NEWRY construction firm Felix O’Hare annexed the top prize at the 2022 CEF Excellence Awards for its work on building the new £70 million PwC headquarters in the centre of Belfast.
The judges deemed the Merchant Square project - the complete transformation of three existing buildings formerly known as Ferguson, Roysten and Oyster Houses to create 210,000 sq/ft of grade A office space right in the centre of Belfast - was worthy of the overall award.
They remarked that Felix O'Hare "immersed themselves in the project, showcasing their skills, expertise and team-working approach to successfully deliver for their client".
The construction awards were returning to an in-person event for the first time in three years, and 550 people from across the sector gathered at the Crowne Plaza Hotel to celebrate the achievements of the industry and its people.
Mark Spence, managing director of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), said: “Given the extremely tight city centre location, retention of existing buildings whilst constructing additional new floor space, their approach to sustainable construction and positive working relationship with their end tenant, Felix O’Hare is a very worthy winner of this year’s Overall Award for Merchant Square.
“The judges also commented on the excellent relationships Felix O’Hare had with their entire supply chain and how this, through their skills, expertise and team-working, led to the delivery of a landmark project in the heart of the city centre.”
Mr Spence also commended each of the 23 category award winners for their success – particularly those in the Construction Person of the Year categories which focus on the individuals who have either given substantial years of commitment to the industry or are just starting out on their journey as an apprentice.
He added: “Building on their introduction to our awards last year, the judges have again rewarded a number of people in the industry for their talent, skills and leadership - be they long-standing or emerging.
“Our sector is built on their crucial contribution and Shannon Doherty (Mascott Construction), Fergal McAliskey (Lotus Homes) and Donal McGloin (Tracey Brothers) should be rightly proud of the recognition they have achieved.
“We have also, for the first time, introduced a Lifetime Achievement Award, established to recognise the individual that best exemplifies dedication to the pursuit of excellence and leadership in construction throughout their career.
“Here, we are delighted to recognise the career of Desmond Scott, founder of Woodvale Construction, whose outstanding commitment and longevity in the construction industry is testament to his core values, which are rooted in family and community.
“He also has a keen sense of corporate social responsibility providing a lifetime of support to local charity and community groups.
“Above all else, Desmond has provided leadership that has carried his team through the many challenges faced by the construction industry over the last 42 years, and it is this strength, drive and ability to inspire that makes him a worthy recipient for the Lifetime Achievement Award.”
