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This year’s St. Patrick’s Day had a different kind of resonance—quieter, perhaps, but no less significant. For decades, the day has served as a powerful expression of Irish identity, especially in America. It’s a sea of green, a celebration of heritage, and for many, a reaffirmation of a cultural and political bond with Ireland’s nationalist […]

Comparing the planning and building times for major infrastructure projects in China and the UK reveals stark differences, driven by distinct political systems, planning processes, and approaches to development. While comprehensive, project-by-project data is limited, evidence from key examples and broader trends highlights these disparities. In China, major infrastructure projects are often completed at an […]

Wealth creation is based on the above simple premis. It has been lost. It has become a hand out, not a hand up mentality. Over the past decade, the UK, including Northern Ireland, has indeed experienced a prolonged period of austerity measures, largely stemming from efforts to reduce public spending and address fiscal deficits following […]

  Saint Patrick’s Day is a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland,[10] Northern Ireland,[11] the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador (for provincial government employees), and the British Overseas Territory of Montserrat. It is also widely celebrated by the Irish diaspora around the world, especially in Great Britain, Canada, the United States, Argentina, Australia, […]

Building a Sustainable Future: The Bright Path Forward with FP McCann Ltd In the ever-evolving world of construction and manufacturing, one company stands out as a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and growth—FP McCann Ltd. With a rich history rooted in excellence and a forward-thinking approach to meeting modern challenges, FP McCann is not just shaping […]

Below is an action list for reforming the public sector in Northern Ireland, including both government departments and local councils, drawing inspiration from the general approach of the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The DOGE, as proposed, aims to reduce inefficiencies, cut costs, and streamline operations across federal agencies, with a focus on eliminating […]

Determining a direct correlation between Northern Ireland Executive decision-making and upcoming elections, specifically the 2027 Northern Ireland Assembly election, to maximize votes for certain political parties is inherently speculative, as it involves predicting future political strategies and voter behavior. However, historical patterns, current political dynamics, and the strategic use of public policy and infrastructure projects […]

To ensure the effective use of the £3.3 billion funding package, address potential risks, and promote long-term fiscal and public service sustainability in Northern Ireland, the following critical action points are recommended. These are prioritized based on urgency, impact, and feasibility, drawing from the analysis of the funding package and broader fiscal context. 1. Develop […]

The £3.3 billion funding package for Northern Ireland, announced by the UK Government in February 2024, was part of a financial settlement to support the restoration of the Northern Ireland Executive and stabilize public services. Below is a detailed breakdown of where this funding is, how it is being spent, and whether any monies have […]

As of March 2025, several significant construction projects are planned to commence in Northern Ireland during the 2026/2027 period. Here are the top 10 projects: These projects reflect Northern Ireland’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, supporting sustainable energy initiatives, and boosting economic development in the coming years.

As of March 12, 2025, here are some of the top construction projects currently underway in Northern Ireland: These projects highlight the ongoing development and investment in Northern Ireland’s infrastructure, education, and residential sectors.

Tariffs can significantly impact the building industry in Northern Ireland by increasing costs on key imported materials, disrupting supply chains, and making some projects less viable. Since NI is subject to unique trading arrangements under the Northern Ireland Protocol/Windsor Framework, tariffs can vary depending on whether goods come from GB, the EU, or third countries […]

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill aims to expedite planning decisions for over 150 major infrastructure projects within the current parliamentary term. While the government has not publicly disclosed a definitive list of these projects, several high-profile initiatives are likely to benefit from the proposed reforms. Based on recent announcements and strategic priorities, the following projects […]

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 […]

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: […]

Below an analyze of the tender cost breakdown from the June 12, 2024 tender submission, going through each major element and discussing the rates: 2C. Roof 2E. External Walls 2F. Windows/External Doors 2G. Internal Walls/Partitions 2H. Internal Doors OVERALL ANALYSIS: The costs appear to represent reasonable value given the project constraints and specifications, though careful […]

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Within the Public Sector, as BoQ making a common sense comeback in lieu of Activity Schedules, here are the key points for architects to understand what a Quantity Surveyor (QS) does when preparing a Bill of Quantities (BoQ) for tendering. Such understanding has been lost in recent years where D&B the favourite route. Not any […]

NI Schools’ delegated budgets included £77 million for estate-related funding, but only £5 million was actually spent on maintenance The report notes this discrepancy but doesn’t fully explain where the £72 million went. Here’s what we know from the report specifically (from paragraph 1.17): “These figures do not include estate related funding paid directly to […]

Below a summary of the key points from the audit report on Managing the Schools’ Estate in Northern Ireland: Key Findings from the 2024 Audit Report The Northern Ireland Audit Office (NIAO) has released a comprehensive report examining how the Department of Education manages its £4.6 billion schools estate, which comprises over 1,100 schools serving […]

Here’s a one-page executive summary of the key points from the BCIS December 2024 Quarterly Briefing: Market Overview & Outlook Key Cost Drivers Sector Performance Key Risks Economic Context

Market Analysis & Strategic Response A new housing supply strategy The Department for Communities’ Minister announced the launch of The Housing Supply Strategy 2024 – 2039, in a statement to the Assembly on 9 December 2024. The strategy, which was approved by the Executive on 5 December 2024, provides a 15-year framework for the development […]

BRIEFING NOTE: Strangford Lough Crossing Infrastructure AssessmentRef: UK National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) Second Assessment 2023 STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT The proposed Strangford Lough crossing aligns closely with key NIC strategic priorities: DEMOGRAPHIC & ECONOMIC CASE Census data demonstrates strong demographic case: INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK The NIC calls for: ACTION POINTS FOR NI EXECUTIVE & POLITICIANS: RECOMMENDATION: Based on […]

The Procurement Act 2023 is currently expected to come into force on 24 February 2025, and equally apply in Northern Ireland. A few important points about the transition: This delayed implementation appears designed to give contracting authorities and suppliers adequate time to prepare for the significant changes the new regime will bring. The documents note […]

Labour Government are keen to undertake infrastructure works during their 5 year term. Problem is delivery. Here is a summary of the key points from the National Infrastructure Commission report into UK construction, from a quantity surveying perspective: From a QS perspective, this report underscores the need for early involvement in projects, strong cost management […]

a quest to see if alternative crossing possible

kevinbarryqs.com are improving service delivery by gradually providing all clients with password secure online access to their scheme details, news and progress. Professional client information updates are crucial for businesses to maintain strong relationships and provide optimal service. Here are key aspects:

With a request for local GAA pitch side sponsorship banner, decided to refresh and refocus logo brand. Time to make use of the name. Clicking on the address above still takes you to QUINTIN QS etc. Hopefully logo appears pitchside in Ballygalget GAC soon. For those who don’t know, my late father was a lighthouse […]

A surprising question asked today. What is the purpose of a Pre Tender Estimate? A pre-tender estimate in construction serves several important purposes: It’s important to note that pre-tender estimates are preliminary and may not reflect the actual final cost of the project. They are based on various assumptions and historical data, which can change […]

QUINTIN QS is providing clients with a protected dedicated page on the www.kevinbarryqs.com (quintinqs.com) website which provides a regular updated one page executive summary of all jobs where involved in our QS capacity. Therefore from any device or PC, clients able to simply monitor status of jobs in terms of estimates, valuations, pending final accounts […]

Selecting bidders who are competitive is crucial in any procurement process, as it ensures that the organization obtains the best value for money while fostering a fair and transparent bidding environment. Here are some key reasons why selecting competitive bidders is important: While selecting competitive bidders may require more time and effort upfront, the potential […]

Successfully registered with CAA with Operator & Flyer ID Drone registration is an important requirement in the United Kingdom for operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, in a responsible and safe manner. Here are some key points about the importance of drone registration in the UK: By complying with drone registration requirements, […]

No matter what is being built, effective control of all information, whether Pre or Post Contract, can ensure minimal risk of not reaching the end point effectively and efficiently. In JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) contracts, it is generally recommended that all design team information be issued through the Contract Administrator. Here are some key reasons […]

Update: 28-03-2024….as Spring of 2024, we are offering 20% discount on coupons for digitizing/estimates/pricing, until 1st August 2024. Two hurdles emerging… 1….Planning approval. We are advising clients to avail of our QS services and ensure their planning applications are affordable before lodging plans. 2….On reach build stage, mortgage companies are limiting their offers, not withstanding […]

The new cost is estimated as £24m, which is almost double the cost estimate of £12.9m from 2020. Preferred Option 3A as above. Subject to procurement and further funding, due for opening in 2027.

When it comes to building a house in the UK in a cost-effective manner, there are several materials to consider: It’s important to note that material costs can vary significantly depending on your location, the size of the project, and other factors. Additionally, you should consider the long-term energy efficiency and maintenance costs when evaluating […]

To gain the maximum internal floor area in the most cost-effective manner, the ideal height and shape of a house would be a two-story rectangular or square structure with a simple gable or hip roof. Here’s why this configuration is considered the most cost-effective for maximizing floor area: By combining a two-story height with a […]

Primarily as backup, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet installed in the event of powerful Fibrus fibre internet going offline due to overhead cable final delivery of fibre broadband in rural areas and risk of damage to cabling. Such is the need for zero business interruption, QUINTIN QS had to enact Plan B. Installer INit Group […]

St Mary’s Church, Belfast are undertaking refurbishment work adjacent to the existing church to provide additional office and function space. Trocaire are relocating from their current location elsewhere in Belfast. Tenders due out March 2024 subject to client approval to proceed. Update: 5th March 2024 – Stage 4 Tender documents due for completion by Friday […]

  Clients should avoid promises and declarations from builders in the absence of transparent competitive tendering, properly carried out by an independent QS. On a recent scheme, approx £20,000 variance between the ‘friendly’ builder quoting direct to client and actual lowest tender, which turned out not to be from the ‘friendly’ builder ! A recent […]

On the island of Ireland, North and South, to help QUANTUM ALL ISLAND registered local businesses,  post Brexit, and with re-start of NI Executive pending, QUINTIN QS has expanded the use of QUANTUM ALL ISLAND to assist all businesses to reach and expand their customer base. We are rolling out the addition of advertising / […]

Our sincere gratitude to past clients for entrusting us with their business. We hope to provide them with more satisfactory service and opportunities in the coming year 2024. And very grateful for new clients also.

Update: 23rd December 2023 Preparation works continuing. Power on, and sales floor lighting commissioning looks complete. Envisage a New Year push to fit out floor with shelving, tills, product etc. Fair play to Asda, not wasting time. Orginal post: Asda showing their commitment to Downpatrick by erecting a temporary store. Not just a click and […]

At this special time of year, we give thanks for clients (Public/Private/Developers/Builders/Sub-contractors) who have availed of our QS services. We would like to express our sincerest appreciation for the trust you have placed in us and best wishes for the holidays. We continue to provide QS services over the holiday period, as needs arise.

‘Change of banking details’ fraud – where fraudsters impersonate legitimate suppliers in order to divert payments of invoices into their own accounts – continues to be prevalent and is becoming increasingly sophisticated. Companies need to be aware of this scam and how to implement the proper controls to prevent themselves becoming duped. How does it […]

Where thinking of building or repairing anything in the built environment, we are offering clients an insight to the QS world. A quantity surveyor is a professional in the construction industry who manages costs and financial aspects of construction projects. They typically work on estimating and controlling project costs, preparing budgets, and ensuring that projects […]

QUINTIN QS offering to assist business owners in claims preparation as result of recent business interruption. Ring/text/WhatsApp on 07989 535225; or email queries to mail@kevinbarryqs.com

Causeway Technologies provide our software technology and information solutions to various aspects of construction, including NEC Contracts. Are you looking for more information on NEC? Causeway have created a brand-new content hub full of blogs, webinars and guides covering all things NEC which you can access here. NEC is designed to encourage collaboration with a […]

When a new build property is constructed, lenders will require a new homes warranty, such as the National House Building Council (NHBC) to be put in place on completion of the property. If a warranty is not available, then a Professional Consultant Certificate can be acceptable to lenders instead. In issuing these PCC documents, supporting confirmation of […]

UK wide: The Environment Act 2021 introduced significant changes for the construction industry, and it will also mean additional considerations for lenders choosing to fund construction projects. From January 2024, the new ‘Biodiversity Net Gain’ (BNG) requirements will apply to projects requiring planning permission with limited exemptions for small sites, which are expected to require […]

Clients should stipulate their budgets to designers and make them legally responsible for exceeding such budget. A recent interesting legal judgement on Architects designing to a budget and the legal ramifications. Tap on top image for link to legal article. Elaborate designs drawn up & planning applications continue to be made, irrespective of whether clients […]

QUINTIN QS upgraded software for BIM compatability and adopting latest version of Causeway Suite of software which includes CADmeasure,  to enhance services to clients. If you require Price Lists or Bills of Quantities prepared, in CITE, Excel or other formats, please contact Kevin Barry (mail@kevinbarryqs.com) or WhatsApp on 07989535225 for quotation; Currently working for public/private […]

Update: Internet restored 3.50pm on 9th June 2023. Fundamental problem remains as cabling should be placed underground at same location due constraints on headroom above. Action on this matter requested through the appropriate responsible authorities. Apologies Clients. On the evening of 2nd June 2023, due to foreseen circumstances, agricultural equipment has snapped the BT Openreach/Fibrus […]

Update:24-05-2023 Little change since Nov 2017. When Architects/Contract Administrators issue Pricing Schedules as part of Drawings and Spec Tender issue, at the very least, tender assessment should be carried out on the basis of comparing each contractors Pricing Schedule. On a recent scheme, only one contractor submitted Pricing Schedule fully completed and recommendation was made […]

In conjunction with builder Brendan Turley from Downpatrick, Beat Carnival undertaking certain overdue alterations over the next 5 weeks, working carefully around the team as they prepare for the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Belfast 2023.

Negotiated the refurbishment of a period property in Myrtlefield Park, Belfast and phase 1 to commence within next few weeks. As energy efficiency chart shows, a significant amount of work required to improve energy efficiency and within scope of works. A popular road, in the company of some well known builders, with their signs currently […]

As the above image shows, no matter what currency, $6 or £6 buys you less in an inflationary period. With building works, same principle applies. Your budget shall build you less m2/ft2 today, as compared to same period last year and due to continue during 23/24, albeit at a slowing rate of increase. If planning […]

The BCIS have announced thier predictions for the year ahead and noted below. The construction industry starts the year in a strong position. But 2023 will be a tough year for some sectors of the industry as demand falls. However, it has proved itself resilient to many challenges over the past few years. What we’re […]

Increased efficiencies and productivity are the words being quoted regularly now, to try and counter the inflationary environment in which we now must be accustomed to. In our area of QS service provision, we have to try and streamline our services and delivery processes. Namely, a first for online QS Services, and to offer fixed […]

A FORMER church in north Belfast is to be demolished, more than a decade after it was closed due to leaks in the roof. The Church of the Resurrection on Cavehill Road was closed in 2008, 30 years after it first opened. Holy Family Parish launched a consultation on what should happen to the site. […]

Not every business out there serves our necessities. Some of them also serve our entertainment needs and luxurious choices. non essential businesses are those entities that help us relax from our mundane lives. During the pandemic lockdown, these businesses were the first to close and will be the last to reopen.  Now, with Cost of […]

In the North of Ireland, 15 years ago, people were rushing to build elaborate, five or six-bedroom houses in the country, fueled in part by the easy credit and the desire for country living. Many poured thousands into these spacious homes, planning to live out their golden years in designer properties with all the bells […]

Transparent procurement strategies attract quality bids, secure best value prices and deliver better outcomes. Transparency needs to be hardwired into procurement as a lack of it can result in diminished due diligence, rushed solutions and poor-quality tenders, and may lead to several problems downstream in implementation. The importance of transparency is highlighted in the UK Construction Playbook, which […]

Attached is a copy of the installation guide issued by Fibrus to indicate how connections made. As active rollout underway in the Upper Ards area, sharing this information. Any queries on installation should be made directly to Fibrus representatives.

At certain times, undertaking construction works large or small, Negotiation can be considered a more viable option where certain conditions are evident. With end of COVID-19 and the outworking of Brexit, Westminster woes,  and no local Executive, strange times prevail. Many factors determined the completion of a project, based around timing, cost and quality. Where […]

Hi, Price Increase for all Products Thank you for your ongoing business and support during these challenging times. As a business over the last year we have absorbed significant costs in raw materials and manufacturing.  Many other manufacturers have increased prices throughout the year. We decided against this to allow our customers stability but more […]

The report provides a detailed comparison and assessment of housing taxes across OECD countries. It shows that many countries still levy recurrent property taxes on outdated property values, even though this reduces revenue and fairness. A number of countries continue to rely heavily on transaction taxes, despite their potential impact on residential and labour mobility. […]

Recently, 3 contractors in competitive bidding, on a NI scheme < £100,000 – with BQ where scope of works measured and specified. Range between quotes was approx £28,000; lowest tender was 55% saving on 3rd place tender, and 42% saving on 2nd place tender. There are benefits to procuring work in a simple, but fully […]

If requiring a canopy for your scheme, refer to above brochure, available to download.

In recent months, Architects and Clients inquiring about the rising cost of materials and labour on construction projects. Available for download are documents giving some background information. Where the price risk transferred 100% towards the tendering contractor, their tendered quotation has to include for all future price changes and resulting in overall higher tenders being […]

During the American Revolution, the legal separation of the thirteen colonies from Great Britain in 1776 actually occurred on July 2, when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence that had been proposed in June by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia declaring the United States independent from Great Britain’s rule.[5][6] After voting for independence, Congress turned its attention to the Declaration of Independence, a […]

Another call this evening to assess a runaway builder. Can people be reminded not to pay out for materials in advance ! Employ someone to oversee your significant expenditure….it’s worth the fee. Update further…..

Following on from COVID-19 and the cost of living shock through which we are living and the changing geopolitical outlook with the invasion of Ukranine, now is the time to seriously switch tracks and reduce dependancy on paying dearly for what were once abundant natural resources. Peoples incomes are best described as finite, and therefore, […]

Background In the late 1960s, the Northern Ireland Government established a Committee chaired by the Rt Hon R W B McConnell to “examine the existing law for the general regulation of building in Northern Ireland in the light of recent changes in Scotland, England and Wales”. The Committee’s report, published in March 1970, recommended that […]

Evidence suggests that NI DfC assistance to eligible homeowners/consumers around the 10th March 2022 was wiped out by oil suppliers increasing prices thus the homeowner/consumer did not benefit from such assistance. As DfC monies issued, oil cost rose to £1.30/litre cost on 10th March 2022 and today is £0.89/litre thus indicating that oil prices were […]

From a industrial/construction point of view, we are now witnessing a new economic iron curtain between the West & Russia, and the world does not know which side China is on, as fence sitting may not be sustainable nor desirable. The bottom line is price rises. Inflation over the reminder of the decade is foremost […]

As aluminium widely used throughout the construction and allied industries, signs of supply pressures have been building, and with events in Ukraine, manufacturing capacity being directly affected. Future supply availability and higher costs shall feed through to commercial and domestic schemes.

From April 2022, all construction and related industries as listed below, not able to continue using red diesel in their manufacturing processes. A further upward, indirect cost pressure to be passed down the customer chain. Which industries will be affected by red diesel changes? There are many industries which are set to lose out and […]