, Managing Director of ESB Networks, announced the milestone at the SEAI Public Secto
06/02/2020
A proposal of 12% rent hikes for student accommodation in UCD has come under severe criticism. Reports show the Dublin college is raising prices of its student accommodation by 12% over the next three years. Local Labour Senator Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has slammed the institution for the proposal, accus
06/02/2020
Plans to bring 28 new homes to the Knockanrawley area of Tipperary Town have taken a major step forward. Tipperary County Council has struck a deal with K & J Townmore Construction Ltd to develop the housing project. With a value of €5.67 million, the Aherlow Meadow project will see the creation
06/02/2020
The district rate increase for Belfast is to stay below 2% for the sixth year running, councillors have agreed. The increase for the 2020/21 period will be 1.99%, meaning domestic ratepayers will pay an average extra charge of 63 pence per month. Around 43% of the total rate bill received by resid
06/02/2020
A £275,000 programme of roadworks has been announced in the Co Down village of Ballygowan. This project will see Carrickmannon Road improved over a distance of 1,600 metres from its junction with Bog Road to its junction with Station Road. Work will begin on Monday 10 February and run until Frida
06/02/2020
Two water supplies in County Kilkenny have been removed from the Remedial Action List (RAL) following a series of improvements. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) removed the Inistioge and Kilkenny City (Troyswood) water supplies from the list, delivering benefits to over 16,000 water consu
05/02/2020
The Northern Ireland Infrastructure Minister has committed to pushing forward legislation to encourage the use of electric bikes. Nichola Mallon met with Sustrans, an active travel charity, at CS Lewis Square in east Belfast to promote the issue. While the use of electric bikes is already legal he
05/02/2020
Northern Ireland company Environmental Street Furniture (ESF) has been selected to take part in a Department for International Trade (DIT) seminar in Finland. The Newtownabbey-based firm will be the only NI organisation attending the event, which will take place at the British Embassy in Helsinki.
05/02/2020
Plans to transform a former high school in Maghera into a new business park have taken a major leap forward. Outline planning permission has been granted for the project, which will see up to seven serviced sites built, with qualifying businesses constructing their own purpose-built facilities ran
05/02/2020
A cement-based liquid screed from Mayo-based firm McGraths has secured a landmark certification. Cemfloor has become the first cement based liquid screed to be awarded BBA Certification in the UK & Ireland following extensive testing. The solution is a high-performance cement based, free flowing
05/02/2020
Roadworks have been announced in the County Armagh town of Newtownhamilton. A £250,000 investment from the Department for Infrastructure will see a section of the Dundalk Road improved. It will extend 1.3 kilometres from a point 200m south of Blaney Road, to Cullyhanna Road. The project will help
05/02/2020
A conference focusing on the planning and delivery of education infrastructure is set to take place in Ireland next month. Education Buildings Ireland 2020 will welcome representatives from Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales to network with a range of stakeholders across two days. The sp
05/02/2020
Discussions are taking place to implement changes at Carnlough Harbour Car Park in Co Antrim. The suggested changes would see the car park reconfigured to address the need for coach parking. The seaside town has grown in popularity after featuring on the hit series Game of Thrones, when fan favou
05/02/2020
Plans have been put forward for Belfast's first major urban farm. Local SDLP councillors Séamas de Faoite and Gary McKeown put the motion to Belfast City Council on Monday 03 February. This would see the proposed farm owned by the city's ratepayers. Speaking before the Monday evening meeting, Cll
05/02/2020
A series of water mains improvement works are set to cause potential disruption to supply in Cork. Irish Water is carrying out work on Mount Verdon Terrace, Wellington Road this week to upgrade the supply. The utility has warned there may be a disruption to water supply from 9.30am to 4.30pm on Th
05/02/2020
Former Parex UK managing director Mark Shorrock has been named the new boss of Instarmac Group plc. Mark brings a host of construction and manufacturing industry experience to the role, leading Parex UK for 13 years. Before this he served as managing director of TECROC from 2002 and oversaw the sa
04/02/2020
A cross-border environmental project is set to bring new innovative works to counties Tyrone and Donegal. Derry City and Strabane District Council is leading the project to make people more aware of the environment around them while also building positive relations across all sides of the community
04/02/2020
Traditional farm buildings across Ireland have been given a conservation boost thanks to a new government grant scheme. The Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme looks to ensure that traditional farm buildings that contribute to landscape character and are of heritage value are conserved for agr
04/02/2020
Thurles town centre in Co Tipperary is set to become a vibrant hub of activity thanks to a new council strategy. Tipperary County Council is working with landscape architects LUC on a Town Centre Renewal Strategy for Thurles to support the future growth of the town and the needs of its residents,
04/02/2020
Irish firm Bennett Construction has landed a deal on a residential development in London. The Westmeath-based company has been appointed as the Principal Contractor on Phase 6 of Millbrook Park. This will see 257 fully fitted and serviced residential units built, including 17 two bed duplex apartm
04/02/2020
Locals in the Co Kerry town of Tralee have been urged to help shape the future vision of the Town Park. Located in the heart of the town, Tralee Town Park is one of the largest urban public parks in Ireland, covering 35 acres and comprising manicured gardens, walkways, a wide array of tree species
04/02/2020
Labour has launched its proposals which outline how the party will look to address the housing crisis and eradicate homelessness. The party has pledged to build 80,000 social and affordable homes to buy and rent on public land over a five-year period, through the creation of a €16 billion fund. S
04/02/2020
Only one Donegal water scheme remains on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Remedial Action List (RAL) following upgrades at three locations. The Greencastle, Letterkenny and Milford-Letterkenny water supplies were recently given the thumbs up by the EPA following extensive investment and
04/02/2020
The number of trees planted in Northern Ireland is set to increase, Environment Minister Edwin Poots has revealed. DUP representative Poots put his backing behind the planting of more trees across the region during a recent meeting. Alliance MLA John Blair welcomed the announcement, saying: "The
04/02/2020
A key residential route in North Belfast has closed for resurfacing work. Work has begun to improve a 750-metre section on Duncairn Gardens between the Antrim Road and North Queen Street. The scheme will run until Sunday 16 February. During these times weekday road closures will be in place fro
04/02/2020
The Lead Innovation Partner has been announced for Futurebuild 2020, taking place in London from 03-05 March. The UK Research & Innovation's Transforming Construction Challenge partners will lead innovation at the event, bringing three of the largest R&D initiatives in the history of the UK constr
03/02/2020
Dublin energy agency Codema has named the successor to current leader Gerry Wardell. Donna Gartland will succeed Gerry when she takes on the Chief Executive Officer role in March 2020. She will work with Gerry, who founded the company in 1997, until he steps down at the end of the year. Donna is
03/02/2020
Dungannon's new-look leisure centre has officially opened its doors to the public. This £1.8 million project has seen upgrades delivered on the centre's swimming pools, fitness suite, changing facilities and reception area. Renovations to the pool include new tiling, pool linings, surrounds, pla
03/02/2020
A project has been launched to develop a large-scale public park in Dublin's Adamstown Social Development Zone. Construction has begun on Tandy's Lane Park with support from the Local Infrastructure Housing Activated Funds (LIHAF). Clonmel Enterprises signed the Tandy’s Lane Park Works Contract la
03/02/2020
A series of upgrades have been completed at Ballynagard Water Pumping Station on the Culmore Road in L'Derry. This £1.6 million project saw the pumps and control panels at the station upgraded to provide greater robustness and efficiency to enable water to be pumped to the local Croppy Hill Reserv
03/02/2020
More than half of the promised actions set out in Rebuilding Ireland have failed, according to new analysis. Fianna Fáil representative Darragh O'Brien conducted a look into the plan based on PQs assessing each individual action outlined. It was found 52% of the 84 actions have failed. Revealing
03/02/2020
Plans to build 900 social and affordable homes at the Glass Bottle site in Ringsend have taken a major step forward. Planning permission has been granted for the first phase of the development after a string of delays. An agreement was first reached for the homes in May 2017. The progress has be
03/02/2020
Outstanding development works in the Co Antrim town of Randalstown are set to go ahead with a new developer. The original developer on the Wood Street project went into administration, with DfI now taking over responsibility under an Article 11 Enforcement. NI Water has also begun work on site to
03/02/2020
Residents in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area of Co Dublin have been called to help shape plans for a local cycle route. The Council has launched public consultation on a proposal for a route on Carysfort Avenue from Stillorgan Park Road to Convent Road. The locals will help choose between five p
03/02/2020
A £135,000 resurfacing scheme has begun in a popular residential area of Belfast. The project will see the road network improved in Belmont Park over a five-week programme. Work got underway today, Monday 03 February, and will run until Thursday 05 March. Daily weekday closures will be in place
03/02/2020
A water main has burst on the Tuam Road in Galway city, affecting supply for a number of residents. The incident occurred at 3am this morning, 03 February. Irish Water has located and isolated the burst, with a team now on site to carry out repairs throughout the day. Traffic management will be
