Contractor: CJ Callan Construction Ltd & LMETB
Client: Louth and Meath Education and Training Board
Project: AMTCE (Advanced Manufacturing and Training Centre of Excellence)
Design Team: Oppermann Associates (Architects); Patrick McCaul Environmental Consulting Engineers Ltd, Hanley Pepper Consulting Engineers (Civil & Structural)
The AMTCE (Advanced Manufacturing and Training Centre of Excellence) was set up in 2021 through funding from Enterprise Ireland and SOLAS in response to the growing need to address the diverse skills and training needs of the Irish Manufacturing Sector. This refurbishment project consisted of the fitout of the existing two storey office building (2,118 square meters) to create a bespoke training centre of excellence for electrical skills training, in the north east.
On behalf of Louth and Meath Education and Training Board, CJ Callan Construction undertook this project to renovate the 55,000 square foot building within the Zerox Technology Park as the initial phase of the larger endeavour to establish the specialised training facilities.
An initial comprehensive evaluation of the building’s structure was carried out, followed by selective demolition and refurbishment to address the needs identified by the client and Design Team at Oppermann Architects. Challenges included maintaining uninterrupted access for ongoing training activities throughout the refurb timeline.
A primary focus of the renovation was enhancing safety measures, including the implementation of proper compartmentation, dedicated escape routes, and passive fire protection, along with the integration of mechanical, electrical, and life safety systems. The internal spatial configuration was reimagined to accommodate the specialised training centre and requirements for the courses being delivered.
CJ Callan Construction employed various modern construction methodologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D Modelling, and principles of the Circular Economy, along with fostering extensive collaboration among stakeholders including the client, design team, subcontractors, and supply chain partners.
CJ Callan Construction were proud to be involved in this significant project for the North-East region, recognising the enduring benefits it will bring to the community. Their ties to the locality facilitated the assembly of a committed team capable of meeting the exacting standards set forth by the client and design team.
The fitout is a reflection of the innovative training programmes in the centre. LMETB sought to change their image to provide teaching environments which were modern, bright, progressive and had a “wow!” factor. They wanted learners to have an enhanced experience, be proud to be attending that particular college and in turn talk about it to other students / potential students. LMETB sought to make electrical training much more appealing and desirable than hitherto.
