PSBJ november 20 by Red Hut Media Ltd

Public Sector Build Journal November 2020

GOING THE SOCIAL DISTANCE Why green spaces are becoming invaluable in society during the current pandemic

Healthcare

Education

Leisure

psbjmagazine.com

Issue 99

How offsite has kept the country building in the current climate

Housing

Can digitalising school facilities maximise efficiency in response to COVID?

What the Building Safety Bill could mean for the future of our built environment

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WELCOME NOTE

Editor

Hannah Woodger

hannah@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Rebecca Kemp

rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Print & Digital Advertising Sam Ball

sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Jim Moore

jim@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Sweeping change has brought back into hard focus the importance of green spaces, as Thomson EC explains. See page 08.

Print Design Manager Jack Witcomb

jack@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Digital Design Manager Matt Morse

matt@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Accounts

Rachel Pike

rachel@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Sales Support & Administrator

Klare Porter

klare@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Publisher Sam Ball

Welcome to the November issue of PSBJ... Lockdown and the lasting effects of the pandemic have forced us to make many adjustments in our lives. One noticeable difference is the amount of time we spend in our homes. Thankfully we were gifted with a glorious summer and windows nationwide were left wide open in order to appreciate that bit of fresh air we so craved. However, as autumn and winter sets in, home ventilation isn’t going to be quite as high up on the list of priorities. While it is now recommended to work from home where we can, the warm environment that we seek can unfortunately promote condensation, and subsequent mould if this continues to build up over a period of time.

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In social housing, where landlords have no control over tenants’ behaviour, it can be hard to educate occupants on how best to avoid this scenario. After all, mould can lead to a number of unwelcome health issues, such as asthma and bronchitis. Adequate ventilation is one way to combat this problem during the colder months and, as a result, it will prevent structural damage to buildings too. In this month’s issue, we hear from John Bradley, Managing Director at Homevent (Elta Fans residential division), who explains why engagement with tenants is key for social housing landlords and offers some potential solutions. You can read more on page 16. Meanwhile, on the topic of damp, Safeguard reflects on the Government’s green retrofit campaign and stresses that works to improve properties will be time and money wasted if the fabric isn’t fixed first. Turn to page 30 to find out more. I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information on PSBJ’s user-friendly and engaging website. Fully responsive, the website allows you to read all the latest stories on-the-go either on your phone or tablet. Simply visit www.psbjmagazine.com.

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Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor's hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Cross Platform Media Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Hannah

Hannah Woodger • Editor • hannah@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Find us on Social Media:      @psbjmagazine

CONTENTS

06 News

A round up of the latest industry news including charity events, awarded contracts, completed projects and much more.

08 Upfront

Thomson EC highlights why green spaces matter more than ever in the context of the global pandemic and explores what developers can do to increase biodiversity both on and off site.

12 Leisure

Veronica Craddock, from the South Downs National Park Authority, talks to PSBJ about embracing nature-based solutions to create a healthy environment for all to enjoy.

14 Healthcare

Conlon Construction and Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP) have completed a rehabilitation unit which will help patients recovering from mental health conditions regain the skills associated with day-today living.

16 Housing

There are a number of factors that regularly contribute to condensation in our homes, but events of the past six months have created a perfect storm that could make this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condensation season worse than ever.

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08 18 MMC

22 Legal & Business

20 Drainage & Landscaping

24 Education

Wallcoverings specialist Reco Surfaces discusses how offsite construction has kept the construction industry building and how it could lead to changes in our built environment.

Steve Bennett of Dura Products discusses the importance of properly integrated drainage infrastructure and explains the benefits of switching to recycled plastic drainage systems.

Is downing tools on a construction site for non-payment still lawful in the wake of new COVID-19-related insolvency legislation? Muckle LLP explores further.

Matthew Margetts, Director of Sales and Marketing at Smarter Technologies, explores how digitalising school facilities can maximise efficiency in response to COVID-19.

CONTENTS

26 Talking Point

Jeremy Harrison, Managing Director of MSL Property Care Services, discusses the difference between hard and soft facilities management, what they include and when the different services may be necessary.

28 Doors & Windows

Nick Cowley, Managing Director at windows and doors manufacturer Euramax, looks at the pros and cons of automatic planning permission and why reliable relationships are crucial throughout the supply chain.

30 Technical Focus

The Government’s drive to retrofit energy efficiency into our homes will be time and money wasted if we don’t fix the fabric first. In the case of cavity wall insulation, it’s never been so important, explains Safeguard.

32 Acoustics & Sound

Excessive noise hinders the academic performance of students. However, it’s an issue often left unconsidered during the construction process, resulting in educational establishments becoming sonic battlegrounds.

PORTHOLES

LOUVRES

POWER TRANSFER UNITS

LOCKS AND CYLINDERS

22 34 Fire Safety

Ges Wallace, Managing Director of Evac+Chair International, discusses the draft Building Safety Bill and what this means for future buildings and their residents.

38 Product Showcase

A dedicated focus of industry news, products and case studies to help specifiers and local authorities make informed decisions.

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NEWS

INDUSTRY UPDATES Each month PSBJ rounds up the latest public sector construction updates, from new contracts to industry awards.

A.C. Whyte to £60m redevelopment deliver housing of one of the UK’s boost in East Ayrshire largest independent schools completes Following a successful tender earlier this year,

First phase of Central Hill rebuilding programme approved by Lambeth Council Lambeth Council’s Planning Committee overwhelmingly approved Homes for Lambeth’s planning application to build 31 new affordable homes on Truslove House, Roman Rise. The site backs onto Central Hill Estate which was earmarked by Lambeth Council’s Cabinet in 2016 for rebuilding. This planning application marks the first phase of the rebuilding of Central Hill Estate, providing more highquality, affordable homes for residents on the estate and the housing waiting list. Residents of the estate will also soon be invited to contribute to the masterplanning process for future phases on the estate. Councillor Matthew Bennett, Lambeth’s Lead Member for Planning, Investment & New Homes, remarks: “These homes will be built to the highest standards for local families and deliver significant reductions in carbon. Building these homes is the first step in meeting the council’s commitment to build a new home for every resident of Central Hill, after a majority of council tenants backed rebuilding the estate in an independent consultation.”

Barrhead-based contractor A.C. Whyte will deliver a £5m programme to upgrade more than 490 East Ayrshire homes by September 2021. East Ayrshire Council awarded the roof and render works contract to the family-owned business with a view to work starting in March. However, due to COVID-19 Government guidelines, this was placed on hold. As restrictions begin to ease and with strict health and safety measures implemented across all A.C. Whyte sites, the two organisations have resumed talks on how to move forward in delivering these renovations safely and efficiently as soon as possible. Specialising in the major refurbishment of occupied housing for local authorities and housing associations throughout the UK, the £5m contract will see A.C. Whyte renovate almost 500 homes in Kilmaurs, Logan and Dalyrmyple with insulated roofing as part of its mission to improve energy efficiency in homes across Scotland.

The multi-million-pound redevelopment of one of the largest independent schools in the UK has completed, delivering state-of-the-art facilities for students in Macclesfield. The King’s School employs 250 people and provides education for more than 1200 students from pre-school through to sixth form. This £60m redevelopment scheme unites two previous sites across the town into one central area, with the new campus sitting adjacent to the school’s existing sports pitches at Derby Fields. 21,000m2 of new academic building has been built, creating 350 rooms, along with a separate sports centre and 75 acres of sporting and outdoor facilities. The new sports centre houses a 25m, six-lane swimming pool, a six-court sports hall, an indoor cricket centre, a dance and martial arts studio, a fitness suite and a cafe. Outside, students will have use of five new rugby football pitches, a rounders field, two floodlit AstroTurf hockey pitches and netball courts.

Primary school opens to pupils – despite COVID-19 setbacks

Roythornes secures spot on prestigious social housing framework

A new £9m primary school built on the former RAF Locking base and surrounding land in North Somerset has welcomed its first cohort of pupils – after construction completed in time for the 2020/21 academic year, despite setbacks caused by COVID-19. The Parklands Educate Together Primary School, in Westonsuper-Mare, has been designed and built to meet the needs of staff, pupils and the local community – delivering 14 modern classrooms, a multi-use games area, main hall, hard and soft informal play areas and a habitat area. Initially, the school will provide 420 primary school places and a self-contained pre-school, with capacity to expand to 630 places, when required. Property, construction and infrastructure consultancy Perfect Circle was appointed by North Somerset Council via Scape Group’s National Built Environment Consultancy Services (BECS) framework to provide cost management and quantity surveying (QS) services for the project.

Top 200 law firm Roythornes Solicitors has successfully won a place on the Regenda Group framework to deliver legal expertise across its housing, construction care and support-focused organisations. Roythornes was awarded two framework lots, including the property, development and construction lot, which will be headed by Bhavesh Amlani, Partner and Head of Real Estate. Its place on the housing, management and commercial lot will be led by specialist Bukola Obadun-Craigs, who recently joined Roythornes as Partner. The Regenda Group is a forward-thinking collection of organisations, which works to regenerate places and create opportunities for people. Its core business is Regenda Homes, a housing association managing more than 13,000 properties across the North West. This recent success is hot off the heels of several new client wins for Roythornes, with the real estate and property team securing a number of new accounts this year.

Building control surveyor expands southern team with Associate Director Respected approved inspector Ball & Berry has accelerated the expansion of its southern team with a third appointment in as many months. Darren Davies joins Ball & Berry as an Associate Director, alongside recently-recruited Senior Building Control Surveyor, Graham Hoare, and Regional Director, Stuart Martin, as the company works to expand its coverage across the bottom half of the country. Darren’s role will focus on growing Ball & Berry’s presence in commercial and domestic markets in the region, as well as identifying opportunities for additional growth in thriving areas. Regional Director, Stuart Martin, said: “We are very pleased to be welcoming Darren to the team, at what is a pivotal time for our business. We are, quite simply, thriving since launching an official presence in the south and Darren’s appointment is the next step in ensuring we scale up quickly in line with that demand.”

Balfour Beatty scores on the National Graduate Week league table Balfour Beatty has secured a top spot on the National Graduate Week league table, placing it as the sixth most desirable company that students aspire to work for once they have completed their studies. More than 15,000 UKbased university students and graduates were surveyed to reveal the results, which included companies such as Network Rail, Barclays, Aldi and Boeing. As the only construction and infrastructure company featured on the league table, achieving sixth place is testament to Balfour Beatty’s ongoing commitment to providing young people with exciting career opportunities across multiple sectors including transportation, power and energy, water and social infrastructure. Through its membership of The 5% Club, founded by Group Chief Executive Leo Quinn in 2013, Balfour Beatty is dedicated to developing the next generation, ensuring that 5% of its workforce is made up of apprentices, sponsored students and graduates on formalised training schemes.

Midlands-based landscape architect practice Influence has experienced business growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, as demand for compliant outdoor space within commercial developments increases. The chartered landscape architect and environmental planner has seen a 20% increase in live projects compared with the same period last year, following a surge in commercial enquiries throughout the pandemic. The practice has found that development projects, especially within commercial environments, are beginning to integrate safety measures into designs based upon Government guidelines. Examples of the design changes Influence is now working on include wider walkways, more spaced seating and more of a focus on place-marking of areas. Sara Boland, Owner and Managing Director of Influence, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in the way we move around public outdoor spaces forever and this has resulted in an increased demand for designs to incorporate safety measures.”

Homes England and Invest & Fund launch seven-year lending partnership Homes England and Invest & Fund, a leading development finance lending platform, have announced a seven-year partnership to increase the amount of finance available to SME developers to help them grow and deliver more homes at pace. The collaboration will create a £25m revolving fund to allow Invest & Fund to support small builders with construction loans of between £400k and £2.5m, funding schemes of two homes and upwards, at up to 80% Loan-To-Cost. Gordon More, Chief Investment Officer of Homes England, said: “We are delighted to announce this partnership, which underlines our commitment to supporting the growth of small builders to allow them to continue to diversify the market and become the large builders of tomorrow. In Invest & Fund, we have found a partner with a shared purpose to support the market and the desire and capability to scale their lending activity. The deal demonstrates our ability to ‘Make Homes Happen’ in different ways in support of our mission. We are particularly pleased to be working with a specialist finance provider, recognising the crucial role that the nonbank lending market continues to play in supporting smaller builders in these challenging times.”

NEWS

Demand for compliant public space bolsters landscape architect firm

Multi-award success for Midlands contractor Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson is celebrating being a successful finalist for both the East and West Midlands 2020 LABC Building Excellence Awards. Successful projects that G F Tomlinson delivered were winners of the ‘Best Small Commercial Project’ in the East Midlands awards, and ‘Best Public Service or Educational Building’ in the West Midlands Awards. Chesterfield-based project Ashgate Hospicecare was named as the winner of ‘Best Small Commercial Project’ in the East Midlands awards. Another successful project in the East Midlands Awards was The University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute. The project was awarded Highly Commended for the ‘Best Public Service or Educational Building’ category in the awards. The Central Science Laboratories, Keele University project was the winner of the West Midlands ‘Best Public Service or Educational Building’ category. Andy Sewards, Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “The awards recognise the hard work put into delivering high-quality public sector schemes and all of our schemes that have been finalists in this year’s awards have made a positive impact on the local community – which is something that we are incredibly proud of. Well done to everyone involved.”

DASH to turn derelict toilet block into a community Stockport-based architecture practice DASH Architecture had plans approved by Stockport Council, which will see it transform an unused toilet block into a community hub to help fight loneliness. The venue, in Woodley Precinct Stockport, is not in use and currently stands empty. DASH Architecture will lead on the works to transform the space into a base for voluntary group, Stockport Community Shed, which is part of the UK ‘Men’s Shed’ movement. The movement aims to use sheds to enhance social connections, friendship, companionship and camaraderie. Nigel Crompton, Principal Architect at DASH Architecture, says: “For a long time, research has shown the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on a person’s health and wellbeing, this has only been amplified during COVID and therefore, we think it’s more important than ever for a space such as Men’s Sheds to pop-up.”

UPFRONT

THE IMPORTANCE OF PLANNING FOR GREEN SPACES Sweeping change has brought back into hard focus the importance of green spaces, especially as society becomes gradually more ‘distanced’. UK-based independent environmental consultant Thomson EC explains more.

long with critical change in the UK’s troubled economy, which has journeyed its peaks and troughs in recent times, the leading UK health institutions have become increasingly aware of both mental and physical wellbeing and outdoor spaces. At the same time, UK construction is involved in creating more ecoconscious, sustainable residential areas, such as housing that focuses on green living. The role of green spaces on public health – now and historically – has been unambiguous. Even Government policy is now trying to promote a healthier, happier lifestyle through access to green spaces. Health Secretary, Alan Johnson, recently established plans

to hatch a sustainable future for the UK with “fit towns”, which will empower healthier lifestyles. Those in greener areas suffer notably lower levels of mental distress when compared to those in more densely compact urban areas. In fact, research has suggested that activities such as gardening promote happiness. Over the next couple of years, housebuilding in the UK is poised to become more about sustainability in the future. Partly an economic incentive, especially for smaller, local areas and communities, this move, called a “housebuilding revolution”, is also about capturing new attitudes on natural conservation. As the property market boils in the

UPFRONT easing of lockdown measures, new construction sites will commence building a cleaner future for Britain. Changes are afoot for the industry, but why is greener housing so important?

Greener housing Back in 2019, plans unveiled a move from UK officials that promoted a sustainable blueprint for housing in the UK. The so-called “green revolution” was designed to push a revolution in housebuilding through sustainable energy sources and other eco features. New policies are placing deadlines, commitments and budgets behind this green push to front environmental issues at the heart of UK housebuilding for the foreseeable future. Housing is one of the areas that has been identified as a way of lowering damaging footprints to the climate. Greener housing is about capturing a sustainable future vision for the UK housing sector, but it’s also a key part of the “recovery” effort. Housebuilding is now concerned with moving away from harmful and damaging environmental impacts.

What makes a green space valuable? The value of a green space can be economically rewarding. More importantly, it’s key in curbing growing mental health issues. The limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the critical importance of quality green spaces within housing developments and the need to place greater emphasis on the provision of green infrastructure in the future. Green spaces, in new housebuilding projects, need to balance quality with quantity. Many have suggested that quality green spaces can promote cleaner lifestyles. The features that set apart the more valuable green spaces might include access to water features or areas with better biodiversity. Recently, research has linked parks and other communal green spaces with greater public health. Yet, in the context of COVID-19, fewer spaces than green parks and public or private gardens have been able to provide safety and respite from the global pandemic. The access to green spaces and features, such as public parks or urban trees, is part of the planning and infrastructure process that developers should be actively involved with. 

UPFRONT

UPFRONT The pandemic has refocused awareness to this challenge – or, how to deliver green spaces to urban areas? One of the solutions, though not a quick or easy change, is to introduce better canopy coverage from trees or use green buffers in neighbourhoods, spacing out homes within the natural environment of the area.

Is Britain heading outdoors? Forecasts for the future, through an unchallenged and damaging footprint, suggests that the UK is getting hotter. With scarce green space, it will make it harder for UK homeowners and residents alike to remain healthy and happy throughout disruptive episodes like the COVID-19 pandemic. Green space, or lack of, can be harmful and lead to health inequalities. The pandemic may not have renewed the interest in green spaces and housebuilding, but it certainly will accelerate the delivery of cleaner homes and neighbourhoods. The benefits of green spaces are known – decreased anxiety, depression and fatigue. Green spaces, in

some scenarios, have been called a “natural capital”. This suggests that the natural environment is only growing in value, as it unfortunately becomes scarcer. But green planning has even more value.

Addressing a remote workforce Nowadays, workforces are facing new challenges. With fewer attending traditional office spaces, workforces are becoming more remote. But technology has kept the remote workforce pulled together and, in some scenarios, more productive than before. Those working remotely are relying more on their homes as a valuable setting to conduct official work tasks. Generally, those working remotely have found that regular access to green space, like their garden, is an essential step in reinforcing their mental health.

Biodiversity It’s not only about public happiness. Rather, sustainability in housing will focus more on biodiversity on and off site. As housebuilding projects become more common, and biodiversity

declines, the call for more sustainable construction is captured in the new mandate for the biodiversity net gain (BNG) as outlined by the Environmental Bill. This is a deadline that will refocus housebuilding into goals of sustainability and promote a greener footprint. For developers looking to limit costly delays, slow-downs or planning refusals – which could mean expensive resubmissions and redesigns – being proactive and ambitious about biodiversity could empower their outcomes. Biodiversity is something that can be measured and assessed. Planning policies and decisions can promote biodiversity, which is a responsibility most often assigned to local authorities and developers. Every habitat, specimen of wildlife or green space is unique. These are seasonally and regionally diverse. There is no textbook ruling for approaching the challenge and opportunity to nurture biodiversity on and off sites. Being proactive with the BNG requirement can bring in valueadded points for housebuilding constructions. Green spaces can

make sites seem more attractive, not only to local authorities, but to potential homebuyers, who will likely want green scenery. After the pandemic, there is a likelihood, when assessing the renewed focus on green spaces, that access to green scenery will be a higher priority for many homebuyers too. For developers, the planning stage is the best opportunity to include meaningful biodiversity. For housing builds and neighbourhoods, key green spaces can attract interest in your project: orchards, denser canopies, wildflower rich areas, ponds and other water features. Green spaces are rising in popularity and not only because of Government policy, but how public attitudes are changing. Strong, resilient communities are at the heart of the UK’s thrust to build houses and green infrastructure that meet goals of optimising biodiversity. Being strategic with the planning of a residential project early on, by mapping out green spaces and features, can bring value into your project. 

www.thomsonec.com

LEISURE

NATURAL OR GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE – WORKING WITH NATURE Veronica Craddock, Infrastructure and Environment Strategy Lead for the South Downs National Park Authority, talks to PSBJ about embracing nature-based solutions to create a healthy environment for all to enjoy.

Winnall Moors Nature Reserve, a 10-minute walk from the centre of Winchester

ll day, every day, nature is working invisibly to keep the environment healthy for wildlife and people. It produces all of these essential things for free: clean water, clean air, temperature/ regulation, healthy soils, pollination, photosynthesis, microorganisms and nutrient cycling, food and energy, and wonder. However, in the UK, nature is declining at an alarming rate according to the RSPB State of Nature Report 2019. For example, 97% of UK wildflower meadows have been lost in the past 100 years; 47% of urban species have declined since 1970. Whilst at the same time, spending on UK biodiversity as a percentage of GDP has fallen by 32% from 0.034% (2008) to 0.25% (2014/5).

These parallel circumstances seem to be completely opposing; how is it that we live in a society which values nature so highly but destroys it at the same time?

Nature in urban areas In terms of the urban environment, we know that access to natural space and a high-quality natural environment is a social and health equity issue. That there are many people in society who cannot access or enjoy the benefits of natural space due to a simple under-provision, by having limited mobility, physical barriers such as roads and railways; or through perceived social exclusion such as race or cultural issues. The

effects in urban areas of poor air quality, noise pollution, urban over-heating and surface water flooding can be reduced by well-planned natural spaces and features. The demand for natural space has been particularly brought to light as one aspect of the COVID pandemic. The People and Nature survey for England (Natural England) reported that during July 2020, 42% of adults reported that “nature and wildlife is more important than ever to wellbeing”. So, as planners, architects, highway and road engineers, property teams, park department developers, local residents, councils and businesses – what can be done?

In the UK, there are great examples of green infrastructure-based work happening in Cambridge, Manchester and the West Midlands, but there is a long way to go before it could be described as mainstream for either developers or councils. Green infrastructure is the way forward to sustainablydesigned cities and urban areas. In order to do this, we need to build multi-disciplinary land use planning into our DNA so that our designed environments can provide multiple natural benefits to society, the economy and the environment. In the South East of England, the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) has been developing a high-level strategic

LEISURE The PANN area showing the natural capital investment areas

approach to green infrastructure planning, which arose from a 2014 study into access to natural green space in the South Downs National Park and its setting. Called the ‘People and Nature Network’ (PANN), the high-level strategy unites natural systems across 14 district and borough authorities and three counties. Although it is at a strategic level, it is designed to provide robust evidence to support local decision-making on a wide range of issues from health and wellbeing, climate change adaptation and mitigation, sustainable transport, access and recreation as well as nature connectivity. In this way, the SDNPA is working with partners and communities to bring nature

with its multiple benefits into the settlements and urban environments of the busy South East. The PANN sets out a twin-track approach for the network. Firstly, a set of key principles and PANN-wide actions are drawn together, and then 12 environmental hotspots (natural capital investment areas) are identified where a number of environmental, social and economical aspects combine to create unique areas which are in need of coordinated action by a range of partners. They are all different and the solutions to problems, whilst being nature-based, will also be different in each location. The PANN will

enable local projects and developments to ‘plug into’ a wider network in a way which is complementary to, and stands alongside, the Government’s Nature Recovery Network. Green infrastructure is about replacing grey or structure-dependent solutions with natural solutions to environmental issues. Natural flood management is a really good example of how this works. If the whole area that water drains into the river from is considered, it is possible to identify where particular measures could hold water higher up in the catchment for longer. To slow water flows will reduce downstream flooding, it also replenishes groundwater, and enhances wildlife habitats, saves soils from being washed away and improves water quality – a truly multifunctional approach which benefits both people and nature on a wide range of issues, at an economical, societal and environmental scale. This approach can also be taken into our towns, villages and settlements where many watercourses are culverted or canalised; renaturalising them in the context of natural flood management saves money,

creates habitats and improves water quality in the same way, whilst also creating beauty and amenity for local people. Winnall Moors Nature Reserve on the east side of Winchester is a good example of natural flood management, which was the result of a successful HLF lottery bid by Hampshire Wildlife Trust to restore the historic water meadows in the River Itchen Flood Plain (an internationally-designated site for wildlife), and at the same time provide increased flood water capacity from dredging the historical ditches and channels in the water meadows to reduce flood waters entering the city and enriching habitat provision as well. We need to embrace and combine the concepts of green infrastructure, natural capital, nature-based solutions, net-zero through nature and biodiversity net gain as mainstream norms to create a healthy, natural environment which supports nature recovery, no more so than now, as we find a way through the combined effects and causes of the COVID pandemic and the climate crisis. 

www.southdowns.gov.uk

HEALTHCARE

PRESTON’S SKYLARK CENTRE: A TRULY CONSCIENTIOUS DEVELOPMENT Conlon Construction and Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP) have completed the creation of a rehabilitation unit which will help patients recovering from mental health conditions regain the skills associated with day-to-day living.

n 2010, Preston residents took part in a campaign led by local MP Sir Mark Hendrick to prevent the closure of the Avondale Unit – a centre at the Royal Preston Hospital which provided adult inpatient care for those recovering from severe mental health issues. The Government had ordered the unit to close as part of major cost-saving measures across the North, but the public were concerned its shutdown would mean patients receive less specialist support, either in the community or at alternative units outside of the area. The Avondale soon closed, and for the next 10 years, those suffering from mental health illnesses in Preston travelled to other areas of Lancashire for their rehabilitation. During that time, the number of people requiring mental health support in the city rose faster

than anywhere else in the UK. In 2018/19 alone, 10.8% of the area’s population were in contact with mental health services – the highest rate in the country. In response to this, and realising the area needed a dedicated facility to support this trend, in January 2020 the Government awarded Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust (LSCFT) with £2m to open 11 new mental health rehabilitation beds – destined to occupy the now defunct Avondale Unit. Reinstated to reduce the number of people with mental health issues being sent to other parts of the country or visiting hospital accident and emergency departments, the beds would require a newly-refurbished home which was fit-for-purpose, offering a robust and safe environment that fully met the needs of the community.

Local contractor Conlon Construction was appointed to the redevelopment and provided a build solution with oversight for the newly-named Skylark Centre. Based in Bamber Bridge, just a couple of miles from the hospital, Conlon Construction worked in partnership with architect, design and masterplanning practice Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP) – also on the unit’s doorstep – to develop a truly local supply chain that would bring the passion displayed for the unit ahead of its closure to the fore of the new centre. Conlon Construction brought its 20 years of expertise in building healthcare settings to the Preston project to ensure it was delivered efficiently and with consideration for the local environment and economy. In 2018, it delivered One Hatfield Hospital, a purpose-built, energyefficient facility in Hertfordshire

which was awarded BREEAM ‘Excellent’ for its lowest possible carbon footprint. Renowned as a contractor that constructs with local residents in mind, Conlon’s contribution to the One Hatfield Hospital was awarded top points in the Considerate Constructers Scheme, scoring ‘Exceptional’ in the Community, Environment, Safety and Valuing the Workforce categories. But the project at Royal Preston had more synergies with Conlon Construction than a need to deliver efficiently. It is specifically designed for patients who have experienced long periods of time in hospital to rebuild abilities such as cooking, cleaning, laundry care and shopping, as well as how to return to employment. As a leading contractor in the area, the development’s needs were aligned with some of Conlon’s main priorities. Earlier in 2020, the company announced it had selected mental health charity Lancashire Mind as its chosen charity for the year. Darren Lee, Commercial Director at Conlon Construction, said: “Mental health is a growing concern both nationally and within our sector. Construction workers specifically – which make up just 7% of the national workforce – account for more than 13% of suicides in the country.

HEALTHCARE “Because we work with such a local supply chain, and in such a high-pressured industry, we were acutely aware that some of the people we work with might need to access the Skylark facility at some point in their lives. That gave us extra motivation to deliver and work with partners who could make this a truly outstanding community provision. “Connecting with Lancashire Mind is one way we can bring those figures down and working on projects, such as the Skylark Centre, is another. It will make a huge difference to the Preston community, providing much-needed care and ongoing rehabilitation for all the practical elements of life – the things people forget are important to recovery.” The project didn’t come without its challenges. All parties had to coordinate their teams and resource during the biggest stall to construction operations the country had ever seen, ensuring the scheme could still be delivered to projected timings and budgets despite the coronavirus lockdown. To facilitate this, teams made use of electronic meetings and video updates, and utilised BIM processes to simultaneously manage the design and flow of information across the supply chain. The £2m refurbishment was completed on time and has

now been fully operational since June, taking an initial cohort of male inpatients. Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP), equally experienced in designing and delivering healthcare settings, shared Conlon Construction’s vision to offer some of the most vulnerable people in Preston a facility which would help them overcome the most challenging period of their lives. The interior design was fully coordinated by FWP, which has offices in Preston, Manchester and London, to bring the unit’s spaces together seamlessly, to enhance and enrich the patient journey and to aid their recovery. David Simmons, FWP Associate Partner and Interior Designer, said:

“We were tasked with delivering a robust and safe environment for patients, while also maintaining a domestic feel to the unit. “One of our main aims was to improve the patient experience. We’ve done that through thoughtful modern design and the use of colour and light to create a calming and peaceful atmosphere. “There’s a woodland theme running through much of the work, which gives an added air of tranquillity and a spacious feel to the whole area. “We think we’ve delivered something special, which is far removed from people’s traditional view of a hospital unit.” James Halsall, FWP’s Lead Designer on the project, said

completing the scheme during the COVID pandemic was “particularly challenging”. He said: “Team interactions, working practices and material procurement all had to be reviewed in order to minimise disruption to the project timescales, whilst maintaining safe working practices within Government guidelines.” Darren Lee added: “This was a project delivered in true partnership, at a time of major adversity. Only by working intrinsically with FWP and LSCFT were we able to deliver such a high-quality unit in line with original timings.” 

www.conlon-construction.co.uk

HOUSING If more people are spending more time at home, more moisture will be produced, and therefore more instances of condensation and mould will occur

A PERFECT STORM FOR CONDENSATION IN SOCIAL HOUSING Condensation is an issue that rears its head every year, especially in private rented and social housing. There are a number of factors that regularly contribute to its prevalence, but events of the past six months have created a perfect storm that could make this year’s condensation season worse than ever. John Bradley, Managing Director at Homevent (Elta Fans residential division), explains.

or anyone involved with housing management and maintenance – particularly landlords – condensation is a massive issue. Typically occurring during the colder months of the year, it is caused by moistureladen air inside a home cooling as it comes into contact with colder walls and windows. Crucially, it is intrinsically linked to a lack of ‘adequate ventilation’.

What are the issues with inadequate ventilation?

Condensation is caused by moisture-laden air inside a home cooling as it comes into contact with colder walls and windows

Inadequate ventilation has a big impact on the quality of air inside a home, and can be linked with a number of health concerns such as sinus problems, skin rashes, exacerbation of asthma and

even bronchitis. For occupants, this is clearly unacceptable, and measures should be taken to ensure there is enough ventilation for the sake of their health. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 provides a means for tenants to make claims against their landlord if they feel that instances of condensation, mould and damp are a direct consequence of inadequate ventilation. Or, as it is referred to in the Government’s guidance on the act, “not enough ventilation”. Alongside the structural damage it can cause, this risk of compliance highlights why a ‘prevention is better than cure’ approach should be taken to combatting condensation.

Tenant behaviour One of the most challenging aspects of addressing condensation in rented housing is the lack of control a landlord has over tenant behaviour and their use of purpose-provided ventilation measures installed in a home. This is understandable in many cases, especially in homes where background ventilators such as trickle vents in windows are installed. It can be challenging to explain to a tenant that they should leave trickle ventilators open during cold weather months, given that these vents are installed in double and sometimes triple glazed windows, designed to keep heat in during winter. This perceived contradiction and lack of understanding of the use of trickle ventilators is often at the heart of many condensation dampness problems in homes. This is an issue compounded when tenants are on low incomes, as they will often be unable to afford high heating bills. In turn, this also makes them less likely to open windows, which might otherwise help to naturally ventilate a room and allow moisture to escape. Particularly prevalent in social housing, the link between fuel poverty and condensation is something that landlords should be aware of,

in order to facilitate a proactive approach to mitigating a lack of natural ventilation.

Higher levels of home occupancy One of the lasting effects of the COVID-19 lockdown has been the amount of time individuals are spending at home. We often hear that we spend 90% of our lives indoors, and when you consider that social distancing has meant the closure of numerous leisure and work spaces, it is clear that many of us are spending more time than ever in our homes. This is coupled with an increase in remote working, with 74% of those asked in a recent survey saying they would prefer to continue working remotely in the future. If more people are spending more time at home, it means more moisture will be produced in rented properties, and therefore more instances of condensation will occur. If landlords are to avoid the negative consequences of this, both financial and health-related, they have to consider whether a more strategic approach to ventilation is required.

Green Homes Grant The circumstances that we have described already present a worrying picture for the condensation season ahead, and

HOUSING

ELTA FANS’ POSITIVE INPUT VENTILATION (PVI) UNIT

the introduction of the Green Homes Grant further exacerbates the issue. Under the grant, families can receive vouchers of up to £5000 for energy-saving changes to their home, which crucially includes insulation. This is a move which is absolutely welcomed from a heat-loss and carbon emissions perspective, however, without incorporating improvements to ventilation, this has the potential to worsen an already worrying trend towards homes that are too ‘airtight’, or not fitted with adequate purposeprovided ventilation measures. It’s something we have seen over the past few decades, as structures increasingly reduce the amount of air that naturally flow in and out. The problem with this is that moisture produced inside the home cannot escape, and if this is combined with the factors we have already outlined, it could have major repercussions for landlords tasked with preventing condensation.

Finding a solution While much of what we have covered is out of a landlord’s direct control, it is worth understanding the options that are available to them in limiting the prevalence of condensation. It is a critical balancing act when

it comes to rented housing, and social housing in particular, to ensure good indoor air quality without incurring high energy bills. The provision of properly applied, installed and commissioned good quality condensation control equipment, designed to work with little or no dependency on trickle ventilators, can ensure that good indoor air quality is maintained in a cost-effective, energyefficient way, but it is vital that a case-by-case approach is taken to find the best solution. On the eve of what could turn out to be the worst condensation season in memory, landlords should be doing all they can to mitigate the unfortunate set of circumstances we have covered. In a bid to help social housing landlords meet their obligations to tenants in an efficient and compliant way, Homevent is offering a free one-hour CPD seminar on ‘Providing “adequate ventilation” in existing homes’. The range of considerations and potential solutions can be intimidating, which is why landlords should engage with ventilation specialists ahead of the cold winter months. For more information on the seminar, email John Bradley at jbradley@eltafans.co.uk. 

www.eltafans.com

MMC

Image ©Chapman Taylor

HOW OFFSITE HAS KEPT THE COUNTRY BUILDING Charlie Fleet, Managing Director at wallcoverings specialist, Reco Surfaces, discusses how offsite construction has kept the construction industry building and how it could lead to changes in our built environment.

020’s unique challenges have shone a spotlight on the built environment like never before. We’ve been forced to think and then think again about how we build, structure and refurbish buildings that are usually taken for granted to make sure that they are suitable for use in the current climate. This is especially true in the public sector, where hospitals, schools, social housing, council offices and all the spaces that make up our communities have been closely scrutinised for their ability to enable social distancing and minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19. However, the pressures of the virus have put a strain on the construction industry’s ability to build and upgrade these facilities. The lockdown not only caused a backlog of work which now needs to be done, but previously busy sites are also cutting back to skeleton crews in order

to maintain 2m between tradespeople, further slowing down the speed at which projects can be completed. This slowdown is all the more concerning given the fact that it’s imperative that we have robust public sector facilities that are prepared for the next curveball or crisis lurking around the corner.

How offsite has kept construction moving For all the above reasons, many new-build developments and refurbishment projects are turning to offsite construction methods to speed up work without compromising on safety or building standards. As the name suggests, offsite construction is when sections of the building are put together offsite in specialist factories and then pieced together onsite. This allows for large quantities of identical building parts to be created much faster

than normal while providing a number of economies of scale and product quality benefits. The potential for a faster, more streamlined construction process was highlighted by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES), which estimated that if 25% of the UK construction sector moved to offsite building it would achieve a 3.6% increase in productivity. This method of working is inherently better suited to a world of social distancing and enhanced hygiene sensitivity, as the work is taken away from busy and chaotic construction sites and instead carried out within enclosed factories that can be partitioned and where the movement of staff can be easily controlled. As the factories could keep rolling, it allowed projects to keep building without having to scale back on the timetable due to trades having to be delayed,

shifts having to be reorganised and quarantine measures limiting the number of people who can be actively working at any one time. Another significant aspect to minimising disruption is that by sourcing materials from British suppliers and manufacturers of offsite products, developers don’t need to rely on long international supply lines – which the past year has shown are at risk of interference and long delays, should overseas factories close or lockdowns restrict the movement of products from abroad. Being less reliant on imported materials will potentially be an even more important factor when the Brexit transition period ends in December.

Offsite in action The ability of offsite construction to not only maintain construction work but, in fact, to speed it up was

MMC exemplified by the Grange University Hospital in Cwmbran, Wales. This hospital was not intended to be completed until 2021, however, when the scale of the COVID-19 crisis and the increased workload that it would place on the NHS became apparent, the health board in charge decided that the hospital’s facilities needed to be ready as soon as possible. Fortunately, the hospital was already being developed in line with modern methods of construction (MMC) which included offsite techniques, an approach which was estimated to provide a programme saving for the hospital of 23% compared to a traditional build. The agility of offsite construction meant that the development could be significantly fast-tracked when the epidemic reared its head in March, so that 350 new beds could be made available by April – hospital space which was not meant to have been operational for another 12 months. The commissioning and soft landings period in particular was reduced from 12 weeks to only four. This means that the region’s healthcare infrastructure is in a much better place to deal with an influx of patients in the event of a second spike of COVID-19 infections.

Designing for a postCOVID-19 world Moving large parts of the building process into factories means that materials and innovations can be chosen that just wouldn’t be practical for traditional, onsite construction. This gives designers greater flexibility and a wider variety of solutions to choose from, a factor which is going to help public sector facilities rethink their spaces to cope with the challenges of COVID-19. This is a trend that we believe will be particularly evident in the design of kitchens and bathrooms, as these are priority spaces for hygiene and infection control measures. At Reco Surfaces, we’ve already experienced an increased

interest in solutions that are in any way more hygienic than the systems that would normally be used, so that building operators can benefit from the added safety net this provides.

A more agile construction industry For the public sector, the pressure to deliver isn’t going to let up, especially when it comes to growing a number of key areas such as healthcare and education over the next couple of years. While adoption of offsite construction in the UK overall is still relatively low, with only approximately 5% of the industry operating in this way, the lessons that have been learnt over the past year are

likely to see more and more large-scale infrastructure projects adopt this approach. This is a trend that can already be seen by decisions such as the Government choosing to use offsite construction as part of a £3bn project to build around 30 new schools a year for the next four years. Without an even wider acceptance of offsite though, it’s going to be very difficult to achieve the levels of agility, flexibility and responsiveness that the construction industry is going to need to both effectively adapt to quickly evolving situations, as well as meeting the scale of the public sector’s growth targets. 

www.recosurfaces.com

DRAINAGE & LANDSCAPING

INVESTING IN DURABLE DRAINAGE INFRASTRUCTURE Steve Bennett, Managing Director of Dura Products, discusses the importance of properly integrated drainage infrastructure and explains the benefits of switching to recycled plastic drainage systems.

rowing populations and urbanisation is driving the replacement of natural ground with hard, impermeable surfaces that are prone to flooding. In many parts of the UK, drainage infrastructure is insufficient and is responsible for widespread floods, causing approximately £1.3bn of damage per year. However, it is not just increased drainage efficiency that future projects need to focus on. The construction industry accounts for approximately a third of all waste and 36% of all CO2 emissions generated in the EU, and so it is crucial that the use of sustainable materials is also incorporated into forthcoming developments, particularly in the public sector. The key to any successful surface drainage system is installation and integration. A system must be installed correctly and equally integrated within varied surfaces across a project which can often have different operational challenges. A precise, quality finish during installation with sound integration between the product, system, bed, brace and landscape will ensure optimum performance and longevity.

We are advocates of combined kerb and drainage (CKD) and linear surface drainage systems, because they continually and quickly collect run-off from any surface. Unlike the traditional kerb and gully method where flows compound on the surface, the collected run-off is contained and driven to an outlet hidden within the channel body. Additionally, the units can be manufactured to have a large usable volume – providing a scale of economy for public sector construction projects – and be made from a hydraulically efficient material. This creates fast flows, good silt transit, and overall, a very effective drainage system. It also aids longevity of structure, system and product, meaning a reduced need for future maintenance. In recent years, there has been increased investment in the development of environmentallyfriendly construction materials in the public sector, driven by challenging green targets set by and for local authorities. CKD units and linear surface drains are traditionally made from mostly concrete, however, they can easily be made sustainably from recycled plastic waste.

At Dura Products, we have developed Duradrain, a robust CKD system, as well as Durachannel which is a heavyduty linear surface drainage system. Both of which consist of 70% recycled polymer and each unit contains the equivalent of at least 192 plastic bottles. The environmental benefits of using recycled materials in construction are clear, for example, the diversion of waste from entering landfill. It also minimises greenhouse gas emissions and reduces energy consumption as recycling requires fewer intensive processes in comparison to the extraction and processing of raw materials. We have calculated that for every 1000m of our products installed, it saves the environment approximately 30,676kg of carbon. This is due to decreased output during production and the removal of articulated vehicles during transportation, as being made from plastic makes each unit significantly lighter than concrete. However, we know that the public sector’s budgets are consistently being squeezed, and that price is a major concern. Recycled plastic drainage

systems don’t cost the earth environmentally, but they are also worth their (light) weight financially. The cost to deliver and install them is less of its concrete competition, because plastic is lighter and requires fewer skilled workers to handle it. Switching to recycled plastic construction materials in the public sector may seem challenging, but the benefits are already being felt by local councils across the country, such as Wokingham and Doncaster. We would encourage all project managers to consider incorporating more effective, eco-friendly and value for money drainage solutions into their construction work. 

www.durakerb.co.uk

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LEGAL & BUSINESS

or all businesses, but especially those in the construction industry, a very important new law came into force in June 2020. It is called the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 (CIGA) and its purpose, in the Government’s own words, is to give businesses the “breathing space they need to continue trading during this difficult time”. The background to this new legislation is clear but many of the CIGA’s effects are permanent.

Working with insolvent clients One such effect is a new ban on terminating a contract – or exercising many other important rights under a contract – for the supply of goods and services on the basis of the paying party’s insolvency. Apart from some limited exceptions, a clause allowing a supplying party to terminate a contract on grounds of the paying party’s insolvency is now invalid and unenforceable. The same applies to a clause which allows a supplying party to “do any other thing” in the event of insolvency. This might include: imposing interest, compressing payments terms or permitting a suspension of the supply until all monies are paid in full.

HOW GETTING PAID IS GETTING HARDER IN CONSTRUCTION Is downing tools on a construction site for non-payment still lawful in the wake of new COVID-19-related insolvency legislation? Adam Aston, Construction Lawyer at Muckle LLP, explains.

Adam Aston is a partner in the construction and engineering team at commercial law firm Muckle LLP. He regularly acts for developers, main contractors and subcontractors and has helped deliver a diverse range of construction projects across the UK.

Why suppliers can’t terminate In the construction world, this means that a contractor or sub-contractor cannot simply terminate and walk away from a contract because its client is insolvent. This is something which is otherwise clearly allowed in a number of standard form construction contracts such as JCT. It is worth noting that such a clause is still valid in the other direction – that is to say if a supplier becomes insolvent, there is nothing to stop an employer or main contractor terminating a building contract or sub-contract.

What about the right to suspend for non-payment? An obvious question relevant to the construction industry is how can the CIGA be reconciled with the right to suspend for nonpayment under S.112 of the Construction Act?

This has become a useful tool in the box of many contractors and sub-contractors seeking to limit exposure in an industry where margins are already notoriously tight. The answer isn’t entirely clear. At first glance it seems that the CIGA prevents the exercise of the right to suspend because it clearly prohibits suppliers from doing ‘anything’, which has the effect of making the payment of outstanding monies a condition of continuing to supply an insolvent party.

Some good news for suppliers However, look more closely and there may be some hope for the suppliers and sub-contractors who are already likely to be suffering most from the economic impact of COVID-19. This right to suspend performance for non-payment is a statutory right under the Construction Act, meaning it arises automatically irrespective of the terms the parties have agreed in their construction contract. So whilst the right to suspend for non-payment is often written into construction contracts it remains a statutory right which, in theory, should not be affected by the prohibition on contractual rights under CIGA. Also, the CIGA does not affect a right to suspend performance for non-payment where the paying party either simply chooses not to pay or is having cashflow problems but is not technically ‘insolvent’ within the definition provided by CIGA. Whilst this new legislation is intended to help businesses during this difficult time, interpreted narrowly, it could have a detrimental impact upon the construction supply chain at a time when it most needs to rely on the full range of benefits provided by the Construction Act. It remains to be seen how the courts and, perhaps most relevantly, adjudicators interpret the provisions introduced by CIGA. In the meantime, it has never been more important for the entire supply chain to work with one another in an attempt to collectively trade through the challenges that COVID-19 continues to create. 

www.muckle-llp.com

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EDUCATION

SMART EDUCATION Matthew Margetts, Director of Sales and Marketing at Smarter Technologies, explores how digitalising school facilities can maximise efficiency in response to COVID-19.

hile lockdown restrictions are being eased, it is likely that COVID-19 will leave a lasting legacy on our attitudes to safety and building management. As schools readjust to operating within the new norm, one thing is for certain: there is always room for vigilance when it comes to school processes. Whether to reduce costs, maximise efficiencies, or achieve optimal wellbeing of school-going children, smart technologies are here to stay for their extensive benefits.

Schools of the future will be smarter COVID-19 has underscored the importance of automated processes, which are adaptable to different building occupancies and shifting challenges. As schools

around the world take the first steps towards digital transformation, the simplicity and ease of integration of some smart technologies are showing marked cost savings; streamlined safety, maintenance and operational efficiencies; and enhanced green potential. Realtime reporting from sensors and technologies are mobilising schools to adopt a data-driven approach to take their schools into the future.

COVID-19 considerations Since withdrawn, the Government’s guidelines on schools’ management during COVID-19 have provided food for thought for governing bodies and facilities managers in the school setting. It is also driving

the adoption of data-based smart solutions to counteract operational challenges and reduce costs. The guidelines dealt with partially-closed facilities – and guidelines for full opening have since been issued. Within the school context, the categories outlined in the original guidelines are perennially important and, with a bearing on safety, the more precise, the better.

Coronavirus and temperature checking Across different facilities, temperature screening has become a naturalised daily occurrence, with elevated temperatures a good indicator of underlying illness. In the school setting, crowd screening technology has the potential to give live temperature readings, alerts and access control functionality. It can also be used as a contact traceability tool when high temperatures are detected. Using infrared sensors, this technology provides medically accurate readings in real-time with minimal disruptions or student backlogs.

Hot and cold water systems The dormancy of school buildings has created a secondary worry around legionella – and the latest guidance from The Department of Education encourages the usual pre-term building checks are conducted. This is an ongoing responsibility and one which is traditionally labour-intensive – involving hot and cold water temperature testing and flushing. This bacteria causes legionnaires’ disease, which is preventable yet potentially fatal. Automated legionella testing removes the need for human effort, cost, potential exposure and manual record-keeping. It also provides alerts of undesirable temperature readings and expedited response times – which, in buildings of extensive pipework, can avoid hefty maintenance bills. This smart approach to legionella maintenance is a simple compliance tool, which will help to ensure statutory obligations and prevent sometimes punitive penalties.

EDUCATION

A smarter outlook on energy and green transformation Without question, saving energy is smart – and smart technologies are leading the charge in helping schools to reduce consumption and achieve green goals. This is being achieved in a range of ways – from constant monitoring of HVAC usage, heating systems and lighting to the development of datadriven maintenance schedules to keep equipment performing efficiently. Smart sensors can deliver real-time insights on usage and occupancy, reducing waste to a minimum.

Compliance around fire safety monitoring Fire safety is a key compliance concern for schools. A system of smart tags and sensors can perform system tests, monitor extinguishers for tampering (notifying personnel on movement and weight changes, for instance), report on gas leaks and other risk factors, and keep a detailed, cloud-based record for compliance purposes. This removes the chance of human error and works together with smoke and fire alerts, automated roll call and fire door monitoring to offer schools a demonstrably meticulous approach to fire safety.

There’s smart and there’s smarter IoT (Internet of Things) solutions providers, like us, have developed a suite of smart solutions which cater to the schools of the future. Wireless, long-lasting and costeffective solutions combine a system of tags, sensors and pressure pads, which transmit data over a secure and private network. These powerful tools send data to a remote dashboard in real-time, with alerts for

undesirable readings, breaches and metrics – tailored to facilities owners’ buildings, assets and needs. With a user-friendly interface, these systems also collect data for thorough record-keeping and meaningful data insights, which have the potential to inspire informed decision-making and strategic development as schools continue to respond to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. 

www.smartertechnologies.com

TALKING POINT

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HARD AND SOFT FACILITIES MANAGEMENT Facilities management services are often split in to two types, hard facilities management, and soft facilities management. Here, Jeremy Harrison, Managing Director of MSL Property Care Services, discusses the difference between the two, what they include and when the different services may be necessary.

usinesses need to employ a variety of facilities management services in order to run effectively and remain compliant within the law; these services will vary depending on the size of the company and building, location and type of business.

What is facilities management? Facilities management encompasses all aspects of a building’s maintenance to ensure efficiency, safety and comfort. Employing facilities management companies, such as MSL Property Care Services, will help to ensure the building and relevant equipment – for instance, air conditioning units, electrics and water systems – are inspected regularly, repaired as required, and that each aspect is compliant

within the law. These services not only help to maintain the fabric of the building, but also help to ensure the safety of staff and visitors alike.

Hard facilities management The first type of facilities management is hard facilities management services. These relate to the physical and tangible aspects of the fabric of the building and will often have compliance laws and legislations attached to them. These services will help to ensure the safety of people on the premises and some examples of these are:

Lighting Safety within the workplace is vital, and ensuring the premises are well lit is a must. As part of a planned

maintenance schedule, lighting systems will be checked to ensure any minor faults and issues are identified early and can rectified to ensure business continuity and safety. Emergency lighting may also be implemented which will ensure that your business complies with relevant regulations. Lighting systems will also be inspected to ensure they are energyefficient, and depending on the size of your business, an ESOS energy assessment may be required.

HVAC As part of your facilities management inspections, heating, ventilation and air conditioning units will all undergo checks to ensure they are compliant within the law and working efficiently.

Jeremy Harrison is Managing Director of MSL Property Care Services, one of the UK’s leading property maintenance companies with an expansive range of facilities management services, including reactive, planned and compliance maintenance.

It is important to consider that different sized units and outputs will be required dependent on the size of the building; your facilities management team can help you identify what is right for your space and spot any inefficiencies in the equipment.

Water systems There are laws and legislations in place for water systems on business premises to protect people from legionella. Planned maintenance schedules help to ensure water systems are checked and tested regularly and compliance certifications are kept up to date. This will ensure your business remains within the law, avoiding potential fines and even court dates, but most importantly protecting those using the water from potential harm.

TALKING POINT

Fire safety systems In line with the Fire Safety Regulatory Reform (2005), every non-domestic building must appoint an individual as a ‘responsible person’ who oversees everything to do with fire safety. Your facilities management company can work with your company to ensure your fire safety equipment and systems are in working order and compliant with legislations.

Soft facilities management In contrast, soft facilities management relates to the additional services within a building and are often not compulsory but can make the environment more pleasant and secure. These services can often be removed or added to on an adhoc basis. An assessment of the property will identify the soft facilities management services which may be necessary for the property, some examples of these services include:

Cleaning Commercial regular cleaning or adhoc deep cleans may be required for your property. Often, cleaning and hygiene services can be provided out of work hours to ensure minimal disruption.

Security The levels of security required for your business will depend on the type, premises size and location. Security can vary from installing CCTV to having on-site security guards 24 hours a day. Consulting with an expert will help you understand the potential areas of your business which may need increased security.

Waste management This can include everything from the collection to the disposal of waste from your business. Many waste management services will offer recycling and it’s important to consider the environmental impact of your business through the waste it produces.

Pest control Infestations can cause a huge amount of issues for a business, even sometimes resulting in closure and evacuation of the premises. Pest control solutions can help treat infestations and get your business back up and running, but also identify and implement measures to prevent pests in potential areas of risk.

Aesthetics Landscaping, gardening and the upkeep of the appearance of a building can help to not only improve and maintain the value of the property but also make the environment more pleasant for staff and visitors alike improving overall morale.

Car parks If your business has a car park, it is your duty of care to ensure it is a safe environment for staff and visitors in both cars and on foot. You can liaise with your facilities management company to discuss the options pertaining to the car park such as implementing speed measures, adding clearer signage, increasing visibility with lighting, posts and mirrors, implementing seasonal maintenance checks and marking clear walkways for pedestrians.

Ensuring you are compliant and are employing all relevant hard facilities management services for your property will make sure your business remains within the law and is a safe and comfortable environment for your employees. There are many additional benefits to implementing soft services such as improving employee morale, increasing the value of the property, and adding additional security and peace of mind. It is good practice to understand the soft services which may be required for your business, therefore discussing with a facilities management company and undertaking a needs assessment will help you identify areas for improvement. There are many important factors to consider when running a business and having a team on hand to assist with the facility’s needs will help to alleviate time and stresses from your internal team. 

www.msl-ltd.co.uk

DOORS & WINDOWS

Automatic planning permission also means that local people living close to these new sites would not be able to appeal the decision, should they object.

The importance of relationships

WHAT WILL THE NEW REGULATIONS MEAN FOR HOUSEBUILDERS? In August 2020, the UK Government announced that homes, hospitals, schools, shops and offices would be given automatic planning permission, with the aim to facilitate quicker development of buildings. Here, Nick Cowley, Managing Director at windows and doors manufacturer Euramax, looks at the pros and cons of automatic planning permission and why reliable relationships are crucial throughout the supply chain.

escribed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson as a “radical reform unlike anything we have seen since the Second World War”, the new planning system aims to rid prolonged development approval, create millions of jobs in the construction sector and boost retail and hospitality. According to Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Robert Jenrick, it takes around five years for planning permission to be approved for a new housing development. While this claim has been argued, it can take up to two and a half years to secure planning permission for a development of between 100 to 499 dwellings. While the new system hopes to shorten these lead times, it can be seen to bring both advantages and disadvantages to the construction industry.

The pros

The cons

The aim of the new system is to streamline the development approval process, and to increase the number of homes that can be built. The UK requires around 300,000 homes to be built each year by 2025, in order to alleviate its housing crisis. Automatic planning permission removes much of the administration a site must endure before work can begin. This means that the volume and speed of which houses are built each year can increase, helping the sector to reach its building target. With more houses being built, this also gives more first-time buyers the opportunity to get onto the property ladder – another factor influencing the housing market.

Despite productivity benefits, homeless charity Shelter and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) have scrutinised the system. Shelter has expressed concerns that this could lead to poor-quality housing in areas without adequate public services. The charity also stated that between 2011 and 2016, 280,000 homes received planning permission, but were never built. RIBA President Alan Jones has called for the Government to “urgently reconsider” this change. Furthermore, many architects have expressed concerns that the system fails to address the root causes of the housing crisis. Architect Charles Holland believes that the new system does nothing to “guarantee the delivery of affordable, well-designed and sustainable homes”.

To address concerns of housing quality, it’s vital to secure relationships with reliable contractors, manufacturers and suppliers. Any professional working on a new housing project, with or without planning permission, must be compliant with relevant standards and certifications. For example, The British Standards Institution (BSI) is responsible for improving the quality and safety of products using the British Standards. BSI claims that, according to an independent survey in 2015 of 1000 adults, “almost two-thirds of consumers believe the Kitemark (its certification logo) is an indication of quality and associate it with products that are tried and tested”. Other certifications include the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA), which monitors Building Regulation compliance and aims to improve window and door replacement standards across the UK. FENSA provides proof that window and door installations comply with quality standards, and is essential when selling houses. Working with certified, reliable suppliers means that every professional within the supply chain can be assured that products meet stringent third-party standards – improving the project development and quality of the build. Euramax is one such supplier that manufactures windows and doors to BSI Kitemark standards for the building, construction and modular industries, to guarantee both quality and quantity to new development projects. The lack of housing and its subsequent public buildings has become a major cause for concern in the UK. Although some have criticised the system, automatic planning permission could eliminate the roadblocks preventing the 300,000 homes target being met. Whether you’re in favour, or against, ensuring reliable supplier-builder relationships will be key to delivering quality throughout the building process. 

www.euramaxuk.com

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TECHNICAL FOCUS

DON’T DESTINE RETROFIT TO FAIL The Government’s green retrofit campaign – driven by its net-zero carbon target and embodied by PAS 2035 – will be time and money wasted if buildings don’t have the fabric fixed first. Hudson Lambert, Director of Safeguard, explains why this is so important in the case of cavity wall insulation.

he Government – thanks to its 2019 commitment to achieving a net-zero carbon economy by 2050 – is pressing for a massive upswing in energyefficient domestic retrofit projects. The thinking is that as it’s too difficult to decarbonise our energy supply, we need to make our homes more energy-efficient, as in 2017 they accounted for 13% of the UK’s carbon emissions. Carbon neutrality is not the only motivation. In 2017, there were over 2.5 million households in fuel poverty and with only 10% of those households in homes with an energy efficiency rating of C or above. This drive to retrofit for energy efficiency sits under PAS 2035 Retrofitting Dwellings for Improved Energy Efficiency, which is designed to underwrite installation quality and the competence of the installers, and that any works undertaken are complementary. It is intended that these works are funded under the ECO obligation, although there is doubt that the monies available will be sufficient

to cover the estimated 19 million properties that would benefit from them. Alongside PAS 2035, we now have the Green Building Grant which – like the new retrofit standard – relies on TrustMark as a hub for those sourcing tradespeople. However, the Government should be mindful of the patchy history of these schemes where ill-advised, hasty or poorly thought-through measures have actually resulted in more property problems than they have solved. All the types of energyefficiency measures likely to be installed – primarily external wall insulation (EWI), cavity wall insulation (CWI) and internal wall insulation (IWI) – have the potential, where a building is in poor condition and/or damp is already present, to ‘seal in’ problems for the future. These problems can include: EWI insulation installed on top of damp walls, exacerbating the issue; damp and mould growing behind IWI; poorly installed CWI that has caused damp; and rotting

floorboards as homes have been made airtight leaving no way for condensation to escape. Therefore, it is a significant imperative to consider, detect and treat even the most minor cases of damp prior to moving forward with any of these programmes. Failure to do so will result in waste, expense, inconvenience and – possibly – homes that are even less accommodating to residents than before, thanks to exacerbated damp problems. The main system to consider in terms of its problematic potential is CWI – largely as it is the most cost-effective of the three measures available and most accessible in installation terms. And with up to five million homes with cavity walls still to be insulated, the market – and waste – opportunity is massive. CWI is a highly-effective measure that improves the energy efficiency of housing stock and cuts carbon emissions. Cavity walls were introduced primarily as a means of defending homes from penetrating damp caused by heavy rain. The

thermal performance benefits of cavity walls, though, are hard to establish and cavity wall insulation (CWI) was introduced as a means of improving it. The greatest risk to CWI is penetrating damp – either directly through sodden brickwork, via cracks in masonry or mortar, or through failed pointing. Thus it is vital to survey properties carefully and ensure external walls are in good order prior to installation. This means cracks, mortar losses, poor pointing and other defects need to be rectified first: otherwise CWI will itself become wet through moisture penetration. This not only negates its insulatory properties, it can potentially result in slumping and complete failure. This failure is almost always a function of the installation, rather than the products themselves. Trying to sort out failed CWI afterwards is inevitably expensive – according to a 2015 BRE report, CWI extraction then cost £1500 for a terraced house and £3700 for a semi.

TECHNICAL FOCUS Incidentally, having ensured exterior wall condition is satisfactory, the application of a masonry protection cream – especially on westfacing properties – will also prove beneficial to the overall installation. This allows the wall to breathe, while acting as a water repellent. Apart from underwriting the dryness of the CWI, it can also improve thermal performance of the building as dry walls have better insulating qualities than wet ones – dry bricks have twice the thermal resistance of wet. In cases where CWI has already been compromised by moisture, masonry protection cream can also assist in retrieving the situation – assuming it’s not too late by

allowing the CWI to dry out, albeit slowly, while preventing further moisture ingress. So we must be mindful that, despite the considerable energy benefits CWI bestows, there cannot be an unthinking move to install it without proper consideration of building conditions – we must fix the fabric first. As with EWI and IWI too, this implies a more holistic ‘whole-building approach’ to tackling damp issues is taken – otherwise the Government risks wasting a great deal of time, effort and treasure in energyefficiency measures that may prove to be expensive and futile gestures. 

www.safeguardeurope.com

ACOUSTICS & SOUND

THE IMPORTANCE OF ACOUSTICS IN SCHOOLS It should be well known that excessive noise hinders the academic performance of students. However, it’s an issue often left unconsidered during the construction process, resulting in educational establishments, from primary schools to sixth-form colleges, becoming sonic battlegrounds. Ben Hancock of Oscar Acoustics explores further.

ltimately, acoustics as an ‘afterthought’ is to the detriment of pupils and staff alike and, frustratingly, it’s something easily mitigated if addressed early on in the design process. A recent study found, on average, speech intelligibility in just the fourth row of a classroom is a mere 50%. If students can only hear half of what their teacher is saying, how are they expected to learn and retain information? Not only this, but noise has a negative impact on pupil behaviour, leading to poor attitude and unruliness. With class sizes rising, it’s likely this problem will only get worse.

In 2011, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported noise contributed to 1.7 million years of life lost annually in Europe alone. Unfortunately, its recommendation of 35 decibels (dB(A)) in classrooms for good teaching and learning conditions is frequently exceeded. More locally, a study in Germany found the average classroom noise level to be 65 dB(A). It’s a situation which needs to be remedied fast. Excessive levels of background noise, and reverberation particularly, impact younger children whose listening skills are not as mature, and may

require optimal conditions for hearing and comprehension. This is usually a consequence of sound reflecting off hard interior surfaces. This often results in teachers having to significantly raise their voices to be heard. Significant noise doesn’t just disrupt lessons, it also has an impact on physical health. As noise levels increase so does a teacher’s heart rate, causing stress, which can then lead to serious conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease and diabetes. According to statistics from the Department for Education (DfE), teachers in

England are taking 51,000 sick days a week, costing schools an estimated £75m a year. Stress is a large contributor to this. In the private sector, workers in noisy open offices take 70% more sick days than those working from home. It’s highly likely state sector teachers are suffering the same fate. Poor classroom design also negatively affects teachers nationwide. Anik Hussain, a teacher in Nottinghamshire, highlighted: “Every Monday I teach lessons in a large room, with only hard surfaces and hard furniture. The echoes are a

nightmare, and I can rarely get my voice heard. I always leave school that day with a major headache.” It’s a great example of how noise can ruin a lesson, before taking student behaviour, teacher ability or external sounds into account. To ensure environmental noise pollution doesn’t impact student learning and staff health, head teachers, school governors and local authorities need to put acoustics at the top of the agenda. When consulting architects and specifiers, it should be a priority consideration for a new-build or a refurbishment project.

But there are other innovations which will allow schools to bend the laws of physics to their advantage, stopping problematic echoes. For example, acoustic plaster and acoustic spray finishes, which absorb sound instead of reflecting it, may mean teachers never need raise their voice again, though there will still be no hiding place for inattentive children. Ultimately, teachers and pupils no longer have to suffer in silence (or lack of) as modern acoustic and soundproofing methods can reduce noise and vastly improve the learning environment.

Noise pollution in schools is unnecessary and easily fixable. Many acoustic solutions are costeffective, innovative, simple to install and will make a massive difference to children’s education. More broadly, careful thought has to be given to material specification, as what you choose has a direct impact on the acoustics. Some materials, such as carpets, absorb sound, and soft furnishings strategically placed around a room can also become effective noise mufflers. Hard surfaces such as tiles, plain walls and wooden floors, on the other hand, will reflect airborne noise.

While it may be true the imminent recession may make it harder to implement necessary changes and improvements, classroom acoustics is not a current priority in most schools. I find this difficult to reason. Surely children deserve the best environment for learning, and this includes a classroom where they can clearly hear the teacher’s voice. They should be able to concentrate fully on their education. The answer to the question, ‘can you hear me now?’ should be, “yes, loud and clear!” 

www.oscar-acoustics.co.uk

FIRE SAFETY

BUILDING SAFETY BILL MAKES ALL ACCOUNTABLE Ges Wallace, Managing Director at Evac+Chair International, discusses the draft for the Building Safety Bill and what it could mean for the future of our built environment.

he recent publication of the Government’s draft Building Safety Bill confirms its commitment to putting safety at the heart of all future building design and development. It also ensures that building safety is taken seriously and managed effectively throughout a building’s life. The bill also addresses the question of accountability, bringing clarity to an area that has enabled poor or negligent practice to go unnoticed in the past. The aim of the draft bill is to create a comprehensive set of rules, which will give people living in high-rise buildings more

confidence, so that they will be, and feel, safer in their homes. The much-needed reforms to regulations around building safety were prompted by Dame Judith Hackitt, in the Independent Review of Building and Fire Safety Regulations, following the tragedy of the Grenfell Tower fire in London, in 2017. Hackitt’s review concluded how the whole system needed major reform, and that residents’ safety needed to be a greater priority through the entire lifecycle of a building – from design and construction, through to when people are living in their homes.

FIRE SAFETY The Government accepted the review’s recommendations and this draft bill, alongside the existing Fire Safety Bill and fire safety consultation, sets out a firm ambition to drive through the most significant improvements to building safety in nearly 40 years.

The next steps After a period of consultation and scrutiny, the bill will be introduced to Parliament where it will be examined by a parliamentary committee, who will report with feedback and recommendations before the bill is finalised. The bill will then have to pass through all further stages in parliament, before being presented to the Queen for her formal agreement. Following this, it will then become an Act and the powers come into force. The draft bill will ensure that there will always be someone, known as the Accountable Person, who will be responsible for keeping all residents safe in highrise buildings. They will also

have to listen and respond to residents’ concerns and ensure their voices are heard. Residents and leaseholders will have access to vital safety information about their building, and new complaints handling requirements will be introduced to make sure effective action is taken when concerns are raised. To make sure that Accountable Persons are carrying out their duties properly, the bill proposes a new national regulator for building safety. The new regulator will sit within the Health and Safety Executive and have new powers to raise and enforce higher standards of safety and performance across all buildings. They will also appoint a panel of residents who will have a voice in the development of the regulator’s work. The regulator will have three main functions: to oversee the safety and standards of all buildings, directly assure the safety of higher-risk buildings and

improve the competence of people responsible for managing and overseeing building work. It will operate a new, more stringent set of rules for highrise residential buildings. The new set of rules, contained in the draft bill, will apply when buildings are designed, constructed and then later occupied. At each of these three stages, it will be clear who is responsible for managing the potential risks, and what is required to move to the next stage, enabling a ‘golden thread’ of vital information about the building to be gathered over its lifetime.

Ensuring best practice safety procedures This thorough investigation of what best practice looks like will serve as a benchmark for all multi-storey buildings, whether they are schools, hospitals, offices, museums, cinemas or hotels. This will provide a clear framework for understanding and eliminating

risk for building users, from when the building is designed, to how all kinds of people are managed safely around the building throughout its lifetime. Consideration should be given to all building users, whatever their needs or abilities, and it should be clear at all times who is responsible for their safety, and what they need to do in an emergency. The Hackitt Review, and associated planned reforms to fire and building safety, should go a long way to make the safety of all a part of the culture and language in all discussions around keeping people safe. This will not only mitigate risk for those who design, build and operate multi-storey buildings, but it will also empower those with disabilities or impaired mobility to access services that may previously have had the potential to put them at risk in a fire or other emergency. 

www.evacchair.co.uk

FIRE SAFETY

Martyn Rolfe is Firefly Sales Director at TBA Protective Technologies

COMPARTMENTATION IS KEY FOR FIRE SAFETY Martyn Rolfe, Firefly Sales Director at TBA Protective Technologies, talks to Public Sector Build Journal about the role of fire barriers and explains how the landscape of fire safety has changed considerably since the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

PSBJ: When specifying fire barriers, what’s the most crucial element an architect or specifier should consider? MR: Always check that the correct and current certification for the application you require is in place for the product you are proposing to specify. This is best sourced from the certifying body’s website to ensure that it is up to date and that the product will perform to your requirements.

PSBJ: How effective is compartmentation in limiting fire spread? MR: Flexible fire barriers when correctly installed, and working in conjunction with the compartmentation partitions, are a cost-effective method of extending the compartment line without compromising the overall performance of the partition.

PSBJ: What third-party accreditations should architects and specifiers be looking out for? MR: Architects and specifiers should look for independent UK certification for the manufacturer’s products from one or more of the following certification bodies: IFC, BRE, Fireas, Exova, Warrington or the LPCB.

PSBJ: How essential is it to use a manufacturer-approved installer? MR: It is a recommendation from most manufacturers that an installer’s operatives have undertaken the relevant installation training. It is also often a requirement that the fire stopping or barrier installer’s company is independently certified for its own right to undertake the works. Unfortunately, I have recently witnessed non-compliant installations by untrained installers; this ultimately resulted in the barriers having to be removed and reinstalled, which was disruptive and costly.

PSBJ: What’s the biggest challenge faced by local authorities to ensure fire safety compliance across its assets? MR: I think one of the biggest challenges is probably quantifying the existing problems across the multiple different properties that comprise their estates. It’s then an issue as how best to remediate them where necessary.

PSBJ: In your opinion, how has the Grenfell Tower tragedy affected the landscape of fire protection? MR: It has brought fire protection under intense scrutiny, and has been an example of past failings that must never be repeated. The Grenfell Tower tragedy has directly led to an increase in standards and compliance in fire protection throughout construction.

PSBJ: How easy are fire barriers to retrofit into buildings that are already operational and providing essential services, such as hospitals and schools? MR: It really depends on the local conditions with things such as ease of access, performance required and buildability all being factors that come into play. However, these things notwithstanding, we have several current school and hospital projects that are being retrofitted, and whilst they are challenging, they are proving that they can be installed to a certifiable standard.

PSBJ: In the case of fire barriers, what are their strongest features that guarantee their effectiveness? MR: I believe that the integrity figure (resistance to the passage of smoke and flame) is one of the most important criteria, as potentially this means that the smoke and flames can be contained for up to two hours, which allows the building occupants to escape.

PSBJ: What do you think the future holds for fire protection solutions? MR: I believe that fire protection will become much more regulated, both from an installation and certification of the materials point of view, with further advances to come in new materials and system solutions. There is scope for improving the combination of products to provide more of a one-stop-shop for solutions with every component being tested and certified.

PSBJ: Lastly, is there enough training/CPDs available to architects and specifiers on fire integrity and containment? MR: We believe that there are a raft of suitable training schemes, but it is always worth checking that the CPD has been accredited, and that the products being discussed are certified for use in the proposed applications. We have recognised the need for more education and training and have launched our own CPD with an online version via our website. It can also be delivered to groups virtually, or in person if required. 

www.tbafirefly.co.uk

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FOCUS & INNOVATION

SHINING A LIGHT ON THE WORLD’S LARGEST HANGAR

The hangar cost $251m and was designed by architect firm Ghafari Associates. At over 185m long, 90m wide and 36m high, it took almost three years to build and is the longest clear-span, dual entry aircraft hangar in the world. The clever use of Kalwall means that natural diffused daylight is transmitted deep into the interior space. At the same time, it provides security and additional thermal insulation, thereby reducing the reliance on HVAC systems and artificial lighting. In addition, the Kalwall minimises light pollution out of the building and stops the sun reflecting off the surface. These were both important considerations because the building is sited near busy operating runways. These aspects also helped the new hangar win an honourable mention in the 2019 Airports Going Green Awards. Aesthetically, the Kalwall also works well on this project. The lightweight panels fit seamlessly with the building’s primary steel supports, which positively impacted the bottom line since there was no need for a secondary structural system. The ‘shoji’ pattern of the Kalwall grid also marries up with the exterior cladding and shutter doors, giving the whole building a sense of uniformity. The cladding’s inherent strength and heavy-duty impact resistance make it ideal for secure locations. U-values as low as 0.28W/m2K, equivalent to a cavity-filled solid wall, can be achieved by including translucent silica aerogel within the panels. Options such as explosion venting and blast resistance can be incorporated as required.

A large new hangar for American Airlines has been completed at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport using Kalwall translucent cladding to provide natural daylight to form signature ‘light bars’ at each end.

www.structura-uk.com/kalwall 01233 501504 mail@structura.co.uk

PRESTON MEDICAL FACILITY SAFE BENEATH FIREFLY APOLLO LITE FIRE BARRIERS

MARMOX MULTIBOARD MAKES IDEAL RENDER BACKER FOR SURREY CONVERSION The redevelopment of a large agricultural homestead at a farm in the Surrey commuter belt has seen the main contractor make full use of the technical benefits offered by Marmox Multiboard. One of the company’s Founders, Charlie Cooke, recounts: “As a company involved in projects across the south east, we undertake a lot of refurbishment work and have used Multiboards on a number of occasions – mainly as a tile backer – so when it came to this conversion we decided they might be ideal to carry the new render finish. Marmox offered us all the technical guidance we required, including comprehensive installation instructions, and our operatives found the boards very easy to install using the special washers and sealant.”

The roof space of an existing commercial property in the north west of England has been given the added protection of having its very large roof space sub-divided using the APOLLO Lite 30:30 system manufactured by TBA FIREFLY. The work within the 30-year-old Spa Medica building near Preston was carried out by Northamptonshire-based DC Fire Protection, a long-term customer of TBA FIREFLY, after the manufacturer had been asked to survey the structure and provide a suitable specification for upgrading the fire performance of the roof. The APOLLO Lite 30:30 was recommended because it has been developed for use in vertical separation or compartmentation situations, offering 30 minutes’ integrity and insulation, thereby exceeding the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations.

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CROWN PROVIDES A NEW LOOK FOR VICTORIAN SCHOOL Grove Road Community Primary School, which is one of Harrogate’s oldest schools, has recently refurbished its main reception using a selection of high-performance paint solutions. To keep the newly-painted reception area looking clean and brighter for longer, Crown Trade’s Clean Extreme Ultimate Opacity Scrubbable Matt was used, with Crown Trade’s Acrylic Eggshell applied to the skirting boards, door frames and woodwork. To reflect the heritage of the building, the school opted for the main walls of the reception area to be painted in the classic blue shade of Victorian Eclectic 15 from Crown Trade’s Historic and Classic Collection.

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FOCUS & INNOVATION

HARLEQUIN FLOORS ANNOUNCES A NEW IMPROVED HARLEQUIN CASCADE Harlequin, a world leader in advanced technology floors and dance studio equipment for the performing arts, is launching a new, improved version of its flagship vinyl dance floor, Harlequin Cascade.

Harlequin has partnered with BioCote, a market leader in antimicrobial technology, to create Cascade with BioCote antimicrobial protection. BioCote antimicrobial technology is manufactured into the new Harlequin Cascade, creating a dance surface upon which microbes, such as bacteria and viruses, cannot survive. Steve Green, Harlequin Group Marketing Director, says: “Harlequin Cascade has been the choice of the world’s most prestigious dance and performing arts companies for many years because dancers know and trust the floor. “But in these difficult times, it is more important than ever to focus on improving hygiene in the dance studio, so we are launching our new Harlequin Cascade with built-in antibacterial protection. “The BioCote antimicrobial technology works constantly to reduce the presence of microbes on the surface of the floor. The result is a floor which is easier to keep hygienically clean, so reducing the risk of cross contamination.” BioCote antimicrobial protection uses silver ion technology, which is manufactured into new Harlequin Cascade and is proven to offer protection for the expected lifetime of the product. Unlike some antibacterial protection, it will not wear out or wash off. This technology reduces microbes on the floor by up to 86% in 15 minutes and up to 99.99% in 24 hours. It works continuously and has been proven effective against a wide range of microbes including influenza A virus (H1N1) and feline coronavirus (strain Munich).

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THE GO-TO EXPERT FOR STEEL WINDOW REPLACEMENT AND REFURBISHMENT Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) is a family-managed business now into its third generation and 60th year as a specialist steel window refurbishment and replacement company. It has evolved continuously since 1960 and is now a leading figure in the steel window industry. ASWS has been a member of the Steel Window Association since the late 1980s working to optimise expertise in the industry. Since the mid-1980s, after the former proprietor retired from the business and the current management team took over, the company has grown considerably and moved into a more specialised field; that of replacement, refurbishment and redecoration of steel windows encompassing a complete site package. Over time, the specialised area of work became prestigious heritage landmark buildings. Since the third generation of the family joined the business, ASWS has enjoyed even larger and more prestigious projects. Part of the company ethos is the continual support and guidance for clients which invariably results in a successful conclusion to projects.

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FOCUS & INNOVATION

THE ZARGES PAXTOWER – ONE SOLUTION FOR ALL WORK AT HEIGHT NEEDS

DIY PATIO MAKEOVER Long Rake Spar provides high-quality, dried and screened aggregate granules and sands into resin-bound surfacing. Its Grantex range of decorative aggregates were recently used on a residential patio in Wiltshire. The homeowners opted to overlay the new resinbound surface over their pre-existing sandstone slabs. It was after careful consideration and various movement checks that it was decided to overlay, to keep costs down and because they felt otherwise the task would be too large to complete. They chose to use SureSet’s 6mm Cappuccino material, which was chosen from the Natural Aggregate DIYPack Range.

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The new PAXTower with folding base by ZARGES UK, a leading access equipment specialist, is equipped with a raft of timesaving and safety-enhancing new features and is fully compliant with the latest safety regulations. The ergonomic and sturdy design, in accordance with the latest EN1004 specification, ensures safe working at height at all times. The PAXTower will be available in two build methods – Through the Trapdoor (3T) and Advanced Guardrail (AGR), with the option to build up to a platform height of 5.6m to 7.65m. Its 1.80 x 0.72m platform can withstand loads of up to 208kg.

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AIRTECH HELPS LANDLORDS TACKLE CONDENSATION AND MOULD Boasting patented market-leading ventilation technology that improves resident comfort and efficiency, Airtech can offer landlords the correct solution for individual properties. This can range from the Air+ Loft Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) and Air+ Wall PIV units to the environment sensing bathroom and kitchen fans, such as the SA25 SELV, the SA60 SELV and the SA64. Plus, Airtech’s unique control and datalogging ventilation products, the DataFan range including the DA25, DA60 and DA64, will record details of a home’s environment, such as humidity and temperature levels, to allow the landlord or contractor to track and analyse the correlation of these variables together on one graph. This will allow a landlord to clearly track the effects changing lifestyle habits have on a home environment.

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ANTIMICROBIAL GLASS READY FOR LAUNCH AFTER OBTAINING THIRD-PARTY VERIFICATION A new coated glass product, designed by the NSG Group, to help reduce the transmission of microbes via surfaces in shared spaces and public transport, is ready for launch after its antimicrobial properties were verified through independent third-party testing. The launch of the new glass product, Pilkington SaniTise, follows the glass giant’s Lancashirebased R&D team fast-tracking its research into antimicrobial coatings in the wake of the pandemic. The work was supported by testing at leading UK universities. Pilkington SaniTise is a transparent coated glass that’s activated through UV radiation. When the glass is exposed to UV light, its antimicrobial activity is significantly increased compared to using uncoated glass.

www.pilkington.co.uk/sanitise

F. BALL SUPPORTS MAJOR HOSPITAL REFURBISHMENT High-performance products from F. Ball and Co. have been used to install safe and hygienic flooring as part of a major refurbishment. RSW Projects was commissioned to install 1845m2 Tarkett Safety vinyl sheet throughout Riverside Hospital, in Brentford, Middlesex. To provide a perfectly smooth base, contractors applied F. Ball’s Stopgap 1200 Pro highperformance smoothing underlayment. Once cured, contractors proceeded to install Tarkett Safety vinyl sheet floorcoverings throughout the 1050m2 floor in clinical rooms and corridors, using F. Ball’s Styccobond F46 adhesive. On the first floor, where a plywood subfloor had been installed, contractors selected F. Ball’s Stopgap 700 Superflex fibre-reinforced, flexible levelling compound to prepare the subfloor. They first primed the surface using Stopgap P131 primer.

www.f-ball.co.uk

01538 361633

DEVELOPER CHOOSES OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION FOR NEW HOUSING FOR HOMELESS FAMILIES Premier Modular, a leading offsite construction specialist, has been awarded the contract to provide modular housing for homeless families in Barking who are in urgent need of accommodation. The new homes are developed by Be First, the regeneration arm of Barking and Dagenham Council. The £1.5m contract will provide 20 two-bedroom apartments in two blocks. The use of an innovative offsite solution has reduced the programme to just 15 weeks for the procurement, manufacturing and fitting out of the apartments, installation on site and commissioning. The apartments will be fully finished at Premier’s factory in East Yorkshire and delivered to site complete with bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, partitions, doors, windows and external cladding.

www.premiermodular.co.uk 0800 316 0888 info@premiermodular.co.uk

mail@f-ball.co.uk

FOCUS & INNOVATION

COMMUNICATION KEY TO NATIONWIDE “RAISING THE BAR EVEN HIGHER” Clear communication has been key to companies making a safe return from lockdown restrictions enforced by COVID-19. Acting with “integrity and professionalism”, the measures taken by Nationwide Windows have been described as “clear and concise” and praised for raising “the bar even higher”. “Nationwide were very proactive in sending us information early on from the onset of the coronavirus outbreak and throughout lockdown concerning the COVID-19 measures that they were adopting,” says Katie Waller, Programme Manager at Saxon Weald. “They managed to reassure us, as a client, that they were following Government guidelines, had put specific contingency plans in place and gave us further information and links to their website. The videos that they produced were both straightforward and informative, and offered comfort in their processes at this worrying and unusual time. “We have always been impressed with the way that Nationwide acts with integrity and professionalism. However, their recent communications have raised the bar even higher.” Mark Lewis, Senior Commercial Manager at Sovereign, commented: “Nationwide has tackled this very difficult period with their usual excellent levels of communication and prompt responses. “The decision to use videos as an aid for both staff and households was an innovative action that has been received really well. All requests by Sovereign have been dealt with in a ‘can do’ attitude by Nationwide. “Nationwide are one of the leading contractors when dealing with change and new challenges with clear and concise guidance, method statements, risk assessments and preconstruction phase plans.” Dante La Bella, Customer Services Manager at Abbey Developments, added: “Nationwide’s service is very efficient indeed, even through these difficult times, and communication is always excellent.”

“It was obvious to us from a very early stage that we needed to keep in regular contact with our customers and keep them informed of all the steps we were taking to make a safe return to operations,” says John Whalley, Nationwide Managing Director. “It’s great to receive feedback like this as it shows that we’ve tackled this difficult situation in the best way possible in order to safely service our customers’ needs.”

www.nwd.co.uk 01788 224466 enquiries@nationwidewindows.co.uk

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