The importance of civil engineering in shaping the Isle of Man’s infrastructure is being highlighted as part of a nationwide campaign.
‘This is Civil Engineering’ banners will be appearing at the sites of major local projects to raise public awareness and encourage more people to consider a
career in the industry.
The Department of Infrastructure is promoting the initiative in conjunction with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
The campaign underlines the contribution made by civil engineering in developing and improving the services and facilities the public use on a daily basis.
Every time a person turns on a tap, switches on a light, flushes a toilet, catches a train or crosses a road they are benefiting from civil engineering.
‘This is Civil Engineering’ aims to help people understand the vast scope of civil engineering activity. It is also a gateway for interacting with people who may be interested in pursuing civil engineering as a career.
The Department of Infrastructure plays a central role in overseeing civil engineering programmes worth millions of pounds in the Isle of Man.
Current projects include the regeneration of the Isle of Man’s main retail zones, the refurbishment of Douglas Promenade and a number of high-profile highway schemes.
Another recent example is the stabilisation of a section of road at Sulby Glen Road, carried out in conjunction with the Department’s sub-contractor JCK Ltd. This complex engineering project involved the use of more than 50 soil nails, 24 mini piles and 300 square metres of rock netting, as well as the resurfacing of the carriageway.
Gary Saunders, Construction Manager at DoI’s Highways Services Division, said:
‘We are delighted to support the efforts of the Institution of Civil Engineers in promoting a greater understanding of our industry. Civil engineers help to shape the world around us. In the Isle of Man, the Department is responsible for delivering a high quality infrastructure that allows the Island to attract new investment and secure future economic growth. While our primary civil engineering activities relate to highway construction, we do undertake a broad spectrum of work.’
He added:
‘The ICE campaign is also helping to promote civil engineering as an
exciting career for future generations and we would be pleased to help young people in the Isle of Man gain a deeper understanding of the industry.’
‘This is Civil Engineering’ banners are currently displayed at sites in Strand Street, Douglas and Station Road, Port Erin. They will also appear at other sites, including the next phase of the Douglas Promenade works.
Alan Butler, Regional Director ICE NW, said:
‘It’s fantastic to see the campaign taking hold in the Isle of Man. The aim is very simple; to make more people aware of what civil engineering is about and widen their understanding about how it impacts on everyday life.’
For further information visit the ICE website at http://www.ice.org.uk/
