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CIOB to Host Networking Event for Construction Professionals in Belfast

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The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is kicking off 2025 with its highly anticipated Meet the CIOB event, set to take place on 29 January 2025 at the Europa Hotel in Belfast. Running from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM, this free networking event is a unique opportunity for construction professionals, students, and exhibitors to connect, learn, and explore the benefits of CIOB membership.

What to Expect

The event promises a packed morning of activities designed to engage and inform attendees:

  • Networking Opportunities: Meet the Northern Ireland Hub Committee, Tomorrow’s Leaders Representatives, Champions, and CIOB staff.
  • Exhibitor Showcase: Explore stands featuring industry-leading organizations, including event sponsor Hays.
  • Informative Presentations: Gain insights from an expert panel featuring CIOB leaders such as Chair Johnathan Payne FCIOB, Vice Chair Yvonne Conway MCIOB, and Public & Policy Manager Joseph Kilroy.

Spotlight on Future Talent

A key highlight this year is the attendance of 70-80 school and college students, offering them a firsthand look at career opportunities in construction. By engaging with professionals and exhibitors, these aspiring industry leaders will gain valuable insights into the field.

Event Agenda

  • 8:00 AM: Exhibitions open with light refreshments served.
  • 11:00 AM: Presentation session featuring expert speakers and panel discussions.
  • 1:30 PM: Exhibitions close.

The event will also feature membership clinics, mentoring opportunities, and resources to help attendees maximize their involvement with CIOB.

Why Attend?

Whether you’re an established professional or a newcomer considering a career in construction, Meet the CIOB offers something for everyone. Attendees can:

  • Learn about pathways to chartership and company membership.
  • Discover CIOB’s training, webinars, and mentoring services.
  • Explore how CIOB supports its members through advocacy and resources.

Event Details

Date: 29 January 2025
Location: Europa Hotel, Belfast
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Fees: Free for members and non-members

Contact and Registration

For more information, contact Julie Fitzsimmons, CIOB Member Services and Event Coordinator, at jfitzsimmons@ciob.org.uk or 07760164101.

This open-house event is a must-attend for anyone passionate about the construction industry. Don’t miss the chance to network with professionals, engage with exhibitors, and discover how the CIOB can support your career development.

Northern Ireland’s Construction Output Surges by 10.5%: AECOM Annual Review 2025

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Press Eye Photography Tuesday 14th January 2025 Photo by William Cherry / Press Eye Northern Ireland’s Construction Output Surges by 10.5%: AECOM Annual Review 2025 BELFAST (January 16, 2025) — Northern Ireland enters 2025 with optimism and momentum, underpinned by political stability, long-term government strategies, and a steadier economic environment, according to AECOM — the trusted global infrastructure leader that provides professional services across a range of sectors in Northern Ireland. The organisation’s eagerly anticipated Ireland Annual Review 2025 highlights the region’s standout performance across key sectors, forecasts for the year ahead and calls for continued strategic, programmatic thinking to sustain progress. Pictured is Jody Wilkinson, AECOM’s Northern Ireland Director. ENDS//

BELFAST (January 16, 2025) — Northern Ireland enters 2025 with optimism and momentum, underpinned by political stability, long-term government strategies, and a steadier economic environment, according to AECOM — the trusted global infrastructure leader that provides professional services across a range of sectors in Northern Ireland.

The organisation’s eagerly anticipated Ireland Annual Review 2025 highlights the region’s standout performance across key sectors, forecasts for the year ahead and calls for continued strategic, programmatic thinking to sustain progress.

“Northern Ireland has shown remarkable resilience and growth, outperforming all other UK regions with a 10.5% increase in annual construction output,” says Jody Wilkinson, AECOM’s Northern Ireland Director. “This trend looks set to continue in the coming year, as Northern Ireland breaks free from its short-term economic mindset. With longer-term comprehensive spending plans on the horizon, the construction sector is kicking off 2025 in a stronger, more stable position than a year ago. With projects in Northern Ireland being integrated into all-island programmes of long-term work, there is the potential for a more joined-up approach to infrastructure planning and delivery.”

Key Findings

The report reveals a 10.5% annual rise in construction output from Q2 2023 to Q2 2024, driven by a 6.3% increase in new work and a 17.7% surge in repair and maintenance year on year. Tender price inflation stabilised at 1.8% in 2024, following two years of unusually high rates, with a predicted rise to 2.5% in 2025, aligning with broader economic trends.

Export strengths also stood out, with Northern Ireland continuing its long-standing capabilities in docks-based physical exports. Strong performance in plant, machinery, and vehicle production reflects the region’s ability to adapt to global decarbonisation demands.

Tourism potential remains significant too, with cross-border tourism between ROI and NI more than tripling over the past decade, presenting considerable opportunities for collaboration and economic growth.

Environmental progress was another highlight. The report notes a 3% decrease in CO2 emissions in 2022 compared to 2021, contributing to a longer-term reduction of 26.4% since 1990. Local councils and businesses are leading efforts to achieve net-zero targets.

Areas for Improvement

Dampening the good news was the housing construction sector’s 5% decline in 2024, attributed to ageing drainage and wastewater infrastructure, which has been identified as the primary bottleneck for housebuilding. AECOM calls for targeted investment in these systems to unlock significant market potential.

Biodiversity also emerged as a key focus area in 2024, with opportunities for collaboration and technology to enhance Northern Ireland’s natural and built habitats.

Further Sectoral Highlights

Further progress was noted across several other sectors. In healthcare work is set to begin this year on the new Children’s Hospital in Belfast.

In education significant investment is anticipated this year, with tenders for multiple new schools expected, paving the way for sectoral growth over the next decade.

Belfast city centre retail and hospitality benefited from a 3.7% year-on-year increase in footfall, boosting investor confidence. June 2024 marked a record-breaking month for Belfast hotels, with revenue per available room reaching an all-time high.

AECOM emphasises the need for a programmatic approach, which is described as a series of interconnected projects that align under common objectives to maximise impact. It says strategic long-term planning, political leadership, and cross-sector collaboration are essential for achieving cost efficiencies and enduring benefits.

“Infrastructure needs champions – political and otherwise – to drive a joined-up approach,” Mr Wilkinson continued. “Northern Ireland has proven its resilience. Now it’s time to take that forward-thinking attitude and embed it in our planning and delivery to ensure a prosperous, sustainable future.”

MCHALE PLANT SALES PUTS NEW YEAR ‘SPOTLIGHT’ ON LATEST KOMATSU WHEEL LOADERS

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A happy new 2025 awaits wheel loader buyers and Komatsu WA model owners in the aggregates and quarrying sectors thanks to the many features and enhancements that latest generation Dash-11 Komatsu WA475-11 and WA485-11 wheel loaders bring.

That’s according to McHale Plant Sales director, Denis McGrath, whose pitch on behalf of Komatsu includes the promise of “a galaxy of tech and equipment upgrades, the biggest being double-digit fuel savings – 14% lower in the WA475-11 and a whopping 29% lower in the WA485-11 – when compared to the models they replace.”

Contrasting the new WA models with their Dash-10 predecessors, McGrath says: “The improvements, production benefits and fuel cost savings that owners and newcomers to Komatsu will experience with our new WA models are such that we will be going all-out to fill our model allocation and equip buyers as quickly as we can.”

“To that end, we welcome expressions of interest from all existing WA model owners and interested buyers with the promise of an offering in the mould of Komatsu that will combine can-do competitive pricing, constructive financing packages, after-sale assurances, and positivity in relation to trade-ins.”

Major enhancements include hydro-mechanical transmission; superior performance with power reserves and ease of operation in all transport and loading tasks; significant upgrades in payload and bucket capacity – extendable to reduce loading cycles in aggregates-handling situations; and variable gear ratio, speed, and variable traction control.

Other advances forming part of Komatsu’s new WA twin model offering include EU Stage V compliant emissions control, better particulate and emissions capture, a boost in lifting speed, power, and tonnes-per-hour production rate, with automatic bucket filling and other ‘fatigue-reducing’ functions that help operators to maintain productivity, even during long shifts.

Conscious of operator comfort, other changes include a more spacious driver-friendly cab with lower noise; all-round glazing, air seating, heated rear window angled to prevent dirt sticking; easier and safer cab entry, and engine maintenance access.

NI Housing Market Ends Year on a Positive Note, and Expectations Are for Growth in Q1 as Stamp Duty Changes Approach

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RICS and Ulster Bank Residential Market Survey NI – December 2024

Northern Ireland’s housing market ended 2024 with sales, prices, and expectations rising, according to the latest Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and Ulster Bank Residential Market Survey. However, surveyors reported that supply levels fell flat through the final month of the year, which may act as a counterweight to activity in the early part of 2025.

On the pricing front, a net balance of 72% of respondents in NI reported that prices rose through December, up from 67% the month previous. And going forward, NI surveyors expect prices to continue rising as a net balance of 65% of respondents anticipate that prices will increase through the first quarter of 2025.

Demand from potential buyers also continued to rise through December, although at a slower rate than seen previously. A net balance of 7% of NI respondents reported a rise in new buyer enquiries.

With regard to sales, a net balance of 19% of respondents in NI reported that sales rose through December, which is down from 22% in November but above the UK average of 7%. NI surveyors also remain optimistic on the sales outlook, with a net balance of 37% of respondents anticipating sales to rise through the first quarter of the new year.

That’s despite the number of instructions to sell having fallen flat. Whilst there was evidence of more properties coming onto the market in previous months, this appears to have slowed in December as new instructions to sell fell flat through December, down from 5% in November and 32% in October.

Samuel Dickey, RICS Northern Ireland Residential Property Spokesman, comments:
“Overall 2024 was a positive year for the housing market in NI, and it’s encouraging to see surveyors remaining positive on the outlook through the first few months of 2025. Surveyors anticipate an increase in market activity in the earlier months of the year ahead of Stamp Duty changes in April. A lack of houses coming onto the market could temper this, but more buyers could be tempted to list their homes due to strong market demand.”

Terry Robb, Head of Personal Banking at Ulster Bank, says:
“As we move into 2025, Ulster Bank is strongly committed to supporting homebuyers and remortgagers with our enhanced product ranges, and green mortgage offering. Last year ended well with good demand in December, and we expect this to continue in the year ahead, particularly before any changes to current stamp duty levels come into effect in April.”

UK House Prices Rebound with 3.3% Rise: Insights from ASK Partners CEO

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Commenting on the latest UK House Price Index from the Land Registry showing property prices have risen by 3.3%, Daniel Austin, CEO and co-founder at ASK Partners, said:

“This rise in house prices marks a rebound from the unexpected recent fall. However, we believe this signals that growth this year is likely to face pressure and remain steady, as higher borrowing costs start to affect buyers, despite the market’s continued resilience.

Investors and developers in the residential sector remain motivated by the supply-demand imbalance, and under the new government, we think there will be more projects that get off the ground.

We are seeing a greater variety of housing options, such as co-living schemes, coming to market which fulfill the growing requirements of younger professional buyers. If prices flatten and interest rates start to fall, we will see more first-time buyers able to step onto the property ladder.”

Ecoblend® – Pioneering Sustainable Aggregates in Construction

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Ecoblend, developed by Day Group, emerges as a pioneering brand leading the charge towards sustainable aggregates in construction projects. Currently distributed by Day Aggregates and GRS Roadstone, Ecoblend is set to transform materials resourcing in the construction industry.

With a focus on eco-conscious practices, Ecoblend delivers customers the opportunity to utilise sustainable manufactured aggregates, spearheading a shift towards environmentally responsible materials. The range includes crushed concrete, crushed asphalt, and a blended aggregate incorporating incinerator bottom ash (IBA).

At its core, Ecoblend champions sustainability through its flagship product, Ecoblend MA. Designed for a multitude of applications, including sub-base construction and road capping, Ecoblend MA represents a modern, sustainable aggregate for Type 1 and 6F5 applications. Blending refined IBA aggregate with natural crushed stone achieves high performance at a lower cost while reducing environmental impact.

This advanced manufacturing process not only diverts waste from landfills but also significantly cuts CO2 emissions. Every tonne of Ecoblend MA purchased saves 231 black bin bags of waste from landfills [1] and reduces the need to quarry finite primary aggregate, thus conserving our precious natural resources.

Embodying its commitment to sustainability, the Ecoblend brand identity visually reinforces its focus on repurposing by-products from demolition, construction, and municipal waste through its trademark, representing supply continuity, the blending process, and the journey towards a circular economy. Complemented by the strapline “Sustainable aggregates for the built environment,” Ecoblend is committed to providing environmentally considerate aggregate solutions for the construction industry.

James Day, Managing Director of Day Group, emphasises:
“Ecoblend epitomises our dedication to catalysing change and embracing sustainability in aggregates. As the industry shifts towards environmentally responsible materials, Ecoblend leads the way, inspiring stakeholders to adopt sustainable solutions.”

To mark its launch, Ecoblend initiates an extensive awareness campaign and unveils a dedicated website offering comprehensive guidance and material calculation tools for customers in the building and construction industry.

Visit www.ecoblend.co.uk for more information.

[1] One tonne of Ecoblend MA is equivalent to three tonnes of municipal waste. Figures are based on waste having an average density of 0.2 kg/l and black bin bags having an average capacity of 60 litres per bag.

IG Masonry Support Backs the Bricklayers of Tomorrow

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Building product manufacturer IG Masonry Support is delighted to help build the skills of the next generation of bricklayers through its sponsorship of the Stephen Burke Academy Bricklaying Workshop in Swadlincote.

On Thursday, 5th December, Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) welcomed teams from IG Masonry Support, along with the Chief Executive of South Derbyshire District Council, Dr. Justin Ives, to officially launch the partnership.

The Stephen Burke Construction Academy (SBCA), located close to the manufacturer’s factory in South Derbyshire, is a purpose-built facility where learners can develop practical skills in realistic working environments. Through this partnership, IG Masonry Support has provided the bricklaying workshop with tools and modern masonry materials, allowing learners to gain industry-recognised qualifications while perfecting their chosen trade in a real-life setting.

A new steelwork rig has been installed at the SBCA, giving students the opportunity to practice building brickwork systems that resemble those used in commercial structures. This advanced setup complements the existing housebuilding elements within the programme, offering a well-rounded skill set.

In addition, IG Masonry Support has donated essential materials, including 25 packs of bricks and an ongoing supply of consumables for workshops, ensuring learners have access to high-quality resources for hands-on learning. Branded T-shirts featuring the logos of IG Masonry Support and BSDC have also been provided for learners. In addition to material donations, IG Masonry Support has offered Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events for both learners and staff, providing valuable opportunities to deepen their knowledge and engage directly with industry experts.

This initiative reflects IG Masonry Support’s dedication to corporate responsibility and community involvement. By partnering with educational institutions, the company aims to inspire the next generation of engineers, construction workers, and bricklayers.

Andy Neal, Managing Director at IG Masonry Support, said:
“We are delighted to partner with the Stephen Burke Academy and support the development of future bricklaying talent. By providing modern tools and materials, we’re ensuring these learners are trained in the latest construction methods, preparing them for successful careers in the industry. This sponsorship aligns perfectly with our commitment to nurturing the communities in which we operate and inspiring the next generation of construction professionals.”

Director of Curriculum, Geraint Davies, added:
“We are grateful to IG Masonry Support for these contributions, which have elevated the quality of our brickwork and masonry programmes. Working with local employers is a key part of our curriculum development, and these relationships play an important role in preparing students for the workforce and helping them develop the practical skills required for successful careers in the construction industry.”

This partnership marks a major step in bridging the gap between education and industry, allowing students to be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the evolving construction sector.

Dr. Justin Ives, Chief Executive of South Derbyshire District Council, said:
“We are delighted to see this partnership between IG Masonry Support and Burton and South Derbyshire College. This collaboration will provide invaluable opportunities for young people in our area to develop the skills they need to succeed in the construction industry. It’s great to see local businesses supporting our community in this way.”

Main Works Approved for Green Transport Hub, Dundee

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McLaughlin & Harvey have been awarded the main construction works at a major new green transport initiative in Dundee.

Councillors accepted their £11.1m bid for the main contract works on Friday.

McLaughlin & Harvey have already undertaken the enabling works at the Bell Street multi-storey car park and will continue transforming it into a Green Transport Hub.

The main works project, delivered as part of SCAPE Scotland’s framework, will include:

  • Installing 350 electrical vehicle charging points supported by a solar panel array on the roof.
  • A battery storage system.
  • Car share spaces.
  • An e-bike hire service.

When completed, the existing ground floor of the car park will be fully pedestrianised and include information points and meeting spaces.

Framework Director at McLaughlin & Harvey, Chris Boyle, commented:

“We are delighted to continue our relationship with Dundee City Council at the new Green Transport Hub. This project has harnessed collaborative engagement through the SCAPE framework to fast-track the design and construction processes to deliver to the Council’s objectives and timescales. The regeneration of the Bell Street area and re-purposing the existing car park into a 21st-century sustainable transport hub for the city centre will help deliver a greener city, providing active travel options for the communities of Dundee.”

Convener of Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure, Cllr Steven Rome, from Dundee City Council, said:

“This project represents an ambitious redevelopment of the car park into a pioneering green transport hub which is designed to help change people’s travel habits for the future.

“It will make a significant contribution towards our goal of creating a greener city made up of strong communities where people feel empowered and safe, and where we are tackling climate change to reach our target of net zero emissions by 2045.

“The hub will accommodate infrastructure to provide people with access to sustainable transport options that improve connectivity and make the city centre greener, safer, and a more attractive place to live, work and visit.”

The area surrounding the car park will include enhanced landscaping with active travel routes designed to accommodate future active travel connections and development.

The Green Transport Hub & Spokes initiative was allocated £14.4 million from the previous UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. An additional £1.6 million for the main works came from Transport Scotland’s Active Travel Infrastructure Fund.

Revolutionising UK Construction: Online AI Training Launches February 2025

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The UK construction sector is set to undergo a significant transformation with the launch of a specialised AI training programme. The AI Construction Training (ACT) modules offer free live sessions designed to equip professionals with the skills necessary to lead AI-driven initiatives, bridging the gap between technological innovation and practical application within the industry. The modules form part of the Innovate UK BridgeAI ‘AI in construction: Skills for the future’ Programme, which is being developed and implemented by Trilateral Research.

The Importance of AI in Construction

Facing challenges such as labour shortages, increasing project complexities, and sustainability demands, the construction industry can significantly benefit from artificial intelligence (AI). AI enhances efficiency, predicts risks, and supports sustainable practices, transforming how construction projects are designed and executed. This programme ensures SME managers are equipped to adopt AI effectively, enabling them to drive innovation and improve their organisations’ competitiveness.

About the Training Modules

ACT comprises four comprehensive modules, each addressing a key aspect of AI adoption and implementation in construction:

  • Data and AI: Understanding the fundamentals
    Attendees will gain a strong foundation in AI and data, exploring their transformative potential and relevance to the construction industry.
  • AI business cases: Securing buy-in
    Attendees will learn how to build compelling business cases for AI adoption, convincing stakeholders of its value and aligning with organisational goals.
  • AI project management: Ensuring success
    Attendees will discover strategies to manage AI projects effectively, from planning to execution, ensuring they deliver measurable results.
  • Responsible AI: Establishing standards
    Attendees will develop an understanding of the ethical and regulatory considerations for AI, establishing robust governance frameworks to ensure responsible implementation.

Programme Highlights

  • Interactive Online Learning: Free online modules offer engaging content, including live sessions and practical exercises, tailored to fit professionals’ requirements.
  • Expert Guidance: Sessions are led by subject matter experts and specialists, offering actionable insights tailored to SMEs.
  • Real-World Case Studies: Learn from successful AI applications within the construction industry, gaining insights applicable to your business.
  • Networking Opportunities: Engage with peers through virtual discussion forums, fostering collaboration and idea-sharing across the sector.
  • Resource Toolkit: Participants gain knowledge of practical, open access sources, and additional reading material.

Expert Endorsements

“These modules are a timely and essential resource for SME managers looking to embrace the future of construction,” said Sara El-Hanfy, Head of AI & Machine Learning, Innovate UK. “By offering practical tools and knowledge, we aim to empower construction professionals to drive meaningful change through AI.”

Launch Details

The first cohort of ACT will run throughout February and March 2025, with registrations now open. The fully online format ensures accessibility for professionals across the UK, allowing participants to enhance their skills without disrupting their work commitments.

How to Register

Spaces are limited to maintain a high-quality learning experience. For more information and to secure your place, visit https://aiconstructiontraining.com.

Hagan Homes Proudly Sponsors Irish International Swimmer Grace Davison Fresh from Her Olympic Debut

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The two-year partnership will support the athlete’s training efforts as she gears up for more competitions

Ballyclare-based Hagan Homes has announced its sponsorship of Grace Davison, the Irish International Swimmer from Bangor, who made her Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Games.

The partnership will see Hagan Homes support Grace over the next two years, providing essential funding towards her training and development as she prepares for the next Olympic Games, in Los Angeles, 2028.

Grace, who trains with Ards Swimming Club and splits her time between the Ards Leisure Centre and Bangor Aurora, has been making waves in the international swimming scene since the age of 14. Her impressive track record includes seven Irish Junior Records, two Ulster Senior Records, eleven Ulster Junior Records, three Irish Senior Relay Records, and two Ulster Senior Relay Records.

At just 17 years old, she has already represented Ireland and Northern Ireland on multiple prestigious platforms, including the Commonwealth Games, European Championships, and World Swimming Championships.

The partnership between Hagan Homes and Grace is built on shared values of commitment, determination, and the pursuit of excellence, Founder and Chair of Hagan Homes, James Hagan said.

He added, “We are incredibly proud to support Grace as she continues to excel in her swimming career. Her dedication to her sport and her achievements at such a young age are truly inspiring. At Hagan Homes, we believe in nurturing talent and supporting our local communities. Grace embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence that we value, and we are excited to be part of her journey towards the next Olympics.”

Grace’s recent performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics showcased her potential on the world stage. Competing in the Women’s 4×100 Medley Relay, her team finished 13th overall, setting a new Irish Senior Record.

Grace said, “Competing at the Paris Olympics was a dream come true and an incredible learning experience. Setting a new Irish Senior Record with my teammates in the 4×100 Medley Relay was a proud moment, and it has fuelled my determination to continue improving and representing Ireland on the global stage. I’m already focused on the next four years, with my sights set on the Los Angeles Games in 2028.”

The sponsorship from Hagan Homes will be instrumental in Grace’s preparations for upcoming competitions, the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow and the next Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. The funding will help her access essential support services, including coaching, strength and conditioning, dietetics, physiotherapy, sports psychology, and physiology, which are crucial for competing at the highest level.

Speaking about the partnership, Grace said, “I am so grateful to Hagan Homes for their support over the next two years. This sponsorship will make a significant difference in my ability to train and compete at the highest level. Having the backing of a respected local company like Hagan Homes means a lot to me, and I’m excited to represent them as I work towards my goals in swimming.”

Grace’s dedication to her sport is evident in her numerous accomplishments, including a gold medal in the 400 Individual Medley and a silver in the 200 Individual Medley at the 2023 Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad, as well as a bronze medal in the 100 Freestyle at the 2024 European Junior Championships in Lithuania.

Her achievements highlight her as one of Ireland’s brightest swimming talents, and with the support of Hagan Homes, she is well-positioned to continue her upward trajectory in the sport.

James Hagan added, “We are delighted to play a part in her journey and look forward to celebrating her future successes. Supporting local talent like Grace is at the heart of what we do, and we are excited to see what the future holds for her.”

Photo by Stephen Hamilton/Press Eye
Pictured is Grace Davison.

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