Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Ireland Construction News Archive for January 2017
31/01/2017
A new wastewater treatment plant has opened in Co Cavan. Irish Water invested €14.5million to upgrade the facility as well as €9.5m to improve the Cavan sewerage network. The works included the upgrading of the existing treatment plant which was built to cater for a population equivalent of 20,000
31/01/2017
Dawson WAM is to begin work to replace a watermain in north Belfast. NI Water appointed the contractor to carry out the work on the Ballygomartin Road. The work is to start on Monday, 06 February, and is expected to be completed in three weeks. It will involve the installation of a new valve and
31/01/2017
Transport Minister Shane Ross has been slammed over his lack of commitment to allocate funding for road improvement works in Co Mayo. Fianna Fáil TD for Galway West Éamon Ó Cuív said the R346 Cross to Cong Road poses serious safety issues. He said: "The Cross to Cong road services a number of majo
31/01/2017
Construction work is to start on a £200,000 road improvement project in Portaferry, Co Down. The work on the Cloughey Road is scheduled to begin on Monday, 06 February. The scheme will improve the strength and surface quality of the carriageway on a two-kilometre section of this important A Class
31/01/2017
Quinn Automatic has begun work on a sewer improvement scheme within Derry City Walls. The firm has partnered with NI Water to carry out the work on Bishop Street which is expected to be completed in three weeks. Extensive investigation works, which were carried out during November 2016, identified
31/01/2017
Demolition work has started on a retaining wall in Co Down. The £60,000 work is part of an improvement project to provide a grass verge on the A49 Old Ballynahinch Road adjacent to Pot Hill Land. Work commenced on Monday, 30 January, and is due to be completed by Friday, 03 March. To allow the
31/01/2017
Labour has hit out at the Government for not designating Limerick and Waterford at Rent Pressure Zones (RPZ's). Limerick TD and Spokesperson on Housing, Planning and Local Government, Jan O'Sullivan, said the people of Limerick, Waterford and other parts of the country are now left with no protecti
31/01/2017
Privately owned manufacturer of metal roof, wall cladding and decking products, Euroclad Ireland has rebranded as Euro Quality Cladding Limited (EQC.) With over 20 years of successfully trading in the ROI and NI markets, Euroclad Ireland's sister company, Euroclad Limited in Cardiff has been acquir
30/01/2017
The Alliance Party has raised concerns over Sinn Fein's part in the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme which is set to cost the public purse around £490 million. It was recently revealed that Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill ran a number of workshops promoting the RHI scheme and documents show 58 se
30/01/2017
A Co Antrim firm has secured its first orders for its sewage treatment system in Republic of Ireland and Isle of Man. Aerotank in Randalstown manufactures large underground septic tanks and targets builders' merchants, architects and self-build customers throughout Ireland. Over the past four year
30/01/2017
A boil water notice in Co Clare which was put in place in July 2016 has been lifted. Around 300 premises were effected by the notice in Turlough, however after essential works being carried out the water is now safe to drink. The lifting of the notice, on the advice of the Health Service Executive
30/01/2017
Fianna Fail is calling for more information to be published in relation to the Renewal Heating Scheme in Ireland. Spokesperson on Communications, Environment and Natural Resources, Timmy Dooley, has said that while there is merit in the scheme, Minister Naughton needs to ensure that the mistakes th
30/01/2017
Fianna Fail is calling on the Central Bank to move forward and supply banks with a deadline to put mortgage customers back on the tracker rate. Finance Spokesperson, Michael McGrath TD, said: "As we approach the end of January 2017, thousands of mortgage holders in Ireland who should be on a tracke
30/01/2017
Over 80 rapid build homes are to be developed in Ireland after the Housing Minister approved two projects estimated to cost around €20.4 million. A total of 83 homes are to be built for homeless people under the rapid build programme. Minister Simon Coveney said under Pillar 1, address homelessnes
30/01/2017
A total of 12 properties in Banagher have been connected to a new watermain, after the old one burst frequently and caused a loss of water supply to Irish Water customers. The project in the Crescent Estate area included a €30,000 investment to lay a new watermain in front of the customers properti
30/01/2017
An investigation has launched after reports of an oil spillage at a slipway in Portaferry, Co Down. Launched by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), the probe will examine gallons of diesel which have been leaking from a moored boat near Cook Street. The fuel tanks on the vessel are bel
27/01/2017
Plans have been unveiled to upgrade the Portavogie Harbour in Co Down. The proposals, by the Northern Ireland Fishery Harbour Authority, include improvements to be made to the building and also to extend the chilled room facilities. More modern toilets and washing facilities will also be provided
27/01/2017
Serious concerns have been raised in relation to the proposed 'over-grounding' of the North-South Interconnector in Ireland. At a recent public meeting community groups in Cavan, Meath and Monaghan called for the undergrounding of the project as evidence revealed it strengthens the grid and improve
27/01/2017
Contractor BSG Civil Engineering is to begin work on a sewer improvement project in Ballycastle, Co Antrim. The work on the Bayview Road, Strandview Road and Castle Street areas will start on Monday, 30 January, and is expected to take around two weeks to complete. The work includes the installati
27/01/2017
Sinn Fein has hit out at NAMA after it was revealed the firm is currently holding over 80 vacant residential properties despite the homelessness crisis in Ireland. TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady described the situation as "outrageous" and "absolutely unacceptable". Commenting on figures rel
27/01/2017
A newly redeveloped leisure centre has officially opened in Belfast. Olympia, on the Boucher Road, is the first of Belfast City Council's (BCC) redeveloped facilities to open under its £105 million Leisure Transformation Programme. The Andersonstown, Brook and the Robinson Centre sites are all set
27/01/2017
The Alliance Party has called for "immediate action" after gallons of diesel have started leaking from a moored boat in Portaferry, Co Down. The boat crashed into the Ards and North Down Council-owned Cook Street Quay some time ago and although several attempts have been made to repair it, it has b
27/01/2017
Construction work to develop a new play facility in the Brandywell area in Co L'Derry is to start in February. The Brandywell Recycling Centre is to close on Friday, 17 February, to make way for the new play area which was approved by elected members last year. The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane
27/01/2017
The foreshore licence to carry out marine site investigation works to go-ahead with the development of a new wastewater treatment plant in Arklow, Co Wicklow, has been granted. The marine site investigation works include archaeological surveys, ecological surveys and geotechnical surveys and will b
26/01/2017
A new wastewater treatment plant is to be developed in Cullenagh, Co Cork. The current plant is inadequate and the project is aimed at facilitating future growth and development. Irish Water is progressing with plans for the new Courtmacsherry/Timoleague Sewerage Scheme and the proposed works incl
26/01/2017
A total of £190,000 is to be invested in a road resurfacing scheme in Ballymena, Co Antrim. The scheme on the C47 Cromkill Road from the UR77 Ballee Road West to the A26 Lisnevenagh Road will provide 1.2 kilometres of new asphalt road surface. Work will start on Monday, 06 February and is schedu
26/01/2017
Over £530,000 has been allocated for a new 3G pitch at Aughnacloy College in Northern Ireland. The project, to be funded by the Department for Communities through the Regional Shared Sporting Facilities programme, will be finalised once a budget outcome is known. It will be delivered by the Educati
26/01/2017
Fianna Fáil is calling on the developers who built the Beacon South Quarter apartments in Dublin to pay the €10million fire safety bill following "poor standards" of construction. Spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart TD said residents are "extremely distressed" after it was revealed the development
26/01/2017
Only 17 contractors have registered with the Help-to-Buy scheme nationwide, according to figures provided by Revenue Commissioners. Fianna Fáil is urging the Government to introduce a mandatory requirement for contractors to register with Revenue to help first-time buyers qualify for a Help-to-Buy
26/01/2017
Construction work is to start on the £350,000 Forkhill Greenspace project in Armagh. The scheme is jointly funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Newry, Mourne and Down Council. It involves the construction of a 800 metre pathway together with a number o
26/01/2017
The Alliance Party has called on Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard to provide "firmer assurances" that the rest of the funding to deliver the York Street Interchange scheme will be made available. Spokesperson Kellie Armstrong "cautiously" welcomed the £4million funding to develop the scheme to
26/01/2017
The Government "cannot continue as silent partners" in relation to the sale of Ardmore Studios in Co Wicklow, according to Sinn Féin. The party made the call following a public meeting surrounding the sale of the studios. TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady said: "Those in attendance, particular
25/01/2017
The overall outlook for the construction industry is "very positive", according to the Director General of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF). Mr Tom Parlon said the industry is expected to grow by 33% up to 2020 and is calling on students and school leavers to consider a career in construc
25/01/2017
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Government after it allocated €324 million to maintain local and regional roads in Ireland. Spokesperson on Transport Robert Troy TD said the funding is "far below" what is required. Deputy Troy highlighted that the four year spending average on roads in each county
25/01/2017
Four schools in Northern Ireland are to undergo improvement work under the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). The work, valued at over £10 million, will take place at St Malachy's College, Belfast, Our Lady's Grammar School, Newry, St Michael's College, Enniskillen and Slemish Integrated College,
25/01/2017
A new pedestrian crossing is to be installed in Co Down. The proposed Puffin crossing will be located close to the junction with the Rathfriland Road in Hilltown. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said it will improve road safety for pedestrians. Minister Hazzard said: "With some 8000 vehicle
25/01/2017
Fine Gael has raised serious concerns over plans to charge apartment owners in Sandyford, Dublin, up to €30 million to carry out repairs on their properties. The apartments, in Beacon South Quarter, have a number of structural issues and fire safety defects. TD for Dublin Rathdown, Josepha Madigan
25/01/2017
Construction work is to start on a £230,000 road improvement project in Hillsborough, Co Down. The scheme on the A1 Dual Carriageway involves the erection of a central safety barrier between Hillsborough Roundabout and the junction at Dromore Road. To facilitate installation of the barrier, it is n
25/01/2017
A Liverpool-based firm has completed construction of the new Strangford Ferry in Co Down. Cammell Laird finished work on the £6.2 million ferry to replace the MV Strangford, which was built in 1969 and is now beginning to reach the end of its operational life. The new ferry is equipped with the la
25/01/2017
Sinn Féin has slammed the Government over its failure to tackle the housing crisis in Ireland. Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald said the Govt "simply isn't doing enough" and proposed six key measures to help "get a handle" on the crisis. She said: "We need real rent certainty and greater protection
24/01/2017
A total of £70,000 has been secured to install and replace LED street lights in Belfast city centre. The work will take place in Victoria Street, Donegall Square, Wellington Place, Chichester Street, Howard Street and May Street. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said: "There are many environm
24/01/2017
Work has started on a £220,000 resurfacing scheme in Co Fermanagh. The resurfacing works are taking place on the A34 Clones Road in Newtownbutler. The work on three sections of the road at Kilready, Legmacaffrey and Clonagun will total two kilometres of the road surface. Due to the restricted
24/01/2017
NI Water is to continue to receive funding for public services, Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard has conformed. This means the firm will not need to introduce domestic water charges to customers. Minister Hazzard said brought forward the draft Grants to Water and Sewerage Undertakers Order 20
24/01/2017
A total of £4million funding will be made available to develop the York Street Interchange project in Belfast to a construction ready state, the Infrastructure Minister has confirmed. The contract award for the development will also be progressed, according to Minister Chris Hazzard. Minister Hazz
24/01/2017
The Green Party has raised concerns over Government proposals to regenerate rural towns and villages. Spokesperson on Local Government Cllr Michael Noonan said the plans will fail if issues of rural planning and public transport are not addressed. He said: "While we welcome the plan, and there are
24/01/2017
Apartment owners in Sandyford, Dublin, may have to pay over €10million to repair structural and fire safety defects in their properties, it has been revealed. The apartments are located at Beacon South Quarter and following the revelations Sinn Féin TD and spokesperson on Housing Eoin Ó Broin has c
24/01/2017
Local authorities will be able to plan ahead after the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport announced the 2017 grant allocations for maintenance on regional and local roads throughout Ireland. Minister Shane Ross announced a €324 million investment programme to support the road network. The M
24/01/2017
Fire Marshal courses are to take place on Thursday, 09 February, and Tuesday, 28 February, in Belfast. The four hour course results in delegates achieving a St John Ambulance (NI) certificate of attendance, approved by the Institution of Fire Engineers, valid for three years. Learn about - fire de
24/01/2017
A series of information events are to take place in Northern Ireland to discuss the Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS). The scheme aims to restore, preserve and improve biodiversity as well as improve water quality and mitigate climate changes. The scheme is expected to open at the end of February
24/01/2017
Officials have been ordered to "call in" the forthcoming planning application by the GAA for the redevelopment of Casement Park in west Belfast. The application, when submitted, will be processed by the Department for Infrastructure and the final decision Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard will
23/01/2017
GMC Utilities Group in partnership with Monaghan County Council has been appointed to carry out work to improve the water service in the town and Clones. Irish Water is investing €5.5 million in the project which will be used for the replacement and rehabilitation of 9.1 km of aging water mains. T
23/01/2017
A total of £300,000 has been secured to carry out a resurfacing scheme on a major carriageway in Co Down. The project, on the B8 Newry road in Hilltown, will provide over 2km of new asphalt road surface and associated drainage improvement works Preparatory work will commence on Monday, 13 February
23/01/2017
High levels of air pollution have been recorded in Armagh, Belfast, L'Derry and Newry. Moderate levels are being monitored in some other urban centres across Northern Ireland and the air quality is likely to improve this evening, 23 January, and into tomorrow, 24 January, as winds strengthen. The
23/01/2017
Economy Minister Simon Hamilton has been called to publish a full timeline on the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme as well as a full list of beneficiaries. the scheme is set to cost the public purse around £490million. Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey also called on the Minister to state whe
23/01/2017
NI Water has announced it is hosting a 'Drop In' event to discuss the ongoing flooding issues in the Greystown/Malone area of Belfast. The firm is currently completing the detailed design of a major flood alleviation project for the area. The scheme will involve the upgrading of the existing combi
23/01/2017
Construction work is continuing on a sewerage improvement project in Co Armagh. In consultation with Transport NI, work on Lower English street was suspended on 25 November and recommenced today, 23 January. the work is expected to take approximately one week to complete. To facilitate the major s
23/01/2017
Sinn Féin has slammed the Government's rural development plan and described the €60million allocated over three years is little more than "window-dressing". A total of 600 towns throughout Ireland are to share the money. TD for Public Expenditure and Reform David Cullinane said: "The announcement
23/01/2017
Fianna Fáil is calling for changes to be made to the rules on lending restrictions to Credit Unions. Spokesperson on Finance Michael McGrath made the call and revealed that Credit Unions could offer "badly needed" competition in the mortgage market. Deputy McGrath was commenting on news of an init
23/01/2017
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Ireland is being urged to improve its monitoring and advice during serious periods of air pollution. The Green Party made the call after air quality in Dublin and all other major towns reached 'very poor' levels or '10 out of 10' on the Agency's monitori
23/01/2017
The 'Bedroom Tax' will not be introduced in Northern Ireland, according to Sinn Féin. Bedroom Tax is a change to Housing Benefit Entitlement that means tenants will receive less in housing benefit if they live in a housing association or council property that is deemed to have one or more spare bed
20/01/2017
An Irish renewable energy firm has partnered with French company Neoen to develop, build, own and operate a number of solar projects in Ireland. BNRG Renewables joint venture (JV), BNRG Neoen Holdings Limited, will co-develop a portfolio of 23 projects in the South and East of the country. The pla
20/01/2017
The Green Party is calling for further details to be released over the public inquiry into the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. Leader Steven Agnew MLA gave the inquiry a "cautious" welcome, however he said more details about the timeframe and terms of reference are needed. Mr Agnew
20/01/2017
Sinn Féin has confirmed it is committed to building a greener economy. Speaking on the Fossil Fuel Divestment Bill in the Dáil Spokesperson on Climate Action and Environment Brian Stanley TD said "fossil fuels are yesterday's fuels". He said: "The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund hold over €7bn
20/01/2017
Construction work is to start on a new leisure centre in Newtownards, Co Down. The new facility will be located on the site of the Dairy Hall playing fields and work is to commence at the start of February. The existing leisure centre at William Street will remain in use. The new facility is expe
20/01/2017
A €700,000 greenfield site with full planning permission has been put on the market by Savills in Dublin. The 2.73 acre site is located in Riverside, Ballyboughal Village. The site benefits from full planning permission for a scheme including 17 houses, 8 apartments and 2 retail units, in addition
20/01/2017
Irish Water is to invest €600,000 to replace old and ageing watermains in Co Tipperary. The project will involve the installation of approximately 4 km of new watermains. The work is programmed to be completed by the middle of 2017. Residents of Beggars Seat, The Ragg and Birdhill are to benefit f
20/01/2017
Site investigations are to begin on the Old Connaught Woodbrook Water Supply Scheme in Dublin. Irish Water will start the work on Monday, 23 January. The project includes the construction of new reservoirs in the Ballyman area and the installation of approximately 11km of new trunk supply water ma
20/01/2017
Construction firms have been urged to redouble their efforts to reduce on-site accidents in 2017. The Director General of the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) made the call at a meeting with leading industry members. Mr Tom Parlon said tragic accidents are much more likely to occur within th
20/01/2017
Irish energy start ups are being urged to join 12 firms selected to take part in a global accelerator programme to foster energy solutions. Spearheaded by ESB and a consortium of worldwide utilities and accelerators, the aim of the Free Electrons global accelerator programme is to recruit 12 energy
20/01/2017
Fianna Fáil is calling on the Government to include rural towns in its pilot plan to revitalise rural Ireland. The scheme is expected to begin a pilot project later this year. TD for Mayo Lisa Chambers accused Fine Gael of "neglecting" rural Ireland over the past six years. She said: "The plan be
19/01/2017
NI firm FP McCann has scooped a design and build project in Belfast. The Horseshoe Bend Path Project, awarded by Belfast Hills Partnership, is located at Carr's Glen Linear Park just off the Crumlin Road. The scheme includes the design and build of approximately 440 metres of paths across two fiel
19/01/2017
Resurfacing work is to begin on a £250,000 scheme in Trillick, Co Tyrone. The project on the B46 Galbally Road is to start on Monday, 30 January. A full closure of the road will be in place from Monday until Wednesday, 15 February, to allow surfacing work to be carried out. All traffic will be di
19/01/2017
The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) is calling on Westminster to set up an inquiry over the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. Leader of the party, Mike Nesbitt, said the Secretary of State "must intervene" as more daily revelations in relation to the scheme are coming to light. Mr Nesbitt
19/01/2017
Two Irish architects have been appointed curators of the 16th International Venice Architecture Biennale in 2018. The Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD, congratulated Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara of Grafton Architects on their appointmen
19/01/2017
The Government has been warned that the State may be liable for illegal home repossessions if EU law is not correctly implemented by the Irish court system. The Green Party issued the warning and also called on the Government to introduce a moratorium on home repossessions. On 21 December, the Hig
19/01/2017
Irish energy ESB has partnered with students from St Paul's College in Raheny and St Mary's Holy Faith in Killester to launch Aware's Life Skills for Schools programme for Transition Year students. The six-week intensive programme teaches students the ability to understand the relationship between
19/01/2017
A developer in Belfast has been fined for failing to comply with building regulations over work carried out on a property in Shandon Park in east Belfast. Mosspat Developments Ltd was fined £200 not complying with a contravention notice served on them in May of last year. The firm was also given 1
19/01/2017
Construction work is continuing on a new £1 million harbour on Rathlin Island in Co Antrim. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said the harbour development will be "key to ensuring Rathlin's continued sustainable growth". He said: "The investment will honour the commitment given in my Departmen
19/01/2017
Irish Water is urging customers living in the Mountmellick area in Co Laois to conserve their water usage. The firm made the call due to the unseasonably dry weather conditions over recent weeks. The dry weather conditions have resulted in lower than normal water levels in the Straboe Well, the so
19/01/2017
A technical feasibility report on site options for a new grammar school in Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, has been completed. The preferred site option for the new Enniskillen Royal Grammar School will be on the former Portora Royal School site, according to Education Minister Peter Weir. Minister Wei
18/01/2017
NI firm BSG Civil engineering is to begin work on a new storm sewer in Co L'Derry. The work is to begin on Monday, 23 January, and is expected to take approximately 12 weeks. The proposed construction work will involve the laying of approximately 418 metres of storm sewer and associated manholes t
18/01/2017
Economy Minister Simon Hamilton is being urged to publish the names of the beneficiaries who are on the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme, which is set to cost the public purse over £400 million. Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín said it is in the "public interest" for the names of all the
18/01/2017
Construction work on a £500,000 bridge replacement scheme has been completed in Northern Ireland. The bridge links Kilmore Village to Crossgar and provides the main link between Kilmore and Crossgar across the Annacloy River. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said: "The £500,000 replacement of
18/01/2017
Sinn Féin has hit out at South Dublin City Council (SDCC) and the Department of Housing after over 3,500 households have "vanished" from the housing list. Dublin Mid-West and spokesperson on Housing Eoin Ó Broin has called on the Department and the SDCC to explain how the housing list figures have
18/01/2017
Aerie Pharmaceuticals has entered into a lease agreement with IDA Ireland to set up a new manufacturing plant in the recently built 2,650m2 IDA Advanced Technology Building in Athlone, Ireland. Aerie has commenced its design plan for the facility and expects to begin internal construction in earl
18/01/2017
Serious concerns have been raised over the number of people being evicted from homes, despite being up-to-date on their rent payments. Landlords have been accused by Sinn Fein of selling properties to "banks or vulture funds" which is forcing people out of their homes. Mr Dessie Ellis said he is s
18/01/2017
DUP MLA Michelle McIlveen has been slammed for turning down plans to introduce a bottle deposit return scheme in Northern Ireland. The scheme aims to give cash back for bottles that have been returned for recycling. SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said: "During my tenure as Environment Minister I saw
18/01/2017
The bankers who oversaw the removal or denial of tracker mortgages should be investigated for "common theft", according to Sinn Féin. Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has called for the tracker mortgage scandal to be considered a "criminal matter". He said: "We heard the usual refrain from M
18/01/2017
Over 20 households have been accepted onto the new Rent to Own scheme in Northern Ireland. Five households have already moved into their new houses and another 17 have been accepted onto the scheme. The pilot initiative, which has been made possible by a £12.5 million investment by the Department
18/01/2017
A new two classroom extension has officially opened at a school in Magherafelt has officially opened. A total of £530,000 was allocated to Kilronan Special School under the Minor Works Programme. The extension to the existing school includes a quiet room, toilets, hygiene room, soft play area and
17/01/2017
A storm tank at the Kinnegad Wastewater Treatment Plant in Westmeath has been upgraded. Irish Water invested €170,000 in the project which has increased the capacity of the storm water holding at the wastewater treatment plant to ensure more efficient treatment at the plant. The increased capacit
17/01/2017
A total of £380,000 has been secured to improve the area surrounding St Eugene's Cathedral in Co L'Derry. The investment from the NI Executive, through the Department for Communities, will see an upgrade to the footways around the Grade B+ listed cathedral on the periphery of L'Derry city centre.
17/01/2017
Construction work is to begin on a £180,000 road improvement project in Ballymena, Co Antrim. The work, on the B94 Rathkeel Road, extends from the junction of Deerfin Road to the junction with Church Road, and will provide 2.4 kilometres of new road surface. Work will start on Monday, 23 January,
17/01/2017
Work has been completed on two new social homes in Newtownabbey. The two-bedroom houses for Helm Housing are located at Ballyfore Park in Ballyduff. Construction work on another two houses at the site is continuing and they are expected to be completed in March this year. (CD/JP)
17/01/2017
Electricity firm Eirgrid has announced the date of its annual conference, 'Planning for our Energy Future'. Approximately 300 delegates are expected to attend the conference in Dublin Castle on Thursday, 26 January. Dr Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA) in Par
17/01/2017
Work is to start on a £200,000 carriageway road widening and traffic calming scheme in Downpatrick, Co Down. The work on Fountain Street includes widening the street and providing formalised on-street parking areas and enhanced sight visibility at the junction with Ardmore Avenue. Preliminary work
17/01/2017
A total of 90 community halls in Northern Ireland are to share £1.9million of capital funding which will be used for minor works to the halls to improve the fabric of the buildings. The Programme was launched last October with a closing date for applications of 23 November 2016. Minister for Comm
17/01/2017
Sinn Féin is demanding the board of Ballymun Regeneration and Dublin City Council (DCC) answer questions in relation to the tender process surrounding a €6.6million loan to a construction firm. Dessie Ellis described the situation as "highly unusual". He said: "I asked the then Minister of State a
17/01/2017
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) is hosting a public event to discuss the potential for a new housing development in Ballyhornan, Co Down. The event, in partnership with Ballyhornan and District Community Association, is being held at the Ballyhornan Family Centre on Wednesday, 25 Janu
17/01/2017
Northern Ireland Water has been fined for discharging untreated sewage from Islandbank Wastewater Pumping Station in Newry to the Newry Canal. The firm pleaded guilty and was fined £500, plus £15 Offender Levy at Newry Magistrates' Court. On 13 July 2015, a Senior Water Quality Inspector, acting o
16/01/2017
A planning application is to be submitted to upgrade the water treatment plant at Glenties-Ardara in Donegal. The proposed works include the construction of a new treatment building to house the processes of air-stripping, ultraviolet treatment and chlorine disinfection. The purpose of installing a
16/01/2017
NI Water is seeking 12 apprentices to be part of delivering high quality drinking water by working in the Water Function. Brian McCalmont, Head of Water, said: "Successful trainees will undertake a water industry focused qualification with practical skills gained from working within the water funct
16/01/2017
Over £4.7 million is being invested to improve and enhance Enniskillen town centre in Co Fermanagh. The multi-million pound project is being funded by the Department for Communities, with a further £500,000 being provided by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council. Improvement works include paving,
16/01/2017
A farmer from Co Tyrone has been fined for connecting a public water main without consent. Mr James Byrne from Castlederg, Co Tyrone, pleaded guilty at Strabane Court to an offence under the Water and Sewerage Services (NI) Order 2006. He was fined £250 with an offender's levy fee of £15. Mr Byr
16/01/2017
A total of £3.7 million is to be invested to improve developments and streets in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. The scheme aims to improve the linkages and connectivity between key developments including Castle Gardens, Market Square and Bow Street Mall. Features include upgrading the footpaths, lighti
16/01/2017
Sinn Féin is calling for a "selection scheme" to be established to deal with the housing issue in Northern Ireland. Fra McCann MLA said a new approach is needed to address all housing matters. He said: "We must focus on equality for all sections of our community and the distribution of resources t
16/01/2017
The Simon Community have been praised for their work supporting the homeless people in Northern Ireland. Last year 18,628 people presented as homeless to the Housing Executive in NI and recent statistics for Causeway Coast & Glens council area for 2014/2015 showed 1,124 presented as homeless. Sinn
16/01/2017
Termination notices for residents living in The Strand apartments in Dublin have been withdrawn. The owners of the apartments involved are writing to residents affected by the recent termination notices to confirm they have been withdrawn and that they will abide by the spirit of the so-called Tyrr
13/01/2017
Improvement works at the Enfield Wastewater Treatment Plant in Co Meath have been completed. Irish Water invested €50,000 to improve the quality of the treated discharges that are returned to the Blackwater River. The investment in the plant will help to ensure it is compliant with EU Urban Wastew
13/01/2017
Translink has acquired the Old Waterside Station in Co L'Derry to develop the North-West Integrated Transport Hub. The preferred site for the Hub was identified last year following a public consultation. Translink Group Chief Executive Chris Conway said: "We are committed to making public transpor
13/01/2017
A total of £435,000 funding has been allocated to improve and enhance the town centres in Craigavon, Lurgan and Portadown. The Northern Ireland Executive, through the Department for Communities, is investing approximately £300,000 in the project. Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council
13/01/2017
Contractors Heron Brothers have been appointed to develop three new leisure centres in Belfast. The new developments will replace the existing buildings at Andersonstown Leisure Centre, the Robinson Centre and Brook Activity Centre. The new centres are part of Belfast City Council's £105million Le
13/01/2017
Over 270 properties in Tullamore, Co Offaly, have been connected to a new watermain to improve the supply for customers. Irish Water invested €250,000 in the project at properties on O'Molloy street and Marian Place. The scheme included connecting 274 homes directly to the new watermain. Service
13/01/2017
Contractors are continuing to work on a £3million programme to improve the sewerage network in Co Armagh. Work is now underway on the Newry Road to complete the remaining sections of the sewer upgrades. It involves the laying of small sections of sewer, along with connections to the existing sewera
13/01/2017
A Co Antrim businessman, who sold fake fire safety glass to a construction firm, has been sentenced to one year in prison. Seamus James Laverty from Toomebridge ran Glassworks Ireland from premises at Randalstown. He was found guilty of selling laminate glass as higher quality fire safety glass to
13/01/2017
Sinn Féin is calling for the domestic water metering programme to be stopped. Spokesperson for Public Expenditure and Reform, David Cullinane, said the unspent €140million should be reallocated to other areas earmarked for capital expenditure by Irish Water. Deputy Cullinane said: "Sinn Féin has
12/01/2017
The Minister for Economy, Simon Hamilton, has submitted a plan to tackle the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scandal. Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir confirmed he has asked legal advisors and accountants to conduct a thorough and professional assessment of the proposal before reporting back the
12/01/2017
Unilever UK & Ireland has signed a contract with renewable energy firm GENeco to use biomethane at five of its sites in the UK and Ireland. Its offices in Leatherhead (Surrey) and 100 Victoria Embankment (London), and its food and drink factories in Norwich, Trafford Park and Cork, are now using 10
12/01/2017
A new £2million development has officially opened in Cookstown, Co Tyrone. The new Rivers Headquarters on the Loughry Campus accommodates up to 85 staff members. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said: "The opening of this new £2million state of the art office provides a modern working environ
12/01/2017
Sinn Féin has called on the government to ensure that the alternative accommodation being offered to homeless people in Apollo House in Dublin is "suitable and up to standard". Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald said promises were made to the people who are currently residing in Apollo House and those
12/01/2017
The all-time record for wind generation has been broken, EirGrid has confirmed. Wind generation peaked at 2,815 megawatts (MW) on the island at 7.15am on Wednesday, 11 January, breaking the previous record of 2,683 MW on 28 January last year. Robin McCormick, Director of Operations, Planning and I
12/01/2017
The Labour Party has condemned a vulture fund which is forcing over 30 families to be evicted from their homes in the Strand Complex in Limerick. Housing spokesperson, Jan O'Sullivan, said the Labour Party Housing Bill, put before the Dáil towards the end of last year, would have protected the righ
12/01/2017
A former psychiatric hospital in Wexford has been put up for sale with a guide price of €780,000. Fianna Fail is calling for the money from the sale of St. Senan's psychiatric hospital to be used for mental health services in the town. A separate landholding is also on sale for €630,000. Spokespe
12/01/2017
A regeneration scheme to help bring vacant, derelict or underused land and buildings into use in Portrush, Co Antrim, has been launched. The Urban Development Grant (UDG) scheme is one of the key regeneration measures that has been identified as being crucial to long-term regeneration. Communities
11/01/2017
A construction firm in Northern Ireland has completed work on a multi-million pound development in Scotland. Dixons Contractors developed the Academy of Sport and Wellbeing at Perth College UHI, University of the Highlands and Islands, Scotland, in time for the 2016/2017 academic year. The £7 mill
11/01/2017
Work on a £748,000 extension at a business park in Brownlow, Craigavon, has been completed. Communities Minister Paul Givan officially opened the new extension at Bluestone Business Park, which provides eight new business units for both creating new businesses and facilitating the growth plans of e
11/01/2017
Action Renewables are urging businesses, organisations and community groups to enter its prestigious annual awards event. The deadline for Action Renewables Awards, sponsored by Vayu energy, is at 5pm on Monday, 27 February. The awards luncheon will take place in the Irish Railway Gallery at the U
11/01/2017
The Alliance Party is calling for a new pedestrian crossing to be installed on the Belfast Road in Holywood, Co Down. Alliance Ards and North Down Councillor Scott Wilson made the call after residents raised concerns of motorists breaking the speed limits in the area. He said: "I have been in cont
11/01/2017
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council have supported a move to introduce Sunday opening hours at recycling centres in Antrim. However, the move needs to pass full Council at the end of this month. Alliance Councillor Neil Kelly said: "When Antrim and Newtownabbey Councils merged in May 2015, I b
11/01/2017
Construction work has started on a £280,000 road project in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. The work is taking place on the Glenavy Road, between Killultagh Road and Carnhill Road, and is expected to be completed by the end of January this year. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said: "This is good
11/01/2017
Improvement works in Cookstown have been completed. A total of £3.2million was invested in the work to upgrade the town centre. The public realm works carried out in James Street, William Street and adjoining streets included: • Demolitions and Earthworks • High quality pavements • Surface Wate
11/01/2017
Fianna Fáil is calling for suitable sites to be identified for mixed tenure housing developments in Dublin. Dublin West TD John Lahart made the call following the agreement to develop O'Devaney Gardens and two other state-owned sites in Dublin through a public-private partnership. The development
10/01/2017
The site where a new health centre was to be developed on Inishbofin Island in Galway has been deemed "unsuitable". Fianna Fáil TD for Galway West and Party Spokesperson on Island Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuív, slammed the consistent delays and confirmed plans for the health centre were at an advanced stag
10/01/2017
Work has begun on a resurfacing scheme in Drumaness, Co Down. The project, which is located on the Drumaness Road, involved the resurfacing of a 1.6 kilometre stretch of the A24 Drumaness Road from a point 120 metres north of the Drumaness Road junction to a point 1,720 metres north of the same jun
10/01/2017
An Ulster Unionist MLA has slammed Economy Minster Simon Hamilton for failing to work on solutions over the botched Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. Mr Steve Aiken said Minister Hamilton said the same six months ago, however he still has not produced anything. He said: "We had the First Mini
10/01/2017
Bausch + Lomb has signed a two-year electricity and gas contract with Bord Gáis Energy. Bord Gáis Energy has also supported the development of a modern 3.3MW Combined Heat & Power unit (CHP) at the pharmaceutical manufacturer's Waterford facility, which is predicted to save the company up to €1 mil
10/01/2017
An agreement has been reached between Minister Simon Coveney and representatives of the Home Street Home campaign, regarding the transition of those currently occupying Apollo House in Dublin. It is understood the individuals will be moved to alternative accommodation, with the appropriate support
10/01/2017
The SDLP has written to the Communities Minister Peter Weir calling for him to confirm mitigation measures will be put in place by the time the Bedroom Tax is introduced in February. SDLP Communities Spokesperson and North Belfast MLA Nichola Mallon said the window for implementing mitigation again
10/01/2017
Fianna Fáil has hit out at the Energy Minister in providing support to firms interested in setting up solar energy farms. Spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and Energy, Timmy Dooley said Minister Naughten has been "disappointingly slow" in providing guidance after reports showed that on
10/01/2017
Construction work is to start on a £95,000 road resurfacing project in Craigavon, Co Armagh. The work on the Tullgally East Road will begin on Monday, 16 January, and is expected to be completed on Friday, 03 February. The resurfacing extends from outside Carrigart up to and including the entrance
09/01/2017
Over €3 million is being invested in the wastewater treatment plant in Shannon. Irish Water has partnered with Clare County Council to carry out improvement works at the plant which include cleaning and surveying the sewers. The survey work on the town's sewer network is now complete. Over 30km of
09/01/2017
Just over 200 Mortgage to Rent transactions have been completed in over four years, according to new figures from the Housing Agency. With only 217 transactions completed, Fianna Fail said the scheme is "simply not working" and needs a "radical shake-up". The party's spokesperson on Finance, Micha
09/01/2017
Four windfarms in Northern Ireland were switched on in December 2016. Energia's windfarms at Long Mountain, Co Antrim, Glenbuck, Co Antrim, Gortfinbar, Co Tyrone and Eshmore, Co Tyrone have started supplying power to homes and businesses throughout the island. Together with Energia's 95MW windfarm
09/01/2017
Work has started on a £500,000 bridge replacement project in Crossgar, Co Down. The C278 Kilmore Road will be closed to traffic, between Drakes Bridge Road and the junction with the Old Mill in Kilmore Village, from 8am on Monday, 16 January until 5pm on Tuesday, 17 January to complete the final su
09/01/2017
Work on a £1.2 million road improvement project has been completed in County Down, two months ahead of schedule. The scheme, at Temple Crossroads, included a new four leg roundabout at the junction of the A24 Carryduff Road and B6 Saintfield Road. Work on the Park and Share facility on the western
09/01/2017
A tendering competition to put a supplier framework in place for waste management services in Ireland has launched. The Office of Government Procurement (OGP) confirmed the framework, which is estimated to be valued at up to €23 million per year, will be available for use by public bodies in the ce
09/01/2017
Labour has hit out at Dublin City Council (DCC) for failing to have the Vacant Site Register completed by January this year. Cllr Mary Freehill said it is "absolutely unacceptable" and is calling on councillors to support them at January's council meeting She said: "In 2013 the Council identified
09/01/2017
Work to install a new bus shelter and footway in Drumaness, Co Down, has been completed. The work included connecting a 260 metre section of the footway along the A24 Newcastle Road near Christ the King primary school. Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard said: "This new footway along this busy s
09/01/2017
Derry City and Strabane District Council has issued a warning to the public to heed advice in relation to the use of domestic home heating fuels in designated Smoke Control Areas. The smoke control areas were first introduced in the Strabane area in 2007, in a bid to improve air quality across the
09/01/2017
New records were set for wind energy generation across Ireland over Christmas, according to the Irish Wind Energy Association (IWEA). On Christmas Eve over 2,800 megawatts of electricity was generated by wind across the island, providing 68% of Ireland's energy needs at that time. Official data sh
06/01/2017
The only way to get answers about the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scandal in with the Inquiries Act, according to the SDLP. An investigation by Spotlight revealed several errors in the scheme which will cost the public purse over £400million. SDLP Finance Spokesperson Claire Hanna MLA is urging
06/01/2017
David Walsh Civil Engineering Ltd has signed a deal with Irish Water to improve and upgrade the water infrastructure in Drogheda, Co Louth. The €3.2million scheme includes the replacement and rehabilitation of 6km of old water mains in Drogheda town and the surrounding areas. The investment will i
06/01/2017
Construction work on a new £85million Inpatient Ward Block (IWB) at the Ulster Hospital inn Belfast has been completed. The GRAHAM-Bam Healthcare Partnership (GBHP) has handed over the keys of the new building, which is the initial phase of the extensive £261m Phase B Redevelopment Programme hospit
06/01/2017
Sinn Féin have given their backing to the emergency housing plan launched by campaign group Home Sweet Home, who are currently occupying Apollo House in Dublin city centre. Giving his support to the newly published plan, Sinn Féin housing spokesperson, Eoin Ó Broin TD, said: "The emergency housing
06/01/2017
Energy firm NIE Networks has issued a warning to people who are flying drones to keep away from power lines and substations. The aircrafts could cause damage to the electricity network as they fly at great heights and speeds. A spokesperson from the firm said: "If one of these drones was to strike
06/01/2017
A proposal to build a single-storey club house for Dergview Football club has been supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council. Plans for Darragh Park in Castlederg include community space, new changing facilities and toilets, a covered terrace, two new turnstile buildings, a new toilet b
06/01/2017
Planning permission has been approved to transform office accommodation into apartments in L'Derry. The premises, at 18-20 Bishop Street, will see the first and second floor of the building refurbished into 10 apartments. The plans were submitted by Green Homes (NI) Ltd and approved by members of
06/01/2017
A housing association in Northern Ireland has been shortlisted for two Annual Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Awards. Choice Housing has been featured in two categories; promoting integration and excellence in developing skills and capacity. The firm's supported housing project at the Maples
06/01/2017
Sinn Fein has slammed the Department for Agriculture for failing to make GLAS payments to approximately 10,000 farmers in Ireland. The Green Low-Carbon Agri-Environment Scheme (GLAS) offers payments for applicants who carry out actions to enhance the rural environment. Senator Rose Conway-Walsh sa
06/01/2017
Increasing afforestation will likely play a crucial role in helping Ireland meet its climate change commitments, according to Fianna Fail. Spokesperson on Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Timmy Dooley, has called on farmers and landowners to consider forestry as a means of diversifyi
05/01/2017
The Labour Party is urging councils to fight against litter and dumping throughout Ireland. Mr Joe Costello was speaking after results from the Irish Business against Litter (IBAL) survey revealed a rise in the levels of litter in 2016. Mr Costello said: "It is particularly disappointing that the
05/01/2017
Essential maintenance work has started at the Tower Museum in Co L'Derry. The Museum has closed until 16 January as refurbishment works are being carried out on the floor and public reception area. Museums Services manager Michelle Murray said: "The Museum will be closed for a short time in the Ne
05/01/2017
Sinn Fein has reiterated its call to abolish domestic water charges. The party's spokesperson on water Eoin Ó Bróin also urged Housing Minister Simon Coveney to "butt out" of water committee work. He said: "The cross party committee was set up by the government to make recommendations based on the
05/01/2017
Applications for the new 'Help-to-Buy' scheme are now open. However, Fianna Fáil Finance Spokesperson Michael McGrath, said the new scheme on house prices will have to be "carefully monitored" as part of an independent impact assessment due to be completed by the end of September 2017. He said: "D
05/01/2017
Choice Housing in Northern Ireland has secured a position among the UK's best providers of sheltered housing. The 10,000-home landlord gained accreditation from the Centre for Housing Support (CHS) for meeting rigorous Service Excellence Standards (SES) criteria in its management of 60 schemes acro
05/01/2017
The Irish Government is being urged to consider restricting heavily polluting vehicles from Irish urban centres. The party made the announcement after new research revealed a link between major traffic proximity and dementia. The research was published in the Lancet medical journal. Transport Spo
05/01/2017
The UK Government has been called to abandon plans for new nuclear reactors at Moorside in Oldham. SDLP South Down MP Margaret Ritchie made the announcement following a fresh financial crisis facing its majority shareholder. Toshiba saw 40% wiped from the company's value over the past week. She
05/01/2017
Fine Gael has been accused of "turning its back" on rural Ireland. Fianna Fáil TD for Mayo Dara Calleary was responding to reports that the new National Planning Framework has earmarked a number of regional cities for economic investment and development, but fails to put a strategy in place for rur
04/01/2017
Dublin City Council is being urged to take more action on vacant sites in the city. The Green Party made the call after a new law requiring planning authorities to establish a Vacant Sites Register comes into effect. However, while Dublin City Council and other Planning Authorities have published
04/01/2017
Contractor Dawson Wam has completed work on a £2 million water pipeline project in Cookstown, Co Tyrone. The Carland to Cookstown Water Trunk Main will improve the local water supply infrastructure, as well as the security of the water supply in Cookstown and the surrounding areas. The project, wh
04/01/2017
Motorists are being warned to expect possible traffic disruption as construction work to connect the new Millenium Way Extension in Lurgan is to begin on Monday, 09 January. The temporary traffic management required to carry out the works safely will consist of a number of road closures and localis
04/01/2017
A boil water notice in Co Galway, which was issued in November 2015, has been lifted. Customers on the Kilconnell Public Water Supply and the Ballyboggon Group Water Scheme can now resume normal use of the water supply with immediate effect. The notice affected around 23,000 people. The Kilconnel
04/01/2017
A draft framework to develop a Climate Change Adaption approach for the transport sector in Ireland has been published for consultation. Climate Change Adaptation refers to how Ireland will plan for the negative effects of climate change and take suitable action to prevent or minimise damage it cau
04/01/2017
Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) tenants are being urged to allow contractors access to properties to carry out annual safety checks on gas boilers. A spokesperson from the NIHE said: "As a landlord, we have a legal obligation to carry out an annual gas safety check. Gas safety in the home
04/01/2017
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council has opened a public consultation over the future of the Fernhill Estate and Gardens in Stepaside. Fine Gael Dublin Rathdown Senator, Neale Richmond, said Fernhill could be a "world class park". Mr Richmon said: "Acquired by the County Council in recent years,
04/01/2017
Euro Auctions, Europe's largest auctioneers of industrial plant, construction machinery and agricultural equipment, has been appointed by S.J. Woodward and C.P. Dempster of Ernst & Young LLP, the Joint Administrators, to dispose of the cranes and general construction equipment assets of the hire com
03/01/2017
A construction firm in Northern Ireland has been selected to carry out work on a £1 million regeneration scheme in Holywood, Co Down. Northstone (NI) Limited Material Division was appointed by Ards and North Down Borough Council and the work in Redburn Square is expected to be completed towards the
03/01/2017
A total of €250,000 in funding has been allocated to upgrade Russborough House in Co Wicklow. Match funding has also been secured from the Apollo Trust in the UK. The Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys, said: "More than 100,000 people have visited
03/01/2017
Construction work has started on a £200,000 resurfacing scheme in Omagh, Co Tyrone. The work on the Donaghanie Road is expected to take around two weeks to complete. A full closure of the stretch of the B158 Donaghanie Road will be in place for two weeks starting on Tuesday, 10 January. Infrastru
03/01/2017
Design plans are currently being put together to upgrade the wastewater network in the Lower Liffey Valley region in Ireland. The proposed Irish Water project will include the construction of approximately 8km of twin 500mm rising mains from Leixlip Wastewater treatment plant to the 9C trunk sewer
03/01/2017
Housing Minister Simon Coveney has been slammed over the rise in the number of homeless people in Ireland. Figures from the Department of Housing Homeless Report for November revealed that the total number of people experiencing homelessness almost reached 7,000 for the first time. Sinn Féin Housi
03/01/2017
The SDLP is urging Sinn Fein to support a call for an independent, judge-led inquiry to be carried out over the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scandal. SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone made the call following contradictory positions from Sinn Féin on their plan to achieve transparency and accounta
03/01/2017
Concerns have been raised after two homeless people died in Belfast over Christmas. Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey said there is an urgent need for local councils, the Housing Executive and housing associations, and others to work collectively to tackle the problem. Mr Maskey said: "There is no doubt t
03/01/2017
Euro Auctions, Europe's leading auctioneers of industrial plant, construction equipment and agricultural machinery, has acquired one of the USA's oldest and most respected heavy machinery auctioneers, Yoder & Frey, founded 52 years ago and the originators of the now famous annual Kissimmee winter c
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