PSBJ November 2018

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November 2018

A NEW BREED OF SCHOOL DESIGN A new approach to delivering highquality, low-energy schools has been established in Carmarthenshire, Wales

A modular prescription

Confronting regulations

The rise of PV

How the revival of modular solutions is helping NHS Trusts get back on their feet

Do the Government's Approved Documents for Building Regulations Part B go far enough?

How developers and housebuilders have seen past the 'add-on' connotation of PV

Inspired by adventures outdoors.

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Welcome Note Editor

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Two new Passivhaus schools have completed under Wales' Patrwm 21 model.

See page 08.

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Welcome to the November issue of PSBJ...

Take yourself back to May 17th this year, when Dame Judith Hackitt published her Final Report of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety. One crucial detail the report fell short of was the ban of combustible cladding which, following the catastrophic events of 14th June 2017, caused turmoil across the nation. Now fast-forward post-Grenfell to autumn 2018. The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, James Brokenshire, is waiting in the wings to deliver the much-anticipated news that a combustible cladding ban is on the horizon for all new residential buildings above 18m – including schools, care homes, student accommodation as well as hospitals – following the Conservative Conference in Birmingham on 24th September.

It's taken the Government 15 months since the Grenfell tragedy to ban combustible cladding, and while the Government's lengthy, overdue prohibition is a belated welcome to all, the message hasn't appeared to go far enough. Reports flew in the morning after the announcement, with the majority of the questioners from the Fire Brigades Union (FBU). The FBU's General Secretary, Matt Wrack, stated: “This is not the outright ban on combustible cladding that firefighters have been calling for. The Westminster Government continues to allow cladding of limited combustibility for any building work in the future. The FBU called for a universal ban on these flammable materials.” The issue remains, however, with existing buildings enveloped in combustible cladding and those buildings that fall below the boundary of 18m.

Challenging Building Regulations even further, Freddie Collins of Kidde Safety Europe talks to PSBJ this month concerning the Government's new draft of Approved Documents for Building Regulations Part B (England). Here, Collins analyses Approved Document B (AD B) and Category LD3 of BS 5839 Part 6 and pinpoints invalidations between the two recommendations. Turn to page 20 to read up on Collins' analysation.

I hope you enjoy this edition. Don’t forget, you can also access all of the magazine’s features, product news and supplier information at your fingertips via Public Sector Build Journal’s state-of-the-art app. To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘PSBJ’ on Google play or the App Store.

Rebecca

Rebecca Kemp | Editor | rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com Follow us on Twitter:

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Contents

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

08 Upfront As part of Welsh Government’s Patrwm 21 (Pattern 21) model under the Welsh 21st Century Schools investment programme, a duo of Passivhaus schools have been completed in the Welsh county of Carmarthenshire. Here, Architype talks through the schools’ savings so far.

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14 Housing

20 Legal & Business

24 Education

“We must be listening, learning and better understanding the challenges facing our customers,” tells Commercial Sales Director of Epwin Window Systems, Andrew Reid, as he breaks down the findings from Epwin Group’s recent ‘Building For the Future’ survey.

Kidde Safety Europe’s Managing Director, Freddie Collins, dissects the redraft of Approved Document B (AD B). Here, he looks at invalidations between Category LD3, BS 5839-6 and the newly-updated draft and offers his theory on how this can be resolved.

The Master Locksmith Association’s Technical Manager, Justin Freeman, offers educational facilities top security advice on keeping their establishment and students safe and secure.

Turn to page 24 for the Master Locksmith Association’s guidance.

16 Healthcare

22 Talking Point

28 Technical Focus

Helen Revitt, Regional Director and Health Sector Lead at AHR, explains why the healthcare sector is frequently turning to modular solutions to produce high-quality estates in short timescales.

Paddy Murphy, Managing Director at Aggregate Industries’ Contracting Division, examines how data-driven approaches are helping to meet the Government’s ambitious road improvement plans across the nation.

The issue of subsidence is one that affects many properties across the UK. Here, leader of ground engineering, Mainmark, talks of modern-day solutions for building subsidence and what causes sinking foundations.

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Contents

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22 30 Leisure

38 Fire Protection

Createability has completed an overhaul on the Bath Sports and Leisure Centre. Managed by GLL, on behalf of Bath & North East Somerset Council, the tired 1960s building has seen usage figures increase an astonishing 71%.

Nick Rutter, Chief Product Officer at FireAngel, explains how IoT is transforming the fire safety technology market and reveals how advancements have prompted the alarm specialist to progress to cloudbased safety equipment.

32 Doors & Windows With the craze of wellbeing hitting the headlines over the past couple of years, Chris Coxon, Head of Marketing at Eurocell, looks at how house-builders are following in the steps of their peers within the education and healthcare sectors with daylighting elements.

36 Damp-Proofing Sika Watertight Concrete has formed part of the waterproof solution to safeguard a basement car park against damp and water ingress at a retirement village in Berkshire.

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42 Renewable Technology Paul Hutchens, Director of Eco2Solar, explains how solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have moved away from being considered an ‘add-on’ within the house-building industry and are now seen as an integral part of the housebuilding process.

46 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.

design standards. Celebrating affordable homeownership on schemes with no more than 30 units, the ‘Best Small Development’ award required prospective nominees to submit an entry which included a range of elements, including a brief summary of the scheme, imagery and floorplans.

2000 school places across East of England created Local authorities across the East of England have been tasked with creating thousands of new school places ready in time for the new school term, in a drive to meet the swelling demand of admissions being received from growing communities across the region. More than 2000 of these new places have been delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure, through a mixture of both new-build and expansion developments. Across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire, the construction company has handed over seven new school buildings and two school expansions ready for the new academic year.

Skillcrown wins accolade for ‘Best Small Development’ Skillcrown, alongside housing association Wandle, was honoured to take home the award for ‘Best Small Development’ at the National Housing Awards 2018. The accolade was for the company’s Hillingdon Street development, which was announced at the prestigious ceremony on 6th September at London’s Grosvenor House, and presented to Skillcrown for its contribution to enhancing the local area as well as meeting both high levels of environmental and

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41 affordable rent homes unveiled in Runcorn, Cheshire

£3.6m ‘state-of-theart’ leisure scheme starts on site Work on a ‘state-of-the-art’ £3.6m leisure development in Grantham, Lincoln, has begun on site with a ground-breaking ceremony. The 20,000ft2 site, once completed, will house a five-screen, 650-seat cinema which will be operated by Savoy Cinemas, as well as two retail units. The development forms part of the wider regeneration of Grantham town centre and will include the provision of an improved public realm. Leading property, construction and infrastructure consultancy Pick Everard is acting as quantity surveyor and NEC contract supervisor. The project has been procured via the Scape Regional Construction framework, with construction company G F Tomlinson delivering the build.

Futurebuild announces expansion plans for 2019 In a move that reinforces and reflects the growing confidence and sense of purpose behind Futurebuild, Futurebuild Events has announced it is increasing floor space in 2019 by 20%. The event is expanding due to unprecedented demand and a record number of rebookings following ecobuild 2018. The expansion will see the introduction of a host of new, innovative features and exhibits, further cementing Futurebuild’s position as the leading event for built environment professionals. The increased floor space makes way for a number of major new pavilions, including Made in Britain, ADE and Mindful Materials.

A new development of more than 40 affordable rent homes has been unveiled in Runcorn with developers naming part of the site in memory of former local Councillor John Swain. Halton Housing worked in partnership with Warringtonbased property consultancy PDW on the site, with one of the streets being named ‘Swain Close’ to honour the work of the former Halton Housing Board Member and Councillor, who served the local community for more than 20 years before sadly passing away in 2012. Located in the Grangeway area of Runcorn, the two-acre site includes a mix of one- and twobedroom apartments, and two- and threebedroom houses, as well as a bungalow and a large community green space.

Tang Interiors appointed to deliver NHS fit-out project Tang Interiors has delivered a highquality office refurbishment for the NHS in Wiltshire. The project was part of a scheme to relocate NHS England’s office base in Chippenham to Jenner House and was led by NHS Property Services (NHSPS).

Savills' building and project consultancy team was appointed to project manage the refurbishment of the 1200m2 space, while Tang Interiors was successful in an NHSPS tender process to deliver the fit-out itself. The refurbishment took 10 weeks to complete, ready for NHS England to relocate to the bright, modern environment in the summer. The 1200m2 space at Langley Park was stripped out by Tang Interiors and fitted with new glazed offices, an open-plan workspace with breakout area, new air conditioning and contemporary finishing touches.

Rooftop development as public sector housing shortage solution

Carter Jonas, the national property consultancy, has secured planning permission on behalf of private residential developer Willco Properties from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council for a new student accommodation development in Surrey. Willco Properties has an ongoing relationship with the University of the Creative Arts (UCA) to provide high-quality student accommodation across Epsom.

The six-storey, 99-bedroom development, known as Bradford House, will also include 2384ft2 (221.5m2) of Grade A office space and basement parking. It will replace the ageing, vacant office building located on East Street. Architect firm Geoffrey Sloan Associates has designed the new building.

There is considerable interest in the provision of rooftop housing developments (RTD) to help alleviate the housing crisis, however, a seminar by Pellings warned that careful planning is required. Nigel Goddard of Pellings and one of the speakers at the seminar emphasises this point: “Following the Mayor of London’s support of RTDs and the recently published NPPF guidelines stating that planning authorities support well-designed and appropriately-scaled RTDs, there is a clear opportunity to create more residential units on top of existing housing.

But it is not like building on a cleared site. You can think of RTD as a new-build project with its foundations many metres in the air and as the extension of an existing building, and the solution requires skills and experience from both perspectives.”

Architecture Initiative wins planning for education-led scheme in Ealing Ealing Council has approved plans for a mixed-use scheme in Acton, West London, comprising a 1200-place school and 113 residential units, including 25% affordable housing. Designed

by Architecture Initiative, Ark Soane Academy will accommodate 900 secondary students alongside a 300-place sixth form, providing much-needed education places in the borough. This regeneration project represents the first major mixed-use, education-led scheme in Ealing and the first time that residential development has been positioned above a school in a well-designed integrated arrangement within the borough. Plans have been approved on behalf of clients LocatED and the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and involve demolishing the former Acton and West London College buildings to make way for the new school and residential development.

of one of the city’s most anticipated new commercial properties. Once finished, the modern, fit-for-purpose office space will accommodate HM Revenue and Customs and NHS Digital. The two organisations will share the space as part of the Government Hubs Programme to transform the civil service into a modern employer. Attended by representatives from HMRC and NHS Digital in addition to contractor, Wates Construction, and the team at MEPC Wellington Place, the celebration marks not only the completion of the steel frame construction but also the start of the next phase of the build with the installation of the facade, helping to visually cement its position in the Leeds city skyline.

News

Carter Jonas secures planning for student accommodation

CPMG Architects Work set to start on Market Walk extension scoops two regional RICS awards Work to extend a Lancashire shopping centre started in October with Eric Wright Group’s construction arm carrying out the £12m development. Shopping centre owner Chorley Council has been working on plans to extend Market Walk for a number of years with the diggers rolling in last month. The eight-unit development will see an M&S Foodhall, a six-screen Reel Cinema, restaurants and other new businesses come to the growing market town. The council has worked closely with Eric Wright Group on preparing the town centre for the changes with a new decked car park, the demolition of buildings to create a new single-level car park and major public realm improvements to match the new developments with the rest of the town centre.

Final steel added to Leeds Government hub Developer and asset manager, MEPC, has celebrated the topping out of buildings seven and eight with a steel signing event – marking a major milestone in the build

CPMG Architects has scooped two prestigious Design Through Innovation Awards at the regional RICS Awards.

The design teams behind the Aerospace Integration Research Centre (AIRC) at Cranfield University and the STEMLab at Loughborough University have been recognised for delivering exceptional building designs which have had a positive impact on communities. The flagship AIRC scheme scooped the East of England Design Through Innovation Award, and the STEMLab took the honour for the East Midlands. Both projects will now compete to be overall category winner at the national RICS Awards 2018 Grand Final, to be held in London in November 2018. Nick Gregory, Director for CPMG, said he was proud of the teams who had been integral to making these projects a success. “Cranfield University’s Aerospace Integration Research Centre is a flagship scheme that we were very proud to be involved in,” he said. “The £35m centre is already helping to change the future design of aircraft.”

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Upfront

Project: Patrwm 21 model Location: Carmarthenshire, Wales Architect: Architype

FACT FILE: Location: Ysgol Trimsaran; Trimsaran, Ysgol Parc y Tywyn; Burry Port

All photographs ©Phil Boorman

Type of project/use: Two primary schools with community facilities Client: Carmarthenshire County Council Architect: Architype Main contractor: Dawnus Construction Landscape and planning consultant: The Urbanists Structural engineer: WSP M&E consultant: WSP Selected subcontractor and supplier: Cygnum Timber Frame Funding: 21st Century Schools Programme Specific environmental targets: Ysgol Trimsaran; Passivhaus, Ysgol Parc y Tywyn: Passivhaus and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ Start on site date: Ysgol Trimsaran; August 2016, Ysgol Parc y Tywyn; May 2017 Completion date: Ysgol Trimsaran; August 2017, Ysgol Parc y Tywyn; July 2018 Form of contract and/or procurement: Design and build Total cost: Ysgol Trimsaran; £6.3m, Ysgol Parc y Tywyn; £8.5m Airtightness levels: Ysgol Trimsaran; 0.38ach, Ysgol Parc y Tywyn: 0.41ach Predicted energy demands: ≤ 120kWh/m2. Yr.

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TWO NEW PASSIVHAUS SCHOOLS COMPLETE IN CARMARTHENSHIRE

A new way of delivering high-quality schools is proving that investment in children’s wellbeing in Wales is paying off. The £8.5m Ysgol Parc y Tywyn project provides 350 school children from the Burry Port area with an outstanding new learning environment. The project is the second of two new-build Passivhaus schools, designed by Architype, to be completed within the academic year for Carmarthenshire County Council, with the first, Ysgol Trimsaran, becoming occupied in September 2017. are the T hefirstschools built products of the innovative Patrwm 21 model; a Passivhaus patternbook approach for delivering schools under the Welsh 21st Century Schools investment programme. Patrwm 21, (Welsh for Pattern 21) was developed by design and construction specialist Dawnus Construction, Architype and WSP, who collaborated to answer Welsh Government’s desire to achieve better educational outcomes from the 21st Century Schools programme. The model aims to maximise capital investment, while delivering consistently high-quality and sustainable

environments for pupils and teaching staff through the Passivhaus standard, as well as complementing the other agendas of Welsh Government, including the Well-being of Future Generations Act 2015.

The model has been developed to offer a BIM-ready, Passivhaus-compliant school solution that can be tailored to the individual needs of a brief; providing consistency in cost, quality and sustainability outcomes. The method offers local authorities in Wales, and potentially across the UK, outstanding whole-life value through radically reduced construction, operational and

maintenance costs; up to 80% less than standard Building Regulations. The rigorous fabric first approach of the Patrwm 21 model will support Wales’ ambitions to promote healthy building environments for users, providing stable temperatures and excellent air quality.

The first school delivered by the Patrwm 21 team for Carmarthenshire CC, Ysgol Trimsaran, has been in use since September 2017, where energy bills have demonstrated a 75% cost saving over the eight-month occupation period, compared to standard new-build BREEAM ‘Excellent’-  rated school.

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Upfront

Sharon Owen, Headteacher at Ysgol Trimsaran, commented: “It is spacious, light and airy and has improved pupil’s pride and self-esteem. The temperature is constant thus improving concentration levels.� She also remarked that attendance had significantly improved since occupying the new school, with

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some parents reporting that children had become less reliant or stopped using inhalers.

The first two Patrwm 21 Passivhaus schools have been delivered for an uplift in capital cost of just 6%, with payback expected to be achieved within the first two years of occupation.

However, with the P21 team

being appointed for a further three schools in Powys, applying efficiencies and lessons learned to the legacy of Passivhaus schools means that the next two are on track to neutralise in capital costs, with the fifth school in the series being delivered for less than the national Welsh average for standard schools.

Upfront

WEST ENTRANCE ELEVATION

All drawings ©Architype

SOUTH ELEVATION

WEST ELEVATION – FLYING START

The Patwrm 21 team have worked hard to ensure that standardisation was not limited to the brief, creating uplifting learning spaces and rooting the schools in their rural Welsh context with locally sourced materials that reference the local vernacular, and landscapes

that encourage inside and outside play and learning. The schools have been finished in a pallet of Welsh brick to reflect the area’s heritage in brick production, alongside Welsh larch in both schools in support of the local supply chain and reducing the carbon footprint of the school.

Matthew Morgan, Regional Director of Dawnus, said: “The 21st Century Schools programme is a significant investment by the Welsh Government. As a Welsh company that sustains the employment of over 500 people in Wales, it was important to Dawnus that

we developed a product that delivered WG’s outcomes and provided a reliable source of revenue to our business. We are very proud of the product that we have collaboratively developed with our partners and the support of Carmarthenshire County Council. We look forward to improving our product, delivering social and economic benefits whilst providing better educational environments for our future generations.”

Lee Fordham, Associate Director of Architype, said: “We have worked hard over the years to hone the delivery of our Passivhaus schools. Close monitoring of our built projects confirms to us that this is the best way to design schools; for the people that use them, for the environment, and for the local authority clients.

We are now engaged in our 13th Passivhaus school, and more than ever we realise the importance of having the right delivery team to guarantee success. That is what we have developed with the Patrwm 21 team; a shared vision to get the best results for the project and the best results for the users.”



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Upfront Committed to continuous improvement, the Patrwm 21 team has begun a PostOccupancy Evaluation (POE) and monitoring of the completed schools to inform future projects and disseminate key learnings to the construction industry and policymakers in Wales.

With local authority clients continuing to recognise the cost, health and environmental benefits of the Patrwm 21 model, the consortium is currently working with Powys County Council in the design stage of three further Patrwm 21 schools including Ysgol Bro Hyddgen; a £23m all-through school. 

 www.architype.co.uk

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Housing

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE – SOCIAL HOUSING DESIGN AND BUILD What’s driving change in social housing design and build? Are the factors different now than they were 10 years ago? Epwin Group, a leading manufacturer and supplier of PVC-U windows, doors and fascia systems, has surveyed UK social housing professionals to find out.

T

he ‘Building for the Future’ social housing project tackles these questions, combining the results of this survey with in-depth interviews and desktop research.

Here Andrew Reid, Commercial Sales Director of Epwin Window Systems, discusses the research and some of its findings.

At Epwin Group, we have placed innovation at the heart of everything we do, constantly developing new solutions and technologies to meet the demands of an ever-evolving built environment.

To do this, we must always be listening, learning and better understanding the challenges facing our customers.

Epwin has a proud history of working in social housing, and we have learnt that social landlords have their own unique demands, so we decided to ask them what’s driving change in the design and build of social homes and examine the factors specific to that sector.

The survey asked social housing professionals to score 20 factors for their impact on social housing design and build.

The research project examines the top 10 factors that social housing professionals believe will have the most significant impact on social housing design and build over the coming decade versus the last.

The results

Concerns also exist surrounding the type of homes being developed and whether they meet the needs of our evolving population

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The top 10 factors identified highlight concerns over the ability to deliver the quantity of social housing needed to meet demand.

Many of these factors were also leading concerns of the last 10 years, but are thought to be even more significant challenges for the coming decade.

The top two leading factors remain the same for the coming decade as the last; the lack of land available for development and lower budgets. In both cases, close to 80% of respondents believe they will be significant over the next 10 years; that’s up over 10% from the last.

The demand for housing consistently outstripping supply is also in the top five with close to 70% of respondents identifying it as one of the most significant issues.

These factors combined with the UK’s ever-increasing urban populations (44% consider this significant) and the financial pressure being caused by Welfare Reform (56% consider this significant) are all negatively affecting the ability of social housing providers to develop affordable homes.

As the housing deficit increases every year and house prices are pushed further up, many fear that it is an almost impossible task to meet current, let alone future demand.

Housing One survey respondent commented that the chronic shortage of homes in this country will push house prices and rents further and further up. Spending on housing benefits will continue to increase, and we’ll see the impact of further negative consequences – families being pushed into poverty by housing costs, communities divided by incomes and many people finding themselves further and further away from labour markets and better-paid jobs.

Concerns also exist surrounding the type of homes being developed and whether they meet the needs of our evolving population. The UK’s ageing population is a significant concern for survey respondents (67%), and when you consider the statistics, it’s easy to understand why. The scale of an ageing population is massive – it is predicted that by the mid-2030s, there will be over 16 million older people, with nearly three million of them being over 85.

Although social landlords provide most specialist housing, the pace at which additional units are being developed is vastly outstripped by the growth of the older population.

Building safety was the factor that showed the largest shift in the proportion of survey respondents considering it to be a concern

influencing social housing design and build for the coming decade (67%) in comparison to those identifying it as a significant factor over the last 10 years (28%).

This increase in significance is not surprising when you consider that the Grenfell fire, which tragically killed more than 70 people and left hundreds without permanent homes, remains fresh in the memory and at the forefront of the housing agenda.

The Hackitt review into the fire makes it very clear that poor oversight in the building industry led to a ‘race to the bottom’, and that the current system for implementing fire safety measures if not fit for purpose.

The Government is promising increased funding, and there is a belief that more homes will be built and that improvement of new-build quality will be driven by stricter standards

With concerns regarding quality, safety and the type of homes being developed, the survey has painted a rather bleak picture of UK social housing. However, there is hope, and despite these pressures, some consider the UK to be at a turning point in its delivery of social housing.

The Government is promising increased funding, and there is a belief that more homes will be built and that improvement of new-build quality will be driven by stricter standards.

Many also believe that homes will be built with greater adaptability to suit the needs of our changing population and

that they will be constructed within sustainable communities which better meet the needs of their residents.

One survey respondent commented that housing is now high on the political agenda and in public discussion, and there is a general feeling that building standards and safety will improve, driven by legislative change and greater funding from the treasury, he concluded that it’s unfortunate that it took Grenfell for this to happen. 

 www.buildingforthefuturesocialhousing.epwin.co.uk

The top two leading factors remain the same for the coming decade as the last; the lack of land available for development and lower budgets

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Healthcare

BUILDING A CASE FOR MODULAR HEALTHCARE

Helen Revitt, Regional Director and Health Sector Lead at architecture and building consultancy AHR, explains why the healthcare sector is increasingly embracing modular solutions.

for off-site D esign construction – and the rebirth of modular as a soughtafter delivery mechanism for high-quality buildings – is a development that has inspired much debate.

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There are several reasons for the resurgence of modular construction but there are two especially important factors, which are particularly important to take note of. Firstly, the need to deliver increased

capacity across sectors including healthcare, housing and education has become increasingly urgent. Secondly, the Government’s vision for the future of construction – as outlined in its Construction

2025 strategy – mandates targets that the adoption of modular construction is wellsuited to help achieve.

These big-picture issues have become prevalent while the quality of modular building has improved. Whereas the pre-fabricated housing of the post-War era created a stigma around off-site manufacturing and modular as a construction method, advancements in technology have enhanced our ability to harness the advantages offered by a controlled factory environment – and the result is high-quality buildings.

These improved solutions have not gone unnoticed in the healthcare sector. We have seen increasing support from both Government and senior leadership within the sector for the use of modular buildings to address the huge demand for increased capacity.

Consequently, many of the new wards and operating theatres we see are likely to be modular  – and with good reason.

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Healthcare One of the well-publicised benefits of modular is that it allows for the creation of repeatable elements. This dynamic is ideally suited for the healthcare sector – as many of the structures required need to be designed and built to meet set dimensions. The delivery of a high volume of wards, for which the dimensions remain the same, is a good example of the type of project for which a modular approach can drive significant benefits. Modules can be uniformly designed to accommodate necessary M&E works and, when delivered at scale, significant efficiencies in cost and time can be achieved.

At a time when the health sector faces a huge amount of pressure, meeting expected construction timescales is another important consideration. Traditional processes, with construction taking place on-site, are subject to delays often beyond the control of the contractors involved. Bad weather, for example, can slow progress on site and result in projects being delayed. With off-site

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construction, these potential problems can be negated.

Conducting work in a factorycontrolled environment means problems associated with on-site construction can be nullified and health and safety standards for workers improved. Health and safety concerns at the healthcare estates where new buildings are being delivered can also be reduced due to the fact construction-related hazards are present for a limited time period. This reduction in time on-site also helps to minimise disruption to both patients and staff, who need to be able to continue to use the premises while work is delivered.

Working in a controlled environment also means the quality of the materials delivered can often be higher. In addition to this, the sustainability of the construction process in modular projects can also be improved. The opportunity for recycling to take place within the factory during construction is one aspect to this. Another is the reduction in the noise pollution typical across traditional construction sites.

These sustainability benefits continue from the production process, through to the performance of the buildings themselves. When paired with effective heat recovery and ventilation technology to mitigate the airtight nature of the construction, the use of a modular typology can create healthcare estates with industry-leading energy standards.

A further important facet of modular construction is the incorporation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the cooperation between architects and contractors this technology requires. The use of BIM is significant in modular projects because this technology allows for digital incarnations of the built environment to be realised prior to its physical construction – with all the key components of the building clearly specified.

This is crucial in a modular context, as it allows for greater confidence to be fostered among stakeholders – for whom a modular approach may be unfamiliar. There is greater certainty around what the

delivered elements will be, how they will look, the standard to which they will perform, and the way they will integrate within the existing estate. As decision makers become increasingly aware of modular solutions – this high level of insight is important in building confidence in the approach and its suitability.

The adoption of modular construction also opens up a new option through which architects and construction firms can deliver new buildings for healthcare estates. The increased capacity for delivery that modular alongside traditional construction offers is a key development at a time when the pressures upon the healthcare sector are great.

The cumulative force of these benefits combined helps to explain why modular is increasingly popular generally, and why it is particularly appropriate within the context of healthcare. With widespread support that continues to grow – it may be no exaggeration to say the future of healthcare is modular. 

 www.ahr.co.uk

Legal & Business

Managing Director since July 2017, Freddie Collins has been with Kidde for 11 years.

Kidde celebrated its centenary last year, and the company continues to innovate while developing and manufacturing extensive ranges of carbon monoxide alarms, smoke and heat alarms and other fire safety products. Kidde is part of the United Technologies Corporation (UTC).

CHALLENGING BUILDING REGULATIONS The Government has produced new draft ‘Approved Documents’ for Building Regulations Part B in England, in an attempt to clarify statutory guidance on fire safety guidance. But they don’t go far enough when it comes to smoke and heat alarm provision for housing, says Freddie Collins, Managing Director of Kidde Safety Europe. and heat alarm S moke requirements in Section 1 of Approved Document B (AD B) are based on the Code of Practice BS 5839-6:2013. It defines ‘Grades’ (the reliability of a system in terms of its power sources) and ‘Categories’ (in which areas smoke or heat alarms are required for detection). The current edition of AD B only calls for alarms in escape routes – effectively Category LD3 – plus heat alarms in kitchens open to circulation areas. It also includes specific recommendations on positioning alarms.

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Now, in response to recommendations made by Dame Judith Hackitt following the Grenfell Tower fire, AD B has been redrafted “to improve usability and reduce the risk of misinterpretation”. However, the new Section 1.1 simply states that: “All new dwellings should have a fire detection and fire alarm system, minimum Grade D Category LD3 standard, in accordance with the relevant recommendations of BS 5839-6”, without any further comment. The problem is that Category LD3 falls below the minimum standard in BS 5839-6,

invalidating the proposed use of its recommendations alongside the new AD B. Actually, in BS 5839-6, properties that would require Building Regulation compliance are recommended a minimum Category LD2 (or even LD1 in some cases). Category LD2 means smoke alarms in living rooms, as well as escape routes, and also heat alarms in every kitchen. Furthermore, commentary in BS 5839-6 raises real concerns about the safety of Category LD3. It stresses that: “A Category LD3 system cannot be expected, with any degree of

reliability, to protect people who might be involved with the fire at ignition or in its early stages… and might not, therefore, prevent the death or serious injury of occupants in the room where the fire originates”.

In addition, BS 5839-6 recommends an individual risk assessment where a lower than recommended category is applied (such as Category LD3 for properties requiring Building Regulations compliance). Is this really what the Government intends? There are also dangers in omitting heat alarms from kitchens, as over 60% of domestic fires start there. Despite this, the existing AD B specifically requires heat alarms only in kitchens open to circulation areas. But the new draft AD B makes no reference to heat alarms in kitchens at all, effectively resulting in a further reduction in minimum standards.

All of these issues would be resolved if the new AD B simply called for a minimum Category 2 level of smoke and heat protection. This would not only align with BS 5839-6, but also with current Building Regulations guidelines in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

After all, installation of sufficient, interconnected mains smoke and heat alarms to provide a straightforward, low-cost early warning is an essential first step in making all housing safer. 

 www.kiddesafetyeurope.co.uk

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Talking Point Paddy Murphy joined Aggregate Industries in 2005 and is the Managing Director of Contracting.

DATA AS THE DRIVING FORCE TO EFFICIENCY As the construction industry continues to come under new pressure to deliver incredibly complex road improvement projects within limited budgets and timeframes, innovation has a major role to play in driving efficiencies, improving safety and ensuring delivery. Nowhere was this more prevalent than in the recent works at the M1, Junction 16 to 19, whereby, in an industry first, Aggregate Industries’ Contracting Division took a digital data-driven approach to road surfacing, enabling benefits which included 100% accuracy to specification, along with vastly improved efficiencies and cost savings. Here, Paddy Murphy, Managing Director at Aggregate Industries’ Contracting Division, advises on why, when it comes to the future of road surfacing, data is king. we’ve seen F orhowdecades, ‘big data’ has transformed an ever-expanding list of high-profile industries, including financial services, retail and manufacturing.

However, when it comes to widespread adoption, the road construction industry has for far too long lagged behind, often down to an over-reliance on traditional techniques and a slow uptake in embracing new technology that aids with data analysis.

To put the lack of investment in innovation into context, a recent study by the Government found that investing in the right technology, especially ‘big data’,

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could help solve the construction industry’s escalating productivity gap, helping to deliver £15bn savings each year on key infrastructure projects1.

Fortunately, with the advent of wearable devices, automated machinery and the Internet of Things (IoT) in recent years, more and more contractors in transport construction are slowly starting to realise the benefits and insights that ‘big data’, predictive analytics and real-time data sharing can unlock. Integral to this has been looking at ways technology can help to drive efficiencies, improve safety and ensure best practice.

At the same time, with rapidly-rising numbers of vehicles on Britain’s roads today, the Strategic Road Network (SRN) – the UK’s biggest and single most important piece of infrastructure – faces mounting pressure to significantly raise capacity by the end of the decade, as detailed in Highways England’s £11.4bn, five-year capital programme2.

For road builders, this means a greater onus to deliver the Government’s ambitious road improvement plans in the most cost-effective way possible – and data is increasingly proving the answer.

Paving the way for Smart Motorways While it’s no secret that road construction projects, no matter the size, create a mountain of data; in the past, much of this data was unstructured and siloed – often collected on paper and filed away once a project was completed. As a result, the process of recording, tracking and analysing previous works, has been an arduous and, at times, dangerous one – that is, until now.

Given the rising prominence of data modelling systems such as Building Information Management (BIM), hopefully, the industry is in the throes of a bellwether moment in data collection – with Aggregate Industries leading the way.

To understand how data collection can optimise project delivery, let’s look at recent works on the M1, Junction 16 to 19, Highways England’s £94.1m scheme to upgrade the M1 to a Smart Motorway, which involved creating a running lane that was previously used as the hard shoulder – increasing capacity and improving journey time reliability on this vital route.

Working in collaboration with principal contractor, Costain Galliford Try Smart Motorways JV at the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) stage, we were tasked with realigning the existing

carriageway to form a new all-lane running motorway, by constructing various layers of asphalt along the scheme on the main carriageway and central reservation.

Having worked on other Highways England regions, including Area 4, 7 and 12 of the M1, we used the data collected across these projects to deliver significant improvements in health and safety, quality and output throughout the contract.

Automated data capture In terms of health and safety, one of the biggest challenges the industry faces is making sites safe, given the myriad of hazards involved in managing people and plant interface.

One crucial way to do this was looking at how to minimise risk to employees during pavement construction by replacing the need for a human technician to carry out the highly dangerous task of data capture.

Traditionally, the road surfacing process requires at least one or two technicians with each surfacing gang working manually to gather and record data on everything from material temperatures to ride profile.

During this task, technicians are not only exposed to the dangers of working in close proximity to live traffic and construction vehicles but also face a myriad of other risks including lone working

and hot material interface.

Consequently, the number of serious incidents, including fatalities, across the sector has risen steadily over the years.

Keen to rule out another fatality by overhauling a 30-yearold method that was no longer fit for purpose, there has been a wider industry focus on using automation in machinery. For instance, we have recently developed new state-of-the-art Automated Intelligent Testing (AIT) equipment. By fitting all pavers, rollers and survey vehicles with GPS, infrared sensors and a data recording unit, the data gathering system automatically captures highquality data before, during and after the surfacing process.

Effectively removing the need for technicians in data capture altogether, the AIT system also means that pavers and rollers can be linked together to manage the compaction process, by recording the rolling temperature and the number of passes. Ultimately, this gives an even and consistent compacted material across the whole paved area.

During its trial at M1, Junction 16 to 19, the system compared the required number of roller passes with the GPS records and the mat temperature to verify when rolling is completed, while the roller’s visual display allowed the driver to see where further rolling was required.

Data is king Paramount to data collection, of course, is accuracy. Thus, when data captured from the M1 trials over a 19km stretch was measured against the traditional RSE method, it became clear the laser gives far more data than the RSE, which only records irregularities greater than 4mm. For contractors, this means better and more

accurate data that can be inputted into Building Information Management (BIM) systems in variable useable PMS formats, significantly improving the management of asset data from surfacing.

In addition, this data-capture approach can also be applied to other functions such as future scheme planning, where we have created a shift tracker that records shift-by-shift work undertaken and allocating any lost time by cause.

As the Government continues to put more and more spend behind improving the UK’s road infrastructure, it is an opportune time to finally unlock the full benefits of the latest innovations that road surfacing can offer.

By investing in data-capture facilities like the AIT system, which is currently being deployed across a number of our contracts including the next phase of the M6 Toll Road, the coming years will no doubt see a greater industry reliance on data as the key to paving the way to better, safer and more efficient roads for all. 

Talking Point

Meanwhile, the final element of the AIT procedure was surface texture, and Rolling Straight Edge (RSE) testing of the finished pavement, which using laser scanners and a video was completed with improved accuracy and without the need for a human technician.

In a complete industry first, the M1, Junction 16 to 19 saw data from the product paver/roller, material location and delivery including temperature, tonnage and laser data on texture and ride profile, combined to provide a comprehensive record of the laying process.

The result of this digital data-driven approach to road surfacing was a much easier and more efficient way of managing material movement and the paving operation based on realtime data. Essentially ensuring 100% accuracy of specification and enhanced smoothness of road, equally important is that it demonstrates a clear cost reduction over traditional quality control methods.

 www.aggregate.com https://www.gov.uk/government/news/

1

boosting-construction-productivity-coulddeliver-15-billion-savings-every-year

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.

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uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ attachment_data/file/666857/Strategic_ Road_Network_Initial_Report_Overview.pdf

23

Education

Taking simple steps such as ensuring doors and windows have high-quality locks that conform to security standards is a must

THE KEY TO SAFEGUARDING AND SECURING SCHOOLS Safety in schools and education facilities is a highly emotive subject and one that is never far from the minds of parents, teaching staff, estate managers, caretakers and local education authorities. Here Justin Freeman, Technical Manager of the Master Locksmith Association, offers expert advice on ensuring optimum safety and security of education facilities.

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earning environments are meant to be welcoming and accessible, capable of inspiring and motivating pupils.

They also have a wealth of facilities – be they educational, recreational or sporting – that can be used for the benefit of the communities surrounding them.

However, the inherent challenge in designing and managing a building of this nature is in ensuring that it is open and accessible whilst still prioritising the safety of pupils, staff and visitors, and deterring theft, unauthorised access and vandalism.

Schools and universities are complex buildings. They are required to have adequate escape routes and doors that operate effectively in the event of an emergency, with the correct signage, emergency exit lighting and panic hardware fitted.

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Set yourself up for success From the outset, it is vital that a building is designed for security success. Decisions taken during the design and construction phase will have a significant impact on the way in which occupants use and secure the space into the future.

Schools typically have a significant amount of valuable equipment – items like computers and smartboards, for instance, require a huge outlay and are therefore highly-prized targets for any would-be thieves. Where possible, designing these facilities to be on upper floors or away from windows is a good start.

Practical storage options are also a must and you should consider options for securing equipment together, or to desks.

Be aware that many schools now ask visitors to leave communication devices and technology such as mobiles and laptops in reception when they arrive – therefore, plentiful storage options for staff and visitors is also key.

Taking simple steps such as ensuring doors and windows have high-quality locks that conform to security standards is a must. Similarly, any gates should be fitted with high-quality locks, and you should ensure that fencing is substantial.

Look out for deterioration and breakages to doors, windows, roofs (missing tiles, slates and broken rooflights), wall cladding and exterior skirts to the base of temporary classrooms. Review the perimeter of the property and ensure bin stores, bike sheds or other such structures are kept away from perimeters or fence lines where they can easily be climbed onto and unwittingly provide easy points of access. Similarly, planting and landscaping should be considered carefully, and any trees or large plants that create black spots or could help intruders to access the site should be cut down.

The problem of accessibility is always a crucial point for the security of schools and knowing who has access in an organisation like a school can be difficult. Installing a patented lock system ensures keys cannot be copied without proof of ownership. While initial investment tends to be higher than ‘off-the-shelf’ locks, in the long-run this could potentially save money and is a worthwhile investment in a building of this nature.

Communication is key Once occupied, it is important to establish an effective strategy to ensure that issues relating to security and safety management of the building are addressed and maintained systematically and logically. Critically; all staff, and in some cases students, should be aware of this strategy and understand their role within it.

Schools and universities are complex buildings. They are required to have adequate escape routes and doors that operate effectively in the event of an emergency, with the correct signage, emergency exit lighting and panic hardware fitted. Determining this can be a complicated and time-consuming matter, and those with responsibility should receive relevant and  frequent training.

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Education

prosecuted in the event of a tragedy. However, emergency exits should not be confused with fire doors. Fire doors are designed to hold back fire away from emergency exits for a set amount of time. Adding additional locks to fire doors will compromise how the fire door performs and could also lead to prosecution.

Harness the power of technology – safely

Any gates should be fitted with high-quality locks, and you should ensure that fencing is substantial

With ever-more sophisticated operating systems, smart security can increasingly be integrated with existing CCTV and alarm systems

However, it is all too easy for another member of the team to take on security and safeguarding responsibilities without realising inadvertently. An example we frequently see when visiting schools and universities is a staff member having placed a padlock on an emergency exit door to prevent people from opening it unnecessarily and causing a nuisance; without realising, they are making themselves legally responsible if people are unable to exit a building in the event of an emergency.

Safe security Emergency routes and exits must lead as directly as possible to a place of safety so that in the event of danger, premises can be evacuated as quickly and as safely as possible.

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The number, distribution and dimensions of emergency routes and exits required are determined according to the use, equipment and dimensions of the premises and the maximum number of people who may be present at any one time. Importantly, emergency doors must always open in the direction of escape to aid those evacuating the building.

By their very nature, escape doors may also be vulnerable during break-ins. For this reason, it is acceptable to have extra locks on escape doors – as long as they are fully operational and can still act as escape doors when the building is occupied. If they are bolted, deadlocked or chained, the person responsible for these doors could be

Technology can be a significant help in securing sites, especially in areas with high footfall.

For example, electronic door openers and closers are a reasonably low-cost but useful way to enhance building security. Meanwhile, investing in electronic access control can help caretakers and estate managers to monitor and regulate access to various areas of the site.

Access control systems can range from a very simplistic form of digital code lock (mechanically operated push button locksets) operated by a simple code, right the way through to complex ‘smart security systems’ that enable managers to add or delete users from a central location. Whether operated by fingerprint, swipe card, smartphone or facial recognition, many facilities managers, estate managers and caretakers we speak to have already introduced smart security and it’s easy to see the appeal.

With ever-more sophisticated operating systems, smart security can increasingly be integrated with existing CCTV and alarm systems, and can also be integrated with ‘time and attendance’ systems. Perhaps most useful of all, smart locks are highly configurable. Digital locks can be changed in an instant and records stored of when a lock has been activated and by who. In short, smart security is promising optimum convenience, enhanced security and access to valuable, realtime information.

But be careful to distinguish between access control and primary security measures.

Put simply, the role of an access control system is to limit access to certain parts of

a building or site to specific individuals. However, access control products are not tested to security or attack standards and should not be relied upon as primary security products.

In the case of smart security, it’s the ‘key’ element of a smart lock that is particularly problematic. This is because whether it’s voice, card, tag, smartphone or biometric data that is used to activate the lock, this data is difficult to safeguard. Not least as it is usually stored within web-based storage, such as the cloud, which presents its own risks.

Whilst the UK has for a long time had excellent security standards for mechanical security – including BS 3621, 8621, 10621, BS EN 1303, BS EN 12209 and PAS 24 for complete windows and doors – the first security standards for smart locks have only just been published. As a result, the smart security industry as it is today has developed without this guidance. None of the smart locks currently on the market have yet been tested against the new security standards, and the standards are yet to be recognised by insurers and police forces.

MLA advice The Master Locksmiths Association has to date considered smart security to be a secondary security measure or the equivalent of ‘access control’. Whilst the newlydeveloped security standards come into effect, we would continue to recommend caution and advise against using smart security as a primary security measure. If you are thinking of using smart security for access control, it is also vital that as with any access control equipment you ensure this is used in a manner that complies with the fire safety regulations – it is also vital that the correct fail-safe procedures are in place. If the system were to ever ‘go down’, then there needs to be procedures and products in place that ensure no one is trapped inside and that the system doesn’t put your school out of action due to a fault. 

www.locksmiths.co.uk

Technical Focus

HAVE YOU GOT THAT SINKING FEELING? Mainmark gives advice about why building foundations sink and the advanced repair solutions now available. subsidence F oundation is expected to affect as many as one in five homes in England and Wales in the coming years and has cost the UK economy billions of pounds, making it the most damaging geohazard in Britain today.

Building foundations can sink in response to changes in the ground or movement of the soil that the foundations and footings rest upon. There are a number of reasons why this occurs.

If the ground beneath a building subsides, an expert should be contacted to assess any damage to the building or soils underlying the building.

Traditionally, repair methods for subsidence-related issues were costly and invasive, causing financial and physical disruption.

Nowadays, however, there is a range of advanced solutions available from specialists in ground engineering, such as

28

those at Mainmark. Mainmark can repair the ground beneath a building using quick, noninvasive and cost-effective methods, ensuring minimal disruption to the property and occupants, and helping to reduce the financial burden.

What causes sinking foundations?

If the ground beneath a building begins to subside, large cracks in the walls or gaps between the skirting and floors usually develop, indicating that the structure is moving or sinking.

This can happen for a number of reasons and can occur across specific areas, large or small, over a long period of time or as an immediate reaction to nearby activity or natural events. There are many different factors that can cause the ground beneath a building to subside and these include:

Technical Focus Renovations or nearby construction Local construction work may change the condition of the ground, particularly if excavation is taking place.

Often, a poorly supported excavation can allow nearby soil to slip, causing adjoining foundation ground and footings to sink. Heavy traffic and the vibration of machinery can also move or displace the soil.

Different footing systems These can be found in very old buildings, or in homes with extensions or alterations.

For buildings built on clay soils (this soil will not change its volume unless the water content changes), generally speaking, deeper footings move less seasonally than shallow footings. An addition or extension alongside an existing home may settle differently to the original building, with most of the settlement of new footings typically occurring in the first five years after construction.

Water As water saturates the ground, soil conditions can change. This may be a result of washaway from broken pipes, poorly compacted fill or sloping foundations – causing water to pool – weather events or even seasonal fluctuations in

water level. Clay soils can swell when saturated and shrink when dehydrated.

Tree root Shrubs and roots can also cause problems for house footings particularly if they are close to the property foundations. Property owners should consider the height of the tree, the number of trees close to the property, the root intrusion area and the soil classification on the site to ensure the risk of damage is reduced.

Different types of soil can also impact the structural integrity of the building, for example, gravel and stony ground is highly likely to collapse or move when nearby ground is excavated, causing foundations to shift and, ultimately, subside. Sandy soils are more easily disrupted by water, as the finer particles are washed out of the soil causing a bridging action between the larger soil particles to collapse. As a result of this, the building above can subside.

To repair foundation subsidence, specialist help is required from experts such as Mainmark.

Smart solutions As subsidence continues to become one of the biggest problems affecting buildings in Britain today, it is critical that property owners are aware of the advanced solutions now available, helping to effectively repair the ground to ensure the property stands on stable foundations for many years to come. 

www.mainmark.com/uk

29

Leisure

Project: Bath Sports and Leisure Centre Location: Bath, Somerset Leisure design and build company: Createability

The centre’s main reception was remodelled with a new front of house area, a new staircase, lift and motorised doors

ALL-NEW BATH SPORTS AND LEISURE CENTRE FOLLOWING £8.5M OVERHAUL Createability has finished work on a three-phase £8.5m complete redevelopment of Bath Sports and Leisure Centre that has already seen usage figures jump 71%. overhaul of the tired A n1960s building formed part of the contract bid by GLL when it took over management of the centre back in 2016 on behalf of Bath & North East Somerset Council. Ian Cotgrave, Managing

Director of leisure design and build company Createability, explains: “Additions had been made to the facilities over the years, but it was no longer fit for purpose and the needs of today’s modern families. The old centre consisted

of underused squash courts, a sports hall, a fitness suite and two swimming pools, but it was a very basic offering. GLL wanted to extend the lifespan of the centre and offer better facilities, in line with their ‘Better’ branding.”

Createability was brought in under the company’s framework agreement with GLL to carry out the redevelopment with the remit of keeping facilities open as much as possible to reduce disruption for centre users

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Createability was brought in under the company’s framework agreement with GLL to carry out the redevelopment with the remit of keeping facilities open as much as possible to reduce disruption for centre users.

Cotgrave says: “Our expertise lies in working with live sites, organising works to ensure the facilities stay open as long as possible, keeping revenue loss to a minimum and customers happy. Maintaining continuity of service does throw up challenges as we cannot just turn off the boiler and install another one, for instance.

Everything has to be built alongside the original, so we can switch over services when the centre is closed at night.”

In line with this, the 24-month redevelopment was carried out in three phases. The first, which started in the summer of 2016, saw Createability produce

Leisure massive pile foundations in the underground car park to hold up the floor of the eight-court sports hall, before building a floor-toceiling wall halfway across the main sports hall. Createability was then able to hand back the new four-court sports hall to the centre whilst work began on the other side to create a mezzanine floor, with a brand-new 573m2 fitness suite, kitted out by Technogym, two purpose-built fitness studios and a dedicated 124m2 martial arts studio.

The previous dry-side changing rooms, which consisted of just two showers and a toilet in each facility to cater for more than 3000 members, were replaced with light, modern, fitfor-purpose changing rooms in what was the old gym.

In January 2017, once the fitness studio moved into its new space, phase two began to develop an eight-lane, tenpin bowling alley with a cafe and two-storey kids play structure with three party rooms on the ground floor. At the same time, work started to convert the underused squash courts into a dedicated 914m2 trampoline park complete with battle beam, dodgeball, basketball and wipe-out attractions.

Phase three, at the pool end of the building, included an overhaul of the sports centre’s entrance area, so the main reception was temporarily moved into the bowling alley, which boasts its own access to all the new facilities, to ensure the centre was kept open at all times.

The centre’s main reception was remodelled with a new front of house area, a new staircase, lift and motorised doors, and the entire frontage was rebranded with GLL’s Better brand.

The modernisation has seen pool usage increase by 56% since the works completed

Meanwhile, a new teaching pool was built to accommodate swimming lessons, and the pool hall was refurbished, along with the first-floor viewing gallery that overlooks both the main and teaching pools. The ventilation system was replaced, the entire area was retiled and the lighting upgraded to LED throughout. The old-style male and female wet-side changing facilities were replaced with a light, bright, modern changing village, in line with Sport England’s changing room

guidelines. The modernisation has seen pool usage increase by 56% since the works completed.

“A large part of our projects are never seen by the public,” continues Cotgrave. “Whilst all the work was going on to the facilities that the customers see and use day in, day out, in the main plant room we carried out a further £1m refurbishment, replacing all the M&E for the entire facility, including the pool plant.” 

 www.createability.co.uk

Createability handed back the new four-court sports hall to the centre whilst work began on the other side to create a mezzanine floor, with a brand-new 573m2 fitness suite, kitted out by Technogym, two purpose-built fitness studios and a dedicated 124m2 martial arts studio

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Doors & Windows

THE IMPORTANCE OF LETTING THE LIGHT IN There’s a strong focus on the importance of natural light in the home at the moment, and an increasing number of house-builders are recognising that this aspect of the build is a key requirement of today’s home occupier, writes Chris Coxon, Head of Marketing at Eurocell. public is now far T hebetter educated about the importance of wellbeing and what can be done to improve it.

The conversation started in the educational environment and in the public sector, with new-build schools and hospitals fostering ways in which the actual build could influence the wellbeing of the building’s inhabitants.

It’s a movement triggered by the realisation that the structures that workers, children and patients are based in have an impact on these individuals’ mental health and general levels of happiness.

Health and wellness have become something of an obsession. Intrinsically linked, they are influencing all types of design and architects, builders and developers are engaging with this trend and coming up with more methods to boost natural light – which has been deemed as the number-one solution to improving wellbeing.

We are all governed by our surroundings, and we automatically feel happier and more uplifted in bigger, naturally brighter spaces.

By utilising glass in the roof and having bigger windows, we are also able to enjoy the sensation of being more connected to the outdoors.

The whole concept of ‘bringing the outdoors in’ is one of the greatest badges of wellbeing and a box that many developers are extremely keen to tick – and it’s not just in the workplace or our schools.

The issue of wellbeing is equally relevant in the home, particularly as this is where most of the population spends the majority of its time. It’s been

proven that increasing natural light has a very real and positive effect on a dwelling’s occupants with acknowledged benefits including an increase in the body’s endorphins and serotonin, higher energy levels, greater productivity and better sleep – it regulates the body’s internal clock and is known to improve sleep quality overall.

With over 60% of homeowners rating natural light as the most important feature of a home, according to MyGlazing.com statistics, it’s difficult to overlook.

House-builders need to consider ways to optimise the opportunity for natural light in the home – particularly when the average window size simply isn’t enough or light infiltration through traditional windows is low.

Kerb appeal In some developments – where buildings are developed in close proximity to one another, for example – natural light struggles to get in through traditional windows, meaning house-builders need to find suitable alternatives.

The good news is that there are a number of ways to stand out and create a real ‘wow factor’ while letting the light flood in; windows aren’t the only solution. You can create a stylish, contemporary living space that is filled with natural light and truly transforms a home by adding a skylight to the property. In fact, a window on a flat roof lets in significantly more  light than a vertical window.

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Doors & Windows

Making a statement and increasing height Gone are the days when crestings or finials were incorporated into roof design, architects are now using skylights to make a statement in a property. By opting for a pitched, lantern-style design, you can also increase the height of a room, adding to the illusion of extra space and promoting an open, airy feel, with such products also offering higher levels of natural light than conventional designs of the same surface area.

Available in a range of colour and size combinations, and selfcleaning options, these products are ideal for new builds as they are quick and easy to install and are designed to impress.

They provide a relatively simple solution to letting the light in, with a dramatic, powerful effect that adds a mark of quality to properties.

Cutting costs and saving energy There are other major benefits to specifying roof windows and rooflights, aside from the provision of natural light, which include the contribution that these windows and pitches can make to the thermal comfort of a building and the additional source of ventilation that they also provide.

Any artificial-created living conditions, such as heat and light, are the biggest energy expenditure within the home.

Using modern, energy-efficient glazing can, most definitely, reduce heating bills while the more natural light that can be allowed into a room means less artificial light during daylight hours – an immediate saving as well as being, for most people, the preferred choice.

Once a bold statement for architects and designers, the increased use of glass for rooflights, doors and larger windows is becoming increasingly common.

Developers should consider how they can best utilise products that allow properties to let in as much natural light as possible. 

î˜ą www.eurocell.co.uk

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ASSA ABLOY have launched the Protect family of risk-reducing, security enhanced automatic entrances. Our Swing and Sliding Door Systems have been developed to help design out risk. The Protect Swing Door system is third-party Secured by Design certified, whilst our Protect Sliding Door system is RC3 rated - providing you with piece of mind and industry-leading functionality.

Damp-Proofing

Project: Birch Place Retirement Village Concrete protection: Sika Location: Crowthorne, Berkshire

The Sika products were easy to use, and with the support of the Sika team, it enabled us to complete the waterproof basement car park ahead

3

6 2

of programme

5

– Ged

Gallagher, Managing Director 1

at Biggins and Gallagher

4

SIKA WATERTIGHT CONCRETE (SIKA WT-100/ SIKA WT-200 P/SIKA 1+)

WATERTIGHT SYSTEM ADVANCES LEVEL OF CONCRETE PROTECTION Drawing on the latest admixture technology to adapt to changes in cement chemistry, the Sika Watertight Concrete system not only increases the use of replacement materials (GGBS, PFA) but allows the use of a wide range of aggregate types. Here, PSBJ looks at how the solution helped protect a basement car park against water ingress.

1

SIKA VISCOCRETE 2

SIKA WATERBAR good-quality concrete E ven will allow water to permeate the surface; hence the need for a product such as Sika’s watertight solution which improves concrete’s resistance to infiltration. Capillary pores provide a pathway for water ingress where there is water on one side of the structure and air on the other. The volume of capillary pores in the concrete matrix is proportional to the water/cement ratio.

Understanding and controlling water/cement ratio is the basis of concrete technology and, as well as permeability, how it affects the strength and durability of concrete.

Case study – Birch Place retirement village Sika Watertight Concrete formed part of the waterproof solution to safeguard a basement car park against the twin perils of damp and water ingress.

Birch Place is a ‘retirement village’ based in Duke’s Ride in Crowthorne, Berkshire. Designed “with the over 70s in mind”, as well as containing modern, luxury apartments, the development comprises a residents’ basement

36

car park. Contractor, Biggins and Gallagher, on behalf of The Hackwood Group, was selected to provide a proven waterproof solution to ensure the facility is free from the threat of water ingress and resulting damage.

Waterproofing work on the basement car park began in August 2017. It required the application of concrete supplied

by CEMEX – containing Sika Watertight Concrete as an additive – to provide a durable, watertight finish to the car park’s walls and floors. Stateof-the-art Sika admixtures are added to the concrete’s designed mix at the batching plant to prevent water ingress and any potential penetration to the structure.

Sika BentoShield MAX LM provided the basement slab’s initial waterproof layer.

Comprising a factory prehydrated, needle-punched and PE flexible membrane, the fullybonded, self-healing product is ideal for basements and other below-ground structures exposed to aggressive ground conditions and stress, or spaces requiring a completely dry internal environment.

The sealing technology of Sika BentoShield MAX LM combines the unique swelling performance of sodium bentonite with high-strength polypropylene geotextiles. It forms a highstrength mechanical bond to freshly-poured concrete to fullyeliminate water tracking.

Ged Gallagher, Managing Director at Biggins and Gallagher, said: “The Sika products were easy to use, and with the support of the Sika team, it enabled us to complete the waterproof basement car park ahead of programme.”

As well as being safe and simple to use, Sika Watertight systems carry a 15-year guarantee backed by the company.

The Birch Place car park’s waterproofing aspect was completed in November 2017 – to the client’s full satisfaction. It meant Sika Watertight Concrete played a major part in providing the residents of the retirement village with a car park that has been furnished with exemplary watertight protection to ensure its stability and performance for many years to come. 

 www.sika.co.uk

3

SIKASWELL 4

SIKADUR-COMBIFLEX SG SYSTEM 5

SIKAFUKO 6

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Fire Protection

CONNECTIVITY – THE FUTURE OF FIRE SAFETY

For vulnerable tenants who may potentially present a greater risk, such as the elderly or those living with dementia or hearing loss, mobile app technology provides 360° protection to family members

A latest industry report has predicted the number of connected devices being used worldwide will grow to 20.8 billion by 2020*. As the development of IoT technology advances and subsequently the popularity of connected devices continues to increase, what opportunities does this present for social housing providers and landlords? Here Nick Rutter, Chief Product Officer for FireAngel, explores the latest connected safety solutions under development and how these are transforming the expectations and capabilities of fire safety technologies. the last decade, the O ver development of IoT and the notion of a ‘connected home’ has undergone significant developments.

Initially starting as a rather fantastical concept whereby fridges were envisioned to have the ability to restock themselves when certain items had run out, today’s IoT technology is supporting the creation of tangible products that are relevant to everyday life, primarily designed to ‘make life easier for the user’.

Penetration of smart home devices has reached almost a quarter throughout the UK according to a latest statistic

by YouGov**, with speakers and thermostats currently the two most popular forms of technology. However, security and safety is an emerging area for IoT and connected technology, with 3% of UK

38

households currently using this type of technology – a figure that is set to rise. It’s this ability to record information in real-time and transmit it wirelessly via a cloud-based network that is a far cry from the initial gimmicks that IoT was once thought to be capable of. The technology provides landlords and housing associations with the opportunity to bridge the gap between themselves and their tenants by creating a constant dialogue via cloud-based software.

When it comes to fire safety, tenants are now able to access their network of alarms via a mobile app to see in real-time the status of their alarms, e.g. if an alarm has activated. In turn, landlords are able to also access the network remotely and can instantly view if a tenant is in potential danger, e.g. if they’ve removed an alarm from its base plate.

By enabling the external monitoring of the smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms within a tenant’s property through interlinked alarms that report back to a central gateway which connects to the cloud platform, landlords can ensure their tenants are being adequately protected from all potential fire dangers, whilst simultaneously complying to all relevant Building Regulations.

For vulnerable tenants who may potentially present a greater risk, such as the elderly or those living with dementia or hearing loss, the technology provides 360° protection to family members as they can access the app remotely to receive real-time updates and notifications on the status of the alarms.

Figures released by Age UK last year revealed that the number of those aged 65 and

over is projected to increase by more than 40% to over 16 million by 2033, whilst the number aged over 85 is set to double. This has led to the need for interactive fire safety technology that supports independent living by providing not only the tenants but their family with peace of mind that they are safe from all potential  fire risks at all times.

SBP ARY

LIBR

sustainable-buildingproducts.com

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Public Sector Build Journal

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app

‹‹‹ for iPhone, iPad and Android swipe to see more!

Free download available now BROWSE | SPECIFY | SOURCE | DIGEST The smarter way to access news and products for the sustainable building market.

With its easy-to-navigate format, users can benefit from a variety of useful tools, such as the magazine’s latest issue, digital archive, suppliers and newsbank. The App is also synced with SBP Library (www.sustainable-buildingproducts.com) providing an essential specification portal. | Bespoke, reader-friendly features tailored to professionals on the move | | Timely industry news delivered at the touch of a button | | Manage print & digital subscriptions |

Fire Protection However, it’s the ability to record the diagnostic technology these interlinked alarms communicate, whether that’s a false alarm or the activation of an alarm due to a real fire event, that is taking connected technology with regards to fire safety one step further. These sector advancements are prompting a shift towards prevention, in addition to reaction.

This change in focus has led to the development of a cloudbased fire safety technology, FireAngel Predict, which has been designed with a unique algorithm that identifies patterns of potentially dangerous behaviour, sending an alert to intervene, in doing so; averting a potential fire.

So how does this work? The Wi-Safe 2 interlinked alarms continuously send data back to the gateway which then reports the events to the cloud platform regarding their status, including any false alarms. If recurring alarm events are recorded on the device, the unique algorithm is able to identify any potential patterns of high-risk behaviour and send a notification to the relevant individual, whether that’s the landlord, social services or the local FRS.

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For example, if an elderly resident living with dementia has gotten distracted or forgotten that they are cooking a meal, and a record of false alarms are recorded on the gateway due to food burning on the hob, the algorithm will identify a dangerous pattern of behaviour and send out a notification to prompt preventative measures to be implemented. It’s this complete transparency that provides landlords with the opportunity to intervene if one of their tenants is in potential danger of a real fire event occurring.

Connected technology is here to stay, whether that’s through voice command speakers or interlinked fire alarms. For the social housing sector, in particular, it removes potential boundaries between social housing providers and their tenants allowing them to remotely manage estates and ensure they are providing overarching protection for all individuals including their most vulnerable tenants. 

When it comes to fire safety, tenants are now able to access their network of alarms via a mobile app to see in real-time the status of their alarms

Gartner report: www.gartner.com/imagesrv/books/iot/iotEbook_digital.pdf

*

YouGov report: https://campaign.yougov.com/rs/060-QFD-941/images/YouGov_

**

UK_2018_08_smart_homes.pdf?utm_medium=Newsletter&utm_source=list&utm_

 www.fireangel.co.uk

campaign=UK_2018_07_IndustryInsights&mkt_

SBP ARY

LIBR

sustainable-buildingproducts.com

Scan this code with your smart phone

swipe to see more!

‹‹‹

app

‹‹‹

swipe to see more!

The

for or iPhone, iPad and Android Free download available now BROWSE | SPECIFY | SOURCE | DIGEST

The smarter way to access news and products for the sustainable building market.

With its easy-to-navigate format, users can benefit from a variety of useful tools, such as the magazine’s latest issue, digital archive, suppliers and newsbank. The App is also synced with SBP Library (www.sustainable-buildingproducts.com) providing an essential specification portal. | Bespoke, reader-friendly features tailored to professionals on the move | | Timely industry news delivered at the touch of a button | | Manage print & digital subscriptions |

Renewable Technology

A NEW ERA? THE CHANGING RESPONSE TO SOLAR Paul Hutchens is Director of Midlands-based solar specialist, Eco2Solar. He is a board member of the Solar Trade Association (STA), the UK-leading solar industry voice, and Chairman of the STA’s New Build Working Group which aims to inform Governments, councils, house-builders and consumers about sustainability in housing. Here, Paul explores how house-builders’ responses to solar has changed over the past decade, and how expectations and demand continue to evolve.

was set up in E co2Solar 2007, and over the past 11 years, we’ve seen a significant change in how house-builders react and respond to solar.

The technology and solutions available have advanced, and as solar becomes more mainstream, we’re seeing changes in how house-builders are choosing to work with us.

We specialise in electrical technologies – particularly solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for newbuild housing, social housing and commercial scale buildings.

Eco2Solar was set up just before the peak of home construction in the UK. It was boom time for the construction industry, with 223,530 new homes built in 2007/08. However, local Governments and house-builders were faced with new challenges, including how to respond to the recently-introduced Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act. Over the years since then, we have adapted to the changing demands of the market and carved a niche for ourselves as specialists in new-build solar installation.

What we do is mostly regulatory-driven. Solar installation is driven by national Building Regulations and local Government planning policies, and for some house-builders, the technology has been considered a frustrating complication in an already complex construction

42

process. Our experience working with house-builders across the country, and getting to understand their frustrations and concerns, has helped shape our company’s growth.

Simplifying solar energy Domestic and international demand for solar is growing.

In 2017, the International Energy Agency announced that solar power was the fastestgrowing source of new energy worldwide, outstripping the growth in all other forms of power generation for the first time and leading experts to hail a “new era”. From a national perspective, the Solar Trade Association reports a growing demand from homeowners.

There are now more than a million homes in the UK with solar (4% of all homes), most of which have chosen to install solar as a retrofit.

Homeowners are increasingly looking for solar solutions so they can benefit from the financial and environmental gains afforded by the technology. This coupled with energy requirements from Building Regulations and local authority planning conditions to meet on-site energy, means solar is increasingly becoming the standard for new-build homes across the UK, and this looks set to continue.

Since Eco2Solar began, we have constantly developed and adapted how we work with house-builders, to offer them straightforward install solutions. Installation is now fast and easy to integrate with other trades. The finished product looks neat, unobtrusive and is integrated into the roof itself. We have an experienced team of installers who come in and work with house-builders to ensure the solar install process is as hassle-free as possible.

Recent feedback from our customers indicates that house-builders are starting to consider solar as an integral element of the construction process, and the historic frustration of incorporating the technology in new builds is waning. House-builders know that solar is here to stay and are looking to work with high-quality, proven suppliers to deliver results that benefit local authorities, housebuilders and households alike.

The local Government's role Over the past decade, we’ve seen various national environmental legislation introduced, redacted and changed. As noted in the Leading Lights report from the Solar Trade Association: “Brexit, unambitious national

housing standards and stopstart policies mean the solar industry is looking beyond Westminster and towards local Government for leadership”.

Different regions are advancing towards solar at different rates, but the trend is certainly towards standardising the technology. Scotland has different regulations to the rest of the UK, and solar panels are installed on about 60% of all new builds and new homes.

Local Governments in England and Wales are moving towards more sustainable energy models, and there are some noteworthy examples of good practice.

Since 2010, Sheffield Council has required all ‘significant developments’ (five or more dwellings, or more than 500m2 of floor space) to use 10% of the predicted energy needs from renewable or low-carbon energy. South Worcestershire’s Development Plan also follows national timetables for carbon reductions, requiring all new developments of 100m2 or more to incorporate renewable or lowcarbon sources of energy.

We’re seeing eco-driven Building Regulations in other areas of the country, including London, parts of Devon, the South East, Lancashire and Yorkshire, where planning authorities have clear objectives to drive local energy from  renewable technology.

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To see further models in the range please visit our website.

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Renewable Technology

Remaining sustainable

Certain local Government administrations are assuming the mantle of responsibility when it comes to introducing renewable technology solutions, which is encouraging others to follow suit.

Solar in the international context National policies and local Government targets all impact how house-builders adopt and respond to renewable technologies. However, local Government and housebuilders are also looking at the international landscape to see how solutions are evolving and being applied elsewhere.

The California Energy Commission recently announced that the state is poised to become the first in the United States to require solar panels on virtually every home. The building standard would mandate the existence of solar arrays on new single-family residences and on multi-family buildings of up to three storeys.

In a report released 9th May 2018, the commission stated: “The building energy efficiency standards, which are the first in the nation to require solar, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an amount equivalent to taking 115,000 fossil fuel cars off the road”. Although the sunny state of California is well-placed to make such a confident move towards renewable technology, this shift in attitudes will have a

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ripple effect amongst housebuilders throughout the rest of the world.

Another country on the radar of house-builders is Germany.

Solar power in the country consists almost exclusively of solar photovoltaics, and in 2016, PV accounted for an estimated 6.2 to 6.9% of the country’s netelectricity generation. In the same year, the UK generated 3.07% of its total electricity using solar power. The German Government’s official goal is to continuously increase renewables’ contribution to the country’s overall electricity consumption – the long-term minimum targets are 35% by 2020, 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. The landscape for solar in Germany is changeable, and it is an issue that had been politicised over the years. Nevertheless, they are arguably ahead of the UK in the journey towards sustainable energy solutions.

Innovating with house-builders We are continuously responding to the changing needs of housebuilders and are always looking at how we can improve our solutions.

One new solution on offer is our Eco2Offgrid system. This is a hybrid power solution that works as a giant on-site battery on the construction site. House-builders can install standalone PV solar energy generators on-site that provide power to builders on the construction site for the

duration of the build phase, reducing the need for dieselpowered generation. Once the development is complete, the temporary solar site is removed.

This new system is quick to install, and we anticipate that it could produce fuel savings of up to £40k p.a. for house-builders. Plus, there are numerous other benefits for house-builders, including improving air quality, lowering emissions from the construction site and significantly reducing noise vibrations compared to the use of traditional generators.

All of which are likely to seen favourably by local Governments and local communities.

We are working with developers on some of the country’s most exciting residential developments.

We have recently agreed a contract with Legal & General Homes, who are constructing their first site ‘Buckler’s Park’ in Crowthorne, Berkshire.

When complete, it will provide 1000 new homes, 100 of which will be affordable housing.

Sustainability is at the heart of the development, and Eco2Solar has been selected above competition to install the PV solar technology to the new houses. We anticipate that between 25 to 50% of the buildings will have PV solar installed, which represents one of the largest solar PV residential installations in the UK to date.

Solar is very much a ‘fit and forget’ technology – it is extremely reliable with virtually no maintenance or snagging issues, and as we continue to invest in product development, the longevity of panels increases.

Solar PV systems are good for 30+ years, far outstripping a new home warranty. One criticism of the technology has been that the panels are not recyclable. However, solar panels comprise metals and glass, and it is now possible to recycle 90% of a solar panel.

Solar PV offers an impressive lifespan, and continues to provide peace of mind, financial and environmental benefits to house-builders. When we first started out 11 years ago, solar was considered an ‘alternative’ technology by house-builders and an awkward hurdle in the already complicated construction process. By adapting our service and streamlining the installation process, it is now a simple, economical and increasingly standard element of home builds.

Internationally, there are some very interesting moves towards making solar standard, and we are seeing some local Governments and house-builders making great strides towards sustainable energy models. Developments like Buckler’s Park indicate that renewables are no longer an ‘addon’ in the construction process, but instead an integral element of the home-building model.

Our work with house-builders is just one part of a wider cultural and behavioural shift, as public demand increases for more sustainable energy solutions in the home. Undoubtedly, there is still work to be done in changing attitudes and expectations of solar. However, I believe that at some point, in the not-to-distant future, the technology will be an asset demanded on all new developments. In the same way the concept of installing a singleglazed window is now out of date, as we move towards greater environmental awareness and the necessity to work towards sustainable energy solutions, the idea of building a home without incorporated renewable technology will too seem archaic.

The culture on solar is changing.

But that change will take time. 

 www.eco2solar.co.uk

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Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Altro brings all things bright and beautiful to children’s hospice The brightest and boldest Altro floor and wall products have been used to refurbish Haven House Children’s Hospice, in Woodford Green, Essex, with rainbow staircases and cleverly colour zoned areas making the facility strikingly beautiful inside and out.

Haven House Family and Community Support Manager, Judi Porter, says: “Altro was recommended to us by Great Ormond Street Hospital, as they have the most wonderful colourful Altro floors and walls.”

A visit to Altro’s offices proved to be the inspiration, as Porter explains: “The moment we walked through the door there was an instant ‘wow’ factor. The most impressive part of the tour was Altro’s rainbow staircase, which is a stunning and beautiful thing.” The Haven House rainbow staircase has been created from different colours of Altro Suprema and Altro Walkway 20 safety flooring.

Elsewhere, the entrance has a green theme, provided by new Altro Orchestra smooth flooring in the shade Jungle, and Altro

Whiterock Chameleon walling in Hawaiian Palm. Altro Orchestra has also been fitted in the shade Trumpet in the family room, and in the activity room in the shade Jungle.

Altro Wood Safety flooring in Bleached Oak has been fitted throughout, in meeting rooms, the cafe area, all corridors and bedrooms. On the first floor, the product has been fitted with Altro acoustic underlay to reduce sound levels.

To create the yellow theme in the waiting area, the team chose Altro Whiterock Chameleon in the shade Bee, and Altro Suprema flooring in Taxi Cab. The disabled toilet has a purple theme, with Altro Whiterock Satins on the walls in the shade Viola, and Altro Walkway 20 safety flooring in the shade Silk.

 www.altro.co.uk  enquiries@altro.com  01462 707604

Dublin apartments use off-site system featuring Magply performance Expona Bevel Line ensures stress-free departures

Luxury vinyl tiles from the Expona Bevel Line collection were used as part of a brand-new departures area which was recently unveiled at Cardiff Airport.

The £4m project includes a brand-new, spacious extension to the departures area which overlooks the airfield and features Expona Bevel Line in the Portland Stone and Light Oak designs.

The light, clean, contemporary design of the Portland Stone tiles complements the classic Light Oak planks, defining seating areas and walkways, and creating a calming, stylish environment perfectly suited for the soon-to-be bustling departure area. Versatile, both designs work well alongside the lounge’s slate grey colour, a decision inspired by the famous Welsh slate heritage.

 www.polyflor.com  info@polyflor.com  0161 767 1111

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The full range of performance benefits of Magply boards have been utilised in the specification of an advanced off-site system being employed in the construction of a new apartment building standing alongside a famous central Dublin landmark.

Linham Construction is creating 10 single-bedroom apartments plus a two-bedroom, duplex property.

9mm Magply boards are being used to walls and 12mm to ceilings of construction for their strength, fire performance and overall durability as well as their excellent weather resistance during the build period.

 www.magply.co.uk

 sales@magply.co.uk

 01621 776252

Designer Contracts plans to double turnover

Designer Contracts plans to double turnover and staff numbers as part of a five-year expansion plan. The company aims to hit an £80m annual turnover target and increase staff from 300 to 600 by 2023. Designer Contracts has this year opened three new regional outlets, including a 6000ft2 space in Leeds, Yorkshire, an 8000ft2 office in Ashford, Kent, and most recently in Norwich, East Anglia. Said Designer Contracts’ MD, Peter Kelsey: “Our five-year plan is driven by our current rate of growth. We have consistently grown and developed over the past few years, rapidly increasing our customer base along with the number of regional facilities across the UK, most recently from 12 to 15.”

 www.designercontracts.com

 01246 854577

 enquiries@designercontracts.com

Clean, modern lines and protected walls achieved with Yeoman Shield Macmillan Academy, eager to promote sustainability and design throughout the interior fabric of its academy, has used Yeoman Shield wall protection products to help achieve its goal. Based in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, Macmillan Academy – responsible for the education of nearly 1500 pupils between the ages of 11 and 18 – has spread its facilities across various site buildings that were built anytime from the 1940s to 2011, to accommodate the students. Wanting to provide an aesthetic modern synergy between older parts of the academy and the new, along with reducing repair and redecoration requirements, Yeoman Shield wall protection products were chosen to be fitted along the corridors of the drama and maths departments. After a site survey was carried out, 2.0mmthick wall protection panels in Yeoman Shield’s FalmouthEx finish were installed on corridor walls at 1250mm high in Dusty Grey.

Alternate panels were placed at 2500mm high in Mid-Grey offering a decorative yet functional scheme.

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

Fibo panels: the perfect finish for Swindon newbuild nursery Fibo wall panels have been used to clad the interior of a new-build nursery in Chiseldon, Swindon. Paul Foggoa, Construction Manager of Swindon Borough Council, comments: “We were impressed with the wall panels as they removed the need for plasterboard, dry-liners, decorators and tilers! The panels are also being specified for the refurbishment of the main building at Chiseldon Primary School.” The nursery was built in just 22 weeks using timber frame and prefab insulated panels for a fasttrack construction. A range of Fibo panels in different colours and designs were fitted throughout all seven rooms of the nursery. Fibo wall panels provide a watertight system that can be used in bathrooms, kitchens and as a decorative wipe-clean wall surface. Foggoa continues: “This was the first time we’d used wall panels. The team within Swindon Borough Council found Fibo via the website, and it was agreed that the system suited the project really well.”

 www.yeomanshield.com  sallyann@yeomanshield.com  0113 279 5854

 www.fibo.co.uk  sales@fibo.co.uk  01494 771242

BAL helps Grenfell boxing club come off the canvas

In one of its most challenging builds, Nick Knowles and the DIY SOS team recently built a brand-new gym for the Dale Youth Boxing Club which was previously housed in Grenfell Tower. To support the build, Stoke-on-Trent-based BAL donated adhesive, tanking, grout and sealants with tiles donated by Walls and Floors (Kettering). BAL kindly agreed to supply Single Part Flexible adhesive, BAL Tank-it waterproofing membrane, Micromax2 Grout Smoke and Micromax Sealant Smoke for changing rooms, toilets and a kitchen at the facility. As well as providing materials, BAL also provided technical support to the tilers working on the project through Andy Oates, BAL Product Support Technician for the South East.

 www.bal-adhesives.com

 info@building-adhesives.com

 01782 591100

Renderplas PVC beads support sustainable regeneration Renderplas PVC render beads are creating clean, contemporary details to the rendering of regeneration projects in Glasgow. G Barton Plastering Ltd MD, Garry Barton, says house-builders need to know they can rely on renderers that will do an excellent job with the right materials, a minimum of fuss and with maximum efficiency. “We choose Renderplas PVC beads every time because we know they will turn up exactly when we need them, they will perform perfectly and stay maintenance-free for the life of the render.” Renderplas corner, bellcast, stop and movement joint beads have all been used on these exciting housing developments.

 www.renderplas.co.uk

 enquiry@renderplas.co.uk

 01299 888333

Designer Contracts named a top 10 British business

Designer Contracts has been named in The Business Reporter’s ‘Best of British Business’ campaign, distributed with The Daily Telegraph, celebrating success stories in British business. The accolade has been awarded to 10 companies in the UK, which have demonstrated leadership, excellence and continue to drive the UK economy. Celebrating its 25th year in business, Designer Contracts originally started in MD Peter Kelsey’s garage and has grown to become the biggest player in its sector. Said Kelsey: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our commitment to the UK economy. We put our success down to making customers our number one priority and ensuring service is at the forefront of everything we do.”

 www.designercontracts.com  enquiries@designercontracts.com  01246 854577

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Walls HVACFloors, & Electricals & Ceilings

HVAC SYSTEMS – THE PERFECT PRESCRIPTION FOR BUILDINGS

In recent years, health and wellness have become a top priority in nearly every facet of our lives. Yet a growing body of research demonstrates that health and wellness are not just about eating well and staying active; in fact, the environments where we live and work have a direct impact on our wellbeing. Danny Packham, European Product Manager – Warm Air and Radiant – for Nortek Global HVAC UK, talks about planning a heating and ventilation strategy for the wellbeing of occupants. average person W ithin thethedeveloped world spending approximately 90% of their lives indoors, the conditions and facilities that buildings provide and the behaviours that they encourage are a significant influence on everyone’s health and wellbeing.

Indeed, there is a large body of research that convincingly demonstrates that the design, construction and operation of buildings have a substantial impact on the health and wellbeing of their occupants. For workplaces, where staff-related costs typically represent 90% of operating costs (energyand rental-related costs typically represent 1 and 9% respectively), anything that can help to make a workforce more healthy and happy can have significant impacts on

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an organisation’s bottom line in terms of improving productivity, absenteeism and staff retention/attraction.

The following aspects have all been shown to impact the health and wellbeing of building occupants: Indoor air quality and ventilation Thermal comfort, temperature and humidity Visual comfort, daylighting and artificial lighting Noise and acoustics Safety and security Interior layout, active and inclusive design and look and feel Connections to nature (known as biophilia).

The importance of an HVAC system in commercial and residential buildings cannot be overemphasised but is

sometimes overlooked. It is well known that outside air pollution is harmful to health and over the years a number of initiatives have been undertaken to improve and reduce these levels.

Unfortunately, less attention has been given to indoor air quality as it is very difficult to detect, but get it wrong, and it can have an impact on the health and wellbeing of the building’s occupants.

The fact remains that fresh air is good for the body, and in commercial buildings, it helps to improve productivity.

A good ventilation system helps to reduce the number of pollutants, bacteria and odour in a facility. This is imperative considering indoor air environments can be as high as 10 times more pollutant than the outdoors.

A number of different types of ventilation systems are available, ranging from a simple fan-only system right up to a packaged heating, cooling and heat recovery system.

However, a good ventilation system will not only meet the ventilation requirements of the building but will also meet its temperature comfort conditions. This is where mechanical ventilation has its advantages as it can be combined with a gas-fired heating unit (condensing models offer thermal efficiencies of up to 109% – net CV) to meet the winter conditions. Free-cooling, will, in most cases, help to lower the space temperature when it creeps above the desired set point, and for when those summertime temperatures cause the mercury to rise even higher, a mechanical cooling system will be necessary to improve comfort conditions.

Mechanical ventilation can meet the above and more besides, the more air changes within a space will help improve air quality as fresh air, or air from another source, is replacing the air within. The number of air changes per area varies depending upon the functions carried out.

All of these options can be combined into a single piece of HVAC equipment that can also include air-to-air heat recovery via a thermal wheel. These allow the recovery of otherwise wasted energy exhausted from the building to be reused, to preheat fresh air entering the building. This, in turn, will help reduce the amount of energy used to meet the heating demand of the building.

The Reznor RTU range is composed of air-to-air heat pumps, packaged with various heat recovery options and gasfired heating coils to maximise efficiency. All units are equipped with high-efficiency G4 class air filters. Fresh air and ventilation options provide a high level of indoor air quality and help ensure a clean and comfortable conditioned space.

www.nortekhvac.com/europe  ryan.ashley@nortek.com  01384 489700

For any residential building project, time saved on site is hugely beneficial. Therefore, Evinox Energy has introduced remote commissioning and warranty validation for its ModuSat heat interface units (HIUs), which can significantly reduce the cost of commissioning and time spent on site. Many other HIUs for communal and district heating developments require an engineer to attend site to set-up every individual unit manually. Evinox’s electronicallycontrolled ModuSat HIUs feature SmartTalk communication technology and can be connected over the internet to remote servers, enabling Evinox to check the operation of each unit remotely and adjust settings where required. Once ModuSat units are installed and ready to be commissioned, the installer registers the units using Evinox’s online registration portal, Evinox then checks the operation of each unit remotely and follows up with a site visit to inspect a sample of units. Evinox will then certify the units and issue certificates and the warranty period begins.

Primary school upgrades heating safety and efficiency with Merriott radiators

HVAC & Electricals

Evinox commissions and maintains HIUs remotely over internet

A primary school in Kent has opted for brand-new low surface temperature (LST) radiators from Merriott as part of a complete overhaul of its antiquated, underperforming heating system – improving safety standards, boosting efficiency, cutting bills and maximising comfort for pupils and staff in the process. Morehall Primary School in Folkestone (part of the Turner Schools Academy Trust) was originally built in the 1930s and still using half-acentury-old, inefficient cast iron radiators to heat its premises.

Turner Schools secured funding to overhaul the school’s entire heating infrastructure to ensure much-needed warmth to an old building, and to ensure compliance with modern health and safety regulations. M&E contractor JT Edwards specified and installed 175 NHS-compliant Merriott Protecta LSTs over a six-month period. These were located primarily in the school’s communal areas, as well as in offices and classrooms. Independently tested in an EN442-accredited laboratory, the Merriott LSTs installed at Morehall Primary School are certified to meet BS EN442 standards.

 www.evinoxenergy.co.uk  info@evinox.co.uk  01372 722277

 www.merriottuk.com  sales@merriottuk.com  01633 657223

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Doors, Windows & Louvres

attack. Secured by Design developments (those using products and materials that meet Secured by Design standards) are up to 75% less likely to be burgled and show a reduction of 25% in criminal damage.

ASSA ABLOY Protect swing and sliding door systems

INCREASING SECURITY STANDARDS PROMOTES DEVELOPMENT OF LEADING SECURITY-ENHANCED AUTOMATIC ENTRANCES ASSA ABLOY understands that you want the best security for your property – whether you are working in healthcare, education, retail, transportation, commercial or multi-residential. Simply put, your building must be well protected against risks such as burglary or vandalism.

C

hanges in Building Regulations are increasing the demands on the products used to gain access to a building. ASSA ABLOY has developed a family of security-enhanced automatic entrances to meet these requirements.

What is PAS 24?

Within Part Q of Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations, it states that secure doorsets should be “manufactured to a design that has been shown by test to meet the security requirements of British Standards publication PAS 24:2016”, and these products receive either a pass or fail.

This standard was introduced to create an acceptable level of crime-safe-manufactured doorset products.

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PAS 24 is now used to test just about all types of door, and this most recent version has been extended to include sliding doors. The test involves timed manual attacking methods, hard and soft body impact tests, and static load testing up to 4500NT in order to pass. The locks or locking mechanisms used in PAS 24:2016 doorsets undergo an evaluation against the General Vulnerability Assessment contained in BS 3621 (the standard for thief-resistant locks).

To be clear, PAS 24 is a test on the entire doorset; the door, frame and locks, not the individual component parts.

What does RC3 rated mean?

RC stands for Resistance Classification for manual attack.

It is measured against sustained attack by professional invaders using a variety of tools such as drills and hammers. Resistance to manual attack is rated on the basis of the higher the numerical rating, the higher the level of protection on offer. RC3 equates to a total test time of 20 minutes, glazing resistance of P5A and an attack resistance to a range of hand tools over a time of five minutes.

Secured by Design Secured by Design (SBD) is a police initiative to guide and encourage crime prevention measures through design, build and specification. The standards and related tests nominated

by SBD must demonstrate the product effectiveness in preventing or reducing crime, usually by resistance to physical

With the increased requirement for secure entrances, ASSA ABLOY has launched the Protect family of risk-reducing, security-enhanced automatic doors. These doors have been developed with designing out risk to your buildings.

The security-enhanced ASSA ABLOY SW300 P swing door system is designed to withstand break-in or attack and conforms to the security requirements of PAS 24 and is Secured by Design certified. With the added benefit of intelligent operators mounted above the doors, access control options can also be included. The perfect combination of strength and flexibility. Available in both single and double arrangements and ready for cable routing, the ASSA ABLOY SW300 P can easily be integrated into your building.

Two variants of the ASSA ABLOY SL500 P sliding door system are available. The first has certified RC2 level burglaryresistant technology which helps the door to fight hard against potential perpetrators. This door contains four-point locking, operated by a single EU two-way cylinder and is further protected from physical attack by our unique anti-pull reinforcement.

Some buildings, commercial retail properties or public sector spaces are exposed to higher security risks, requiring an entrance solution that is both beautiful and secure.

The ASSA ABLOY SL500 P RC3 complies with this higher resistance classification, through enhanced locking and protection measures. Offering increased resistance time to more persistent attempts to break and enter.

A range of ASSA ABLOY Revolving Doors can also be specified with RC3-rated burglar protection.

 www.assaabloyentrance.co.uk  sales.uk.entrance@assaabloy.com  0333 006 3443

Northern powerhouse in education Gilberts has employed cutting-edge ventilation technology for main contractor Kier Construction for the new Don Valley Academy & Performing Arts College in Scawthorpe, Doncaster. To meet the requirements of the Facilities Output Specification (FOS) and Department for Education school building guidelines (BB101 and BB93), Gilberts has supplied its state-of-the-art Mistrale Fusion System (MFS) standalone, ductless, dynamic hybrid ventilation solution for multi-occupancy rooms. The modular design of MFS has meant one core product has been used to address design configurations of ventilation through the wall or through the roof in all teaching spaces. Thus, 130 MFS 128 units paired with Gilberts’ WMZ glazed in facade louvres have been utilised to deliver appropriate airflow and quality into the classrooms with minimal heat loss throughout the three-storey building.

 www.gilbertsblackpool.com  info@gilbertsblackpool.com  01253 766911

A giant cheque for £10,000 was presented by the team from The Window Company (Contracts) to Moat recently to support the latest project being undertaken by its charitable arm, Moat Foundation. The donation is an integral part of the pledge made by The Window Company (Contracts) when it was appointed to Moat’s window and door replacement framework in the autumn of 2017 to support the housing provider’s social value activities. Alongside this, the specialist commercial installer is also providing work placements and supporting community events to benefit Moat residents within the wider region covered by the framework, which includes Essex, London, Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

 www.thewinco.co.uk

 thornton@thewinco.co.uk

Doors, Windows & Louvres

£10k donation to Moat Foundation from The Window Company (Contracts)

 01245 268120

Housing associations and local authorities get more with Sidey

Sidey has again proven its credentials for social housing partners with its place on the Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA) for all categories of windows and doors. Steve Hardy, MD at Sidey, says: “We understand how vital it is for housing associations and local authorities to show transparency of their decision-making processes, and the SPA framework makes it quicker and easier for them to find partners for timber and PVC-U windows and entrance doors. SPA offers pre-checks for quality and price, and a score for the most economically advantageous tender (MEAT) is given. Sidey scored as the top company for MEAT in all five geographical areas.”

 www.sidey.co.uk

 01738 634803

 info@sidey.co.uk

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receive live updates chat with the team comment on articles debate online get networking!

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Fire Protection

Advanced emergency lighting protects exclusive Knightsbridge hotel One of London’s most prestigious hotels, The Berkeley in Knightsbridge, London, is now protected by a Lux Intelligent emergency lighting test system and MxPro fire panels from Advanced.

With a history dating back to the 1800s, the current 214-bedroom Berkeley Hotel was built in 1972, incorporating elements of the original building, and it has recently been subject to a major refurbishment covering all bedrooms, suites, terraces, the lobby, the restaurant, the iconic Blue Bar and the main entrance.

Lewis Bowden, spokesperson for Surrey-based Alarm Communication – the company that specified and installed the system – explained: “Hotels require stateof-the-art emergency lighting systems to safeguard their staff and residents in an emergency situation, helping to facilitate

an orderly evacuation and also to guide firefighters coming into the building. As a long-time Advanced partner, we believed that Lux Intelligent, alongside Advanced MxPro fire panels, was the right choice for The Berkeley, offering the standout capabilities, features and reliability required of a system of this type.”

More than 200 Advanced luminaires have been installed in the historic hotel, on Wilton Place, which is part of the same stable as Claridge’s. They are monitored and controlled by a Lux Intelligent panel, connected to the building’s fire system.

Most of the luminaires are from the Advanced LED-Lite range, which can be recessed into ceilings, offering an aesthetically-pleasing solution in the public areas of the prestigious building.

Ken Bullock, Regional Sales Manager for Advanced, said: “Our Lux Intelligent system offers many benefits including real peace of mind, the ability to work with almost any light, and cost and admin savings.

Alongside the MxPro multiprotocol fire panels, we’re proud to be providing market-leading protection to the staff and residents at The Berkeley.”

 www.advancedco.com  sales@advancedco.com  01670 707111

Checkmate Fire Solutions’ expansion continues with Harlow move

Door closer enhances fire safety British designed and manufactured, Powermatic-controlled, concealed door closers tick all the right boxes when it comes to fire safety and are particularly suitable for social housing applications.

Powermatic carries the CE Mark, meets the requirements for one-hour and halfhour fire doors under BS EN 1634-1 and is the only jamb-mounted door closer to have Certifire accreditation. In addition to impressive third-party-accredited performance credentials, Powermatic closers are totally concealed when the door is closed. This not only helps to create a more homely interior but also enhances the reliability of fire doors by reducing the risk of damage through vandalism or tampering, which could render the fire door useless.

 www.concealeddoorclosers.com  sales@samuel-heath.com  0121 766 4200

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Checkmate Fire Solutions is relocating its South East office to larger premises in Harlow. The business has been running its operations across the whole of southern England from an office in Dunmore, Essex. However, with demand for Checkmate’s compliance and third-party accredited installation services increasing, it is now implementing an expansion plan for the region. The first part of the plan saw it move from Dunmore in September 2018 to a bigger site in Harlow, from where it will service its customers in London and the South East. It is to open a new office base for its operations in the South West of England this month.

 www.checkmatefire.com

 info@checkmatefire.com

 01422 376436

Johnson Controls presents enhanced range of fire alarm devices

Johnson Controls has introduced a range of sounders, visual alarm devices (VADs) and visual indicating devices (VIDs), helping to improve the performance of fire detection systems and ensure evacuation responses occur quickly during a real fire event. With two leading fire detection brands in Europe – ZETTLER and FireClass – Johnson Controls offers highly sophisticated fire detection solutions for a range of different environments and project sizes. Specialists at Johnson Controls have used independent research into light patterns and their effect on triggering human reactions, to improve the design and functionality of the new range of VIDS and VADS.

 www.johnsoncontrols.com

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Drainage

MULTIFUNCTIONAL PERMEABLE PAVING FOR SUDS Recent innovations with concrete block permeable paving help meet regulatory requirements for sustainable drainage systems – or SuDS – delivering far more than just drainage, as Architect and Consultant to Interpave, Chris Hodson, explains. doubt, SuDS W ithout and techniques such as concrete block permeable paving are essential to help fight flooding and pollution – particularly with overloaded sewers, urbanisation and climate change. There is ample research to demonstrate the link between growing urbanisation and flooding, notably the Pitt Review into the summer 2007 floods.

Here, over two-thirds of the 57,000 homes affected were flooded not by swollen rivers but by surface water runoff or surcharge from overloaded drainage systems.

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SuDS are also a firm requirement around the UK, and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) requires SuDS on new developments of 10 or more dwellings in England. But, in addition, NPPF prioritisation of SuDS in areas of flood risk and requirements that construction should not make flood risk worse elsewhere apply to developments of any scale. Localised planning policies also continue to appear, spelling out what local authorities expect from sustainable drainage on the ground.

Inherent drainage system By its very nature, concrete block permeable paving is uniquely placed to help meet the multifunctional requirements for SuDS on developments.

Of course, hard surfaces are necessary anyway – whether for roads, drives and parking, or cycleways, footpaths and play areas. But permeable paving also provides an inherent drainage system, addressing both flooding and pollution issues by attenuating and cleaning water runoff at source.

Concrete block permeable paving can simply infiltrate to the ground where conditions allow or, more commonly, collect water for transmission to other SuDS features along the ‘management train’, or to conventional drainage and watercourses. A real strength of concrete block permeable paving is its ability to remove waterborne pollution, offering the important – and often missed – opportunity of a gradual flow of clean water for use in the

landscape and biodiversity. This capability is also central to the role of permeable paving as a source control, gradually passing clean water to open landscape and SuDS features such as swales.

Low-cost SuDS Following over 25 years of use in the UK and abroad, concrete block permeable paving is a well-established, demonstrably effective technology. But enhancements to the technology continue to be made. For example, while its capability to attenuate water flow during rainfall for gradual discharge is well-known, this principle is transformed by considering distinct storage ‘sub-catchments’ of permeable paving. Here, straightforward flow control devices with a specified orifice – accessible for observation and adjustment if needed – limit outlet flows.

This enables water storage to be strategically deployed around a site, with the flow controls demonstrating straightforward compliance with local authorities as part of the SuDS design approval process. Dedicated water storage on valuable land and associated excavation and construction costs are avoided, and this technique can help satisfy SuDS requirements on highdensity urban schemes without expensive storage structures. It is also useful for controlling flows within the pavement construction, maximising storage on sloping sites and increasing storage times to optimise removal of pollutants and infiltration where applicable.

Concrete block permeable paving provides completely level, well-drained, firm and slipresistant surfaces … accessible to all

Attractive surfaces Of course, paved surfaces help to define the design and character of any development.

The growing choice of concrete block permeable paving products available from Interpave manufacturers – with numerous shapes, styles, finishes and colours – allows real design freedom. At the same time,

concrete block permeable paving provides completely level, welldrained, firm and slip-resistant surfaces that are accessible to all, without the need for cross-falls, channels, gulleys or other interruptions. Rainwater ‘ponding’ is eliminated, reducing the risk of ice forming on the surface and preventing splashing from standing water.

Paving resource You can find out more at Interpave’s relaunched information resource (www. paving.org.uk). Interpave’s new website provides an essential resource covering all aspects of design with precast concrete products, including permeable paving for SuDS. It features an inspirational project gallery

Drainage

Architect and Consultant to Interpave, Chris Hodson:

and case studies, supported by background information for early design stages, as well as for CPDs. A series of technical documents covering all types of precast concrete paving products provide the definitive source of guidance for specifiers and contractors.

Over the coming weeks, several new or updated Interpave technical and educational documents will be launched, and users can register on the website to be kept up-to-date with the latest publications and projects.

 www.paving.org.uk  info@paving.org.uk  0116 232 5170

Build on Uponor with Ecoflex Thermo PRO Ecoflex Thermo PRO is the new pre-insulated pipe system from Uponor, which thanks to its unique construction provides unrivalled flexibility for its class. This solution is ideal for both commercial and residential applications.

New

Excellent heat loss performance with best-in-class flexibility Quick & Easy fitting technology and Wipex fittings for fast and efficient installation Reliable services from planning to project-specific delivery and installation support

www.uponor.co.uk

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Focus & Innovation

ADDRESSING THE OFF-SITE OPPORTUNITIES AND CHANGING DEMANDS The Stroma Group has announced the launch of a new approved inspector brand: Stroma Building Control. It becomes one of the most prominent and largest CICAIR-approved inspectors to the construction industry.

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ormed from three already established building control providers in Approved Design Consultancy, BBS Building Control and Greendoor Building Control, Stroma unites more than three decades of project work and experience in the building control sector. Its expansive team of more than 120 qualified building control surveyors and network of 14 regional offices means that clients can rely on a nationwide building control compliance service delivered at a local level.

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A market leader in delivering environmental sustainability and compliance service throughout the construction lifecycle, the Stroma Group first acquired Greendoor Building Control in late 2015. Further acquisitions of Approved Design Consultancy and BBS Building Control followed in 2016. Over the past two years, a detailed programme of integration has progressed to unite the companies into one of the largest private-approved inspectors across England and Wales. Stroma combines the skill and experience of Approved Design, BBS and Greendoor to deliver more resources, better project efficiency and a client-focused service.

The Stroma Building Control team has an extensive track record across all project

types within the construction industry. Their body of work as trusted consultancy partners for the client spans residential, commercial, mixed-use, leisure, retail, education and more.

Stroma’s advice and support can be provided during the concept and early design phase, through the initial notice submission, plans appraisal and site inspections to the final certificate submission at completion. It also delivers full technical support to clients, CPDs on all regulations and advice on any changes to those regulations.

Stroma Building Control has created a blueprint for success by selecting the very best elements of Approved Design, BBS and Greendoor to create a premiere building control provider from exceptionally strong foundations.

The process was guided and informed by its existing client relationships to ensure each step in the integration would help to maintain and advance the excellent service already received by clients.

The Stroma Group was formed in 2002, now comprising three divisions which deliver services throughout the RIBA Plan of Work stages. In addition to building control, Stroma can provide expertise within the fields of pre-construction, building performance testing, building compliance, postconstruction, certification and training, Building Information Modelling and mobile software.

By engaging with Stroma, clients can avoid the extensive procurement and management costs associated with hiring multiple sub-contractors, achieving all services from a single supplier throughout the project lifecycle.

Steve Lonsdale, Director of Stroma Building Control, said: “Stroma Building Control will be the employer of choice in the sector, providing an enjoyable place to work where staff are supported and respected. We will hold quality at the heart of everything we do and strive to be the leading national private provider of building control services in the UK. The service is focused on enhancing the client experience of the regulatory system and adding value at each stage of the process.

Clients can trust a reputation built by Approved Design, BBS and Greendoor for efficient, timely and high-quality services delivered by experienced professionals.”

www.stroma.com/building-control  buildingcontrol@stroma.com  0345 621 1116

Powdertech Corby has recently completed work on phase one of the exciting regeneration of Regent’s Park Estate, Camden, which provides 116 high-quality new homes for residents directly affected by HS2 construction in the Euston area. The estate still retains a variety of features and squares from John Nash’s original 1810 scheme. The new plans have introduced high-quality contemporary housing with more accessible open spaces and new public amenities.

A key feature of the regeneration is the creative design of high-quality cladding panels. Part-pressed and fully perforated pre-galvanised steel panels add an updated look to the building, known as ‘Cape of Good Hope’. Powdertech provided samples to help the designers select a pearlescent powder, RAL1035, to coat 600m2 of panels, the shade and finish complementing the building's brickwork.

Two further buildings, ‘Newlands’ and ‘Ryedale’, use 400m2 of slightly expanded

mild steel panels to give an undulating cladding outer face and smooth inner face and are used externally and internally.

Powdertech degreased, shot blasted and primed the external panels in a zinc-rich primer before applying a polyester powder RAL1035 pearlescent topcoat. The zincrich primer provides enhanced protection in areas where the environment is regarded as more corrosive than usual. The internal panels were coated in polyester powder RAL8000.

Focus & Innovation

Powder coating assists contemporary regeneration

“We are proud to be part of this project, working with the main contractor and specialist architectural metalwork sub-contractors,” said Richard Besant, Director at Powdertech Corby. “Our flexible approach and ability to offer a mixture of finishing systems for different substrates is a great showcase for our one-stop-shop approach to multi-disciplined projects. The tight programme required

by Camden Council, in response to the HS2 proposals, was easily met by our factory-based powder coating facility.”

 www.powdertechcorby.co.uk  pcl@powdertech.co.uk  01536 400890

Helifix Dixie micro-piles used to support Air Chief Marshal statue Marley Eternit antislip decking creates striking community boardwalk Marley Eternit antislip decking has been specified on a pioneering project to build a brand-new community in Leicester. The European redwood decking has been used to create a stunning timber boardwalk, providing a scenic pedestrian link and acting as a focal point for the entrance of the New Lubbesthorpe development.

Creating a natural aesthetic for the site was important, and landscape architect FPCR Environment & Design has been involved in the project since its inception in 2008. The firm designed a large boardwalk to provide pedestrian access to the new homes and to make an impressive entrance feature for both residents and visitors.

Marley Eternit’s Antislip Plus decking, with a smooth profile, was chosen to create the boardwalk, giving pedestrians the opportunity to walk over, or around the lake, adding a park-like aesthetic to the entrance of the site. The curved boardwalk also features wooden benches, so residents can stop and take in their surroundings.

 www.marleyeternit.co.uk/decking  info@marleyeternit.co.uk  01283 722588

More typically used to support and stabilise buildings, the versatile Helifix Dixie piled foundation system has recently been installed at The Battle of Britain Bunker Museum, RAF Uxbridge, to support a statue of World War II hero, Air Chief Marshal, Sir Keith Park. Due to the proximity of this new statue to both electrical and drainage services, Dixie micropiles were selected as a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete foundations. These Helifix pipe piles screw into virtually any type of soil, quickly and easily, with minimal disruption, noise or spoil removal and would be easier to extract from the ground in the future, by simply being ‘unscrewed’. Detailed ground investigations showed the area to have a top layer of made ground above clay and sandy gravels, with load-bearing strata at around 5m. Four triple flight Dixie micro-piles were torque-driven to the design depth using the hand-held Helifix hydraulic drive head.

 www.helifix.co.uk  sales@helifix.co.uk  0208 735 5200

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Focus & Innovation

MARSHALLS REVEALS CITI ELEMENTS COLLECTION Marshalls is pleased to introduce Citi Elements, an exciting new collection of street furniture offered in a choice of materials and finishes providing customisation at affordable prices. The multi-material design means there is a configured solution to suit almost any landscape. is ideal C itiforElements creating sociable spaces where people can enjoy spending time outside. Within shared spaces, people like to feel safe, in frequently used, visible spaces with a choice of seating can support this.

Design inspiration behind the range follows form meets function...meets landscape.

Form meets function seeks to bring alive our love of the landscape and suggests that the shape of buildings or objects should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose.

Marshalls’ versatile ranges, such as Citi Elements, use simple forms of shape and geometry matching multifaceted use across a variety of environments.

Making the right material choice can enhance the visual quality of a space and enrich the design. Carefully considering how appropriate each material is for its function and how it will withstand the rigours of everyday use, as well as evaluating finer details such as colour and finish will ensure visual consistency and cohesion within the landscape.

Citi Elements comprises a seat, bench and table and is available in three slat materials to fit your budget and match your project.

There is also the choice of frame colours and finishes for

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maximum impact. Seats and benches are available with or without armrests.

Slat options FSC-certified softwood European softwood, FSC-certified Responsibly sourced from well-managed forests Helps keep forests alive, including the people and wildlife Suitable for exterior use Occasional heartwood grain formation giving a natural, rustic appearance.

FSC-certified hardwood Tropical Hardwood, FSC-certified Responsibly sourced from well-managed forests The material offers medium to high durability Suitable for exterior use Straight grain formation giving a clean, uniform look.

Plastic lumber (100% recycled) Choice of eight colours Long-lasting and eco-friendly Plastic lumber slats will not rot or degrade Produced from 100% recycled content, diverting valuable waste from landfill Fully recyclable at the end of its use to eradicate needless waste and build in reuse where possible.

Frame options 316 grade stainless steel Two finishes available in brushed satin or bead blast finish Frames offer a long lifespan and manufactured to the highest standards The material will withstand the rigours of everyday urban use Will retain optimal appearance with only minimal maintenance.

Mild steel powder coated 10 finishes for visual consistency and cohesion to suit the landscape Mild steel frames hot dip galvanised which helps to protect the steel from corrosion Application of polyester coating provides resistance to chips and abrasions Excellent colour retention in outdoor exposure.

Product key features Affordable design where form meets function Materials and finishes to suit the landscape Seat, bench and table option to vary usage FSC-certified timber 100% recycled plastic Stainless steel for high durability Mild steel in a choice of powder coat finishes.

www.marshalls.co.uk/commercial/product/citi-elements-seat  streetfurniture @marshalls.co.uk  01422 312000

SLAT OPTIONS

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Focus & Innovation

Schöck meets steel frame challenge at Oxford Brookes University Oxford Brookes University is one of the UK’s top modern universities. Significant investment has resulted in multiaward-winning facilities, and this is continuing with a 10-year, £220m estate investment plan.

One recently completed facility has seen the former main hall demolished and replaced with the Sir Kenneth Wheare Hall, designed by BGS Architects. It is a tribute to one of the university’s most influential figures and creates multi-use space for teaching and other university events, including graduation ceremonies.

Steel frame and cladding mean high thermal conductivity Steel has a very high thermal conductivity, and the structural steel frame and steel cladding system are designed to minimise unwanted heat flows. With the new hall, support for the external cladding was provided by cantilever connections to the universal columns and it

was critical to provide a structural thermal break at strategic connectivity points. The Schöck Isokorb for steel-to-steel connectivity was the ideal solution. By thermally separating the exterior steel structure from the interior steel structure, these modular thermal insulation elements reliably mitigate the risk of condensation, mould formation and corrosion. The units withstand extremely demanding loads and are effective against both bending moment and shear force.

The Isokorb used at Oxford Brookes is for steel-to-steel, but the comprehensive Isokorb range from Schöck offers solutions for concrete-to-concrete, concrete-to-steel – and even a maintenance-free alternative to wrapped parapets.

Products meet full compliance with the relevant UK Building Regulations, have NHBC approval and offer LABC registration. There is also the security of independent BBA certification.

 www.schoeck.co.uk  design@schoeck.co.uk  01865 290890

KI’s MyWay modular education lounge seating now available in the UK KI’s MyWay adaptive lounge seating was designed specifically for contemporary education environments.

Modular and easy to reconfigure, it ergonomically supports a ‘sit-as-you-like’ approach, giving users the freedom to comfortably connect, collaborate, socialise and relax in their preferre d seated position. The collection consists of individual chairs that can be specified with any combination of arm styles – conventional arms, arms embedded with a laminate work surface (left- or right-hand) or a low arm. These individual units can then be pushed together to create various combinations such as love seats or sofas, or simply be used separately on their own.

 www.kieurope.com

 education@kieurope.com

 0207 405 7082

REHAU launches brandnew campaign to ‘Build Your Legacy’ REHAU has launched ‘Build Your Legacy’, a brand-new campaign designed to encourage mechanical and electrical contractors to consider how the product choices they make today will impact a building’s performance in years to come. The campaign incorporates a range of print and digital marketing media, all highlighting the four key areas where choosing the right products can support the delivery of future-proofed, sustainable buildings – quality, technical know-how, trust and reliability as well as innovation and sustainability. Some of REHAU’s products, such as the RAUTITAN universal pipework solution, are designed to last for 50 years, offering installations which have a legacy spanning two or more generations.

 www.rehau.uk/buildyourlegacy

 irene.smith@rehau.com  01989 762650

AKW announces membership of the BHTA

AKW is pleased to announce the company’s acceptance as a member of The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA). The BHTA is the UK’s oldest and largest healthcare association, and its members make or sell healthcare and assistive technology products to help people live more independently. Ruth Ingledew, Managing Director, comments: “We are very excited about becoming a member, we have long recognised the invaluable work that the organisation does in influencing healthcare policies. By utilising our 29 years of expertise in the industry as well as adding our voice to other member companies, we hope to contribute to as many campaigns as possible.”

 www.akw-ltd.co.uk  sales@akw-ltd.co.uk  01905 823298

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Focus & Innovation

WHY TECHNOLOGY IS THE ANSWER TO TALENT SHORTAGES

Rob Elvidge, Managing Director of PlanGrid EMEA, explains how technology can not only improve productivity today but help attract the next generation of builders to the industry. has T echnology transformed our personal lives. At home, we expect to be able to order the weekly shop, book a doctor’s appointment and check the weather at the click of a button. These experiences have also impacted our expectations at work; most employees today expect to use technology to make their job easier.

However, on construction sites, it’s often a different story because of our continuing reliance on paper. Paper drawings create issues like admin and even mistakes onsite, with serious impacts on employee engagement and productivity. At a time when Brexit may further heighten the construction skills shortage, our Digital Foundations report explores firms’ challenges with talent and how technology could improve workers’ lives.

Talent is the biggest challenge UK construction firms are experiencing acute talent challenges. In fact, twofifths (38%) of construction professionals say that talent is their biggest concern for the year ahead. Shortages of

workers are already impacting business outputs, as nearly half (46%) say lack of resource most limits their productivity.

Unfortunately, it looks likely that these talent shortages will only worsen. At present, over 8% of construction workers come from the EU and Brexit may limit this stream of talent.

Moreover, the Farmer Review predicts that the industry will need to gain 700,000 workers in the next decade. Attracting and retaining workers has never been more important to businesses’ success.

The problem with motivation It’s clear that getting the most out of the workers on-site is critical, but professionals point to ongoing challenges relating to outdated working practices and the persistence of paper. Nearly a quarter of firms (22%) say all projects are entirely paper-based, with one in 10 making minimal or no use of technology. As a result, over a third (38%) point to an inordinate focus on administrative tasks in the business.

But critically, paper documentation can also lead to inaccuracy and even mistakes;

Rob Elvidge, Managing Director of PlanGrid EMEA:

UK construction firms are experiencing acute talent challenges. In fact, two-fifths (38%) of construction professionals say that talent is their biggest concern for the year ahead.

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two-thirds of professionals (68%) say that rework is the main cause of unnecessary time on projects. Errors harm the profitability of jobs and the motivation of workers – issues that construction firms can’t afford in the current landscape.

Technology on the site Digital tools can significantly improve the efficiency of construction sites. Digital drawings can be shared with the whole team instantly to ensure that everyone is working from one set of plans, reducing mistakes and frustration caused by outdated information.

Users can mark-up notes and changes on tablets, significantly reducing time spent on administration. Importantly, technology can also support the standardisation of processes, so that everyone can follow best practice with ease.

New tools are simple to use and can support the engagement and productivity of workers of all ages. Providing the best tools for the job can help firms attract talent at a time when competition is fierce. Importantly, digital tools will also help firms to attract the next generation of talent into construction to provide muchneeded workers for the future.

Companies with foresight will look to recruit from other industries, bringing in employees with experience of technology solutions to help boost productivity. It’s undoubtedly a challenging time for talent in construction, but with technology, and a few digital champions to drive change in the sector, we can improve our productivity today and for the future.

 www.plangrid.com/gb  emea@plangrid.com  0203 695 0292

Bostik’s self-adhesive thermal acoustic wrap, W110, has been used to provide acoustic insulation on the plastic rainwater and soil pipe system at the newly-refurbished Brecknock Museum in Brecon, Powys, mid-Wales. Following a successful Heritage Lottery Fund bid, a major programme of restoration and refurbishment has taken place to revitalise the Brecknock Museum and Art Gallery. Housed in an impressive Grade II* Listed building, the project includes the creation of a new public library, cafe, shop, sculpture garden and car park. F P Hurley & Sons, the main contractor for the HVAC work on the museum project, selected Bostik W110 as it’s up to 20% quicker to install** than traditional acoustic insulation products, allowing them to save valuable time during the restoration. Supplied on a compact and lightweight roll, Bostik W110 forms an instant bond around pipework with no need for the extra banding or clips that are associated with the more traditional products on the market. **

Times may vary depending on site conditions

and complexity of installation

Focus & Innovation

It’s a wrap for Bostik at Brecknock Museum

St Andrew’s School retires its old Aylesbury float valve A primary school in Uxbridge has retired its Aylesbury cold water storage tank valve after 24 years of service, so its successor can now take the strain. The original Aylesbury K-Type delayed-action mechanical float valve had been in constant daily use since the 1990s, meeting all the water needs of the school’s staff and 200+ children. Spare parts were no longer readily available to fit a valve of that age, so manufacturer Keraflo recommended that the best solution was to upgrade the system by fitting the modern version of the Aylesbury K-Type valve. The school’s water tank valve was originally installed when the London Borough of Hillingdon carried out a project to upgrade all water tanks across the borough’s school premises in 1994. Many of those Hillingdon schools have long since been refurbished or replaced, but the valve at St Andrew’s Church of England Primary School has been “going strong” and working every day.

 www.bostik.com/uk  thermal.construction@bostik.com  01785 272625

www.firestonebpe.co.uk • info@fbpl.co.uk • 01606 552026

Firestone RubberGard™ EPDM Roofing Systems The EPDM reference for professionals

 www.ourworldiswater.co.uk  info@keraflo.co.uk  0118 920 9920

Exceptional flexibility and elongation Proven performance in all climates Durability in excess of 30 years

Minimal seams due to large sheets RubberGard™ EPDM - the complete roofing system for new build and refurbishment

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Focus & Innovation

VEKA helps local school start new chapter Industry-leading PVC-U systems supplier VEKA Group has transformed a double-decker bus into an inspirational reading space for a local primary school after it won thousands of online votes.

Children at Whittlefield Primary School were delighted to get a first look inside their new school library.

‘big fix’, and Whittlefield Primary School was overwhelmingly voted the winner.

The transformation took five weeks, with help from a host of businesses across Lancashire and more than 750 hours of volunteered time.

Headteacher, Helen Kershaw, said: “We had the bus donated and had begun to do the basic groundwork, but turning it into a usable and beautiful library became an overwhelming challenge we couldn’t complete without help.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the work that VEKA and all the volunteers have done; it’s phenomenal, and we’re so grateful...

Before this, we didn’t have the space for a dedicated library within the school, so it really will make an enormous difference for generations of pupils. Thousands of children will enjoy the benefit of this inspirational reading space over the coming years.”

VEKA’s Marketing Director, Dawn Stockell, said: “We were thrilled to work on what became the Whittlefield Woodland Library Bus. VEKA is well-known for getting stuck into charity work, community causes and local projects. It’s a significant part of the company’s ethos and one that we are very proud of.”

 www.vekauk.com  salesenquiry@veka.com  01282 716611

VEKA worked with regional radio station 2BR to promote the ‘VEKA Community Challenge’, where local projects could be nominated for a

AKW launches accessible bathroom tiling range

McAvoy announces expansion into off-site housing

The McAvoy Group has announced its expansion into the residential sector with the launch of a new modular solution for all housing tenures. McAvoy has developed a steel-framed offsite housing solution for multi-storey apartments, detached, semi-detached and terraced family homes. An entire house can be assembled in a single day – and from foundations to occupation in just seven days. The McAvoy approach to housing will reduce programme times by at least 50% compared to site-based construction. This will allow earlier occupation for public sector housing providers and generate a faster return on investment for private developers.

 www.mcavoygroup.com  info@mcavoygroup.com  0288 774 0372

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AKW has launched its complementary range of super-white tiles and accessories for accessible bathroom installations. Designed with both safety and practicality in mind, the AKW Tiling and Accessories Range is available in three sizes, with accompanying accessories including spacers, edging and trims, adhesive and grout. The surface of each tile is bumpy, enabling overhead lighting glare to be diffused and significantly reduced for users.

This glare reduction is not only beneficial to those with visual impairments but also to those living with dementia. In addition, the super-white finish of the tiles enables maximum colour contrast to be achieved with flooring, grab rails, shower seats and painted wall areas.

 www.akw-ltd.co.uk

 sales@akw-ltd.co.uk

 01905 823298

Solarlux team to cycle 550km in memory of sales manager’s daughter

Team members from bi-folding door manufacturer Solarlux will be undertaking the immense physical challenge of cycling a gruelling 550km, from Vauxhall Bridge in London to their headquarters in Melle, Germany, to raise much-needed and well-deserved funds for a charity close to the company’s heart. On June 1st, 17-year-old Vanessa Riddle, the daughter of Solarlux Sales Manager Chris Riddle, very sadly lost her valiant decade-long battle with Neuroblastoma, a very aggressive form of childhood cancer. Since his daughter’s diagnosis, Chris has become a committed fundraiser for Solving Kids’ Cancer – a charity dedicated to supporting families affected by neuroblastoma – and to raising money to find a much-needed cure.

 www.solarlux.co.uk/en

 01707 339970

 info@solarlux.co.uk

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Firman Glass Projects is the specialist projects division of Firman Glass. Our expertise covers all aspects of design, manufacture and installation of structural glazing including glass fioors and structures, commercial shop fronts and facades, fire doors and screens, vacuum lifting and crane operations - and architectural metalwork.