Castlederg firm scoops top honours at NI construction awards

A CASTLEDERG construction firm has been honoured for its revival of Ebrington Barracks at the Northern Ireland Master Builder Awards.

The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) unveiled the winners at a ceremony in the Malone Hotel, Belfast, on Friday, celebrating the North’s most inspiring construction projects and the teams behind them.

McKelvey Construction Ltd, based in Castlederg, was named ‘Outstanding Builder of the Year’ for its work transforming Ebrington Barracks in Derry into a four-star luxury hotel.

The firm also picked up the award for ‘Commercial or Public Sector Project’.

Their redevelopment of the military site was hailed as ‘a triumph of craftsmanship, heritage preservation and vision’.

The multi-million-pound project breathed new life into five derelict listed buildings, including the landmark clocktower, blending meticulous conservation with high-end design.

The result was a showpiece destination complete with 90 ensuite rooms, a spa, pool, bars, and conference facilities.

Behind the polished finish lies outstanding leadership. From a hand-built wooden model of the hotel now on display, to hiring six apprentices during the build and creating more than 100 full-time hospitality jobs post-completion, the judges praised the firm’s community impact.

Judge Peter Keates described it as, “A landmark build that pairs authenticity with commercial ambition.”

Fellow judge Astrid Madsen added, “This shows what local builders can achieve with the right leadership and partnership.”

Also flying the flag for Castlederg was Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd, which was named ‘Business of the Year’.

In just two years, the firm has grown its turnover from £32m to £51m, expanded its team from 70 to 110 staff, and maintained one of the highest retention rates in the industry.

Alongside its commercial success, Lowry has invested heavily in staff development, including NEC training for workers and subcontractors, mental health initiatives, and team-building events such as a stunt-driving course. Its diversity drive has increased under-25 and female representation across all departments.

Judge Astrid Madsen said, “They’re building more than homes – they’re building a company people want to work for.”

Elsewhere in Tyrone, Dungannon firm Alskea Ltd received the ‘Large Renovation Project’ award for its work rejuvenating the former Belvoir Park Hospital in Belfast.

The 100-year-old listed building had lain abandoned until Alskea Ltd took on the challenge of restoring – rather than demolishing – the site. Their sensitive conversion delivered 29 luxury apartments, retaining key features such as sandstone emblems, terrazzo flooring and the original clocktower.