In Northern Ireland, as of March 06, 2025, the construction industry is facing significant challenges, particularly following the restoration of the Northern Ireland Executive and the recent agreement on the Programme for Government 2024-2027. The combination of a freshly restored government, delayed infrastructure projects, and historically low housebuilding completions signals several warning bells for the […]
Benefits of Microsoft Project for Clients and Builders Microsoft Project offers significant advantages for both clients and builders in construction and development projects. Here are the key benefits for each group: Benefits for Clients Benefits for Builders
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/procurement-act-2023-guidance-documents-procure-phase The Procurement Act 2023 is a significant legislative reform that overhauls public procurement laws in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Came into effect on 24 February 2025, the Act aims to simplify and modernize procurement processes, enhancing transparency, flexibility, and accessibility for suppliers. Link above to guidance documents. Key Differences from the Current System: […]
To provide a comprehensive view of the housing market in Northern Ireland from 2014 to 2023, I have compiled data on housing completions, average house prices, average rents, and construction costs. The construction cost data is based on the Construction Output Price Indices (OPIs) published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which measure the […]
Based on the two documents “226718 NIAO Major Capital Projects_FINAL LW RES Complete.pdf” and “NI Audit Office Report – Major Capital Projects (follow-up).pdf”, here are the projects ranked by largest cost overruns: The report highlights systemic issues across projects including: The reports emphasize that while individual factors contributed to specific project overruns, there are fundamental […]
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 […]
Today, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced several significant infrastructure initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth: These initiatives are part of the government’s strategy to enhance infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and improve regional connectivity. Ireland has recently announced several significant infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing transportation, energy, and digital connectivity: Transportation Energy Digital Connectivity These developments reflect […]
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 […]