Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for August 2008
29/08/2008
The winner of an 'Open Ideas Architectural Design Competition', for the site of 16 Henrietta in Dublin, has been announced. Dublin City Council has confirmed Ryan W. Kennihan Architects submitted the chosen design. The council will host an exhibition showcasing all entrants next week. The displa
29/08/2008
A leading Fine Gael TD and the party's Energy Spokesperson, Simon Coveney, has called on Minister Eamon Ryan to outline in detail how the Government intends to reduce Ireland's spiralling emissions. The call comes as the ESRI forecasts a 5% rise in emissions for 2007 against the Minister's commitm
29/08/2008
Mortgage lending growth in Ireland fell below 10% for the first time in over 20 years, during July, according to figures published by the Central Bank. Annual growth rate was down to 9.6%, the biggest drop since 1987. The amount of mortgage lending increased by €964m in July, according to the ban
29/08/2008
Northern Ireland politicians and construction industry representatives will gather in Belfast next week, to hear the short listed finalists for the Construction Excellence Awards 2008. The delegations will converge on Invest NI Head Quarters, in the city, for the meeting, organised by the Construc
29/08/2008
NI Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has welcomed the efforts of local councils and his Department to come up with new ways to dispose of waste. The Minister claimed the work of his officials and the three district council waste management groups to find viable alternatives to landfill were an exce
29/08/2008
Three Northern Ireland centres of acedemic excellence are gearing up to showcase their 'clean technology' research to a global audience at conference in Copenhagen. The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), the QUESTOR Centre at Queen’s University Belfast and the University of Ulster’s Centr
29/08/2008
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has completed a major improvement scheme and a kitchen replacement scheme in the Waterside area of Derry. A total of £1.7m was invested in modernising 180 homes in the Currynierin, Lettershandoney and Milltown areas of the city. Commenting on the completion o
29/08/2008
A boil water notice has been lifted for residents in Pallasgreen, Limerick, following consultation between the local county council and the Health and Safety Executive. The notice was put in place on 22 August following the detection of E-Coli. Extensive testing by the local authority's Environme
29/08/2008
As reported yesterday on Build Ireland News, revised plans for a John Lewis store at Sprucefield have reduced the size of the overall scheme. Joint venture partners Westfield and Snoddon Developments submitted the fresh planning application to Lisburn City Council yesterday. The revamped propo
29/08/2008
A Moira building firm is bucking the trend on the continued slow-down in the construction industry having been awarded a £12 million contract to construct part of the BBC's new Manchester base. McMullen Architectural Systems will undertake the curtain-walling work at the corporation's new site, wh
28/08/2008
A Northern Ireland building firm has slashed its house prices by almost 40%, in a fresh bid to inject life into the ailing property market. Fraser Houses NI LTD has trimmed £90,000 off the price of its semi-detached properties in Glengormley, reducing the price from £229,500 to £139,950. This dr
28/08/2008
The Sisk Group, the larget construction firm in Ireland has laid off more than 10% of its staff this year. The Group Chief Executive, Liam Nagle, said around 300 of its 2,900 workers had been made redundant on a phased basis from the business. The employee cuts at Sisk Group are believed to be th
28/08/2008
Revised planning proposals for a £200 million John Lewis store in Northern Ireland are to be unveiled today. The fresh plans come amid strong opposition to the Sprucefield site from local commerce groups. Venture partners Westfield - owner of Belfast's CastleCourt shopping centre - and local dev
28/08/2008
Clarecastle residents are to be given an opportunity to contribute to the draft Ennis & Environs Development Plan 2008 at a public meeting next week. Clare County Council will host the consultation event in Clarecastle Community Hall on Thursday 4 September. Submissions and observations that relat
28/08/2008
NI Roads Service has announced plans to spend £250,000 on refurbishing Ballymena's Town Centre Multi-Storey car park. It is latest phase of a refurbishment programme that has been ongoing for four years. The car park refurbishment involves major works on all levels, including the sealing of surfac
28/08/2008
A €22 million sports centre at NUI's Galway campus has been opened to students, staff and the general public. The 6,500 square metre facility, located near the Quincentennial Bridge, houses a 25-metre six-lane swimming pool with moveable floor, squash and racquetball courts, a three-court basketba
28/08/2008
NI Finance Minister Nigel Dodds has urged member of the public to respond to the current consultations to improve the domestic rating system. The consultations, which end next month, focus on three policy areas. A rates deferment scheme for home owning pensioners; improved data sharing powers to
28/08/2008
NI Communities Minister Margaret Ritchie has officially opened a newly built childcare facility in the Ballee area of Ballymena. The Minister said: "The new building will provide excellent facilities for the pre-school playgroup and after-schools club which are run by the local community. "I am p
28/08/2008
A new report has warned that around 5,000 Irish B&Bs are operating without satisfying any health and safety standards. This shocking figure has been highlighted in a study by the Town and Country Homes Association. The association, who represents around 60% of registered B&Bs in Ireland, has call
28/08/2008
Expanding export contracts has become the top priority for a Claudy-based firm, who has been 'piped' support from Invest NI. Pipesketch Ltd is being assisted to develop contracts for its expertise in design, supply, installation and testing of its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning pipewor
27/08/2008
Irish building suppliers group Kingspan has said its pre-tax profits for the first six month of 2008 are down over 20%, on last year’s performance. The group earned €83.9million in the first half of this year, compared to €108.1m during the same period in 2007. Turnover dropped 6.5% to €849.4m.
27/08/2008
Work is well advanced on an extensive £100 million leisure, commercial and residential development beside St Anne's Cathedral which will regenerate one of Belfast's most historically significant city centre sites. Scheduled to open in summer 2009 the Saint Anne's Square development is being undert
27/08/2008
A €4.6 million contract to build a 34-house scheme at Mullagh Road, Miltown Malbay, has been signed by Clare County Council and Nenagh-based firm Multeen Developments. "This represents a major investment in North Clare not least because of the slow down in the Irish economy, but also because it wil
27/08/2008
Northern Ireland Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, visited Omagh District Council's offices yesterday to view draft proposals for the future of Omagh. Commenting on the exhibition, the Minister said: "This exhibition showcases the proposals for the future regeneration of Omagh. It pres
27/08/2008
Irish crooner Ronan Keating has been given permission to build a contentious new home in Malahide. Keating, and wife Yvonne, had faced opposition to their original proposals from neighbours. But Fingal County Council has now granted permission for the three-storey build, located in the upmarket
27/08/2008
A call has been sounded for construction firms across Northern Ireland to vie for an industry award, aimed at finding best practice in the Province. Constructing Excellence NI is looking for projects that are innovating or applying an element of best practice, which will ultimately lead to a step-
27/08/2008
A water conservation scheme, in Galway, has been awarded €5.7 million in additional grant aid. Local TD Michael Kitt welcomed the extra funding, announced by Environment, Heritage and Local Government Minister John Gormley. The county council's Water Conservation Programme's total grant support
27/08/2008
The University of Ulster (UU) is taking a pivotal role in a £2 million project studying the acceptability of measures which would enable householders to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. UU is one of six universities working together on the four-year project, which is supported by maj
27/08/2008
Clare TD Tony Killeen has welcomed €305,970 top-up funding for CLÁR, to carry out work on the Leitrim/Shyan Group Water Scheme in West Clare. Mr Killeen expressed confidence that the funding would help address some of the outstanding concerns of 121 households in Drumelihy, Cree, Cahermurphy and Co
27/08/2008
Questions have been raised over the validity of a pilot road scheme implemented in Galway city, aimed at easing heavy traffic congestion. The Renmore project prohibits motorists from utilising local roads as shortcuts in and out of the city. Drivers are only permitted one-way access to Renmore P
26/08/2008
The current housing market slump has presented local authorities in Ireland with the opportunity to 'snap-up a bargain', in the new build and second-hand sectors. This housing stock could be used to shore-up growing social housing waiting lists, according to Munster MEP Kathy Sinnott. Ms Sinnott
26/08/2008
Refurbishment work progress at Belfast City Hall has been lauded by the Lord Mayor. First Citizen Tom Hartley visited the city hall to see first hand the massive refurbishment taking place there. The iconic building has been temporarily closed since October 2007 while major renovations are underw
26/08/2008
Investors in Letterkenny have been presented with a 'golden' opportunity to seize a 'steak' in one of Donegal's favourite nightspots. After it was announced the long-established Golden Grill will put up for sale. Receivers have moved in, and agents Sherry Fitzgerald Rainey have begun advertising
26/08/2008
One of Northern Ireland's busiest freight 'gateways' has had a boost. The importance of the Port of Larne to the economy was highlighted during a recent visit by NI Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy. Making his first tour of the ferry port, Mr Murphy met with senior port management and s
26/08/2008
The National University of Ireland, in Galway, has lodged proposals for a new €61 million School of Engineering building at its Upper Newcastle campus. The 'ultra-modern' project will be located north of the Quincentennial Bridge in Upper Newcastle, according to plans. Five engineering departmen
26/08/2008
It's not everyday an Executive Minister arrives on your doorstep, but one Omagh resident warmly welcomed Margaret Ritchie into her home today. And like all good house guests, Ms Ritchie did not arrive empty-handed. The Minister presented the Gallows Hill resident with an emergency alarm system.
26/08/2008
Galway TD Padraic McCormack has lambasted the Government's distribution of housing repair grants, which he says has created a "scandalous situation". The Fine Gael member, commenting on the progress of the scheme so far this year, said the Housing Minister should ditch the grants, instead of allow
26/08/2008
Roads in Connemara Gaeltacht are set to receive an additional quarter of a million euros of investment. The extra funding was announced by Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Minister Éamon Ó Cuív. Galway County Council will now undertake €252,100 worth of improvement through the Accommodation
26/08/2008
The industrial body representing Irish builders is to launch a nationwide roadshow, to help its members maximise profits during the current economic slump. The Construction Industry Federation will host the tour, aimed at shoring up business, throughout next month. Accountants and business consu
26/08/2008
Renewable Energy Skills has announced it will host the 4th National Renewable Energy Heating Conference in The Shannon Shamrock Conference Centre, Bunratty, County Clare in October. The key focus of this year's conference will be the promotion of quality assurance within the renewable energy heatin
25/08/2008
The commercial property market has come to a "virtual standstill", despite a dramatic drop in the value of deals, according to a report by estate agent CB Richard Ellis. During the first half of 2008, investors agreed deals worth €392 million, a mere fraction of the value of transactions completed
25/08/2008
The family of a man found dead at a Mullusk landfill site have called for a full investigation into his death. Relatives of David Leyland said they want to find out the cause of the tragedy, so it can never happen again. The 23-year-old went missing from the Biffa site, where he was working, on
25/08/2008
Proposals for a €50 million housing project, outside Letterkenny, are expected to be submitted to the planning authority this weeks, according to reports. The plans include 204 houses and apartments, cycle paths and public spaces, all located on a 22-acre Killyclug site. Developer P and C McGett
25/08/2008
Belfast shipyard workers have been evacuated from Belfast Harbour following a fire. Around 50 Harland and Wolff employees fled after a blaze broke out on a ship berthed at Workman's Road, Queen's Island. The fire has now been extinguished. No injuries have been reported. Police and the fire se
25/08/2008
At a time when property market experts have spoken of a serious dent in consumer confidence, supermarket giant Tesco is reportedly planning to sell-off a number of Irish sites to generate working capital. The market leader is understood to be seeking around €70 million for the properties, to faci
25/08/2008
NI Roads Service has announced plans to carry out a bridge joint replacement at Shanes Viaduct on the M22 Motorway. Shanes Viaduct is between Junction 2 Ballygrooby and Junction 3 Moneynick. The improvement works started on Saturday and are expected to run for 11 days. Mark McPeak, Roads Servic
25/08/2008
Local representatives and charities have welcomed the beginning of extension work at Cork's Fermoy Community Hospital. The construction scheme will provide the hospital with an additional 30 beds. Chair of St. Patrick's Hospital Fundraising Association, Tom Higgins, said: "This is welcome news t
25/08/2008
Tenants in a Co Antrim suburb have hit out at claimed delays in routine maintenance at their NI Housing Executive homes. Glengormley's Glenvarna housing estate residents are 'up in arms' over the waiting time for a Housing Executive maintenance scheme. A local politician, former Mayor and now Chai
25/08/2008
A social network website for people with a vested interest in property, or associated with the property arena, went live today. The innovative website -
25/08/2008
A County Down businessman appearing at Newry Magistrates' court on 22 August 2008 was fined for breaches of waste management legislation. Francis Joseph Donnelly (57) of Mountain Road, Cloghoge was fined a total of £200 plus £49 court costs. Northern Ireland Environment Agency officers investigate
22/08/2008
Representatives from the residential construction sector have expressed fears over the potential "catastrophe" facing their industry. The group, meeting in Cookstown earlier this week, said an agreement must be reached to release the flow of equity in the housing market. Construction and Proper
22/08/2008
The planning appeals board has postponed an oral hearing into contentious proposals to build a meat and bonemeal incinerator in Meath. An Bord Pleanála was expected to hear the case next week, kicking off several weeks of discussions. It appears no new date for the hearing has been scheduled. T
22/08/2008
The Irish government has unveiled its long-awaited homelessness strategy, which has promised to eradicate the number of rough-sleepers in five years. The announcement was made amid a series of public spending cutbacks across government departments. The strategy, named 'The Way Home', was launched
22/08/2008
Northern Ireland's First Minister Peter Robinson and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness have welcomed the announcement of a new initiative by Ulster Bank, to help first time buyers get on the property ladder. The new scheme, announced by the bank and local property developers, means that first
22/08/2008
An inner city housing scheme will open in Dublin next month, offering 30 homes for those leaving emergency accommodation. Located in south Dublin, the accommodation was built by the De Paul Trust. The announcement coincides with the Irish Housing Minister's unveiling of a five-year master plan to
22/08/2008
The Irish National Trust has played down the need for an expansion of the M20. An Taisce said there "is no justification" for the construction of the new road. The body has insisted the €1 billion highway between Cork and Limerick is unsustainable. It said the road would be unlikely to attract
22/08/2008
The storm damaged canopy at Antrim railway station will be replaced as part of a £250,000 restoration project, Northern Ireland Rail has confirmed. The work will form part of Northern Ireland Railways' ongoing drive to improve facilities for local communities. The work, which is due to commence
22/08/2008
The search for a landfill site supervisor - missing overnight - has stepped up a notch with helicopters joining in the search which was resumed this morning after police were forced to call off their hunt at Mallusk late last night. They are hunting for David Leyland, 23, who works at Biffo Waste s
22/08/2008
Thieves who have been targeting empty Co Antrim homes belonging to the N I Housing Executive may soon be facing legal action. Local reports indicate that Poleglass houses have been receiving the unwelcome attention at different periods over the last year. The roof and chimney watercourses are bein
22/08/2008
Following the flooding outcry, the Minister for the Environment has signed new building regulations making the installation of dual flush toilets mandatory. John Gormley announced that following a public consultation process, he has signed into law an amendment to the national Building Regulations
21/08/2008
A metaphorical 'tightly-bolted door' that is keeping many first-time house buyers out of the market, could be about to be unlocked, through a new bank-led initiative. Ulster Bank has joined forces with property developers from across Northern Ireland to support hard-pressed first-time buyers onto
21/08/2008
The credit squeeze has forced down the number of mortgage products on the Irish market by 20%. There has also been a rise of an average of 0.75 percentage points in tracker rates for new customers, and the withdrawal of most discount trackers. A year after the first twinges of the credit crunch,
21/08/2008
A top Irish property website has reported a substantial increase in the availability of rental units, with supply during the past year reaching an all-time high. Daft.ie said the high supply of rental stock has led to a 2.2% fall in rents over the last three months. The data has been generated f
21/08/2008
The construction industry slump has contributed to new figures that suggest the number of men unemployed in Ireland is now double the amount of women. During the past year more than 27,700 building jobs have been wiped from the labour market, resulting in a virtual standstill in employment rates
21/08/2008
Environmental adjustments to working practises are high on the agenda for a new Invest NI-led scheme, aimed at helping local builders ride the storm of the current housing market slump. The three-stage initiative, launched next month, aims to help construction companies and suppliers in the North W
21/08/2008
A bold scheme is afoot to store million of tonnes of natural gas and carbon-dioxide (CO2) off Dublin Bay. At the helm of the ambitious plans are Providence Resources, headed up by Tony O’Reilly Jnr, and Start Energy, who will commence an evaluation of Kish Bank basin project soon. A three-year
21/08/2008
A major new outdoor recreational facility has been officially opened to members of the public in Castletroy, County Limerick. Costing an estimated €2.2m to develop, Castletroy Park is now one of the largest purpose-built public park and amenity areas in the midwest region. The delivery of the 17-a
21/08/2008
Limerick County Council, following consultation with the Health Service Executive, has issued a boil water notice to customers served by the Rockhill Water Supply Scheme in County Limerick. Extensive testing by the local authority’s Environmental Laboratory staff has identified E-Coli in the water
21/08/2008
Councils across Northern Ireland have begun to offer reparations to residents affected by last weekend's unprecedented floods, caused by record rainfall. Belfast City Council has approved 156 emergency payments as a result of the flooding in the city. The council has received 336 requests so far
21/08/2008
A North Clare-based community crèche has received a funding allocation of €66,114, from the Department of Health and Children. The funds allocated to Lisdoonvarna Community Childcare Centre will be invested in an on-site Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system, crèche equipment, outside seating are
20/08/2008
NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has expressed optimism for the long-term sustainable future of the Northern Ireland construction industry. Stressing that strengthening the sector is one of her Department's priorities, she told Build Ireland news website during a tour of Belfast's Crumlin Road
20/08/2008
A delay in garda clearance has left around 10% of Dublin City Council homes vacant, according to a local councillor. The process of carrying out police checks on new tenants means some 10% of the council's housing stock is lying unoccupied. The Dublin vacancy rate is more than double the national
20/08/2008
A consortium of Northern Ireland contractors, builders and property developers has tabled urgent talks to examine the state of the local economy. The meeting comes on the same day as NI Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie hosts the Shadow Secretary of State Owen Paterson to look at proposed housing
20/08/2008
The Irish Planning Appeals board has rejected proposals to build a contentious hotel development in Tipperary. The development, which received strong opposition from locals, was to be built on a Cashel site, formerly owned by the Presentation Sisters. A local pressure group has insisted the nuns
20/08/2008
Recent household flood damage across Northern Ireland has prompted the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) to warn homeowners and businesses to check the credentials of any contractor they employ to carry out flood repairs. Maire Devlin, Director of FMB Northern Ireland, said: "Many people will be
20/08/2008
Repairs on roads adversely affected by works on the Kilnaboy Group Water Scheme will be repaired, Clare County Council has confirmed. In a written response made by Minister of State Tony Killeen, on behalf of the local community, the council assured a resolution had been reached with the group sch
20/08/2008
One of Northern Ireland's top universities has received accreditation from the professional body overseeing standards in land use planning. The Royal Town Planning Institute has awarded Provisional Accreditation to the University of Ulster's School of the Built Environment's four-year degree progra
20/08/2008
Limerick Council and the Football Association of Ireland have undertaken a project to provide all weather soccer and multiuse facilities at separate locations throughout Co Limerick. The five separate Astroturf pitches for young people will be situated in Abbeyfeale, Patrickswell, Hospital, Rathke
20/08/2008
Two new Multi Use Games areas have been officially opened in Ardowen and Parkmore in Brownlow. NI Communities Minister Margaret Ritchie launched the schemes, together with a similar facility provided in Kilwilkie, Lurgan, which were funded by the Department for Social Development through the Neigh
20/08/2008
'Model' farmers across Northern Ireland have been urged to apply to become Focus Farms within the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, by Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew. Through the RDP, a range of farm businesses will be selected to become Focus Farms. This coaching and mentoring sche
19/08/2008
The contractor behind Belfast's Broadway underpass, which sustained serious flooding at the weekend, has denied design flaws were to blame for the incident. At one point the underpass stretch of the Westlink motorway was flooded with around 20 feet of water. City-bound traffic was only reopened
19/08/2008
The body representing Irish builders has blasted negative press reports, which it says are discouraging some young people from pursuing a career in construction. The latest Central Applications Office (CAO) figures have pointed to a fall in interest for courses linked to the building trade. Mor
19/08/2008
Northern Ireland Roads Minister Conor Murphy has announced his decision to proceed with the £46 million A2 Broadbridge Maydown to City of Derry Airport Dual Carriageway scheme. Having considered the inspector's report of his findings on the public inquiries held to consider the A2 Broadbridge sche
19/08/2008
Irish retail giant Dunnes Stores has failed to gain planning permission for a €200m Dublin distribution centre, amid growing concerns the group will shelf plans for further expansion throughout the country. Fingal County Council rejected proposals for the Donabate distribution centre, citing conce
19/08/2008
The childhood home of football superstar George Best has been put up for sale. The modest east Belfast house is on the market for £165,000, boasting three bedrooms and a back garden once tread by a budding football protégé. Number 16 Burren Way had been occupied by the Best family for over 60
19/08/2008
A Co Londonderry-based shower tray manufacturer, Spa-Jet, has developed a new product range aimed at increasing export sales. The Coleraine company, which employs 24 people at its Hawthorn Terrace premises, has developed an upmarket range of slim line and lower profile shower trays, with help from
19/08/2008
Limerick County Council will cut the ribbon at a major new public park and amenity area in Castletroy later this week. The development of 'Castletroy Park' follows an eight-month long construction contract between Limerick County Council and contractor L&M Keating of Kilmihil, County Clare. The €2
19/08/2008
Preparations are underway for the introduction of a new improved Pay as you Go bin charge payment system in south Dublin. The abolition of the current bin tag is planned before the end of 2008. Council officials have confirmed that the bin tag system is to be replaced by a Pay As You Go system th
19/08/2008
The National Roads Authority will investigate flash floods that forced the closure of the N3 at Blanchardstown, and a part of the M50, last week. The authority is set to liaise with Fingal County Council to find the reasons behind the flooding. The N3 was particularly badly affected by the delug
19/08/2008
Donegal Heritage Week kicks-off this Sunday, marking the seventeenth year of built environment appreciation in the county. Since 1991, European countries have celebrated their heritage over the course of European Heritage Days, a joint initiative of the Council of Europe and the European Union.
18/08/2008
Emergency government meetings held at the weekend have prompted Environment Minister Sammy Wilson and Roads Minister Conor Murphy to step-up their departments’ efforts against disastrous flooding experienced across Northern Ireland. Crisis talks at Stormont Castle focused on major problems that h
18/08/2008
Employment in the construction industry fell 15.2% during the 12 months leading to June, according to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The construction jobs index dropped from 109.8 in June 2007 to 93.1 a year later. Records have plummeted to an eight-year low and illu
18/08/2008
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has made a prohibition order against Niall Maneely, a director of Maneely & Co, a Coalisland estate agent, banning him from estate agency work. An adjudicator found that Niall Maneely failed to disclose to a potential purchaser that a property being marketed by Man
18/08/2008
The wider spectrum of trades associated with the ailing housing market are beginning to feel the impact of the slowdown. A County Londonderry windows firm has confirmed plans to slash its workforce by half. Hillcrest Group said 15 of its 23 employees would be laid off, citing the downturn in con
18/08/2008
The Irish planning appeals board is to hear criticism of Fingal County Council’s archaeological assessment of a proposed 500,000-tonne capacity "super-dump" near Lusk, in north Dublin. An Bord Pleanála will hold the public hearing to consider elements of a new report by Iron Age archaeology expert
18/08/2008
Workers facing redundancy at a Westmeath factory have voted overwhelmingly to accept proposals from a new buyer, which will save over 300 jobs. Iralco employee met with C&F Tooling last week, along with joint liquidators McStay and Luby, to hear proposed plans. The Galway-based car-part manufac
18/08/2008
Irish Minister of State Tony Killeen has received the tender recommended by Clare County Council for the €1.2 million extension and refurbishment works at Shannon Fire Station. Mr Killeen said: "The Department has informed me that it has now approved the tender recommended by Clare County Council
18/08/2008
Rail travel for Enniskillen commuters looks set to get a boost if new proposals for an expansion get the go-ahead. Operators Translink have already announced ambitious plans for an extended and expanded rail network across the Province. Part of this scheme has now been offered-up to Enniskillen
18/08/2008
Widespread flooding has caused chaos across the island of Ireland over the past fortnight, none more so than for drivers. Now, new technology could offer a valuable service for motorists at risk on flooded roads. The equipment has been designed to allow cars to alert other road users of hazard
18/08/2008
One of Ireland's leading property websites has purchased a stake in a growing community website business. Daft Media, owner of leading property website Daft.ie, has announced the acquisition of a minority stake in Boards.ie for an undisclosed sum. Boards.ie is Ireland's largest community website
15/08/2008
The construction industry downturn has claimed its latest victim. Creagh Concrete Products has confirmed 90 redundancies across the UK. The firm runs branches in Ardboe, Tyrone, producing precast slabs, pre-mixed concrete, aggregate and building blocks. A contraction in orders has meant the firm
15/08/2008
Plans have been submitted for a massive Dublin tower amid simmering discontent that the development will dwarf its historic neighbours. Concerns have been raised about the sheer scale of the 11-storey structure, designed to replace the city’s former motor tax office. Particular apprehensions hav
15/08/2008
An investigation is set to get underway later today into how two men came to fall into Carlingford Lough while working on a construction project. The pair have been rescued from Warrenpoint Harbour after the structure they were working on collapsed into the sea. The contract workers were undertaki
15/08/2008
Prize winning poet Seamus Heaney is lending his support to a celebratory festival at Tara, in opposition to controversial plans for the M3 motorway. The event has also received the backing of poet Paul Muldoon, and a number of Irish musicians. The 'Turn on Tara' event will kick-off the first day
15/08/2008
International building materials group, CRH plc, has announced the appointment of Glenn Culpepper as Group Finance Director Designate. Mr Culpepper will succeed Myles Lee, the current Group Finance Director and Group Chief Executive Designate, who takes over from Liam O'Mahony on his retirement at
15/08/2008
Monaghan County Council and Newry and Mourne District Council have confirmed finalised plans for the construction of a new cross-border bridge. The current bridge has become an accident hotspot, with several road crashes at its dangerous double bend. The work will be completed in conjunction wit
15/08/2008
Ballygawley-based Tyrone Fabrication Ltd has announced an investment of £680,000 in an ambitious expansion project, which will create an additional 15 jobs. The firm aims to increase its turnover to around £9 million by the end of next year, and has received £60,000 support funds from Invest Northe
15/08/2008
Leading Irish safety firm, Shorcontrol Safety, has been awarded accreditation by the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) for Stephen Magee, who operated from its training centre in Naas, Kildare. Shorcontrol Safety, who specialises in training, equipment and consultancy, has already been accredited for FÁ
15/08/2008
The North Central Area Neighbourhood Awards have taken place in Dublin, with the Best Modern Retail Building prize going to Carville Rickard Solicitors. The awards were officiated by Lord Mayor Eibhlin Byrne at the Civic Centre, Coolock. Prizes were awarded in nine categories including: best res
15/08/2008
The Roofline Quarterly Trends report has shown a substantial increase in the importance stockists and installers place on providing a colour range. Irish firm Freefoam has recognised this need with its wide range of products, which it said it has achieved through "continuous innovation". Freefoa
14/08/2008
South Down MLA Caitríona Ruane has welcomed the granting of planning permission for a new Glassdrumman hotel as "good news for the Mournes", (pictured). A seven and a half acre site, near Annalong, will accommodate the £10 million project, which is set to include a 50-bedroom hotel and around 20 ch
14/08/2008
A multi-million euro commercial and resident development in Cork has been given the green light, despite strong opposition from the local authority. Cork Council raised concerns about the traffic implications of the €85m Carrigtwhohill development getting the go-ahead. The council initially refu
14/08/2008
Extensive restoration and new building work at one of the top, multi-disciplinary community art resource centres in Northern Ireland has been given ministerial support. The NI Arts and Culture Minister Gregory Campbell gave his backing to the initiative when he visited The Playhouse, Londonderry to
14/08/2008
Traffic problems have been predicted for Dublin, with the unveiling of a huge infrastructural project. The project manager of the proposed €2billion Dublin rail link development has admitted road users will be inconvenienced during the works. Public consultation meetings concerning the massive de
14/08/2008
A South Down MLA has blasted 'garden grabber' developers - who build on any available open space - and who are now bearing the brunt of the housing market slump. But Jim Wells said Newcastle residents can expect stalled housing projects to re-emerge once conditions improve. Assembly Member Mr W
14/08/2008
The reported success of Dublin Port in 2007 has been attributed to a major expansion that was undertaken to support roll-on roll-off trucks. Last year the port experienced its best 12 month trading period ever. This week the body confirmed that profits had risen by around 7%, bringing annual tur
14/08/2008
Following recent news that hotels in Northern Ireland are now excelling with even higher occupancy levels than that of Dublin, there's more positive signs of progress in the hospitality trade today. Lord Diljit Rana, Chief Executive of Andras House, (pictured, inset) said he was so confident of fur
14/08/2008
Five men have been questioned by police in Northern Ireland following an operation focused on the sale of illegally laundered fuel. Searches were carried out at private and commercial premises in Belfast, Kilkeel, Newry and Lurgan on Tuesday. Following these searches four of the men were detaine
14/08/2008
Stolen Tipper Trucks, and other valuable construction machinery, taken from Irish building sites, are being flogged in the Middle East, according to Gardai sources. The expensive equipment is being sold-off in countries like Saudi Arabia and Dubai, where the construction trade is booming. The po
14/08/2008
Larry Laffan Steels Ltd is proud to announce the opening of its new distribution centre at Knockbridge, Dundalk. The new depot is designed to better serve the company's new and existing customers both in the Republic and Northern Ireland. The Knockbridge site is ideally situated between the major
13/08/2008
Irish housing market commentators have suggested the sector is going through a drastic correction, which could result in 40% being wiped off peak prices. A survey, which questioned economists, said the price decline would continue through the rest of this year. However, the experts have project
13/08/2008
Market indicators have suggested the Northern Ireland 'property crash' is experiencing a decelerated pace of decline than other parts of the UK. Figures produced by the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) have revealed the Province's housing market is faring slightly better than other
13/08/2008
A draft masterplan for Ballymena town centre, funded by the Department for Social Development, has been launched for public consultation. The significant boost for Ballymena was unveiled at a meeting of the town's Business Improvement District Board yesterday. The plan contains pro
13/08/2008
NI Employment Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has confirmed the appointment of a new Chairperson and seven new members, to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).
13/08/2008
People in the Downpatrick area are a step closer to their state-of-the-art Wastewater Treatment Works, as construction commenced to upgrade the Downpatrick treatment facility. Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) has invested £9.7 million to design and construct a works, which not only serves the nee
13/08/2008
Local representatives from East Antrim have gone on site to view the work being carried out at Glynn and Larne Town rail stations, part of the wider upgrade programme across the Larne line. The work being carried out at all stations, and halts on the NI Railways network, is part of a £17 million in
13/08/2008
Two thirds of protected nature conservation sites in Northern Ireland are in a favourable condition, according to the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. A report on sites designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) has been published on the NIEA website. NIEA Director of Natural He
13/08/2008
Northern Ireland Water has completed work on an £8 million investment programme for the Moira area. A major part of the investment is the new distribution link - the Moira Trunk Main - that runs from Maghaberry reservoir to Lurgan. The 13 km stretch of mains will improve and upgrade the water su
13/08/2008
Tyrone-based Carmac Waste Handling Systems, a specialist in the design and manufacture of recycling machinery, has won substantial contracts in Great Britain and North America with help from Invest Northern Ireland. The Carrickmore company has provided all the systems for a new state-of-the-art rec
13/08/2008
Mourners from across Northern Ireland who have loved ones buried at Belfast City Cemetery are being invited along to a special Open Day this Sunday. The visitors' day is being held for the public to come along and perhaps search for old family graves - long since left unvisited - with the help of c
12/08/2008
The average Irish house price dropped by 9.7% during the 12 months leading up to June, according to the latest market figures. The Permanent TSB/ESRI house price index showed 0.2% accelerated fall between May and June 2008. The 12 months to May reported a 9.5% decline. Industry insiders have
12/08/2008
An English pipe fitter has been awarded €20,000 in compensation after an Equality Tribunal ruled he had suffered racial abuse within his Irish workplace. The man, who wanted to remain anonymous, was working for an engineering firm, at a Dublin building site, when fellow workers bombarded him with
12/08/2008
Northern Ireland Water's £16 million North Down Strategic Trunk Main project has been successfully completed, and can now deliver up to 55 million litres of treated water each day to thousands of customers in North Down, Ards and the Greater Belfast areas, enough drinking water to fill 21 Olympic si
12/08/2008
Despite choppy economic conditions Dublin Port managed to have one of its most successful 12 months last year. And strong passenger numbers and trading figures are expected to continue for the rest of this year amid growing fears of a recession. The port handled in excess of 30 million tons, la
12/08/2008
South Dublin Council has said it is in the process of preparing the county's first Heritage Plan, with support from the Heritage Council. Aspects of heritage in South Dublin County include the natural environment, architecture, archaeology, and cultural inheritance. A Council spokesperson said:
12/08/2008
Plans to improve access and movement in and around Antrim town centre have been devised by the Roads Service. An Accessibility Sub-Group, set up by Antrim Borough Council, has been working with various government agencies and local traders to address the issue. Following consultation with Roads
12/08/2008
Invest Northern Ireland has helped a Lurgan-based firm save £335,000 through a successful programme of continuous improvement aimed at cutting energy and lead time costs. Salmor Industries manufactures a range of products including manhole frames, cable protection, and steel and concrete-filled cov
12/08/2008
A new 'supported' housing facility for elderly care in the Downpatrick area will help to fill the gap left when the existing St John's residential care home closes down. NI Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has announced his plans for the future of care facilities for elderly people in the area. H
12/08/2008
A County Fermanagh man has been fined over £2,000 for three charges relating to waste offences. William Chambers, aged 58, of Newbridge Road, Drumguiff, Lisnaskea, was fined a total of £2,250 plus £28 costs at Enniskillen Magistrates' Court yesterday (11 August 2008) after pleading guilty to three
12/08/2008
Craigavon Borough Council's building maintenance crew came out in force last week to cleanse the Annaloiste Road in Lurgan. The road has suffered from illegal fly tipping in the past and the last few summer months have proved to be no exception. The latest incident from last week included black r
11/08/2008
Northern Ireland Roads Minister Conor Murphy has announced the preferred route for the proposed £52 million dualling of the A26 Frosses Road between Glarryford and the A44 Drones Road junction. The preferred route is an on-line improvement of the existing single carriageway road to dual carriageway
11/08/2008
Irish building activity felt another sharp decline last month, which led to record job losses, according to statistics published today. Figures provided by the Ulster Bank PMI showed a fourteenth consecutive fall in the market, with a 31.4 reading recorded for July. There has been little fluctu
11/08/2008
Government funded regeneration schemes, throughout Northern Ireland, have been cast in serious doubt, as the construction industry continues to battle one of the worst summers it has experienced in years. The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has also warned thousands of building jobs rema
11/08/2008
A massive clean-up operation is underway on Dublin's main road links after weekend flash floods. The worst affected areas were in the north of the city. The floodwater has almost subsided, according to Gardai, who have reopened Blanchardstown's N3 and the M1 at Shantalle Bridge. Met Éireann h
11/08/2008
Major redevelopment work has commenced near Dublin airport and is expected to cause travel disruption for a 100-metre stretch. Traffic has been reduced to one lane; with a stop go system installed for the duration of the works. The work is being carried out to facilitate ongoing development in and
11/08/2008
More than 70 jobs are to be axed at a Co Offaly timber window and doors manufacturer, it has been announced. Danish firm Rationel, will close its Edenderry plant in November, resulting in the loss of 71 jobs. The company - owned by the Denmark-based Rationel Vinduer A/S - will continue to develop
11/08/2008
A new Greenpeace report has illustrated how the construction industry can have a positive influence on the management practices in forests around the world. The report, entitled 'Setting a new standard: alternatives to unsustainable plywood in the UK construction industry', is a practical guide for
11/08/2008
The County Donegal Heritage Office has launched the 'Heritage Towns of County Donegal' brochure. Leading conservation architect and author Patrick Shaffrey, who has undertaken detailed research on the architectural heritage of Irish towns, officially unveiled the publication. Ballyshannon histori
11/08/2008
Summer (ordinarily) offers long sunny days with hot climates, which makes it the perfect weather for outdoor gigs, and perhaps less obviously - solar power. A Wicklow-based firm spotted the potential of mixing both, and brought its services to the Castlepalooza music festival earlier this month
11/08/2008
Young people from the Waterside's Tullyally estate in Londonderry have been taking part in an environmental clean up campaign in their estate. The clean up is part of a summer scheme for the young people in the area. The Tullyally and District Development Group are running the scheme in conjuncti
08/08/2008
A regeneration scheme on the site of a former Newtownabbey primary school could commence as early as next year, the government has confirmed. The Ballyduff Primary School site will be transformed into social housing, following initially conflicting statements by two government departments. The D
08/08/2008
Bray and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Councils have given the green light to revised proposals for the €2bn mixed-use Bray Town Centre development. The scheme encompasses retail, office and leisure facilities, based in a prime town centre location. The complex's revised plans also incorporates sea fro
08/08/2008
The number of Northern Ireland people finding it impossible to make mortgage repayments has seen a sharp rise. During April and June this year 929 writs and summonses were issued, the Court Service has confirmed. Today's figures are almost double the amount for the same period in 2007. This i
08/08/2008
NI Housing Executive boss Paddy McIntyre has launched the organisation's first Annual Report of its Rural Action Plan. The Chief Executive said: "We set out our revised rural strategy last year following extensive public consultation. "This Report highlights the progress made to date as well as
08/08/2008
A North Dublin housing estate, which had been mooted for redevelopment, has experienced an upsurge crime and anti-social behaviour. This week Gardai were called to a serious disturbance at O'Devaney Gardens, prompting local representative to hold an urgent meeting with police. Three people were
08/08/2008
Scientists at the University of Ulster have designed revolutionary septic tank technology, which could reduce the environmental risk posed by overflows and spills. The Tank-Hawk is expected to become a lucrative system, amid growing and increasingly hazardous incidents occurring across Northern
08/08/2008
Much-needed social housing could be on the way for Ballyclare, after the Northern Ireland Housing Executive pledged to look closely at the issue. There are currently around 185 people on the town's housing waiting list, with 112 of these in 'Housing Stress'. Annually, a mere 43 homes are alloca
08/08/2008
Economy Minister Arlene Foster has officially launched the £1.9 million Northern Ireland Broadband Fund. The fund will offer financial support to businesses undertaking technology trials, which offer opportunities for the future commercial rollout of high-speed broadband services.
08/08/2008
Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, has announced a further years funding of £250,000 for the 'Laganside Events Grant' scheme. This funding stream by the Department for Social Development makes a major contribution to supporting arts and cultural activities in the Cathedral Quarter area
08/08/2008
As more and more construction workers are pulled back to rural areas to undertake farm labour, the NI Agriculture Minister has reaffirmed her commitment to the Rural Development Plan. Michelle Gildernew visited this week's County Fermanagh Farming Society's Annual Agricultural Show, the last show
08/08/2008
Irish motorists have been warned to expect considerable traffic disruption on and around the M50 this weekend, caused by ongoing upgrading works. The N7 inbound between the Monastery Lane junction and the M50 overbridge will be reduced to one lane from 10am on Friday morning until 8pm on Sunday nig
07/08/2008
The body representing Irish builders has signalled a downturn in expected housing completions for 2009, the first time this year the organisation has amended figures. The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has reduced output forecasts, for the 12 months ending in 2009, by around 19%. This co
07/08/2008
There has been a 2.7-point fall in construction activity in Northern Ireland during the last quarter, according to the government's latest construction industry update. This dip has resulted in £15million worth of work being wiped from the industry. The Central Survey Unit of the Northern Irelan
07/08/2008
NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has announced a funding boost of £165,000 towards the development of retail and living space on Strabane's derelict Lower Main Street, which will create 15 new jobs in the area. The Minister said: "These improvements will be a boost for Straba
07/08/2008
The repercussions of the housing market slowdown have struck again, with Northern Ireland quarrying firms warning of a substantial loss of jobs in their sector. The Quarry Products Association has suggested around 700 jobs could go this year as the economic slump hits builders' suppliers. Almost
07/08/2008
A €435,000 funding boost has been announced for Donegal's Inisboffin Island pier. An additional grant of €145,000 will be provided, for improvement works, by Donegal County Council. A total of €580,000 will be invested into the redevelopment scheme, which will see the end of the current pier bein
07/08/2008
The Northern Ireland Sports Minister has given strong indication that his decision on the proposed Maze multi-purpose stadium could be delivered in a matter of weeks. Minister Gregory Campbell addressed a gathering of Linfield Football Club delegates at Stormont, earlier this week. At the recept
07/08/2008
The Irish Housing Minister has signalled the end of "Dickensian" style living conditions, which could sound the knelling bell for manky bedsits up and down the country. The preferred accommodation of broke students, struggling artists and frustrated writers, bedsits have formed the backbone of aff
07/08/2008
The Northern Ireland roads authority has warned drivers that car clamping and removals has started in the enforcement of unpaid parking tickets. The operation will initially target vehicles owned by drivers who have amassed at least three unpaid parking tickets. Simon Richardson, DRD Roads Service
07/08/2008
This image of the earth, stripped bare of plants, soils, water and man-made structures, is the result of the world's biggest ever geological mapping project. Earth and computer scientists from 79 nations, have worked together on OneGeology, a global project to produce the first digita
07/08/2008
A number of redeveloped Derry apartments have been left in ruins after being struck by an early morning blaze yesterday. The newly renovated homes are believed to have been the victim of an arson attack. Fire crew battled with the fire at the four-story building on Crawford Street after midnight
06/08/2008
The construction sector has received more bleak news with the announcement that activity has contracted for the fifth consecutive month. Figures from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) have indicated house-building work has sustained the worst blow. This sector of the market
06/08/2008
The Irish Transport Minister has slashed €13 million from the budget allocated for infrastructural improvements at regional airports. Noel Dempsey's latest announcement is expected to deliver another blow to the aviation industry, which is already battling rising fuel costs, environmental penaltie
06/08/2008
Belfast has been 'put in the shade' by the largest crane to ever be erected in the city. Towering above the city centre skyline, the 106-metre structure was installed last week, to help construct the capital's tallest building. Raising the massive crane took almost three day to complete. Work o
06/08/2008
Irish Transport Minister Noel Dempsey has officially opened a new Dublin rail link that will carry Park West passengers to the city centre in around six minutes. The Park West station is the latest phase in the Kildare Route Project. The new station will be served by Kildare commuter trains, offe
06/08/2008
A £1.2m wind turbine generator is to be erected this week at the University of Ulster's Coleraine campus, as part of a 'landmark' development. It will be built on a site adjacent to the playing fields at the north east side of the campus. The wind turbine generator has been supplied by German manu
06/08/2008
NI Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has visited Enniskillen to view the exciting developments under way to improve and modernise health provision throughout the southwest. During his visit to the Western Health and Social Care Trust, the Minister visited two newly refurbished theatres at Erne Hos
06/08/2008
A County Down firm has stepped-in to help investors, struggling to shift property, make their developments more appealing. Newtownards-based House Doctor officially opened yesterday, and aims to offer clients a range of services that will help them transfer properties quicker. The firm combines
06/08/2008
NI Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has met with the architects employed to design the Middletown Centre for Autism in Co Armagh. Speaking after the meeting, the minister said: "Middletown is a very exciting project. It will offer state-of-the-art facilities for children living wi
06/08/2008
Belfast-based Crane Stockham Valve Ltd has announced an investment of £600,000 in an extensive programme of staff training and development, supported by Invest Northern Ireland. Crane Stockham Valve specialises in the manufacture of valves for the gas, water and industrial processing industries. I
06/08/2008
New Mossley residents in Newtownabbey have been invited to a 'Meet the Neighbours' event this weekend. During Saturday's event representatives of various nationalities and organisations will join together to provide entertainment and information. The event has been organised by the Northern Irela
05/08/2008
A 7.2% drop in capital values for commercial properties has been reported for the three months ending June 2008. The decline was revealed in the latest property index, which illustrates a growth in the pace of the continuing dip. Market indicators have suggested the sudden fall has been the res
05/08/2008
A state agency has called on the Irish government to provide more support to first time buyers. The Affordable Homes Partnership said first time buyers particularly need help with growing deposit percentages. Many mortgage providers no longer offer 100% loans, meaning most new buyers can expect t
05/08/2008
A leading flooring supplies firm today gave the strongest indication yet that the housing market slump is beginning to have a knock-on effect on complementary goods. Floor coverings giant Carpetright announced a 15.4% drop in its UK and Irish sales year-on-year with 2007. After a demanding first
05/08/2008
Plans for a £10 million regeneration scheme, on the outskirts of Carryduff, County Down, have been submitted to the planning authority. A discount food store, six retail units, 48 apartments and a 268 capacity car park have been proposed for the Comber Road site. Developers Vico Properties has sa
05/08/2008
A former Dublin courthouse is to be transformed into a legal history museum and educational centre, the Irish Court Service has revealed. The 19th century Kilmainham courthouse will undergo extensive renovations and conversion work to help "demystify" the justice system for school children. The
05/08/2008
A new government report has insisted the Northern Ireland economy is well placed to "weather the storm", despite challenges facing the business community. The report, published by the Department of Trade and Enterprise, suggested NI businesses trading in US and European markets are feeling the im
05/08/2008
Funding worth £4.9 million for the Carbon Trust, which would help local businesses cut their energy costs, has been announced by NI Economy Minister Arlene Foster. The Carbon Trust, a UK-wide not-for-profit organisation, funded locally by Invest NI, works to help companies reduce carbon emissions a
05/08/2008
A leading UK property body has outlined the environmental benefits of high-rise buildings, as the NI Environment Department prepares to announce tall building guidelines in the Province. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has said higher buildings are vital in combating Ulster's carbon f
05/08/2008
Trevor Corscadden (48) of Castleroe Road, Coleraine, was fined a total of £2,000 at Coleraine Magistrates' court today for breaches of waste management legislation. Officers from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency investigated a site owned by Mr Corscadden at Castleroe Road, Col
05/08/2008
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has worked with children from the New Model Farm estate in Downpatrick and Ecoseeds Ltd to help plant wildflowers in an area of grassland in the estate. The children, who are members of the St. Dympna's Youth Group, carried out the planting under the supervisi
04/08/2008
The NI Employment Minister has smashed the barrier for over 25's wanting to gain an apprenticeship. From next month the age limit on new apprentices will be lifted. Currently schemes are only open to those aged between 16 and 24, now individuals over this age can train for a trade in the Province
04/08/2008
Clare County Council and Galway-based Ward and Burke Construction Ltd have signed a contract to develop recreational facilities and the remediation of a closed landfill site at Doora, near Ennis. The €1.26m Doora Landfill Remediation Contract will remediate the closed landfill, in accordance with t
04/08/2008
Anti-pylon protesters are expected to gather from across Monaghan, Cavan and Meath today, to vent opposition to planned underground, high-power electric cables. The rally, organised by the North East Pylon Pressure group, is set to include hundreds of tractors, causing traffic disruption in the Me
04/08/2008
Belfast City Council has warned of traffic restrictions at the junction of the Upper Springfield Road and Whiterock Road over forthcoming weekends. Improvements at the junction, part of the council's 'Renewing the Routes' programme, are nearing completion. The surrounding pavements have already be
04/08/2008
Gardaí have spent €11 million on overtime wages while trying to suppress protests over the controversial Shell gas pipeline. Reports on Monday revealed the €11 million bill for garda overtime payments as protestors at the Corrib gas site. Last week, 11 men and one woman were held over public orde
04/08/2008
NECI has become the largest representative body for Irish electrical contractors. Following a number of Dublin county meetings, support for the newly formed NECI (National Electrical Contractors Ireland) has now exceeded the combined totals of all other Irish Electrical Trade Associations. The c
04/08/2008
Irish sports facilities have received a major funding boost from the government. Minister for Labour Affairs, Billy Kelleher, said he was delighted Cork received a grant allocation of €4.485 million under the 2008 Sports Capital Programme. Under the 2008 Programme €50 million has been allocated
04/08/2008
James Tanner (58), Dunboe Road, Castlerock was fined a total of £800 at North Antrim Magistrates' court on Friday 1 August for breaches of waste management legislation. On 18 August 2005, in response to complaints of unauthorised waste disposal, officers from the Environment and Heri
04/08/2008
Limerick County Council has issued a public drinking water notice affecting hundreds of customers in Newcastle West and its environs. The boil notice has been issued following the serious flooding experienced by the West Limerick town as a result of recent heavy rainfall. The council confirmed 93m
04/08/2008
The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, with responsibility for fisheries, Tony Killeen, has designated a number of additional ports for the landing of Hake and Monkfish. Minister Killeen said the designations were following a request from the Federation of Irish Fishermen (FIF) and
01/08/2008
Crippling debts caused by the unprecedented housing market crash are thrusting leading Northern Ireland developers to the brink of bankruptcy. The stagnant market has left several top property developers near the point of ruin. The sheer scale and speed of the decline has taken many unawares.
01/08/2008
The Irish Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has taken steps to prepare builders for dealing with insolvency. The Federation held a breakfast conference last month, offering firms to hear financial advice from a leading accountancy firm. Builders have suffered worst from the property market s
01/08/2008
The Irish government has pledged to alleviate fuel poverty, after the announcement of another energy price hike. Low-income families look set to feel the biggest impact of ESB's 17.5% price increase, disclosed today. The electricity supplier has attributed the two-monthly cost upsurge of €30 to
01/08/2008
Allied Irish Bank has offered financial support to troubled housebuilders, by "rolling up" interest payments. The bank's announcement comes as its risky loan 'watchlist' tips €10.2billion. Residential developers' loans reportedly make up part of the list's €3.5b six-month increase. AIB has sa
01/08/2008
Irish house loans dipped by 40% during the first quarter of this year, according to new statistics. Over 15,300 home loans, totalling €4.4b, were issued in the first three months of 2008. However, the figures, released in the Housing Statistics Bulletin, showed a 37.6% decrease in volume, with v
01/08/2008
Margaret Ritchie has named the contractor appointed for an ambitious scheme to improve Derry city centre. FP McCann Ltd is to undertake the £7 million project, aimed at transforming the city's Guildhall Square and Waterloo Place. The firm has already been behind similar schemes in Belfast city ce
01/08/2008
NI Energy Minister Arlene Foster has met with the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation (NIAUR) to examine key energy issues. The Minister met the NIAUR Chairman, Peter Matthews and Chief Executive, Iain Osborne to discuss future energy policy for Northern Ireland. Among the issues di
01/08/2008
The Roads Service has announced plans to start 1.5km of resurfacing work on the A12 Westlink. The resurfacing is just outside the boundary of the current upgrade works, and is between York Street and Divis Street. The works will run from 2 to 25 August 2008. Mark McPeak, Roads Ser
01/08/2008
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued a fresh plea to drivers, on the eve of the August Bank Holiday Weekend. The campaign group has warned of the dangers of driver fatigue. Accidents caused by tired drivers are three times more likely to result in fatalities or serious injury, according to
01/08/2008
Translink has introduced two new mini buses to operate the shuttle services at the Giant's Causeway between the visitors centre and the stones. The modern low floor design offers easy access for all with 27 seats on board and room for a passenger in a wheelchair. The first of their type in Irela
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