Garden market worth €370m
New housing, private gardens, infrastructure (roads, public works) and business/retail parks have contributed to a doubling in the value of services in the private sector in the last five years to €194 million.
Public sector purchasing of landscape services accounts for €106 million followed by the golf sector at €70 million. Overall, the landscape sector employs some 7,500 people.
Over the next five years, it is predicated that the main growth areas will be private gardens and corporate projects.
Minister of State Noel Treacy, who presented the awards, said the ALCI and Bord Glas are heightening public awareness of quality standards within the landscape industry.
They were also helping to ensure the continued development and success of the natural environment and the landscape industry in Ireland.
Peter O’Brien and Sons, a Dublin-based company, won the National Award 2003 for landscaping at East Point Business Park, Dublin.
Bord Glas also announced the start of its landscape quality Programme for 2004.
It will promote best practice and procedures.
Participants will receive a comprehensive audit from an independent consultant and can use the achievement of a Quality Award in promoting their businesses.
Paul Dowling, ALCI chairman (Southern Region) said the purpose of the annual awards scheme is to reward the highest standards in design, construction and maintenance in the landscape industry.
“The standard of landscape construction and design is continually improving and these national awards showcase our industry and recognise its valuable contribution to enhancing the environment,” he said.
