Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for February 2009
27/02/2009
This year has been described as a momentous period for Belfast with ₤500m worth of developments unveiled, including a number of landmark buildings opening their doors to the public again following extensive refurbishments. Today, the Ulster Hall will reopen to audiences, marking the start of
27/02/2009
The National Energy Training Academy (NETA) has welcomed Energy Minister Eamon Ryan's announcement of measures to encourage the on-site generation of electricity in homes and farms across Ireland - which could provide major opportunities for the construction sector. Mayo-based NETA said the ability
27/02/2009
A revolutionary new housing extension has been delivered to a Housing Executive tenant in the Ward Avenue area of Lisburn. Rose Beattie, who is unable to use her upstairs bathroom and bedroom, took delivery of a 'Pod' - a pre-built room that attaches on to the rear of an existing house. Mrs Beatti
27/02/2009
Irish Transport Minister Noel Dempsey has welcomed progress on the Limerick Tunnel project, after holding a briefing with the developers. The scheme is due for completion in 2010 and is expected to greatly enhance transport links in the region. Mr Dempsey said all indications suggested the tunne
27/02/2009
Regeneration experts will be drafted in to formulate a masterplan for the city of Lisburn, it has been announced. Launching the project, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said the eventual plan would aim to transform the social and economic make-up of the city centre. Under the plan,
27/02/2009
Údarás na Gaeltachta Chief Executive Pádraig Ó hAoláin has officially opened Gorlann na Gaeilge, at Comharchumann Shailearna Teo. Gorlann na Gaeilge is a newly renovated building consisting of office space, a computer room and a kitchen and is situated behind the co-op's offices in Indreabhán. Th
27/02/2009
Growth in residential mortgage up-take in Ireland has hit its lowest level in almost a quarter of a centre, the Central Bank has revealed. The annual rate fell to 5.4% - a 23 year low - despite an increase in mortgage lending during January. Central Bank officials said the net increase in residen
27/02/2009
A £70m plan for a new Stena Line port linking Scotland to Northern Ireland has been recommended to receive council approval. The ferry operator wants to move the Irish Sea services out of Stranraer into a new terminal at Old House Point just north of Cairnryan on Loch Ryan. The new port would redu
27/02/2009
Dublin Airport Authority chairman Gary McGann has resigned from his high profile post, it has been announced. Transport Minister Noel Dempsey acknowledged Mr McGann's contribution to the organisation. He said: "It is with regret that I have accepted Gary McGann's offer to resign from the board of
26/02/2009
The winners of the competition to design the Metro West Liffey Valley Bridge have been announced. Buro Happold and Explorations Architecture scooped the prize, which was administered by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland, on behalf of the Railway Procurement Agency. Frank Allen, Chi
26/02/2009
Thirty seven flats in Derry, which were built more than 30 years ago, have been earmarked for demolition, as part of a regeneration scheme in the area. The flattening of the site is the first phase of a Housing Executive project aimed at improving living standards in the residential area. Area M
26/02/2009
Irish Energy Minister Eamon Ryan has unveiled measures to help homeowners generate their own wind-powered electricity. The scheme is designed to encourage landowners and householders to install wind turbines by offering financial incentives. If successful, members of the public could be offered
26/02/2009
South Down MLA Caitríona Ruane has welcomed the beginning of a consultation process into the regeneration of Downpatrick's town centre. Executive Minister Ms Ruane said: "Sinn Féin would welcome the beginning of a consultation process into the regeneration of Downpatrick’s town centre." The MLA ci
26/02/2009
Builders and homeowners in the Dundalk area have been urged to make their interest in the state's National Insulation Programme for Economic Recovery known. Energy Minister Eamon Ryan called on all concerned parties to register their interest in the package, which has been designed to stimulate the
26/02/2009
Plans are currently being finalised for the completion of one of the last parts of a Co Antrim walkway and cycle facility. The existing Newtownabbey Way walking and cycling route is soon to benefit from the addition of the last two phases of what is being seen as an ambitious project. This will in
26/02/2009
Plans for a one day conference focusing on energy efficiency in historic buildings have been announced by the Irish Georgian Society. The society is to host the event, in partnership with Department of the Environment, at Dublin Castle on 10 March. The government has stressed it commitment to redu
26/02/2009
In day of continuing pressure for the Government over the economic crisis, a large building firm has announced a slew of job cuts. The Wolseley Building Plumbing and building supplies group has announced it is to lay off 180 staff nationwide and close four stores around the country. Two of the sh
26/02/2009
Irish Communities Minister John Curran has officially opened a new addiction clinic in Dublin. Ashleigh House is the first ever facility in Ireland specifically designed for women. The residential centre allows patients to seek treatment while also providing accommodation for their children. "
26/02/2009
A new high-quality CCTV system has been installed at Coleraine train station. Translink said it hopes the cameras will serve as a powerful deterrent to prevent level crossing abuse. When incidents do occur, footage can be used to investigate, apprehend and prosecute offenders where possible. Fr
25/02/2009
An Irish building group has launched its defence in court, after facing claims the infill it supplied to hundreds of Dublin homes was defective. The Lagan Group's counsel, giving its opening case, denied allegation that the material had swelled or caused heave. Speaking at the Commercial Court, H
25/02/2009
A public realm improvement scheme underway in Coleraine has received an additional financial boost of £223,000, it has been revealed. Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie said the extra money will allow the project to be extended to New Row, alongside the work already completed in Church Street
25/02/2009
Sligo Borough Council has announced plans to carry out extensive repair and upgrade works on a number of bridges in the region. Improvements are proposed for the Markievicz Bridge - also known as New Bridge - at Kempten Promenade in Rathquarter, and at Kennedy Parade in Abbeyquarter North and in t
25/02/2009
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has just completed extensive modernisation works on 47 homes in Magherafelt. The properties, located at Mullaghboy Crescent, Moyola Avenue, Drumderg Cottages and Hughes Villas, have had a range of work carried out on them. This included the replacement of ki
25/02/2009
Local authority housing built in Wicklow slumped by almost 30% last year, it has been revealed. Earlier this month State Housing Minister Michael Finneran said around 51,000 new council houses and apartments had been built across Ireland in 2008. However, just 1,219 of these were built in Wicklo
25/02/2009
Irish-based Walls Construction has been awarded a 12-month building project at a Cork computer institute. This highly sought after project will see a new Research and Innovation Centre built at Cork Institute of Technology, which will adjoin the existing 'Rubicon Centre'. A spokesman for Walls sa
25/02/2009
A joint venture agreement between Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Council and two private firms, to develop a 64 acres site in the county, has been extended until the end of June this year. The council has been a minority partner in the scheme since 1997. Two companies, which form part of the Dunloe Ewart G
25/02/2009
A major breakthrough has been achieved with news of an order with an international manufacturer for an NI energy-saver solar device. A Belfast plumbing and heating company, Willis Renewable Energy said its Solasyphon water heating system, which was launched last year, is now to be supplied to Apric
25/02/2009
Dublin Lord Mayor Eibhlin Byrne has officially opened the newly refurbished Blessington Street Park playground, in the Broadstone area of the city. "I am delighted to be opening this wonderfully refurbished and modernised playground in Blessington Street Park," said Ms Byrne. "The new facilitie
25/02/2009
A recent indoor swimming pool project in the Isle of Man utilised several Freefoam products to create an attractive, durable and low maintenance installation, it has been revealed. Freefoam Plastics, the market leader in environmentally friendly and UV protected roofline and rainwater products, man
24/02/2009
Average house prices in Northern Ireland fell sharply in the final quarter of 2008, according to the latest University of Ulster house price index - but there are some signs more buyers are now entering the market. The survey showed prices had dropped by more than 28% over the full course of the y
24/02/2009
A €3.6m boost to County Clare's Rural Water Programme has been lauded as a complementary component to ongoing efforts to improve supply in the region. Local TD Tony Killeen said the grant would fund a wide range of schemes all over the county, which have been earmarked for improvement works under
24/02/2009
A half a million pound upgrade programme has kicked off in Strabane, aimed at improving kitchen facilities for social housing tenants. One hundred and twenty-three homes in the Carlton drive area are set to benefit from the scheme, which will see modern kitchens installed. Residents will be able
24/02/2009
Ireland is being discriminated against by the EU common policy for rail, road, inland waterway, maritime and air transport. That's according to the Mayor of Clare Madeleine Taylor Quinn, who told members of the European Parliament's Transport and Tourism Committee policy must take into account Ire
24/02/2009
A Ballymena concrete firm had its sights set on Europe while on a recent visit to the Netherlands with NI Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster. Moore Concrete Products Ltd, which supplies precast concrete products to the agricultural, civil and building industries, sought to use the Invest NI trade m
24/02/2009
Project management firm PM Group has appointed former CRH boss Liam O'Mahony to its board. The engineering and architectural design giant has welcomed Mr O'Mahony, who recently retired from his high profile Chief Executive role at CRH, as a Non-Executive Director. Mr O'Mahony remains chairman of
24/02/2009
Consultants have been appointed to develop the masterplan for Downpatrick town centre, the Regeneration Minister has revealed. Margaret Ritchie said the consultants will advise on transportation, access and parking changes for the town. They will also identify key town centre sites and make reco
24/02/2009
The historic Ulster Hall, which first opened its doors in 1859 and was designed by William J Barre, the man whose architectural portfolio also includes Belfast's landmark Albert Clock is ready to rock again. An extensive refit and redecoration has been carried out on the Bedford Street building ove
24/02/2009
A catalogue highlighting some of Northern Ireland's most vulnerable historic buildings has been released. The eighth Built Heritage at Risk in Northern Ireland (BHARNI) catalogue was launched by NI Environment Minister Sammy Wilson in the atmospheric setting of the former Crumlin Road Gaol. The ca
24/02/2009
Trend has launched two types of extra long router cutters designed specifically for the new style of hollow board honeycomb kitchen worktops. The honeycomb style worktop is 60mm deep and is designed to be light in weight but have the required depth for a kitchen worktop. The unique rigid honeyco
23/02/2009
The first sod has been turned at the site of a new €2.5m Cavan children's health centre. TD Brendan Smith marked the start of works at the Children's Services Centre in Rathcorrick, which has been backed by Enable Ireland and the HSE, and is supported by Pobal. This state-of-the-art building will
23/02/2009
Work has commenced on a new £2.6m Fermanagh primary school facility. The controlled educational building will be located in the town of Lisbellaw. Construction work will take place on the site of the existing school and is expected to be complete by the summer of next year. The new building will
23/02/2009
There were angry scenes outside the Labour Court in Dublin on Friday, when Construction Industry Federation members renewed their calls for a 10% pay cut in the sector - a move that could affect up to 190,000 workers. More than a dozen protesters vented their opposition at CIF Director General To
23/02/2009
The second phase of an environmental improvement project has been completed on a Lurgan housing estate. The work at Ardown was undertaken by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and saw £1.5m invested in the area. Phase one cost £950,000 and benefited 71 homes. The more recent phase two receiv
23/02/2009
Irish Environment Minister John Gormley has launched his department's Architectural Heritage Survey of north Cork and the associated book, An Introduction to the Architectural Heritage of North Cork, the twentieth volume to be published in the Architectural Inventory series. The survey records 1,58
23/02/2009
Leading manufacturer of concrete products, Acheson and Glover, has donated £5,000 to the Samaritans. The donation is to support the ongoing initiatives and charitable work of the Samaritans in Northern Ireland. Funds will be used for upcoming projects in particular a new SMS text messaging emoti
23/02/2009
Ireland will follow Scotland's lead in the development of marine renewables, it has been agreed at a British Irish Council meeting. The Scottish government will focus on maximising growth in marine energy with the council's backing. British government officials will be responsible for providing
23/02/2009
Environmentally friendly structures across Northern Ireland have been lauded by NI Minister Sammy Wilson. Mr Wilson, speaking at a Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) / Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) awards ceremony at Stormont, said: "It is a proud moment to be able to celebrat
23/02/2009
Following the success of the original Trend Routabout, the unique floor access routing template, Trend has now launched a smaller diameter version, ideal for plumbers and electricians. A 108mm diameter opening can be cut in the floor, allowing access to junction boxes or cables and is ideal for mak
20/02/2009
The body representing Irish builders is in the Labour Court today to demand a 10% pay cut in the industry. According to the Construction Industry Federation, a cut in wages is necessary to retain competitiveness in the industry and secure jobs. Federation bosses have said 7,000 jobs are being los
20/02/2009
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has launched a scheme to install gas heating in 88 homes in the Movilla area of Newtownards. District Manager Owen Brady said the NIHE was investing over £430,000 through the provision of new heating systems in the area. "We are replacing open fires, room h
20/02/2009
Irish Housing Minister Michael Finneran has told a meeting of town councillors that his department's social housing investment initiative can assist both social and economic objectives during the recession. The Minister made his comments when delivering the opening address at the Spring Conference
20/02/2009
The credit crunch has left a major Stormont initiative floundering with the planned sell-off of civil service buildings halted. The private finance initiative would have led to 65 separate government premises being taken over by the private sector. Called Workplace 2010 and designed to support ref
20/02/2009
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has visited the site of a new £3.7m Social Education Centre and a new £2.3m Children’s Home in Newry. The two separate new units - located on the same site - are scheduled to be completed in July 2010. The facilities will provide day care services for adults with
20/02/2009
A Co Londonderry quarry owner has been fined for pollution offences. Patrick Heaney of Banagher Road, Dungiven, pleaded guilty to the offence at Limavady Magistrates' Court, and fined £300 plus £97 court costs plus analysis costs of £115.30. The court heard that on 31 January 2008, an officer fro
20/02/2009
Omega Air boss Ulick McEvaddy has told Irish business leaders going nuclear is the only 'green' option if the country is to meet carbon emission targets. Speaker at ACCA Ireland's Business Leaders Forum on Thursday the aviation chief executive outlined the case for nuclear energy in Ireland. He
20/02/2009
Contracts have been awarded to create mobile broadband hot spots in Enniskillen, Antrim, Ballycastle and Newcastle, the Northern Ireland Enterprise Department has announced. 'Hot spots' are buildings or locations where it is possible to access the internet without the need for cables or wires. The
20/02/2009
This year will see Graepel Perforators & Weavers Ltd celebrate 50 years of business in the UK and Ireland. Throughout the past two years Graepel has invested substantial money in the company to secure its place within the industry. Investments have been made in new software, new perforating and fa
20/02/2009
Devilink is a new and innovative heating control system available from DEVI. The system consists of a centrally placed main unit used to control sensors and thermostats throughout your home. This means that you can control the temperatures of your entire home from one place. Control of the tem
19/02/2009
Irish Housing Minister Michael Finneran has said over 50,000 new social homes were delivered by the state last year. In total, Mr Finneran said 51,724 houses and apartments were completed in 2008. "While there is an easing off in housing activity and recognising the difficulties currently facing t
19/02/2009
An Ulster concrete flooring firm has been fined at court for breaching Health and Safety regulations. Representative for Concrete Flooring Systems Ltd appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court on 9 February 2009, facing two charges of code breaches. The action was brought by the Health and Saf
19/02/2009
Over €250m is to be spent on transforming a former Wexford power plant into a a natural gas fired combined-cycle gas turbine, it has been revealed. The Great Island Power Plant had previously been earmarked as an incinerator, but this proposal was turned down by planners. The natural gas project i
19/02/2009
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has visited the site of a new £7.5m medicines manufacturing facility, being built in the grounds of the Royal Group of Hospitals in Belfast. Construction of Victoria Pharmaceuticals is scheduled to complete later this year. The facility will provide specialist me
19/02/2009
Draperstown-based Heron Bros. has been awarded the contract to build a new multi-purpose civic centre in Limavady. The development will be constructed at the site of the former Town Hall, on Main Street in the town, retaining the original facade of the old structure. A meeting has been set up be
19/02/2009
The Housing Executive has 'cooked-up' some good news for tenants living in Newtownards' Scrabo Estate. One hundred and forty-seven homes are to have their kitchens up-graded in a scheme worth around £890,000. District Manager Owen Brady said: "I am delighted that we are able to proceed with this
19/02/2009
Two Sinn Féin assembly members have welcomed a public inquiry into plans for a John Lewis site in Northern Ireland. West Belfast and Lagan Valley MLAs Jennifer McCann and Paul Butler said the proposed development at Sprucefield would create a much needed boost during the economic recession. "We
19/02/2009
Environmental improvement works have commenced on an Omagh housing estate. The works - worth around £175,000 - are set to enhance the Strathroy area, and have been backed by Social Development Minister Margaret Richie. Ms Ritchie welcomed the start of works on an area of open space in the estate
18/02/2009
Retailer John Lewis has welcomed the Environment Minister's approval for a public inquiry into the chain's plans for a £150m Ulster site. The scheme, which has the potential to create thousands of local jobs - including many in the construction sector - is proposed for the Sprucefield shopping com
18/02/2009
Irish Housing Minister Michael Finneran has opened a new multi-million euro project undertaken by Saint Michael's House voluntary housing group at Santry, Dublin 9. The Department of Environment contributed €1.8m towards the nine units, designed for people with special needs. Minister Finneran sa
18/02/2009
A £7m package has been unveiled to tackle deprivation in communities across Belfast. Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said the funding would go towards health projects, education and training for young people. She said: "I believe our communities, particularly our most disadvantaged c
18/02/2009
The shortage of people with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) backgrounds entering the Northern Ireland workforce will be the focus of an event hosted by the Northern Ireland Assembly today. The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) will be the exclusive engineering
18/02/2009
A £2.6m upgrade to the Dromara Wastewater Treatment Works is progressing well, NI Water has said. When finished the new facility will have the capacity to cater for a forecasted population up to 2030 while meeting the latest Northern Ireland Environment Agency discharge consents and the Urban Waste
18/02/2009
Supermarket chain Lidl has been lambasted for an apparent unauthorised development in Dublin. The German retailer was accused of showing "utter contempt for the planning process" by the Deansgrange Residential Area Action Group. Residents said the "unlawfully constructed" electricity substation,
18/02/2009
Leisure traffic has proved to be a winner for the Port of Belfast. However, figures just released show that while 2008 was the best year ever for Belfast's growing popularity with cruise ships, the recession has been reflected in a substantial drop in cargo - and especially in the construction sect
18/02/2009
Strategic fit-out partners Designflow Spielmann's have moved into new premises in Dublin. The news comes after the two firms agreed a 50/50 merger late last year. Designflow Managing Director Robert Trench said January had been a busy month, which culminated in the two firms signing a lease to t
18/02/2009
Architecture Energy is a vibrant new company specialising in design and energy efficiency in buildings. Its experience spans from major city centre commercial developments to one off houses and extensions. The guiding strategy of the company is to deliver the most energy efficient solutions for i
18/02/2009
Did you know an econstruction products loft access hatch can reduce air leakage, improve thermal performance and help control harmful condensation in your roofspace? Econstruction products ltd have recently announced an addition to their product line - the loft access hatch (Part L) - High perform
17/02/2009
Around £27m is to be invested in Co Down water and wastewater services, it has been announced. NI Water told Down District Council the funding relates to a number of schemes that are already underway or planned to commence within this financial year. The work includes a new £8m Wastewater Treatm
17/02/2009
Irish Enterprise Minister Mary Coughlan has expressed her deep regret at the announcement by SR Technics to close its maintenance operation at Dublin Airport. The Minister said she was aware the workers faced serious difficulties when the company recently lost major contracts. Ms Coughlan met with
17/02/2009
A new Cork Property Website chap.ie (Cork Homes and Properties) has been launched, with the backing of Tom Parlon, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF). Established on behalf of the Cork branch of the CIF, 22 individual building companies have come together under the umbre
17/02/2009
Avocalite.ie, an online retailer of low energy light bulbs and LED bulbs, has unveiled its super bright 40W equivalent GU10 LED. The light output is equivalent to a 40W halogen bulb, but consumes just 2.3W, a significant saving of electricity. The bulb produces a soft white light ideal for home cei
17/02/2009
The pace at which a Carlow development is being built has been described as a "thundering disgrace" by a local councillor. Manor House in Bagenstown has been the subject of much debate within Town Hall. Councillors have now been told by the developer that work will recommence on the site shortly.
17/02/2009
Emergency grant aid has been allocated to St Joseph's Secondary School in Spanish Point, a local TD has revealed. Tony Killeen confirmed the money would go towards roofing work at the west Clare secondary school. Mr Killeen received confirmation of the aid from Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe
17/02/2009
Industrial Nanotech Inc. (Pink Sheets:INTK) has announced the official launch of its Nansulate Insulation and mold resistant coatings in Ireland. The nanotechnology-based coatings provide affordable energy savings and mold protection for residential and commercial buildings, and are becoming a fav
17/02/2009
Preparation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination for the Burren in Co Clare is a key priority for the Irish Environment Department, it has been announced Environment Minister John Gormley is committed to developing a management plan, which would have to be undertaken as part of the nominati
16/02/2009
The body representing Irish builders has entered into "intense" talks with the state regarding funding for infrastructural spending across the country, it has been revealed. The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has called on the government to increased capital expenditure, to help stimulate
16/02/2009
A £1.5m public realm scheme is to commence in Kilkeel later this year, it has been announced. Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie confirmed funding for the project is now in place. Ms Ritchie said: "I have been concerned about the condition of Kilkeel town centre for many years. This major sc
16/02/2009
The urgency of transforming vacant housing stock in the Bray area of Riversdale into affordable homes has yet again been raised by the town council. The number of home earmarked for affordable housing was discussed by concerned councillor John Brady. Mr Brady, addressing council colleagues, said
16/02/2009
An eco-friendly social housing scheme has got underway in County Down. Thirty-four, two-bedroom apartments, boasting a range of energy-saving/green features, are being built by Oaklee Housing Association at Shaftesbury in Bangor. Design plans include photovoltaic roof panels which convert sunlig
16/02/2009
Clare TD Tony Killeen has confirmed that grant aid has been allocated to St. Michael's Community College, Kilmihil to undertake fire safety works. Mr Killeen said he had received confirmation of the allocation from Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe. "I am delighted to be able to confirm the approva
16/02/2009
Over £3m is to be invested by NI Water in the Magherafelt, it has been announced. The investment, announced at the Magherafelt Council meeting last week, relates to a number of schemes that are already underway or planned to commence within this financial year. The work includes the upgrade of Dr
16/02/2009
A massive dormant site in Greystones, once earmarked for industrial use, looks likely to remain vacant for some time yet. The 22-acre space, owned by the Industrial Development Agency (IDA) Ireland, has remained void for more than 20 years. Its future was the focus of a Wicklow County Council las
16/02/2009
Lodge Solutions has chosen to stock Edenex decking for installation in a range of luxury holiday park projects throughout the UK and Ireland, it has been revealed. Edenex is an innovative, wood plastic composite decking system with a range of very attractive features and benefits. It combines
13/02/2009
Two housing developments, designed to accommodate older people in Ballyfermot, have been officially opened by Dublin's Lord Mayor. Eibhlin Byrne welcomed the €20m schemes, located at Claddagh Green, which consist of 79 dwellings comprising one and two bedroom homes. The houses are fully fitted ou
13/02/2009
A Northern Ireland construction firm has been fined more than £65,000 after an employee died on-site almost two years ago. McNicholas Construction Services Limited was found guilty of breaching health and safety legislation at Ballymena Crown Court last week. The case was brought by the Health a
13/02/2009
Dublin City Council has met with the Shannon International River Basin District Advisory Council (ShIRBD) to discuss the need for new water sources to meet the growing demand in the Dublin region over the next seven years. Dublin City Council and its consultants, RPS-Veolia, said a new source cann
13/02/2009
Over £5m is to be invested in the Moyle area to improve water and wastewater services, NI Water has confirmed. The investment, announced at Moyle District Council meeting last month, relates to a number of schemes that are already underway or planned to commence within this financial year. The
13/02/2009
A state of the art playground has been opened in one of Co Clare's fastest-growing population centres. The new facility is the latest infrastructure development to take place in Sixmilebridge, which has grown rapidly since it benefited from a wastewater upgrade over a decade ago. Located on the Sh
13/02/2009
The Stormont Executive has agreed proposals which would ease the impact of continued contributions towards sewerage and water services for businesses and other non-domestic customers in 2009/10. The cost of the proposals to the Executive is £17m. The Executive had previously unanimously agreed th
13/02/2009
FAI President John Delaney and Republic of Ireland Football Manager Giovanni Trapattoni were in Dublin yesterday to unveil a new all-weather multi-sports pitch at St. Teresa's Gardens, Donore Avenue. St Teresa's Gardens Complex is currently undergoing a regeneration process, backed by Dublin City C
13/02/2009
A new piece of public artwork is to boost the historic City of Derry's international architectural and artistic image. Northern Ireland Arts Minister Gregory Campbell has backed the development and has announced the iconic winner of the Foyle Public Art Project which takes the innovative scheme for
13/02/2009
Irish Transport Minister Noel Dempsey has approved arrangements for the holding of a tender process relating to the management of facilities at Dublin airport's second terminal. Mr Dempsey said: "I arranged for a team of consultants - Goodbody Corporate Finance, Matheson Ormsby Prentice and Mott Ma
12/02/2009
Forty-three major school building projects are to go to tender and construction this year, Irish Eduction Minister Batt O'Keeffe has confirmed. The works will include extensions to existing schools and refurbishment schemes. Mr O'Keeffe said: "Five of these school building projects are being re-
12/02/2009
Plans for a landmark £12.5m Kerry exhibition centre have been announced. The striking building is to be constructed on the banks of Kenmare Bay. Contemporary in design, the developers hope the project will become a major tourist attractions and strengthen Ireland's association with world class a
12/02/2009
The body representing Irish builders has gave a cautious welcome to the state's €7bn recapitalisation of two national banks, aimed at stimulating lending in the country. The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has said it will closely monitor whether the scheme frees up working capital for its
12/02/2009
Work on a new £3.4m treatment and assessment unit in Belfast has commenced. Health Minister Michael McGimpsey was on hand to cut the first sod at the site, which is scheduled to open early next year. The facility will provide specialist health and social care for children and young people with l
12/02/2009
Plan are afoot for a new courthouse and police station in the town of Swords, it has been reported. It is believed the Office of Public Works has approached Fingal Council regarding a site at Seatown Road, close to a residential area, school and council staff car park. According to reports, shoul
12/02/2009
Fingal Council has stood by its decision not to cut the price of affordable housing in the area, 400 of which were sold last year. The authority currently offers homes priced between €150,000 and €195,000, aimed at giving first time buyers a foothold on to the property market. However, the coun
12/02/2009
A proposed bypass of Ballykelly to the west of Limavady will be located south of the village, it has been announced. Roads Minister Conor Murphy said: "I am pleased to report that the first key milestone, which is the production of a preliminary options report, including recommendations for a pref
12/02/2009
Over €12,000 worth of funding is to be deployed to improve roads in a part of Drogheda, it has been announced. The funding has been committed by Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey and will be divided between Beaulieu Cross and Newtown Cross. Works will include improvements to road signage and
11/02/2009
The green light for a one billion euro shopping development in Swords will see the outlet become a "major regional centre", it has been claimed. Planning permission has been granted for the third phase of the scheme at Pavilions Shopping Centre, which has been touted as a major step forward for a
11/02/2009
The preferred route for proposed improvements to Buncrana Road in Derry has been announced. Roads Minister Connor Murphy said improvements will be carried out on-line along the entire route between Pennyburn Roundabout and the border. The existing carriageway will be widened on-line to provide tw
11/02/2009
Taoiseach Brian Cowen has officially launched works on the new Luas link to Citywest and Saggart. The Luas line A1 will extend the existing Luas Red Line from Belgard to Saggart and include five new stops, two new substations, a 300 space park and ride facility and eight new trams. The new line i
11/02/2009
Northern Ireland's ability to generate more wave-generated power has been boosted by students at Queen's University. The university and Aquamarine Power Limited, a leading marine energy company, have agreed a new five year research partnership which will develop the next generation hydro-electric
11/02/2009
Irish Trade Minister Mary Coughlan has welcomed the announcement by the Electricity Supply Board that it is to provide training to 400 redundant electrical apprentices. Minister Coughlan said: "This is very goods news for some 400 redundant electrical apprentices who will now have the opportunity t
11/02/2009
Three Dungannon housing estates are to benefit from a £52,000 environmental improvement scheme, the Department for Social Development has announced. The funding will be used to tidy up the areas and will boost proposals to erect two estate markers. The Northern Ireland Housing Executive will imp
11/02/2009
Ireland's largest industrial union has said action on a dramatic scale will be needed to ensure all workers are treated equally during the ensuing economic crisis. SIPTU President Jack O'Connor said a co-ordinated effort would be needed nation wide to ensure fair conditions for both public and pri
11/02/2009
Supermarket chain Tesco is to create 250 jobs in Coleraine after a multi-million pound redevelopment proposal was approved by the town's council. As well as creating 250 jobs in a major expansion, the company says it will provide a number of construction jobs in the short-term. The plan includes a
11/02/2009
Landlords and homeowners across County Clare have been reminded that they must obtain a Building Energy Rating (BER) before placing their homes on the market for sale or rent. Local TD Tony Killeen said the recent extension of the national energy rating system, which advises on the energy efficienc
11/02/2009
A Stormont Executive Minister has admitted that the now scrapped plans to build a multi-sports stadium at the Maze prison site has already cost taxpayers £millions. NI Sports Minister Gregory Campbell said that a total of £3,598,708 was poured in to the scheme during the initial planning stages. I
10/02/2009
A renewable energy group has described the Irish state's €100m national insulation programme as "a drop in the ocean", compared to the funds required to upgrade the local and national housing stock. The Renewable Energy Skills Skillnet (RESS) also warned that Ireland will struggle to achieve buildi
10/02/2009
There are more reported sign of recovery in the Northern Ireland housing market today, after a local estate agents said it was "officially" selling again. The announcement has been supported by chartered surveyors across the province, who have predicted sales will increase next month. Estate age
10/02/2009
The future of a contentious housing development proposed for Mallow, in Co Cork, should be left to an independent assessor, a town councillor has said. Over 120 new homes are planned for the St Joseph's Road area of the town, however local residents have voiced opposition to the two storey building
10/02/2009
Almost one quarter of a million pounds is to be invested in Coalisland, Co Tyrone, to improve the area's general appearance, it has been revealed. The works will include a major street light scheme and other environmental projects. Announcing the funding, Regeneration Minister Margaret Ritchie
10/02/2009
A Draft Liberties Area Plan has been adopted by Dublin City Council, it has been announced. The plans, which were made following an extensive public consultation period, have banned buildings taller than 16 storeys from being constructed in the area. A spokesman for the council said developers
10/02/2009
A series of public consultation events are to be held to discuss the proposed dualling of the A5 between Derry and Aughnacloy, it has been announced. Roads Minister Conor Murphy said the events will provide interested parties with an update and give people an opportunity for comment. He said: "R
10/02/2009
Irish engineering jobs are to triple over the next ten years, according to a new report. The figures, which come after it was revealed that 6% of workers in the trade are currently unemployed, have been released in an Engineers Ireland survey. According to the study, there will be a broadening of
10/02/2009
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive's Direct Labour Organisation has started work on a planting scheme in the Parkhall estate in Antrim. The project is part of the housing authority's grounds rehabilitation programme for the district. Grounds Maintenance Manager Ronnie McCreanor said: "The Hou
09/02/2009
A €100m home insulation programme has been launched by the Irish State, which could create thousands of much-needed construction jobs. Making the announcement, Energy Minister Eamon Ryan and Environment Minister John Gormlet said the national insulation programme was aimed at stimulating economic
09/02/2009
Stormont Finance Minister Nigel Dodds has pledged additional support for the local construction industry, with over £1.4bn earmarked for infrastructural projects this year. The Minister, responding to the latest Construction Bulletin, said the Executive's Investment Strategy has increasing importa
09/02/2009
Arklow Town Council has approved planning permission for a new residential development at Ballyraine Middle and Upper. Developer Harry Kavanagh submitted the planning proposals last summer. Last week the application was granted permission. The construction scheme must adhere to a number of planni
09/02/2009
Armagh firm Emtek Ltd has been awarded the contract to supply materials for the laying and grouting of 15,000m² of new paving as part of the Armagh Public Realms Scheme. The project is expected to take 24 months to complete and Emtek will be working alongside the main contractor, SIAC. Neil McKee,
09/02/2009
Plans for 208 new apartments have been lodged with Carlow County Council, it has been revealed. Developer Sam Snoddy of USL Homes applied for permission to build the scheme on the Eire Og Link Road at Ballinacarrig. The planning application described the development as a three phase project. T
09/02/2009
A Londonderry based log cabin manufacturer has set its sights on expanding sales, with the help of Invest NI. Oakgrove Cabins, which builds bespoke products, is aiming to beat the current economic downturn by pushing exports. The firm plans set up operations closer to potential customers in Great
09/02/2009
Over 400 building jobs are to be created when a decentralisation building scheme gets underway at Carlow's town hall later this month, it has been announced. The two-year long development has been welcomed by Town Clerk Joe Watters. He said: "The initial impact will be fantastic for the town."
09/02/2009
A harbour development in the Wicklow town of Greystones is three months behind schedule, the local council has learned. The Town Manager also warned councillors the scheme could fall even further behind the planned completion date due to adverse weather issues. Seán Quirke said: "We are heading
06/02/2009
It is unlikely a new police station will be built in the Wicklow town of Greystones, despite gaining planning approval, according to local councillors. Despite An Bord Pleanála refusing permission for a new shopping development in Charlesland, it did green light part of the scheme which proposed a
06/02/2009
Local people hold the key to shaping the regeneration of Derry, according to Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie. Ms Ritchie was speaking at a three-day event focused on developing the region. The 'Future Search' Event entitled 'Changing Patterns - Changing Outcomes: An internationally
06/02/2009
Irish Technology Minister Jimmy Devins has officially opened new Dundalk research and development plant, as part of a €1.1m investment by Ergo. The scheme was unveiled at the Incubation Centre at the Regional Development Centre at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT). Enterprise Ireland partly
06/02/2009
Construction output in Northern Ireland experienced another fall in the last quarter, according to the latest figures published by the government. According to the Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin, industry output in the province dropped by 3.6 points. The primary measure of the value of c
06/02/2009
Greystones Library in Co Wexford has closed for major renovation works. The new facility will include a 130 square metre extension, encompassing a study space, IT area, and social room. A spokesman for the library said natural light will play a major part in the project, focusing on the nearby se
06/02/2009
Kingspan Century Business Director Gary Treanor (pictured) has been elected Chair of the Irish Timber Frame Manufacturers' Association (ITFMA) for 2009. Mr Treanor - a chartered civil engineer - has been with Kingspan Century since 1998. He has held several senior management positions and worked o
06/02/2009
Galway City Council has invited tenders for a major watermains replacement scheme at Old Mervue. The council is seeking a civil engineering contractor to complete the work, a spokesman said. Works will involve the replacement of the lead distribution watermains, which requires Horizontal Direct
06/02/2009
Well-known Irish hotel chain Travelodge has announced the launch of a new corporate department in response to growing demand by businesses for good value low cost accommodation. Speaking in Dublin today, Seamus McGowan, Director of Travelodge in Ireland said: "Tough economic times mean that compani
05/02/2009
Plans for a massive 100 acres regeneration scheme at the Poolbeg Peninsula have been put out for public consultation by the Dublin Docklands Authority. The proposals aim to create an urban waterside quarter that facilitates sustainable and consolidated growth of Dublin city, and links the city to
05/02/2009
Proposals for a 60 bedroom hotel complex in Carryduff have been brought before Castlereagh Council. Merit Investment and Properties is behind the planned scheme, which could see a new family restaurant and car park built close to the Ivanhoe Inn. It is believed the Planning Service has attached
05/02/2009
An Irish company today launched what has been described as the most efficient solar panel ever produced. Surface Power in Co Mayo said it plans to create 20 new jobs over the next 12 months with the launch and international distribution of its breakthrough product. Independent Certification by TUV
05/02/2009
Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie has visited Dunmurry to meet with representatives from the Dales Community Association. The Minister discussed a number of issues with the community representatives including living conditions in the Dales Flats and the Housing Executive's plans for their refurbish
05/02/2009
Six homes in Greyabbey and Kircubbin, Co Down, are to be upgraded by the Housing Executive, as part of a £280,000 investment plan, it has been announced. Work on one house at Islandview Gardens, Greyabbey, has already been completed. Tenant Lisa Graham recently moved into her newly-refurbished h
05/02/2009
A new multi-use development completed in Galway has incorporated a sophisticated window system. The Galway Coach Station/Webworks development comprises a car park, intercity coach station with mezzanine restaurant and a mixed use development of three upper floors housing 48 apartments and an Enter
05/02/2009
A Co Antrim company was fined a total of £24,000 plus £2,629.76 court costs on Monday (2 February) for polluting offences. Ulster Farm By-Products, the animal rendering operation near Glenavy in County Antrim, was fined at Antrim Magistrates' Court for five offences of polluting the Glenavy River b
05/02/2009
Northern Ireland's First Ministers Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness have met the head of the Ulster Bank to discuss the difficulties facing local business and households in the current economic climate. Mr McGuinness said: "We discussed the need for credit to be made available to viable local b
04/02/2009
The body representing Irish builders has slammed the state's decision to slash infrastructure spending by €300m as a missed opportunity to stimulate the economy. Further jobs has also been put at risk by the revised budget, according to the Construction Industry Federation (CIF). The Federation s
04/02/2009
Ulster leisure mogul Lord Rana has reaffirmed his plans to build a luxury hotel at an historic Londonderry site. Lord Rana's Andras group, which owns Belfast's Ramada Hotel, confirmed it is to prioritise the Derry project, at the site of the former Tillie and Henderson's factory. Andras's origi
04/02/2009
Five separate capital spending projects are to get underway at schools in County Clare, local TD Tony Killeen has confirmed. The finance has been released by the Department of Education and will see projects commence at Ballycar N.S., St. Joseph's N.S. Cree, Ennis Community College, Quilty N.S. an
04/02/2009
One of Northern Ireland's universities has unveiled a £250m development plan, which will see the construction of a massive new capital city campus. The University of Ulster scheme is also set to create much-needed construction jobs for the local building sector. Work will take place on the Inter
04/02/2009
Irish Health Minister Mary Harney has officially opened a €25m primary care facility in Kildare. The new health care campus is located beside Naas General Hospital. The privately funded scheme offers a base for 25 medical service providers including the K-doc service, an out of hours GP service f
04/02/2009
The first meeting of an Independent Working Group which will explore options for non-farming rural dwellers under the draft planning policy PPS21 has taken place at Stormont. Executive ministers welcomed the inaugural meeting of the group, which is chaired by Jim McKinnon, Chief Planner for Scotlan
04/02/2009
Supermarket chain Asda has released further details of its £25m flagship store proposed for Co Antrim. Designs for the development, located at the Junction One Retail Park, were approved by the planning authority last month. The overall scheme will encompass 55,000 square feet of floor space, ma
04/02/2009
Copper Ridge Systems Ltd have been supplying copper as an alternative to lead flashings through out Ireland for many years. Copper, is now at its lowest price in 21 years, this combined with a strong Euro against Sterling; means there has never been a better time to contact us to consider your roof
03/02/2009
Another 18 local property developers have signed up to the Ulster Bank's Momentum Mortgage scheme, which aims to get first time buyers back into the market by eliminating the need for a hefty deposit. Under the scheme, buyers are protected against house price volatility of up to 15%. Today, an a
03/02/2009
Sligo TD Eamon Scanlon has lauded the State's efforts to sustain work for 500 apprentices facing unemployment, as part of a new €4m scheme. Mr Scanlon said FAS would operate the Employer Based Redundant Apprentice Rotation Scheme until the end of the year. Under the scheme, redundant apprentices w
03/02/2009
Planning permission for a Sligo housing scheme has been refused because of fears over the damage which could be inflicted on a nearby ancient burial site. The county council decided that the development posed a risk to the passage tomb close to the Cairns Hill site. Twenty-one detached homes wer
03/02/2009
Clare County Council has been urged to ensure an adequate level of winter road maintenance is undertaken across the county during the coming week. Local TD Tony Killeen said sub zero air temperatures will present dangers to motorists and pedestrians. Met Eireann is predicting that Clare will expe
03/02/2009
Northern Ireland Communities Minister Margaret Ritchie has allocated £233,000 for play parks at Mount Crescent, and Marian Park in Downpatrick. The projects are to be brought forward at a cost of over £258,000, made possible by a grant of over £233,000 provided by the Minister through the Neighbou
03/02/2009
A new state-of-the-art 'Energy from Waste' plant in Colnbrook, Slough, has benefited from 9,200m2 of Euroclad's standing seam roofing system. The Energy from Waste plant, a joint venture between Grundon Waste Management and Viridor Waste Management, is the major part of a larger £160m redevelopmen
03/02/2009
A new childcare facility has officially opened in Ennis, after receiving more than €350,000 of government funding towards building work. The Holy Family Childcare Centre in Ennis will provide 67 childcare places on a pre-school, and after school basis. Welcoming the facility, Clare TD Tony Killee
03/02/2009
A Co Antrim man was fined a total of £6,000 plus court costs of £163 at Antrim Magistrates' Court yesterday (2 February) for two breaches of waste management legislation. John Leo Carey, 63, of Cloghague Road, Toomebridge, pleaded guilty and was fined £3,000 on each charge. On 15 June 2006 and 6 J
03/02/2009
Construction firms have been invited to find out if their apprentices are plasterminds or trowelblazers at SkillBuild - Britain's biggest skills competition to find the best young builders across a range of construction trades. SkillBuild regional competition dates are now available and entries ar
02/02/2009
A top urban design firm has opened a new £1m Lurgan-based site, following a huge influx of Irish sales. Emtek, which designs and builds highway infrastructure and street furniture, has benefited from the increased demand for its products across the island, prompting an expansion of production faci
02/02/2009
Over €94m has been released by the state to build and upgrade social housing across Ireland. Twenty-six housing projects will benefit from the funds, announced by the Department of the Environment. The cash will also contribute to five separate remedial works schemes around the country. The pr
02/02/2009
One hundred and twelve former Ministry of Defence (MoD) homes are to be converted into social housing, Stormont Minister Margaret Ritchie has announced. The homes - located in Pond Park, Lisburn - will provide much needed homes for over 100 families facing so-called 'housing stress'. Minister Rit
02/02/2009
Flogas has announced plans to roll out a natural gas service for commercial customers throughout Ireland, following a successful pilot launch in the North-East. Nature's Best in Drogheda was its first customer and in the past six months, the company has saved 35% on its natural gas bills. Establi
02/02/2009
Work on a Tipperary swimming pool has received a major boost after a local millionaire pledged to help fund the project. Businessman JP McManus is to donate €300,000 towards the building of the public amenity in the small town of Roscrea. Mr McManus was approached by local TD Michael Smith to sup
02/02/2009
Northern Ireland has the opportunity to create 'green jobs' by maximising its sustainable energy activity, according to NI Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster. Ms Foster, chairing the first meeting of the Interdepartmental Working Group, (IDWG) on sustainable energy, last week, said sustainable ener
02/02/2009
Almost €1.5m has been allocated to a voluntary housing project in Creggaun na Hilla, Clarecastle, it has been revealed. The funding has been welcomed by local representative, among them Clare TD Tony Killeen. Mr Killeen said the money would see the provision of twelve units of accommodation unde
02/02/2009
Geoff Barnett has been appointed Technical Operations Manager at Freefoam Plastics, it has been announced. Mr Barnett, who has worked in the PVC industry for over 30 year, is a member of the organising committee for the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining's (IOM3) international PVC confere
