Walls McKeon Joint Venture wins Contractor Education Project of the Year at Irish Construction Industry Awards 2025

Distinguished for its precision and operational discipline last year, Walls McKeon Joint Venture won Contractor Education Project of the Year at the Irish Construction Industry Awards 2025 for The Polaris Building at Dublin City University. The project demonstrates how contractors can deliver complex educational facilities while maintaining full campus operations, balancing construction demands with academic continuity.

The Polaris Building represents a significant addition to DCU's research and teaching infrastructure, requiring careful coordination to minimise disruption across a functioning university environment. Walls McKeon Joint Venture navigated logistical constraints, student foot traffic, and academic schedules while maintaining stringent quality and safety standards.

Judges highlighted the project's execution quality and stakeholder impact.

"This entrant was recognised for delivering the Polaris Building at Dublin City University with precision and professionalism. Navigating the challenges of a live university site, they demonstrated exceptional capability and commitment throughout. The building had a clear and positive impact, reflected in the strong testimonials provided, and stood out as a testament to the team's skill, focus, and dedication," the panel said.

This achievement reflects rising expectations across the Irish Construction Industry Awards, where education projects demand contractors master complex stakeholder coordination alongside technical excellence. As Irish universities expand facilities to meet growing research and enrollment demands, the ability to deliver transformative buildings without compromising campus life becomes a defining competitive advantage.

Carrying forward momentum from 2025, the 2026 awards will challenge contractors to demonstrate innovation in educational delivery, stakeholder management, and sustainable construction practices. Which teams will establish the next benchmark for educational infrastructure excellence?

For past winners, category details, and updates, visit the official Irish Construction Industry Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive insights and coverage from Ireland's construction sector.