Specify Magazine

30/09/2024

🚀 Exciting news from Keyfix 🎉 We are thrilled to announce that Keyfix has won the Associate Supplier of the Year award at the Association of Brickwork Contractors Awards 2024! 🏆

This recognition highlights Keyfix's unwavering commitment to innovation and quality in the construction sector, particularly with our market-leading Non-combustible Cavity Tray System (NCCT). 🔥💪

As we continue to invest in research and the latest technologies, our mission remains clear: to provide effective solutions that meet the highest standards of sustainability, buildability, and safety.

Thank you to all brickwork contractors who voted for us! Your trust inspires us to keep pushing boundaries.

Read more about this achievement and our innovative solutions here: https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/30/award-winners-setting-the-standard-for-others-to-follow/

As a company that prides itself on the innovation of its Non-combustible Cavity Trays, Keyfix was delighted to win the Associate Supplier of the Year award at The Association of Brickwork Contractors […]

19/09/2024

🏡 First NI Housing Executive Homes in 25 Years Showcase the Future of Social Housing! 🌱

Today, Minister for Communities Gordon Lyons visited Sunningdale Gardens to view the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s first new homes in 25 years. These homes set a new standard for energy efficiency and sustainability in social housing, built using Modern Methods of Construction and designed to PassivHaus standards.

💡 What makes these homes special?

Built with ultra-low energy techniques
Deliver energy-efficient features for lower heating bills 🔥
A blueprint for future social housing across Northern Ireland
📣 Minister Lyons commented:

"The Housing Executive is not just delivering homes, it’s leading innovation for Northern Ireland. These PassivHaus standards will guide the future of our social housing sector."

🚪 Jacqueline Lowry, one of the first tenants, said:

"We are so excited to move in and join the Sunningdale community. This house will make a huge difference for my family, especially with all the energy-efficient features."

https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/19/first-housing-executive-homes-in-25-years-showcase-social-sector-energy-efficiency-future/

🎉 Congratulations to the NI Housing Executive and construction partner GEDA on this milestone for energy-efficient homes and sustainable living!



Housing Executive

19/09/2024

🌍 Forum for Better Homes NI Calls for Certainty on Programme for Government Commitments! 🏡

This week at Stormont, policymakers and housing experts gathered to discuss how we can decarbonise homes in Northern Ireland.

💡 Key Commitment:

The draft Programme for Government focuses on decarbonising all housing stock and retrofitting existing homes to meet net zero by 2050.

💬 David Little, Chair of the Forum for Better Homes NI, stated:

"The commitment to decarbonise is crucial, but the housing sector needs clarity. More details must be provided on how this will be achieved."

🤝 Forum members like Jenny Burnside, Northern Ireland Ambassador for Lloyds Banking Group, are working alongside the government to provide sustainable funding and partnership models to support this vital cause.

🏘️ Decarbonising homes:

Tackling fuel poverty

Reducing emissions in residential areas

Boosting green jobs for economic growth

https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/19/forum-for-better-homes-ni-chair-calls-for-certainty-on-programme-for-government-commitments/



Caption: David Honeyford MLA, Colin Crawford MLA, Alan Ritchie former Chair RSUA Climate Emergency Committee, Philip Brett MLA, David Little Chair Forum for Better Homes NI, Gavin McGuire NI Director Federation of Master Builders, Jenny Burnside Northern Ireland Ambassador Lloyds Banking Group, Carol McTaggart Group CEO Clanmil Homes

The Forum for Better Homes NI held an event in Stormont earlier this week to bring together policymakers and experts from across the housing sector to discuss how we decarbonise our […]

17/09/2024

📢 We're Hiring!

🔹 Job Title: Sales Account Manager
🔹 Location: Hybrid (Work from Home, Office, and Client Meetings)
🔹 Hours: 22 Hours/Week
🔹 Salary: £30,000 pro rata + Commission

Are you a motivated sales professional looking for a flexible role where you can make a real impact?

At Specify Magazine, we provide in-depth coverage of the Northern Ireland construction market and connect clients with industry leaders. Join us and help drive business growth in this dynamic industry!

🌟 What You'll Do:

Make 50-70 outbound calls/day to set appointments
Build and manage strong client relationships
Achieve sales goals through lead generation
Prospect new clients on LinkedIn, email, and social media
Turn cold leads into valuable opportunities
👤 What We’re Looking For:

2+ years in business development/account management
Goal-oriented, self-motivated, and a team player
Excellent written and verbal communication
A positive mindset and strong rapport-building skills
💡 Why Join Us?

Flexible working hours for a healthy work-life balance
Opportunity to grow your career and earn great commissions
Play a key role in shaping the future of the construction industry
Ready to take the next step? 🚀 Join our team at Specify Magazine today!

👉 Apply Now!

View details and apply for this Sales Account Manager job in Craigavon, County Armagh with Specify Magazine Ltd on NIJobs.

17/09/2024

Milwaukee Tool UK® keeps pushing the limits of innovation with the new M12 FUEL™ Random Orbit Sander, delivering power, precision, and efficiency for the toughest jobs. Whether you’re spot sanding, working on trim, or tackling delicate refinishing tasks, this tool provides unmatched control and maneuverability.

✨ Key Features:

Cordless and hose-free with 80% dust collection efficiency

Compact pad size for fine detail work

Variable speed trigger with lock-on button (4 speeds from 4,000-10,000 OPM)

Lightweight, ergonomic design for easy use in hard-to-reach areas

🔋 Powered by MILWAUKEE’s legendary M12™ System, featuring the POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor, REDLITHIUM™ Battery, and REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence, this sander is built for extreme performance and durability.

💡 From job site to finishing touches, the M12 FUEL™ Random Orbit Sander delivers industry-leading results.

🔧 What’s in the kit?

2 M12 B2 Battery Packs

C12 C Charger

Toolbag

https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/17/milwaukee-combines-power-and-efficiency-to-sand-the-toughest-materials/

MILWAUKEE® continues to drive innovation for the professional trades with the introduction of the new M12 FUEL™ 75 mm Random Orbit Sander. Providing precise removal for spot sanding, more control […]

12/09/2024

🚰🌍 Northern Ireland Water Unveils £800m Professional Services Framework! 🌿💼

Exciting news! NI Water has announced a massive £800m Professional Services Framework to support the planning and delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure across Northern Ireland. This initiative will drive local economic growth, boost sustainability efforts, and improve climate resilience. 🌱

This is a major win for the local economy and highlights NI Water’s commitment to innovation and sustainability! 💡

📲 Want to learn more? https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/12/ni-water-announces-major-professional-services-framework-to-boost-local-economy-valued-up-to-800m/

After a successful, yearlong public procurement competition, NI Water has announced the award of a Professional Services Framework, valued up to £800m, which will support the planning and delivery of […]

12/09/2024

🌍🏡 Fraser Millar: Pioneering Energy Efficient Homes for a Greener Future! 🌿🔋

Fraser Millar, one of Northern Ireland’s leading family-owned housebuilders, is calling for higher energy efficiency standards in building regulations as part of the journey to Net Zero by 2050. 💪

With Passivhaus developments like Lancaster Park, we’re proving that sustainable housing isn’t just the future—it’s here today! 🏘️

🔋 Why Passivhaus?

Uses up to 90% less energy than traditional homes.
Saves hundreds on heating bills.
Better air quality for healthier living.
Significantly reduces carbon emissions. 🌱
It’s time to raise the bar on eco-friendly living! Let’s build a greener, more affordable future together. 🌟

📲 Want to learn more? Visit our website >>

https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/10/housebuilders-fraser-millar-calls-for-increasing-building-regulations-standards-in-energy-efficiency-for-new-homes/

Fraser Millar NI

LOCAL family-owned business Fraser Millar, one of Northern Ireland’s longest established and most progressive housebuilders has called for an increase in standards of the current building regulations for energy efficiency […]

09/09/2024

🚨 Leadership Update at ICE NI🚨
We’re excited to share that Emer Murnaghan OBE has been appointed Chair of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) for 2024-2025 🎉

📅 Her appointment was confirmed on 5th September 2024 during the ICE NI Annual General Meeting at the MAC, Belfast. The event included an in-person Chair's address from Emer, followed by a supper and networking session.

Emer shared her vision for the role:
"I am committed to leading the institution in its mission to advance civil engineering in the region and promote sustainable infrastructure. Together with our members, we will continue to address the challenges facing our built environment and work towards a more sustainable future, Delivering Better Together!"

👷‍♀️ Leo Martin, GRAHAM Managing Director Civil Engineering, commented:
“Emer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role. Her passion for civil engineering and dedication to the profession will be invaluable in guiding ICE NI forward.”

For over 150 years, ICE NI has been shaping the built environment, championing sustainable infrastructure, and fostering innovation through its network of members, events, and initiatives.

More>> https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/09/graham-innovation-director-appointed-as-chair-of-ice-northern-ireland/

Pictured: (L-R) Emer Murnaghan OBE, Chair ICE NI; Brenda O’Loan, Outgoing ICE NI Chair; Jenny Green, Head of ICE Regions; and Wendy Blundell, Senior Vice-Chair ICE NI.

Stay tuned for more updates, through Specify Magazine!

hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag GRAHAM Group

The Institution of Civil Engineers Northern Ireland (ICE NI) has appointed Emer Murnaghan OBE as Chair for 2024-2025. Caption: L-R Emer Murnaghan OBE, Chair ICE Northern Ireland; Brenda O’Loan Outgoing […]

03/09/2024

Excellent piece in our latest issue of Specify Magazine JMD Training

03/09/2024

🚀 Exciting Leadership News! Darren Lemon Appointed as New Managing Director of b4b Renewables 🌍

We are thrilled to announce that b4b Renewables, a pioneering renewable energy company in Northern Ireland, has appointed Darren Lemon as its new Managing Director! With over 30 years of experience, Darren is set to lead the company’s strategic direction, focusing on solar energy and battery storage solutions to help businesses across the UK and Ireland reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs.

Darren brings a wealth of experience, having grown eir's Northern Ireland business to over £20 million in annual revenue. His expertise will be instrumental as b4b Renewables continues to innovate and expand, following their recent acquisition of Daly Renewables and plans to create 20 new jobs over the next two years.

Darren Lemon shared his enthusiasm: "I am excited to move further into the renewable energy industry, where the growth potential is immense. The work b4b Renewables is doing is making a real difference for local businesses, and I am honored to lead this talented team into the future."

Read more about this exciting development in Specify Magazine:

https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/03/b4b-renewables-appoint-new-managing-director/

03/09/2024

🚜 Exciting News! New Bobcat Fleet Joins PSR Turnkey Solutions Ltd for Renewable Energy and Drainage Projects 🌍

We're thrilled to announce that PSR Turnkey Solutions Ltd, based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has expanded its capabilities with the addition of new Bobcat mini-excavators and a compact track loader! These powerful machines are already hard at work on renewable energy and drainage projects across the UK, including the installation of an environmentally friendly air source heating system in Ruislip.

Paul Strutt, Managing Director of PSR Turnkey Solutions, highlighted the importance of this investment, stating, "We specialize in building infrastructure for the growing renewables market, and the versatility and performance of the Bobcat machines will be crucial in delivering on our projects."

AMS Bobcat Limited has supplied the new equipment, and we're excited to see the impact these machines will have on supporting a sustainable future.

Read the full article in Specify Magazine: https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/03/new-bobcat-fleet-for-renewable-energy-and-drainage-projects/

PSR Turnkey Solutions Ltd, based in Rotherham in South Yorkshire in the UK, has purchased new Bobcat mini-excavators and a new Bobcat compact track loader for use on the company’s […]

02/09/2024

🚀 We're Hiring: Sales Development Representative! 🚀

Are you a results-driven individual with a passion for business development? Do you have a knack for building relationships and turning cold leads into real opportunities? If so, we want to hear from you!

📍 Location: Partial Work from Home / Office and Client Meetings
⏰ Hours: 22 Hours Per Week
💼 Salary: Attractive Package Including Commission

Who We Are:
At Specify Magazine, we’re dedicated to providing in-depth coverage of the Northern Ireland construction market. We connect with key decision-makers in the industry, helping them stay informed about the latest projects, developments, and trends.
We're Looking For Someone Who Has:

At least 2 years of experience in business development or account management

A goal-driven, self-motivated, and curious personality
Excellent written and verbal communication skills

A positive mindset and the ability to convert leads into opportunities

Strong listening skills and the ability to build rapport with clients
🔗 Ready to make an impact? Join us at Specify Magazine and be part of a team that drives the industry forward! Apply today.

Send us a CV to:
E: [email protected]

🚀👥

02/09/2024

🚀 Kickstart Your Career with Farrans Construction! 🚀

We are excited to announce that the application process is NOW OPEN for 50 high-demand positions in our prestigious FFarrans ConstructionFoundation graduate programme! 🌟

If you're a graduate in construction, quantity surveying, or civil engineering, this is your chance to fast-track your career with one of the industry's leading contractors. With intake dates in June and September 2025, positions are available across England, Scotland, Ireland, and Northern Ireland.

👷‍♀️ Our award-winning, two-year programme offers a blend of classroom-based learning and on-site experience, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to become a future industry leader.

💼 Not ready to graduate just yet? We also offer undergraduate summer and year-long placements in various disciplines including civil engineering, construction management, and IT. High performers can earn bursaries for their final year and secure a spot in our graduate programme after graduation!

🗣️ Dominic Lavery, Managing Director of Farrans, said: “Our graduate programme provides an overview of all responsibilities needed to deliver world-class projects, helping you gain practical skills alongside project management and leadership abilities. This is your pathway to a successful career in construction and civil engineering."

🌟 Ready to apply? Don’t miss out—positions fill quickly! Submit your application today at: Graduate Programme and Placement Programme

🔗 Full details here: https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/02/application-process-now-open-for-fifty-graduate-and-placement-positions-at-farrans/

Also an awesome video about Farrans Construction

🏗️💼

Leading civil engineering and building contractor Farrans Construction has launched its application process for 50 high-demand positions on its industry leading graduate programme, Farrans Foundation, with intake dates in June […]

02/09/2024

🚧 Exciting News for Northern Ireland's Construction Sector! 🚧

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Construction futures NI, a collaborative effort led by local construction employers and trade union representatives to tackle the critical skills shortage in the industry.

With nearly 6,000 employers and 65,000 workers in Northern Ireland, our industry generates £3.3bn annually. However, the need for skilled recruits is urgent. Construction Futures NI is here to promote career pathways, enhance strategy with data, and align educational programs with industry needs.

🎉 The launch took place at the new £51m Northern Regional College campus in Ballymena, where key industry leaders, apprentices, and educators gathered to discuss the future of our sector.

🌍 The initiative will also address the transition to a green economy, digitization, and new technologies. By working together, we’re paving the way for a sustainable and skilled workforce!

🔗 Learn more in the full article from Specify Magazine: https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/09/02/construction-futures-ni-industry-driven-force-to-address-critical-skills-shortage-by-promoting-opportunities-in-sector/

🚀🛠️

(L-R) Gareth Loye, CEF Vice-President and CEO of Mascott Construction and M&M Contractors Abbie Foster, Apprentice Joiner at Mivan; Graeme Wilkinson, Director of Skills at the Department for the Economy; […]

30/08/2024

🎉 JCB is celebrating 60 years of its groundbreaking apprenticeship programme with a special reunion for the company’s first-ever apprentices! 🚜 Four trailblazing former employees returned to the Rocester plant to mark this milestone and reflect on the incredible careers that began with their apprenticeships in 1964.

Read more about this special event: https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/08/30/jcb-celebrates-60-years-of-apprenticeships-with-special-reunion/

Four former employees were treated to a VIP visit to JCB to mark the 60th anniversary of their recruitment as the company’s first ever apprentices. A total of nine 15-year-old boys […]

30/08/2024

🚀 The National Federation of Builders ) welcomes the Government's New Homes Accelerator! This much-needed initiative aims to cut through the red tape and speed up the construction of up to 300,000 new homes across England. 🏡 A big step forward for tackling our housing crisis and empowering local builders.

Richard Beresford, NFB's Chief Executive, said: “This programme will play a crucial role in overcoming planning barriers and ensuring large-scale development can proceed more efficiently. We’re proud to see the Government taking our recommendations on board.”

For more details, check out the full article on Specify Magazine: New Homes Accelerator Is a Much-Needed Intervention

The National Federation of Builders (NFB) welcomes the Government’s announcement today launching a New Homes Accelerator, a strategic programme intended to ease the impact of damaging bottlenecks in the housing […]

29/08/2024

✨ Project Update: Audley Scarcroft Park Completed by GRAHAM ✨
We're excited to report that GRAHAM Group, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading construction companies, has completed Audley Villages Scarcroft Park—a stunning £46m retirement village in West Yorkshire. This project, developed in collaboration with Audley Group, includes 22 cottages, 106 apartments, and the restored Grade II listed Scarcroft Lodge, now home to the Audley Club.

With a £1.125bn turnover and a robust pipeline of work, GRAHAM continues to set the standard in sustainable and luxury living spaces. Scarcroft Park reflects this commitment, offering modern, independent living with access to wellness and care services. A true example of how GRAHAM is shaping the future of retirement living.
Learn more about this impressive project in our latest feature!
https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/08/29/graham-completes-latest-retirement-village-for-audley-group/

Scarcroft Park – Photography credit to David Millington (Edited by Specify Magazine) The completion of Scarcroft Park is the latest of several retirement village projects GRAHAM has delivered for Audley […]

28/08/2024

🔐 LPS 1175 Issue 8: Raising the Bar for Perimeter Security! 🚧

Discover how LPS 1175 Issue 8 is transforming perimeter security standards and driving innovation in the physical security industry. Kevin Wells from CLD Physical Security Systems explains the importance of this certification and how it simplifies the selection process for security solutions.
Learn why this standard is crucial for ensuring top-tier protection against intruders.

👉 Read the Full Article on Specify Magazine:

Kevin Wells, Business Development Director at CLD Physical Security Systems (CLD) discusses the evolution of LPS 1175 and the value of certification when it comes to selecting physical perimeter security solutions. […]

27/08/2024

🎉 Breaking Ground in Belper! 🎉

Henry BrothersConstruction and Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust have officially kicked off work on a new £15 million health centre in Belper! 🚧 This exciting development will bring much-needed modern healthcare services to the community, offering everything from nursing to midwifery, physiotherapy, and more. 🏥💙

Designed with sustainability in mind, the centre will feature solar panels, recycled materials, and certified timber, ensuring an environmentally responsible build. The project is a major step forward for local healthcare and sustainability in the region. 🌿

Find out more about this exciting milestone at Specify Magazine: Turf-cutting event marks start on site for new Belper health centre

L-R: John Sowter, Design and Planning Director at Henry Brothers Construction, Tracy Allen, Chief Executive, Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust, Jim Austin, Executive Director, Derbyshire Community Health Services […]

26/08/2024

🚨 Exciting Innovation Alert! 🚨 MILWAUKEE® is breaking new ground in the layout category with the introduction of the M18™ 1200 m Horizontal Vertical Auto Dual Grade Rotary Laser with ONE-KEY™! 🔧💡

This advanced tool features unmatched speed, precision, and dual-grade capability of up to 12.5% on both X and Y axes! With a rugged design, IP66 rating, strobe protection, and remote display, this rotary laser is built to tackle tough job sites with ease. 💪🏽

Get precise measurements up to 1200 meters, enjoy convenient remote adjustments, and power through with the M18™ system. ⚡

https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/08/26/milwaukee-expands-their-rotary-laser-range-with-a-new-exterior-rotary-laser/

Milwaukee Tool UK

22/08/2024

🚜 Get Hands-On with Bobcat at GaLaBau 2024! 🌱

Bobcat Company is bringing an impressive lineup of innovative and trusted machinery to GaLaBau 2024, the premier trade fair for landscaping and green space construction in Nuremberg! From mini-excavators and compact track loaders to generators and special forestry attachments, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on the exclusive Demo Zone where you can try out the E27z mini-excavator, L95 compact wheel loader, and T76 track loader.
Join us to explore the cutting-edge equipment that’s transforming the landscaping industry!

Read the Full Article on Specify Magazine:

Bobcat will be presenting a comprehensive display of innovative and well-established products for landscaping, gardening and the horticultural industry at the GaLaBau 2024 trade fair in Nuremberg in Germany from […]

21/08/2024

Introducing Laurent Black: The Ultimate in Style and Durability!

Elevate your interiors with the stunning Laurent Black, the latest addition to the Ceralsio ceramic surface range from CRL Stone UK & IE. Featuring a bold black background with striking orange veining, this surface not only makes a dramatic statement but also offers unmatched durability. Perfect for kitchen countertops, feature walls, and more, Laurent Black is heat-resistant, UV-resistant, and designed to withstand the demands of modern living.
Discover how this versatile and stylish surface can transform your space.

Read the Full Article on Specify Magazine:
https://specifymagazine.co.uk/2024/08/21/laurent-black-offers-unmatched-durability-and-striking-style/

21/08/2024

🏗️ 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐝𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 🏗️

We’re excited to announce that Ciaran Tiffney has joined Dowds Group as the new Construction Divisional Director! With an impressive career spanning over 15 years, including roles at McLaughlin & Harvey, McAleer & Rushe, and Quintain, Ciaran brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Based at Dowds' Ballymena headquarters, Ciaran will be leading the division’s ambitious projects across Ireland and the UK.

Discover more about his journey and what this means for the future of Dowds Group in our latest article on Specify Magazine.

📖 Click the image to read the full story:

Ballymena-headquartered multi-disciplinary construction company Dowds Group has appointed Ciaran Tiffney as Construction Divisional Director. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Ciaran completed a degree and post-graduation in […]