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Eco-Plastics Manufacturer RE-KKUR Receives £3.75m Investment from Whiterock

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Fermanagh-based manufacturer, RE-KKUR, has secured a £3.75m funding package to accelerate growth by investing in new product development and enhancing production facilities.

RE-KKUR is a leader in the plaster bead market, developing and manufacturing innovative products using recyclate PVC for the construction sector. The business now produces almost 10 million metres of plastic building products per year and employs 35 people. All RE-KKUR’s products are made from its own recycled plastic, RE-22, a versatile raw material, putting the business at the forefront of construction sustainability.

Having availed of a series of debt funding rounds from Whiterock totaling nearly £1 million over the past decade, the latest funding package of £3.75m is comprised of equity investment from Whiterock’s Growth Capital Fund and debt finance from the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland, also managed by Whiterock. This funding will enable RE-KKUR to make a significant investment into its production facilities.

Using newly installed bespoke extrusion lines with high-speed tooling, RE-KKUR is scaling production to more than 25 million metres of plastic building products per year and increasing recyclate production to over 5,000 tonnes annually.

Vincent McCoy, Managing Director at RE-KKUR, said:

“The demand for homegrown, sustainable products within the construction industry is growing and RE-KKUR is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. The investment from Whiterock enables us to grow our production capabilities, helping to create more jobs and develop an export market from our base in Fermanagh.”

Chris Trotter, Investment Director at Whiterock, said:

“We are pleased to be further investing in RE-KKUR as they meet increasing market demand for eco-friendly construction products. Whiterock looks forward to helping the team reach their next milestones by increasing production and supporting their product development pipeline.”

RE-KKUR uses recycled PVC plastic supplied through its materials partner and subsidiary Jaguar Polymers. This results in a 100% closed-loop waste processing to production process and has enabled them to create various sustainable products. For example, the new ‘Eco Bead’, a carbon-negative product, will help offset the carbon footprint of the construction industry and its products.

Ensuring Reliable Power: Star Power’s Comprehensive Solution for Yeovil Hospital’s MRI Installation and Construction Projects

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Project Overview

Apollo Building Contractors, tasked with constructing a new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) unit at Yeovil Hospital, required a dependable temporary power solution to support the MRI coolers during a three-month period while the main electrical infrastructure was being installed. Given the sensitivity of MRI machines and their susceptibility to power disruptions, ensuring a stable power supply was critical to prevent operational downtime and potential equipment damage.

Challenge

The primary challenge was to deliver consistent and reliable power to the MRI unit’s cooling systems, mitigating the risk of power trips that could adversely affect the sensitive and expensive medical equipment. Additionally, the solution needed to accommodate the high power demands of the MRI unit during peak operational periods, such as cooling cycles, without causing interruptions.

Solution

After conducting a comprehensive site survey and consulting closely with Apollo Building Contractors, Star Power provided a tailored power solution comprising:

  • Two 200kVA generators
  • A Dunarey Flybrid unit

The Flybrid system, which stores energy mechanically in a rapidly spinning flywheel, is known for its ability to smooth out power fluctuations and deliver high bursts of energy when required. This configuration ensured that the MRI unit received uninterrupted power, eliminating the need for oversized generators and enhancing overall efficiency during the construction work.

Benefits of the Solution

  • Enhanced Power Stability:
    The integration of the Flybrid unit effectively managed power fluctuations, providing the necessary bursts of energy during peak demands and ensuring the MRI unit operated without interruptions.
  • Efficiency and Reliability:
    By utilising appropriately sized generators in conjunction with the Flybrid system, the solution offered a robust and efficient power supply, crucial for the operation of sensitive medical equipment whilst supporting the power needs of the ongoing construction project.
  • Client Satisfaction:
    Apollo Building Contractors expressed their satisfaction with Star Power’s expertise and the seamless implementation of the power solution, noting the absence of power losses throughout the project’s duration.

Client Feedback

“We are extremely pleased with the support and expertise provided by Star Power during our MRI installation project at Yeovil Hospital. Their expertise in delivering a reliable power solution truly set them apart. The use of the Flybrid unit ensured that our MRI coolers received stable power and significantly reduced the risk of downtime, which is critical given the sensitive nature of this medical equipment. Star Power’s team was thorough in their consultation, ensuring that all our specific needs were met while maintaining a seamless installation process. Their commitment to our project was evident, and the outcome exceeded our expectations – there was no loss of power throughout the entire duration of our operations. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Star Power on future projects, confident in their ability to deliver reliable and efficient solutions.”
— Apollo Building Contractors, Yeovil Hospital

Outcome

Star Power’s provision of a reliable temporary power solution ensured that the MRI installation and associated construction tasks at Yeovil Hospital proceeded without any power-related disruptions. The success of this project has reinforced the partnership between Star Power and Apollo Building Contractors, with prospects for future collaborations on similar projects.

For more information about Star Power’s temporary power solutions, please contact Star Power or visit our website.

Revolutionizing Hospitality: A UK-First Treehouse Hotel in Oxfordshire

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At the heart of Oxfordshire, a ground-breaking project is redefining sustainable tourism. Oasis Habitats, a leader in innovative design and construction, has brought the UK’s first treehouse hotel to life for Treedwellers. This extraordinary development, featured in the December issue of Premier Hospitality magazine (pages 14-18), exemplifies the future of eco-friendly luxury.

A Vision Rooted in Sustainability

This unique treehouse hotel wasn’t just built—it was thoughtfully crafted with sustainability at its core. From concept to completion, every detail reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact:

  • Proprietary CLT Cassette Systems: The main treehouse structures are constructed using Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) systems that deliver strength, durability, and exceptional insulation.
  • Eco-Friendly Insulation: Flax and hemp insulation not only meet but exceed UK building standards, offering a high-performance, sustainable alternative to traditional materials.
  • Innovative Materials: Fully recyclable aluminium circular cladding and advanced vapor barriers showcase how modern materials can align with green building practices.

Blending Design and Functionality

The treehouses serve as more than just accommodations; they’re a testament to what’s possible when creativity meets eco-consciousness. Each structure integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings, offering guests an immersive experience while demonstrating the potential of sustainable architecture.

A Milestone in Hospitality

This project is more than a UK-first—it’s a world-first in its design and approach. By meeting and surpassing stringent UK building codes, it sets a new benchmark for how the hospitality industry can embrace sustainability without compromising on luxury or aesthetics.

Featured in Premier Hospitality

For a closer look, the December issue of Premier Hospitality magazine features stunning photography of the project and insightful details about its design and construction. Oasis Habitats’ advert and advertorial on pages 17 and 18 provide additional context for this remarkable achievement.

Inspiring the Future of Travel

The Treedwellers treehouse hotel is a shining example of how the tourism and construction industries can work hand-in-hand to protect the planet. It’s a call to action for developers, architects, and hoteliers to prioritize sustainability in every project.

Explore More

To learn more about this pioneering project, explore Premier Hospitality magazine or contact Oasis Habitats for additional details.

Let’s celebrate a future where luxury, innovation, and sustainability coexist harmoniously.

LANDMARK START TO 2025 AS JCB’S HYDROGEN ENGINE APPROVED FOR USE

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JCB has cleared significant hurdles in its development of the world’s first hydrogen combustion engine after securing landmark rulings from licensing authorities allowing it to be used commercially in machines, the company announced today.

JCB is the first construction equipment company to develop a fully working combustion engine fuelled by hydrogen, and a team of 150 engineers has been working on the exciting £100 million development for over three years.

Today, JCB confirmed that 11 licensing authorities across Europe have now given permission for JCB’s hydrogen engine to be sold across Europe – with authorities in other countries set to follow suit with certification in 2025.

JCB Chairman Anthony Bamford, who has led the company’s hydrogen engine project, said:

“This is a very significant moment for JCB. To start the New Year with certification in place in so many European countries bodes very well for the future of hydrogen combustion technology. JCB has proved in recent years that it is a proper zero emissions solution for construction and agricultural equipment.

“This formal type approval/certification paves the way for the sale and use of hydrogen engines right across the UK and Europe. I couldn’t have hoped for a better start to the year. Most of all, I am delighted for our team of British engineers who have worked tirelessly to reach this stage.”

JCB confirmed that the Netherlands’ Vehicle Authority RDW was the first licensing authority to issue official certification, giving permission for the engine to be sold in The Netherlands. Other licensing bodies across Europe have followed RDW’s lead by issuing the necessary certification, including Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Finland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Licensing authorities in other countries are set to follow with certification during 2025.

JCB has already produced more than 130 evaluation engines, which are powering backhoe loaders, Loadall telescopic handlers, and generator sets. Real-world testing of JCB’s hydrogen equipment on customers’ sites is now at an advanced stage and progressing well.

Captions:

  • Lord Bamford receives official certification from RDW officials André van de Visser and Marc Feijen, allowing the sale of hydrogen combustion engines in The Netherlands.
  • Lord Bamford pictured with JCB’s hydrogen combustion engine.

HENRY BROTHERS DIRECTOR APPOINTED HIGH SHERIFF OF LONDONDERRY

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Ian Henry MBE, CR Director at leading construction company Henry Brothers, has been appointed the new High Sheriff of Londonderry.

The Chain of Office was recently presented to Ian by the Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Tanya Stirling, at a ceremony held in Council’s Civic Headquarters, Cloonavin.

Commenting on the appointment, Ian said:

“It is an honour to be named the High Sheriff of Londonderry and I am grateful to have the opportunity to connect and engage with local charities, community groups, and businesses to enhance the area in which we call home.

“Throughout my career, I am fortunate to have worked with a number of these groups already and am pleased that I will be able to build on these relationships further over the next 12 months.”

Ian, who has previously held the role of President of the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, was awarded an MBE in 2023 for outstanding contribution to economy and charity in Northern Ireland.

Speaking after the handover, Councillor Stirling said:

“I am delighted to see Ian appointed to the role of High Sheriff. I wish him every success for the year ahead, and I have no doubt he will be a fantastic ambassador for the Borough.”

For more information, visit henrybrothers.co.uk

Unique has Vision

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Unique, the multi-award-winning supplier of UPVC and aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has extended its product range.

With immediate effect, the business will fabricate COR Vision aluminium sliding patio doors from CORTIZO – the vertically integrated Spanish manufacturer respected around the world for the premium quality and stunning aesthetics of its systems.

COR Vision patio doors offer an almost frameless appearance thanks to their ultra-slim profiles, which have sightlines measuring just 20mm.

This frame-free look is further enhanced by the fact that door rails can be fully incorporated into the floor, while top and lateral frames can be embedded into the walls surrounding the door aperture. COR Vision can also include 90-degree corners without the need for a mullion.

Other benefits include good acoustic insulation, high levels of security, and a U-value of 1.3 W/m²K. This means COR Vision complies with Approved Document Part L for use on existing properties.

COR Vision also offers impressive design flexibility. Doors can be created using 2, 3, 4, and 6 sashes, with single, double, or triple tracks, and to fit openings measuring up to 13.2 metres wide and 3 metres tall.

Commenting on the introduction of COR Vision, Mir Patel, Aluminium Operations Manager at Unique, said: “Unique has fabricated a number of CORTIZO products since November 2023, including CORTIZO casement windows, bifold doors, and the 4700 sliding door system.

“Since we introduced these lines, they’ve proved incredibly popular, and by extending our range with COR Vision, we’re looking to build on that. We’ll be able to offer customers an additional choice of patio door that combines stunning aesthetics with some equally attractive functional benefits.”

Cement Factory Takes Hard Look at Drainage System to Protect Environment

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A specialist team from Lanes Drainage Services UK is carrying out a full-site CCTV drainage survey as part of planned maintenance at a large cement factory.

Drainage engineers from the Lanes Chester depot are carrying out the site investigation at the Padeswood cement works near Mold, Flintshire, North Wales.

They will create a drainage map for foul and surface water systems, detailing the makeup and condition of all drainage assets on the site.

Rachael Humphreys, Sustainability Analyst at Heidelberg Materials UK, which owns the cement works, said:
“It’s important that our drainage systems are maintained to a high standard.
We have a statutory responsibility to ensure no potential contaminants leave our site, and clearly one of the key pathways for this to happen would be through the drainage system.
The survey report provided by Lanes will allow us to plan future maintenance tasks and to demonstrate we are meeting our regulatory responsibilities.”

Lanes is deploying a CCTV drainage survey unit supported by a jet vac tanker at the site, which has been used to manufacture cement for over 70 years and is one of the area’s main employers.

The pipe system on the site is a mix of clay and concrete pipes with diameters ranging from 150mm to 900mm, plus slot drainage.

Surface water is channelled into a 35,000-litre oil and petrol interceptor before being stored in a large lagoon on the site.

Only water tested and proven to meet standards set by National Resources Wales can be released into a brook that runs past the site.

Process water is managed separately, with some of it recycled into the manufacturing system.

Sian Wyn Jones, Area Development Manager at Lanes Chester, said:
“Heidelberg Materials UK is doing exactly the right thing in assessing the condition of its drainage system.
It’s best practice to carry out regular site surveys as part of planned preventative maintenance. Only then can clear priorities be set for ongoing maintenance and remediation.
This is even more important with climate change making weather more volatile.
More frequent periods of heavy rainfall associated with global warming could increase the risk of blockage problems and flash flooding, especially if the drain lines are not regularly cleaned.”

During the full-site drainage survey, which will be completed over a number of visits, the jet vac tanker will be used to remove silt and other waste material from drain lines. This will leave them clear and ready to be surveyed.

The CCTV drainage survey team uses two remote access camera systems. One is a push-rod system with a mini camera attached to the end of a flexible rod that can be pushed into narrow-diameter pipes.

The other is a wheeled robotic crawler camera that can be sent along pipes.

Both systems record HD colour video to show the structure and condition of pipes and allow the location along a pipe of any contamination or defects to be plotted.

New Bobcat Forklifts and Warehouse Equipment at LogiMAT

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Exhibition: LogiMAT 2025
Venue: Stuttgart Trade Fair Centre, Stuttgart, Germany
Date: 11-13 March 2025
Stand No: Hall 9, Stand No B57

New Bobcat Forklifts and Warehouse Equipment at LogiMAT

Bobcat will be presenting two major new developments at LogiMAT 2025 as part of a comprehensive display of the company’s material handling product lines, including diesel and electric forklifts, reach trucks, and warehouse equipment such as pallet trucks and stackers.

Bobcat will be showing two new developments in the range, including:

  • New Class 3 warehouse equipment range
  • New series of Li-ION 3-wheel counterbalance forklifts

New Class 3 Warehouse Equipment

At LogiMAT 2025, Bobcat is adding to its warehouse equipment portfolio with three new product series. In addition, the company’s current LSM12N-7 and BSL12/16N-7 stackers are now available in initial lift versions. The new warehouse products will also be available with Li-ION batteries from production.

New warehouse product series:

  • BPM16/20N-7: Pedestrian powered pallet trucks: 1.6 & 2 t capacity
  • BPR20/25N-7: Powered pallet trucks with platform: 2 & 2.5 t capacity
  • BSR12/16N-7: Powered platform stacker trucks: 1.2 & 1.6 t capacity
  • BSR16N-7i: Powered platform stacker truck with initial lift: 1.6 t capacity

The new BPM16/20N-7 pallet trucks are the perfect match for all kinds of applications in and around SMEs, manufacturing, and warehousing. The long tiller arm provides optimal, highly ergonomic operation. It requires less effort, and the operator maintains an optimal distance from the truck. Top-quality components, robust construction, a travel speed up to 6 km/h, and simplified maintenance make the pallet trucks in this series reliable partners for every task.

The BPR20/25N-7 platform pallet trucks feature a travel speed of up to 8 km/h, ensuring the trucks are built for optimal horizontal transportation over extended distances. Equipped with Electric Power Steering (EPS), these trucks offer ergonomic and safe operation. The suspension flip-down platform minimizes body vibrations, and the sideways protective arms provide additional stability and protect the operator during turns. In walking operation mode, the platform and arms are folded compactly within the truck’s outline, conserving space.

The 1.2 and 1.6 t capacity BSR12/16N-7 platform stacker trucks are designed for high efficiency, excelling in storage and picking operations involving heavy weights. The ergonomic, suspension flip-down platform – paired with protective arms – greatly enhances operational efficiency. These trucks are capable of reaching lift heights up to 5.5 m and are also perfect for tasks over extended distances.

Thanks to the robust 8 mm metal skirt, strong chassis, durable mast, and metal battery cover – along with premium components from leading suppliers – these models lower service costs and ensure constant readiness for professional use. The EPS system, coupled with the proportional lifting function, enables smooth and effortless stacking operations.

Bobcat’s First Li-ION 3-Wheel Forklifts

The company is introducing the BNT series, Bobcat’s first Li-ION 3-wheel forklifts, designed for light to medium-duty applications. These models — the B16NT, B18NT, and B20NT — offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution tailored to the growing CL1 market. The new range extends Bobcat’s electric counterbalanced line-up.

Manoeuvrability is the key aspect in the design of these forklifts, making them ideal for use in tight environments. Despite their compact size, these forklifts boast an ergonomic design that ensures large legroom and exceptional operating comfort for the operator. Setting a new standard in confined space material handling, these forklifts provide a smooth ride and high stability in every job.

3 Different Load Capacity Models:

  • B16NT: 1.6 t load capacity at 500 mm
  • B18NT: 1.8 t load capacity at 500 mm
  • B20NT: 2.0 t load capacity at 500 mm

Key Highlights:

  • Dual Drive: Equipped with 4.5 kW dual-drive motors to boost productivity
  • Maintenance-free 51.2V 300 Ah Li-ION (LFP) battery and 150A charger (380V)
  • Electric parking brake: Ease of use and increased safety levels
  • Comfortable dimensions: Designed for compact environments, while still offering spacious dimensions for the operator

About Bobcat

Since 1958, Bobcat has been empowering people to accomplish more. As a leading global manufacturer of compact equipment, Bobcat has a proud legacy of innovation and a reputation based on delivering smart solutions to customers’ toughest challenges. Backed by the support of a worldwide network of independent dealers and distributors, Bobcat offers an extensive line of compact equipment, including loaders, excavators, telehandlers, compact tractors, mowers, attachments, parts, services, and other equipment. The Bobcat brand is owned by Doosan Bobcat.

About Doosan Bobcat

Doosan Bobcat is a company within the Doosan Group. Doosan Group is a top-tier global enterprise proudly serving customers and communities for more than a century. Doosan Bobcat is based in Bundang, South Korea.

For more information about Bobcat and its products, visit www.bobcat.com.

FIRST NEW JCB MINI EXCAVATOR TOUCHES DOWN IN SCOTLAND

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A leading plant hirer has bought the first of the brand new JCB 2.5 tonne mini excavator models to reach Scotland.

Purchased by Ayrshire-based Tom Grant Plant Hire, the brand new JCB 26C-1 is part of the new series of JCB 2.5-tonne mini excavators unveiled earlier this year.

Supplied by Scot JCB, the new model boasts a redesigned cab, improved dig-end geometry, and electro-proportional auxiliary, swing, and dozer controls. Weighing in at 2,675kg, with an overall width of just 1,500mm, it is powered by an EU Stage V engine.

Tom Grant Plant Hire Director, Tom Grant, said: “I’ve had JCB 8026 models over the years, so it was a natural choice to upgrade to this new model. The 26C-1 is a good, strong, stable machine and has a lot of power for its size. It’s a good looking, well built, high quality mini excavator.”

“We work with all sorts of customers, from small landscapers to large construction companies and everything in between. Projects include highways work, utilities, forestry, and wind farms. We are general plant hirers, so we require a fleet that can support a wide variety of applications for all our customers. For us, JCB fits the bill. It offers everything from compact equipment up to heavy duty excavators, all backed by the superb support from Scot JCB.”

Founded in 1997, Tom Grant Plant Hire provides a range of services including plant hire, operated plant hire, and transport hire throughout Glasgow and Ayrshire. It offers a wide range of industrial machinery to perform small or large commercial projects, supported by PTS registered operators.

BPI launches exclusive online auction featuring high-precision CNC machining centres

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BPI, a leading asset disposal specialist, has launched an exclusive online auction showcasing a range of high-precision multi-axis CNC machining centres from a renowned precision engineering firm. These high-spec machines are often used in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and energy.

As part of a strategic restructuring to optimise operations and enhance efficiency, the company has partnered with BPI to streamline its asset disposal process. This curated sale includes 10 premium lots, all of which have been meticulously inspected and detailed by BPI specialists to ensure complete transparency and accurate descriptions.

Key auction highlights include:

  • 2023 DMG Mori NXH8000
  • 2021 DMG Mori NHX5000
  • 2023 DN Solutions Doosan VT1100M
  • 2018 & 2019 DMG Mori DMU Models
  • 2018 & 2017 Mazak VARIAXIS

Each lot is backed by comprehensive specifications, allowing buyers to make informed decisions and enjoy a seamless purchasing experience.

The auction is set to close on Monday 27th January from 14:00, with all collections available from Chelmsford, CM1. Interested buyers can view the lots at:
https://www.bpiauctions.com/auctions/#/auctions/f7a8a040-50c6-4945-9869-8c432e3f6e5a

This auction provides a unique opportunity for precision manufacturers to acquire high-quality CNC machining centres at a fraction of the cost of new equipment. These machines, in excellent working condition, offer incredible value and are poised to enhance operational efficiency, increase productivity, and support long-term business growth.

Richard Travis, Industrial Specialist at BPI, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for manufacturers to acquire state-of-the-art CNC machinery at highly competitive prices. These assets are ready for immediate use, offering both established businesses and startups an effective way to elevate their operations without the hefty price tag of brand-new equipment.”

The auction is hosted on BPI’s secure, user-friendly 24/7 online platform, BPI Auctions, providing global access for businesses to browse, bid, and secure high-end assets with ease and confidence.

To view the online auction and register to bid, visit:
https://www.bpiauctions.com/auctions/#/auctions/f7a8a040-50c6-4945-9869-8c432e3f6e5a

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