Export & Freight Jun - Jul 26

Get Involved

Visit our website, plantandcivilengineer.com

Plant & Civil Engineer the premier publication for the plant, construction, quarrying, agricultural and civil engineering industries in Ireland.

Welcome

There is a frequent societal tendency to view construction through the lens of what is visible; the finished building, the completed road, the transformed skyline. But the real story of the industry often lies in the processes prior to their completion, from the determination and innovation, to the non-negotiable expertise and resources which are critical in the realisation of the industry’s objectives. We’re therefore delighted in this edition of Plant & Civil Engineer to focus on some of those integral forces which are driving the sector forward.

With plant hire remaining one of the industry’s great enablers, in this issue we examine how it is continuing to support projects of every scale through investment and dependable service. We also shine a spotlight on heavy haulage and transport solutions, an industry that provides the precision required to move construction’s heaviest assets safely and efficiently.

Golda Burrows General Sales Manager

Sarah Nelson Editor

Martin Elliman General Manager

Joel Byers Production Manager

Brenda Kerr Accounts Administration

Helen Beggs Chief Operating Officer

Plant & Civil Engineer is Published by: 4 SM (NI) Ltd, The Old Coach House, 12 Main Street, Hillsborough BT26 6AE

CONTACT Golda: 07724 192032 or Martin: 07985 887171

Email: golda@4squaremedia.net

Email: martin@4squaremedia.net

4SM (NI) Ltd is part of the North West News Group

Elsewhere in the edition, we turn our attention to the worlds of finance and auctions, two essential pillars of support that help unlock opportunity and investment, and keep the wheels of the industry turning. With sustainability now firmly at the forefront of our thinking, we also explore how organisations are both laying the foundations and accelerating momentum for a net zero future.

This issue’s cover story is an exciting one too, in which we take a look at the growing relationship between Sleator Plant and Shannon Valley, as well as the most recent addition to Shannon Valley’s fleet, the SANY SY235LC excavator. Keep reading on to also find out about Hightown Quarry’s exceptional success under EJC & Son LTD, and the role which WAC McCandless have helped play. You can read about Bobcat’s new Northern Ireland home, Bobcat MPM, too, as well as even more updates, views and features throughout the rest of the pages.

I do hope you enjoy the read, and remember that you can remain on the pulse of the profession’s news 24/7 by logging on to our website at www.plantandcivilengineer.com. Our free weekly newsletter is also distributed every Tuesday – subscribe on our website now if you haven’t already.

See you next issue!

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: © Plant & Civil Engineer 2026. All material in this publication is copyright, including advertisements which have been prepared for advertisers. No part of it may be reproduced in any way whatever or stored in electronic retrieval systems without the written permission of the publishers. We are a completely independent voice and are not connected to any Institutes or Associations within the industry. Our aim is to publish accurate, specific and dedicated information, targeting each sector of the industry, throughout Ireland. The publishers cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies supplied by the contributors. All rights reserved.

Sarah Nelson Editor

Email: pceeditor@4squaremedia.net M: 07789 756 815

IPAF’s 2026 Global Safety Campaign ‘Check It!’ Focuses on MEWP Inspections

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has launched its 2026 Global Safety Campaign, titled ‘Check It!’, aimed at promoting the critical importance of pre-use inspections, proper maintenance and regular servicing of powered access equipment.

This year’s campaign calls on everyone involved in the powered access industry – from operators and managers to rental companies and contractors – to take shared responsibility for safety when working at height. While powered access remains one of the safest methods for performing temporary work at height, incidents involving mechanical or technical failures can still lead to serious injuries and fatalities. IPAF emphasises that many of these incidents are preventable through consistent inspection routines, proper maintenance, and adherence to safety procedures.

Campaign Focus Areas

The 2026 ‘Check It!’ campaign highlights key safety priorities, including:

• The hazards associated with technical and mechanical equipment failure

• The risks of inadequate maintenance, inspection and equipment checks

• Practical steps to reduce these risks

• Who is responsible for different types of checks

• The importance of reporting incidents and nearmisses to IPAF to improve global safety data

Brian Parker, Head of Safety & Technical at IPAF, said: “In 2024, IPAF received eight reports of fatal and major injuries relating to mechanical or technical failures on all types of powered access equipment, with six

CEA Welcomes David Waine as Trade Advocate

The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has welcomed David Waine as Trade Advocate, a voluntary role that will support the association’s work around international trade, supply chains and UK manufacturing.

David is Managing Director of Con Mech Engineers Ltd, a UK-based manufacturing business supplying wear parts and ground engaging tools to the global construction equipment industry. With a career spanning senior commercial and leadership roles across UK steel and downstream manufacturing, he brings practical insight into international trade, supply chains and the realities facing UK manufacturers. His appointment comes at a busy time for the CEA, as the association continues to expand its work on behalf of members across policy, skills, technical, trade, events and industry representation.

Viki Bell, CEO of the CEA, said: “As the CEA’s work continues to grow and the

team remains incredibly busy across a wide range of member activity, it is fantastic to welcome David Waine as Trade Advocate.

“David brings exactly the kind of practical industry knowledge that adds real value to our work. His experience in UK manufacturing, international trade

fatalities reported. Although this data represents a 33% year-onyear decrease in reports and a 45% year-on-year decrease in fatalities, every incident and life lost is one too many.

“Many incidents involving powered access equipment are avoidable. By ensuring that machines are properly maintained, inspected, and checked before use, we can significantly reduce risks and protect lives.”

The campaign aims to raise awareness while providing practical, actionable guidance for industry professionals to help reduce risks and prevent incidents across the industry.

As part of this campaign, IPAF has released new guidance. These downloadable resources are designed for a wide audience to help managers, operators, rental companies, contractors and safety professionals seeking to enhance best practices in work at height safety.

IPAF’s annual Global Safety Campaigns continue to highlight critical industry risks and promote best practices worldwide, supporting safer working environments for all those involved in powered access.

For more information and to access campaign materials, visit www.ipaf.org/safe.

and supply chains gives him a clear understanding of the pressures and opportunities facing our members, and we are very grateful for his support.”

David Waine said: “I am delighted to be supporting the CEA as Trade Advocate and to share some of the experience I have gained through many years in UK manufacturing and international trade.

“The construction equipment sector is full of strong, innovative businesses, but the trading environment remains complex. From supply chains and tariffs to regulation and overseas opportunities, there are many issues that affect members in very practical ways. I look forward to supporting the CEA’s work and helping to ensure those industry views are heard.”

David’s expertise will help strengthen the CEA’s trade-related work, ensuring the views and practical experiences of UK manufacturers continue to be heard and reflected.

TOUGH JOBS DEMAND TOUGH TRUCKS. MAN TGS.

From 18 to 50 tonnes, MAN TGS trucks are built for the toughest construction jobs, combining reliability, performance, and durability. Powered by fuel-efficient, high-torque engines and available with two to five axles, they offer tailored load capacities, wheelbases, and frame overhangs to suit any task.

Latest HSENI Statistics Show 14 Farm Fatalities Due to Falls from Height

Falls from height continue to be one of the most serious causes of injury and death on Northern Ireland’s farms, according to the latest Health and Safety Executive NI (HSENI) statistics.

HSENI Deputy Chief Executive, Bryan Monson, recently revealed that, this year alone, two people had lost their lives due to falls when working at height on farms.

“Sadly, in the last 10 years, 14 people have died as a result of their injuries after a fall while working on the farm, with many more suffering life-changing injuries. And we are seeing most falls happening when farmers or contractors are building or maintaining roofs on farm buildings.

“A split-second fall can lead to devastating consequences with serious injuries and fatalities happening too often and leaving grieving families who might also be left facing the risk of losing their home and the farm business.

“But these incidents can be prevented with the right planning and equipment. They often happen during routine everyday jobs, whether that’s repairing a shed roof, using a ladder, or accessing a loft space. People can think it’s a job that will only take a few

minutes and take the risk thinking if they are careful it will be safe enough. But the figures show that this is never enough,” he said.

“Common hazards include falls from ladders, unprotected roof edges, falling from or with stacked bales, and falling through fragile roof materials, particularly on farms where aging structures are still in use. So, as farms get busier in the months ahead, we want people to take a moment, stop and think through the task, and make sure the job can be done safely.

“So, I would urge people not just to read this and move on, but to really take it on board

and act on it. Taking a few extra minutes to plan the job properly, use the right equipment, and look out for each other can make the difference between getting home safely at the end of the day or not coming home at all.

“Staying safe on the farm isn’t just about you – it’s about protecting your family, your livelihood, and those working alongside you,” Bryan added.

HSENI is urging farmers to think first:

• Make sure you have the right equipment

• Check the equipment has been well maintained and there are no defects

• Consider if there is a better or new way to carry out the work

• Ask if the roof repairs could be carried out from below

• Placing straw bales or similar materials beneath a roof work area to provide a temporary working platform or minimise fall distance

• Consider using collective measures that will keep everyone working at or near the site safe, like a working platform

• Consider engaging competent contractors for high-risk tasks

Uisce Éireann Welcomes Regulator’s Determination and

Sets out

Nationwide Delivery Programme to Improve Water Services

Uisce Éireann has welcomed the Commission for Regulation of Utilities’ (CRU) final determination on Revenue Control 4 (RC4), providing the framework for the delivery of water and wastewater services up to 2029.

As part of this, Uisce Éireann has set out a comprehensive programme of projects, giving clear visibility of planned works across all 26 counties, demonstrating how investment will translate into delivery, improving water services in our communities.

Justin Johnston, Uisce Éireann’s Director of Strategy, Resilience and Regulation, said:

“We welcome the CRU’s determination, which provides a clear and robust framework for

the delivery of water services over the next four years. It sets an ambitious agenda for Uisce Éireann in terms of performance, efficiency and accountability.

“Our focus now is on delivery –progressing critical infrastructure,

managing our operational and capital expenditure responsibly and efficiently, and meeting the targets set by our regulator.”

Major national infrastructure projects, including the Water Supply Project Eastern and

Midlands Region and the Greater Dublin Drainage Project, will form a key part of the overall delivery, addressing capacity constraints in areas under the greatest pressure.

While the RC4 €13.6 billion determination provides the baseline for delivery, Uisce Éireann will also bring forward further proposals and projects later this year utilising additional National Development Plan funding aimed at accelerating housing delivery, within the regulatory mechanisms.

Indicative details of regional and local projects being delivered under this programme are available at www.water.ie, providing stakeholders and communities with clear insight into planned works in their area.

Dungannon Plant Sales and Ace International to Enhance Finlay Support in Ireland

Finlay®, a global manufacturer of mobile crushing, screening and conveying equipment, welcomes strengthened customer support across Ireland following the announcement that Dungannon Plant Sales has officially joined forces with Ace International. The new management team visited the Finlay manufacturing facility to highlight how the strengthened operation will increase capacity across sales, hire and aftersales activity for Finlay customers across Ireland.

While Dungannon Plant Sales will continue to operate under its established name, it will now operate from a new purposebuilt headquarters developed by Ace International in Ardboe, Co. Tyrone. The facility provides increased space and infrastructure to support Finlay equipment sales, hire operations, parts availability and service support, reinforcing longterm capability in the region.

“We’re proud to build on the legacy of Dungannon Plant Sales while investing in its future,” said Andrew Coney. “Our new headquarters in Ardboe provides a strong platform to expand our hire offering, enhance aftersales support and continue delivering Finlay equipment to customers across Ireland.”

As Finlay’s established distributor in Ireland, Dungannon Plant Sales

supplies a full range of crushing, screening and conveying equipment, including jaw, cone and impact crushers, screeners and stacking conveyors. The business supports customers across aggregates, construction and demolition, infrastructure, recycling and waste management. The strengthened operation brings additional experience to the business, with Andrew

Coney, Brian Donaghy and Ian Williamson joining the management team, contributing more than 100 years of combined industry experience. Alan Fallon, former owner of Dungannon Plant Sales, remains with the company in a sales role, providing continuity for customers.

“I’m excited to continue serving our loyal customer base and to work alongside a team that shares my passion for the industry,” added Alan Fallon.

“This transition strengthens Dungannon Plant Sales so that we will remain a trusted name in crushing and screening.”

Further investment in personnel includes John Duffy within the sales team, alongside Glenn Smyton, who continues to support customers through the parts function, maintaining a strong focus on uptime and lifecycle support.

Matt Dickson, Business Line Director for Finlay, added:

“The strengthened position of Dungannon Plant Sales brings tangible benefits for our customers in Ireland. Increased capacity across hire, parts and aftersales support, combined with continued investment in people and facilities, improves responsiveness in the field and supports longterm equipment performance.”

CIBSE Welcomes Dave Cooper as New President for 2026 – 2027

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) has announced the appointment of Dave Cooper as its President for 2026 – 2027, following his inauguration at the CIBSE Annual General Meeting 2026, held at CIBSE’s headquarters in London recently.

Dave Cooper succeeds Vince Arnold, bringing more than four decades of experience in the lift and escalator industry. Dave brings exceptional technical expertise, leadership and a strong commitment to the engineering profession. Throughout his distinguished career, he has built a reputation as an engineer, educator, author and advocate for safety, making a significant contribution to both the industry and CIBSE.

A long-standing and highly respected member of the Institution, Dave has played a pivotal role in the development of multiple editions of CIBSE Guide D: Transportation Systems in Buildings. His contributions to engineering and professional practice have been recognised through the award of a CIBSE Silver Medal and an MBE.

Alongside his new role as 2026 – 2027

CIBSE President, Dave continues to hold a wide range of positions across industry, academia and charitable organisations. He has been a Professor at the University of Northampton, where he was involved with the MSc in Lift Engineering programme, and is currently serving as a Visiting Professor at the University of East London. He also sits on the

executive committee and membership panel of the Society of Vertical Transportation, chairs the Institute of Healthcare Engineering and Estate Management Lift Panel for Authorising Engineers, serves as Middle Warden of the Worshipful Company of Engineers and chairs both the Rumford Club and the Trustee Boards of the Lift Industry Charity and the Lift Symposium Educational Trust. His extensive involvement across standards, education and professional bodies includes membership of the British Standards committees for lifts, escalators and cableways, and participation in Safety Assessment Federation technical committees.

In his Presidential Address, Dave outlined his theme for the year, Future-proofing through resilience, highlighting the critical role engineers play in creating buildings and infrastructure that remain resilient, efficient and adaptable for generations to come.

Addressing members and guests at the AGM, Dave emphasised that engineering must extend beyond addressing immediate challenges and focus on anticipating future needs. His message was clear: “Futureproofing isn’t optional, it’s essential.”

Across Ireland, our experts are well-versed in businesses like yours, so they won’t just listen to your plans, they’ll understand them.

Former PM Group CEO, Dave Murphy, Inaugurated as President of Engineers Ireland

Former PM Group CEO, Dave Murphy, has been inaugurated as President of Engineers Ireland, which represents more than 30,000 members across all disciplines of engineering. He was appointed at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting, becoming the 134th President of the Institution.

Engineers Ireland is the statutory and regulatory body for all disciplines of professional engineering in Ireland, with sole authority to award the registered professional title of Chartered Engineer in the Republic of Ireland. Established in 1835, it is one of the oldest professional organisations in the country.

A Chartered Chemical Engineer, Mr Murphy graduated with a

BSc in Chemical Technology in 1985 from Cork Regional Technical College, now Munster Technological University. He spent four years as an Assistant Production Manager at Plaistow Limited, a contract pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Cork. He then joined international project delivery firm PM Group in 1989, spending 34 years with the Cork-headquartered company and working in all areas of the business including process design, project and construction management, start-up, commissioning, and qualification. He was appointed to the Board of PM Group in 2006 and became Group CEO in 2011, leading the company’s 3,500 employees across 11 countries.

He retired as PM Group’s CEO in 2023 and became Vice President of Engineers Ireland in 2024. Speaking about his inauguration, Mr Murphy said: “Serving as President of Engineers Ireland is the highest distinction that can be bestowed on a member of the engineering profession in this country, and I am deeply honoured to take up this role. Engineering in Ireland is undergoing unprecedented growth and change, and its contribution to shaping our future has never been more important. Research by Engineers Ireland shows that more than 22,000 additional engineers will be required over the next decade to meet the needs of our country, across all sectors.

“Engineers are also central to the delivery of vital infrastructure that Ireland needs in areas such as housing, water, energy, transportation, all of which are essential to supporting economic growth and enhancing quality of life.

“I look forward to engaging with our many members over the coming year, helping to further strengthen the voice of engineers, and advocating both on their behalf and that of our profession.”

Kimmins: Transport Sits at the Heart of How we Live, Work and Connect

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has highlighted the importance of working collaboratively to ensure that transport delivers for people across Ireland.

Speaking at the 19th annual Transport Ireland Conference, held at Croke Park in Dublin, Minister Kimmins said: “I am delighted to attend this important conference which brings together those shaping the future of transport, connectivity, and infrastructure across our island. Transport must work for everyone. It must enable people to access jobs, education, healthcare, and essential services, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.

“Collaborative working is key, and I know we all have a desire to see work begin on the A5 Western Transport Corridor. The scheme will improve our connectivity, which will in turn bring significant economic and safety benefits and, for those reasons, I am determined to see the road built.

“I am also keen to progress further junction safety improvements along the A1 but, in common with the A5, we must await the outworkings of the current legal proceedings before taking these forward. In the meantime, however, I was pleased to announce a £1 million major resurfacing scheme for this main arterial route, which carries thousands of vehicles per day, including many cross-border travellers.

“In terms of public transport, we are already making transformative joint investment across the island, particularly along the Belfast to Dublin rail corridor. The increase

in frequency of the Belfast-Dublin Enterprise service has seen a substantial growth in passenger numbers and has made rail a far more convenient option for commuting between Belfast and Dublin. The recent announcement of £548m for a major upgrade of the Enterprise train fleet which includes around £200 million from my Department will deliver a transformed cross-border rail service, with faster, more reliable journeys while also supporting the decarbonisation of our transport network. We are also progressing the outcomes of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, setting out a long-term vision for improved connectivity, faster journeys, and a more sustainable rail network.

“At the same time, we are increasing our focus on public transport and active travel, recognising their central role in building a more sustainable and inclusive transport system. This ambition is reflected in the Active Travel Delivery Plan, which is helping us invest in safer and more accessible infrastructure for local journeys, while also improving integration with bus and rail services. We are working with partners across the island to deliver more sustainable and resilient transport. Cross-border greenways, such as the cross-border Carlingford Lough Greenway, which was supported by Shared Island funding, are already improving connectivity, tourism, and low-carbon travel.”

The Minister also updated the conference on her Department’s new Transport Strategy, saying: “Transport sits at the heart of how we live, work, and connect, and the decisions we take now will have lasting consequences for our economy, our environment, and our communities. That is why we are bringing forward a new Transport Strategy, which is currently being finalised following extensive public consultation and engagement across the North, and is due for publication later this summer.

“It will set out a clear long-term vision for the future and guide how we plan, invest in, and deliver transport in the years ahead. The challenges are significant, but so too are the opportunities. By working together, we can deliver a transport system that is more sustainable, more connected, and better for the people we serve.”

DEVELON SECURES MAJOR DEAL TO SUPPLY UP TO 70 DD130 DOZERS TO THE POLISH ARMY

Develon has secured a major contract to supply up to 70 DD130 dozers to the Polish Army, marking a significant milestone for the brand in Europe’s specialised equipment and military procurement market.

The tender, led by Poland’s 3rd Regional Logistics Base, covers the supply of 50 crawler dozers, with an option for an additional 20 units. According to Polish defence media outlet, Defence24, the selected bid was submitted by MW Rail S.A., with the equipment to be supplied under the Develon brand of the HD Hyundai Group and collaborated with Glomak Polska, the Polish National Distributor of Develon. This achievement is particularly meaningful as it comes just two years after Develon introduced its dozer range to the European market. It is one of the largest singlemodel compact dozer deals in Europe and carries strong symbolic importance, as the machines will be supplied not for ordinary construction applications, but for military engineering operations.

The Polish Army’s tender required strict compliance with demanding performance, durability, transport, working equipment and operational requirements. According to Defence24, the machines are expected to support a wide range of military engineering tasks, including excavation, ground levelling, earthmoving, terrain preparation, shortdistance material pushing and operations using blades, rippers, towing devices and other specialized attachments. The machines must also be capable of working continuously under load for at least 10 hours.

ENGINEERING ADAPTATION AND DELIVERY EXECUTION

Develon won the project after competing until the final stage against key globally recognised brands in the dozer segment. This result demonstrates not only the product competitiveness of the DD130, but also Develon’s engineering capability and organisational agility in responding to demanding customer requirements.

One of the key challenges in the project was

meeting the Polish Army’s specific technical requirements while using a productionbased machine configuration. Develon responded proactively by adjusting parts of the frame structure and optimising the motor displacement to increase maximum travel speed. In addition, the machines require military-specific specifications, including defence-colour painting, making the project far more complex than a standard commercial delivery.

Delivery timing was another major challenge. Develon plans to supply 50 units, and up to 70 units including the optional quantity, by November 2026. Given the need for special configurations and military painting, meeting this delivery schedule requires close cooperation across production, engineering, quality, supply chain, sales and product management teams.

The project therefore stands as a strong example of company-wide collaboration to meet both technical requirements and a challenging delivery timeline. The contract also comes at a time when demand for defence capability and military engineering equipment is increasing across Europe due to ongoing regional security concerns. Against this backdrop, Develon’s success in securing a large-scale Polish military supply contract is expected to further strengthen the brand’s credibility in public procurement, defence-related equipment and strategic infrastructure markets.

STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE FOR DEVELON

A Develon spokesperson said: “This contract is more than a major sales achievement. It is a clear demonstration of the DD130’s performance, quality and Develon’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to demanding customer requirements in Europe.”

The spokesperson added that by meeting strict military procurement conditions and a challenging delivery schedule through close cross-functional collaboration, Develon has demonstrated its ability to serve as a reliable partner not only in construction equipment, but also in public, military, infrastructure recovery and strategic equipment sectors.

ABOUT DEVELON

Develon, formerly Doosan Construction Equipment, is one of the world’s leading construction, quarry and mining equipment manufacturers, offering a broad selection of products including crawler and wheeled excavators (with operating weights from 1 to 100 tonne), wheel loaders (covering bucket capacities from 1.9 to 6.4 m³), articulated dump trucks (with maximum payloads up to 41 tonne), compact wheel loaders (from 3.5 to 5 tonne), dozers (up to 15 tonne) and products with alternative power sources.

Green Light for ‘Critical’ Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region to Proceed to Next Stage of its Development

Approval has been given for the Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region to proceed to the next stage under the government’s infrastructure guidelines.

This project involves the development of a new source of drinking water with the capacity to supply up to 50% of Ireland’s population across the Eastern and Midlands region. It will be essential in order to support housing and economic growth across the region, including in the Dublin area, in the decades to come.

Following the lodging of a planning application in December, a Detailed Business Case for the project has now been approved by the Uisce Éireann board and in turn now noted by government. This paves the way for the procurement and tendering process to progress in order to accelerate the delivery phase for the project.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, said: “The Water Supply Project is a vital piece of infrastructure to unlock housing and facilitate growth in the Eastern and Midlands Region. Its delivery is critical to help us achieve the aims of Delivering Homes, Building Communities, our housing action plan. The project, along with Uisce Éireann’s other major infrastructure project, the Greater Dublin Drainage project, reflects significant government investment in water infrastructure to support housing and development.

“This parallel progression of planning and procurement reflects government policy to reduce delays, shorten delivery timelines, and ensure that major infrastructure projects are ready to transition quickly from approval to construction.”

Maria O’Dwyer, Uisce Éireann’s Infrastructure Delivery Director, added: “Uisce Éireann welcomes the approval to progress the Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region through the next stage of the Infrastructure Guidelines. This project is backed by the government’s continued funding commitment, and we are committed to playing our part in the delivery of vital strategic infrastructure to support housing delivery.

“This project is achieving milestones at pace and we are taking all possible

measures to accelerate delivery as it navigates through the statutory planning process. We will be progressing with the procurement of contractors and other project delivery partners over the coming months, so that, subject to the planning approval, works can be mobilised as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Water supply in the Eastern and Midlands region faces major challenges, notably the over-reliance on a single source (the River Liffey) to supply 1.7 million people. When delivered, this once-in-a-generation project will ensure a sustainable, secure and resilient supply of drinking water to the Eastern and Midlands region to support our growing population and economy, including the increased demand for housing.

The project will provide Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow with a resilient, safe, secure water supply. It will also create a treated water supply ‘spine’ across the country, providing infrastructure with the capacity for future offtakes, to serve communities along the route in Tipperary, Offaly, and Westmeath. In addition, the project will enable supplies currently serving Dublin to be redirected back to Louth, Meath, Kildare, Carlow and Wicklow, which will support growth and promote regional development.

Subject to a successful planning application, Uisce Éireann proposes to start construction in 2028, with completion within five years. Based on a cost estimate of between €4.58 billion and €5.96 billion, the project can deliver in excess of €10 for every €1 of project costs, representing a positive investment for the State.

The Water Supply Project will bring significant socio-economic and environmental benefits for communities in the Eastern & Midlands region. During construction, the project will employ more than 1,000 people directly, with a significant associated spend on local supplier goods and services.

As part of the procurement process, prequalification questionnaires are designed to secure the strongest possible market response. This involves inviting interested contractors and consortia to demonstrate their capability and experience in delivering complex, large-scale infrastructure. This approach builds on extensive early engagement with the construction and engineering sector, ensuring market capacity, capability and innovation are aligned with Ireland’s national infrastructure pipeline. It also provides industry with the clarity and certainty needed to plan and mobilise resources, and scale infrastructure.

GIVE YOUR WORKSHOP A LIFT.

New plant. New machinery. But what about the workshop? Correct regular maintenance is essentialgoes a long way towards a healthy bottom line.

Ensuring your plant and machinery is fit-for-purpose is a never ending task. Irrespective of its age, there will always be items needing attention; ensuring down-time is kept to a minimum and an acceptable level of site safety is maintained. Your workshop is central to this, and needs to be correctly equipped to ensure that any work required can be carried out efficiently and safely.

This is where SWS fit. Having supplied workshop equipment and consumables across the length and breadth of Ireland for 50+ years they are well placed to recommend solutions that fully meet your needs; are totally fit for purpose, fully certified and designed to give

years of trouble-free service. As the top-tier supplier for many leading workshop brands, SWS can ensure that every workshop installation meets these criteria.

A FEW OF THE BRANDS THAT SWS SUPPLY.

Stertil-Koni - a global market leader in heavy-duty vehicle lifting systems, specializing in safe,

hydraulic solutions for agricultural and construction site vehicles.

Samoa - manufacturer of a full range of lubrication equipment to pump, dispense, measure, monitor, control and recover lubricants and other service fluids.

VLT - brake testing equipment for all vehicles.

Majorlift - GB manufacturer of a complete range of hydraulic lifting equipment for the plant industries

Premier Pits - inspection pits for all types of commercial vehicles, designed to comply fully with all workshop regulations and requirements

This is only a small sample of what's available. Whatever the requirements in the workshop are, SWS have the solution, the products, the stock and the service.

in profile

FROM DAIRY ROOTS TO STEEL AND CONCRETE: HOW TELEHANDLERS POWER VE TECH’S GROWTH

When Robert Veitch, Managing Director of Ve Tech Concrete, talks about machinery, farming, or construction, he speaks with the calm clarity of someone who has built a business with his own hands and with the help of a fleet of telehandlers that have gradually become the backbone to everything he does.

Back in 2005, Robert was milking 75 dairy cows on around 300 acres. Today, that herd has grown to around 250, but the real transformation has been in the business that emerged from a simple need to lift steel and feed cattle more efficiently.

ONE TELEHANDLER, TWO JOBS, AND A TURNING POINT

Robert’s first encounter with Merlo came when he hired a telehandler for construction work on a shed. That experience quickly turned into the purchase of his first machine, a Merlo P34.10, bought in 2005.

In those early days, the P34.10 started each morning on the dairy unit, feeding cows and handling materials, before heading out in the afternoon to support the growing number of shed building jobs Robert was taking on. The rhythm became routine – farm work first, construction work second.

“It wasn’t planned,” Robert recalls. “But once we had the machine, we realised what we could actually do with it.”

THE STABILISED MACHINE THAT CHANGED THE TRAJECTORY

As the shed erection work grew, Robert recognised the need for more reach, more stability, and more precision.

In 2007, he bought what he still describes as the true turning point: a Merlo P38.14 – the predecessor to today’s P40.14 stabilised models.

“That was the machine that changed everything,” he says. “Stable, fast, precise – a game changer.”

With stabilisers deployed, the machine could safely lift heavier steel sections, reach higher into rooflines, and work with a confidence that fundamentally changed Ve Tech’s capabilities. From that moment, construction moved from being a part time sideline and became the core of the business. As Ve Tech’s workload expanded, so did its machinery. By 2010 the business was well beyond single machine operations, and today the fleet reflects both the scale and the diversity of the company.

Ve Tech now runs six stabilised telehandlers for construction operations, supported by two TF42.7 medium capacity farm handlers, each offering a 4.2 tonne lift capacity and seven metre reach – machines that suit the daily demands of a modern dairy unit while remaining capable on mixed use sites.

Over time, Ve-Tech gradually upgraded into Merlo’s current stabilised range

and today operates a fleet of Merlo P40.13PLUS and 40.14PLUS machines –direct descendants of that first pivotal P38.14. The P40.14PLUS delivers a 4-tonne lift capacity and a 13.5 metre reach, the closely related P40.13PLUS offers similar load capacity with a slightly smaller overall footprint, a reduced tyre profile, similar lift capacity and one metre less lift height. Both machines share features that have become essential to Ve-Tech’s steel-erection work – particularly boom side shift, a function Robert rates highly: “The boom side shift is one of the best things about the stabilised machines. When you’re positioning steel, that bit of sideways movement saves you so much time – you’re not constantly repositioning the machine. It’s precise, it’s controlled, and it just makes the job more efficient.”

Robert’s PLUS machines also incorporate chassis levelling and Merlo’s full ASCS safety and load management system, complete with live digital load charts, automatic attachment recognition, a 10.1 inch colour display, integrated weighing and operator profiles. Both machines are powered by 116 hp Perkins engine and a two speed hydrostatic transmission, give Ve Tech the precision, stability and lifting performance they require

ANOTHER

TURNING POINT IN CAPABILITY: ENTER THE ROTO

The most transformative addition to the fleet however, may have been the company’s first Merlo ROTO, purchased at the first ever PlantWorx in 2013. The introduction of a rotating telehandler gave Ve Tech access to work that traditionally required a crane, adding flexibility and creating a new hire with operator service.

Robert’s current Roto 70.24 PLUS represents the pinnacle of that capability, combining a seven tonne lift, 24 metre reach, full 360 degree continuous rotation, advanced stabilisers, a tilting cab, dual hydraulic pumps, and a powerful 170hp FPT engine.

“It does everything we need,” says Robert “and often everything everyone else needs too. It’ll do jobs they didn’t think a telehandler could touch.”

A FULL DESIGN AND BUILD CONTRACTOR

From those early days, Ve Tech has evolved into a fully integrated design and build business. The company now spans structural steel fabrication, volumetric concrete delivery, and full construction work. Around 75% of its projects remain single span agricultural sheds, but the team increasingly handles more complex structures.

With ten volumetric mixers and 40 – 45 employees, Ve Tech can service multiple sites with concrete daily. Robert’s daughter now runs the concrete division, representing the next generation of the business.

A DEALER RELATIONSHIP MEASURED IN DECADES

Behind the machinery story lies a long and trusted partnership with Ramsay & Jackson,

Ayrshire’s established Merlo dealer. The dealership has represented Merlo for decades and was central to Ve Tech’s adoption of the brand from the very beginning.

When Ramsay & Jackson’s Knowehead Works depot in Mauchline was destroyed by fire in 2022, the company committed to rebuilding and Ve Tech was the contractor chosen to build the new premises.

The completed facility officially opened to the public in October 2025, with hundreds attending the launch of the state of the art building. The reopening marked a major milestone for both businesses. Ramsay & Jackson showcased leading brands including Merlo, reinforcing their position as one of Scotland’s key construction and agricultural equipment dealers.

For Ve Tech, building the depot symbolised the strength of the partnership: the contractor and the dealer working hand in hand, each supporting the other’s growth.

MACHINERY THAT BUILT A BUSINESS

Robert is candid about the ups and downs of machine ownership – especially through the component supply challenges of the early 2020s, but he is clear about why Merlo telehandlers remain at the core of the operation.

“They gave us the ability to work faster, higher, safer,” he says. “In the early days they let us do farm work and construction in the same day. And as the machines improved and the work grew, they helped us expand.”

FINAL WORD

Today Ve Tech balances its agricultural heritage with a thriving construction and concrete business, built on stable machines, a trusted dealer, and a willingness to diversify. The telehandlers that once split their days between milking time and steelwork now anchor a full design and build operation.

As Robert puts it: “We started with one telehandler doing mornings on the farm and afternoons on site. Now the machines are at the heart of everything we build. They’ve helped us grow from a small dairy shed to a full design and build business, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without them.”

BUILDING MOMENTUM: SLEATOR PLANT, SANY AND SHANNON VALLEY STRENGTHEN A SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP

A strong and dependable partnership between dealer and customer is often the foundation of progress in the construction and plant sector. Over the past 12 months, the growing relationship between Sleator Plant and Shannon Valley in Ireland has become a standout example of

what can be achieved through trust, performance, and consistent delivery.

A YEAR OF SIGNIFICANT GROWTH

In just under a year, Shannon Valley has taken delivery of 20 SANY excavators through Sleator Plant, covering a wide spectrum of machines from 3.5-tonne compact units up to 40-tonne heavy excavators. This steady investment reflects both a confidence in the SANY product range and the service backing and support provided by Sleator Plant.

The most recent addition to Shannon Valley’s fleet is the SANY SY235LC excavator, supplied by Dealer Sales Manager Amanda McNally. Known for its balance of power, efficiency and durability, the SY235LC is expected to be a popular choice across infrastructure, civil engineering and general construction applications.

SHANNON VALLEY: DRIVING INFRASTRUCTURE EXCELLENCE

Based in Ireland, Shannon Valley Group has built a strong reputation across civil engineering, road infrastructure, earthworks, utilities, and environmental projects. The company plays a key role in delivering essential infrastructure and large-scale development works, combining technical expertise with modern plant and equipment to maintain efficiency and reliability on site.

Their continued investment in SANY machinery highlights a strategic focus on fleet modernisation, operator comfort, and cost efficiency - all crucial factors in today’s competitive construction landscape.

A RELATIONSHIP BUILT ON PERFORMANCE

The repeat business from Shannon Valley signals more than just fleet expansion - it reflects a growing partnership grounded in trust and proven results.

A spokesperson for Shannon Valley commented: “Over the past year, we’ve been very pleased with both the performance of the SANY machines and the support we’ve received from Sleator Plant. Reliability, efficiency and operator feedback have all been extremely positive, which made the decision to continue investing in SANY equipment a straightforward one. We see this as a long-term partnership that supports our growth and project delivery across Ireland.”

From the dealer perspective, the relationship is equally valued.

Amanda McNally, Dealer Sales Manager at Sleator Plant, added: “Working with Shannon Valley has been fantastic over the last 12 months. Their continued investment in SANY equipment is a testament to both the quality of the machines and the strength of the support we provide. Repeat business is always the biggest indicator of customer satisfaction, and we’re proud to be growing alongside them as a trusted partner.”

POWERING A NEW ERA OF CONSTRUCTION GROWTH

STRONG MARKET PRESENCE AND INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT

Sleator Plant’s momentum has not been confined to customer deliveries alone. The company recently showcased its offering at ICE Expo, where both new and existing customers visited the stand in strong numbers.

The event proved highly successful, generating significant new and repeat business while further strengthening awareness of the SANY brand.

As SANY machines continue to gain traction, their market share in the Irish construction sector is steadily growing, driven by a combination of value, performance and dealer support.

A MAJOR MILESTONE: THE SANY SY750H

Looking ahead, one of the most exciting developments for SANY and Sleator Plant is the arrival of the SANY SY750H excavatora flagship, large-scale machine which made its debut at the recent Hillhead exhibition. This model represents a major milestone as the first SY750H of its kind in the UK and Irish markets. Following its appearance at Hillhead, the machine will be delivered directly to its new owner in Ireland through Sleator, demonstrating the immediate demand for high-capacity equipment.

Jonathan Campbell, Managing Director at Sleator Plant, commented: “The introduction of the SY750H into the UK and Ireland is a significant step forward for both SANY and Sleator Plant. It showcases how far the brand has come in meeting the demands of large-scale projects. To have this machine already sold and heading straight to a customer in Ireland after Hillhead highlights the confidence the market has in SANY and in our ability to support these machines.”

LOOKING AHEAD: NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sleator Plant is continuing its active engagement with customers and the wider industry with its upcoming presence at the National Ploughing Championships this September.

Visitors to the stand can expect to see a strong line-up of SANY machines,

representing the brand’s versatility across sectors. The event will provide an excellent opportunity for both new and existing customers to explore the range, meet the team, and discuss their equipment needs.

Sleator Plant is extending an open invitation: “We look forward to welcoming customers - old and new - to our stand at the National Ploughing Championships. It’s always a fantastic event, and a great opportunity to showcase the latest SANY machines and discuss how we can support businesses moving forward.”

A PARTNERSHIP POISED FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS

The collaboration between Sleator Plant, SANY, and Shannon Valley is a clear example of how strong relationships and dependable machinery drive success in the construction industry. With continued fleet investment, growing market presence, and exciting product developments on the horizon, this partnership is set to go from strength to strength in the years ahead.

PRECISION IN PRECAST: DELIVERING ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL AT BRIGHTON AND BEYOND

Creagh Concrete Products Ltd is proud to have played a key role in the delivery of the new Brighton College Performing Arts Centre, manufacturing and installing 27 bespoke curved precast concrete elements that form a striking and integral part of the building’s façade. Manufactured at our specialist facility in Toomebridge, these highly intricate units reflect the strength of Creagh’s advanced offsite capabilities and unwavering focus on engineering precision. Each element measures up to 4.5 metres in width and weighs in excess of 13 tonnes, requiring meticulous

planning, expert coordination, and technical excellence throughout both production and installation. The complexity of the scheme was further enhanced by the integration of 67 unique German brick slip variations, carefully incorporated to achieve a visually rich and architecturally distinctive finish. The building’s grey-toned exterior blends brick and flint, materials thoughtfully selected to complement the architectural heritage of the Brighton

College campus. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding Neo-Gothic buildings, the design balances contemporary construction techniques with traditional forms and textures. At the same time, the façade has been engineered to perform in a challenging coastal environment, ensuring BLENDING CONTEMPORARY OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION WITH TRADITIONAL MATERIALS, THE FAÇADE REFLECTS BOTH THE HERITAGE OF ITS SURROUNDINGS AND THE INNOVATION BEHIND ITS DELIVERY.

precast solutions

long-term durability against exposure to salt air and changing weather conditions.

A defining feature of the project is the horizontal gradient of flint woven through the brickwork—a subtle yet impactful reference to the white cliffs of the Sussex coastline, where flint naturally occurs within chalk formations. This detail creates a strong visual identity while grounding the building in its local context.

This level of detail and sensitivity to architectural intent is consistent across Creagh’s portfolio of bespoke projects. Recently, at Inverness Castle, Creagh delivered another technically demanding precast solution, working closely with project partners to ensure the restoration and redevelopment works respected the historical significance of the structure while meeting modern performance standards. Projects such as these demonstrate Creagh’s ability to adapt

its design and manufacturing expertise to suit both contemporary and heritage-led schemes. The successful delivery of Brighton College is a testament to the collaborative approach adopted across the project team, where close engagement between architects, engineers, and Creagh’s production specialists ensured the design vision was realised without compromise. Together, these projects exemplify Creagh’s ongoing commitment to technical excellence, innovation in offsite manufacturing, and the delivery of complex precast solutions at scale. They reinforce our position as a trusted partner for architecturally ambitious developments, where quality, detail, and long-term performance are critical.

FROM THE DESK OF: GORDON BEST, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, MPANI

MID-YEAR REVIEW:

RESILIENT BUT LOSING MOMENTUM

As we now are at the half-way point of 2026, it’s worth doing a progress report. If I were summarising Northern Ireland’s economic performance so far in 2026 in one sentence, I would describe it as, “Resilient but losing momentum.”

WHAT’S GOING WELL?

• The economy entered 2026 from a relatively strong position. Northern Ireland’s economic output was 1.6% higher than a year earlier and remains well above pre-pandemic levels.

• Employment remains high, with around 818,000 people in PAYE employment, up 1.0% year-on-year. Wages are still rising, with median monthly pay increasing by 3.2% over the year

• Northern Ireland has continued to outperform many UK regions in recent years and retains strong export links to both the UK and EU markets. Exports to the EU increased by 4.3% in 2025

• Business investment confidence remains reasonably healthy, reflected in major commitments such as the planned £1.3 billion expansion of Belfast Harbour

AREAS OF CONCERN

• Growth has slowed significantly from the stronger performance seen during 2025. Quarterly growth in the latest official data was only 0.2%, indicating that the economy is expanding but not rapidly

• Productivity remains a long-term weakness. Northern Ireland still has one of the lowest productivity levels in the UK, which constrains wage growth and competitiveness

• Construction, manufacturing and mineral products businesses continue to face high energy costs, labour shortages and planning delays. These structural issues remain unresolved

• Global uncertainty, particularly higher energy prices and weaker European growth, is creating headwinds for the second half of 2026

From an MPANI perspective, I’d describe the market as, “Stable today, but dependent on infrastructure decisions tomorrow.”

Demand will hopefully be supported by:

• Increased housing activity

• Improved roads maintenance spending

• Continued renewable energy projects and we see electricity grid upgrades

• In the medium to longer term the potential offshore wind developments

• Belfast Harbour expansion plans

• Increased local and foreign investment as the EU and UK realign on trade and the benefits of dual market access begin to be realised

However, the sector is still waiting for stronger delivery of:

• Water and wastewater investment

• Long-term roads funding

• Planning reform

• Major public infrastructure programmes

• Public sector delivery transformation

The recent Northern Ireland Audit Office (NIAO) report, “A Strategic Review of the Planning Appeals Commission”, published on 21 May 2026, was highly critical of the PAC’s performance over recent years and is another indictment on the NI Planning System.

KEY FINDINGS

1. Significant Backlogs and Delays

The NIAO found that substantial backlogs and lengthy delays within the PAC have become a major constraint on Northern Ireland’s planning system and are affecting economic development and investment confidence. Some of the headline figures included:

• Average planning appeal decision times increased from 23 weeks in 2016-17 to 73 weeks in 2024-25

• Major “Hear and Report” cases often took several years to progress

• At the time of the audit (August 2025), none of the major cases referred to the PAC by the Department for Infrastructure since 2021 had been completed

2. Impact on Investment and Development

The report concluded that delays were affecting:

• Housing delivery

• Renewable energy projects

• Infrastructure schemes

• Commercial developments

• Community projects

The Audit Office warned that prolonged delays risk making Northern Ireland a less attractive location for investment.

3. Governance and Accountability Weaknesses

The NIAO found:

• Weak accountability arrangements

• Insufficient oversight by the Department of Justice and the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service

• No statutory performance targets for the PAC

• Poor communication and strained relationships with other parts of the planning system

4. Value for Money Concerns

Perhaps the strongest conclusion was that: The PAC “has not been delivering value for money.”

The report stated that its governance, accountability and resourcing arrangements were not sufficient to ensure it could consistently meet the needs of the planning system.

MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS

The Audit Office made five major recommendations, including:

• A fundamental review of the PAC’s status, structure and governance

• Publication of plans to clear remaining backlogs

• Introduction of measurable performance targets and KPIs

• Stronger oversight by the Department of Justice

• Improved engagement with councils and the Department for Infrastructure

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR OUR LOCAL MINERAL PRODUCTS SECTOR

For MPANI members and the wider minerals industry, the report is significant because it identifies the PAC as a bottleneck in progressing regionally significant developments, including mineral extraction

proposals, infrastructure projects and renewable energy schemes. The NIAO’s conclusion is that a more efficient and accountable PAC is essential if Northern Ireland is to improve investment certainty and deliver major developments more quickly. The report is likely to add pressure on both the Department of Justice and the Department for Infrastructure to reform how major planning cases are handled and resourced over the next 12–24 months.

Still on the planning theme, the association recently wrote to the Permanent Secretary of DAERA, Katrina Godfrey, highlighting what MPANI members see as potential solutions to the current planning delays created by NIEA, and in particular Natural Environment Division, in their role as one of the most important statutory Consultees.

From a mineral operator’s point of view, these delays usually show up in four places:

1. Late First Response

Even where councils submit a consultation promptly, NIEA may not respond within the normal target period, which can leave the application stalled before substantive assessment really begins. DAERA has publicly acknowledged this backlog issue.

2. Serial Requests for More Information

A mineral application often touches several environmental themes at once: habitats, water environment, landscape, noise, dust, restoration, peat/soils, and sometimes waste or water discharge issues. NIEA’s planning input is routed through DAERA’s Planning Response Team as a single point of contact, but in practice that can still produce multiple rounds of clarification if the original submission is not tightly scoped.

3. Inconsistent Expectations at PreApplication Vs Application Stage

One common industry frustration is that issues not clearly identified early can emerge later as material objections or requests for additional assessment. That is especially painful on extension applications, which represent almost 100% of the total applied for by the sector, where operators expect the environmental baseline to be well understood but are then asked to revisit core evidence.

4.

Lack of Published Service Standards by Topic

There is a statutory consultation timeframe, but applicants often need more detail than that. For example, expected turnaround times for routine ecology consultations versus complex hydrology or designatedsite cases. Public reporting has focused on

overall consultation response times rather than detailed service standards by case type.

IN SUMMARY THE MAIN AREAS OF CONCERN FOR MPANI MEMBERS WITH SOLUTIONS ARE:

1. Seasonality of ecological assessments, which can have a significant bearing on timelines where survey windows are missed, a prompt response time is all the more critical because with every week that passes, the information which the operator has paid £1,000s to prepare is slowly going out-of-date. As we are all aware, NIEA are very strict with survey deadlines and will not accept information which is gathered outside of the defined survey seasons. There is no leeway for applicants regarding survey timescales, so for the process to work NIEA must also work to a reasonable time limit

2. In practice, many applications reach a stage where the majority of environmental issues have been addressed, with only one or two specific matters outstanding. Where further information is submitted to resolve a clearly defined issue, there could be value in prioritising that re-consultation within NIEA. This would help avoid applications sitting idle while awaiting a response on a single outstanding point, particularly where all other aspects have been accepted. A more targeted approach at this stage would also assist planning authorities in progressing applications more efficiently.

3. Again, not exclusive to NIEA performance, but it may also be helpful to acknowledge that this is a shared process and that there are opportunities to improve how planning authorities manage consultations.

4. NIEA should publish a dedicated Planning Improvement Plan for major development and mineral applications, with quarryspecific service standards, mandatory early scoping, named case leads, published performance data, and a no-surprises approach to environmental consultation.

The DEARA Private Office have been in touch and we hope to meet in late July / early August to discuss our proposals and hear about the ongoing changes and restructuring within NIEA.

If you’re interested in becoming a full or affiliate member of MPANI and get access to up-to-date Industry news and guidance don’t hesitate to give me a call on 07876 136 929. It would be great to have you on board.

May I wish you all a safe and successful 2026.

auctions and finance

AUCTIONS AND FINANCE: WHERE MACHINES MOVE FAST AND MONEY MOVES SMARTER

In construction, nothing stands still for long. One month you’re expanding a fleet, the next you’re clearing surplus kit after a project wraps up. Machines change hands, fleets get reshuffled, projects ramp up and wind down. And right in the middle of it all, auctions and finance have become the engine room keeping the industry moving.

Across Ireland, construction remains one of the most active sectors in plant and asset auctions, underlining the industry’s influence on equipment resale and fleet renewal activity. At the same time, used machinery continues to dominate transaction volumes, with industry estimates consistently placing it at a significant portion of all plant sales by volume across the UK and Ireland. From diggers and dumpers to full fleet clear-outs, today’s market isn’t just about selling plant. It’s about timing, liquidity and squeezing maximum value from every asset.

AUCTIONS: FASTER, WIDER, SMARTER

Not so long ago, selling a machine often meant waiting for the right buyer to come along. Today, things move differently. Online auctions have transformed the way plant changes hands. Buyers can bid from anywhere, sellers can reach far larger audiences and equipment can attract attention from well beyond its local market.

For contractors, dealers and fleet operators, that’s opened up opportunities that simply didn’t exist a few years ago.

WHAT’S DRIVING THE CHANGE?

• Faster turnaround times than many traditional sales routes

• Access to buyers across Ireland, the UK and beyond

• Easier bidding through online and mobile platforms

• Growing volumes of ex-hire and fleet rotation equipment entering the market

• Better condition reporting and greater transparency for buyers

A machine sitting in a yard in Belfast or Cork can now be viewed and bid on by buyers hundreds of miles away. That’s a big shift.

FINANCE: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SEEING A DEAL AND SECURING IT

Finding the right machine is one thing. Having the funds available when it comes to market is another. Construction businesses are increasingly utilising finance as a way to stay flexible, preserve working capital and react quickly when opportunities appear. Because in reality, the best equipment deals don’t always wait for cash flow to catch up.

Common options include:

• Short-term auction finance for time-sensitive purchases

• Hire purchase agreements that spread costs over time

• Leasing structures that support fleet growth without major upfront investment

• Asset refinance that releases value from existing equipment

• Repayment plans aligned with project income and contract schedules

The aim isn’t complicated. Keep equipment earning while keeping cash available for the next job.

WHY THE MARKET KEEPS EVOLVING

The plant market is being pulled in several directions at once. Businesses want flexibility. Buyers want value. Sellers want speed. And everyone is looking for ways to make equipment work harder for longer.

As a result, several trends continue to shape the market:

• Strong demand for quality used machinery

• Greater focus on refurbishment, reuse and extending asset life

• More ex-rental and fleet rotation equipment entering circulation

• Digital platforms becoming a bigger part of how equipment is bought and sold

• Continued trading activity between Ireland and the UK

Add in ongoing infrastructure investment, changing project pipelines and tighter margins and it’s easy to see why agility has become so important.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR CONTRACTORS AND FLEET OWNERS

Whether you’re running a single machine or managing a large fleet, the challenges are often the same. You need equipment that’s working. You need cash flow that’s healthy. And you need the flexibility to adapt when workloads change. That’s where auctions and finance increasingly work hand-in-hand.

Together, they help businesses:

• Turn idle equipment into working capital

• Buy and sell machinery more efficiently

• Scale fleets up or down as demand changes

• Reach wider buyer markets

• Improve returns across the entire lifecycle of an asset

Construction moves fast. The businesses that perform best are often the ones that can move just as quickly, whether that’s selling surplus equipment, securing a machine at auction or funding the next purchase without disrupting cash flow.

Auctions and finance aren’t side conversations. They’re driving the dialogue; an integral part of how modern construction businesses stay competitive, stay flexible and keep work moving.

UNITED AUCTIONS LAUNCHES AS NEW NATIONAL BRAND ACROSS CANADA FOR EURO AUCTIONS

United Auctions is the new corporate identity that brings together the five established auction businesses in Canada, operating across seven sites nationwide under a single, unified brand.

United Auctions consolidates the strengths and expertise of Michener Allen Auctioneering, Jardine Auctioneers, North Toronto Auction, Weaver Auctions, and Coast2Coast Collector Car Auctions. Together, these trusted regional brands form a powerful national network, offering comprehensive asset disposal solutions across Canada.

Importantly, the introduction of United Auctions does not replace these wellestablished brands. Each business will continue to operate under its existing name, maintaining the strong customer relationships, local expertise, and brand recognition built within their respective regions.

United Auctions serves as a unifying identity that answers key strategic needs:

Establishing a collective national name for the group of auction companies

Strengthening marketing efforts both across Canada and internationally

Communicating a seamless, unified asset disposal solution across all seven sites

“United Auctions represents the next step in our evolution,” said Derek Keys, Founder of Euro Auctions .

“It allows us to unify our vision, amplify our impact in the Canadian market, and deliver a more consistent message, both nationally and locally, while preserving the trusted brands our customers know.”

By aligning under one banner, United Auctions enhances its ability to serve customers with greater reach, efficiency, and consistency, while still leveraging the local knowledge and relationships that have driven each brand’s success.

For more information, visit www.united-auctions.com

auctions and finance

‘HOW TO’ SELL AT AUCTION – PREPARING YOUR MACHINERY FOR SALE

Auctions have become an increasingly popular route for selling used construction plant, agricultural machinery and commercial vehicles. But how do you achieve the best possible price when your equipment goes under the hammer? Operators are keeping machines for longer, extending replacement cycles from the traditional three years to four, five, or more.

As a result, now, Euro Auctions is seeing rising numbers of late-model, low-hours machines, quality trade-ins, as well as unregistered equipment entering sales from OEMs and dealerships clearing out redundant stock.

As a result, clean, well-maintained machinery is attracting strong demand and selling exceptionally well. Simply put, better kit achieves better prices. The strongestperforming lots are those that look right and are immediately “ready to work”.

Buyers will always compete harder for genuine, well-presented machines with good provenance that can go straight onto site without further expense or preparation. That is why preparing your machine properly before sale is crucial. In a competitive auction environment, presentation can make a significant difference to the final hammer price.

How can you ensure your machine stands out, gets noticed and captures the attention of buyers? Here are 10 top tips from Cathal Doherty, Euro Auctions Territory

Cathal Doherty, Euro Auctions Territory Manager for Ireland

Manager for Ireland, to help you to get ‘best price’ for your machines at auction.

1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT AUCTION

Select the correct auction to sell at, as different markets attract different buyers. Your Euro Auctions Sales Manager can advise on where to achieve the best price. For example:

• Canopy mini-excavators sell extremely well in Spain

• Zero-tail-swing excavators perform strongly at Dormagen in Germany

• Access and lifting equipment are in high demand in both Spain and Germany

• At Euro Auctions Leeds, all types of excavators sell well, with over 1,500 diggers available per auction

Also, trends change, and sometimes it makes sense to consign equipment to Yoder & Frey in the USA depending on currency and market demand. Maintaining a close relationship with your Euro Auctions representative is invaluable.

2. THINK LIKE A BUYER

Present your machines as you would want to buy them. Well-presented machines always achieves a better price. With plenty of choice at every Euro Auctions sale, making your equipment one of the best in its class is essential. Simple things, like a freshly-painted counterweight, a clean cab, or a good-quality bucket, can make the difference between being overlooked or becoming the first choice. Today, Euro Auctions is closer to the main dealership experience than ever before. Buyers no longer stand in muddy fields, instead, they enjoy modern lobbies, comfortable arenas, refreshments, and the chance to inspect and test machinery in large, well-laid-out yards.

3. DOCUMENTATION

Providing a service history adds value, particularly if carried out by a main dealer. Ensure CE documentation (Declaration of Conformity) is available, confirming compliance with EU regulations. All machines

auctions and finance

should have clear identification, with a visible and accurate serial plate. For vehicles, always supply the V5C registration document.

4. KEEP IT CLEAN

A tidy machine suggests it has been well looked after. Clean the cab, wash the floors and mats, and polish the windows. In fact, simply cleaning the cab glass can add more to the price. Buyers are wary of dirt, as it can be seen as hiding faults.

5. MIRRORS, BULBS AND WINDSCREENS

Replace broken or missing mirrors, bulbs, and light lenses. Check wiper blades, cab glass, and windscreens for cracks or damage. Small fixes show care and boost buyer confidence, and it means that they don’t have to.

6. FUEL, FILTERS AND BATTERY

Ensure the fuel tank is at least half full, the battery is charged, and filters are renewed. Buyers want to see machines start “on the button”. Evidence of regular maintenance is a big plus.

7. BODY WORK

Repair or cover-up scratches, knocks, and minor dents. Cosmetic

improvements are quick, effective, and significantly enhance presentation.

8. DRY AND DRIP-FREE

A machine leaking oil or hydraulic fluid immediately raises red flags about pumps, hoses, and seals. Fix leaks before the sale to avoid deterring bidders.

9. TYRES AND WHEELS

Fit matching tyres across all axles, ideally a reputable brand such as Goodyear or Bridgestone. Avoid swapping out good tyres for poor ones, as this can reduce sale value. Check for punctures, ensure rims are sound, and present tyres and wheels clean. Whilst painting rims is optional, cleanliness is non-negotiable.

10. ATTACHMENTS AND TOOLS

A lack of attachments can reduce bidding interest. Supply excavators with a good set of buckets in sound condition, with sharp teeth if possible. Machines presented with the right tools attract more attention and often achieve higher bids as they are ready to go to work.

THE FINAL WORD

These practical steps can make the difference between an average result and a good result!

Remember: Preparation, Presentation, and Paperwork. Paying attention to all three things will always pay off and result in a better price for your machines when they sell at auction.

This ‘How to’ guide was written by Cathal Doherty: 00353 8621 761 48

cdoherty@euroauctions.com

W: www.euroauctions.com

ABOUT EURO AUCTIONS

Founded in 1998, Euro Auctions is Europe’s leading auction house for used industrial equipment, construction equipment and agricultural machinery, hosting over 300 machinery auctions annually, in 17 permanent auction locations in the UK, Australia, Spain, Germany, United Arab Emirates, Canada and the USA.

Euro Auctions has a robust, secure and free online bidding platform to auction machines worldwide to over 150,000 interested parties and buyers from more than 100 countries.

PARTNER LOCAL. REACH GLOBAL. REAL RESULTS.

How to Maximise Success When Buying or Selling Equipment at Auction

For more than 65 years, Ritchie Bros. has connected equipment owners with buyers around the world, helping businesses sell surplus assets efficiently while enabling contractors, fleet managers and owners to source the equipment they need for future projects. The company continues to be a partner of choice with its equipment marketplace. While sellers often work with local representatives who understand their business and market conditions, their equipment is exposed to a global audience of buyers, creating competitive bidding and strong market-driven results. Whether selling a package of equipment or purchasing a single machine to add to a fleet, preparation remains one of the most important factors influencing auction success. Here are some practical dos and don’ts to help both sellers and buyers get the most out of the auction process.

SELLING EQUIPMENT? START WITH PREPARATION

1. Deliver Equipment Early

One of the biggest advantages sellers can give themselves is time. As soon as equipment arrives at a Ritchie Bros.’ yard, it can be inspected, photographed and published online. The earlier a machine appears in the auction inventory, the more exposure it receives, and the more opportunity buyers have to discover it before auction day.

2. Highlight Unique Features

Special attachments, upgrades, low operating hours or recent refurbishments can make a significant difference to buyer interest. Ensure all relevant information is shared during the consignment process so it can be included in the equipment listing and inspection report.

3. Present Equipment Professionally

First impressions matter. Clean equipment allows potential buyers to better assess conditions and can increase confidence when bidding. Where appropriate, minor repairs or cosmetic improvements may also help maximise buyer interest.

4. Provide Complete Documentation

Maintenance records, registration documents, ownership paperwork and service history can all contribute to buyer confidence. Comprehensive documentation helps buyers make informed decisions and may encourage stronger bidding activity.

5. Don’t be Intimidated by Unreserved Auctions

Many sellers are initially concerned by the concept of bidding starting at £0. However, unreserved auctions create transparency and encourage participation. With extensive marketing and a global buyer base, competitive bidding often determines true market value.

BUYING EQUIPMENT? PLAN BEFORE YOU BID

1. Research and Inspect Equipment

Before placing a bid, review all available information, including inspection reports, photographs and videos. These resources provide valuable insight into the equipment’s condition, features and documentation. Buyers can also take advantage of inspection periods at auction sites before the sale.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Online auctions can move quickly, and competitive bidding can be exciting. Establish a maximum budget beforehand and stick to it. This should include not only the purchase price but also transportation, taxes and any additional costs associated with acquiring the asset.

3. Keep an Open Mind

Many buyers join an auction with a specific machine in mind, but flexibility can create opportunities. Similar equipment from different manufacturers or models may offer comparable performance and value. Exploring the full inventory often reveals alternatives worth considering. Thanks to the watchlist feature, buyers can save equipment that catches their interest and easily revisit it later before making their final bidding decisions.

4. Register in Advance

Waiting until auction day to create an account can create unnecessary stress. Completing registration early allows buyers to verify their details, establish bidding limits and become familiar with the platform. Features such as PriorityBid can also help buyers automate their bidding strategy while maintaining spending discipline.

5. Enjoy the Thrill Online auctions combine convenience with competition. As bidding activity increases near closing time, buyers can participate in a transparent marketplace where equipment is sold to the highest bidder. Being prepared allows buyers to stay focused and take advantage of opportunities as they arise.

PREPARING DRIVES RESULTS

Whether buying or selling, successful auction participation begins long before bidding starts. Sellers who present equipment professionally and provide complete information are more likely to attract buyer interest, while buyers who conduct research and establish a clear strategy are better positioned to secure the assets they need.

In today’s connected marketplace, local expertise combined with global reach creates opportunities for both sides of the transaction. With the right preparation, buyers and sellers can achieve real results. Learn more about Ritchie Bros. at rbauction.co.uk or contact us to sell: +44 1332 819700.

Partner local. Reach global.

SANY UK LAUNCHES SANY FINANCE OFFERING TO SUPPORT CUSTOMER GROWTH

SANY Heavy Machinery (UK)

Ltd is pleased to announce the launch of SANY Finance, a new tailored finance solution designed to make it easier for customers across the UK to access SANY’s industry-leading construction equipment.

Developed in partnership with BPCE Equipment Solutions UK, SANY Finance provides customers with flexible and competitive funding options to support equipment purchases, helping businesses manage cash flow while investing in growth. The initiative reflects SANY UK’s ongoing commitment to delivering not only highquality machinery, but also customer-focused, end-toend support solutions.

BPCE Equipment Solutions is one of the leading equipment and vendor finance providers in Europe, offering innovative financial products and services to businesses across multiple industries. As part of Groupe BPCE – the fourth-largest banking group in Europe –the organisation operates in 24 countries and has maintained a strong presence in the UK since 1991.

Its expertise spans key sectors including construction, industrial, agriculture, transport, and technology, providing a comprehensive suite of solutions such as equipment loans, leasing arrangements (with or without purchase options), rental solutions, and inventory financing.

The new SANY Finance programme will enable customers to benefit from flexible repayment structures and fast access to funding, supporting contractors and plant operators in adapting to evolving market demands while maximising operational efficiency.

Harry Lonergan, External Relationship Manager at BPCE Equipment Solutions UK, commented: “BPCE Equipment Solutions UK has been

associated with SANY Heavy Machinery (UK) Ltd for over 10 years and we are proud to be supporting SANY Finance with our finance products, expertise,

and service delivery. Together we are focused on providing solutions to SANY customers who are looking for fast and flexible funding solutions.”

SANY UK believes that integrating finance into its offering will enhance the customer experience by reducing barriers to acquisition and enabling businesses of all sizes to take advantage of advanced machinery and technology.

The launch of SANY Finance marks another important step in strengthening SANY’s position in the UK market, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, accessibility, and long-term customer partnerships.

Finance will be provided, underwritten and administered by BPCE Equipment Solutions UK Limited. BPCE Equipment Solutions UK Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 717751).

THE CASH FLOW PRESSURES SHAPING INVESTMENT DECISIONS

For many Irish SMEs, the question is not whether investment is needed, but how to make it happen while keeping day-to-day cash flow on track.

Close Brothers’ research from March 2026 suggests that balancing act is becoming more pronounced. Seven in 10 firms polled said they planned to seek funding for business investment in the next 12 months; however, for 48% of them late payments are a problem, with a further 29% citing cash flow as one of their leading business concerns.

For many business owners, intent and pragmatism are different sides of the same coin, with more than a third saying they are prioritising protecting cash flow over expansion, and 37% indicating they would cut investment if costs continue to rise.

For firms operating in equipment-heavy sectors, that tension can be especially acute. Investment is still essential, but preserving liquidity matters just as much. In that environment, access to finance is only part of the answer. Businesses also need a funding partner that understands how they operate, what pressures they face and how support can be structured to best fit their ambitions.

MAKING USE OF OWNED ASSETS

For many firms, one of the most valuable resources available to them is already on the balance sheet.

Plant, machinery and commercial vehicles are central to day-to-day operations, but they can also represent capital that is tied up and unavailable for wider use. Refinance can help unlock some of that value, providing access to capital while allowing a firm to continue using the equipment as normal. This can be especially useful when firms need additional headroom to manage rising costs, support project delivery or create room for further investment. With costs –including energy, raw materials and wages - all continuing to put pressure on businesses, releasing value from owned equipment can offer a practical source of liquidity. The key is making sure the solution fits the company rather than forcing them to fit the product. A tailored refinance facility, such as sale and hire purchase back, can allow a firm to release capital from assets it already owns while retaining use of them over an agreed term helping to fund broader plans without interrupting operations.

FUNDING EQUIPMENT WITHOUT A LARGE UPFRONT OUTLAY

For firms looking to invest in new or replacement machinery, asset finance can provide a more manageable way to spread the cost.

Rather than committing a large amount of money up front, SMEs can fund equipment over time, preserving working capital while still acquiring the assets they need. That may include construction plant, engineering machinery, trailers, vans, HGVs or other specialist kit.

Emma Blair, Regional Sales Director at Close Brothers Commercial Finance says: “For many, having access to the right equipment is essential to delivering work and responding to demand. Asset finance can help firms invest without committing a large amount of cash initially, but just as important is understanding what that business is trying to achieve. Taking the time to get to know a customer means funding can be structured in a way that genuinely supports their plans.”

That relationship-led approach can be particularly valuable for those whose investment needs do not always fit a standard lending model.

UNLOCKING CASH TIED UP IN UNPAID INVOICES

For some, the biggest pressure is not the cost of equipment, but the gap between completing work and getting paid.

Late payment remains a persistent issue for Irish SMEs, and nearly half say it is a problem. When cash is tied up in unpaid invoices, the impact can be felt across the firm, from supplier payments and wages to fuel, materials and wider project costs.

Invoice finance is designed to address that challenge by releasing funds from unpaid invoices as they are raised, rather than waiting for payment terms to run their course. This can reduce pressure on working capital and provide greater certainty when managing everyday costs.

A BROADER FUNDING PACKAGE FOR MORE COMPLEX NEEDS

For larger or more established firms, a more comprehensive solution may be needed. Asset based lending (ABL) combines invoice finance with lending secured against other assets on the balance sheet, such as stock, property, plant or machinery. This can create a broader funding package for companies looking to refinance, release capital, support expansion or fund more complex events such as acquisitions or restructuring.

Paul Stephens, Head of Corporate & ABL, commented: “Businesses often need finance that reflects more than one part of the balance sheet. Asset based lending can create a package that supports working capital, investment and longer-term plans, but there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The starting point has to be understanding the firm properly, so the facility is built around its needs and ambitions.”

SUPPORTING INVESTMENT WITHOUT SLOWING PROGRESS

SMEs are still looking to invest, but they are approaching those decisions with care. Many are focusing on balancing new opportunities with strong day-to-day financial management. In that environment, the right finance partner should do more than provide capital. It should bring sector understanding, take time to build relationships and structure funding in a way that supports the business both now and in the long term. For those with capital tied up in equipment, assets or unpaid invoices, flexible finance can help bridge that gap. Whether the priority is acquiring machinery, releasing value from owned assets or improving cash flow, a tailored approach can help ambitious firms invest with greater confidence.

Past President Karen McShane

SECURING SHORES AND TRANSFORMING CITY TRAVEL

Historically CIHT carry out an annual study tour to look at best practice in relation to matters impacting Infrastructure here in Northern Ireland and learn from others’ experience. This year I had the pleasure of joining CIHT colleagues in Holland looking at flood defences and sustainable travel issues. Emerging policy in Climate Change, Sustainable Travel and Flood Risk impact on all our major projects coming through the Planning System, and CIHT therefore took the opportunity in their trip to learn from others.

THE MAESLANTKERING IN ACTION

Our first visit was to the flood tidal barrier in the Nieuwe Waterweg, a ship canal which gives Rotterdam its deep water access to the North Sea. From the Hook of Holland, it stretches approximately 20.5km and has a varying width between 480 and 675 metres. It is subject to tidal surge but also has an outflow from a branch of the River Rhine which enters the Netherlands at Spijk on the German border. The river at that point carries 5,470m3 of water a second which has to be allowed to exit to the sea.

Our visit was to part of the Delta Works, the Maeslantkering, put in operation near the mouth of the estuary in 1997 to protect the Port of Rotterdam and a significant portion of the country from Storm Surges. The concern of flash flooding highlighted

that the government Ministry State of Water Affairs wanted to ensure the protection of those living and working within the Delta, as well as maintaining the Port of Rotterdam. The barrier is one of the most impressive achievements in hydraulic engineering and is operated when the sea level reaches 3.2m above datum. Two separate barriers are installed on either side of the channel and they lift and rotate into position, allowing it to sink to the bed, creating a substantial barrier. It has already been closed in 2007, 2018 and 2023 and was resistant to tidal waves of 5m above the normal Amsterdam Water Level. To give an idea of scale, it is almost as long as the Eiffel Tower is tall. This facility combines with two other barriers to protect circa 700km of the Dutch coastline.

SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY LESSONS FROM UTRECHT AND AMSTERDAM

As well as the flooding issue, the study team spent several days in Utrecht and Amsterdam on the eco-friendly travel options. With its tree-lined canals and some 400km of cycle lanes, an eco-conscious attitude is deeply ingrained in Amsterdam’s way of life. It was clear that the bicycle had

priority over vehicles in the areas where the cycle facilities had been introduced. Taking a local road example of a 6m carriageway with 2.5m footway on either side was transformed in Utrecht to a “fietsstraten” or “Bike Street” which includes the same footway with planting but the 6m strip had been marked as two 1.5m cycle ways and one central lane of traffic. This effectively allowed for two-way cycling while the centre lane operated as a give and take with cars, as guests, pulling over if they met an oncoming vehicle. It was hard to judge the level of traffic but it was certainly no more than 200 vehicles per hour. The culture has developed with the cycle having priority and cars waiting for them to clear before making a manoeuvre. The weather and climate are not dissimilar to here and showers and cold temperatures were encountered on our visit. However, the infrastructure has been developed to encourage the cycle use. Utrecht Station hosts the world’s largest bicycle garage with 12,500 spaces and 24/7 access, digital way finding, bike rentals and repairs. It is part of a network of 30,000 cycle parking spaces across the city.

Some of the cycle routes carry 33,000 cyclists per day making them among the busiest in the Netherlands. This did not happen overnight and there has been a sustained investment since the 1970s combined with a car reduction strategy with parking limits. This includes less than 0.3 spaces per home and car free zones.

POTENTIAL FOR CHANGE

The city operates a Mobility Plan 2040 on how it will stay healthy, accessible and liveable as it rapidly grows. The Plan idea is

simple; give priority to walking, cycling, public transport and shared mobility, while reducing dependency on private cars. With the plan, Utrecht expects 35% more trips by 2040 as the population grows towards 450,000. The city responds by concentrating new housing and jobs around public transport hubs. There is no doubt that the city has aligned mobility with climate goals, energy transition and health. We all took something away from the visit and could see the potential for change allowing more people to travel in and out of a city centre. What is the best way forward for our major cities in Northern Ireland – hopefully our emerging transport plans will give us some guidance.

PLANNING THE NEXT CHAPTER

At home, May saw the AGM when Stephen Bradshaw completed his term as Chair of the Northern Ireland Region and we welcome Colin Magwood as the incoming Chair for the next session. As volunteers I thank both for their continued effort in supporting transport here in Northern Ireland. As we approach the summer recess, we will be pulling together a new programme of events for 2026-to-2027. Please do contact us if you have an exciting project that you would like to share with the membership. On behalf of the Committee, I would pass on our appreciation to all who have supported us in the last year.

JCB’S FUTURE-READY 3CX HYDROGEN IS DELIVERING POWER WITHOUT COMPROMISE

BY DAN GILKES

As the world continues to warm, there is increasing pressure on contractors, local authorities and their suppliers, to provide equipment that emits less, if any, carbon emissions. Electric cars now make up more than a quarter of the market in the UK, while batteries power just under 10% of the new van fleet and a growing percentage of the UK’s trucks.

Battery power is also becoming increasingly popular for smaller plant and machinery, with the majority of manufacturers offering at least one electric mini excavator or compact loader. Battery electric does have its drawbacks though, not least the infrastructure to charge, particularly on greenfield construction sites.

One possible solution is hydrogen. Hydrogen can be produced locally, can be transported to site and produces zero carbon when used. Initially manufacturers with an interest in hydrogen concentrated on fuel cells, already seen in passenger cars and trucks.

The fuel cell converts the chemical energy of hydrogen and oxygen, to create electricity, with the only emission being water.

However, while several manufacturers are working with fuel cell technology, others felt that it was too complex, too delicate for construction use and simply wasn’t the right solution for heavy plant. Attention then turned to burning hydrogen as a fuel, in an engine similar to a petrol or diesel engine. This produces no carbon

emissions and allows the manufacturer to use the same engine bay, transmissions and hydraulic pumps as a diesel model.

SETTING STANDARDS – AND RECORDS

At the head of this pioneering movement is UK manufacturer JCB. Chairman Lord Bamford charged his engineers with creating a hydrogen-fuelled engine, based on the company’s own diesel engines produced in Derby. Providing those engineers with £100m

of investment, the result is a hydrogen version of the firm’s 4.8-litre four-cylinder engine.

The hydrogen engine produces the same 55kW (74hp) and 440Nm of torque as the diesel engine that is also available in the 3CX. It sits within the same engine bay, drives through a similar transmission and, in extensive customer testing, offers much the same driving experience as its diesel counterpart.

The company is also set to employ two of the hydrogen engines, producing around 800hp each, to power a world land speed car in the USA later this summer, as JCB once again looks to set records on the Bonneville Salt Flats.

THE 3CX HYDROGEN

Closer to home, that technology is now being launched in a commercially available machine, the 3CX Hydrogen. The only visible difference from the outside, apart from the white and green livery, is a cap on the roof of the cab. This contains three hydrogen storage tanks, made of aluminium and wrapped in carbon fibre. The hydrogen is stored at 350 bar pressure, feeding the engine at less than 20 bar and the tanks have enough fuel to operate for a full shift.

Critically, refuelling takes around the same time as a diesel tank, so there is none of the parking up for 8 – 10 hours that is associated with a battery electric machine. JCB’s hydrogen engine has been fully Type Approved for use in non-road mobile machinery across the EU. It is also approved for use on the road, allowing the

view from the cab

backhoe loader to make its own way to and from sites, with no carbon footprint.

The 3CX Hydrogen drives through a sixspeed autoshift transmission with torque lock, permitting a maximum travel speed of up to 40kph. It offers the same all-wheel drive traction as its diesel counterpart and delivers similar performance with the front loader and the backhoe. Indeed, climb into the spacious cab and there is little to tell the operator that the machine is any different to any other 3CX. The seat is comfortable, visibility is good allround helped by LED working lights, there is Bluetooth connectivity and hands-free mobile phone operation. A 7” display to the right of the seat keeps the operator up to speed with operating data and can even provide how-to videos for new drivers.

view from the cab

The engine reacts just like the diesel too, providing easy acceleration, smooth gear shifting and strong front loader performance.

JCB claims that the six-in-one front shovel can load a 20-tonne truck in under five minutes and it offers all of the versatility to grade, load, dig and backfill that has made the backhoe loader a favourite with owner operators and contractors across the world. Standard Auto SRS loader arm suspension reduces bounce in the loader arms when travelling, reducing spillage and boosting productivity in load and carry applications. Tilt the steering column forward, spin the seat and the same excavator-style servo levers take control of the backhoe. JCB claims up to 190 tonnes/hour can be excavated with a 0.48m3 bucket and the standard extending dipper gives a reach of up to 6.5m, just like the diesel machines. The hydrogen machine can of course be used with all of the attachments that are available for the diesel 3CX, adding to its versatility.

A PARTNERSHIP WITH IMPACT

So where do you get the hydrogen from? Unlike passenger cars, construction equipment can’t visit public filling stations and has much more controlled fuelling networks. While hydrogen can be produced at a central site, making it mobile was more of a challenge. JCB has partnered with HYKIT, a hydrogen equipment company, to develop a mobile on-site refuelling solution. Mounted on a trailer, or in multiples on a larger truck, the smallest refueller contains enough hydrogen for a week’s worth

of backhoe loader use. Once empty the refueller is taken away and refilled. For much larger, longer duration sites, where there might be multiple hydrogen powered machines, generators and other equipment working, it could even be possible to produce the hydrogen on site, through electrolysis, using renewable power sources like solar and wind power. In a typical chicken and egg situation, the growing uptake in electric vehicles has resulted in numerous charging

providers setting up EV charging sites. As the number of hydrogen machines starts to grow, it is likely that additional hydrogen production sites will come online. There is no single solution to carbon reduction in construction equipment. Instead, there will be multiple solutions, including battery electric and now hydrogen. The 3CX Hydrogen proves that opting for a zero-carbon machine, should have no effect on productivity and performance.

www.dennisons.co.uk/jcb

BOBCAT FINDS ITS NEW NORTHERN IRELAND HOME WITH BOBCAT MPM

Bobcat has long been synonymous with innovation, versatility and hardworking performance. Now, the iconic brand has a new home in Northern Ireland, creating a dedicated destination where customers can experience the full strength of the Bobcat range backed by expert local support.

With the unveiling of this exciting new chapter, Bobcat MPM, operated by Terberg MPM Ireland, is committed to helping construction, agriculture and landscaping professionals work smarter, safer and more efficiently.

AN INDUSTRY LEGACY

The Bobcat MPM dealership appointment may be new, but the expertise at the helm of it is anything but.

Bobcat MPM is operated by Terberg MPM Ireland, part of the internationallyrespected Royal Terberg Group. Supplying specialist vehicles for the transportation, construction and fire and rescue industry, the family-owned organisation is renowned worldwide for industrial innovation.

Since its establishment in 2010, the business has grown from a start-up operating out of the McCluskey family garage in Hillsborough into a 30-strong operation with a significant market presence. The turning point for the business

came when a chance conversation with industry contacts Richard Woodings led to an informal meeting over the family breakfast table – and ultimately, to MPM becoming the authorised Terberg distributor for Ireland.

Terberg MPM is the sole distributor for Terberg products across Ireland, supplying the full RT, YT and DT tractor ranges. In addition to new tractors, Terberg MPM provides high-quality refurbished Terberg vehicles.

new dealership

MACHINERY YOU CAN TRUST

With a long-standing reputation built on helping operators tackle tough jobs with confidence, Bobcat equipment has become a trusted choice for the industry and a benchmark for quality. Now, through its partnership with Bobcat Company, Bobcat MPM is offering the industry easy access to the brand’s wide equipment portfolio for every job.

The new venture was officially launched at the Spring Farm Machinery Show earlier this year – following a very respectful transition process from Northern Excavators – where it generated an enthusiastic response from across the industry. And for Managing Director Mark McCluskey, the addition of the brand has been a natural, yet exciting, next step for his business.

He said: “Since working as a young sales junior, I always thought that Bobcat would be a brilliant franchise to look after. The opportunity to take it on then aligned perfectly with our company’s timing and journey. Bobcat may contrast to our

Terberg range with a differing client base, but it is in the mechanical equipment area which we are experts in and which a lot of our engineers derive from.”

As an all-encompassing source of assistance, Bobcat MPM is supporting customers with genuine Bobcat products, parts and service –from skid-steer loaders to mini excavators and everything in between, or whether it’s lifting

heavy loads, placing materials with precision, digging, hauling, levelling, or building.

“The Bobcat brand carries significant recognition and respect within the industry. The products are exceptional quality and come with a built-in brand following, giving those associated with them a strong sense of pride,” Mark continued.

A STRONG TRACK-RECORD OF EXPERIENCE

Bobcat MPM’s investment in facilities, people and training reflects its commitment to supplying customers with reliable equipment and expert service to keep their business moving.

Mark said: “As much as Bobcat MPM is integrated into the Terberg business, it’s being run as a separate division with dedicated people working on the Bobcat products. As a result, we’ve added to the service team, brought more engineers on-board and established a dedicated sales team. Each member shares my vision of providing exceptional customer care.”

new dealership

With years of hands-on experience behind them, the team knows equipment inside out. From sales specialists to factorytrained technicians and parts advisors, they focus on continued support and back-up, understanding the impact of downtime and the demands of Irish working conditions.

GROWING SUCCESS

In the relatively short period since commencing the new business division, Bobcat MPM has already been forging a noticeable impact on the industry.

Mark explained: “The numbers which we’ve sold are ahead of where we expected to be at the end of the first quarter which we are delighted about. We have also attracted

a broad spread of a customer base – from construction and hire to agriculture.

“Throughout the years, our business has very seldom had visitors on-site, and now, because we are a local business to them, we have people visiting every day just to look at the equipment.

“It’s fantastic to have that interaction with customers in-person because we’re not a corporate company – we are down-to-earth with firm family roots and committed to treating our customers how we would wish to be treated. Our new building perfectly lends itself to this increased footfall as well.”

The Hillsborough-based state-of-the-art facility in question was opened by the business just a few months ago and is

perfectly placed to help the industry enhance their operations with the Bobcat range.

The modern premises, completed over a 56-week construction period, are situated in a prime business location adjacent to the busy A1 Belfast–Dublin road. From the impressive base, the team deliver nationwide support covering machinery sales, servicing, parts and expert advice.

Mark said: “Our vision is to expand the business further. We see great opportunity in certain sectors of the industry that we can reach out to, support customers in, and grow our market share in Northern Ireland. And in the meantime, I look forward to meeting anybody who wants to come on-site and speak to our team. They are most welcome here anytime.”

Special Livery for Exsel’s Forestry Kubotas

Exsel Plant and Tool Hire

has adopted a striking black and grey colour scheme across its growing forestry fleet of Kubota KX030-4 mini excavators. The high specification machines are equipped with a full forestry cage, additional protective guards, quick hitches and a host of specialist grabs, shears and dedicated arboricultural attachments.

Based in Winchester, Hampshire, with a second depot in Southampton, Exsel currently has four 3-tonne Kubota KX030-4 mini excavators in the two-tone forestry specification, with a further two machines on order from local dealer Lister Wilder.

The forestry business has become an increasingly important sector for the company, which pairs the excavators with a wide range of chippers, stump grinders and tree shears, also delivered in the head-turning livery.

“We just wanted something that stood out as a brand,” said Managing Director, Max Pearce.

“We’ve always been with Kubota, from day one. We’ve got 67 Kubota machines on the fleet in total, from 0.8-3 tonnes.

“We looked at other manufacturers, but Kubota had everything we were looking for in our machines. Kubota is just that step ahead.”

Exsel Plant & Tool was established in 2005, by Mr Pearce’s father.

Max took over the business in 2019 and immediately started to expand and drive the company into new areas.

The firm now has customers across civil engineering, house building and many other construction sectors, along with the growing forestry division.

The company entered the forestry business, as Mr Pearce had friends in the sector who simply couldn’t get the machinery and service that they required, so he decided to provide the equipment and the level of service that they needed. The move has been a big success with equipment on long-term hire across the country.

Getting Kubota to provide a factory-finished machine in grey and black, was not the easiest

task at first, but the manufacturer is now happy to deliver machines in this eye-catching paint scheme. Indeed, the black and grey mini excavators have made such an impact, that other local businesses have enquired if they too can have a dedicated livery.

With the forestry machines on longer term hire contracts, they can be in use across the UK. Exsel does have its own service engineers, however the company also uses dealer backup, particularly when machines are working further afield.

“We cover about 90% of the country with these machines,” said Mr Pearce. “Lister Wilder’s network of depots has been really good for us though, providing back-up

when needed. We maintain and look after the machines ourselves, but if a machine goes down, there’s a replacement available straight away.”

One of the attractions of the Kubota excavators has been their residual value when the time comes to change. Perhaps surprisingly, the black and grey colour scheme is no barrier to used equipment demand and the company has no concerns about resale values.

“We normally update our machinery on a three-year cycle, just as a personal preference. You’re not looking at any major maintenance at three years,” said Mr Pearce.

“The Kubotas hold their value really well.”

Charlie King, Managing Director of Lister Wilder, said: “We’ve really enjoyed working with Max and the team at Exsel Plant and Tool Hire. They run a highly professional operation, with a clear focus on quality equipment and customer service, that aligns closely with our own values at Lister Wilder.

“Supplying Exsel with Kubota mini excavators has been a great fit and it’s been fantastic to see how confidently the team has integrated these machines into their hire fleet. We look forward to continuing to support Exsel’s growth.”

Lyons Announces Start of Public Realm Works in Downpatrick

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced that public realm works in the Church Street and De Courcy Place areas of Downpatrick will start this summer.

The Department for Communities has provided £2.5 million of funding for the scheme, with a contribution of £400,000 from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. Newly-appointed contractors, John McQuillan Contracts Ltd, are now working in partnership with scheme consultants AECOM to prepare for on-site works commencing in the summer of 2026.

The works will take place on Church Street from Pillar Well Lane to the Scotch Street junction, and on De Courcy Place/

Lower English Street from the Church Street junction to the frontage of Denvir’s Hotel. The scheme will focus on providing a long overdue renewal and upgrade of the area, including new footpath surfacing, comprising granite paving with natural stone kerbs; tactile paving for pedestrian crossings; replacement traffic signals; street furniture planters; new street trees; and new streetlights.

Welcoming the scheme, Minister Lyons said: “I am pleased that work to improve this historic part of Downpatrick will soon be commencing. This major investment will complement previously completed schemes within Downpatrick and will help unlock wider physical and social regeneration

within the town centre to encourage more visitors and tourists to the area, providing a welcome boost for the local economy.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said: “This investment is long overdue, represents a key output from the Downpatrick Living High Street Framework and is a great opportunity to further boost the overall regeneration and growth of the town. Council is fully aware of the disruption already experienced on the street from the advance utility works and will work closely with government agencies and the public realm contractor regarding traffic management and overall delivery of the works.”

KIBAG has become the first company in the world to put an autonomous Develon ‘Real-X’ crawler excavator into practical use.

DEVELON REACHES NEW MILESTONE IN AUTONOMOUS EARTHMOVING

History has been made in Tuggen, in the canton of Schwyz in Switzerland. KIBAG, one of Switzerland’s leading companies in the building materials and construction sector, has become the first company in the world to put an autonomous Develon ‘Real-X’ crawler excavator – a joint development with Gravis Robotics – into practical use. It may have been surprising to onlookers to see executives from leading companies in Switzerland, France, Germany and South Korea travelling to Tuggen for the handover of a crawler excavator and to watch it digging. However, a closer look would have revealed that there was no operator in the cab and that the machine was not being operated by remote control.

Urs Helbling, CEO of AG für Baumaschinen Schmerikon (AGFBS), the Develon dealer in Switzerland, explained that this moment had been preceded by two years of preparatory work. The key players here are the AI-powered Real-X system on a Develon DX225LC-7X excavator and a company that is open to the use of new technologies. “Today is a special day for all of us. This is no ordinary machine handover, but a step into the future of construction,” says Christoph Duijts, CEO of KIBAG.

OPEN TO NEW TECHNOLOGY

Founded in 1926, KIBAG is a family-run business, which employs more than 2,000 people and operates primarily in three business areas: building materials, construction services and the environment and waste management. It operates 14 gravel pits, three quarries, 25 concrete plants and 17 construction companies specialising in road construction, civil engineering and specialist sectors. In addition, there are recycling and waste management companies

as well as service providers in the leisure sector that form part of the business.

KIBAG CPO, Urs Kordeuter, explains that the company’s fleet comprises 2000 construction machines of all sizes. To ensure the fleet remains at the cutting edge of technology, 200 of these are replaced annually. In the interests of sustainability, the company is currently investing particularly in electricpowered equipment and is collaborating with various construction machinery manufacturers – though not with Develon until now. The reason this has now changed is that Develon is further ahead than other manufacturers in the field of autonomous machinery, according to Urs Kordeuter.

As a pioneer in autonomous machine technology, Develon, formerly known as Doosan Construction Equipment, unveiled its Concept-X system in 2019 and used this to showcase the unmanned construction site, where safety and efficiency are enhanced through the use of 5G networks, drone surveying and autonomous machine control. The aim – as with the Concept-X2 extension unveiled in 2023 –was to achieve full autonomy by 2030.

At bauma 2025, Develon took the next step with Real-X, creating a new intelligent

crawler excavator capable of autonomously carrying out trench excavation, earthworks and truck loading. Real-X is the result of an agreement between HD XiteSolution (HDX), the holding company of Develon, and Gravis Robotics AG. Founded in October 2022, Gravis Robotics is a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH). The company’s core expertise lies in developing learning-based control systems as retrofit kits and software that transform machines into fully autonomous robots capable of performing complex tasks.

Dominic Jud, CTO and Co-Founder of Gravis Robotics, explained that the company has gained experience through the use of autonomous machines in pipeline construction. “We were able to build on that, yet every project presents new challenges –be it the depth of the trench or the ground conditions,” said Dominic Jud. Just how mature this technology has become was recently demonstrated for 900 dealers, customers and trade journalists at the Develon Demo Days in the Czech Republic in April. Many were fascinated by the precision offered by this autonomous excavator solution.

EXCELLENT RESULTS

The new machine in Switzerland is being used on the site of a former KIBAG quarry, which is now being restored to its natural state. The backfilling has already been completed, terraces have been created, and a road is also planned for the site in the future. Whilst the operation of autonomous construction machinery in public spaces is not yet clearly regulated, the machine can be operated autonomously on KIBAG’s private land, supervised by a technical supervisor. Site Manager, Gabriel Hasler, has tasked the new Develon DX225LC-7X excavator with digging a trench 300 metres long, six metres wide and three metres deep. This is to be filled mainly with rocky material to prevent the foot of the hill from slipping. “We are replacing

of the teams.

poor-quality material with significantly better material,” explained Gabriel Hasler. “The machine is doing an exceptional job,” he said, much to the delight of Panyoung Kim and GyeBong Jang, Senior Vice President and Head of Robotics AI at HD XiteSolution, respectively, who watched the operation with pride. All parties involved particularly emphasise how smooth and trusting the collaboration has been at every stage of the project.

“The idea for this project was conceived in 2024 based on a prototype from Develon,” Urs Helbling, CEO of AGFBS, added. “We then made the necessary contacts at bauma 2025, and in the summer of 2025, KIBAG decided to use the DX225LC-7X in this configuration,” he continued. It is precisely the shortage of skilled workers that makes a machine promising a 30% improvement in performance for trench excavation, earthworks and truck loading, along with a

profitability of 100% or more, an attractive investment. Not to be overlooked here is the Gravis rack, which is so simply designed that site teams can quickly learn how to operate it.

“We will continue to enhance safety and efficiency on construction sites with our innovations,” said Gilles Bendaoud, Vice President Key Accounts/Remarketing Europe at Develon, noting that, in addition to Real-X, the company has also developed E-Stop and the transparent wheel loader bucket to increase site safety.

“Even though there are still a few legal hurdles to overcome, we have taken another significant step towards the vision of the autonomous construction site today,” said Martin Gering, Key Account Manager GSA & EE at Develon, at the conclusion of the event marking the symbolic handover of the DX225LC-7X to KIBAG.

transitioning to net zero

NET ZERO: CONSTRUCTION’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE –AND GREATEST OPPORTUNITY

zero isn’t coming, it’s already here.

Across Ireland, the construction industry is facing one of the biggest transformations in its history. From tighter regulations and changing client expectations to new materials and smarter technologies, the race to reduce carbon emissions is reshaping the way we build. For some, net zero represents another compliance hurdle. For others, it’s a chance to innovate, win new business and futureproof their operations. Either way, one thing is clear: sustainability has moved from the sidelines to centre stage.

MORE THAN JUST ENERGY BILLS

When people think about low-carbon buildings, they often think about solar panels, heat pumps and better insulation. While these measures are important, the conversation has evolved. Today, the focus is not only on how buildings perform once they’re occupied but also on the carbon generated before the keys are even handed over.

From manufacturing concrete and steel to transporting materials and operating machinery on site, every stage of construction carries a carbon cost. Reducing those emissions is becoming a major priority for developers, contractors and policymakers alike.

Carbon reporting is also becoming part of everyday business. Clients want evidence, not promises, and companies are being asked to show exactly how they plan to reduce emissions across projects.

In short, sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have. It’s becoming a key factor in winning work.

IRELAND’S NET ZERO PUSH

Ireland is following a path of ambitious climate targets driving change throughout the built environment.

New homes are now expected to meet much higher energy performance standards than those built just a decade ago. Heat pumps, renewable energy systems and airtight construction methods have become increasingly common across residential developments.

But perhaps one of the biggest opportunities lies in retrofitting. Thousands of existing homes and commercial buildings require significant upgrades if Ireland is to meet its climate goals. That creates a growing market for contractors with expertise in energy efficiency, building upgrades and low-carbon solutions.

THE EMBODIED CARBON QUESTION

Many designers and contractors are exploring lower-carbon alternatives, including recycled materials, low-carbon concrete mixes and engineered timber products.

The question is shifting from “What should we build?” to “How can we build it with less carbon?”

BUILDING SMARTER

Technology is playing a major role in helping answer that question. Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins and advanced carbon assessment tools are allowing project teams to understand environmental impacts much earlier in the design process.

Off-site manufacturing and modern methods of construction are also helping to reduce waste, improve efficiency and cut emissions associated with traditional building techniques. Construction plant is significantly changing, with electric and hybrid equipment becoming increasingly visible on sites across Ireland and the UK.

THE BUSINESS CASE IS GROWING

While environmental targets often dominate the conversation, there is a strong commercial argument for embracing net zero.

Investors are paying closer attention to sustainability performance. Occupiers want energy-efficient buildings with lower running costs. Clients are increasingly favouring contractors that can demonstrate a clear commitment to carbon reduction.

For construction firms, sustainability is becoming a competitive advantage. Those that invest in skills, innovation and lowcarbon solutions today are likely to be best positioned for tomorrow’s opportunities.

LOOKING AHEAD

The road to net zero won’t be easy. Cost pressures, skills shortages and supply-chain challenges remain significant hurdles. But the direction of travel is clear. Construction has always adapted to changing demands, whether through new regulations, technologies or market conditions. Net zero is simply the next chapter in that story.

The companies that embrace the challenge won’t just reduce emissions, they’ll help define the future of construction across Ireland and further afield. And in an industry built on shaping the world around us, that’s an opportunity worth building for.

HVO Renewable Diesel

The sustainable option for businesses who want to help the environment.

Fuelled by years of early investment and leadership in the field of renewable energy, Texaco HVO Renewable Diesel is lower in carbon and burns cleaner than regular diesel. Its high cetane count enhances engine performance and gives a smoother delivery that performs well in both cold and warm climates. As a drop-in fuel with a chemical makeup that’s the same as regular petroleum-based diesel, no engine or infrastructure changes are needed.

Scan the QR Code for more

Why Texaco HVO Renewable Diesel is the better choice:

100% renewable and sustainable

Up to 90% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to regular diesel

Chemically the same as petroleum-based diesel

Burns cleaner with a lower carbon footprint

Provides higher engine performance

Performs in cold and warm climates

Cost-competitive

More reliable than electric vehicles

Significantly lower greenhouse gases than hybrid and electric vehicles

Guaranteed performance

POWERING PROGRESS: DECARBONISING CONSTRUCTION THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

Decarbonisation is no longer a future ambition for the construction sector, it is an immediate priority. Across the UK and Ireland, organisations continue to advance operational excellence, driving the ongoing reduction of emissions while supporting business growth and aligning with national Net Zero targets.

At the forefront of this transition is Creagh Concrete, whose latest initiative in collaboration with WR Kennedy demonstrates how practical, scalable solutions can deliver meaningful results. Creagh’s sustainability strategy is underpinned by its comprehensive Net Zero Roadmap, a

structured pathway to eliminate carbon emissions across its operations by 2050, supported by five-year milestone targets. This roadmap addresses both direct emissions (Scope 1 and 2) and engages with the wider supply chain (Scope 3), reflecting a commitment to emissions removal within its control; but also to influencing change across the sector.

Speaking on the company’s approach, Creagh’s Managing Director James McKeague emphasised the urgency of this transition:“Decarbonisation is paramount within the construction industry. Creagh are determined to achieve its Net Zero objectives set out in our Net Zero Roadmap. Through strategic planning and implementation, we are projected to exceed our 2026 year target by investing in the switch to 100% certified renewable electricity supply.”

This ambition is already translating into tangible outcomes. Through a series of targeted initiatives, from reducing cement content in products to investing in renewable energy Creagh has consistently delivered measurable reductions in carbon emissions. The business recently confirmed it is on course to exceed its 2026 carbon reduction target by approximately 300 tonnes, further reinforcing the effectiveness of its roadmap-driven approach.

A key contributor to this progress is Creagh’s recent partnership with WR Kennedy, a leading fuels and lubricants wholesaler operating province-wide and the authorised distributor for Texaco Lubricants in Northern Ireland. The collaboration centres on the introduction of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), HVO delivers 90% emissions reduction compared with Diesel fuel, into Creagh’s transport fleet.

The trial involves two ready-mix concrete trucks operating on HVO fuel. One of the major advantages of HVO is its ability to act as a direct ‘drop-in’ replacement for conventional diesel. This means no mechanical modifications or software upgrades for modern trucks, allowing for seamless integration into existing operations.

As a result, Creagh has been able to implement the solution quickly and efficiently, without any disruption to its customers.

Operational performance remains a critical factor in any fuel transition, particularly in construction logistics where customer service is paramount. Several weeks into the trial, driver feedback has confirmed that the switch to HVO has had no adverse impact on vehicle performance, even across varied terrains and operating conditions.

Maintaining performance integrity while reducing emissions is a key benchmark for success, and early indicators suggest this initiative is delivering on both fronts.

The environmental benefits are equally compelling. Collectively, the two vehicles cover an annual distance of 47,709 miles. By switching to HVO, the calculated emissions reduction amounts to 69.98 tonnes of CO2e emissions each year. To contextualise this saving, it is equivalent to burning approximately 1,414, 25kg bags of coal annually, an illustration that highlights the scale of impact achievable through relatively straightforward changes.

This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to decarbonise transport energy, which is recognised as a significant contributor to Creagh’s overall emissions profile. Replacing traditional fuels with renewable alternatives such as HVO represents an important interim solution, particularly while longer-term technologies such as hydrogen and Biomethane continue to mature.

Crucially, the partnership with WR Kennedy demonstrates the importance of collaboration across the supply chain. Achieving Net Zero cannot be done in isolation; it requires alignment between manufacturers, suppliers, and technology providers. By working with an established distributor like WR Kennedy, Creagh has ensured a reliable and scalable fuel supply while supporting the wider adoption of lowcarbon alternatives across Northern Ireland. Beyond transport, Creagh continues to invest heavily in decarbonisation initiatives across all areas of its operations. Creagh installed a wind turbine on its main flooring factory which exports excess renewable electricity to the regional grid contributing to the greater regional decarbonisation objectives set by Government, while also optimising energy use through advanced monitoring systems,

and implementing continuous improvement which reduces process fuel emissions. The aggregation of marginal emissions reductions across multiple internal processes results in a cumulative impact that is greater than the sum of its parts. Whether through material innovation, strategic investments, or operational efficiency, Creagh’s approach reflects a clear understanding that Net Zero will be achieved through a combination of incremental gains and strategic transformation.

Creagh’s partnership with WR Kennedy to introduce HVO is a clear example of strategy becoming action. In the face of the climate challenge, the company is demonstrating the innovation, adaptability and commitment required to drive meaningful progress towards Net Zero.

transitioning to net zero

ACTION PLAN FOR OFFSHORE WIND ENERGY LAUNCHED AS FIRST PROJECTS EXPECT TO GET PLANNING THIS YEAR

Wind Energy Ireland has launched its Offshore Wind Action Plan 2026, setting out the urgent steps needed to accelerate the delivery of offshore wind energy and achieve energy independence for Ireland.

The plan, launched before more than 400 delegates at the annual Offshore Wind Conference in the Clayton Burlington Hotel in Dublin, comes at a time of rising costs for households and businesses driven by continued reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Minister Darragh O’Brien TD delivered the keynote address on Day One of the conference, while Minister Timmy Dooley TD delivered the keynote address on Day Two.

Recent research from the ESRI confirms that Ireland’s electricity prices are the highest in Europe because of its dependence on imported gas.

The action plan highlights significant progress over the last 12 months driven by the Taoiseach’s new Clearing House for Offshore Wind Energy and a successful auction for the new Tonn Nua offshore project on the south coast, with industry confident that the first

planning decisions on east-coast offshore projects can be expected later this year.

However, while progress is clear, challenges remain and the plan identifies 18 actions for delivery over the next 12 months with key priorities including:

• An Coimisiún Pleanála must be supported to deliver on its commitment to offshore wind planning decision timelines – including getting the first decision out in September

• The CRU, EirGrid and industry must finalise all grid agreements and specifications for the existing east-coast projects so they can connect to the grid

• Clarity is needed on Ireland’s future offshore wind pipeline, which sites will be available to progress and when

• The government must publish the National Ports Policy and, where a strong and credible business case is made, facilitate state investment in ports so they can build Irish offshore wind farms

• The government should advance plans for coastal Green Energy Parks which use offshore wind energy to attract new industries and create jobs

Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, said: “Irish families and businesses are living through their second global fossil fuel energy crisis in five years. As long as we choose to depend on energy imports, in an increasingly volatile and erratic fossil fuel market, we are vulnerable.

“And when the next crisis hits, pensioners will, again, worry about the price of heating oil. Transport, fishing and agricultural sectors will, again, face enormous pressures as diesel prices rise. Families will, again, sit at the kitchen table looking in disbelief at their electricity bill.

“Let’s make a different choice. We choose Irish energy independence. We choose to generate our own clean and affordable power from our own enormous offshore wind energy resources. We can transport this on our upgraded grid, we can store this using new technologies, like long-duration energy storage.

“We can invest in electrification and use our opportunity as holders of the EU Presidency later this year to prioritise the coming European Electrification Action Plan.”

Achieving this will require a concerted and joined-up effort right across the policy system to enable the first phase of projects to be built and energised in the early 2030s.

Power you can trust

Liebherr Portable Power products provide reliable solutions for remote power challenges across all applications – from equipment charging and site welfare to accommodation, events, utilities, and more. They can even serve as a standalone power source where grid access is limited or unavailable.

Renowned for its extensive portfolio of construction, material-handling, and lifting equipment, Liebherr Ireland introduces its latest innovation: the Liduro Power Port LPO 100.

Compact, trailer-mountable, and powered by lithium-ion technology, the LPO 100 delivers low noise and zero emissions. Designed to optimise loads and reduce overall capacity requirements, it ensures efficiency without compromise. With Liebherr, you and your customers can count on dependable power – whenever and wherever you need it most.

SHANNON VALLEY GROUP IS COMMITTED TO THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY FROM THE GROUND UP transitioning to net zero

Shannon Valley Group is redefining the future of construction by proving that sustainable progress comes from unlocking the full potential of existing resources.

From large-scale earthmoving to complete infrastructure development, the business leverages 35 years of in-house expertise to shape communities that will stand for generations. It is ultimately transforming the way industry projects are approached and successfully showcasing that environmental stewardship and operational excellence can work in harmony together.

INNOVATION FROM THE OUTSET

As an early innovator, Shannon Valley Group embraced circular economy principles well before Ireland’s 2021 Circular Economy Strategy, implementing soil stabilisation at Baldonnell Business Park in 2020 and drawing on over a decade of international experience. The company further demonstrated leadership by securing an EPA end-of-

waste decision for recycled aggregates in 2022, helping shape national policy. Rather than viewing excavated soils and demolition materials as waste, Shannon Valley Group sees them as valuable resources with untapped potential. Through innovative treatment, recovery and reuse processes, the company has developed a model that keeps materials in productive use. The result is a more resilient, resource-efficient approach to construction that delivers measurable environmental and economic benefits. Driven by investment in people, technology and innovation, and supported by strong partnerships across industry, academia and government, Shannon Valley Group is helping to shape a more sustainable future for Ireland’s construction sector. Its circular economy journey demonstrates how businesses can become catalysts for meaningful environmental change.

SETTING THE STANDARD IN SOIL STABILISATION AND MATERIAL REUSE

Across Ireland, Shannon Valley Group is delivering fully-integrated ground engineering solutions – transforming unsuitable soils into certified structural platforms, ready for construction.

The company’s model goes beyond traditional stabilisation, combining:

• Advanced binder stabilisation techniques

• High-energy dynamic compaction

• In-situ soil processing and precision blending

Through this, the team is consistently delivering engineered platforms with predictable performance and reduced programme risk. But the real shift is in how materials are managed. Through controlled on-site processing, Shannon Valley Group:

• Reuses existing soils as structural materials

• Recovers and reintroduce aggregates back into the works

• Significantly reduces reliance on imported stone

• Minimises waste export and associated levies

This is not just sustainability – it is compliant, engineered reuse aligned with evolving regulatory frameworks, including Article 27 by-product classification and circular economy targets. The result is lower costs, reduced carbon, faster delivery and fully-controlled outcomes.

CREATING LASTING VALUE

Expanding on its commitment to material reuse, Shannon Valley Group has developed a mobile aggregate recovery system in which excavated material is screened to separate soil for stabilisation and rock, which is then crushed, scrubbed and graded into aggregates. These products are reused for drainage, backfill, and general construction purposes, directly reducing quarry imports and associated emissions. The recovery process is designed around circular economy principles, too, in that in projects such as Seven Mills, water is continuously recycled within the process and silt particles reused in stabilisation.

In further representation of the company’s commitment to circularity, site-won topsoil, subsoil, and stone are repurposed into structural soils and landscaping products, subsequently reducing transport costs and emissions and enabling reinvestment into added-value ingredients. The decision to incorporate Biochar into the soil mixes has had demonstrable positive sustainability results too.

Beyond greenfield sites, Shannon Valley Group’s circular approach additionally

transitioning to net zero

incorporates previously-developed brownfield sites. Using its demolition equipment and crushers, it transforms demolition materials into recycled aggregates. These are tested for compliance before being repurposed for levelling, backfilling, and as direct replacements for imported aggregate.

SUSTAINABILITY BY THE NUMBERS

• Seven Mills Development: On-site recovery will produce over 180,000 tonnes of aggregate

• Lanestown View: Stabilising 18,300 m³ saved 180 tonnes of CO2 and reduced truck travel by 178,000 km, easing local traffic by 65%

• Profile Park Data Centre: On-site stabilisation combined with HVO fuel saved 2,390 tonnes of CO2 during construction

• 14 new site-won landscaping soils developed, replacing thousands of tonnes of imported materials

LOOKING AHEAD

Shannon Valley Group’s long-term vision is to operate a fully circular model wherever

possible, reusing site-won materials, reducing reliance on virgin aggregates, and eliminating unnecessary waste. The company’s strategic priorities for the years ahead include:

• Advancing soil stabilisation through the development of alternative low-carbon binders and replacing chemical reactions with mechanical strength improvements

• Enhancing aggregate recovery to include sand plants for finer material separation. They are also exploring the potential to develop an in-house scrubbing machine that uses less water than current market options

• Expanding the range of site-won derived products. Ranging from kerbs, footpaths, road capping layers, and eventually bricks, all made directly on-site

• Strengthening education and research partnerships by continuing collaborations with academic institutions, supporting research projects, and promoting the transfer of knowledge across the construction industry

HOLCIM PLUGS IN TO E-POWER AFTER ADDING ELECTRIC LOADING SHOVELS TO UK SITES

Holcim UK is rolling out 20 new electric loading shovels to its fleet as part of its ongoing aim of decarbonising its operations.

The leading sustainable building solutions provider has added the LiuGong 870HE wheel loader to its roster – one of the largest tonnage pure electric vehicles of its type in the industry.

Powered by a 423kWh LFP battery, the 24,640kg loaders have a 4.7 m3 bucket capacity and have a fast charging capability of 80 minutes and a run time of up to nine hours.

The new machines are being delivered to selected aggregate and asphalt sites across Holcim’s UK network after a successful year-long trial at the company’s Callow Rock Quarry in Somerset.

The site was chosen due to its challenging conditions including steep inclines and

the variety of demand and workload.

With an on-site 200 KW charger, the machine ran 6am to 5pm with a 30 minute lunchtime charge included.

Tom Redfern, Head of Sustainability at Holcim UK, said: “We’re delighted to be working with LiuGong to further grow the number of electric vehicles in our fleet as part of our ongoing decarbonisation plans.

“The machines have demonstrated really strong performance in challenging conditions and have clear environmental and cost benefits alongside positive driver reaction. LiuGong was also very responsive to our feedback and incorporated that into the design of the cab.

“These machines support our drive towards net zero through zero-emission operation and will play an ever increasingly important role to deliver on climate commitments.What has also

been so pleasing about the machines is that we have been able to do this whilst enjoying great uptime and lower operating costs.”

Harry Mellor, Sales Director of LiuGong UK & Ireland, commented: “We are proud to support Holcim UK as it continues to develop a more sustainable fleet with LiuGong equipment. This roll-out is a strong example of how close partnership, proven technology, and operational confidence come together to accelerate the adoption of electric machinery in the UK market.”

Holcim UK had previously worked with LiuGong to introduce the first electric loading shovel to operate in Europe in 2023.

The new loading shovels join a growing fleet of electric vehicles across the company’s UK sites, including e-mixer trucks, cement lorries, mobile plant and on-site 4x4s and utility vehicles.

IT’S NOT JUST MERLO’S MACHINES THAT ARE RESPECTFUL TO THE ENVIRONMENT

How a sustainability mindset is shaping the future of construction and agriculture – starting from the factory floor.

Merlo is known across the world for its innovative handling solutions – but the company’s commitment to sustainability runs deeper than the green paint on its machines. From cutting-edge electric telehandlers to solar-powered facilities and circular waste systems, Merlo is driving a comprehensive, group-wide shift towards cleaner, smarter operations. And this transformation isn’t just happening in Italy. The UK team is taking the same ambitious steps, proving that sustainability is not a one-off project – it’s a culture.

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE SOURCE: INSIDE THE ITALIAN FACTORY

At Merlo Group’s headquarters near Cuneo, Piedmont, sustainability begins long before a machine leaves the production line.

The site is powered in part by an extensive photovoltaic array, which in 2024 alone produced 1,150 MWh of clean energy – avoiding approximately 750 tonnes of CO2 emissions, the equivalent of planting over 4,500 trees. The goal? To reach energy parity generating as much electricity as the site consumes.

But green power is just the start.

CIRCULAR THINKING: WASTE REDUCTION AND MATERIAL RECOVERY

Merlo has taken major steps to minimise its environmental impact through smart waste and resource strategies:

• Over 30 compacting presses manage the recycling of cardboard and plastic packaging

• Metal filings and scrap offcuts from sheets are systematically collected for reprocessing

• Employees are encouraged to shut down IT equipment when not in use – small actions that, collectively, lead to substantial energy savings

• Sensor-activated taps minimise waste water in restrooms, while digital transformation initiatives have drastically cut printed paper usage by transitioning communication and records to digital platforms

These might sound like operational details – but they reflect a much larger ambition: to build machines sustainably, from the inside out.

EFFICIENCY WHERE IT MATTERS

Energy-saving measures continue across the facility:

• A site-wide transition to LED lighting is underway, with systems that use up to 90% less energy than traditional fixtures

• Dusk sensors and automated heating systems regulate lighting and temperature in key departments, using smart home tech to avoid waste

• New production buildings are being built with enhanced insulation, ensuring thermal efficiency and reducing heating and cooling demands

• Upgraded production equipment and streamlined logistics reduce internal fuel consumption and optimise operations

transitioning to net zero

Every innovation within the factory is designed to do more with less – less energy, less waste, and fewer emissions.

GENERATION ZERO: SUSTAINABLE MACHINES FOR A MODERN WORLD

Merlo’s environmental commitment doesn’t end at the factory gates. It’s carried forward into the machines themselves.

The eWorker, Merlo’s fully electric telehandler, is a standout. Zero-emission, near-silent, and packed with ecoinnovation – from regenerative braking and auto start-stop to a recyclable battery system – it’s proof that green performance doesn’t mean compromise. Also in the spotlight are the ROTO Plug & Play Hybrid, delivering full-size performance with significantly reduced emissions, and the eCINGO, a compact, electric tracked carrier built for clean operation in confined or indoor environments. But these are just the beginning. Several other models in the Generation Zero line are currently in concept development or preproduction, set to expand Merlo’s sustainable range even further. As these machines transition from prototype to production,

they will reinforce the group’s long-term commitment to offering a complete portfolio of low- and zero-emission handling solutions. Together, they signal that sustainable handling isn’t a distant goal – it’s an evolving reality. And Merlo is leading the way.

MERLO UK: FOLLOWING IN SUSTAINABLE FOOTSTEPS

In the UK, the green ethos is equally strong. Merlo UK has embraced solar energy at its base in Ringwood, Hampshire, where rooftop panels now help power operations and employee vehicles. Any unused energy is fed back into the grid – closing the loop on responsible energy use. Where appropriate, the car policy is for hybrid vehicles, while recyclable packaging has replacing traditional materials in logistics and parts distribution.

In 2023, Merlo also began a gradual transition to more sustainable shipping methods for machines bound for the UK. Where possible, units are transported across Europe via electric freight trains, with sea crossings handled by hybrid LNG/electric vessels –further reducing the carbon footprint of every machine before it even reaches UK soil.

These are not just token efforts – they’re part of a long-term commitment to embed sustainability into every corner of the business.

SUSTAINABILITY IS IN OUR DNA

Whether it’s a technician shutting down their workstation to save power, a manager reviewing LED retrofitting plans, or an engineer fine-tuning a new-generation electric telehandler, Merlo’s teams – across Italy and the Merlo group – are united by a shared goal: to create a cleaner, smarter, more sustainable future.

As Shaun Groom, Managing Director of Merlo UK, puts it: “We all have a responsibility to future generations. Sustainability is about more than the machines we deliver – it’s about how we build them, how we power them, and how we run our business day-to-day.”

It’s not just the machines that are evolving. It’s the mindset.

MERLO’S SUSTAINABILITY IN NUMBERS

1,150 MWh of solar energy produced (2024)

750 tonnes of CO2 saved –equal to planting 4,500+ trees

Over 30 compacting presses across the factory

90% energy savings from LED lighting rollout

100% electric

eWorker telehandler in production

CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT HOSTS 2026

EUROPEAN DEALER CONVENTION IN LECCE

“We Build Big”: Driving Growth Through Partnership, Innovation, and Customer Focus

CASE Construction Equipment hosted its 2026 European Dealer Convention in Lecce, bringing together 120 participants from more than 60 dealerships across Europe. The event served as a key moment to align on strategy, share insights, and reinforce the company’s commitment to growth through strong partnerships.

The event took place at one of CNH’s most important industrial sites, highlighting the strategic role of the Lecce plant as both a manufacturing hub and a centre of innovation. With significant ongoing investments in technology, capacity and sustainability, the facility represents a cornerstone of CASE’s global operations.

During the event, CASE leadership outlined the company’s strategic direction, confirming Europe as a core market, with the dealer network recognised as a fundamental driver of customer value and business success.

The comprehensive agenda addressed all key aspects of the construction equipment business. Market analysis

highlighted a stable but evolving European landscape, with growth opportunities linked to infrastructure development and increasing demand for flexible ownership models, such as rental and used equipment. Innovation remained a central theme, with updates on product development across both compact and heavy equipment lines, as well as advancements

in automation, electrification, and digital technologies.

Special application machines and tailored solutions were presented as key opportunities to address niche markets and expand business potential.

Marketing and customer engagement strategies were presented, focusing on strengthening brand awareness, enhancing customer experience, and supporting dealers through digital tools, local events, training programmes, and targeted initiatives.

Aftersales and customer support were highlighted as critical areas for long-term success. Initiatives aimed at improving parts availability, enhancing service efficiency, and leveraging telematics for predictive maintenance are designed to increase machine uptime and strengthen customer loyalty.

CNH Capital showcased a range of solutions, to support both dealers and customers. Flexible financing, rentalfocused products, and liquidity tools are intended to facilitate

european dealer convention

sales and improve overall business performance.

In all interventions dealers were recognised as strategic partners and a key driver of CASE’s success across all markets. The event concluded with a strong call to action: turning the energy, insights, and collaboration of the convention

into concrete actions and driving tangible results in the market.

As EMEA Vice President Ciro Casapulla said during his speech:

““WE BUILD BIG” is more than just a claim: “WE means that none of us wins alone. We move as one: the brand, the plants, the central functions, and you, our dealers on the front line. BUILD is our

daily action: we don’t just build machines, we build relationships and trust. BIG reflects the scale of our ambition and our effort. And above all, we build it together.”

NOW IT’S TIME TO BUILD BIG.

CASE Construction Equipment sells and supports a full line of construction equipment around the world, including backhoe loaders, excavators, motor graders, wheel loaders, vibratory compaction rollers, crawler dozers, skid steers, compact track loaders and forklifts. Through CASE dealers, customers have access to a true professional partner with world-class equipment and aftermarket support, industry-leading warranties and flexible financing. More information is available at www.CASEce.com. CASE Construction Equipment is a brand of CNH Industrial N.V. (NYSE: CNH) a world-class equipment, technology and services company. More information about CNH can be found online at www.cnh.com.

A PARTNERSHIP SET IN STONE: WAC McCANDLESS SUPPORTS EJC & SON LTD QUARRY SUCCESS

Hightown Quarry is a thriving business under father-and-son team, Eddie and Daniel Connolly at EJC & Son. The quarry, located at 59 Upper Hightown Road, Newtownabbey, focuses on the provision of high-quality quarry products that customers can depend on. EJC & Son’s name was already laced with expertise and respect from across the community when the new endeavour was taken on. Since 1993, EJC Contracts has been specialising in groundworks and civil engineering services, subsequently earning a stellar reputation for delivering high-quality services for both domestic and commercial projects across Northern Ireland.

Paul Marley, Manager at EJC & Son Quarry & Landfill, explained: “Since taking on the quarry, we have transformed it into one of the busiest quarries in the local area.”

The hard work and persistent drive have being paying off, with the quarry attaining a constant and diverse stream of customers and projects of all sizes, from large construction firms to individual private clients.

Paul continued: “The business has continued to grow since the acquisition, driven by significant investment and the commitment of Eddie and Daniel. Their vision and support, combined with the hard work of the entire team, have enabled the quarry to expand its operations, secure major new contracts and strengthen its position within the industry. The progress made over the past 18 months reflects the dedication of everyone involved, and we’re continuing to build on that momentum. We have also successfully incorporated EJC Grab Hire into the business, further enhancing the range of services we can offer our customers.”

DRIVING QUARRY SUCCESS WITH DEPENDABLE MACHINERY

With demanding production targets and a constant flow of material to extract, process and move, the quarry requires a fleet of robust and dependable equipment to keep operations running efficiently and reducing costly downtime. And that’s where WAC McCandless comes in.

“We now have everything in place in the quarry, from our excavators, crushers, stone crushers, dumpers

etc. – and we rely heavily on locallysourced people for them,” said Paul.

“We’ve worked with WAC McCandless for around 12 years and what I most genuinely appreciate is that they are 24/7. It’s about relationships, rather than business. We prefer personal one-to-one service and that’s guaranteed with WAC McCandless.”

One of Ireland’s fastest-growing dealerships, WAC McCandless is a powerful force in the industry, in which machinery, service and expertise come together to keep some of the country’s toughest projects moving forward. A pivotal factor in this progress is the company’s role as sole distributor of Komatsu construction equipment in Northern Ireland – a position which they have proudly held for 60-plus years. Since then, WAC McCandless has built a strong and enduring partnership with the manufacturer, steadily expanding their Komatsu representation throughout the years. The full range of Komatsu products provide a durability and reliability equipped with the aim of helping customers meet their business goals.

“We’re the second oldest Komatsu dealer in Europe, and there’s a lot of history and quality behind it. In all major quarries, Komatsu is at the face,” Mickey Quinn, Area Sales Manager at WAC McCandless, reflected.

“We have always received fantastic feedback from clients when it comes to Komatsu. There’s nothing to fault with the machinery.”

GAME-CHANGERS ON-SITE

There’s no better way to witness the true merits of the manufacturer’s capabilities than a practical demonstration of its value in action, and that’s exactly what

EJC & Son has done on their quarry through their adoption of a number of Komatsu’s equipment in their fleet.

One of the purchases in question has been the HM400 ADT, and despite only being a few weeks in with it, the machine has quickly proved its worth on-site, exceeding the team’s high expectations and leaving a lasting impression.

Paul commented: “We’ve only had it for a few weeks but already I can see a difference with the fuel efficiency. In any business, fuel efficiency is just as important as the machine’s capacity and power.”

With a powerful Komatsu EU Stage V engine, the advanced Komatsu Traction Control System, selectable working modes for on demand performance adjustments, a robust exterior, and state-of-the art solutions for its suspension and retarder, the HM400 has been the perfect choice for EJC & Son’s jobsite. Impressed by its performance, reliability, and ease of operation, the decision to invest in other

Komatsu machines has also been made with ease, including the Komatsu PC360 which, as the team have showcased since adding it to its operations, is quick, powerful and precise. Along with first-class Komatsu comfort, 3G communications and new safety features, the excavator provides a fast response and an exceptional work volume. The first-hand operating experience is also bolstered by the cab design. With the silent engine, coupled with the superb sound isolation, Komatsu excavators are as quiet to operate as the average family car.

In addition to the excavator, the team purchased the Komatsu WA475 from WAC McCandless, which has proven to be another top-tier operational asset.

The Komatsu WA475-11 builds upon the award-winning and popular WA47510 and adds new features and design refinements that take this workhorse to a new level of operational efficiency. The all-new Komatsu SpaceCab also features more comfort and visibility, making the models fantastic to operate.

“We’ve dealt with Komatsu with EJC Contracts for a long time and there has always been very good back-up along with the machines. Komatsu is a big player and does great quarry equipment. Overall, they are brilliant pieces of equipment. From operator comfort to vision, everything is there with them,” Paul continued.

Alongside Komatsu, WAC McCandless holds numerous other esteemed dealerships, including Dynapac, Atlas Copco, Xcentric, JLG, Epiroc, Ausa and Hinowa . Under the Epiroc umbrella, the company provide hydraulic attachments, including rockbreakers, concrete cutters, concrete busters, hydraulic pulverizers, magnets, sorting grabs, crusher buckets, hydraulic compactors, drum cutters and auger drive units.

EJC & Son has notably invested in the HB3600 rockbreaker in recent months, too.

The HB3600 features an Energy recovery system utilising the piston recoil energy to reduce vibration levels, the VibroSilenced Plus Concept further reducing noise and vibration levels, and the AutoControl

piston stroke length system which automatically adjusts during operation in order to optimise performance.

Paul said: “For 12 years we’ve been using the breakers across the utility fleet and there has never been an issue. If it didn’t work, we wouldn’t be back, but that’s 12 years of repeat business which says it all.”

AN ONGOING PARTNERSHIP

When speaking to the EJC & Son team, the praise is not restricted to the performance of the machinery line-up, but is directed to the support provided throughout the process by the WAC McCandless team.

This isn’t surprising given that for over 80 years, the company’s number one priority has been excellence in customer support, a priority which continues to this day with a dedicated team of factory-trained workshopbased and mobile support engineers.

“The purchase and turnout process is always quick and professional with WAC McCandless. There have been no setbacks along the way – if we asked for it, it was done. The team also go above and beyond to prevent downtime which is important for a business like our one. For example, I had a minor issue yesterday, picked up the phone to the service team, and within an hour it was resolved.”

The WAC McCandless team is likewise committed to maintaining their reputation for exceptional customer service: “We pride ourselves on our back-up, and being fast and timely, as we know how important that is for quarries. We’re always about to support our customers, and I speak to Daniel a lot to understand the needs of the quarry and how we can help.”

Elsewhere, WAC McCandless’ other business activities are positioning them for sustained growth and success, confirmed Mickey: “For us it’s about just keeping our heads down, supporting our customers and keeping the business growing.”

Komatsu construction range

Komatsu’s comprehensive range of construction machine includes a growing number of exceptional hybrid and intelligent machines. Customers worldwide benefit from leading technology to boost the efficiency of their fleet with Komatsu excavators and crawler dozers, which are among the most efficient, reliable and environmentally-friendly on the market today.

KING MECHANICAL SERVICES: KEEPING SAFETY SIMPLE AND TRUST STRONG

Fuelled by expertise, yet shaped by family roots and grounded in the small-business values of trust and honesty, King Mechanical Services (KMS) has grown from its beginnings in Tuam, Co. Galway into a nationwide provider serving customers of varying scale and size. Since 1998, the company has been delivering industry-leading plant machinery and lifting equipment inspections across Ireland, inspecting over 20,000 items per year, for over 1,000 clients, and along the way securing a loyal and burgeoning customer base. Meanwhile, KMS’s sister company and sales division, LiftingEquipment.ie – available online as well as via a physical store in Tuam – has been going from strength-to-strength as the industry’s go-to source for slings, tie down chains, shackles, chains custom-made in many sizes and grades, ratchet straps and more, all quality products which conform to the relevant standards. Being in this industry for so long, you can be assured that the team only sells the highest quality products from trusted, leading world-renowned brands.

However, against this backdrop of accelerated momentum, KMS has never veered from its personal approach, in which long-term relationships and trust are ingrained in the team’s ethos, just as much as technical expertise.

A STRESS-FREE PROCESS

In today’s fast-moving industries, clients are often stretched for time, balancing tight schedules, complex regulations and demanding site requirements. The process of sourcing, certifying and maintaining compliant

lifting and mechanical equipment can quickly become overwhelming, especially when every detail matters and there is little room for error. KMS’s hands-on approach seamlessly offers a solution, providing clarity where there is complexity and support where there is pressure. KMS can inspect and certify your plant machinery and lifting equipment with its highly-qualified GA1 testing engineers delivering GA1 testing and certification in accordance with the safety, health and welfare at work regulations.

By providing guidance and reassurance throughout every stage of the process, KMS tailors its services to clients’ needs, allowing them to focus on their own work with confidence, knowing that safety certification and reliability are being managed with care and precision.

At KMS communication is kept simple, personal and accessible. When queries or uncertainty may arise when navigating safety requirements, clients are always welcome to pick up the phone and speak directly with someone who understands their needs, ensuring a straightforward, no-fuss approach from the very first call. And for those passing through Tuam, the door is always open. Call in anytime for a face-to-face conversation and a more personal way of doing business, where advice is direct, support is genuine and relationships come first.

AHEAD OF THE CURVE

As the business has evolved, it has done so without sacrificing its personal touch. Since 2018, KMS has integrated the CoreRfid digital certification platform, strengthening how information is managed and shared across operations. CoreRfid ensures that all information is available online after the inspection and as the cert is generated automatically, no PDF certificates can

be tampered with, giving you peace of mind particularly for safety audits.

Customers have the reassurance that all of their certs are kept safely in one place online, as well as being easily accessible 24/7. To help you stay ahead, email notifications are received 30 days before certs expire, and the system automatically creates a Plant/Asset register for you, ideal for both small and large companies.

KMS’s latest step – introducing QR code access to GA1 certificates – continues that progression, bringing modern efficiency further into its family-driven ethos. With this new roll-out, GA1 certificates are available to access via a QR code attached to the lifting equipment or plant machinery directly. With just a simple scan, the essential certification data is made instantly available, keeping safety practical, accessible and firmly embedded in everyday working life.

heavy haulage & transport solutions

MOVING THE PLANT, MACHINERY AND INFRASTRUCTURE THAT KEEPS IRELAND WORKING

Before the first bucket of material is moved, before the first crane is erected and before a major infrastructure project can get underway, there is usually one crucial link in the chain: heavy haulage and transport solutions. Specialist transport providers are a vital industry asset for delivering the plant, machinery and oversized components that keep Ireland’s construction, quarrying, recycling and infrastructure sectors moving. From excavators and crushers to wind turbine components, bridge sections and large-scale industrial equipment, the companies are responsible for moving some of the largest and most challenging loads on the road network.

MOVING WITH THE TIMES

As investment continues across housing, transport, utilities and renewable energy, demand for specialist transport expertise is growing. Projects are becoming larger, equipment is becoming heavier and logistics are becoming more complex, placing increasing importance on careful planning, route management and regulatory compliance.

Technology continues to carve out a transformative impact on the sector. Advanced routeplanning software, GPS fleet tracking, telematics and digital load management systems are helping operators improve efficiency, enhance safety and provide customers with greater visibility throughout the transport process. Real-time data is allowing transport providers to optimise vehicle performance, reduce fuel consumption and respond more effectively to changing project requirements. Fleet investment is similarly shaping the industry. Companies are expanding and modernising their fleets with specialised low-loaders, extendable trailers and heavy-duty transport solutions capable of handling increasingly complex loads. As machinery manufacturers continue to develop larger and more sophisticated equipment, transport operators are adapting to meet changing demands.

OPPORTUNITIES AND PRIORITIES

Sustainability is also moving higher up the agenda. While heavy haulage remains energy-intensive by nature, operators are exploring ways

to reduce emissions through newer vehicles, alternative fuels, improved route planning and more efficient fleet management. The drive towards net zero construction is having a ripple effect throughout the supply chain, with transport providers playing an important role in supporting environmental objectives. At the same time, compliance and safety remain at the heart of the industry. Abnormal load movements require detailed co-ordination involving local authorities, infrastructure owners, escort services and transport specialists. With increasingly stringent regulations, expertise and experience have never been more valuable. The renewable energy sector is creating new opportunities for growth. Wind farms, battery storage facilities and major grid infrastructure projects frequently involve the transportation of oversized components that

require specialist equipment, detailed logistics planning and highly skilled operators. As Ireland continues its transition towards cleaner energy, heavy haulage firms are becoming critical partners in project delivery.

Labour availability remains a key challenge. Like many sectors within construction and transport, heavy haulage faces ongoing skills shortages, increasing the importance of training, workforce development and investment in the next generation of drivers, planners and logistics specialists. What remains unwavering is the sector’s importance. Every major project depends on the safe, efficient movement of machinery, materials and critical infrastructure components. Without heavy haulage and transport solutions, construction sites would stand still, quarries would be unable to operate and infrastructure projects would struggle to get off the ground.

DONNELL & ELLIS HEAVY HAULAGE: EXPERTISE THAT CARRIES THE INDUSTRY’S LOAD

In the world of haulage, experience and expertise are not only nonnegotiable considerations, but core qualities embodied by Donnell & Ellis Heavy Haulage Ltd which have long placed them as a strong partner for the industry.

More than 30 years in business have equipped the Donnell & Ellis team with an

understanding of the haulage sector and the challenges that come with it. In fact, throughout three decades on the road, they have faced everything from challenging delivery schedules and multifaceted route planning, to the unexpected issues that can arise during transport. Backed by their deep industry knowledge and adaptability, the company are confident

in their ability to tackle unforeseen obstacles head-on and deliver solutions that keep operations running smoothly.

FLEXIBLE SOLUTIONS FOR DESTINATIONS AND DELIVERY

With a far-reaching impact and multitude of options, Omagh-based Donnell & Ellis are a convenient industry collaborator, providing haulage services to destinations not only closer to home but further afield, having easy and frequent access throughout Europe to ports and a number of different locations. From collections and deliveries, the company ensure that any goods clients have for their business arrive safely and well on time to their destination of choice.

Being able to accommodate a wide range of load sizes offers crucial flexibility, allowing businesses to move goods efficiently while adapting to varying transportation requirements and schedules. Donnell & Ellis specialise in transporting loads of varying sizes, delivering reliable haulage services across every project.

heavy haulage & transport solutions

The broad spectrum of the company’s clientele spanning the years speaks volumes about this standard of service, from one-off provisions of support, to regular returning customers, such as Finlay, Sandvik in Ballygawley and Telestack in Omagh.

DRIVING EXCELLENCE IN HEAVY AND ABNORMAL LOAD TRANSPORT

A strong, well-maintained fleet forms the backbone of the company’s continued success. Donnell & Ellis have a fleet of heavy goods vehicles to take on all types of loads, from small goods to heavy items, all delivering a consistently dependable and specialist service.

The fleet features a steady number of 30 lorries with exceptional pulling ability, and

numerous flatbed trailers to fit all types of loads, low loaders for particularly heavy goods and step frames for easier access with a load capacity up to 100 tonnes.

The company’s heavy haulage capabilities frequently incorporate the task of transporting abnormal loads, carried out by a dedicated team of drivers, supported by escort drivers equipped with escort vehicles. When handling the abnormal loads, the drivers actively participate in loading and unloading operations, managing the necessary paperwork, planning the routes carefully and maintaining clear communication with escort drivers and the company’s operations team throughout the journey.

At the centre of these abnormal loads operations is collaboration, in which

the co-ordinated efforts help ensure a smooth transit and enable the team to respond effectively to any unexpected challenges during transportation. For businesses requiring heavy machinery transportation, knowledge and capacity are essential. Regardless of how big or abnormally-shaped clients’ machinery is, the company have the necessary vehicles to ensure that the goods are transported to wherever they are needed, on-time; from tracked and wheeled vehicles, boats and other heavy machinery, to construction machinery and vehicles, and plant machinery. All underscored with meticulous customer service and expert handling of every load, regardless of the size, shape or complexity, Donnell & Ellis ensure peace of mind from collection to destination.

THE FUTURE OF HEAVY HAULAGE – MAC 3 AXLE STEPFRAME LOW LOADER EU44

How trailer design is evolving to meet the demands of modern industry

For decades, McCauley Trailers has been committed to manufacturing high-quality, durable trailers for the construction, plant hire, and civil engineering sectors. Every build is engineered to deliver dependable performance in the toughest environments. The MAC 3 Axle Stepframe Low Loader EU44 is the perfect example of that commitment, combining robust engineering with the practical, smart features that today’s operators rely on every day. Engineered for the evolving demands of modern industry, the EU44 moves heavy machinery, oversized equipment, and specialized industrial loads with ease, ensuring operators transport vital assets safely and efficiently on every haul. We recently handed over a standout 3-Axle Step Frame Low Loader to John Dan O’Hare

of JD O’Hare Agricultural Contracting. In the ag sector, the right spec is vital, so John Dan customized this build to suit his business perfectly. Alongside our premium standard features, this trailer includes BPW axles, galvanised flip-toe ramps with hydraulic beaver supports, and an electric winch with a wireless remote. For maximum safety and visibility, the build integrates 16 eight-tonne recessed D-rings, LED

strobes, a hi-vis worklight kit, and a reverse camera, all rounded out with a wax-oiled underside for long-term protection. By working closely with operators like JD O’Hare to deliver these highly specialized, custom solutions, McCauley Trailers continues to shape the future of heavy haulage—ensuring reliability, safety, and efficiency for every journey ahead.

20 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Honouring the Past. Building the Future.

Twenty years ago, the Plant & Civil Engineer Awards were created to shine a light on excellence across plant, construction, quarry and recycling. Since then, the industry has evolved. Standards have risen. Expectations have grown. What has remained constant is the commitment to recognising those who step forward, lead responsibly and deliver real results. This 20-year milestone is about honouring the progress made while recognising the businesses shaping the next chapter. It is about performance that stands up to scrutiny and leadership that helps move the sector forward. If your business is building something that lasts, we encourage you to enter.

Quarrying Excellence

The Quarrying Excellence Award recognises a quarry operation that demonstrates outstanding standards across production, safety, environmental management and overall site performance.

This award celebrates operators who combine strong leadership with operational efficiency, responsible resource management and a commitment to best practice. It reflects the vital role the quarrying sector plays in supporting construction, infrastructure and materials supply across the island of Ireland.

The category is open to quarry operators of all sizes, with judging focused on quality of management and operational standards rather than scale of production.

Excellence in Customer Service

The Excellence in Customer Service Award recognises a business that consistently delivers high standards of service and builds strong, lasting client relationships.

This category celebrates organisations that demonstrate responsiveness, reliability and a genuine commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs. It honours businesses that go beyond expectations to provide a professional and dependable service experience.

NEW CATEGORY

Smart Site of the Year

AVAILABLE TO SPONSOR

The Smart Site of the Year Award recognises a construction, quarry or recycling site that has successfully integrated technology to improve efficiency, safety or operational performance.

This category celebrates the practical use of digital tools, automation, machine control systems, telematics, monitoring technology, data systems or smart processing solutions that enhance day-to-day site operations. The focus is on real-world application and measurable improvement, not simply the adoption of new technology.

Transitioning Towards Net Zero

The Transitioning Towards Net Zero Award recognises organisations that are actively reducing their carbon footprint and implementing structured plans to move towards net zero emissions.

This category celebrates businesses within the plant, construction, quarry and recycling sectors that are taking measurable steps to reduce emissions across operations, fleet, energy use or supply chains. It honours organisations demonstrating a clear strategy, tangible progress and longterm commitment to carbon reduction. The focus is on credible action and progress rather than complete net zero achievement.

Industry LegacyFamily Business

The Industry Legacy Award - Family Business recognises a family-owned business that has made a lasting contribution to the plant, construction, quarry or recycling sectors across the island of Ireland.

This award honours long-standing family enterprises that have demonstrated sustained excellence, strong leadership and a reputation built on trust, integrity and professionalism. It celebrates businesses where values, experience and commitment have been passed through generations, helping to shape and strengthen the industry over time. Judging will focus on longevity, industry impact and the enduring influence of the business within its sector and local community.

Waste Management & Environmental Excellence

The Waste Management & Environmental Excellence Award recognises organisations that demonstrate outstanding overall performance within the waste, recycling and resource management sectors.

This category celebrates companies that combine operational excellence, environmental responsibility and innovation in delivering waste management services. It honours organisations that show consistent commitment to reducing environmental impact, improving resource efficiency and maintaining high professional standards.

Specialist Contractor of the Year

The Specialist Contractor of the Year Award recognises a contractor delivering defined specialist services within the construction, quarry or recycling sectors.

This category is open to businesses whose core expertise lies in a specific discipline such as demolition, piling, concrete works, steel erection, mechanical or electrical installation, ground stabilisation, crushing and screening, materials processing or other specialist services.

The award celebrates technical excellence, high standards of delivery and a strong reputation for quality within a defined area of expertise.

Health & Safety

The Health & Safety Award recognises organisations that demonstrate strong leadership and commitment to protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of their workforce.

This category celebrates practical initiatives, effective safety management and a culture that prioritises safe working practices across plant, construction, quarry or recycling environments.

Civil Engineering Company of the Year

The Civil Engineering Company of the Year Award recognises excellence in the delivery of infrastructure and engineering projects across the construction, utilities, transport or public works sectors.

This category celebrates companies that demonstrate strong technical capability, effective project management and high standards of safety and professionalism. It honours businesses that consistently deliver quality outcomes while maintaining a reputation for reliability and engineering expertise.

R&D Innovation Award

The R&D Innovation Award recognises a product, system or solution introduced within the past 18 months that has delivered measurable impact across the plant, construction, civil engineering, quarry or recycling sectors.

This category celebrates practical innovation — whether machinery, equipment, technology or process improvement — that has improved efficiency, performance, safety or sustainability. The focus is on real-world results and industry impact.

Construction Project of the Year

AVAILABLE TO SPONSOR

The Construction Project of the Year Award recognises excellence in project delivery across the construction sector on the island of Ireland and the UK. Open to contractors, developers, architects and engineers, this category celebrates outstanding projects completed within the past 18 months that demonstrate quality, innovation and strong management.

Top Team of the Year

The Top Team of the Year Award recognises a team that has delivered exceptional results through strong collaboration, leadership and shared commitment.

This category celebrates teams within plant, construction, quarry, civil engineering or recycling businesses that have successfully delivered a project, initiative or operational improvement. It honours groups that demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving and measurable impact within their organisation.

Circular Economy

AVAILABLE TO SPONSOR

The Circular Economy Award recognises organisations that are actively reducing waste, improving resource efficiency and extending the lifecycle of materials within the plant, construction, quarry or recycling sectors.

This category celebrates practical initiatives that move beyond traditional take-make-dispose models. It honours businesses that demonstrate measurable progress in reuse, recycling, materials recovery or sustainable design and show a clear commitment to long-term resource efficiency.

Waste Management Team of the Year

The Waste Management Team of the Year Award recognises a team that has demonstrated outstanding performance in waste reduction, recycling and sustainable resource management.

This category celebrates teams that combine innovation, collaboration and practical action to improve environmental outcomes within their organisation or community. It honours groups who show leadership, measurable impact and a clear commitment to responsible waste management practices.

Fleet Excellence

AVAILABLE TO SPONSOR

The Fleet Excellence Award recognises outstanding management of operational vehicle fleets, including trucks, tippers, vans and support vehicles operating on public roads and site environments.

This category celebrates businesses that treat their fleet as a key part of operational performance, safety and professionalism. It honours companies that demonstrate strong management standards, reliability and a commitment to maintaining vehicles to a high standard.

Fleet size will not influence judging. Assessment is based on management quality, safety and operational effectiveness.

Plant Hire Company of the Year

The Plant Hire Company of the Year Award recognises excellence in the provision of plant and equipment hire across the construction, civil engineering, quarry or recycling sectors.

This category celebrates hire companies that demonstrate strong operational standards, well-managed fleets, a commitment to safety and reliable customer service. It honours businesses that combine quality equipment with professional delivery and a reputation for dependability within the industry.

Construction Company of the Year

The Construction Company of the Year Award recognises a contractor that has demonstrated outstanding overall performance, leadership and delivery across residential, commercial, civil or infrastructure projects.

This category celebrates companies that combine strong project execution, sound management, safety leadership and professional integrity. It honours organisations that consistently deliver quality outcomes while maintaining high standards in workforce development, operational performance and client relationships. Judging will focus on overall business excellence rather than the size or scale of projects delivered.

Environmental Initiative

The Environmental Initiative Award recognises a specific environmental project or initiative that has delivered tangible improvements beyond carbon reduction targets.

This category celebrates practical action that enhances environmental performance across the plant, construction, quarry or recycling sectors. This may include biodiversity enhancement, habitat restoration, water management, dust and noise control, land rehabilitation, waste reduction initiatives or community-led environmental projects.

Unlike broader sustainability or net zero strategies, this award focuses on defined initiatives with measurable environmental impact and clear outcomes. The award honours organisations demonstrating proactive environmental stewardship and a commitment to protecting and improving the natural environment within their operational footprint.

Rising Star of the Year

The Rising Star of the Year award recognises an emerging professional who is already making a meaningful contribution within the industry.

This category celebrates individuals with 10 years’ experience or less who demonstrate strong potential, dedication and a clear commitment to developing their skills and career. Whether working on site, in technical roles, operations, engineering or management, the award highlights those building a reputation for excellence early in their career.

HOW TO ENTER:

A minimum of two high res images that best depict your entry to be supplied. Supporting material can be supplied over and above.

Entries must be made by emailing a Word/PDF document stating the award category to: pceawards@4squaremedia.net

Separate award entries to be emailed for each category entered. Large files can be sent via WeTransfer - email to be sent to pceawards@4squaremedia.net to advise thereof.

Award Entry enquiries can be emailed to Golda at - pceawards@4squaremedia.net

JJ Sugrue Opens New Head Office with Hyundai Minis

Established plant hire and contracting business, JJ Sugrue, is the first customer to take two Hyundai mini excavators from recentlyappointed Hyundai compact dealer, Tobin Plant. The Suffolk company is no stranger to the Hyundai brand, with more than 40 of the machines in its extensive fleet of equipment. The latest additions are one of the first HX10A Z micro excavators in the UK and a 3.8-tonne HX35A Z. With a fleet of excavators from 1-25 tonnes, Sugrue has added more than 50 machines to its fleet over the last 12 months, in response to increased demand from customers in various industry sectors. The nearby Sizewell C power station project has naturally led to an increased workload, but the company is also seeing growth in other areas.

“We’re still busy with housing, while highways and water work are still good,” said Tim Sugrue, General Manager.

This continued expansion has led to the construction of extensive new purpose-built head office buildings, close to the A12 in Stratford St Andrew. Initially

an owner operator business, started by Jerry Sugrue in 2006, the company has grown to more than 200 machines and a staff in excess of 80 people.

The two new Hyundais will fulfil different roles within the fleet, with the larger HX35A Z proving a popular choice with housebuilding customers in particular. While a smaller 2.5tonne machine is towable behind a van or pick-up, the HX35AZ is a much more powerful proposition.

“The 3.5-tonne mini is a very good hire machine, there is a big difference in performance from the 2.5-tonne model,” said

Mr Sugrue. “It’s a much better machine for longer jobs.”

The HX35A Z is powered by an 18.5kW (25.2hp) Stage V diesel engine. A zero-tail swing design, the compact machine boasts a full-size ROPS/TOPS cab, with plenty of space for operators. Boom, arm and dozer blade safety valves are standard, along with two-way auxiliary hydraulics and a float function for the four-way blade.

The recently-launched HX10A Z also boasts a zero-tail design, with a retractable undercarriage permitting access through a 730mm doorway. This extends

to 1,110mm to provide stability when digging and lifting. Powered by a 7.6kW (10.35hp) diesel engine, the compact machine runs twin 10.4litre/min hydraulic pumps, to deliver class-leading bucket and arm breakout forces.

“It is more of a weekend machine, but we will also use the HX10A Z on our jobs, particularly where access is important,” said Mr Sugrue. “We have had to lift the machine into jobs to gain access.”

The company has worked with Tobin Plant in the past and was pleased to see the collaboration between business owner Simon Tobin and Hyundai develop.

“It’s really good to see Simon getting the Hyundai compact equipment dealership,” said Mr Sugrue. “We’ve known him for a long time and we can be sure that we will get the back-up that we need.”

“I’m delighted to be able to reconnect with a leading plant company like Sugrue,” said Simon Tobin.

“We are introducing a much stronger Hyundai brand to plant businesses and contractors throughout East Anglia, with a full line of compact excavators and a growing range of compact construction equipment. We have increasing stock and extensive back-up available throughout our territory and companies like Sugrue can be assured that one call and we will get the job done.”

New 15-Tonnes of Power for Takeuchi

Takeuchi showcased at Hillhead the latest 3-Series machines including 15-tonne TB3150 offset and TB3150R fixed boom excavators. These new powerful machines deliver 3-Series styling with increased horsepower.

The new 15-tonne models reflect a focus on larger models by Takeuchi and offer of two distinct operating types – fixed or offset boom providing versatility on-site. While both models share the same platform, their designs reflect two different approaches to excavator operation. The TB3150 features a boom swing system that allows operators to dig offset without repositioning the machine, making it well suited for utility work and applications that require precise positioning. In contrast, the TB3150R has a reduced tail swing design and a reinforced fixed boom configuration, minimising rear overhang and allowing operators to work more confidently in confined areas or near structures.

The TB3150R is available with an optional 2-piece boom, providing added flexibility for lifting and working at varying distances from the machine. The 3150 with offset boom provides a system that digs at offset without

having to reposition the tracks. Ideal in tight spaces and applications that need precise positioning

Both models incorporate Takeuchi’s latest 3-Series enhancements, including significantly increased hydraulic horsepower for improved performance during demanding, multi-function operations.

A new Yanmar engine rated at 85 kW (114 hp) delivers the power required for a wide range of applications.

Inside, operators benefit from a redesigned cab focused on comfort and ease of use. Features include automatic climate control, heated air suspension seat and keyless start with pin-code and RFID for added site security. Its 8-inch touch screen display, 270-degree camera views, intuitive jog dial and multi-switch control panel allow convenient access to common machine functions. Pilot-operated joystick controls along with electro-hydraulic (EH) controls for functions such as travel, dozer blade and boom swing.

plant hire

PLANT HIRE: THE INDUSTRY BEHIND THE INDUSTRY

Take a closer look at almost any major project and you’ll find plant hire working in the background, keeping everything moving.

From breaking ground on new housing developments to building roads, installing renewable energy infrastructure and supporting quarrying operations, plant hire remains one of the construction industry’s most critical moving parts. It’s not just about supplying machinery; it’s about delivering solutions.

EVOLVING EXPECTATIONS

Construction sites are becoming smarter, and so are the fleets that support them. Machines can now report their own performance, flag maintenance issues before they become problems and provide real-time data that helps contractors make

better decisions. What was once reactive is becoming increasingly proactive, helping projects stay on-track and on budget.

At the same time, the industry’s priorities are changing.

Sustainability is moving from ambition to expectation, with electric equipment, cleaner engines and alternative fuels becoming a much more familiar part of the conversation.

Contractors are looking for ways to reduce emissions without sacrificing productivity and many hire companies are responding with fleets built for the future.

Elsewhere, we’re seeing a demand for specialist, highperformance equipment to support more complex construction projects. As infrastructure becomes more technically demanding, such as rail upgrades, offshore energy works and urban regeneration,

contractors increasingly need machines designed for precision, compact access and enhanced safety features. This is driving hire companies to diversify their fleets with niche attachments, hybrid machines and purposebuilt units that can handle specific site constraints.

There’s also a growing expectation for simplicity. Busy sites don’t just need excavators and dumpers; they also require power, lighting, welfare facilities, accommodation and security.

Increasingly, plant hire providers are becoming one-stop shops, giving customers everything they need from a single trusted source.

RELIABILITY STILL MATTERS MOST

While technology and sustainability continue to grab attention, the fundamentals remain the same. Reliability

matters. Service matters. Having the right equipment in the right place at the right time can still be the difference between a project running smoothly and one falling behind schedule.

As investment continues across infrastructure, housing and renewable energy, the role of plant hire is only becoming more important. The sector is adapting, innovating and expanding to meet the challenges of a changing construction landscape.

Because while cranes, excavators and telehandlers may be the visible tools on site, it’s the expertise, planning and support behind them that really keep the wheels turning.

The plant hire’s influence stretches beyond supporting the industry; it plays a fundamental role in shaping where it goes next.

HOW BANN HIRE & SALES MASTERED THE MARKET AND CAPTURED INDUSTRY GOLD

Bann Hire & Sales has officially secured the prestigious Plant Hire Company of the Year Award at the 2025 Plant & Civil Engineer Awards. This ultimate industry accolade recognises the immense dedication and relentless hard work injected by every single member of the team. But behind this triumph lies a masterclass in corporate survival, strategic agility, and a willingness to constantly tear up the old playbook to rewrite the future.

THE INTEREST RATE PIVOT: LEAVING THE HOUSING SECTOR

For years, the steady hum of domestic house building was a primary driver of the regional hire sector. However, when global financial markets experienced intense turbulence and interest rates spiked, the residential construction pipeline ground to a sudden slowdown. While many competitors waited for the storm to pass, the leadership team at Bann Hire & Sales executed a rapid business model tweak. Recognising that economic macro-trends were dictating a change in demand, they intentionally shifted focus away from residential developments.

CONQUERING COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL SECTORS

Bann Hire & Sales actively pivoted toward high-yield, resilient sectors:

• Commercial Building: Supplying largescale construction projects, infrastructure builds, and major corporate developments

• Industrial & Factory Sector: Embedding their fleet into the daily operations of factories, processing plants, and logistics hubs

By restructuring their customer base to serve these industrial clients, the business insulated itself from the housing slump. This created highly predictable, recurring revenue streams.

DISRUPTING LOGISTICS: CONTRACT HIRE AND OWN-BRAND FORKLIFTS

True industry leaders do not just adapt to markets; they actively disrupt them. The major drivers of Bann Hire & Sales’ recent explosive growth include:

THE DOUBLE ENGINE GROWTH:

CONTRACT HIRE GROWTH

Lock in long term predictability for heavy industrial, factory and commercial site operators.

PROPRIETARY FORKLIFT LINE

Engineered to bypass reliance on third party supply chains who ultimately control the contract hire sector of the business.

plant hire

BANN HIRE & SALES AT A GLANCE

Core Milestone: Plant Hire Company of the Year

Strategic Pivot: From Residential Housing to Commercial and Industrial

Game-Changing Launch: Ireland’s New Own-Brand Forklift Line

Growth Engine: Long-Term Contract Hire Model

BREAKING THE MONOPOLY: HOW BANN HIRE & SALES TOOK ON THE BIG-BRAND FORKLIFT CARTEL

For decades, the lucrative contract hire sector across Ireland’s logistics, factory, and industrial landscapes has been dominated by a select group of global manufacturing giants. Operating through tightly controlled dealership networks, these “big brands” dictated the terms, controlled the pricing, and effectively held the market hostage.

By designing, manufacturing, and launching their very own proprietary brand of forklift truck, Bann Hire & Sales has completely disrupted this status quo. They didn’t just add a new machine to their fleet – they completely dismantled the traditional supply model to give Irish businesses a powerful alternative.

The roll-out of their long-term Contract Hire model gives commercial partners premium equipment without massive upfront capital expenditures.

Even more impactful is the development of their own-brand forklift line. Specifically engineered to meet the gruelling demands of the Irish industrial sector, this proprietary equipment line is poised to shake up the

entire forklift hire landscape across Ireland. By introducing an in-house brand, they bypass third-party supply chain bottlenecks, giving customers unmatched value, reliability,

and modern engineering. Top-end highly spec’d forklifts for the same money as the budget entry level from the big suppliers.

DRIVEN BY TEAMWORK

Winning Plant Hire Company of the Year is proof that strategic pivots only work when your team executes them flawlessly. Every driver, mechanic, customer service agent, and director pulled in the same direction to make this transition a success.

Bann Hire & Sales has proven that economic shifts are not a threat if you have the vision to adapt. With a booming commercial division and a disruptive new forklift brand entering the market, Ireland’s top plant hire company is just getting started.

plant hire

Blackwood Plant Hire First in UK to Adopt Trimble Dozer Steering Technology

Blackwood Plant Hire has become the first contractor in the UK to deploy a dozer fleet equipped with Trimble® Earthworks Horizontal Steering Control technology, supplied and supported by SITECH UK & Ireland.

The automated steering system allows the dozer to follow 3D design alignments automatically during grading operations, improving pass consistency, reducing overlap and allowing operators to focus on blade control and site surroundings.

The technology has been introduced as part of Blackwood Plant Hire’s continued investment in machine control and digital construction technologies, with the company working closely with SITECH to commission the systems and provide operator training and support.

While 3D machine control is increasingly used across earthmoving operations, steering accuracy and pass consistency can still depend heavily on operator experience.

Trimble Earthworks Horizontal Steering Control automatically guides the machine along the design alignment using GNSS positioning, onboard sensors and the project’s 3D model.

This helps reduce unnecessary overlap and rework and helps operators of all skill-levels and experience achieve more consistent grading. The system reduces fatigue on longer grading runs by freeing up the operator from manual steering alignment, allowing them to focus on blade performance and their surroundings.

Paul McCormack, Managing Director at Blackwood Plant Hire Ltd, said: “We’re always looking at practical ways to improve consistency and productivity across the fleet, and this was a technology we felt could make a genuine difference on site.

“Being the first company in the UK to introduce Horizontal Steering Control was an important step for us because we can already see the potential it has to support operators, reduce overlap and improve grading performance on site.

“The technology is straightforward to use and the support from SITECH throughout installation and training has been excellent. It’s another example of how machine control technology is continuing to evolve to make operations more productive and repeatable.”

Blackwood Plant Hire operates two northern depots in Inverness

and Aberdeen, along with a fleet of over 500 machines –80 of which are GPS enabled, including 14 tonne to 50 tonne tracked excavators, 15-22m long reachers and dozers.

Liam Payne, Technical Sales Consultant at SITECH UK & Ireland, said: “This is an important deployment because it marks the first use of Horizontal Steering Control technology on UK dozers and demonstrates how machine control systems are continuing to evolve.

“The system helps contractors improve grading consistency while supporting operators

by automating steering alignment to the 3D design.

“We’ve worked closely with Blackwood Plant Hire throughout installation, commissioning and training to help ensure the team gets the maximum benefit from the technology.”

The deployment forms part of a long-standing relationship between Blackwood Plant Hire and SITECH UK & Ireland, with the companies having worked together on machine control technology and support for the past five years.

CP Hire Plant & Tool Hire Northern Ireland specialises in plant, tool, powered access and site cabin hire. Established in 1971 and with seven depots throughout Northern Ireland, our experienced team are on hand to help and advise on the most suitable equipment rental for your project.

POWER, PERFORMANCE AND PARTNERSHIP WITH CP HIRE

At the heart of construction, quarrying and recycling, plant hire is embedded in the progress powering the industry every day. And CP Hire has been a trusted collaborator most definitely making its vibrant mark on the construction, civil engineering and utilities sectors since 1971.

From seven depots across Northern Ireland, CP Hire proudly aligns itself with high-quality equipment backed by a strong presence, featuring excavators, telehandlers, dumpers, rollers, welfare units and a wide range of attachments. The premium brands associated with the company reflect a shared commitment to quality and

excellence, such as Stihl and DeWalt on the small tools and Bomag, Hitachi, Komatsu, Kubota, Terex and JCB on the plant.

EVOLVING SOLUTIONS FOR A CHANGING INDUSTRY

Since its origin, CP Hire has been successfully delivering reliable hire solutions to support the industry, but as the sector’s demands continue to evolve, the team has recognised the necessity of adapting its offering while upholding the high standards for which it is known.

The company’s ever-expanding fleet reflects this commitment, in that in addition to continuing its significant investment into access equipment – recently taking on new

batches of SINOBOOM, JLG and Manitou – CP Hire has incorporated new additions to equip customers with even more choice on-site.

CP Hire Managing Director, Andrew Hutchinson, explained: “We have been growing our toilet fleet and are completely blown away by how the business has grown. We have clients for them right across the board – from your single toilet on-site right through to events requiring 50-to-60 toilets.

“This has also lent itself to big growth in our welfare business because they need serviced. We have a great system in place that whenever guys get their service done, we’re able to forward on digital photographs and proof of service

which helps with customer relations as they know that the job is done right.”

As ever, efficiency is a running thread for the sector, and Andrew knows it, dedicated to fulfilling the industry’s needs with the right equipment, including recently, the Husqvarna PG 5 floor grinder and the Husqvarna BMS 220 floor scraper. Built for demanding floor preparation, these machines make quick work of grinding concrete and removing tough floor coverings.

“Since people have learned that we have the machines, they’ve been booked up. A guy who has used it told us that it would have taken 10 men a day to do what one man does with the machine.”

Other notable additions for CP Hire in supporting the industry’s workforce are 10 brand new Thwaites 3T Hydrostatic Power Swivel dumpers, the new Bomag 1700 self-propelled roller, a new batch of Winget 10/7 and 5/3 mixers, the new Avant compact loader models 755 and 635, as well as two electric JCB diggers, and more.

SUPPORT YOU CAN RELY ON

CP Hire has an excellent team of valued employees who are highly trained and committed to delivering on the company’s promise, with staff loyalty being a cornerstone of the business. But what stands out is also the company’s passion for harnessing the younger generation through its operations.

Andrew commented: “We have a great steady workforce and a few years back ran an apprentice scheme to give the youth a chance. If you don’t give them a chance, you can’t complain when you don’t get the workers. You have to keep continually adding apprentices and young people in and guiding them to where they want to go and are best suited.”

And when speaking to his team, Andrew is always receptive and excited about their ideas, genuinely willing to take their feedback on-board and translate them into action.

“I get a kick now when the team bring ideas to me and I back them and can see other avenues of hire taking off. There’s no one person who runs a hire company, it’s about the people around you. You have to trust your staff and back them – you can’t get complacent and take anybody for granted.”

RAPID AND RESPONSIVE

Backed by the wellequipped team, CP Hire’s service model is designed to provide reassurance and reliability, ensuring that customers can maintain continuity in their operations with minimal interruption.

Andrew said: “We always bang the drum for a one-hour breakdown time – it really is vital to have rapid response. Also, with our different coverage across the province, we have a lot of facilities management companies that if they have one day to do a job, they must have the machine there at 8am and away again at 4pm. With our depot coverage and spread,

we’re able to offer that service. A machine doesn’t have to sit waiting for collection.”

Customers appreciate the assurance, too, that the team will always go the extra mile for them.

“One of our biggest new customers this year came to us and asked for 10 19ft electric scissor lifts. We bought them 10 brand new machines and off the back of that, it turned into a massive account for us because they couldn’t believe we would go to that effort for them and buy them brand new machinery.”

plant hire

RMP HIRE IS SUPPORTING PROJECT SUCCESS AT EVERY STAGE

In just a few years, RMP Hire has transformed from a start-up into a dynamic, trusted and prominent player in the equipment and access hire industry, achieving tremendous growth and success along the way. When projects are working to tight deadlines, access to the right equipment can be crucial. RMP Hire supports customers with reliable hire services, quality equipment and dependable communication to help keep work on track and moving forward.

MEETING DEMAND WITH A MODERN FLEET

Starting out with just its founder, Ray Vaughan, and a small fleet, the company’s journey has been one of significant strategic expansion.

Ray said: “There are nine of us in the team now. One or two more will probably come on-board before the end of the year, we’ll then reassess this time next year to see where we’re at.

“At RMP Hire we have a desire to keep growing. The company originally started with just me for the first six months and two pieces of access equipment and three diggers. Now we’ve got about 400 pieces of access plant and 25 diggers.”

Today, RMP Hire’s impressive fleet includes a Scania Low Loader, 32-tonne beavertail truck, purpose designed mechanics vehicles and a wide range of powered access equipment from small lifts to 105-ft booms, numerous excavators, electric booms, tracked dumpers, telehandlers, mini loaders, and a comprehensive selection of Hilti power tools, DIY tools, and landscaping equipment. The wide range of options is cultivated to fulfil the needs of RMP Hire’s firm and

flourishing customer base from across the building and construction industry. Its customers include builders, landscapers, tradespeople and homeowners, supporting both residential and commercial projects.

The fleet in question is modern and continually refreshed, ensuring customers have access to reliable, efficient machinery for projects of every scale.

“95 per cent of the fleet is under 18 months old. Recently, we’ve gone into the AlmaCrawler specialised range so we have the tracked scissor lifts and the tracked booms. We have the AlmaCrawler spider booms, lithium and diesel, too. We’ve also gone into really big equipment and carry four 105ft Zoomlion booms, and two 22m Magni diesel scissor lifts, which I think there are only four of in the country.”

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

Ray emphasised that the company’s success, however, can not solely be attributed to the quality of the equipment, but to the strength of the team he has hired.

“The staff that we’ve brought on-board are all from the industry. Everyone who joined us, from the sales to the mechanics to the driver, are all experts. We have probably 95 years combined experience in the hire industry.”

Led by Ray’s example, the staff surrounding him similarly boast the core values of service, safety, honesty, loyalty, and customer satisfaction.

“Customer service is what we have built the company’s foundations on. It’s one of the key reasons why we’ve won a lot of business, because we try to do what others won’t. We’re always willing to take the call regardless of the day or time. Recently, we received a call at 6pm on a Monday night that something was needed for 5am the following morning, and we made sure that it was delivered,” Ray explained.

MOMENTUM IN MOTION

From solid foundations to continued expansion, RMP Hire remains focused on driving progress and delivering for its customers.

“We are going to our purpose-built premises in October which is Dublin-

based, as well as a southside location opening imminently,” Ray continued.

“It’s about always achieving the synergy between ourselves, the customers and Wogan Build Centre Group, our parent company. We complement eachother and are very fortunate to have the right

machines, the right staff and the right customers to continue to grow.”

“Since Wogan Build Centre came on board we have adopted their corporate structure and aligned with their growth strategy. It is all very exciting and we look forward to many more years of expansion together.”

stonecrushers' ball

STONECRUSHERS’ BALL RETURNS FOR 2026

Mark your calendars – one of the industry’s most anticipated events is set to return this autumn as the Institute of Quarrying (NI Branch) has announced that the 2026 Stonecrushers’ Ball will be taking place on Friday 9th October at the Europa Hotel, Belfast.

As a leading professional body for individuals working within the quarrying and mineral products sector, the Institute of Quarrying is committed to promoting excellence, professionalism, education and best practice. Through technical events, networking opportunities and charitable initiatives, the NI Branch continues to bring together professionals from across the industry while supporting causes that make a positive difference within local communities.

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

A firm favourite among industry professionals, the annual Stonecrushers’ Ball has become one of the highlights of the sector’s social calendar, providing a unique opportunity

for professionals, suppliers, clients and friends of the industry to come together for an evening of celebration, networking and charitable giving.

Following the tremendous success of last year’s event, which raised an impressive £10,000 for NI Hospice and Lighthouse Charity, the 2026 ball promises another memorable evening in support of a worthy cause. This year, the Chairman’s chosen charity is Cancer Focus, an organisation dedicated to supporting local people and families affected

by cancer through prevention, care and support services.

Guests will be welcomed by the acclaimed Arco String Quartet, whose elegant performance will provide the perfect backdrop to the reception and continue throughout the meal. The evening will feature a Chairman’s address, fundraising activities in aid of Cancer Focus, and the opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends from across the sector.

As the formal proceedings conclude, popular live band The Untouchables will take to the stage, ensuring guests

enjoy a lively evening of entertainment and dancing.

The Stonecrushers’ Ball has become synonymous with friendship, industry pride and generosity. Year after year, attendees and sponsors have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to supporting worthwhile causes while celebrating the achievements of an industry that plays a vital role in Northern Ireland’s economy and infrastructure.

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

With strong demand expected once again, early booking is recommended. Come along to the Europa Hotel on 9th October for an evening of exceptional hospitality, outstanding entertainment and fundraising in support of Cancer Focus. Tickets are now available by emailing mgreer1@ northstone-ni.com.

The Institute of Quarrying (NI Branch) looks forward to welcoming guests to what promises to be another memorable and successful Stonecrushers’ Ball.

• The Arco String Quartet will provide the welcome reception and play during the meal

• The evening entertainment will be provided by The Untouchables

• The Chairman’s chosen charity this year is Cancer Focus

A FRONT-ROW SEAT AT JCB’S HEADQUARTERS: CELEBRATING HERITAGE AND LATEST LAUNCHES

BY SARAH NELSON

There are some email notifications that ping on your phone and instantly ignite a jolt of excitement from a simple glance at the subject line. For me, receiving an invitation to attend the recent JCB press event at the official headquarters certainly achieved just that; sparking an anticipatory internal countdown ticking before I had even tapped my grateful email response to the team.

Like any of us possessing passion for construction machinery and the engineering behind it, the opportunity to spend two days at the JCB Headquarters is simply unmissable. Since my childhood, the JCB brand has been a persistent, prominent presence, with the famous yellow machines being recognised all over the world as a major emblem of both modern construction and longevity. As a

result, travelling to Staffordshire for the start of the event, I knew I was heading to one of the cornerstones of the industry.

When the morning of my visit arrived, I was transported to the grand surroundings of my accommodation for the night, St George’s Park’s

Hilton Hotel. After settling in, my fellow guests and I were taken to JCB’s Headquarters for product presentations, exciting unveilings and exceptional dining. From the moment we arrived on site, the scale of the operation was impossible to ignore. Vast facilities, immaculate

representations of JCB’s historical journey and a level of organisation that reflected the stature of one of the world’s leading construction equipment manufacturers. What immediately stood out throughout the event was the enthusiasm and pride of the people behind the brand; an unmistakable passion for the future direction of the industry infused every word spoken.

The trip as a whole, which also encompassed a trip to the Heavy Products Factory, showcased numerous new exciting JCB machines, which we found out more about from the product specialists during our quarry visit.

AN EXPANDING PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

One of the standout launches was the new JCB 715 Articulated Dump Truck – a 9.3-tonne, twoaxle truck that takes off-road hauling capabilities to a new level.

The 715 is a two-axle machine that will provide the perfect hauling partner for many of the company’s wheeled and crawler excavating and loading machines. Equally significant was the launch of the new 3CX Hydrogen Backhoe Loader, a machine that felt like a glimpse into the future of construction equipment.

The 3CX Hydrogen is powered by a 55kW version of JCB’s hydrogen engine. The machine has three composite-wrapped hydrogen tanks, mounted on the cab roof, providing enough storge at 350 bar pressure for all-day operation. Other than the hydrogen storage tanks and fuel distribution lines, the machine will feel familiar to backhoe loader customers across the world.

The visit additionally showcased the launch of the 420X crawler excavator, a high performance 40-tonne class machine that is primarily aimed at aggregate production, contract crushing, demolition, earthmoving and quarrying customers. Drawing gasps of ethusiasm, the new range-topping 50-tonne class 520X was also revealed. The machine has an operating weight of 52-57 tonnes, depending on build specification. It can be configured with a standard 6.9 metre (m) boom for maximum versatility, or a 6.5 m mass excavation boom for customers focused on the highest output. Genuinely impressive, the scale, performance and sheer presence

of the excavators demonstrate just how competitive JCB has become within the heavy quarrying, demolition and earthmoving sectors.

Alongside the excavators, JCB unveiled two smaller single drum soil compactors, the VM58D and the VM78D. These models compete in the 4-8 tonne class and are offered with EU Stage V diesel engines, delivering low exhaust emissions, high efficiency and improved compaction performance, reinforcing just how much the industry is evolving.

Another machine that drew plenty of attention was the new 3CX Sitemaster Backhoe Loader. Positioned as an affordable and accessible machine for

start-up businesses and owner operators, it felt like a clever nod to JCB’s heritage, recognising the role backhoe loaders have played in helping generations of contractors build their businesses from the ground up.

A NEW SPEED RECORD

One of the standout moments of my trip was most definitely having the privilege to be present for JCB’s announcement of its attempt to set a new land speed record with a 32-foot car powered by its own hydrogen engines. In August 2006, the JCB Dieselmax, piloted by Wing Commander Andy Green OBE, achieved a world diesel land

speed record of 350.092 mph. This August, Green will once again take the wheel, this time of the hydrogen-powered JCB Hydromax. The project is led by JCB and is supported by Prodrive and Ricardo. During a special Q&A segment, Lord Bamford, George Bamford and Andy Green OBE spoke on the remarkable return to Bonneville Salt Flats for the annual SpeedWeek, ahead of the opening of its new $500million, one million sq. ft, 400-acre factory in San Antonio, Texas.

While the JCB machines were undoubtedly the stars of the show, the atmosphere throughout the event was what really made the experience memorable. It was a chance to see behind the curtain of one of the industry’s most recognisable names and experience firsthand both the history and progression of the brand, and how these successfully fuse.

Thank you to the entire JCB team for the invitation, hospitality and professionalism throughout the visit. From the transport arrangements and accommodation to the demonstrations and presentations themselves, everything was exceptionally well-organised and enlightening. Leaving the JCB Headquarters at the end of the event, one thing felt very clear: this is a company not standing still.

recycling & waste management

Enva Becomes First Recycled APCr Aggregate

Enva, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading environmental services and resource recovery businesses, has become the first producer in Scotland of a lightweight aggregate derived from recycled Air Pollution Control residue (APCr) ash to achieve BSI certification to BS EN 13055-1:2002/AC:2004 for use in concrete, mortar and grout applications.

The milestone confirms the product meets recognised industry standards for quality, grading and performance consistency, creating a new certified route for the beneficial use of APCr ash within the construction sector.

Produced at Enva’s Paisley facility, the innovative aggregate represents a significant step forward for both the construction and resource recovery sectors, creating a new route for the beneficial use of APCr ash while providing customers with a sustainable alternative to conventional aggregates.

The aggregate is produced through Enva’s APCr conditioning process, which transforms a challenging waste stream into a valuable construction material.

Recognised under an End of Waste agreement with SEPA, the process produces a certified aggregate that can be used as a substitute for virgin materials.

The Paisley facility is capable of treating up to 20,000 tonnes of APCr and fly ash

residues each year, transforming a material previously destined for hazardous landfill into a valuable construction resource. Every tonne of recycled aggregate produced helps reduce demand for virgin quarried materials while supporting the construction sector’s transition towards a more circular economy.

In addition to meeting rigorous quality standards, the aggregate delivers substantial environmental and commercial benefits.

An independently conducted Life Cycle Assessment found that the product has a carbon footprint of just 0.61 kg CO2e per tonne following End of Waste status. This compares favourably with conventional aggregates, which typically carry a footprint of around 5 kg CO2e per tonne, representing an 87.8% reduction in carbon emissions. The lightweight aggregate also provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete sands and aggregates while helping customers reduce the embodied carbon of concrete blends.

The product is already being used by customers in the manufacture of precast concrete products including concrete blocks and drainage rings, as well as within blended concrete mixes for slabs and flooring applications.

James Marsden – Managing Director Specialist GB, at Enva, said: “Achieving BSI

certification to BS EN 13055 is a landmark achievement not only for Enva but for the wider construction and resource recovery sectors. It demonstrates that materials recovered from challenging waste streams can meet the highest industry standards while delivering significant environmental and commercial benefits.

“By transforming APCr ash into a certified construction product, we are helping customers reduce both material costs and carbon emissions, while supporting the transition to a more circular economy.”

Enva is now targeting wider adoption across the concrete manufacturing sector, working with medium and large-volume users while welcoming opportunities with organisations of all sizes seeking to improve sustainability performance and reduce reliance on virgin materials.

The certification reinforces Enva’s commitment to developing innovative recycling solutions that divert hazardous waste from disposal, recover valuable resources and support the UK’s net zero ambitions. Through its Paisley facility, Enva is helping transform a challenging waste stream into a certified construction product that reduces reliance on virgin aggregates and lowers the environmental impact of construction projects.

recycling & waste management

KEEPING IRELAND MOVING: LOOKING AHEAD AFTER A REMARKABLE EXHIBITION SEASON

The spring and early summer months have been incredibly busy but deeply rewarding for all of us at Quarry & Recycling Solutions (QRS). Our team has travelled far and wide, from checking out the latest global environmental technologies at the IFAT show in Germany, to exhibiting closer to home at the Balmoral Show and the ICE Expo in Punchestown. Most recently, we wrapped up a fantastic trip over to the Hillhead show, which is always a standout event for our industry.

More than anything, it was great to meet everyone face-to-face across all these events. Many of the people we caught up with are customers and industry friends we speak to regularly via email or phone, so having the chance

to sit down, have a proper chat, and discuss both current and future business was invaluable.

The fantastic feedback we received from our visitors is a great reminder of why we

do what we do. Now that the busy exhibition circuit is behind us, we are getting our feet firmly back on the ground and shifting our full focus to the rest of the year ahead.

We have plenty of good work in front of us. Moving into the second half of the year, our priority is supporting our customers and providing reliable, high-quality backup for Terex Ecotec, Terex MPS and McCloskey machinery across Ireland. By delivering steady preventative maintenance and reactive support, our aftermarket team is dedicated to keeping Ireland’s crushing, screening, recycling and demolition sectors moving smoothly. If you didn’t get a chance to catch up with us at the shows but want to discuss your machinery, spare parts, or servicing needs for the months ahead, please feel free to drop us a line at info@qrs.ie – we’re always here to help.

TC CONE

The TC Series delivers heavy-duty crushing in a compact, low-profile design. It features automatic hydraulic controls for easy adjustments and instant overload protection. Maintenance is fast via top-access wear parts, while the balanced design and advanced bearings ensure high output, low vibration, and maximum reliability for demanding mobile applications.

TBG 530

The TBG 530T is a high-speed, trackmounted shredder ideal for wood and green waste. It features a rapid, tool-free setup and an intelligent feed system for maximum output. With easy maintenance access, a 493HP engine, and a protective kickback system, it ensures efficient, consistent, and reliable performance.

SALES - SPARES - SERVICE

S190

The S190 Triple Deck is a class-leading, high-energy portable screener designed for maximum productivity. It features a massive 6100mm x 1524mm screening area, adjustable box angles for versatility, and a fast 15-minute setup. The Dual Power option reduces costs and emissions, making it the top choice for high-quality aggregate screening.

recycling & waste management

Private Sector Investment in Circular Infrastructure at Walshestown Facility

Enva welcomed Alan Dillon, Irish Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment with responsibility for the Circular Economy, to its Walshestown Resource Recovery Facility. The company showcased how private sector investment is already delivering the infrastructure needed to support Ireland’s housing, climate and resource ambitions.

Located in Co. Kildare, the facility represents one of the most advanced construction and demolition (C&D) waste recovery operations in Ireland. Designed to recover high-quality recycled sand, soil and aggregate products, Walshestown demonstrates how waste can be transformed into valuable secondary materials, reducing reliance on virgin resources and lowering the carbon footprint of construction and infrastructure projects.

With over €100 billion in planned infrastructure investment and a target to deliver 300,000 homes by 2030, Ireland faces growing demand for materials while construction continues to be its largest waste stream. Meeting these challenges

requires domestic circular infrastructure at scale.

Developed in partnership with CDE and backed by I Squared Capital, a leading infrastructure investor in Enva, the 180 tonnesper-hour wet-processing facility demonstrates how private sector investment, enabled by clear policy and regulation, is already delivering the infrastructure required to support Ireland’s circular transition.

Operating under EPA licensing and End-of-Waste frameworks, the facility processes up to 330,000 tonnes per annum and recovers around 70% of incoming

material into reusable aggregates, reducing landfill dependency and supporting a more resourceefficient construction sector.

Walshestown provides a clear example of how circular solutions are being delivered in practice, supported by stable regulatory frameworks that enable long-term investment in environmental infrastructure.

Roger McDermott, Chief Executive Officer, Enva, said: “Walshestown demonstrates how Ireland can translate circular economy policy into real, functioning infrastructure that supports housing delivery and

climate objectives. By recovering high-quality materials from construction and demolition waste, we are helping to reduce reliance on finite resources while supporting our customers in lowering their environmental impact and advancing their decarbonisation programmes.

“To fully realise this potential, it is essential that regulatory pathways remain clear and consistent, End-of-Waste approvals are progressed efficiently, and public procurement continues to support the adoption of recycled materials across infrastructure delivery.”

Mohamed El Gazzar, Senior Partner, I Squared Capital, commented: “Ireland offers a strong market for long-term infrastructure investment underpinned by clear policy direction and a growing need for sustainable solutions. As a longterm investor in Enva, we are proud to support the continued growth of the business through investments like Walshestown. This facility reflects the rising demand for sustainable, lowcarbon solutions and highlights the critical role that resource recovery infrastructure can play in enabling the circular economy.”

Katharos Secures Seed Financing to Advance UK Recycling and Material Recovery Infrastructure Development

Katharos, a new British recycling business, has announced the successful closing of its seed financing. With this pivotal funding, Katharos will accelerate the development of new waste and recycling management infrastructure, aiding the UK’s transition to a circular economy. The investment round was led by angel investor, James Vernon, TASC, a leading global carbon project developer, and a number of high-net-worth individuals and corporate investors from diverse sectors, including private equity, infra and renewables, underscoring robust confidence in Katharos’ business plan. The team at Katharos brings extensive expertise from the renewables, waste, recycling and infrastructure sectors,

positioning the organisation to develop comprehensive solutions for its core waste streams: commercial and industrial, local authority / municipal, dry mixed recycling residue, and pre-sorting residual feedstock for energy from waste plants, increasing material recovery and decreasing carbon emissions.

The UK government has a statutory recycling target for 65% of municipal waste by 20351 With rates currently around 44%2 in the UK, there is a significant need for new recycling infrastructure and capacity. The Environmental Services Association, the UK’s recycling and waste treatment industry body, has estimated that the sector will need to invest £10 billion in recycling infrastructure by 2030 to reach the UK targets. With a focus on developing new Material Recovery Facilities, Katharos is well-positioned to support this capital

deployment and address the demand for efficient and modern recycling solutions.

“Our mission at Katharos is to increase the UK recycling’s capacity and support the UK’s long-term circular economy objectives,” said Francis Mann, Katharos CEO and Co-Founder.

“Closing this seed round, with our new investors standing alongside our team and board, we will now accelerate the development of our project pipeline and market engagement.”

Kareen Boutonnat, Chair of the Board, also said: “Closing this seed round is more than a financing milestone – it is a clear signal of investor confidence in Katharos’ ability to deliver recycling infrastructure that the UK genuinely needs. We are wellplaced to contribute meaningfully to the country’s circular economy objectives.”

recycling & waste management

Independent UK Market Report Indicates Northern Ireland’s Disproportionate Reliance on Waste Export Markets

Northern Ireland accounts for over 16% of the UK’s total residual waste exports despite only having less than 3% of the UK population. This is due to a local infrastructure deficit which risks significant economic, environmental and reputational damage, according to Indaver.

Data from a recent market report by the UK’s leading independent waste sector advisors, Refynix (formerly Tolvik Consulting), has confirmed that Northern Ireland has a hugely disproportionate reliance on waste export markets to manage its residual, black bin waste compared to other UK regions. This is largely non-recyclable waste that is being exported to fuel energy-from-waste plants across Europe due to insufficient treatment capacity in the UK, including in Northern Ireland. This means the waste’s inherent value is being extracted abroad through renewable electricity and heat recovery which supports other decarbonisation uses. Based on 2025 figures, Northern Ireland accounted for 16.1% – some 302,000 tonnes (up from 289,000t) out of a UK total of 1.87Mt of residual waste exports. This worrying reliance on waste exports has grown dramatically in recent years (by nearly 2.5 times since 2020) and is directly due to the lack of local integrated waste infrastructure to manage this waste in a sustainable manner.

According to Indaver, the European waste management experts behind plans to deliver a £250m public waste infrastructure project to meet the needs of six Northern Ireland councils that make up the arc21 area, this data proves how much of an outlier Northern Ireland has become in its approach to waste management infrastructure. The

company has been warning for some time that Northern Ireland is facing a looming waste crisis unless it delivers the necessary infrastructure to manage its own waste.

Speaking about their concerns, Colin O’Hanlon, Indaver, said: “There is chronic under-capacity in the Northern Ireland waste management sector for our black bin waste, and this latest independent data proves we are lagging significantly behind the rest of the UK and Europe in adopting the modern infrastructure necessary to address this growing challenge. We have been saying for some time that continued inaction means we are nearing a tipping point where we are increasingly vulnerable and risk adding a waste crisis to our existing wastewater infrastructure crisis. This could further damage Northern Ireland’s economic aspirations and environmental stewardship.

“For many years through various strategies and plans energy recovery from waste has been viewed as a more environmentallyfriendly solution than landfill, which it is. Waste exports were only ever seen as an interim solution until Northern Ireland developed sufficient modern and robust infrastructure, but that long-term solution still needs to be progressed. Waste exporting is a notoriously complex process involving many movements of waste on roads and ships and which requires port infrastructure and storage. It is our view that the issues being experienced over recent years in Warrenpoint, where over 85% of this waste is currently exported from, are a direct symptom of the risks associated with this process and our wider reliance on waste export.

“This is not only an unsustainable approach which comes with economic, environmental and reputational risks, but the markets for this waste are increasingly unreliable and volatile. They can be subject to the vagaries of European weather and resulting market demand and in some cases RDF imports are now being taxed by the receiving countries. All this explains why the rest of the UK has and continues to invest in modern waste infrastructure thus reducing reliance on waste exports. Meanwhile Northern Ireland is not.”

In line with Northern Ireland government policy, Indaver believes that like most councils in the rest of the UK, implementing a local solution would deliver self-reliance, enable Northern Ireland to increase recycling levels and ensure we recover energy from Northern Ireland waste locally instead of abroad, benefiting both the environment and the economy.

Alex Robinson Joins WRAP as Chief Programmes Officer

Alex Robinson, former CEO of award-winning behavioural change organisation Hubbub, has joined global environmental action NGO WRAP as Chief Programmes Officer. Alex will oversee the work of WRAP’s core programmes across resource management, the circular economy, food systems transformation (water – waste –emissions), packaging, textiles & fashion, and its behaviour change work.

Alex Robinson said, “Shifting behaviour at scale is one of the toughest and most important things we can do to tackle the climate and nature crises. WRAP is one of the few organisations genuinely equipped to do it, through its work with governments, business, NGOs and citizens. I’ve long admired Catherine and the team’s work and I’m excited to play my part in the next chapter.”

As Chief Programmes Officer, Alex will lead the design,

delivery and impact of WRAP’s full global programme. He will work closely with CEO Catherine David to evolve WRAP’s collaborative action programmes with businesses under its sector specific Pacts, as well as programmes supporting local authorities and devolved governments to improve recycling, reduce waste, and encourage circular economy practices.

Catherine David, WRAP CEO said, “I am delighted to welcome

Alex to WRAP and excited to work with him to scale WRAP’s impact globally in pursuit of our Circular Living mission. Alex brings a wealth of valuable experience in leading inventive system change programmes for circularity, a sharp commercial focus and a truly global outlook. I can think of no one better suited to accelerate the next phase of WRAP’s impact: for people, partners and planet.”

As CEO, Alex scaled Hubbub’s delivery to inspire the equivalent of one public environmental action every nine seconds. Hubbub was named Charity Times’ Charity of the Year in 2023.

A NEW ERA FOR BOBCAT LOADERS UNVEILED AT DEMO DAYS 2026

After last year’s focus on the latest developments in the company’s mini excavator range, the Bobcat Demo Days 2026 event from 26th May to 4th June, put the spotlight on what is new in the Bobcat loader range. This included Demo Days debuts for the new R-Series Evolution compact loaders, the new T650 compact track loader and the new MT120 mini track loader. Held again at the Doosan Bobcat headquarters for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in Dobris, close to Prague in the Czech Republic, the very successful Bobcat Demo Days 2026 showcased over 90 different machines from the Bobcat range for testing. Combined with a choice of over 250 attachments and accessories, customers operated machines in real working conditions in applications in agriculture, construction and demolition, forestry, grading and earthworks, landscaping, lifting and material handling and road construction.

Katinka Kincses, Bobcat Product Manager for loaders, said: “It has been 15 years since we started Demo Days and they have proved to be must-visit events for our Bobcat dealers and their customers to try out a wide selection of machines and different types of attachments in working conditions. They continue to provide the ideal occasions for Bobcat and its customers from all around EMEA to build even closer relationships.”

R-SERIES EVOLUTION LOADERS: ELEVATED OPERATOR EXPERIENCE AND GREATER AGILITY

The new R-Series is the next evolution of the Bobcat compact loader line-up, delivering more choice; more control and more operatorready technology across the industry’s most expansive compact loader portfolio.

The next generation R-Series skid-steer and compact track loaders introduce significant enhancements in operator experience, performance and reliability. In recognition of these changes, Bobcat has updated the nomenclature of its R-Series models to identify the latest generation of machines. This

approach supports continuous advancement at the model level, allowing new technology and performance enhancements to be introduced more frequently. As updates are rolled out, model name changes provide customers with confirmation that they are getting Bobcat’s most current innovations. R-Series models include:

• Compact Track Loaders: T66-2, T76-2, T86-2

• Skid-Steer Loaders: S66-2, S76-2, S86-2

This latest R Series evolution introduces a more powerful 115 HP engine on the S86 2 and T86 2 models to support high demanding applications, alongside the addition of up to 3.7 m (12 ft) lift height capability, a new 8 inch touchscreen display with integrated technology and four selectable drive modes that allow operators to tailor machine responsiveness, complemented by further enhancements to machine quality, durability and uptime. In the UK, Bobcat is also introducing an industry-leading 36-month full standard coverage warranty for the R-Series loaders.

THE NEW T650 EXPANDING THE BOBCAT LOADER RANGE

Bobcat is expanding its portfolio with the new T650 Stage V compact track loader, engineered for highly regulated markets across Europe and other Stage V regions. Built at the Bobcat plant in Dobris in the Czech Republic, the T650 combines

demo days 2026

the proven performance of this 600frame M-Series loader with full Stage V emissions compliance – without the need for AdBlue. Powered by a reliable 2.4litre Bobcat engine delivering 55 kW (74 HP), the machine offers strong, efficient performance for demanding applications. Despite its compact footprint, the new T650 delivers impressive work capacity with a vertical lift path and 1192 kg rated operating capacity, making it ideal for truck loading, pallet handling and earthmoving in confined or sensitive job sites. Designed for durability and uptime, the T650 features a robust steel frame, efficient cooling, broad attachment compatibility with the proprietary Bob-Tach™ mounting system, optional High-Flow hydraulics and standard Machine IQ telematics for smarter fleet management. Operator comfort and precise control complete

the package, making the T650 a versatile, dependable solution for year-round work. The T650 is also an excellent tool carrier, making use of customers’ existing Bobcat attachments with unrestricted compatibility. Thanks to the forward cab position and fully transparent door, operators always have a full and direct view of the attachment and the job site. And with the powerful LED working lights, they will continue to be productive even in low-light conditions.

FIRST APPEARANCE OF MT120 MINI TRACK LOADER AT DEMO DAYS

Another debutant at Demo Days was the new MT120 mini track loader. This machine, the most powerful in its class from the manufacturer, offers increased lifting capacity and unmatched performance in height and reach, to meet the needs of landscaping construction and ground maintenance professionals.

Equipped with a 1.2-litre non-diesel particulate filter (DPF) engine, the MT120 delivers robust breakout forces and a maximum tipping load of 1,573 kg. Its width of 91 cm makes it ideal for working in the tightest spaces, while ensuring low ground pressure to preserve surfaces. With a lift height of 2.24 m and a reach of 56 cm, the MT120 stands out for its versatility for landscaping professionals. Its integrated platform offers optimal visibility and smooth controls for precise and intuitive control. Thanks to maintenance-free components (DPF-free engine, direct drive system, maintenance-free rollers and bushings), the Bobcat MT120 ensures a strong durability and low operating costs. Its low ground pressure, coupled with its exceptional capacity, makes it a great solution for landscapers working difficult jobs on established turf or finished concrete. Compatible with more than 20 categories of attachments, it is suitable for a wide range of applications.

ICE EXPO 2026 BREAKS

ALL RECORDS WITH 16,000+ VISITORS AND €20,000 RAISED FOR IRISH

ICE Expo 2026 has officially cemented itself as one of Ireland’s fastest-growing and most exciting industry events, with a record-breaking attendance of over 16,000 visitors across the two-day show at Punchestown Event Centre.

The event welcomed an incredible 6,124 visitors on Friday and a further 9,876 on Saturday, bringing the total attendance to more than 16,000 people through the gates – and that figure does not even include children in attendance.

This year’s show also saw exhibitor numbers more than double, with over 300 exhibitors showcasing the very latest machinery, equipment, technology, and services from across the industry.

ICE Expo 2026 delivered an unmatched atmosphere, exceptional footfall, and genuine buying audiences, further solidifying its reputation as a must-attend event for exhibitors and visitors alike.

At ICE Expo, the team have always believed in continuously growing, evolving, and

CHARITIES

investing in the future of the industry – and this year’s results proved exactly that. Through significant investment in advertising, promotion and marketing, ICE Expo increased footfall by over 166%, delivering the kind of crowds and genuine buyers that exhibitors and attendees want to see.

It’s clear the industry appreciates the effort being made to continue pushing the event forward and creating a show that truly delivers for everyone involved.

ICE expo 2026 review

SUCCESS BUILT ON COLLABORATION

The ICE Expo team wish to thank every single exhibitor, attendee, customer, friend, and family member who supported the event. The incredible backing from the industry has been overwhelming and is a true testament to the strength, passion and unity within this sector.

They are also issuing a huge thank you to all of their sponsors and to every company that generously donated to the charity auction. Thanks to the amazing generosity shown throughout the weekend, ICE Expo was delighted to raise €20,000 for their two chosen charity partners – Teac Tom and the Irish Cancer Society.

The ICE Expo team would also like to acknowledge the incredible work of all contractors and suppliers involved in delivering the event. Their professionalism and flawless execution helped make the show what it was. Special thanks to Punchestown Event Centre for all their

support, Plant & Civil Engineer magazine, Sammy, Pete the builder & The Tyre Warrior, all of whom were an absolute pleasure to work alongside throughout the event.

A very special thank you also goes to their legendary guest Sean Quinn, whose attendance added hugely to the weekend. They are additionally sending their gratitude to the amazing team at DMC for keeping everything running smoothly behind-thescenes, and to the entire ICE Expo family for the dedication, hard work, and heart that every single person put into making this event such a phenomenal success.

WINNERS IN FOCUS

ICE Expo 2026 also featured some hugely competitive live challenges and entertainment throughout the weekend.

Tyre Changing Challenge Winners:

• Tractor Tyre Change Champion

– John Mallen (43 seconds)

• Truck Tyre Change Champion –Shane Brennan (28 seconds)

• Car Tyre Change Champion –Maurice Fitz (26 seconds)

The Operators Challenges, proudly sponsored by DoneDeal Agri, also drew huge crowds:

• Connect 4 Champion – Liam McCormack

• Runner-up – Craig Johnson

• Operators Challenge Winner

– Richard O’Leary

Following the overwhelming success of this year’s event and based on the feedback from all their exhibitors, ICE Expo is delighted to officially announce that the show will return even bigger and better on 9th and 10th June 2028. Bookings for ICE Expo 2028 are already flowing in, with expansion plans already underway as demand continues to grow. For exhibitor enquiries and bookings, contact Jennifer McCabe at pr@iceexpo.ie ICE Expo 2028 – Bigger. Better. Stronger.

BALMORAL SHINES AT 157th SHOW

The weather couldn’t dampen spirits as the 2026 Balmoral Show, in partnership with Ulster Bank, welcomed tens of thousands of visitors to the Eikon Exhibition Centre for four unforgettable days of agri and machinery excellence.

As Northern Ireland’s premier agri-food event, the event once again united rural and urban communities for a packed programme of educational and family-friendly attractions, including cookery demonstrations, traditional heritage crafts, a children’s sensory trail, the mesmerising heavy horse parade in the SPAR Main Arena, and countless opportunities to experience first-hand the exceptional quality of machines, livestock, horses and local food on display.

For exhibitors and competitors, the four-day event also delivered unrivalled networking opportunities, generating valuable business leads and fostering new connections set to strengthen organisations and businesses over the coming year.

The 2026 event marked the 157th Balmoral Show organised by the

Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS). Staff and dedicated volunteers behind the charity once again worked tirelessly to uphold the high standards for which the show is renowned.

Rhonda Geary, Group Operations Director at the RUAS, said: “This year’s Balmoral Show, held in partnership with Ulster Bank,

proved to be a tremendous success. The RUAS is proud to provide our agri-food producers with a unique platform to showcase the strength, quality and innovation that underpin this long-established industry, as well as the unwavering dedication of the people behind it. We extend our sincere thanks to all exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, staff and contractors whose hard work helped make the event such a memorable occasion.”

Next year’s Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will take place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre from Wednesday 19th-toSaturday 22nd May 2027.

For more information on the Balmoral Show visit www. balmoralshow.co.uk or follow Balmoral Show on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

COMMUNITY AND COMPETITION COMBINE AT MPANI’S JOINT INDUSTRY GOLF DAY

The recent MPANI Joint Industry Charity Golf Day at the Hilton Hotel and Country Club in Templepatrick once again marked a memorable industry milestone, blending friendly rivalry with a shared spirit of giving back.

The event saw representatives from different facets of the sector navigating the course for worthy causes, Air Ambulance Northern Ireland and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.

The winners were:

1st Team: Creagh Concrete 95Pts 2nd Team: McQuillan Companies 90Pts

3rd Team: Northstone 3 89Pts

Individual 1st Nett: Peter McKeague 41Pts

Individual 2nd Nett: Derek

McKendry (Northstone Team) BB9 38Pts

Individual Gross: David Chambers BB6 82

Longest Drive 6th: Gavin Hunter

Longest Drive 16th: Liam Donnelly

Nearest the Pin 4th: Steve Vaughan

Nearest the Pin 11th: Josh Newman

Nearest the Pin 15th: Willy McLaughlin

mixing plant

RAPID INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY POWERS PROGRESS ON LANDMARK ADARE BYPASS

Rapid International Ltd has recently sold Breedon Ireland a Rapidmix RMX400CW continuous mixing plant for the Adare Bypass project. This investment supports the delivery of a major infrastructure scheme requiring high volumes of accurately mixed, precision-bound materials.

As Ireland accelerates investment in critical infrastructure, the Adare Bypass is emerging as one of the country’s most strategically significant road projects. Designed to ease chronic congestion in the village of Adare while strengthening regional connectivity, the scheme also carries added importance as Ireland prepares to host the Ryder Cup in 2027 at nearby Adare Manor.

A PROJECT OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE

Delivering a project of this scale and complexity demands not only engineering expertise, but also the ability to produce large volumes of high-quality construction materials with consistency and precision. It is here that the Rapidmix 400CW from Rapid International Ltd, headquartered in County Armagh, has provided huge advantages to Breedon.

Part of the wider Breedon Group, Breedon Ireland has established itself as one of the country’s leading construction materials and contracting businesses. With capabilities spanning aggregates, asphalt, ready-mix concrete, and civil engineering services, the company continues to play a central role in delivering major infrastructure projects across Ireland.

ENGINEERING PERFORMANCE AT SCALE

For the Adare Bypass, Breedon Ireland required a solution capable of meeting rigorous modern road specifications while maintaining high output and operational efficiency across a multi-phase build. Rapid International responded by supplying its Rapidmix RMX400CW continuous mixing plant. A system specifically engineered for high-capacity, high-accuracy production. The plant is being used to produce Cement Bound Granular Material (CGBM), a critical component in modern road construction. With output rates of up to 400 tonnes per hour and mixing accuracy within 1%, the Rapidmix system ensures a consistent, homogenous material essential for longterm road performance and durability.

Rapid International’s Rapidmix RMX400CW is playing a role in the delivery of the Adare Bypass

Beyond performance, mobility has proven to be a defining advantage. The fully selfcontained design allows the plant to be quickly deployed and repositioned on-site as construction progresses, reducing downtime and minimising logistical complexity. This flexibility has enabled Breedon Ireland to maintain momentum across different phases of the project while ensuring a steady, reliable material supply.

Rapid International has also supported Breedon with ongoing technical expertise, helping to ensure smooth integration and dependable operation throughout the construction process with the Rapidmix.

DELIVERING RESULTS ON SITE

The impact of the Rapidmix RMX400CW has been evident throughout the project thus far. Its ability to maintain high production output has helped the team meet demanding programme schedules, while consistent material quality supports the long-term durability of the road.

On-site mixing has reduced logistical complexity, and the plant’s rapid setup and ease of operation have contributed to improved overall efficiency as works progress.

PROVEN IN PRACTICE

Brian McManus, Managing Director of Breedon Ireland’s Contracting division, highlighted the value of the solution: “It delivers the high output needed to keep pace with a demanding schedule, while consistently producing the quality of material required.”

He also pointed to the plant’s mobility, ease of use, and the importance of ongoing technical support in maintaining performance on a fast-moving project.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

As construction continues on the 7km motorway, including a major three-span bridge over the River Maigue and a series of new interchanges, the role of high-performance material production remains central to progress.

Integrating the machine into such a project demonstrates how advanced mixing technology is helping to underpin modern infrastructure delivery. By combining precision, output, and adaptability, solutions like the Rapidmix RMX400CW are not only meeting the demands of today’s projects, but also helping to future-proof Ireland’s transport network.

JCB GRABS BOOST MACHINE VERSATILITY

JCB offers a comprehensive range of UK-manufactured grabs designed for construction, demolition, waste and agricultural applications.

Performance-matched with JCB machines, the range includes power grabs, selector grabs and multi-shovels with grab capability – each engineered to handle specific material handling tasks while delivering durability, control and productivity on site.

POWER GRABS

JCB’s power grab range can handle high volumes of materials quickly and efficiently, helping operators maximise productivity in agricultural and material handling applications. Available in a variety of sizes and fittings, the attachment is manufactured using highstrength steel, creating a structure that is stronger, lighter and more efficient. Forged or Hardox tines are available, allowing the grab to be configured for different materials and operating environments.

A fully fabricated wide opening jaw delivers greater clamping force while improving operator visibility during loading and handling tasks. The attachment also features a unique double boxed frame and enclosed rear shell, helping keep the carriage and hydraulic components cleaner during operation. Durability and reliability are enhanced through a range of features, including: soft-close hydraulic rams that cushion jaw operation and reduce pin wear, along with a rear-mounted hydraulic ram with inward-facing fittings to protect hydraulic hoses from damage.

A full-width base wear strip protects the tine box, while a solid fork back panel with visibility cut-outs and an integrated spill guard helps prevent material from contaminating the carriage and hydraulics.

SELECTOR GRABS

JCB SG selector grabs are designed to work with JCB excavators from 1 to 24 tonnes, providing a robust and versatile attachment for sorting, handling and loading a wide variety of materials across construction, demolition, recycling and landscaping applications. The range covers compact machines through to larger excavators, with models including SG30, SG70, SG100, SG180, SG240, SG325, SG400, SG530 and SG620, with capacities of 0.03m³ to 0.62m³.

Designed for demanding environments, the selector grabs feature perforated shells that improve both material retention and operator visibility, while large jaw openings allow operators to easily handle awkward or irregular materials. Reversible HB500 wear toeplates provide extended service life, and

the design ensures the grab will continue to close effectively even as the toeplates wear. Operational precision is enhanced by 360-degree unlimited rotation, enabling accurate placement and efficient sorting of materials during loading and demolition tasks. For added safety, the clamping cylinder incorporates a hose burst check valve, while side-mounted hydraulic hoses with protective guarding help extend hose life in tough working conditions.

Each selector grab is supplied ready to work with hanger bracket, hoses, pins and operator documentation matched to the relevant JCB machine, ensuring straightforward installation and immediate productivity on site.

Suitable for applications including selective demolition, roadworks, utility installation, waste handling and forestry maintenance, JCB selector grabs enable operators to sort, load and handle materials quickly and safely while maximising the versatility of their excavator fleet.

MULTI-SHOVELS

JCB’s Multi-Shovel range provides a highly versatile attachment designed to handle a wide variety of tasks with a single tool. Manufactured from high-strength steel, the multi-shovel is engineered to be stronger, lighter and more efficient, helping operators increase productivity across multiple applications.

A wide opening grab ensures a firm grip on materials, improving safety and allowing operators to handle loads confidently in demanding environments. The attachment can be specified with fabricated grabs or forged tines, enabling customers to tailor the tool to suit specific operating requirements. Durability is enhanced through the use of HB500 boron steel wear edges, providing increased resistance to wear in heavyduty applications. The fully fabricated jaw structure delivers exceptional strength while also improving visibility for the operator during loading and material handling tasks.

To support long-term reliability and reduced maintenance, the multi-shovel incorporates self-lubricating bushes and maintenancefree high-grade pins, helping minimise service requirements and maximise uptime. Soft-close hydraulic rams cushion jaw operation, reducing shock loads and extending pin life, while inward-facing hydraulic ram fittings help protect hoses from damage in tough working conditions. The design also allows the attachment to operate fully against walls, enabling efficient material handling in confined areas while reducing the risk of damage to the machine or structure.

GUIDE BUYERS

PLANT DISTRIBUTORS

Plant Sales Ltd

DISTRIBUTOR OF: Ammann rollers & compaction equipment, Ausa mini dumpers, Beton concrete vibratory equipment, Radiodetection cable and pipe detection equipment, Hycon hydraulic power packs and tools, Rotair tools and compressors, Yanmar mini excavators.

• Excavators 1 – 45 tonne • 6 – 8 Wheeled Tippers • Mini Digger Hire • Rockhammers