Coffey has been shortlisted in four categories at the Irish Construction Excellence (ICE) Awards 2026, recognising the company’s continued focus on engineering innovation, sustainable delivery, and high-performing project teams across Ireland.
The ICE Awards remain one of the most respected honours in the Irish construction sector, highlighting best practice in project delivery, design, technology, and leadership. Being named a finalist in multiple categories reflects the depth of expertise across Coffey’s teams and the impact of our work on critical national infrastructure.
Shortlisted Categories
Innovation in Construction (€20M–€200M) – Enfield WwTP
The Enfield Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion showcases a forward-thinking approach to environmental engineering. Innovation on this project is defined not by new technologies alone, but by the strategic integration of nature-based solutions (NBS) with advanced treatment processes.
Key achievements include:
- A treatment facility designed to operate in harmony with its natural surroundings
- Full regulatory compliance for all final effluent
- Enhanced carbon capture and a significantly reduced carbon footprint
- Major CapEx and OpEx savings through low-energy, low-maintenance design
- Use of increased site area to support biodiversity and wildlife habitats
The project demonstrates how combining modern engineering with natural systems can deliver long-term environmental, economic, and operational benefits.
Civil Engineering (Up to €10M) – Enfield WwTP Expansion
This civil engineering upgrade transformed a constrained and non-compliant 3,500 PE facility into a resilient, low‑carbon wastewater treatment asset serving 6,200 PE, with capacity to expand to 9,500 PE.
Delivered on a demanding Design & Build contract, the project stands out for:
- Integration of 11 Sludge Drying Reed Beds, eliminating mechanical dewatering and chemical use
- Annual savings of 48,750 kWh and removal of 155 HGV sludge journeys
- Successful delivery of a 144‑week O&M mandate on a live facility
- Use of trenchless river crossings to protect sensitive ecological habitats
- Zero Lost Time Incidents (LTIs) throughout the programme
- A fully flood‑resilient design with 1-in-1,000‑year protection
Enfield now serves as a benchmark for environmentally aligned wastewater treatment infrastructure in Ireland.
Construction Project Manager – Daire Kiernan
Daire Kiernan is shortlisted for demonstrating exceptional leadership across the Uisce Éireann CDS Midlands Framework and the Chapel Road Upgrade Project.
Over four years, Daire has:
- Delivered more than 2,000 water and wastewater connections across multiple counties
- Managed high‑risk, live environments with a strong safety-first approach
- Implemented Lean and Last Planner systems to strengthen programme certainty
- Introduced engineered trench supports, temporary works controls, and digital reporting tools
- Advanced the use of horizontal directional drilling, reducing public disruption and improving safety
- Led teams whose communication and delivery standards have received multiple awards
Daire’s leadership style; focused on collaboration, clarity, and continuous improvement – sets a high standard for community‑focused infrastructure delivery.
Public Realm – Ringaskiddy Active Travel and Urban Realm
In collaboration with Cork County Council
The Ringaskiddy Active Travel and Urban Realm Project represents a significant reinvestment in the village’s future. Once primarily a point of transit, Ringaskiddy is now being reshaped as a welcoming gateway to Cork and a destination in its own right.
The project delivers:
- A high‑quality public realm at the ferry terminal arrival point
- Safe and accessible active‑travel links for walking and cycling
- Stronger connections to key amenities including the beach and Haulbowline
- A revitalised village centre that supports local services and community activity
This renewed built environment enhances safety, accessibility, and vibrancy – laying the foundation for Ringaskiddy to flourish as both a community hub and a visitor destination.
Celebrating Industry Excellence
The winners of the ICE Awards 2026 will be announced on Thursday, 28 May 2026, at the Convention Centre Dublin. The event provides an opportunity to recognise the exceptional work of teams across the construction industry and celebrate the achievements of this year’s finalists.
Coffey remains committed to delivering sustainable, resilient infrastructure that supports communities and protects the environment. The three finalist nominations reflect our ongoing dedication to quality, innovation, and responsible engineering.
A sincere thank you to our clients, project partners, and the entire Coffey team whose expertise and commitment made these achievements possible. Congratulations to all finalists. Best of luck at the upcoming gala.
