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Terra Solutions a specialist trenchless civil engineering contractor based at Carnbane in Newry has secured a major contract to link a £57million office development in the City of London to the London Underground.
The specialist tunnelling firm has been subcontracted by Hochtief UK Ltd to create two passenger tunnels between a ticketing office under Bloomberg’s planned European headquarters and Bank Station, which is on the Waterloo and City line.
The company, which is being supported by Ulster Bank, will begin work on the contract this month, with the project due to be completed before summer 2016.
Barry McAllister, Managing Director of Terra Solutions, says: “In order to reduce peak period congestion on the Waterloo and City line at Bank Station, Transport for London has reached an agreement with the developer of Bloomberg Place to construct a new ticket hall within its basement, providing an entrance/exit. These new passenger entrances will be formed by two 5.5m diameter tunnels, and Terra Solutions is delighted to have been appointed to carry out the specialist tunnelling works.”
“We’ve worked closely with Ulster Bank for more than seven years, and they have supported our continued development and growth. As part of this latest project, Ulster Bank is providing us with increased facilities to help us meet the investment needed to complete such a major contract,” he adds.
The £57m Bloomberg Place development, which will be the financial information provider’s new European headquarters, will comprise of two nine-floor office buildings, providing more than 110,000 sq m of high-specification office space.
The tunnels will be constructed by Terra Solutions using sprayed concrete lining (SCL) tunnelling, using the new ‘Strong-back Method’, only used before on Victoria Station. Sprayed concrete lining is a method for large diameter tunnel construction in the UK, sometimes described as the NATM (New Austrian Tunnelling Method). This method comprises the staged excavation of the tunnel using mechanical excavation and the application of sprayed concrete to the excavated surfaces to provide ground support. The sprayed concrete supports the excavation both temporarily and permanently.
After the tunnels have been formed, a permanent cast in-situ concrete lining, reinforced with steel bars, is installed. The tunnel can only remain unsupported for a limited time and hence the permanent, load-bearing secondary lining is required.
Girvan Gault, Head of Lisburn Business Centre at Ulster Bank, says: “Terra Solutions secured this very prestigious contract to deliver a world-class infrastructure project against stiff competition from international businesses. They will be using new tunnelling technology, putting them at the cutting-edge of engineering, and Ulster Bank is very pleased to support them to deliver the project.”
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For Businesses across Newry today it was a case of the ‘Meade effect’ when Broadcaster, speaker and trainer David Meade visited the City as a guest of Best Property Services to deliver a highly entertaining seminar on Management and Consumer behaviour with a little mind reading thrown in for good measure.
The breakfast event in the Omniplex Theatre marked 125 years for Best Property Services who invited their clients and professional network to hear from management and leadership expert and BBC star David Meade who shared his insight on making businesses more productive, effective and efficient.
Garry Best, Managing Director Best Property Services said: “Despite challenges in the marketplace, we’ve continued to be the leading agent in this region for 125 years, providing Land, Commercial and Residential expertise.
“I believe, this is because we continue to invest in our staff, our customer experience and nurture innovation in our business. It seemed fitting to host an event which shared that innovative approach and David was an ideal speaker. The session was valuable and very entertaining and feedback from attendees has been fanstastic,” Garry added.
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Over 35 Norbrook employees have gained qualifications in an NVQ Programme at the Southern Regional College (SRC). The achievement was recognised at a presentation ceremony at the college with guests including the new CEO of Norbrook, Mr. Liam Nagle.
The staff achieved qualifications in Business Administration, Performing Manufacturing Operations and Laboratory Technique Programmes at Levels 2 and 3.
Speaking at the event, SRC’s Chief Executive, Mr Brian Doran, said “Norbrook is a prize asset to the people of Newry and we are delighted to be continuing the strong partnership that now exists between the company and our college.
I hope that through the range of initiatives that are now in place with Norbrook - ranging from employee development opportunities, placement opportunities for our students to the development of the first Higher Level Apprenticeship in Applied Industrial Science in Northern Ireland, we can continue to respond to the skills needs of Norbrook both now and in the future”.
Liam Nagle, Norbrook CEO congratulated the staff on their achievements and spoke of the longstanding engagement with Southern Regional College. He also highlighted his commitment to employee development in Norbrook to ensure the company moves forward with a highly skilled and motivated workforce.
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Newry’s very own business Oscars saw Twenty one awards presented to the crème of local business talent at the Greater Newry Area Business Awards Ceremony in the Canal Court Hotel organised by Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade.
Over 500 people attended the high profile and prestigious event, guest hosted by Mark Simpson, BBC. It celebrated the very best that the Greater Newry Area business community has to offer and profiled the exceptionally high standard of business leadership, ambition, entrepreneurship and innovativeness which is synonymous with this region.
Over 260 applications from local businesses were entered into this awards competition; with a record number of written award applications received. The independent adjudicators of the awards were extremely impressed by the high standard and volume of applications.
President Deborah Loughran, Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade, stated, ‘we are delighted with how successful the event has been. Our local businesses are continuing to innovate, invest in product development and improved customer service, outperforming their peers across the region. This event celebrates and showcases their success and I would like to congratulate all of our winning, highly commended and finalist companies. On behalf of the Newry Chamber, I would like to thank our principal sponsors, Newry Mourne & Down District Council, BE Aerospace and The Canal Court, together with the sponsors of our individual awards for their support and commitment, without which this event would not have been possible. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all who entered the awards, for taking time out of their busy schedules to draft applications and to enter into the spirit of this independently adjudicated awards competition.’
Cllr Naomi Bailie, Chairperson, Newry Mourne & Down Council said ‘On behalf of the Council, I am delighted to support and endorse this prestigious event. This competition provides a great opportunity for us all to celebrate the success of our local business community which is providing, jobs, wealth and opportunities throughout the new Council region and beyond. I would also like to congratulate Newry Chamber of Commerce on their immense efforts in hosting this event’.
Mr Francis Kelly, Director Furnishings/ Finishings & Facilities, B/E Aerospace (Kilkeel), stated, ‘We, in BE Aerospace were delighted to be a Principal Sponsor of the Greater Newry Area Business Awards 2015. We are delighted to have supported this prestigious business awards competition which showcased regional business excellence, entrepreneurship and determination to succeed, all factors synonymous with the Greater Newry Area business community’.
Ms Eimear McArdle, Canal Court Hotel & Spa added, ‘We were delighted to support Newry Chamber as a Principal Sponsor of this hugely successful and prestigious business awards competition. The local business community is the backbone of our local economy and indeed our business; we are delighted to help showcase the very best that this area has to offer’.
THE WINNERS
Best New Business Award – Mourne Mountain Brewery Ltd
Sponsored by Ulster Bank
Best Green Business Award – The Quays Shopping & Leisure Centre
Sponsored by Power NI
Best Customer Service Award – Independent Retailer – Jack Murphy Jewellers
Sponsored by S&W Today’s
Best Customer Service Award- Multiple Retailer – Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics
Sponsored by The Quays Shopping & Leisure Complex
Best Customer Service Award – Service Sector- Sculpt NC
Sponsored by Firmus Energy
Best Small Business Award – JR Lighting
Sponsored by First Trust Bank
Best Pub Award – Canal Court Hotel & Spa
Sponsored by Mourne Mountains Brewery
Best Premises Award- The Hub Newry
Sponsored by Canal Court Hotel & Spa
Best Business Growth Award – MJM Marine Ltd
Sponsored By Bank of Ireland
Best Excellence in People Award – PKF-FPM Accountants
Sponsored by First Derivatives plc
Best Innovative Business Award – ITS New Media Ltd
Sponsored by BT
Best Marketing Initiative – Buttercrane’s Got Talent
Sponsored by ITS New Media
Best Export Business Award – MJM Marine Ltd
Sponsored by PKF-FPM Accountants
Best Place to Eat Award (Non Licensed) – Froth Coffee Co Ltd
Best Place to Eat Award (Licensed) – Maison’s Restaurant
Sponsored by Autoline
Best Young Entrepreneur Award- Gareth Chambers, Around Noon
Sponsored by O’Hare & McGovern
Best Tourism Award (Joint Winners)
Slieve Gullion Forest Park – Newry Mourne & Down District Council
Martin Murtagh – Newry City Tours
Sponsored by Newry Junior Chamber
Best Social Enterprise Award- Newry Credit Union
Sponsored by Newry & Mourne Enterprise Agency
Best Social Corporate Responsibility Award – Southern Area Hospice Services
Sponsored by Parkergreen International
Outstanding Contribution to the Greater Newry Area Award
The Board of Newry & Mourne Enterprise Agency
Sponsored by Buttercrane Shopping Centre{igallery id=1323|cid=277|pid=6|type=category|children=0|addlinks=0|tags=|limit=0}
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JR Lighting based at Greenbank Business Centre, Newry has won the Best Small Business Award at last weeks Greater Newry Area Business Awards.
The journey to this achievement began almost 40 years ago, yet this is the first time the family run business JR Lighting has entered for the award. To win on the first attempt is remarkable and a reflection of the dedication and hard work from the McKee family and their co-workers.
Managing Director Ronnie McKee said, ” We are delighted to have received this award and it is a great boost to our company. We are very lucky to have been one of the few companies that have seen growth, during and coming out of a deep recession.
It is my belief that this is thanks to our excellent customer service, hard work and our fantastic premises in this booming border city. I would like to say a very big thank you to all my co-workers and my parents whose entrepreneurial spirit was an inspiration to my sister and I”.
Managing Director Karen McKee also expressed her thanks to the hard working employees of the company and to all the loyal customers of JR Lighting who have contributed to the success and longevity of the business.
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A new action plan "Lets do Business" was released recently by the chambers of commerce network across the province.
The plan supported by Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade makes over 20 recommendations that will reduce the cost of doing business and lead to the creation of thousands jobs across the Province in the construction, retail, tourism, manufacturing and service sectors.
It is the first time that chambers of commerce have joined forces in such as appeal and comes on the back of Northern Ireland’s growing town centre vacancy rate which is the highest in the UK at 17.3% according to the latest Springboard survey.
With footfall also down by 4.5%, the chambers of commerce here are seeking a firm commitment to a ‘town centre first’ approach from each council area.
Commenting on the launch of ‘Let’s do business’, the network said “Chambers of commerce throughout Northern Ireland are committed to protecting the vitality and viability of their towns and city centres through sustainable development and effective regeneration. The chambers of commerce network in Northern Ireland therefore seeks a firm commitment to a Town Centre First planning policy being produced for each of the new district council areas.
“Building upon the excellent relationships between local chambers and Local Government, we believe that it is the chamber of commerce network that is best placed to work with Local Government on community plans. We now encourage local councils to support our recommendations and help instil confidence back into businesses.”
Amongst the recommendations made by the network, are those around business rates. Recent research by Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry revealed that a massive 78% of Northern Ireland business owners want to see the decades old system reviewed and consideration given to a system which more adequately reflects economic and business conditions. Particular concerns were expressed around the equity of the current system and members also asked for greater transparency around what their business rates actually pay for.
In areas with higher rates, the impact could be the difference between businesses in these areas remaining viable and having to close. If an increase in rates is unavoidable, Councillors must chose the maximum period of adjustment allowed to ensure the viability of those businesses and protect local jobs.
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Newry based Ashtree Financial Services has warned Northern Ireland investors about the need to make tax planning a key part of their investment strategies.
The importance of Business Property Relief, and how it can be used to secure a wide range of investment and tax planning opportunities for all clients, not just those in business, was the message delivered at a breakfast seminar hosted by Ashtree Financial Services on Thursday morning.
Guest speaker Tony Sime, Business Development Manager for Downing LLP, outlined to guests the availability of Business Property Relief (BPR) tax planning schemes that are based on current legislation and have a long-term track record of success.
Mr Sime said: “We are delighted to be working with Ashtree Financial Services, highlighting these tax planning opportunities. Using these products which benefit from primary legislation, can make a significant difference to the financial affairs of particular clients.”
Today’s seminar is part of a series of events Ashtree is planning which will highlight key financial planning issues and advice on how to address them.
Kevin Curran, Client Services Director of Ashtree Financial Services, commented “Clients are increasingly demanding solutions to help reduce Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax liabilities, and want to limit their exposure to Inheritance Tax. However, they are concerned by the complex issues involved in choosing the right strategy, and often deterred by negative headlines around tax avoidance schemes that have been investigated by HMRC.
“That is why we have decided to highlight the availability of tax planning schemes that are based on current legislation, are not controversial in the eyes of HMRC and have a long-term track record of success. We also wanted to bring together Downing LLP, a leading provider of tax planning investments with over £650 million under management, and the accountancy and tax advice professionals that clients depend on.
“We work closely with accountants to encourage our clients to think more seriously about financial planning and hope that events such as the breakfast seminar can help reinforce the message.”
Headquartered in Newry with branches in Downpatrick, Ballymena, Coleraine and Enniskillen, Ashtree Financial Services is the financial planning division of the Autoline Insurance Group. Established eight years ago, Ashtree integrates financial planning with tax planning to provide a complete wealth management service.
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Around 1,400 cardiac arrests outside of hospitals happen each year in the province!
In an effort to increase the individuals chance of survival 14 SPAR, EUROSPAR and VIVO branded outlets in the Newry area have signed up to a new campaign launched by franchise owners, Henderson Group, to install AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) outside their stores.
Overall, 300 new devices will be installed throughout Northern Ireland with 63 in County Down and 28 in County Armagh. It is intended that these will be available for public throughout 2016. The campaign has received full support from Northern Ireland’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr McBride.
Community and store fundraising at each outlet signed up will fund the devices, aiming for £1,500 to purchase the product, its temperature controlled cabinet and installation.
With around 1,400 cardiac arrests occurring each year in Northern Ireland outside of hospitals, it is vital bystanders perform CPR and make use of an AED device if readily available. This will be Northern Ireland’s largest external network of lifesaving devices.
Henderson Group’s Bronagh Luke, who has pioneered the campaign with her colleagues, says that this initiative is essential for every community to get involved in;
“At the heart of our business we are passionate about local. We hope that every local community will get behind their store’s fundraising campaign and ensure more life-saving devices are on hand, and we encourage retailers and communities to educate themselves with lifesaving practices should an unfortunate incident occur in their area.
“We will have an education campaign running alongside the fundraising campaigns both digitally via specially produced ‘how to use’ videos, and with printed, practical information readily available in store. We know it is not enough to only have the devices in situ, education on community resuscitation and defibrillator usage is a priority.”
Dr McBride says the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) commend the Group for this initiative; “The addition of these external, public access defibrillators to our network of life savers across Northern Ireland is very welcome. The DHSSPS launched the Community Resuscitation Strategy in 2014, with the aim of improving the survival rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. This campaign complements the strategy and we hope that more lives can be saved in the future.”
Working with DCAL and Sport NI, the campaign has been gaining the support of sports stars, actors, musicians and local personalities to push the fundraising message further, for all communities to get involved in their local fundraising activity.
Mrs Luke said of the product; “We are working with Mark Bailie, a State Registered Paramedic and the UK & Ireland agent for one of the most prestigious AED manufacturers in the world, Physio-Control. With Mark’s experience and our extensive product research, we believe this product is the best for our communities. They will be fitted outside stores, in special temperature controlled cabinets, fully accessible 24/7.”
Cardiac Arrest occurs when the heart stops beating. It has been proven that early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillator shock are vital to a person’s chances of surviving a cardiac arrest**. CPR should be started as soon as possible, whilst calling 999.
The Group is working with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to ensure effective mapping of the devices and a full list of stores that have already signed up to install a defibrillator is available below.
Members of the public can find out more about the fundraising campaign and the need for defibrillators on the dedicated website, www.heartofourcommunityni.com and can follow the conversation on social media via the #DefibDonate hashtag.
Devices will be installed in the following stores in the Newry area:
SPAR, Main St, Hiltown
SPAR Greencastle St, Kilkeel
SPAR Newcastle Rd, Kilkeel
SPAR Tullymacrieve Rd, Newry x2
SPAR Rathfriland Rd, Newry
SPAR Patrick St, Newry
SPAR Concession Rd, Culloville
SPAR Newtownhamiliton, Dundalk St
EUROSPAR Warrenpoint
EUROSPAR Newry
EUROSPAR Mayobridge
EUROSPAR Kilkeel
VIVO Essentials, Newry
VIVO Essentials, Stream St, Newry
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Next week sees a major political debate taking place in Newry with a host of high profile speakers including former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Dáithí O’Ceallaigh Former Ambassador to the UK, UN and WTO on the podium on Thursday 29 October from 9am-1pm in the Canal Court Hotel.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in association with the local business community is taking the ‘Brexit Debate’ (Britain’s potential exit from the European Union) to the national stage by hosting the first major political debate to be held in Northern Ireland on the economic implications of the UK leaving the EU.
The potential impact on Northern Ireland of the UK exiting Europe following the proposed Referendum in 2017 cannot be underestimated. With issues to be discussed including the impact on the Peace Process, the future economic prosperity of the region and border control with the Republic of Ireland, this event will look at the pros and cons and the arguments for and against an exit.
With a keynote address from Daithi O Ceallaigh, Former Ambassador to the UK, UN and WTO alongside panellists including Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Labour’s Shadow Minister for Europe Pat McFadden MP featuring in the debate (hosted by Len O’Hagan, Chairman of NI Water) it promises to investigate all of the issues and the impact at a local and national level to assess if we can afford not to be a part of Europe.
Councillor Naomi Bailie, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council said, “We are delighted to be hosting a conference of this calibre in Newry to really kick start the discussion about the impact of a ‘Brexit’ decision on the north of Ireland and across these islands. We believe there is a lack of understanding about how detrimental an exit would be particularly for the north of Ireland as we would be the only region with a land border with an EU member. It would severely affect civic society, trade and free movement particularly in border regions where we have many cross border workers, cross border businesses and cooperation between organisations.
“While we are opposed to an exit we welcome the opportunity to get a full understanding of the arguments for and against during a comprehensive debate with some of the best informed politicians and commentators in Britain and Ireland.”
Deborah Loughran, President of Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade added, “It is essential when we have time on our side ahead of the proposed Referendum in 2017 for people to fully understand the impact an exit from Europe would have on them. We in the business community are delighted to be working with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to bring this debate to Newry. The calibre of speakers we have attracted is testament to seriousness of this issue.”
“This debate is essential for business and civic leaders, politicians, students, educationalists, economists and anyone who has a general interest in the future growth and prosperity of Northern Ireland. We are delighted to say that it is free of charge but that numbers are limited so we would encourage people to register their interest at their earliest convenience.”
‘Brexit- The Big Debate’ will take place in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry from 9am-1pm on Thursday 29 October. To book your free place please contact orla@newry.com
The Speakers
Dáithí O’Ceallaigh
Dáithí O’Ceallaigh is the former Director General of the Institute of International and European Affairs where he now sits as a trustee. Mr O’Ceallaigh recently co-wrote ‘Britain and Europe: The Endgame — An Irish Perspective’ which offers a comprehensive assessment of the prospect of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, drawing on his knowledge and experience having served as the Irish Ambassador to the United Kingdom from 2001 to 2007. Dáithí O’Ceallaigh currently chairs the Press Council of Ireland.
Bertie Ahern
Bertie Ahern served as Taoiseach of Ireland between 1997 and 2008. In 2004 he held the office of President of the European Council during which European leaders agreed a new European Constitution and appointment of Commissioners. The agreement on the constitution was hailed as a huge success for the Irish Presidency but it is that same Constitution which the British Government now wants reformed if they are not to leave the EU. Mr Ahern also played a central role in the negotiations that led to power sharing arrangements in Northern Ireland through the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement and he continues to play a role as international peacekeeper.
Pat McFadden MP
Pat McFadden is the Labour Party’s Shadow Minister for Europe. In 2005 he was elected as MP for Wolverhampton South East. Prior to being elected to Westminster, Pat worked as a researcher for Donald Dewar MP, a speechwriter for John Smith MP and an adviser to Tony Blair, both in opposition and later in 10 Downing Street. He has held a number of Government posts including Parliamentary Under Secretary at the cabinet Office and Minister of State in the Department of Business Innovation and Skills.
Alex Kane is a weekly columnist for both the News Letter and the Irish News as well as a regular contributor to the Belfast Telegraph and a range of other publications. He appears on political programmes for the BBC, UTV and RTE and is an acknowledged authority on NI politics generally and unionism in particular. A former Director of Communications for the Ulster Unionist Party, he has also been a teacher and assistant to Enoch Powell. Away from politics his great passions are films and Sherlock Holmes and he has written extensively on both subjects. He lives in Belfast with his partner, their two daughters, a dog, a cat, a squirrel, a magpie, a family of hedgehogs and two bats named Holmes and Watson. He is not known for his Pollyanna outlook on life!
Dr Len O' Hagan CBE DL, Chairman of NI Water
Dr Len O'Hagan, Chairman of NI Water since April 2015 is responsible for overseeing Northern Ireland's water and sewerage operations. Dr O'Hagan took the helm of Northern Ireland's most profitable economic asset back in 2006 - serving two terms as chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners. He previously held board positions with companies including Fitzwilton plc, is a former chair of the Mac board, and currently a non-executive director of Independent News & Media. Dr O'Hagan was given an honorary degree by the University of Ulster in 2011, before being awarded a CBE in 2013.
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