Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for February 2022
28/02/2022
Belfast's transformative Forth Meadow Community Greenway has taken a major step forward. Work has got underway on the next two sections of the £5.1 million project, which will connect Springfield Road, the Whiterock Community Corridor, Falls Park and Bog Meadows Nature Reserve. It will include upgr
28/02/2022
An online event is set to take place next month on the future of rail connectivity in the North West. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon will join Irish Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD at the Rail Ambition webinar on Monday 07 March, along with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Go
28/02/2022
A new playground and outdoor fitness area in Southill, Co Limerick, has been approved for development. The government has given the green light to the project, which will be located at Castle Oaks View, Southill, close to the Holy Family Parish Church and Southill Hub Community Centre. It is prop
28/02/2022
A motion to call for funding under Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer before the end of the current Assembly mandate has gained support from Derry City and Strabane District Council. Local councillors backed the motion from SDLP councillor Brian Tierney. Welcoming the support from Derry Cit
28/02/2022
Work is set to move forward on the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme later this week. The project, which will protect 1500 homes and properties from tidal flooding, will progress with further essential tree clearance recommencing tomorrow ahead of the bird nesting season and site investigatio
28/02/2022
The Housing Commission is set to meet tomorrow, 01 March, in Dublin. During this session, details of the new Referendum Subcommittee will be announced. The Programme for Government commits to holding a referendum on housing rights. The Housing Commission has been tasked with bringing forward pro
28/02/2022
A decision has been made to freeze fares on the Northern Ireland public transport network effective immediately. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon announced the news in response to the ongoing cost of living crisis facing individuals and families in the region. Announcing the decision, Minis
28/02/2022
Key projects in the County Limerick areas of Askeaton, Doon and Patrickswell are set to move forward with €1 million funding support. This comes after the latest round of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, which focuses on projects which can help to enhance rural towns and villages, with a parti
28/02/2022
A new homeless report in Dublin reveals "deeply concerning family homelessness trends", a Sinn Féin representative has said. The Dublin Regional Homeless Executive Homelessness report shows there were 19 more families accessing emergency homeless accommodation in Dublin in January this year compar
28/02/2022
Repairs are taking place in the Blackcastle, Navan area of County Meath after a water main burst. Irish Water and Meath County Council have deployed a team to address the issue. Whilst every effort is being made to maintain supply to as many customers as possible, the burst is impacting the water
25/02/2022
A new purpose-built £585,000 boxing club has been officially opened in Belfast by former world boxing champion Carl Frampton MBE. Frampton was among a host of special guests visiting TAGIT Boxing Club to mark the opening of the exciting new facilities. Funded and delivered by Belfast City Council
25/02/2022
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has outlined its transformational plans for Dundonald International Ice Bowl during a key government visit. Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Brandon Lewis toured the facilities, which are set to be redeveloped with £12.2 million from the UK Government's L
25/02/2022
A number of streets in Bangor are set to be improved through a series of footway upgrades. Approximately £190,000 is being invested to reconstruct footways on Clandeboye Way, Monea Close, Monea Way, Loverock Way, Monea Drive, Rostrevor Way, Rostrevor Drive and Rostrevor Close. Work will begin on
25/02/2022
A new scheme has been launched in south Dublin giving first-time buyers an opportunity to buy affordable homes in the area. South Dublin County Council is offering 16 three-bedroom duplex homes under the pilot affordable dwelling purchase arrangement. The affordable purchase price to be paid will
25/02/2022
Dublin-based MEP Ciarán Cuffe has been appointed as the rapporteur on a major legislative proposal to tackle climate change. The European Parliament has selected the Green Party representative as its rapporteur on the revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, a major legislation in
25/02/2022
Mercury has launched its 2022 Scholarship Programme, inviting all trades, general operatives and apprentices to progress their career further at the company. This will help high-potential trades employees move into a professional role within the company, while upskilling with a third level educatio
25/02/2022
A series of amendments have been tabled to the Climate Change Bill to support the agriculture sector. DAERA Minister Edwin Poots will bring amendments forward for debate at Further Consideration Stage next week, 28 February 2022. The amendments are to ensure the agriculture sector is not being un
25/02/2022
A series of water mains upgrades have reached completion in the County Louth village of Donore. GMC Utilities Group Limited completed the works on behalf of Irish Water, improving supply for homes and businesses in the area. Working alongside Louth County Council, the national utility replaced ne
25/02/2022
A new taskforce has been established to help the Shannon Estuary region achieve its potential in Green Hi-Tec Technology and power generation. Welcoming the establishment of the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick, Cllr Daniel Butler said: "Establishing the
25/02/2022
A Boil Water Notice has been put in place on the Doon Public Water Supply due to issues with disinfection of the water at the treatment plant. Around 700 people supplied by Doon Water Treatment Plant will be affected by the Notice, which was issued by Irish Water and Limerick City and County Counc
24/02/2022
A ceremony has been held to mark the official opening of a modern, new library in the County Cork town of Bandon. The state-of-the-art Bandon Library is almost five times the size of its predecessor, occupying the ground floor of the new Primary Care Centre on Market Place. This purpose-built fac
24/02/2022
A regional roll-out of lifesaving defibrillators at bus and train stations across Northern Ireland has got underway. Delivered in partnership with the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland (BHF NI) and the NI Ambulance service (NIAS), this scheme will see 134 units installed at over 80 locatio
24/02/2022
Construction has officially reached completion on two new, state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plants in Co Cork. Irish Water marked the milestone on the Dripsey and Coachford facilities, which address areas previously served by outdated wastewater treatment infrastructure. The new plants will
24/02/2022
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has reaffirmed its commitment to trees and forests in Northern Ireland during a visit to local company Balcas Timber Ltd. DAERA Minister Edwin Poots gave support to global wood manifesto 'Time for Timber' while visiting the company's site
24/02/2022
Young people across Northern Ireland have showcased a bright future for engineering in the region during the 2022 Energy Innovation Challenge. Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and the Royal Academy of Engineering announced the winners of the challenge. As part of NI Apprenticeship Week, Council
24/02/2022
The Draft Fingal Development Plan 2023-2029 has been launched, setting out proposals for the physical, economic, social and environmental development of Fingal. With the final plan scheduled to be adopted by councillors in February 2023, public consultation is running until 12 May to help shape th
24/02/2022
New guidance has been produced to help the construction industry improve the security and resilience of their business against cyber threats. The UK government's National Cyber Security Centre has partnered with the Chartered Institute of Building to produce this guidance to help small-to-medium si
24/02/2022
News that British Gas profits soared to £118 million in 2021 has sparked a call for a windfall on big profiting energy companies. Sinn Féin MP John Finucane has urged the British government to take action with the windfall tax and redirect the money back into people's pockets. The North Belfast MP
24/02/2022
Members of the public are set to meet in Tipperary next month to discuss the water quality in rivers across the county. Events on Tuesday 01 March and Thursday 03 will see locals consider the draft River Basin Management Plan (2022-2027), which sets out environmental objectives to protect and resto
24/02/2022
Overnight restrictions have been placed on the Trim water supply following operational issues at the local treatment plant. Water supply will be restricted from 10pm tonight, 24 February, to help Brayhill Reservoir levels recover and maintain a sufficient water supply to homes and businesses during
23/02/2022
A total of 22 environmental projects across Northern Ireland have been boosted with brand new investment. The £2.9 million Environment Fund for 2022 / 2023 will support not-for-profit organisations and councils to deliver key environmental projects that will focus on habitat restoration; species m
23/02/2022
Three new parklets have been opened in Castlereagh, creating a welcoming space for visitors and supporting local businesses. Located at Toasted Artisan Kitchen, Café Nosh and Little Thai, the parklets were developed under a new scheme supported with funding from the Department for Communities' Cov
23/02/2022
Plans have been announced to transform an existing grass training pitch in Monkstown into a new 3G synthetic surface. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is investing in the project, which will provide the area with a new surface complete with floodlights and improved access. The 3G surface wil
23/02/2022
A new initiative has got underway in the Colin area of west Belfast to remove graffiti and improve the appearance of the area. Volunteers from the Colin Neighbourhood Graffiti Removal Project took to the streets over the winter months and into Spring 2022 to improve the area. Funded by social hom
23/02/2022
A forum is set to take place in Dún Laoghaire next month exploring the facts around the introduction of wind generators on the east coast of Ireland. Led by the Green Party and Minister Ossian Smyth, the forum will feature a panel of experts in the law, engineering, energy and the ecology discussin
23/02/2022
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has come under pressure to begin the immediate roll out of the £200 fuel support payment as families struggle across the region with the recent inclement weather. SDLP Communities Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has called for the payment support to be made available
23/02/2022
A new SEAI National Heat Survey has sparked a call for the Irish government to accelerate the deployment of low and zero-carbon heating. Renewable Energy Ireland, a partnership of sustainable energy associations, welcomed the new report and urged the government to take further action. Dr Tanya H
23/02/2022
Work is set to get underway on road improvements in the County Antrim village of Glenavy next week. The Department for Infrastructure is investing £87,000 to resurface a section of Gobrana Road from the A26 Moira Road to the Crumlin Road for 0.6 kilometres. The scheme will get underway on Monday
23/02/2022
Work is taking place at Greenmount Water Treatment Plant in Co Louth to replace a pump for improved operations. Irish Water, which is working in partnership with Louth County Council, has issued a warning that the work may temporarily impact production at the plant and reservoir levels. Customers
23/02/2022
Concerns have been raised over the upcoming €200 electricity rebate and its accessibility. During a Parliamentary Question by Fine Gael representative Fergus O'Dowd, Environment Minister Eamon Ryan failed to directly answer whether residents of multi-occupancy units and full-time residents in mobil
22/02/2022
A sod-turning ceremony has been held to mark the beginning of development on the new 105-acre Native Woodland Park in Sligo. Funded under the Woodland Creation on Public Land scheme first introduced by Minister of State for Biodiversity and Land Use at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Ma
22/02/2022
Irish building solutions firm Kingspan has enhanced its position in the natural materials sector with an exciting new acquisition. The company has acquired Denmark-based Troldtekt A/S, a manufacturer of sustainably produced wood-based acoustic boards. The acquisition represents Kingspan's
22/02/2022
A new Bill has been launched which aims to amend existing legislation on vacant and derelict property, taxation measures and the processes of upgrading existing property. Under the Vacancy, Dereliction and Regeneration Bill 2022, homes that are vacant for at least 180 days in the preceding year wou
22/02/2022
A cross-border initiative is moving forward focusing on climate change for the communities in and around both Upper and Lower Lough MacNean. Irish Central Border Area Network (ICBAN), the cross-border partnership based in Enniskillen, will be working with six communities from both sides of the bord
22/02/2022
The FK Lowry Operations teams working at the prestigious Boston Sidings Project in Dublin have secured a major award for the second year running. The team were presented with a second Collen Health & Safety Award, following on from the recognition for their efforts during the first phase of works
22/02/2022
A rollout of specialised retrofit works is set to begin in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council area. DLR County Council is partnering with SSE Airtricity to upgrade 53 to a deep retrofit standard. This project has ensured residents of Ballyogan and Stillorgan initially and other areas across
22/02/2022
Northern Ireland-based Farrans Construction has become the latest name to join the Get It Right initiative (GIRI). GIRI is a not-for-profit membership organisation which sees a group of UK construction industry experts, organisations and businesses join forces to actively improve productivity, qua
22/02/2022
Former Engineers Ireland President PJ Rudden has been named as one of the five new external members of the Project Ireland 2040 Delivery Board. The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath TD announced the key appointments to the Board, which was set up in 2018 to assist in the
22/02/2022
A programme of important water network works are scheduled to begin in Cork city later this month. Work will take place on Douglas Road to provide a safer and more secure water supply to customers. Irish Water and contractor Ward and Burke Limited are working with Cork City Council to deliver the
22/02/2022
Work has got underway to improve a section of the A44 Hillside Road in Armoy, Co Antrim. The Department for Infrastructure is leading the £395,000 scheme which will see resurfacing delivered on a 2.2km section of the road between Glenshesk Road & Lagge Road. Announcing the works, Infrastructure
21/02/2022
The £4.2million Village Catalyst programme has officially launched in Northern Ireland following a successful four-year pilot project. Led by DAERA and DfC with support from the Architectural Heritage Fund, this initiative is designed to target rural poverty and social isolation and restore and re
21/02/2022
Hagan Homes is set to become the first Northern Ireland developer to open its showrooms since the pandemic began when it welcomes visitors to some of its live sites from next week. The Ballyclare-headquartered homebuilder will open the doors to its show homes across six of its live developments he
21/02/2022
Plans have been announced for a £1.3 million road resurfacing scheme in L'Derry. The Department for Infrastructure is investing in the work along the A515 Skeoge Link, starting at the Ballyarnett Roundabout and continuing westwards to the Buncrana Road Roundabout, a distance of some 2.8 kilometres
21/02/2022
The next phase of regeneration works at St Columb's Park, L'Derry, is set to get underway later this month. A deal has been agreed with TD McKane and Son Ltd to carry out the works, which will include extending and redesigning the car park off Browning Drive, as well as the creation of a new pedest
21/02/2022
A proposal has been submitted which could see Tolka Park Football Stadium in Dublin undergo a major redevelopment. Shelbourne Football Club has put forward a proposal Dublin City Council to purchase the venue and redevelop it as a multi-sport stadium. Once further details have been provided by She
21/02/2022
Northern Ireland construction professionals have expressed less optimism about the outlook of the industry than their UK counterparts, a new survey has found. The RICS & Tughans NI Construction and Infrastructure Monitor found that construction workloads in NI went down by 13% in the final quarter
21/02/2022
Work is taking place across the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council area to support the Queen's Jubilee Platinum initiative. D Company Army Cadets, based at Abbots Cross Army Reserve, has planted 250 Oak trees at Global Point, Newtownabbey, as one of the Queens Green Canopy events the Council
21/02/2022
A motion calling on the government to scrap the planned carbon tax hike is set to be debated in the Dáil later this week. The increase in carbon tax on fuels used to heat homes is due to come into effect on 01 May and on transport fuels on 12 October. Sinn Féin representative Pearse Doherty TD is
21/02/2022
Irish Water is moving forward with water supply improvements to help reduce leakage in Cavan Town. The utility is working alongside Cavan County Council to replace almost 200 metres of old water mains on Bridge Street and Wolfe Tone Street with new, modern pipes. The works will also involve layin
21/02/2022
Creativity and sustainability in design and architecture are becoming of a greater importance nowadays. Hence, it is important that more and more people are aware of the opportunities that new technologies can provide them. More and more often we hear people talking about a smart home. "Technolog
18/02/2022
County Tyrone's Castlederg football team is set to benefit from enhanced facilities thanks to new funding. The Club has secured investment from DAERA's £2million Rural Halls Refurbishment, which will be used to carry out key renovations to its facilities. Dergview received £39,900 towards total pr
18/02/2022
Cavan County Council has expanded its corporate fleet with the first electric vehicle. As part of the local authority's move towards more sustainable energy consumption, the new Nissan e-NV200 van will help reduce emissions and the Council's carbon footprint. Welcoming the addition, Cathaoirleach
18/02/2022
A £1.9 million programme of water supply improvement works is set to get underway in Antrim later this month. NI Water and contractor Farrans Glan Aqua will begin work in the Barnish Road area on 28 February for approximately six months. This is part of the utility's ongoing process to improve and
18/02/2022
A new fund has been launched which aims to help organisations deliver transformative projects within their neighbourhoods. Belfast City Council's Neighbourhood Regeneration Fund aims to help groups deliver physical development projects that will make a significant impact in their community and bene
18/02/2022
A meeting has been held between Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey and representatives from the two main football bodies over the uncertainty surrounding the £40 stadia funding. This comes after Minister Hargey revealed she could not move forward with the funding package following the collapse of
18/02/2022
Northern Ireland's planning systems is failing to deliver for the economy, communities and the environment, a recent Audit office report has highlighted. The report cited two and half to four years as being some of the fastest planning decisions in Northern Ireland, while in Republic of Ireland peo
18/02/2022
Northern Ireland contractor Farrans has been recognised with the Business Working Responsibly mark, the leading standard for sustainability. The Mark, developed by Business in the Community Ireland and audited by the NSAI, is based on ISO 26000. Established in 2010, the Business Working Responsibl
18/02/2022
Mayo County Council has added a fourth Velocity Patcher to its fleet at the Machinery Yard. Velocity Patchers are primarily used for pothole filling and maintaining the County's road network. At this time of year they will also be used to prepare the road network for the busy Surface Dressing se
18/02/2022
The Irish government has come under pressure to implement the Land Value Sharing aspect of the Housing for All strategy before the summer. This comes as high value land in Dublin is expected to be rezoned, with the government also claiming Land Value Sharing won't be delivered in 2022. Labour re
18/02/2022
Work is set to begin in Cavan Town to replace old water mains and drive down leakage. Irish Water is leading the work, which will see almost 200 metres of ageing mains on Bridge Street and Wolfe Tone Street replaced with new, modern pipes. The works will also involve laying new water service conne
17/02/2022
Nine leading examples of excellence in 2022 architecture across Northern Ireland have been shortlisted for the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) Design Awards. An expert panel of judges whittled the submissions down to the final nine, naming the North West Multi Modal Transport Hub, House B
17/02/2022
Warrenpoint Promenade is set to be completely reimagined thanks to a new multi-million pound scheme. The £2.6 million public realm scheme will include replacement of footpaths, repairs to the sea wall and replacement street furniture. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey announced the scheme, whic
17/02/2022
A ceremony has been held to mark the official opening of a new play park in the County Tyrone village of Newtownstewart. Investment of £347,000 was pledged to the project to transform a former derelict site into the new play destination with state-of-the-art play equipment including wheelchair acc
17/02/2022
The redevelopment of Montague House for Belfast-based Irish language and cultural centre Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich is continuing to progress. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey visited An Chultúrlann to see first-hand the progress of the scheme. Minister Hargey said: "Since its establishment in
17/02/2022
A new scheme has been announced which will see a footway extended and road safety improved in the County Armagh town of Portadown. Work will begin on Monday 21 February, with £60,000 being invested to extend the footway by 240 metres from the Birches Crossroads to Clonmakate Road and Birches Primar
17/02/2022
Ireland's Komatsu distributor, McHale Plant Sales is preparing for the arrival of a number of new machines. Appealing to aggregates producers is a new WA480-8 heavy-duty handler whose features include a new auto-digging mode, a redesigned, easier-to-fill digging bucket, improved operator comfort,
17/02/2022
Ireland's housing plan has taken a key step forward with approval of the standards for Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs). Approved Housing Bodies are independent, not-for-profit organisations who, alongside Local Authorities, provide housing for people on the social housing waiting list or for partic
17/02/2022
Construction has got underway on a new Toucan Crossing on High Street, Belfast. This £40,000 scheme will see the new crossing built to improve road safety, offering on-crossing detectors that can extend the crossing period for slower moving pedestrians and vulnerable road users. Other elements of
17/02/2022
NI Water has pledged a donation to Larne Football Club's Youth Academy to support its Scholarship Programme. The utility has donated 24 pre-loved desktop devices as part of the wider 'Laptops for Larne' initiative. The 24 devices have been set up in a new technology centre, based at the Cliff in
17/02/2022
The development of a new continental cheese plant at Belview near the Kilkenny-Waterford border has taken a major step forward. The Supreme Court decided to uphold An Bord Pleanála's ruling to grant planning for Glanbia Ireland and Royal A-ware’s plant. Fine Gael representatives across the South
16/02/2022
Main construction works are set to get underway on the flagship Belfast Transport Hub project. Replacing the existing Europa and Great Victoria Street bus and rail stations, the new multi-modal Transport Hub will provide greater capacity with an increase to 26 bus stands, eight railway platforms,
16/02/2022
The €12 million Hole in the Wall Road/Mayne Road Junction Upgrade project has been nominated for a prestigious construction accolade. Fingal County Council is set to compete at the Irish Construction Excellence (ICE) Awards in recognition for its work on the road, which officially opened in Decemb
16/02/2022
Finning UK & Ireland has stepped up its efforts to form a more diverse workplace with its latest recruitment drive. The engineering specialist is searching for a varied selection of candidates to join its award-winning apprentice programme, supporting the recruitment of women, as well as candidate
16/02/2022
A freeze in Northern Ireland Housing Executive rents has been announced for 2022/23. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey unveiled the measure to support residents who face soaring fuel and household bills. This announcement comes shortly after the Minister announced a £200 payment to support 280,
16/02/2022
The Castletymon District Enhancement Scheme is moving forward following approval from elected members of South Dublin County Council. The scheme will involve the upgrading and modernisation of Castletymon Shopping Centre and its environs in Tallaght. This will involve improvements within the shoppi
16/02/2022
A ceremony has been held to mark the official opening of a new Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) in the County Fermanagh village of Clabby. The new facility, which is designed mainly for young people to enjoy outdoor sporting activities, was brought to life as part of the PEACE IV Youth Focused Shared S
16/02/2022
House prices across Ireland have risen by over 14%, new CSO figures have revealed. The latest CSO Residential Property Price Index report for December 2021 shows that house prices across the State have risen by over 14.4%. Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin TD has slammed the government for no
16/02/2022
Irish-based fleet management provider MotionMetrics has bolstered its team with a new senior appointment. Mike Price has been named as the firm's new Commercial Director, taking responsibility for the growth of MotionMetric's suite of products with fleets across Ireland and the UK. With over 30 y
16/02/2022
Plans for new pathways within Antrim's Valley Park and Glas-na-Braden Glen have been green lit. Approximately £98,000 is being invested in the project, which will see three-metre wide walkways connect the west side of the Valley Park into Glas-na-Braden Glen. From there the route will then lead wa
16/02/2022
A deal has been reached for a series of upgrades at Killybegs Water Treatment Plant. Irish Water has signed a construction contract for the works, which will see the utility invest €13 million to support economic, social development and tourism in the area while reducing the risk of supply interrup
15/02/2022
Northern Ireland-based firm Henry Brothers has set out its plans to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The company's new strategy outlines aims to reduce total greenhouse gasses emissions by 2% each year for the next nine years and to halve CO2 emissions by 2030. The Journey to Net Zero st
15/02/2022
The major £18 million Ards North Wastewater Improvement Project is set to reach a major milestone when construction begins on a new long sea outfall at Ballyferris this month. Led by NI Water, the programme aims to rationalise and upgrade the wastewater collection, treatment and transfer systems se
15/02/2022
A £40 million programme to upgrade football stadiums across Northern Ireland has been shelved following the collapse of the NI Executive. Communities Minister Deirdre confirmed she could not move forward with the funding package with the absence of the First and Deputy First Ministers. Alliance M
15/02/2022
The county Armagh town of Portadown has been boosted with a programme of energy efficient LED lighting upgrades. Approximately £180,000 was invested to replace existing lights in Portadown town centre with a new LED lighting system. With a lifetime of approximately 25 years, the new lighting sys
15/02/2022
An apprentice from Northern Ireland-based construction firm Farrans has secured a prize at the K10 Annual Apprenticeship Awards 2021. Fahmida Ali was named Best 1st Year Technical Apprentice at the awards, after joining one of the community engagement programmes at a Camden school, offering student
15/02/2022
Powerscreen's global headquarters, Terex Dungannon has secured an accolade at the Zero Waste Awards. The busy manufacturing facility, which employs approximately 650 team members in Northern Ireland, was recognised for its environmental practices and contribution to sustainability. Business Line D
15/02/2022
Work is set to begin to improve a key car park in Thurles, Co Tipperary, later this month. Planned works will take place at Liberty Square (Ulster Bank) car park on Monday 21 February 2022. The car park will be closed throughout the duration of the works, which are expected to run until Saturday 2
15/02/2022
Sinn Féin has met with Firmus Energy to challenge the "extortionate" gas price hikes affecting families and businesses over the last few months. MLA Ciara Ferguson, who met with the energy provider, called for more to be done to support struggling workers and families. The Foyle MLA said: "Commun
15/02/2022
A new Draft County Development Plan has been published which sets out a guide for the future growth and development of County Leitrim. Covering 2023-2029, the Plan also lays the foundation for infrastructural developments beyond this period. Residents have been encouraged to engage with the draf
15/02/2022
A team of Irish Water engineers have worked to repair a burst water main and restore supply for customers in the Drumconrath area of County Meath. The incident, which impacted homes and businesses in Drumconrath, Ballymacolgan, Drumgill Upper and Drumgill Lower in Co Louth, occurred yesterday, 14 F
14/02/2022
Energy firm ESB has has announced a transformative drive to achieve net-zero by 2040. Driven to Make a Difference: Net Zero by 2040 sets out a path to achieve this focused on decarbonised electricity, resilient infrastructure and empowering customers. The strategy explicitly maps to the UN Sustaina
14/02/2022
A new water mains connection is being installed at the site of the new Macroom Fire Station in Cork. Irish Water is advising customers in An Gleann, Ardilaun, Carrigban, Clonfada, the Killarney Road, Millbrook Avenue, the Millstreet Road, Riverside Park, Ros Alainn, Sally Gardens, Sullane Weirs, Th
14/02/2022
The Green Party NI Has welcomed the Onshore Fracking Bill which passed Second Stage in the Assembly, however the party raised concerns about its limited scope. North Down MLA Rachel Woods said: "A Green Party NI motion in favour of banning fracking was first passed by MLAs in 2011, and the Assembly
14/02/2022
Bord Gáis Energy has extended its partnership with Focus Ireland efor five years. The partnership has been extended to help tackle family homelessness. The company has pledged a further €2 million to the cause, bringing the total commitment to €4.4m since Focus Ireland and Bord Gáis Energy joined
14/02/2022
South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has launched a new guide for a sustainable approach to managing surface water while enhancing the natural landscape of South Dublin County. The 'Sustainable Drainage Explanatory, Design and Evaluation Guide 2022' was launched in Sean Walsh Park, Tallaght by the Ma
14/02/2022
Three Kilkeel based manufacturing SMEs are investing over £650,000 collectively to grow their businesses in Great Britain and RoI. J N Hire, Mourne Craft and Anachem Hygiene will also create 12 jobs as part of their investments. Mark Bleakney, Invest Northern Ireland's Southern Regional Manager
14/02/2022
Labour housing spokesperson Rebecca Moynihan is calling for government's cost of living package must include an immediate rent freeze to help people struggling to make ends meet throughout the country. Following the publication of a RED C poll on behalf of the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) th
14/02/2022
Sinn Féin TDs has hit out at the government for its failure to allow schools across the country to install solar panels. Sinn Féin's Climate Action spokesperson Darren O’Rourke TD said: "There are almost 4,000 primary and post-primary school buildings across the state that hold huge potential to ge
11/02/2022
The first phase of construction has got underway on a £22 million social housing scheme in Strabane. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey visited the Old Adria Factory site in Beechmount Avenue to mark the major milestone. When complete, the scheme will provide 150 social homes as well as retail
11/02/2022
The development of a new theatre and conference facility in Newry has taken another step closer to delivery. A design team led by Hamilton Architects is seeking views on the proposal for the new venue in preparation for a planning application. Those interested can give feedback
11/02/2022
Plans to roll out a new water safety project in the L'Derry and Strabane area have been green lit. The project is being supported with £2,000 funding from Derry and Strabane District Council's Sports Development budget, with £10,000 being allocated to deliver the Get WET Safety project by Sport NI
11/02/2022
Members of the public are being encouraged to have their say on proposed active travel routes between Sydenham and Holywood. A public consultation has been launched on the proposals to help shape the future walking and cycling routes in the area. Launching the consultation, Infrastructure Ministe
11/02/2022
The Construction Industry Training Board Northern Ireland (CITB NI) is set to enhance its roster with 10 new appointments. A public appointment competition has been launched by the Department for the Economy to recruit 10 board members. CITB NI's aim is to encourage the training of those employed
11/02/2022
A £300,000 project has been launched to reduce the risk of out of sewer flooding in Castlederg, Co Tyrone. Led by NI Water, the sewer improvement programme will take place on High Street and will be extended to various areas of the town over a period of approximately 11 weeks. These works will be m
11/02/2022
Preparation is progressing to build 57 new homes in Moyross, Co Limerick. These homes are the latest phase of the redevelopment through the Limerick Regeneration project, with a collection of derelict houses being removed to make way for the new project. When complete, the development will span b
11/02/2022
NI Water is moving forward with the next phase of its £7 million Flood Alleviation Project in the Ravenhill Avenue area of South Belfast. This phase of work will see the new storm sewer laid from Ormeau Park up to the entrance to London Road on Ravenhill Avenue. A one-way road closure will be in p
11/02/2022
A new report into the mica and pyrite defective block scheme construction costs has been met with criticism. Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin TD has labelled the scheme "a slap in the face" to affected homeowners after discovering it indicates any agreed redress scheme will only cover the cos
11/02/2022
Locals in the Dunleer area of County Louth have been affected by a disruption to water supply. Irish Water has deployed a team to Maryville after reports of a burst water main in the area. This has impacted the water supply to homes and businesses in Maryville, Dunleer and surrounding areas in Co
10/02/2022
The development of the revolutionary Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) Learning and Development Centre close to Cookstown is set to enter its final phase of development. Work will begin on the £42.6 million last phase of the project in May 2022, with completion expected in 2024. Hea
10/02/2022
CITB NI has begun its annual search to discover Northern Ireland's top performing construction apprentice. The industry board launched its SkillBuild NI 2022 competition as part of Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2022. With categories ranging from brickwork to wall and floor tiling, this pres
10/02/2022
Economy Minister Gordon Lyons MLA has visited the site of Carrickfergus firm McCue to see first-hand how the company focuses on developing apprenticeships. The project management and bespoke joinery company was praised by the Minister for its investment in skills in the workplace and commitment to
10/02/2022
A pilot scheme has been opened in the grounds of Belfast Castle showcasing how to use open green spaces to naturally manage water. The natural flood management scheme includes a forest trail and outdoor educational space, and involved the creation of a number of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)
10/02/2022
Northern Ireland-based firm Farrans has boosted its commitment to becoming a net zero business by securing a place on the CO2nstruct Zero Industry-Change programme. The CO2nstruct Zero Industry-Change programme, launched in March 2021, brings together organisations that are demonstrating leadership
10/02/2022
On the back of successful year of sales for Merlo's Italian-made range of telehandlers, an industry insider has predicted an even busier period to come in 2022. Denis McGrath, General manager of McHale Plant Sales which distributes Merlo solutions in Ireland, outlined the busy year gone by for the
10/02/2022
Plans have been put in place to plant 400 native oak trees at three Country Park sites across Northern Ireland in response to the travel to and from COP26. This scheme will see the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs lead the tree planting scheme to offset the carbon emissions
10/02/2022
A key route in Belfast leading into Edenderry village is set to close for improvements. Approximately £25,000 is being invested in the resurfacing scheme on Edenderry Road, extending from Ruby Cottages to the Ballynahatty Road. Work will begin on Monday 14 February and is expected to be complete
10/02/2022
A number of renters across Ireland have expressed worry about affording rent and are cutting back on essentials due to rising bills, according to a new poll. The Society of St Vincent de Paul's (SVP) RED C poll found that almost half of those questioned who are renting said they were worried about
10/02/2022
Kerry County Council has come under pressure to move forward with the recently green lit South Kerry Greenway project. This comes after appeals against the project were rejected by the Supreme Court. Local Sinn Féin representative Pa Daly has welcomed the approval and called for immediate action
09/02/2022
The development of TU Dublin's new Academic Hub and Library on the Grangegorman Campus has been boosted with a key appointment. OHL-Townlink Joint Venture Ltd has agreed a deal to serve as the building contractor for the project. Designed by award-winning architects O'Donnell+Toumey, the Academi
09/02/2022
Leading provider of home heating solutions, Grant has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability by national publication The Irish Times. The firm has been named as one of three finalists in the sustainability category of The Irish Times Innovation Awards 2021. The Irish Times Innovatio
09/02/2022
An all-island wind energy record has been reached in Ireland according to new EirGrid analysis. The stormy weather over the weekend resulted in wind generation hitting a high of 4,584 megawatts (MW) on Saturday at 1.15pm. Total demand for electricity across the island at the time was 5,335 MW. The
09/02/2022
The Macroom Playground in Co Cork has undergone a major makeover 25 years after it was first built. The new-look facility makes use of several original features which were renovated and repainted. New equipment suitable for younger and older children has been installed including a new spacenet as
09/02/2022
Work is set to begin on a £57,000 scheme to alleviate the effects of flooding in Strabane. Led by the Department for Infrastructure, the project will get underway on Monday 14 February on the U4015 Pearse Gardens and is expected to be complete by Saturday 26 March 2022. During these dates the str
09/02/2022
Average rents are continuing to rise across Ireland, with renters facing increases of over 10% at the end of 2021. The new data from Daft.ie revealed an increase of 10.3% in average monthly asking rent in the last three months of 2021. Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin TD has slammed the new
09/02/2022
A new fund has been available to support Engineers Ireland members to participate in standards development. The national engineering body has partnered with the NSAI to launch the new €25,000 fund. The NSAI, established under the National Standards Authority of Ireland Act 1996, is Ireland's offi
09/02/2022
A new retrofitting scheme has been announced which gives people the opportunity to take advantage of substantial grants and loans to retrofit their home. The three main pillars of the scheme include: the expansion of the warmer homes scheme to allow eligible homeowners who are most at risk of fuel
09/02/2022
A programme of essential sewer investigation work has been announced in Portrush. Work will get underway in the Kerr Street Area on Monday 21 February 2022 which will involve CCTV surveys and cleaning of the sewerage system from existing manholes on Kerr Street and within the harbour area. It is e
09/02/2022
Plans have been put in place to complete the final surfacing and road marking works on Tirbracken Road as part of the A6 Dungiven to Drumahoe Dualling scheme. The Department for Infrastructure has announced the Drumahoe Park and Ride will be closed from Monday 14 February until Sunday 06 March to f
08/02/2022
Historic Belfast shipyard Harland & Wolff has unveiled its new Welding Academy. The new Academy will see successful applicants secure a spot on a training programme that will lead to a classification society welding certification and full-time employment. Held in partnership with Northern Regiona
08/02/2022
Preparations are underway for a new public realm scheme to begin construction in Belfast next month. The scheme on the Antrim Road will progress after securing an investment of £482,000 from the Department for Communities. It will focus on improving and enhancing the streetscape and include an upg
08/02/2022
A total of 21 community grants have been awarded by the BAM Community Benefit Fund at the New Children's Hospital in Dublin. The winning projects will share €50,000 to help focus on building stronger communities, greener communities, recreation, sports, arts and culture and education and employmen
08/02/2022
Work on Phase 3 of the track renewal project on the L'Derry-Coleraine section of rail line is back on track following the completion of a Feasibility Study. A business case is now being prepared for the project and will be subject to the necessary approval processes. Reaffirming commitment to the
08/02/2022
The development of a landmark state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant in Arklow, Co Wicklow, is continuing to take shape. Led by Irish Water in partnership with Wicklow County Council, the €139 million project will see the new facility bring significant benefits to the local community in terms
08/02/2022
DAERA Minister Edwin Poots has visited Castlewellan Castle to see first-hand the key restoration works taking place at the iconic structure. Castlewellan Castle is a Scottish Baronial Castle built by the Annesely family between 1856 and 1858. It stands close to the entrance of the arboretum overlo
08/02/2022
A ceremony has been held to mark the official opening of newly refurbished community facilities at Currie Primary School in North Belfast. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey visited the site to mark the opening of the new-look development, which was brought to life with a £144,000 investment from
08/02/2022
National electricity grid operator EirGrid has become the new Climate Action and Energy partner with non-profit organisation, Young Social Innovators (YSI). Young Social Innovators empowers and supports young people to develop and implement innovative ideas to bring about positive social change for
08/02/2022
Work is moving forward to deliver new road safety improvements in Annalong, Co Down. Construction has got underway on a new £35,000 pedestrian PUFFIN crossing on the A2 Kilkeel Road, providing a safe crossing where there is great demand. Announcing the beginning of the project, Infrastructure Min
08/02/2022
The South Kerry Greenway project is set to go into development after appeals against the scheme were rejected by the Supreme Court. Despite securing planning permission for the 27km route from Glenbeigh to Caherciveen in November 2020, Kerry County Council could not move forward with the project du
07/02/2022
Plans to develop a runway extension at Waterford Airport have taken a major leap forward. An Bord Pleanála has granted planning permission for the project, which will support the future development of the airport. Welcoming the planning permission, local Sinn Féin representative David Cullinane s
07/02/2022
Engineers Ireland has awarded its highly prestigious CPD Accredited Employer Standard to a leading Cork engineering consultancy. EM3 has secured the sought-after accolade, which recognises the company's continuing professional development (CPD) strategy. The Engineers Ireland CPD Accredited Empl
07/02/2022
A deal has been reached for a €53 million public lighting project in the South West Region. Contracts have been signed for the Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project (PLEEP), with five local authorities investing in the key upgrades. Led by Cork County Council, PLEEP South West will upgrade 77,
07/02/2022
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has stepped up efforts to reduce its carbon footprint with a new innovative trial. The local authority is trialling electric waste tipper vehicles in collaborating with Diamond Trucks. This will see Council officers test-drive the fully electric Renault Master 3
07/02/2022
The development and management of recreation within Castlewellan Forest Park is set to be led by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council under a new lease. A deal has been reached with DAERA for the local authority to assume responsibility under a lease from the Forest Service until 2045. This wil
07/02/2022
A proposal for the greater use of green hydrogen as a source of clean energy has been announced as the winning idea from Fine Gael's Better Ireland campaign. Speaking about the submission from Cork engineer David Ryan, the Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said: "To me, green hydrogen sounds like the holy grai
07/02/2022
A key transport project is set to move forward which will see a a pedestrian and cycle path and new bridge built in County Cork. This scheme will see a safe, sustainable and alternative travel route delivered between Grange and Tramore Valley Park and onwards to Douglas and the city centre. Funde
07/02/2022
A company in County Armagh has been hit with a fine over putting workers at unnecessary risk to the exposure of asbestos. Portadown Recycling and Skip Hire Limited was prosecuted after pleading guilty at Craigavon Crown Court to a total of six health and safety offences which related to the remova
07/02/2022
A series of transport improvement works has got underway in the suburb of Douglas in County Cork. These works at the Douglas village/end of South Douglas Road will help improve pedestrian and cycling facilities and reduce traffic congestion in the area. The roundabout at the junction of the South
07/02/2022
A programme of key works is continuing to progress on the historic Tipperary Town Courthouse. The structure, which was first built in 1839, is undergoing works as part of Project Ireland 2040. Work is progressing well on the project, with the roof sub-structure fully repaired, chimneys rebuilt a
04/02/2022
Plans for a new tourist attraction exploring L'Derry's maritime history have been approved. Derry City and Strabane District Council's application to seek planning permission for a new Maritime Museum and Archive at Buildings 45/46 & 49, Ebrington Square, was granted. Speaking after she green lit
04/02/2022
A major environmental improvement scheme in Enniskillen has taken a step forward with the announcement of funding. Approximately £470,000 has been pledged to the Quay Lane North project, which aims to improve the environment and vitality of Enniskillen by regenerating key linkages into the town ce
04/02/2022
A proposal to form a working group to support the regeneration of Newry City Centre has been met with unanimous support. During Newry City Centre Regeneration (NCCR) Programme Board's most recent meeting, it was agreed to recommend the formation of the group, which will respond to the findings of
04/02/2022
The Bantry Flood Relief Scheme in Co Cork has advanced with a major appointment. JB Barry and Partners Ltd. in joint venture with JBA Consulting Ltd. has agreed a deal to serve as engineering and environmental consultants, carrying out the design of the scheme. Speaking at the signing of contract
04/02/2022
A new policy has been launched which aims to empower Irish communities with the tools to create towns and villages they are proud of. The Government's Town Centre First policy seeks to support, enable and inspire communities to be active participants in the heritage-led regeneration of their towns
04/02/2022
The number of customers served by vulnerable water supplies across Ireland has reached its lowest ever level as work progresses across the nation. Irish Water is leading a significant programme of work to improve water quality and address long-standing issues with water supplies across the country
04/02/2022
Local residents in Maghera are being encouraged to have a say on plans to use more than 40 acres of green open space in the town for recreational purposes. Mid Ulster District Council earmarked the lands between Mullagh Road and Tobermore Road as an area to be developed to provide sustainable oppor
04/02/2022
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has been recognised for its commitment to environmental performance with a top industry accolade. The local authority was presented with a Platinum Award, the highest level, in the 2021 Northern Ireland Environmental Benchmarking Survey. It recognises and rew
04/02/2022
Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien has come under pressure to raise social housing income limits immediately. The call was made by Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin TD, who urged the Minister to take action to raise the limits at least in line with inflation. This comes after the Department of H
04/02/2022
A programme of water supply improvements is set to get underway in the Co Kilkenny village of Knocktopher. Irish Water and Kilkenny County Council will work as a team to replace approximately 1,350 metres of aged cast iron water mains with new modern pipes. Work will begin in early February with co
03/02/2022
Construction work has started on a major regeneration project at the New Gate Arts and Cultural Centre in L'Derry. An investment of £1.6 million by the Executive Office's Urban Villages Initiative will help create a new shared space and bring people together, Junior Minister Gary Middleton said. W
03/02/2022
Ward & Burke has been appointed to replace around 2,780 metres of old watermains with new modern pipes to provide a more reliable water supply and reduce high levels of leakage in Cork. The section of works will take place on the Close Road, East of Castletownroche National School, and will commenc
03/02/2022
AYESA has acquired Irish-UK engineering consultancy ByrneLooby, for an undisclosed consideration. Founded in 1998, ByrneLooby has expanded to become an internationally regarded engineering consultancy employing over 225 professionals in 14 offices across Ireland, the UK and the Middle East who prov
03/02/2022
Work has commenced on the construction of a new car park on Blaris Road in Lisburn. The car park will located by Blaris Drive and is being funded by the Department for Communities’ COVID-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: "I am pleased to have part f
03/02/2022
Komatsu distributor McHale Plant Sales of Birdhill and Rathcoole are reporting a "boost in sales" with the arrival here of the new Komatsu JTHB-B Series, JMHB-H Series and JMHB-V series rock breakers. Compatible with Komatsu excavators from PC09 up to PC1250 models, units are designed to achieve ex
03/02/2022
A total of £300,000 has been allocated for an improvement scheme in Coleraine town centre. Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey said the funding will be used to enhance shop frontages, including replacement signage and painting, replacement of rainwater goods and repairs to render and brickwork. Mi
02/02/2022
Kilsaran has announced a partnership with CarbonCure. As part of its overall strategy to bring more sustainable solutions to its customers, the firm has announced the signing of a landmark partnership agreement with Carbon-Cure Technologies, the first of its kind in Ireland and the UK. The proje
02/02/2022
BAM Ireland has been selected as the main contractor for the Bausch + Lomb Area 10 Expansion at its Waterford facility. The 6,000m² expansion to the northern and western sides of the Bausch + Lomb facility will provide production facilities, storage areas, offices, link corridors and staff accommo
02/02/2022
Work is continuing to deliver a significant upgrade to the water supply for customers in Barndarrig, Wicklow. The project, which began in November 2021, involves the construction of over 3km of new water mains and ancillary works linking Barndarrig to Redcross Water Treatment Plant, replacing the l
02/02/2022
Sinn Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald has hit out over the "extortionate hikes" to gas prices. She said the 34% price increase in areas of Northern Ireland are "crippling workers and families". She said: "News that Firmus are again set to increase gas prices by almost 34% is another huge blow to workers
02/02/2022
Green Party NI Councillors Barry McKee and Lauren Kendall have welcomed the support of the Planning Committee for their motion that called for DFI Minister Nicola Mallon and her Department to implement and undertake the Review of Old Minerals Permissions. Green Group Leader Cllr Barry McKee said:
02/02/2022
NI's Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Edwin Poots MLA has launched a scheme specifically for schools to improve the health of our bees and pollinators and help protect our eco-systems. DAERA Minister Edwin Poots has visited a Lisburn and District Scout Council woodland proje
01/02/2022
Dublin City Council has awarded the civil engineering contract for the construction of the Clontarf to City Centre project. The project for the North East Inner City area will see the entire road space reconfigured, with upgraded footpaths, protected cycle tracks, continuous bus lanes as well as re
01/02/2022
Engineering firm EDC has appointed Sara Steele to the role of Executive Director in its Cork Office in Ireland. Sara will oversee EDC’s company growth plans for 2022 and beyond. Sara has in-depth experience in the Industrial, process and manufacturing fields and will bring her collaborative leader
01/02/2022
Work has commenced on two road resurfacing schemes in Ballymoney. The works on Killagan Road will extend for a distance of approximately 2.6 kilometres from the B16 Bellaghy Road junction to near the U4153 Boyds Road junction. NI's Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: "This significant inv
01/02/2022
NI's Environment Minister Edwin Poots MLA has visited a saltmarsh blue carbon habitat at Castle Espie to hear about its vital contribution to climate change and protecting our natural world. The main purpose of the visit was to highlight ongoing evidence gathering and efforts to protect and enhance
01/02/2022
Work is to begin to replace ageing back yard water mains, lead service connections and construct new water mains in the Balloonagh Estate, Mountain Close, St. Josephs Estate and Michael O’Flynn Terrace, Tralee, Kerry. The works will commence next week and will be carried out on behalf of Irish Wat
01/02/2022
Northern Ireland's Planning Review is a "missed opportunity" for reforming the planning system. according to a Sinn Fein MLA. Newry and Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan said: "The long awaited publication of the Planning Review is deeply disappointing. "Instead of reforming and improving the processing,
