Author: Kevin Barry BSc(Hons) MRICS

In the Northern Ireland Executive, significant infrastructure decisions are primarily the responsibility of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), led by the Minister for Infrastructure. Key Roles and Responsibilities: Decision-Making Process: While the Minister for Infrastructure holds significant authority over infrastructure matters, major decisions, especially those that are cross-cutting or controversial, are brought before the Executive […]

Following a productive meeting with Jim Shannon MP today, there are encouraging signs that cross-party cooperation – already proving effective on the Ballynahinch bypass project – could help advance the case for a Strangford Lough crossing. Mr. Shannon and Chris Hazzard MP are currently working constructively together to lobby Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd on delivering […]

The Northern Ireland Football Fund (TNIFF), formerly known as the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, is an initiative by the Department for Communities aimed at investing in local football infrastructure across Northern Ireland. Announced by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, the fund seeks to modernize and enhance football facilities, promoting participation and community engagement. Investment Strands: TNIFF comprises […]

In 2023, Belfast Harbour welcomed a record 158 cruise ship calls, bringing approximately 320,000 passengers and crew to the city. While the direct revenue earned by Belfast Harbour Commissioners from these cruise ship visits isn’t publicly disclosed, it’s noted that cruise tourism contributes an estimated £25 million annually to the local economy. Encouraging further investment […]

Tendering a building project in Northern Ireland involves adhering to specific procedures and regulations designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance with both local and broader UK and EU procurement laws. Here’s an overview of the key rules and steps: 1. Understand the Procurement Thresholds 2. Develop a Tender Strategy 3. Prepare Tender Documents The […]

As a new service for clients, the above visual representation of cost tells a story. Below we help explain why a cost heatmap is beneficial for projects; in this example, 3 extensions were being added to an existing building. 2. Decision Making Support 3. Stakeholder Communication 4. Project Planning

QUINTIN QS continuing to expand services online, with several further potential offerings, ranging from niche expertise to comprehensive solutions. Here’s a list of services further expanding online during 2025: 1. Estimation Services 2. Cost Management 3. Tendering Support 4. Contract Administration 5. Project Feasibility Studies 6. Dispute Resolution 7. Specialized Reporting 8. Training and Consulting […]

The rich and wise have planned to purchase property for their children, following their birth. And rent out said properties to generate an income stream in the interim period. A win-win situation for rich people. Money makes money ! Building up equity over time. For mere mortals, based on data from the Office for National […]

Below the BCIS tender cost analysis dated April 29, 2024 for Belfast city centre based refurbishment (GF only), examining each element and the rates: Overall Project Statistics: Element Analysis: 2C Roof: 2F Windows/External Doors: 2G Internal Walls/Partitions: 2H Internal Doors: 3A Wall Finishes: 3B Floor Finishes: 3C Ceiling Finishes: 5D Mechanical: 5H Electrical: 5N BWIC: […]