Patton Construction on Excellence Awards shortlist

BALLYMENA firm Patton Construction is among 30 companies preparing to battle it out for the top title in this year's Construction Excellence Awards.

The Construction Employers' Federation (CEF), which runs the annual event, unveiled the shortlist last Wednesday and last year's winner, Ballymena's Patton Construction, is in the running for two categories.

Over 100 entries were received for the 14 main categories. There is also an Achieving Excellence in Partnering Award and the overall award for Most Outstanding Entry.

The organisers said the standard of projects had increased and the total number of entries had remained steady, despite the continued fall in construction activity over the past year.

John Armstrong, CEF managing director, explained: "Against the harsh backdrop of mass layoffs, wage cuts and business closures, it is heartening to see that so many companies have remained steadfast in their pursuit of excellence.

"In difficult times, true quality shines through. These awards really highlight the positive impact of high quality construction on our society and our economy.

"Each project creates employment directly and indirectly, each pound spent multiplies throughout the local economy and each completed house, road or school benefits our society."

Mr Armstrong said the finalists have shown a great commitment to young people through apprenticeships and to the preservation of our built heritage.

The competition was first launched in 1999 and attracts a range of construction companies from across Northern Ireland.

Finalists will be showcased at a special event in September at Wellington Presbyterian Church, Ballymena - a 2009 overall award winner.

Winners will be announced at a gala evening in the Culloden Hotel on October 7.