Premier 18-2 by PHIL AINLEY

Roma Publications

Volume 18 - Issue 2

Manchester City Football Club Improving hospitality facilities at Etihad Stadium

Malmaison Dundee

Transforming The Tay Hotel

Rockspring

Managing and acquiring highprofile commercial properties

Howsham Mill

The ÂŁ1 million restoration project continues

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Contents PREMIER CONSTRUCTION Dear readers, Amongst the projects in this edition of Premier Construction, we take a look at the work being conducted by property investment fiduciary, Rockspring; the conversion of The Tay Hotel building into a new Malmaison hotel; and the construction of a new Premier Inn in Manchester. With over 28 years experience, specialising in the management and acquisition of commercial property, Rockspring has been involved with many high-profile projects including St Mary Axe, London EC3 and Westcott Venture Park, Buckinghamshire. Two current projects include the recently completed 90,000 sq ft office refurbishment project at Kings and Conquest House, Kingston (pre-let to Saipem) and the development of 75,000 sq ft of new Grade A offices at Monument Place, London EC2. Meanwhile, The Tay Hotel building in Dundee is being transformed into a chic Malmaison hotel. Work on the 91-bedroom hotel began in spring 2012 and will be completed in July 2013, opening for business in August/September 2013. As one of the most prominent buildings in central Dundee, The Tay Hotel fell into disrepair after being closed for many years and it has remained derelict for 15 years. It is hoped that the £15 million redevelopment will turn the building back into an important city landmark once again. A new build Premier Inn has just been completed close to Piccadilly Station in Manchester. As the fifth Premier Inn in the city centre, architects have worked hard on the design of the new hotel to ensure it fits in with the existing buildings in this historic area of Manchester. Using Manchester’s industrial past as inspiration, the design of the building has taken elements from the surrounding warehouse structures. This month also sees the introduction of our new sister publication, Premier Hospitality which is due out later this month. Premier Hospitality is a brand new magazine focusing on the latest developments in the leisure and hospitality industry. Each issue of Premier Hospitality will highlight projects currently taking shape throughout the UK and overseas, covering everything from restaurants and bars through to hotels and spas. Our first edition of Premier Hospitality includes extensive coverage of the recent Restaurant and Bar Design Awards 2012, including features on award-winning projects such as Coach House (Best UK Café of Fast Food Restaurant) and Les Grandes Tables de Lîle Seguin (Best UK & International Pop Up Restaurant). Enjoy!

Volume 18 • Issue 2

Malmaison Dundee.............................................................................................8 Rockspring..........................................................................................................9

NHBC Pride in the Job Awards 2012 Cliveden Grange................................................................................................16 Heathside and Leftbridge.................................................................................19

South West Millbay Docks....................................................................................................20

North West Manchester City Football Club........................................................................21 Allingham House Care Home..........................................................................27 Premier Inn Manchester...................................................................................30

North East Howsham Mill...................................................................................................35 Cross Lane Hospital.........................................................................................38 Rothbury Bridge...............................................................................................42 Rotherham Central Station..............................................................................47

Midlands & East Anglia St Barnabas Church..........................................................................................51 BGL Group Office.............................................................................................53 Kettering General Hospital...............................................................................56

London & South East Castle Court......................................................................................................59 Bishops Park.....................................................................................................64

Scotland Hamilton Bus Station........................................................................................73 Raasay House....................................................................................................74 Lothian Buses....................................................................................................76 Ochil House.......................................................................................................82 Mugdock House Care Home...........................................................................84

Wales Pant Y Wal Wind Farm......................................................................................89

Ireland Apex Housing Group........................................................................................92

Alex Follow us on twitter.com/pcbyroma and www.premierconstructionnews.com Managing Director: Marcus Howarth Editor: Alex Wiggan Assistant Editor: Siân Davies Production Manager: Kelsie Howarth Advert Co-ordinator: Nicola Owen and Sarah Goater Published by: Roma Publications Ltd. t: 01706 719 972 f: 0845 458 4446 e: admin@romauk.net w: www.romauk.net Graphic Design by:

www.marcusmacaulay.co.uk

© Roma Publications Ltd. All contents are copyright. All rights are reserved. No part may be stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the publishers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies however caused. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher. The editorial policy and general layout of this publication are at the discretion of the publisher and no debate will be entered into. No responsibility can be accepted for illustrations, artwork or photographs whilst in transmission with the publishers or their agents unless a commitment is made in writing prior to the receipt of such terms.

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Sustainable fencing One of the UK’s largest social housing providers – Your Housing Group – is to use eco-friendly fencing for its residential development in Partington, Manchester. Made from Zyplex, the recycled plastic lumber is being supplied by a Colne-based family business, Kedel Ltd., and is ideal for replacing wooden fencing in need of refurbishment. Skills2Build, a supported employment programme for people facing significant barriers to finding jobs, have recruited local Partington residents to construct and install the fencing on the 120-house scheme. Dermot Walch, managing director of Kedel said: “Using Zyplex offers potentially significant cost and performance advantages over traditional materials. This fencing won’t rot, chip or fade, and will last about 5 times longer than wood without any need of maintenance.” “We’re delighted to be involved in this project. The fencing is truly sustainable in every sense, and the fact it was formulated for strength, durability and stability will now be demonstrated to the full in Partington.” Dermot added: “Our waste plastic is sourced within a 50 mile radius of our base here in Colne, making our recycled plastic products more eco-friendly than most. Through innovative design, we want to drive up the demand for recycled plastic, to keep more of it from ending up in landfill. “Most landfill sites contain around 30% plastic waste, and unless we invent new, novel ways to use it, this is unlikely to improve in the short term.” Kedel Ltd., founded in 2009, supplies products made from recycled plastic – synthetic wood, mixed plastic lumber, ground reinforcement grids, and a wide range of garden and street furniture. For more information contact 01282 861325, info@kedel.co.uk, or visit www.kedel. co.uk.

Call for entries Entries are now being accepted for the International Green Apple Built Environment and Architectural Heritage 2013 Awards. The Green Apple Awards are given to projects which demonstrate sustainability and green endeavours in the built environment. Entry is free and anyone with environmentally-friendly projects in the building and construction sector – either private or local authority – can submit an entry. Projects that have made a positive impact on the built environment in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, preserving heritage, urban design and civil engineering, and related fields are all eligible for entry. Every company or council is entitled to submit one free entry. Additional entries are accepted upon payment of the Supplementary Entry Fee of £100 + VAT. The deadline for entries is February 28, 2013. For more information please visit: www. greenappleawards.com.

Sophisticated SureSet Flooring for Suave Wine Bar SureSet InBound flooring has been used to create a striking surface for the new Suave Wine Bar in Westbury, Wiltshire. 59m² of InBound resin bound flooring was installed, delivering a blend of warm shades of brown and bronze to perfectly complement the wine bar’s design theme. InBound provides a durable, elegant surface that is virtually maintenance free; for this project, a colourless sealant was also applied for a

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completely waterproof finish. Developed specifically for interior work and for areas that may be heavily used, InBound offers a wide range of colour options, providing the perfect solution for a host of applications, including bars, cafes, hotels, restaurants and offices. For more information please visit: www.surest.co.uk, call 0800 612 2083, or email: mail@sureset.co.uk.

Roofco expands team to manage growth Sheffield-based Roofco is enhancing its customer support services with the appointment of a new sales and technical associate.

William Smith joins the suppliers to the roofing industry to provide a first point of contact for new customers and assist in technical development. Before starting at Roofco, William helped launch a new venture for his family’s business. Having worked previously for a large firm of local accountants, where he gained his Association of Accounting Technicians qualification, his new role will also include managing the firm’s sales order process, new product lines and reporting on performance figures. William Martin, Roofco’s product engineer, said: “Will’s career so far demonstrates his drive, motivation and desire to succeed in new ventures. His accountancy background will also be extremely useful, adding valuable new skills to our expanding sales team. This is an exciting time for Roofco, as we are widening our product range and we are very pleased to welcome Will to the firm.” Roofco supplies high quality equipment and materials to the roofing market, including safety systems and flat roof membranes. For more information about its full product range, telephone (0114) 243 6001 or visit www.roofco.co.uk.

Prime Minister visits National Construction College in Birmingham The National Construction College in Birmingham recently played host to a visit from the Prime Minister, David Cameron. Visiting one of Europe’s largest construction colleges on the day the government announced a series of initiatives aimed at boosting house building, Mr Cameron said: “The construction industry has a major contribution to make to economic recovery. If we are to realise the full potential of that contribution it is essential that we have a highly skilled workforce. “The National Construction College in Birmingham is a centre for excellence in delivering that workforce and I have been extremely impressed by the students and staff I have met here today. “The construction industry has faced huge challenges over recent years and I welcome the initiative it is taking through the Construction4Growth campaign to work with the Government to kick start the industry and return it to growth.” Andy Walder Director of the National Construction College said: “It has been great to show the Prime Minister some of the work we do here. Our apprentices will go on to take on some of the biggest roles in construction. Many of them will set up their own businesses and some go onto senior roles in some of the biggest construction companies in the world.”

Plant hire firm reaps the benefits of HAVs management system A major plant hire company has confirmed the importance of vibration health and safety by adding a preventative solution to its fleet of products. A-Plant, one of the UK’s largest plant, tool and equipment hire companies has shown is improving workforce welfare by establishing a key relationship with innovative health and safety specialists Reactec – the firm responsible for the HAVmeter. Ashtead Plant Hire Company Ltd Marketing Director, Asif Latief, said: “At A-Plant, we hold the safety of the UK workforce as of paramount importance and recognise that the HAVmeter is the front runner in reducing and eliminating Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome. “After extensive investigations into the HAVS monitoring market, we are confident that the HAVmeter provides the greatest cost, operational and health benefits to both employer and employee.” Director of Reactec, Jim O’Hagan, commented: “We look forward to helping A-Plant streamline the vibration health and safety practices that accompany the equipment they have for hire, allowing both them and those who use the tools they provide, to enjoy the energy and cost saving benefits of HAVmeter.” HAVmeter is the UK’s leading system for monitoring vibration exposure and, in addition to being offered by major tool hire firms, it is used by many of the country’s biggest construction and manufacturing companies including Balfour Beatty, Environment Agency, Tarmac and Aston Martin. ROMA PUBLICATIONS

Landmark Dundee building refurbished by Malmaison The Tay Hotel building in Dundee is being transformed to convert it into a chic Malmaison hotel. Work on the 91-bedroom hotel began in spring 2012 and will be completed in July 2013, opening for business in August/ September 2013. The hotel will be entirely refurbished internally but will keep its 1890’s exterior. As one of the most prominent buildings in central Dundee, The Tay Hotel fell into disrepair after being closed for many years and it has remained derelict for 15 years. It is hoped that the £15 million redevelopment will turn the building back into an important city landmark once again. As well as over 90 bedrooms and suites, the hotel will house a bar and brasserie, a 150-cover banqueting suite and a winetasting room. Malmaison signed a 35-year operating lease with developer MEC Services and the new hotel expected to create around 120 jobs. Gary Davis, Chief Executive of MWB, the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin group, said: “Builders are on site and we are currently working on our internal designs for bedrooms and the restaurant and other public spaces. “Dundee is our first new hotel for three years so, while we’re still going to keep the same Malmaison feel, it will be very much today’s look rather than the designs of a few years ago. “It will still have the DNA of a Malmaison hotel, but of what one should be in the future.” The project forms part of the £1 billion redevelopment of Dundee waterfront, which will include the £45 million V&A museum to be built overlooking the River Tay. The main contractor on the project is Interserve and the architect is Curious Architecture. Interserve will replace sash and casement windows and timber shutters as part of the conservation project. In addition they will repair a feature lead dome on the building’s roof, refurbish a feature staircase and cupola located on the stairs’ landing and replace or redress Scottish slates on the building’s mansard roof. Interserve will also rebuild the existing structures and fire escape staircase in the atrium which were rotten and had collapsed. Councillor Ken Guild, leader of Dundee City Council and chairman of the Dundee Waterfront Board, said: “We are delighted to welcome Malmaison to Dundee as a key part of the new waterfront, particularly as the new hotel will result in the restoration of one of our finest historic buildings to create a landmark destination right at the heart of the regeneration of the city.” The transformation of Dundee’s waterfront is the second largest regeneration project in Scotland and is within the top 20 such projects throughout the UK. The area spans 240 hectares of land stretching 8km along the River Tay. The Dundee Central Waterfront Development will see a dramatic change to this part of the city. Split up into zones, the

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waterfront will see improvements in terms of new riverside flats, office space, civic space and improvements to the port as well as the £45 million V&A museum. First Minister Alex Salmond said: “MWB’s decision to open a new Malmaison in Dundee reflects the significant opportunities for development and growth in the city. “The city’s successful games sector and the creation of the V&A at Dundee strengthen its reputation as a centre for the creative industries and its ability to attract new investment and visitors. “The announcement demonstrates confidence in the local economy and will bring new jobs to the city. Malmaison has chosen an excellent location in the Dundee central waterfront development.”

Rockspring: Investing in Europe With over 28 years experience, Rockspring is a property investment fiduciary, specialising in the management and acquisition of commercial property throughout the UK and continental Europe. Throughout its vast portfolio, Rockspring has a formidable and unchallenged track record of development projects and has funded schemes including St Mary Axe, London EC3 and Westcott Venture Park, Buckinghamshire. Two current projects include the recently completed 90,000 sq ft office refurbishment project at Kings and Conquest House, Kingston (pre-let to Saipem) and the development of 75,000 sq ft of new Grade A offices at Monument Place, London EC2. Completed in early October 2012, the Kingston project was a £10 million scheme to refurbish an existing office space. The project comprised the installation of new mechanical and electrical services, the installation of a new entrance, new floors and ceilings and a slight reconfiguration of the building’s internal space. Additional work included the installation of new lifts, new central plant and the refurbishment of the central atrium and reception areas. New internal and external glazing, as well as general decoration works also took place on the site. Work began on the project in January 2012. The project was funded by Rockspring, with Faithdean as the main contractor and ESA as the architect. Rockspring European Director, Richard Bains, said: “Prior to work taking place to Kings and Conquest the existing buildings were 25 years old and the mechanical and electrical services were reaching the end of their life. In order to facilitate a new letting we need to reinvest in the building to bring it up to date. “We pre-let the office accommodation to Saipem – a multi-

national oil company – which reduced the risk of investing in the refurbishment works, but increased the concentration on implementation of the refurbishment and delivery on time.” Whilst work is now complete at Kingston, another important project for Rockspring is continuing to make great progress. Located in London EC3, the Monument Place project is an £18 million scheme to construct a brand new Grade A office building with retail space. Mace is the main contractor and David Walker Architects is providing all architectural services. Work began on the new build project in October 2011, with civil, structural and demolition specialists McGee’s conducting demolition work to prepare the site ahead of the construction work. In January 2012, Mace then took over the site to begin constructing the new building. The new development is being built from a steel frame construction, with Portland stone cladding and full-height glazed windows. Richard Bains said: “Monument Place previously housed a 60,000 sq ft office building which we did not consider to be economically suitable for refurbishment, so we obtained planning consent to improve the building’s configuration, creating more space on the site, taking it from 60,000 sq ft to 75,000 sq ft of office space and 4,000 sq ft of retail space. “The building will include Photovoltaic cells on the roof, rain water harvesting and has been designed to achieve a BREEAM Rating of ‘Excellent’, so it is set to be one of the most environmentally friendly new builds in the area.” Richard added: “Across London and the Thames Valley, we have seven office developments underway making us one of the most active developers across the region.” Monument Place is set to reach completion in June 2013. ROMA PUBLICATIONS

Refurbishing 63 St Mary Axe Located within the heart of London, 63 St Mary Axe is a ten-storey building comprising office spaces and retail units. The development covers an area of approximately 80,000 sq ft which is divided between two basement levels, a ground floor and six upper levels. At present, 63 St Mary Axe is undergoing an estimated £15 million office redevelopment project to provide a contemporary and stylish building with universal appeal. John Sisk & Sons is the main contractor on the project, whilst ESA is the architect, Meinhardt UK is the services and structural engineer and Gleeds Cost Management Ltd is the quantity surveyor. The project is being financed by Rockspring, who acquired the building from previous owners Threadneedle and is being developed in conjunction with Moorevale. 63 St Mary Axe is just three minutes walk from Liverpool Street Station and is conveniently situated close to numerous bars and restaurants, such as Rhodes 24, The Drift and Gaucho City. The building was originally constructed in 1989 for Eagle Star before being reconstructed in 1992. The asset provides flexible office space – with typical floorplates of c.10,000 sq ft – across the six upper levels, whilst the retail units are housed within the ground level. The building has been designed to achieve a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ and as the development is located in Central London all efforts are being made to ensure that disruption to nearby residents is kept to a minimum. The development will include the creation and extension of two new upper floors. Once work is complete on the project, the newly refurbished building will boast a bright, new entrance

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hall – complete with a glazed circle-slider door, a leather feature wall and modern furniture – new areas of curtain walling; a new external horizontal glass louvre system; and improved lighting. In addition, new CCTV systems will be installed, floors will benefit from new finishes, and heat, ventilation, security and electrical systems will be improved. A central refuse store will also be provided at ground level and space will be provided for cyclists. An entire new feature staircase, located within the office entrance will provide access to all upper levels. The staircase will comprise a steel frame with glass treads and glass balustrades. Many of the new mechanical and electrical systems within the building have been designed to achieve a lifespan of 15 – 20 years. John Sisk & Son Regional Director, Peter Glass, said: “Our strategy for 63 St Mary Axe is to ensure the earliest delivery of the project, focusing our solutions on increasing their potential to maximise rental revenue. “We have extensive experience working on large commercial spaces in demanding city locations.” Moorevale Director, Charlie Bishop, said: “This asset is located in a sought after location in the City of London and on completion of the rejuvenation works will provide premium office space. “We were impressed by John Sisk & Sons’ innovative approach to the base design, and with a proven track record of delivering quality commercial projects on a tight timescale, we are confident the solutions they offer will add value to the investment.” The refurbishment of St Mary Axe is scheduled to reach completion in 2013.

Westcott Venture Park takes off Situated between Aylesbury and Bicester, Westcott Venture Park in Buckinghamshire is a 650-acre mixed-use development comprising office space, warehouses, manufacturing buildings and workshops. The £30 million site is owned by Rockspring who have recently completed a number of major infrastructure works to improve access to the estate. Rockspring European Director, Rod Mordey, said: “Westcott Venture Park was formerly an airfield constructed during World War II. The site was built to provide a space where Lancaster Bomber pilots could be trained. Following the war, the site became the Rocket Propulsion Establishment for the government and in 1996 the site was sold to Rockspring where it has since become a part-vacant/part-let site which we continue to develop. “The first stage of developing Westcott Venture Park was to refurbish many of the existing buildings to prepare the structures for new lettings. There are five hangars on the site; two were stripped back to the frame and were completely re-clad, two were over-clad and the remaining hangar let to a waste contractor in its current form. “Beyond the existing buildings on the park we have progressed with a number of new initiatives to increase income. In order to achieve this, we recently moved the entrance of the estate and installed a new estate road which opened up a large amount of land for development. “We have built approximately 2km of road by removing one of the redundant runways. We then crushed the excavated material and used it as a base layer for the new road. This allowed us to recycle the old road and saved us from having to import any new materials.

“As a result of this work, we have been able to sell one plot of land to an American company called Construction Specialties so they can develop a warehouse. We are currently halfway through developing a parcel loading depot too.” In addition to the new loading depot that is currently under ROMA PUBLICATIONS

construction at Westcott Venture Park, a 1.6MW solar park – complete with 6000 solar panels – and an anaerobic digestion facility for Shanks Waste Management is also being built. Once work is complete on the anaerobic digestion building the new facility will produce 3MW of energy. Specialist joinery and cabinet makers Philip Gameson Joinery was responsible for the construction of the new gatehouse which is located at the entrance to Westcott Venture Park. The gatehouse measures approximately 10 meters wide and 40 meters in length and was constructed from a mix of brick and block over a 16-week period. Philip Gameson Joinery Project Manager, Terry Smythe, said: “Our involvement with the Westcott Venture Park project and with Rockspring is very important to us. This is the first time we have worked with Rockspring and we hope to work with the company on future projects.” Discussing the benefits of the new additions to the site, Rod Mordey, commented: “With the addition of the new solar park and anaerobic digestion facility we are really pleased about the amount of energy that is being produced at Westcott Venture Park. Currently we use around 2,500 MW/h per annum, but we will soon be producing approximately four times this amount.” Rod added: “We have a good masterplan for developing this site with work taking place away from the village of Westcott in order to reduce noise. There are areas which we have identified as Heritage sites and these will be retained and we have also recognised ecological areas which are being managed to be respectful of the existing wildlife, which includes great crested newts, bats, badgers and barn owls. “Westcott Venture Park is a core asset for Rockspring. We have 70 tenants and we employ over 400 people at the site, attracting staff from both the Aylesbury and Bicester areas. We work with each of our tenants to make sure that they are kept in occupation, even through challenging economical times and the site is secure, which is very beneficial for our tenants as they know that their business will be safe when they close up each night.” For more information about Rockspring please visit: www. rockspringpim.com. ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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NHBC Pride in the Job Awards 2012 On June 22 NHBC announced the names of over 400 top achieving site managers who were recognised in the first round of the Pride in the Job Awards 2012. Names were shortlisted from over 13,000 UK site managers who have all excelled in their field over the past 12 months. Pride in the Job is the only UK-wide competition recognising site managers who achieve the highest level of standards in house-building. All site managers registered for NHBC warranty are automatically entered into the competition and to date A Pride in the Job Award is the highest industry accolade a site manager can achieve. For 32 years the award has been the driving force behind the production of top-quality homes in the UK.

Cliveden Grange receives NHBC Award The Cliveden Grange development is a collection of 45 four, five and six-bedroom homes in the heart of the charming town of Marlow. Today it’s a highly desirable and vibrant place, surrounded by beautiful countryside and only about 30 miles west of the centre of London. The town has excellent road and rail transport links and is popular with residents, visitors and businesses. Marlow also boasts a host of cultural attractions nearby, such as Winter Hill Golf Club, The Marlow Club with gym and swimming pool, Stanley Spencer Art Gallery, Wycombe Museum, Hugheden Manor, the River and Rowing Museum, Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre and Legoland Windsor. The project began in September 2011 and is due to be completed in July 2013. Senior Site Manager Phil Cataffo said: “We’ve bought a piece of land on the back of Great Marlow School. As it’s built on the back of the school it hasn’t changed the area and surrounding countryside too much, but it will improve the school facilities as they are using the money which they earned from selling the land to build a new sports centre. “We’re pretty much in the middle of the programme. All of the foundations are out of the ground and customers have moved in to some of the units. “The houses are mainly brick and block construction to a high specification. In terms of landscaping, it is quite a standard, straightforward development but there is a public open space with room for a play area to go in place.”

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The site has won a 2012 NHBC Pride in the Job Award. Phil said: “I was really happy about the award – it was the third year on the trot. We were very happy with the result and are looking forward to progressing onto next year. “This is actually my eighth award. I started off as a bricklayer then moved into the offices as an Assistant Site Manager in 1996. The recognition makes me a very proud Senior Site Manager – I must have fantastic site staff to achieve such an award. “I live elsewhere but travel here to work on this project due to the specification of the house type. I would like to thank my site staff; David O’Hare the Site Manager, the forklift driver and site labourer.”

ST Contracting Ltd ST Contracting Ltd are an internal floor and wall tiling company. They work for many of the large national house builders such as Barratts, Taylor Wimpey and Carla Homes. Tim Horwood, Director of ST Contracting said: “At Clivedon Grange we tiled the walls and floors in the bathrooms, en suite, toilets and kitchens. It was a big project and is an ongoing project, we have got other plots that we’ve got to do before it is completed. “We specialise in anything from basic ceramic tiling to porcelain, slate and natural stone. We work anywhere in the south of England so from Essex right the way over to Devon and Cornwall. We have a branch in Salisbury, one in Essex and our head office is in Wooten Basset in Swindon,”

Expanding Woodlands Park Woodlands Park in Great Dunmow, Essex is a grand housing development, comprising a mix of one, two, three, four, five and six-bedroom properties. The site has been under development since 1995 and continues to expand each year to incorporate additional housing units. Woodlands Park is owned by Wickford Developments, whose current plan is to construct between 1700 and 1800 houses on the site. Due to the extensive nature of the building work construction of Woodlands Park is being split into sectors, which is then subsequently divided into phases. Currently work is taking place on Sector 2 Phases Three and Four of the site and it is this Sector which has won a Pride in the Job Award for site manager Aaron Parradine. Aaron Parradine, commented: “This is the first award that I have won in my career and it highlights the hard work that has been put into getting Woodlands Park Sector 2 off the ground. “I first realised that I had received the award when I noticed my name appear on the NHBC’s website. It was a very pleasant surprise for me, even though Woodlands Park has become well known in the local area for winning awards. “This type of recognition is also great for our team and it really helps to boost morale on the site.” Before work began on Woodlands Park the site previously existed as farm land. With each new Sector taking place, the development expands into the existing land to incorporate additional units into the site. Aaron Parradine, said: “Woodlands has been up and running for over 15 years now, with houses being built to meet demand. We approach this work as an ongoing operation where we are creating approximately 30 to 50 new units each year. It is very likely that this project will continue for another 15 years. “I first started working on the project over two years ago and Sector 2 started around the same time that I came on board.” Like many of the award-winning developments that have received NHBC Awards, the houses on the Woodlands Park site are being constructed using traditional methods of brick and block, with timber joists, solid internal brick walls and facing brick exterior. The buildings also include UPVC windows, a Hallmark front door and front and back gardens. In addition to the landscaped areas included with each house, a number of open spaces have also been incorporated into the development to create green areas throughout the site. Aaron Parradine added: “Great Dunmow is a thriving little town in Essex and Woodlands Park has been instrumental in helping to expand the community. The site is perfectly located – with Stansted Airport just a short distance away – and for those wanting to commute to London, the development is ideal.” EJ Taylor & Sons is the main contractor on Woodlands Park Sector 2 Phases Three and Four, whilst John Finch Partnership is the architect. Paul Freeman Tiling Ltd is providing all of the internal ceramic wall and floor tiles on the project, which will be used within all bathrooms and kitchens. Paul Freeman Tiling Ltd has been involved with the Woodlands Park development from the beginning and will continue supplying tiles for the foreseeable future. Paul Freeman Tiling Ltd Company Director, Paul Freeman, said: “We have been involved with this site since its inception and we have seen Woodlands Park win quite a number of awards in this time.

“It is great to be involved once again with another awardwinning sector on this development and we look forward to continuing our involvement with each new unit.” Specialist painters and decorators KD & Z Waller Painters & Decorators has been involved with the Woodlands Park development for more than ten years. Since starting on the site the company has completed internal and external painting and decorating works on each housing unit. KD & Z Waller Painters & Decorators Company Director, Tom Waller, said: “Woodlands Park is a great site to be involved with. Everything is expertly organised – which is refreshing to see – and we are proud to be a part of the team.”

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Rewarding Gin Pit Village Phase Two Currently under construction in Astley is Gin Pit Village Phase Two. The development is being funded and constructed by Ben Bailey Homes who is also the main contractor and architect on the project. The second phase of the development – located near to Tyldesley – comprises a mix of three and four-bedroom detached properties, three-bedroom semi-detached houses and a number of muse houses. Work began on Gin Pit Village Phase Two in January 2011, following the successful completion of Gin Pit Village Phase One. Gin Pit Village Phase One began in 2008 and involved the construction of a mix of timber kit constructed apartments and three-storey muse houses. Gin Pit Village Phase Two was implemented due to the popularity of Phase One. A unique aspect of Gin Pit Village Phase Two is that potential residents can purchase properties off plan, which allows new home owners the opportunity to provide design input into the build. This level of personalisation allows buyers to choose their desired kitchen units, lighting and tiling, along with a number of additional fixtures and fittings. Ben Bailey Homes Sales Manager, Wendy Wright, said: “We pride ourselves on designing homes to meet buyer needs and this is exactly what we have done at Gin Pit Village. Feedback suggested that more three and four bedroom homes were needed in the area so that is what the new phase will provide. “We anticipate the new phase at Gin Pit Village to be very popular. It is set in a beautiful location with brilliant amenities and transport links close by. The development offers a range of house sizes and styles, which is a fabulous base to create a thriving community.” All of the buildings on Phase Two of the development are being constructed from brick and block. All windows, soffits and doors are being finished in UPVC and the roof is being finished in grey slate. Fencing will be placed around each property and front and back gardens will also be installed. Most of the properties will benefit from double driveways and there will be extensive planting taking place throughout the site. Although a communal green is currently located on Gin Pit Village Phase One a brand new communal area will also be incorporated on Phase Two of the site. Once work has been completed on all of the houses on Phase Two a monument will also be installed on the site to mark the historic significance of the former Gin Pit site. Ben Bailey Homes Site Manager, Martin Sharkey, said: “There’s a small village located towards the top end of this development which comprises the original Gin Pit Village which was connected to a gin pit and industrial works. We have kept this name and expanded the community for this development. “Located nearby there is also a large club house with pitches for cricket, rugby and football. A lot of events take place each year on this site and we get involved with these events to help bring the developing community together. “This has been a really good, straight forward operation so far and currently we are up to Plot 86 of this second phase. To

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complete Gin Pit Village Phase Two we have approximately 40 additional units to construct and given the current economical climate this will take place over the next 18 months.” Martin Sharkey added: “On a personal note I’m ecstatic about winning a NHBC Award. This is the second award that I have won in 2012 – following a Local Authority Award earlier in the year – but my aim was always to achieve recognition through NHBC. “For Ben Bailey Homes winning a NHBC Award is also very significant. In the North West region we haven’t won an award for around 20 years, so moving forward it is a great starting point for us to keep achieving more awards. “Winning a NHBC Award is good recognition for the company as well as the region. The quality of this site is very important and this award perfectly highlights this.” Gin Pit Village Phase Two is scheduled to reach completion in late 2013.

Nick Brasier scoops fifth NHBC Award The Heathside and Leftbridge developments on Sparta Street in Lewisham have scooped a 2012 NHBC Award. The Pride in the Job Award-winning regeneration scheme comprises 138 mixed tenure apartments in four blocks. Rydon Construction was the main contractor on the Family Mosaic and Lewisham Council project, with Nick Brasier scooping the award for his role as Project Manager. The architect was BPTW in Greenwich. Nick Brasier, Project Manager at Rydon Construction, said: “It’s my fifth NHBC award and I was extremely pleased that we got nominated and awarded Pride in the Job. It’s a great recognition for all the hard work and professionalism that was put into the coordination of the build.” The £18 million scheme started in August 2010 and finished on programme in October 2012. The apartments are one, two and three bedroom with the majority having a duel aspect view. The apartments have a mixed tenure integration of rented, shared ownership and private for sale and have been fully fitted with kitchens, white goods and flooring. There is also a green roof on all four blocks which are built to the Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4. Nick said: “The initial construction was an RC frame with Metsec facade with brickwork and cladding – it is a traditional build in a contemporary style. Work has progressed very well and we have a very satisfied client. The weather was an issue when it was quite wet last September and October but we just ploughed on through. “The buildings range from four, five and six storey’s which are all close together within a community of its own. We have sustainable municipal garden areas which were constructed on the podium slabs of two of the blocks, incorporated into a very detailed Secured by Design specification. We did employ an exterior landscape consultant, Outerspace, to design the hard landscaping palette to compliment the actual architectural design of the building. “It’s great to be putting the vibrance back into the area, there is a high volume of housing need within the Lewisham borough and it’s great to be a part of solving the problem.” An existing 1940’s building was demolished to make room for the development, which helps to meet the need for housing in the area. CDS Four have been in business for 15 years and were the painters and decorators on the Heathside and Leftbridge developments.

Wayne Douglas, Managing Director of CDS Four said: “We have worked on a wide range of projects, such as Queen Mary’s Hospital Sidcup and St Margaret’s Hospital in Epping, as well as a range of schools. Our work speaks for itself. I work extensively with Rydons on a variety of projects which shows the reliable service that we provide. The NHBC Award won by Nick on the developments in Sparta Street is an illustration of the quality of work involved. ” On his NHBC Pride in the Job Award, Nick said: “We were notified that we won in May this year and went to the awards ceremony in September. I think the job itself was a very good job for us. It was a very fluid job in which the end result was apartments which were handed over on time and to a very good standard for the tenants to move into. “In comparison to the other awards I have won this project wasn’t as big, but in terms of complexity of design it was about the same. We had a main boiler plant room generating heating and hot water to all 138 properties. “The team that I’ve had working with me were equally as dedicated and this recognition is a tribute to them for their hard work and endeavours.”

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The £250 million regeneration of Millbay A £250 million scheme to regenerate Millbay Docks in Plymouth is currently underway. Millbay Plymouth is a 1,500,000 sq ft mixed-use regeneration scheme, comprising of a number of new build projects for the residential, hospitality and leisure sectors. In addition, the scheme also includes associated infrastructure and public realm works – including the implementation of waterside access points on Clyde Quay and East Quay – and the construction of a brand new marina. The Millbay Plymouth project is being implemented by English Cities Fund (ECF), a partnership comprising three partners: Muse Developments, Legal and General and Homes and Communities Agency. ECF was created by the government to implement investment schemes in towns and cities and as well as the regeneration work that is taking place in Plymouth, ECF is also responsible for schemes in Salford, Wakefield, Liverpool and Canning Town. Throughout the scheme 650 residential units are being constructed, combining a mix of town houses, affordable homes and apartments. To facilitate the works on the project, the scheme has been divided into phases, also known as ‘cargos’. Phase One of the scheme – also known as Cargo_One – comprised the construction of 134 residential units and was completed in 2009. Ardmore Group was the main contractor on Phase One, whilst Bristol-based practice Ferguson Mann Architects provided all architectural services. During the first phase of works Galliford Try Infrastructure Ltd was appointed to conduct a number of important works on the site, including the dredging of the inner harbour, the restoration of the Listed quay walls and the creation of two revetments, as well as related infrastructure works. During the dredging of the inner harbour, approximately 50,000 m³ of materials were removed from the site and were later recycled to form part of a flood alleviation scheme. Millbay Plymouth Phase One won a RIBA Gold Award for its design. Phase Two of Millbay Plymouth – also known as Cargo_Two – is currently taking place on the site and comprises construction of a 48 units – combining a mix of apartments and town houses. Kier Western is the main contractor on Phase Two, whilst Ferguson Mann Architects is the architect.

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Following completion of Phase Two, a third phase, comprising 132 units and combing another mix of apartments and town houses will get underway. Work will begin on Phase Three in March 2013, with London-based practice HTA appointed as the architect. The main contractor for Phase Three is yet to be appointed. Muse Developments Projects Director, Robert Poole, said: “Millbay Docks is located approximately 400 metres from the centre of Plymouth. Throughout the 19th Century, Millbay Docks was a thriving working port but in more recent times – and specifically since World War II – the site has been in a state of decline. “The scheme that is being implemented is about regenerating the land and changing people’s perspectives of the area. The contemporary design of the scheme is a particular strength of the project, whilst the most challenging aspect is working within the historical context of the site and of course the large amount of existing infrastructure. “The main materials that we have used during the first and second phases of the Millbay Plymouth project include a combination of zinc, copper, Siberian larch render and brickwork and the scheme is essentially a contemporary design that has a great deal of emphasis on a quality design and quality materials.” Robert added: “Being a part of a regeneration scheme such as Millbay Plymouth is very important for Muse Developments. As both an individual company and as part of ECF, Muse Developments understands the need for regeneration schemes such as this and we are working closely with both private and public sector partners to achieve our goals. Also having the stamina to continue work throughout the duration of the project is something that is helping us to complete the works to the best of our ability. “Once this scheme is complete a significant area of Plymouth will be brought back to life. People will be living at Millbay and this site will become a prime destination for visitors.” The Millbay Plymouth project is scheduled to reach completion in 2020.

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Manchester City Football Club top of the table in hospitality Manchester City Football Club top of the table in hospitality Manchester City Football Club has refurbished three of the Etihad Stadium’s hospitality areas, wowing football fans and guests alike. The club’s most prestigious hospitality space, now named The Connell Club, has been entirely redesigned along with The Mancunian, a restaurant celebrating the city of Manchester and its cultural heritage. A number of hospitality boxes have also been customised, including the EA Sports Games Box where customers can enjoy an all-out gaming experience. Manchester City’s Marketing Manager, Justice Ellis, told Premier Construction about the project. He said: “As a club – whether in the stadium, hospitality or social media – we like innovation. “Originally the new stadium was quite grey – it didn’t have much of City about it. But as the stadium has been developed, colour has been added and that is what we are continuing to do through these spaces. “We wanted to match what we have achieved on the pitch with our hospitality offer, and we’re thrilled with the look and feel of these plans in anticipation of what is to come at the Etihad Stadium this season.” The work began in June 2012 and was completed in time for the start of the 2012/13 season at the end of August 2012. The main contractor for the work was the Manchester based fit-out company Styles and Wood. Justice said: “The Connell Club is the most prestigious hospitality venue- we chose the name because the word ‘club’ suggests a coming together of people and a sense of ownership. “Both The Connell Club and The Mancunian have been meticulously planned to represent the aspects on which the club is formed, from a proud history, unique culture and loyal fan-base. “Manchester City is a global brand, proud of its roots. We are ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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taking these spaces onto another level, expressing the character of the club and creating an experience unrivalled anywhere in world football.” The Connell family were instrumental in setting the foundations for Manchester City Football Club in the 1890’s. They saw a need to bring the community together and the outcome of their actions was the creation of St Marks Football Club, which became Gorton AFC in 1884 and eventually, Manchester City Football Club. This history of the club is reflected in the many original design features which give The Connell Club its unique, traditional feel. Justice explained: “We wanted to introduce brands within the main brand identity of Manchester City, in The Connell Club we have used two C’s facing each other, which is a reference to the initial crest of the club “You come through big oak doors featuring the emblem to meet a large concierge desk with the emblem imprinted in leather, it’s this attention to detail which makes it a really special place to be. “Also everything was procured locally – the art is from Central Station in Ancoats and the work was carried out by the

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Altrincham based fit-out firm Styles and Wood.” The Connell Club seats 220 people and features many special details to reflect the exclusivity of the restaurant. Each slate place matt is imprinted with the Connell Club logo and there are numerous design features which refer to the club’s roots. A 1900’s map of East Manchester is subtly placed on a wood panel on the ceiling at the entrance to the restaurant, marked on it is the location of the original stadium and St Mark’s Church, both important places in the clubs history. Within The Connell Club, the five Ambassador booths are the most exclusive seating in the restaurant and each is themed with a story referring to one of the positive attributes alluded to in the team’s original crest. These are bravery, honour, generosity, glory and loyalty – and each booth has its own commissioned panel above it to illustrate that attribute. The stories are also engraved on the edge of each table. Even the leather on the booth seating has been given extra attention to detail- and is stitched using the same hexagonal pattern used to make footballs. Directly above the Connell Club is The Mancunian, a place

where ‘City meets City’ as it is the one location in the stadium with superb views of both the pitch and the Manchester skyline. In the newly designed restaurant, the bar has been moved towards the back of the space and is surrounded by glass to prevent the obstruction of the room’s amazing views. Manchester City Football Club chose to base the modern restaurant on one of the things that Manchester is most famous for; music. This theme is reflected in a variety of design features within the restaurant, one of the most striking being a large vinyl record above the bar as you enter the space. The record has 11 grooves to show the 11 players on the pitch, and each groove is marked with lyrics from bands with connections to Manchester such as Oasis, the Ting Tings, the Chemical Brothers, 10CC and I Am Kloot. As you enter the restaurant, the lyrics meet to spell out ‘The place where rock and roll meets give and go. This is the Mancunian.’ This design feature was created by ‘Design by Music’ a local creative agency based in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. The music theme is shown throughout, including in the chains which separate the bar from the main restaurant, which differ in ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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colour to show the sound waves of much loved city songs. The leather place mats are imprinted with quotes from different Mancunians, such as Johnny Marr, Noel Gallagher and Mark Radcliffe. There is also locally commissioned art displayed on the walls which pays homage to city players such as Joe Hart, Alan Ball, Paul Lake and Mario Balotelli. Manchester City Football Club has also begun to come up with imaginative new schemes for the way fans experience the club’s boxes, which makes up the final element to the clubs hospitality refurbishment work. The club has teamed up with EA Sports to create a gaming box in place of what was a traditional 8ft x 11ft entertaining space. The fully interactive Gaming Box accommodates up to 10 people, offering EA SPORTS’ latest gaming releases, luxury gaming chairs, a 42” screen and PS3 gaming console. The box also benefits from an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the pitch. Justice said: “The new EA SPORTS Gaming Box thrills the senses, and offers an unrivalled combined experience for football and gaming fans. “From the moment you walk in, every detail has been thought of so that guests enjoy a fully customised experience – even boasting its own more informal catering – but with same usual high standard for a Platinum Box guest, including your own balcony seating and dedicated waiter or waitress. “This is a great thing for City to have as it means we are getting custom from businesses who previously might not have booked a box.” The EA Sports box joins specially customised boxes from Etihad Airlines and luxury watchmaker Richard Mille. The Harvey Nichols Experience Box is another example of Manchester City choosing to customise their available hospitality space.

This box includes a mixologist to run cocktail or spirit master classes, food and drink from the award-winning Harvey Nichols Second Floor Restaurant, a gift bag for all guests and the room is dressed with the latest fashions from Harvey Nichols. The Connell Club, The Mancunian, the EA Sports Box and The Harvey Nichols Experience Box are now open and available for booking. ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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Ambitious accommodation plans at Edge Hill A thrilling new development at Edge Hill University in Ormskirk, Lancashire has reached completion. Chancellors Court houses residential accommodation and comprises 384 en-suite student rooms. The three-storey development is divided into six separate blocks, and includes student bedrooms and shared kitchens. The new halls of residence provide students with an array of facilities that were made available to them in safe and secure surroundings and were built to the east of an existing sports centre. The contemporary living areas are environmentally friendly and are already regarded as some of the best student accommodation units in the sector. Project Leader, Pro Vice-Chancellor Steve Igoe, said: “For those moving away from home for the first time, many want the security and ready-made social life of halls of residence. The on-campus bed spaces are always in popular demand so I’m delighted that we were able to build additional accommodation in time for the influx of new students. “This is a remarkable achievement, constructing 380 bedrooms in 27 weeks, given the challenges presented by the wet conditions in April but our contractors worked around the clock to ensure the bed spaces were ready for the new term in September. “This project saw the commencement of the development of the eastern campus with this phase providing space for new student learning and living facilities. The University has ambitious plans to continue to invest in its student centered teaching and learning facilities and we believe that further investment is vital to sustain our attractiveness to prospective students albeit that the University is already recognized as having a campus that truly matches, in both quality and scale, the very best in the United Kingdom.” The contractors behind the scheme were John Turner and Sons who began work on the project in February 2012. ABW Architects provided all architectural services on the site. Chancellors Court reached completion in early September 2012 in time for the upcoming intake of new students. Built on a Greenfield site, the buildings consist of traditional masonry cavity wall construction with pre-cast concrete hollow rib floors. The exterior finish of the structure is made up of powder coated steel cladding and brickwork. The building is finished with an aluminium standing seam roof and has triple glazed windows with aluminium composite timber frames. Design features include solar thermal systems as well as a highly insulated envelope built to passiv haus standards with heat recovery in ventilation. A CHP unit provides heating and hot water. In comparison to previous accommodation, improvements were made in construction and performance to make this expansion more cost effective, whilst providing a bigger living space. Vice-Chancellor Dr John Cater, said: “This is excellent news for the University and the community, creating over 200 construction and 50 permanent jobs at a time of economic recession, part of our £55m of investment in the local area and providing international-class facilities for over 4,000 local users every week. “Once we received support from the Secretary of State, work started on site immediately. The end result saw the creation of the eastern campus which provides space for new student learning and living facilities for many years to come, making it a campus that truly matches, in both quality and scale, the very best in the United Kingdom.

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“We are very grateful for the support we have received from the Borough Council as we turned these ambitious plans into reality.”

Allingham House Care Home opens Allingham House Care Centre, located on the outskirts of Altrincham in Manchester, is now open. The project, led by New Care Projects LLP, began in October 2011 and the centre is currently welcoming its first residents. New Care Projects LLP combines contrasting industry skills sets to deliver new build care facilities. This vision combines the development expertise of Villafont Ltd, the physical construction procurement of McGoff & Byrne Ltd and the Clinical excellence of Dylan Southern, ex NHS Director and trained Psychiatric Nurse by profession. The architect was Street Design Partnership. Dave McGoff, Director of McGoff and Byrne Ltd commented: “Working closely with New Care throughout the design process enabled our team to ensure all that all the requirements for the day to day running of Allingham House are fully integrated. This is a building benefiting from the latest technology and systems to provide the very best care within the very best environment.” The home provides 82 single occupancy en-suite rooms and two suites designed for couples, all of which are well proportioned. The home also has sumptuously designed communal lounges, dining rooms and even an orangery. The home has been designed to have the feel of a boutique style hotel and is one of the only new build care facilities within the area fulfilling the demand in catering for residents with both dementia and nursing care needs. Bank of Ireland UK provided the funding for the project. Derick Barrett, Relationship Manager at the banks offices in Manchester, said: “When New Care Projects LLP approached us for funding we had no hesitation in supporting a business that is looking to provide high quality purpose built care homes in the region. “Bank of Ireland UK is committed to supporting local customers with strong and viable businesses. We take pride in building and developing strong relationships with our customers at every step through their business journey.” Commercial Law firm Heaton’s LLP handled the commercial, banking, corporate, property and construction advice required for the scheme. James Flynn, Partner at Heatons, said: “We are delighted to be involved with a modern and innovative care provider such as New Care. We worked closely with New Care and Bank of Ireland to secure a development facility of close to £10 million to fund the construction of Allingham House. “Given the current difficulties in obtaining development finance

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from the major banks, we are proud of this achievement and of being a part of New Care’s success. The end product is credit to all those involved.” A partnership has been forged with Trafford College to provide training opportunities and employment for young people. The partnership saw Trafford College source and train an initial cohort of 15 Apprentices who will be employed after a 1 year Apprenticeship training programme. Sir Bill Moorcroft, Principal of Trafford College said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with New Care Projects to deliver their staff training and support them with the launch of their new care centre. Working in the Care sector can be a very demanding and challenging industry, which is why it is essential that businesses have a committed and skilled workforce to help them grow and meet the challenges ahead. “We are glad to work with New Care Projects and supporting them in the vital work they do for our local community”.

S Wyatt Decorators are proud to be associated with McGoff & Byrne Limited and wish them continued success. Tel : 0843 515 88 50 S Wyatt Decorators Limited 220 Higher Road, Urmston, Manchester, M41 9BH.

Celebrating history at the Irish World Heritage Centre A new centre to celebrate the worldwide Irish community is under construction on Queens Road in Cheetham Hill, Manchester. The £4 million first phase of the project will embrace an Irish global family of 70 million people through the creation of the Irish Diaspora Museum, which will boast collections, documents and exhibitions to present the history of Irish emigration and the development of the global Irish family. The main contractor for the project is Willmott Dixon Group and the architect is Ellis Williams Architects. Phase 1 began in October 2011 and is scheduled for completion in December 2012. Funding has been provided via grants from the Irish government and Manchester City Council, with further monies sourced from the sale of the existing centre and funding provided by The Co-operative Bank. Prior to the project, the site was a former domestic tip and Victorian brickworks. Comprising approximately 1,300 sq metres, the steel-frame building spans two storeys and includes a double-height entrance hall, exhibition space and a bar, shop and kitchen. Additional facilities include a multipurpose hall, a business centre and an education centre. The building has incorporated timber cladding and glass curtain walling, whilst further features include a copper effect roof and elevations that have been constructed using natural stone sourced from County Donegal in Ireland. To date, the external envelope is complete and the building is now watertight. The stone cladding of the exterior is currently

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being erected, whilst the implementation of the services and internal finishes has also recently commenced. Paul Stanion, a consultant for Davis Langdon LLP, an AECOM company that is providing project management and CMDC consultant services on the project, commented: “This is an extremely interesting building as it tells the story of Irish emigration to the five continents of the world. The curved building features a 2-metre high natural stone wall that creates a large circular external area, in turn replicating an old Celtic ring fort design – which is something that is commonly found in Ireland. “As visitors come through the double-height entrance, they will walk over a stone floor that has incorporated the names of all of the Irish families who have travelled to the four corners of the Earth. The centre of the ring fort will house marquees for weddings, whilst visitors who walk outside will walk over a bridge over water, signifying the Irish travels over water to emigrate. “The new Irish World Heritage Centre will be an important facility for both the Irish community and many other ethnic communities in Greater Manchester, and the building is on track to achieve a BREEAM rating of Excellent. “Phase Two of the project is the next goal, and will see the construction of a new conference centre and restaurant complex. This phase will commence following a fundraising campaign.”

McMonagle Stone Since 1974, family-run business McMonagle Stone has special-

ised in the manufacture and supply of natural stone products for use in the construction industry. The company owns five quarries – including two quartzite, two sandstone and one granite site – and has worked on many high profile projects including the restoration of St Columb’s Cathedral in Derry, South West Acute Hospital in Ulster and Dublin Port Tunnel. In addition to its current range of stone products, McMonagle Stone has recently launched a new product, McMonagle Stoneer – a natural stone which is light and easy to install. On the Irish World Heritage Centre project McMonagle Stone is manufacturing and supplying 2,500 tonnes of McMonagle Stone for use on the site, including a mixture of silver and gold quartzite for use on the exterior of the centre building as well as on the wall that surrounds the open-air ring fort.

McMonagle Stone Company Director, Daniel McMonagle, said: “For a period of time we were involved with the design team to discuss the project requirements, the specification of stone, how we would prepare the stone and how it would be selected for the project. “Colour and thickness were very important considerations so we had to work very closely with the design team to supply the correct products. In terms of supplying stone in the UK this is one of the largest projects we have been involved in.” Daniel added: “Working on the Irish World Heritage Centre project is very important to us. The project has secured jobs for us, which in the current climate is vital and for us to supply 2,500 tonnes of stone walling for a project in Manchester is brilliant.”

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Premier Inn breaks the mould in Manchester A new build Premier Inn has just been completed close to Piccadilly Station in Manchester. As the fifth Premier Inn in the city centre, architects have worked hard on the design of the new hotel to ensure it fits in with the existing buildings in this historic area of Manchester. Using Manchester’s industrial past as inspiration, the design of the building has taken elements from the surrounding warehouse structures. Project Architect Andrew Edmunds from Manchester firm Roger Stephenson Architects told Premier Construction about the new build project. He said: “The design is a contemporary interpretation of the historic buildings around that area of Piccadilly, the design took influence from adjacent warehouse buildings to ensure it would be in keeping with the surrounding context.” The main contractor on the £10 million project was Russells Construction Ltd and the architect was Roger Stephenson Architects. The project began in the planning stages in 2010 and was completed in September 2012. The hotel opened in October 2012 for customers. The building, which is only 200 yards from Manchester’s Piccadilly Station, provides 193 rooms over 11 storeys; with front of house facilities, conferencing facilities and event space on the ground and basement levels with views over the canal. Andrew said:

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“The building has been configured to respect the scale of the adjoining buildings, whilst ensuring Dale Street is treated as the prominent street frontage and elevation, with views over the canal basin. Lena Street is an intimate environment, and the reduced scale of the proposal along Lena Street aims to engage with the six-storey height of the adjacent warehouse structures, re-instating the urban grain associated with the density of warehouse structures so evident throughout Manchester. “The carving of the mass has been implied with the use of a different material, which provides a subtle variation and interest to the treatment of the façade’s. “The external facade was predominantly brick; we used two types of black brick, one had a slight reflective coating that was used for the majority of the façade. The other was a matt finish that was used to articulate the recesses/carving within the main form. “The massing has been distributed around the site to reflect the character of the adjacent streets, with Lena Street being a lot narrower than Dale Street, resulting in a reduced mass on Lena Street and more articulation at lower levels to reflect the more intimate environment of this street.” Before completion the project was already award-winning, scooping first place in the Unbuilt Commercial category at the 2012 MSA Design Awards. Andrew added: “Although we have completed other projects within this sector,

including the Radisson Blu in Manchester, the Premier Inn was a great achievement in producing a project of architectural merit on such a limited budget.”

REC Ltd Resource and Environmental Consultants (REC) Ltd specialise in environmental and geotechnical consultancy and offer a diverse range of technical services including, acoustics & vibration, air quality assessment, ecology, flood risk assessment, land regeneration, health and safety training, renewable energy system installation and asbestos and legionella compliance. REC has been operating since 1995 and has grown from a single office in Manchester to 14 regional offices in 2012. This allows them to offer a national consultancy with a strong emphasis of local, sustainable, project delivery. On the premier Inn, REC advised on ground conditions, ecology, flood risk, noise and vibration and air quality. Andy Edgar, Associate Director at REC Ltd said: “This project gave us an excellent opportunity to show that REC has diversified and matured into a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy and our consultants always take great pride in being associated with the successful delivery of a major development. “As we work in a wide number of technical disciplines our client base is also extremely varied and the temptation is to list prestigious national clients that we work with, like Premier Inn, Redrow Homes, Persimmon, Russell’s, CBRE Investors and Global Renewables. However, all of our clients are important to us and on a local level we also work on single property developments for private individuals. “We pride ourselves on being focused on solutions, for both large and small projects, but we also pride ourselves on being approachable. With 14 regional centres anyone who wants advice can be sure that they are speaking to a local professional who understands their needs completely.”

McAvoy Group are pleased to be associated with Russells Construction and have been proud to work on the new Premier Inn in Manchester City Centre.

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City View: Lancaster’s landmark project Situated on Greyhound Bridge Road, Lancaster, City View is a brand new apartment block comprising 30 units. The three-storey building was constructed for social renting purposes and includes ten apartments on each level. Seddon Construction was the main contractor on City View and Halsall Lloyd Partnership provided all architectural services on the site. The £2.7 million project was part-funded by the Homes & Communities Agency, with additional funding from Lancaster City Council. Historically the site where City View was built housed a railway siding, however, more recently the land was home to a car park which was used by the local railway club. Work began on the project in spring 2011 and reached completion in spring 2012. In addition to the new building, a brand new access road, called Siding Close, was also installed at the site during the construction process. City View was built using traditional methods of construction, with block work walls, pre-cast concrete walls and a reconstituted stone render on the exterior facade. Grey UPVC windows were also installed on the building and an aluminium standingseam roof was used to complete the development. Internally the apartments are situated between a central corridor with a staircase located towards the main entrance of the building. The corridor features alcoves around the entrance, which were painted in different colours to enhance the design of the interior. In describing the new development, Halsall Lloyd Partnership Architect and Associate, Steven Gallagher, said: “A circular white rendered drum announces the main entrance and contrasts with the stone work. The protruding balcony structures peel away from the facade, creating dramatic shadows as the sun moves around the building.” Steven added: “City View features a mix of one or two-bedroom apartments, with two of the ground floor units specifically designed to cater for residents living with a disability. Each of the apartments includes robust fixtures and fittings, as well as external balconies and some, but not all of the apartments have a view of the city.” City View is a landmark, contemporary building situated along a quayside, so the overall design of the building is in keeping with the historic site. The building has already achieved Codes for Sustainable Homes Level 3 and approximately 10% of the energy used in the building is generated from photovoltaic (PV) panels, which are located on the roof. In addition, all of the apartments were designed to meet the requirements of Lifetime Homes and City View has also achieved Secure by Design accreditation. Discussing the new build project, Steven said: “The project was fairly straight forward, although we did encounter a few challenges. “As City View is situated alongside a river the building is located within a flood risk area, so the development had to be elevated above the already designated flood risk levels. As this was a key issue, City View was actually built one meter above the existing risk levels and then this aspect of the project was integrated into the design. “As the site was previously a railway siding, the site was also contaminated prior to work taking place, so this was something which had to be addressed. Space around the site was also fairly restricted, with one side of the site sloping steeply away. These issues were a construction and design challenge but Seddon Construction handled all of the challenges very well.” The majority of the existing trees around City View were retained, whilst the approach to the building was heavily landscaped. Twenty-three car parking spaces were also installed around the development, with the parking bays located at both

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the front and back of the site. Three of the bays are reserved for disabled residents. Steven said: “City View was a good project to work on. We have completed work on quite a number of social housing projects but in terms of the way in which City View looks, this is a very special building. It is a prominent site and the client was very supportive about creating something a little different, to make this a high quality development. “When the site was completed an opening event was held, where we got to speak to many of the residents and everyone remarked how happy they were with the building. “A great deal of local trades was used during construction, the whole team worked very closely together on the project and we are all very proud of the work we have completed.”

Rudston Brickwork Rudston Brickwork is a brickwork subcontractor specialising in a wide variety of projects across the UK, from hotels and care homes to student accommodation projects. Rudston Brickwork became a limited company in 2007 and is currently working on a regeneration scheme in Halton to create 160 new houses. Previous projects include a new hospice in Bury and a number of Premier Inn projects for Balfour Beatty, including most recently a hotel in Solihull. Working on City View, Rudston Brickwork completed all the brick and block work on the project. Using localised stone the company also constructed balcony pillars which were built independently of the building. Rudston Brickwork Contracts Manager, Colin Bowness, said: “We are always looking to extend our portfolio and projects such as City View help us to achieve this goal. Our aim is to always to leave a project with a happy client. “At Rudston Brickwork we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and we always meet our deadlines.” Rudston Brickwork Ltd is a highly experienced Bricklaying specialist operating throughout the UK. We have built a reputation for providing high quality cost effective solutions for a wide range of clients. We pride ourselves and meeting high standards whilst beating programme dates.

Tel: 01925 851060 Mobile : 07528 857888 Email : rudstonbrickwork@hotmail.co.uk

www.rudstonbrickwork.co.uk Rudston Brickwork Suite 002, Newton House, Birchwood Park, Warrington, Cheshire, WA3 6FW

Tytherington High School expands Tytherington High School and Specialist Science College based in Macclesfield, Cheshire, is enjoying the benefits of an extension as the new school year begins. Main contractor Kier Construction built a two storey classroom block to replace existing temporary mobile units. Designed by architect Pozzoni Ltd, the £2.7 million project began in November 2011 and was completed in July 2012. The new building replaces eight classrooms which were located within three mobile units, and sees the conversion of two existing classrooms into additional IT suites. Alex Halford, Senior Design Manager at Kier Construction said: “The building includes five classrooms split over two floors, together with staff accommodation. We used a piled foundation solution with a ground floor slab; the first floor slab was concrete with fibre mesh reinforcement. For the roof we used Ward’s Topdeck composite roofing panels. “The walls were brick rainscreen with a secondary metal frame which was insulated and waterproofed. All the windows were polyester coated aluminium with double glazed coloured glass. We also did some external works, but the majority of the playground was tarmac.” The project will help Tytherington High School to reorganise the existing and new teaching facilities to provide a better arrangement for each subject department. The new building will allow all the English classrooms to be in the same building, as well as ICT classrooms and the Sixth Form department. Alex added: “It was a fairly straightforward job. The only issues we had were with it being a very small site and being on a main road, it made all our deliveries quite difficult. We were also limited in terms of deliveries because of school hours. All deliveries to the site had to be outside of these times, for example when the school was opening, closing and at lunchtimes. “We kept the costs within a budget that the council wanted so we were slightly limited with what we could do in terms of innovation. “The classrooms are now being used and it will improve the way the school works. Before work was conducted all the English classrooms were spread over a number of buildings so now they are all together in one block. The team worked very closely and it was a good, successful contract. The clients were very happy with what they got and the team worked very well together.”

Kier Construction Kier Construction provides a comprehensive building and civil engineering service delivered through a nationwide network of locally managed businesses. Kier Construction has national and international major building, civil engineering and mining capabilities. The division is also complemented by specialist businesses offering design engineering, building information modeling and interiors & refurbishment. Kier Construction is part of the Kier Group, a leading construction, services and property group. The Kier Group specialises in building and civil engineering, support services, public and private house building, property development and structured property financing. The Group employs nearly 11,000 people worldwide and has an annual revenue of £2.2bn.

EWS Bolton Ltd Extruded Window Systems Ltd (EWS) provide and install window systems, curtain walling, door systems and other glass products. They offer a range of services including design, fabrication, manufacture and installation. EWS Bolton Ltd are also able to provide bespoke solutions for clients and offer a project management service to coordinate the design, manufacture and installation process and provide high levels of customer support. EWS Bolton Ltd has worked on various education projects including Tytherington High School, as well as Bolton Arena and the Lewis’ building in Liverpool.

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Restoring Howsham Mill A £1 million project to restore Howsham Mill back to its former glory continues to make good progress. Howsham Mill is a Grade II Listed building situated on a small island in the River Derwent, and is located approximately five miles outside of Malton, North Yorkshire. Work began on the site in 2004 with the restoration divided into two phases. Phase One of the project – the restoration of the Granary – was completed in 2007. Meanwhile work is currently taking place on the second phase of the project, which comprises the construction of a new oak first floor level, the restoration of the original pyramid shaped roof, replacement of missing and damaged stonework and the installation of electrical services. Once work is finished on the site, Howsham Mill will be transformed into an environmental education centre, complete with a part time education officer. The Renewable Heritage Trust, which owns the island and mill, is implementing the restoration work, in consultation with the Environment Agency, Natural England and Ryedale District Council. Stephen Pickering Traditional Building Services Ltd is the main contractor on the Howsham Mill project, whilst Ecoarc is the design architect and Gez Pegram is the structural engineer and project manager. Funding for the restoration of Howsham Mill is being provided by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Country Houses Foundation

and the Renewable Heritage Trust. Secretary of Renewable Heritage Trust, Martin Phillips, said: “The purpose of the Renewable Heritage Trust is to restore buildings of architectural interest that have the potential for renewable energy generation. We work on one project at a time and with Howsham Mill our aim is to give the building a new purpose by generating hydro electricity from an Archimedes

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screw turbine and the restored waterwheel.” Martin added: “The Mill is really two buildings. One part is a very ornate mock gothic style structure ‘measuring approximately 8 m²’ and contains the stones and gear work. The second part – the Granary – is situated towards the rear of the site and is a single storey building which originally stored grain. “Over the last 60 years Howsham Mill has suffered a considerable amount of deterioration – including a fire and partial roof collapse during the 1960s – however the main structure of the building has remained fairly intact. Therefore a key objective of the project is to retain the existing architectural features where possible so that externally, Howsham Mill will look very much like it did when it was abandoned in the 1950s. “Our aim for this site is to do very little when it comes to changing the original style and ornate appearance of the Mill.” A significant milestone for the Howsham Mill project came in 2006 when the mill featured on the BBC’s Restoration TV programme. Although the project didn’t win the grand prize it did benefit from being a part of the show, as Martin explained: “We got to the series final and although we were not successful on winning, we did receive some funding that remained after the winning project had used all the funding it needed. Being involved with the Restoration process was certainly well worth it for helping us achieve our goal.” Whilst the restoration work is taking place at Howsham Mill all efforts are being made to ensure that the project is delivered sensitively. To further facilitate the work, a heavy horse has been employed to transport equipment to the site. The horse’s involvement on the project has been vital for transporting scaf-

folding to the site where there is no access road. Martin said: “The restoration of Howsham Mill has become a very important part of my life. I live in a nearby village and have always known the mill as a derelict ruin. “My role is to encourage everyone involved in the restoration to do as good a job as they can, so that future generations will know the mill as a more productive site. We are putting in a lot of effort to ensure that the work is to the best possible standard. “Once the project is complete the Renewable Heritage Trust will be offering visits for school students – beginning in Easter 2013 – so that we can teach them all about the benefits of hydroelectricity. I’m interested in the environmental importance of the river, the need to expand renewable electricity and the agricultural heritage of the locality so I’m pleased that we will be able to showcase this to groups. We will be able to cover the heritage of the area in the broadest sense.” Phase Two of Howsham Mill is scheduled for completion in February 2013.

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Improving facilities at Cross Lane Hospital A £10.4 million project to refurbish and extend facilities at Cross Lane Hospital in Scarborough is nearing completion. The redevelopment project comprises the construction of a speciality care assessment and treatment unit – to replace outdated facilities – and the refurbishment and extension of the existing Ayckbourn Unit. The project is being implemented by Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust and is due to be completed in October 2012. Cross Lane Hospital has long been the hub for mental health services for adult’s and elderly residents living in Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale. Once work is complete on the site, the new modern and spacious facilities will allow staff to provide more individualised care for patients, specifically those who are living with complex needs such as Alzheimer’s or depression. Kier Northern is the main contractor on the project, whilst Richard Eves is providing all architectural services on the site. Service Director for North East Yorkshire for Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, Adele Coulthard, said: “The new developments at Cross Lane Hospital will meet the inpatient needs of local people and enhance the levels of mental health services that we provide, moving them into modern, upto-date buildings with enhanced therapeutic and modern living space. Many people have worked very hard to reach this point and we were pleased to be working with Kier Northern on this project.” Work began on the project in March 2010 with the construction of the new speciality care assessment and treatment unit. Construction of the purpose-built unit includes the installation of 20 assessment and treatment beds, four day spaces – reserved for partial hospitalisation care – a training office, meeting rooms and a board room. To decorate the new unit, artwork and photographs have been specifically chosen to be a prominent feature of the site. In particular, corridors are lined with images which make recognition easier for dementia patients. Before any work took place on the new build phase of the project, site staff sought advice from the Dementia Services Development Centre at Stirling University, along with careers, staff and patients to establish the best ways to improve on existing services. On the first day of the project Kier Northern Operations Director Tyd Gray presented Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust Chairman, Jo Turnbull, with a specially engraved spade to mark the occasion. Once work was complete on the new speciality care assessment and treatment unit, the refurbishment work on Ayckbourn unit got underway in summer 2011. Trust Chairman, Jo Turnbull, said: “The people of Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale deserve the very best health care facilities and we will have a wonderful new hospital for people with mental health problems and learning disabilities.” Kier Northern Operations Director, Tyd Gray, added: “This is a tremendous facility and we were delighted to work in partnership with the Trust to deliver this project. We enjoy working with the Trust and its partners, who have clearly spent considerable time and effort planning and preparing the project for the construction phase. Combined with our expertise and experience in the mental health sector this is a beneficial project for all.”

Kier Group Divided into three main divisions – Kier Construction, Kier

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Services and Kier Property – the Kier Group’s activities cover building, civil engineering, residential and commercial property investment, as well as surface mining, facilities management and PFI project investment. Kier Construction is involved with a large number of projects spanning across the length and breadth of the UK as well as overseas. Meanwhile, Kier Services provides a full life-cycle service for buildings in both public and private sectors, which includes buildings and grounds maintenance. To round out the divisions within the group, Kier Property is a successful private house builder and commercial property developer.

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Delivering Bradford’s new birth centre A £1.2 million project to install a new birth centre at Bradford Royal Infirmary is nearing completion.

The Bradford Birth Centre and Labour Ward Redevelopment project comprises the full refurbishment of the existing maternity suite at Bradford Royal Infirmary, including the installation of two new birth pools, a full-sized DDA compliant wet room and a lift. The project is being implemented by Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and once complete will provide a seven-bed midwife-led unit for the Infirmary. Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Project Manager, Shane Embleton, said: “Part of the Department of Health ‘Maternity Matters’ agenda is to provide expectant mothers with a wide choice of care facilities for when they are giving birth. One of these care facilities is a midwife-led unit which is not run by doctors. The unit is predominately for normal, uncomplicated births which require little intervention and is all about giving the patient a choice for their birthing needs. “We haven’t been able to provide this service before, so we are pleased that we are finally able to do this now. This is a completely new addition to birthing services in Bradford.” Work began on the redevelopment project in November 2011. The main contractor on the

project is Illingworth & Gregory Ltd, whilst all architectural work is being provided in-house by Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. In addition, the Trust is providing all of the funding for the project from its Capital Programme. Work on the redevelopment project includes the installation of new flooring, ceilings, lighting and sanitary ware, along with a full programme of decoration works. Meanwhile heating and ventilation systems will be improved and wall murals are being added to make the facility more homely. An important addition to the site is the new lift which will create a private link between the labour and post natal wards. The lift will allow patients to convalesce away from the public areas of the building and is part of the Trust’s commitment to improving services for patients. Pickering Lifts was responsible for the manufacture of the lift, which was constructed off-site and built in four sections. The lift was then installed over a two day period to minimise any disruption to the day-to-day running of the hospital. Whilst work is taking place at Bradford Royal Infirmary the unit remains a fully functional labour ward so the project is being completed in seven phases which are designed to work around the daily running of the facility. Currently work is taking place on Phases Six and Seven of the project. Shane commented: “We are running the work in phases so that we can keep the unit open whilst the

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redevelopment takes place. In essence, each phase is similar to the next however by tackling the project in phases we are able to shut three existing delivery rooms down at a time whilst we still keep the service up and running. “The only difficulty is keeping the service consistent whilst completing the work. This would be a challenge in any situation, but especially in maternity where there is a high risk of infection. However we are constantly keeping on top of dust control and are flexible when required to reflect the needs of the service for our staff and users.” Shane added: “With this project our aim is to create a calming environment for patients. As we are committed to improving the patient and user experience we have also consulted user groups so that we get this new unit right first time. From what we learn from this project, we will take on to future projects which include a £2m expansion of Neo-Natal services in 2013.” The Bradford Birth Centre and Labour Ward Redevelopment project is scheduled for completion in November 2012.

£9 million York Sport Village opens to the public The development of a brand new campus at the University of York has seen the creation of a state-of-the-art sports village. The £9 million York Sport Village project has been jointly funded by the University and the City of York Council, with support from Sport England. As part of a master plan for the University’s Heslington East campus, the village boasts a competition-standard eight-lane 25-metre pool and a training pool. Further facilities include a 120-station fitness suite; three studios for dance, spin and aerobics; a full-sized 3G Astroturf pitch and three further five-a-side pitches. All of the facilities are available for use by students, staff and the public since the centre’s phased opening on Friday 31st August. Main contractor for the project is Sir Robert McAlpine and the architect is Space Architects. David Coundon, Architectural Director at Space ROMA PUBLICATIONS

N o r th E a s t & Yo r ks h i re said: “This is a key building in a prominent location that is highly visible both from within the Heslington East Campus expansion and from the surrounding road network. As a result, the building not only provides an outstanding sports and leisure facility, but also serves as a landmark for both the University and the City. “This has been a great opportunity for us to work with an informed client body who had the vision to create a truly magnificent development. It is a prestigious building with high quality finished- both inside and out- and we have managed to deliver this on programme with a relatively modest budget. As a company, we are very proud to be involved with this fantastic new building.” The stunning York Sport Village has incorporated coloured metal cladding panels with resin-faced architectural blocks in light blue and dark grey-blue. Featuring extensive glazing throughout, the centre also celebrates the metallic silver standing seam roof that curves down gracefully from the double-height space above the pool hall. A large overhang shades the glazed façades from the sun, whilst the pool boasts unrivalled views of the surrounding countryside. Interestingly, the first-floor gym can be seen clearly outside the building – providing a tantalising glimpse of all of the sporting activities on offer. Professor Brian Cantor, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of York said: “York Sport Village is a superb sporting asset for our students and for everyone in the city. It reflects our commitment both to enhance our students’ experience at a world class University,

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and to contribute to the health and well-being of people throughout the city. “Our sports and recreational facilities for students, staff and the community are already outstanding, and York Sport Village takes them to an even higher level.” Councillor Sonja Crisp, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Social Inclusion, added: “York Sport Village will provide a state of the art facility for residents across the city and I’m delighted that work has been completed in this, an Olympic year. We know that an active lifestyle brings a wide range of long term benefits and I hope that people of all ages will enjoy the fantastic facilities on offer at the site.”

Expanding Allam Marine A £4.5 million project to construct an office and manufacturing complex for Allam Marine has been completed. The project was undertaken on Melton West Business Park and was implemented by property developer Wykeland Group. The complex was commissioned by generating sets manufacturer Allam Marine in order to facilitate its ongoing expansion plans. The state-of-the-art development adds 65,000 sq ft to Allam Marine’s existing 190,000 sq ft base, enabling it to double manufacturing capacity and increase its warehousing and distribution space by a third. Assem Allam, Allam Marine, commented: “We have watched the building get closer to completion over recent months and have been very excited about moving in. “The new headquarters means we will have the space we need to continue our strategy of growth without having to look for premises elsewhere. “The building looks fantastic and is very befitting of Allam Marine’s status of being the UK’s largest independent manufacturer of generating sets and one of the biggest in Europe. It will showcase to the many foreign visitors we receive, the quality of commercial developments that are being created right here in East Yorkshire.” Work began on the Allam Marine project in October 2011. Hall Construction Services Ltd was the main contractor on the project. Wykeland Group Managing Director, Dominic Gibbons, said: “The Allam Marine building is a landmark building on what we

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N o r th E a s t & Yo r ks h i re believe is East Yorkshire’s most desirable commercial development. We are extremely pleased with the finished product; it is bold and modern in design, yet built very much with function in mind. “Finally being able to hand the keys to Assem represents another significant step forward in the growth of the Melton West Business Park. It will enable Allam Marine to continue its long run of unbridled success and that is great news for the company and for the wider regional economy.” The Wykeland Group began construction of Melton West Business Park in early 2008 and since this time the group has developed more than 550,000 sq ft of premium commercial space at the site. Now that work is complete on the Allam Marine project, the building joins additional facilities at Melton West Business Park, including Heron Foods, House of Townend and shower manufacturer Kohler Mira.

Hall Construction Services Ltd Established in 1974, Hall Construction Services Ltd specialises in building and civil engineering works. The company has over 300 members of staff and with offices in South Yorkshire, Co. Durham and Scotland it has amassed an enviable portfolio of projects throughout the UK. Hall Construction Services Ltd conducts work on both public and private projects, including industrial/distribution schemes, sports stadia construction, site reclamation and housing projects. In addition to Hall Construction Services Ltd’s work on the new facility for Allam Marine, the company has successfully completed projects for clients including Peel Holdings, Shrewsbury Town FC, Taylor Wimpey Plc and One North East, amongst others.

Strengthening Rothbury Bridge A £3.5 million scheme to strengthen a bridge in Northumberland is continuing to make great progress. The Rothbury Bridge Strengthening project is a three-year scheme which involves strengthening existing sections of the bridge and the installation of new elements across the four-span masonry structure. Work began on the project in May 2010 and is being funded by Northumberland County Council through the Local Transport Plan – a funding mechanism from central government sources. Due to the nature of works involved on the Rothbury Bridge Strengthening project, the scheme has been divided into three phases. Phase One involved the erection of a temporary bridge and was completed in 2011 whilst Phase Two comprises the strengthening of the existing bridge and the removal of the temporary bridge. The final phase – which will take place in 2013 – will involve the removal of the temporary bridge’s foundations. Rothbury Bridge will reopen to the public later this year. The main contractor on the Rothbury Bridge Strengthening project is Northumberland County Council. Northumberland County Council Senior Engineer, Peter Brewis, said: “Northumberland County Council is very much a breed apart these days as we still have an internal specialist bridge department. The bulk of the workforce has been provided by us, however there are many aspects to the project and these have required specialist input from piling and masonry to drilling teams. All of the design work on the project has been conducted by our in-house team.” Peter added:

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“Before we started on this scheme we spent a great deal of time discussing the bridge with experts, so that we could achieve a better understanding of how the structure works. “We have taken off the 1970s pre-cast concrete elements, we have excavated the structure internally and we have strengthened the existing arches with the addition of masonry thrust blocks. We then reinstated the full width of the bridge – including two footways and two carriageways – with the installation

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of a pre-cast winged cantilever to create the finished width of the deck.” In order to facilitate the work on Rothbury Bridge, an approach road was created on nearby land so once the project is completed the area of land will undergo a small amount of landscaping work. As Rothbury Bridge is an ancient monument all of the work on the project is being approved by English Heritage. In addition, special consideration is also being taken to protect nearby wildlife, so every aspect of the project is being carefully organised in conjunction with Natural England. Peter said: “The project is taking place through the middle of a thriving community, with the bridge splitting the town into two. The hospitals, emergency services and housing are located on one side of the town, whilst the town centre is situated on the other side. “This is certainly one of the most complex schemes that I’ve ever come across working for Northumberland County Council. I am sure there are other schemes which are far bigger and far more complex, but to bring all of the different aspects together in such a confined site has certainly been a challenge.” In order to ease traffic in the affected area, Northumberland County Council has set up a one-way traffic system on one side of the town which has already proved very effective for reducing traffic congestion. Peter said: “The first section of Rothbury Bridge was constructed in 1460 from sandstone and was just wide enough to carry a horse and carriage and in 1750 the bridge was widened. In 1908 footways were added and in 1971 concrete sections were renewed and modern steel railings were installed on pedestrian areas. “The project that we are now involved with will see stone parapets added and these will be carried by a winged cantilever across the bridge. “The feedback that we have received from the community makes this project feel very worthwhile. The community have had something of a carbuncle living in their midst for many years now but once this scheme has reached fruition the bridge that we will give them is exactly what they have always hoped for.” The Rothbury Bridge Strengthening project is currently on programme and is scheduled to reach completion in autumn 2013.

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Pyeroy Limited Providing access scaffolding to support the repair and refurbishment of the 15th Century Rothbury Bridge in Northumberland requires not only a delicate touch but the specialist expertise, skills and project management capability that only a company like Pyeroy, with its track record on other similar projects, can provide. Pyeroy, which has eight operating centres located around the UK and Ireland, has extensive experience in undertaking bridge projects as well as an industry wide reputation for quality of work, safety standards and professionalism. Scaffolding systems for structures like Rothbury Bridge require skilled and adept engineers to deliver projects, no matter how complex, on time and to budget. The use of turnkey management solutions is recommended best practice as it provides clients with clear benefits in project planning, control and cost effectiveness, while quality and contract monitoring systems ensure projects are completed on time. It’s also important to consider a contractor’s experience of working at height over water. This can have a major bearing on how well a project is completed and, if not properly addressed, can have implications in terms of project overruns and health and safety issues. Pyeroy’s history of working on other bridge projects includes the most famous re-painting job of all time, the Forth Rail Bridge, which was completed in 2011 after more than 10 years of work and involving contractors repainting more than 30,000 metres of structural steelwork. The company also gave one of London’s most iconic structures – Tower Bridge – a fresh coat of paint to make sure it was pristine as London prepared to welcome the world for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Other bridges the company has been involved with include the High Level Bridge, which spans the River Tyne between Newcastle and Gateshead, and the refurbishment of London’s 120 year old Blackfriars Railway Bridge – all projects demonstrating how developing effective refurbishment and maintenance programmes with a partner like Pyeroy can only be an advantage in protecting major assets. For more information please visit: www.pyeroy.co.uk.

University of Sunderland upgrades the historic Priestman Building The University of Sunderland’s Priestman Building, which dates back to 1939, is undergoing a £6.5 million restoration project. The two-phase project began in March 2012 and has seen the building transformed to integrate the university’s Fine Art programmes with the existing activities in the building . The work forms part of the ongoing development of the University’s two-campus strategy and incorporates a new entrance to improve the Priestman Building’s connectivity with the City Campus, as well as a new art gallery, high-quality teaching and learning spaces, social space, arts studios and workshops. There are also significant improvements to the building infrastructure including energy efficient lighting, heating and data connections as well as a new roof and windows, continuing the University’s push to achieve its carbon reduction targets supporting sustainability both at the University and within the City. Main contractor on the project was Morgan Sindall and the work was completed in September 2012, accommodating the Fine Arts, Performing Arts, Culture and Social Sciences disciplines. Conservation issues were taken into consideration while renovation plans were being drawn up as the building, which dates back to 1939 when the industrialist Sir John Priestman opened it originally as a library for Sunderland Technical College, sits in a large conservation area. During the Second World War, the College ran special courses for the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Labour. By 1946, the College had 840 full and part-time students and 1,485 evening class students.

New course development in the post-war period included the department of housecrafts, recognition of the ‘…modern woman’s realisation that she must have appropriate training if she is to play her part more effectively in her chosen trade, profession or in the home…’ The late 1950s saw further expansion as the College sought the status of College of Advanced Technology and it was the first educational centre in the region to install a digital computer. This hi-tech innovation required a crane to haul it through the roof of the building – a far cry from today’s laptops and iPads. Head of Estates at the University, Iain Garfield said: “The Priestman development is part of the two campus strategy which sees ongoing improvements at both City Campus and Sir Tom Cowie campus at St Peter’s, improving the staff and student experience and the strengthening of curriculum

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N o r th E a s t & Yo r ks h i re development by collocating academic areas with subject synergies whilst at the same time disposing of buildings outside of the two-campus estate. “One of the features of this redevelopment is the re-sitting of the entrance of the building from Albion Way to face the University Park, improving connectivity to both the City Campus and the park itself.” Morgan Sindall has a recognised specialism in the higher education sector and has delivered previous projects for the university as part of its £20m Major Works framework, including CitySpace, the £12m sport and social facility, and the £8.5m Sciences Complex. Gordon Ray, managing director for Morgan Sindall in the North East, said: “The Higher Education sector is under considerable pressure to maintain world-class facilities and attract students in a financially squeezed market. We’re therefore delighted that in this

challenging climate, our track record has seen us appointed to this framework for the second time. “Morgan Sindall has developed experience in the education sector and we’re looking forward to delivering more high-quality facilities which will attract the best students to embark on their studies in the region.” James Harrison, associate in construction and engineering at law firm Watson Burton, which advised the University on legal matters surrounding the multi-million regeneration project, added: “The refurbishment of the Priestman Building is a major part of the University’s plans to further establish Sunderland as a leading city for the provision of higher level education. “As a firm, we take a keen interest in the development of the region’s education sector and are delighted to have been able to assist the University of Sunderland and Morgan Sindall in progressing with redevelopment of this building.”

New paper warehouse for the Port of Hull A brand new state-of-the-art warehouse is about to begin construction in Queen Elizabeth Dock. The 9,500 sq meter building will be built by Hull-based contractor Hobson & Porter for Jenkins Shipping and will be used to handle and store paper and forest products. The warehouse will add to the 133,500 sq meters of covered storage space that already exists at the Port of Hull which is currently dedicated to paper and forest products. Hobson & Porter Managing Director, Jason Papprill, said: “Hobson & Porter has been known locally as a builder for many years, but this demonstrates the scale of our growth and our ability to undertake work on a wide range of building types not traditionally associated with the company.” The warehouse project got underway after Jenkins Shipping signed a five-year agreement with Associated British Ports’ (ABP) Port of Hull for the handling and storage of paper and forest projects. Once work on the warehouse is complete Jenkins Shipping will use the new facility to store and import paper reels manufactured in Sweden by Holmen Paper AB. Jenkins Shipping Commercial Director, Rob Stewart, said: “We are very pleased to be entering into this agreement with ABP which expands upon our existing business together. We have a close working relationship with ABP in Hull and we trust them to deliver. Our aim is to provide world-class facilities, service and care to Holmen Paper and to expand the Hull Service to other Jenkins customers.” ABP Port Director Hull & Goole, Matt Jukes, said: “We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Jenkins Shipping to make the Port of Hull the main hub for Holmen Paper’s UK business. Our investment in the new warehouse consolidates the Port of Hull’s position as the natural distribution centre for paper and forest products from Scandinavia and

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the Baltic. To exploit our key location we have the skills require by Jenkins Shipping to provide a seamless service.” ABP owns and operates 21 ports in England, Scotland and Wales, covering approximately 12,000 acres of land and seabed across the UK. Together with additional transport-related businesses, ABP has a UK-wide network which is capable of handling every conceivable type of cargo and ABP’s other activities include rail terminal operations, dredging and marine consultancy. In 2011, ABP’s Port of Hull handled 700,000 tonnes of paper and forest products. For more information about ABP Port of Hull please visit: www. abports.co.uk.

Rotherham Central Station opens to the public Rotherham Central railway station has been greatly improved thanks to a £8.5 million redevelopment project. The station, which officially reopened in July, now has stateof-the-art facilities including new lifts and stairs which provide better access for passengers. Construction work began at the station in spring 2010. Other areas of the station which have been improved include a new ticketing office, new waiting room, new lighting, improved passenger information screens and entrance. South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) Director of Customer Experience, David Young, said: “We are confident that customers will be impressed with the significant improvements in the station’s facilities, which we hope will contribute to making the town a much more vibrant, successful and healthy place for people to live, work, visit and invest in.” The project has been led by South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) in partnership with Network Rail, Northern Rail and Rotherham MBC. SYPTE is pleased to acknowledge that the redevelopment of the station has been generously supported by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund 2007-13. The station provides a modern new gateway to the town and was designed by architects Aedas. The project is a key element in the Rotherham Council’s 25 year vision to redevelop the town, providing high quality retail, leisure, office, residential and public spaces. Through their competition-winning design, Aedas wanted to ensure that the station became a catalyst for regeneration and investment in Rotherham. Aedas designed a bespoke lightweight structure incorporating enclosed stair and lift towers to both platforms. This includes distinct platform canopies creating a spacious and airy environment while providing shade and lengthened platforms connecting new vertical circulation and providing longer operation platforms. They have also incorporated other elements and materials, such as cedar to provide a softer interface within the hard palette of industrial materials. The brief also required the station to improve physical and visual connectivity within the town centre together with improved passenger accessibility, sustainability and the potential for the future expansion of the station. Alistair Branch, Associate Director at Aedas Leeds Office told Premier Construction about the redevelopment. He said: “The project started in late 2007 as an initiative between SYPTE and Yorkshire forward as a scheme to enhance the existing station with a focus towards providing a new gateway to Rotherham. “Part of the original competition design concept was to use the lift shafts as a beacon for the station – we made them taller and incorporated signage and glazing into the design with internal and external lighting to the lift shafts to illuminate them and signify the stations location.” “The main inspiration for the station was to provide a contemporary, modular, lightweight structure with improved permeability and passenger comfort with an industrial aesthetic to the building, reflective of north light architecture. The design developed at concept stage is almost identical to what is open and operational today and that is testament to SYPTE and Yorkshire Forward’s focus on design quality. We worked closely with the client and stakeholders to drive the scheme to make sure it retained the concept integrity that they selected at competition stage.” ROMA PUBLICATIONS

N o r th E a s t & Yo r ks h i re Sustainability has also been an integral part of the client’s requirements, achieving a BREEAM accreditation of ‘very good’. In addition to sourcing local materials and carefully considering what materials should be used, renewable technologies have been incorporated through rain water harvesting and photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of the main entrance building. To begin integrating the new station into the town, SYPTE are undertaking a final package of gateway works to finish the connection between the station and adjacent canal with improved seating, lighting and landscaping. Alistair added: “The design of the new station has sought to unify the elements of the station within a coherent architectural approach, using form and structure to create a dramatic and architecturally impressive gateway, enhancing the user experience and greatly improving the town centre.”

Galliford Try Galliford Try is a national house-building and construction company delivering industry leading performance. With a history dating back to 1908, Galliford Try has evolved through the decades to become one of the UK’s leading housebuilding and construction groups. Galliford Try work on a whole range of projects in a wide variety of sectors including education, health, housing, hotels, sports facilities and stadia – with revenues of £1.5 billion. Galliford Try’s vision is “to be leaders in the construction of a sustainable future” which is underlined by their objectives of; focusing on improving the built environment; to be the best in the industry; and to ensure the long-term success of their business by contributing economically, environmentally and socially to the communities in which they operate.

Business development in Darlington A new Travelodge forms part of a prestigious £3.5 million new development on Yarm Road in Darlington. The development on the Yarm Road Interchange Darlington business park comprises a new 60 bedroom Travelodge above single storey retail units and a new Toby Carvery. There are also new industrial and warehouse units under construction within the development, providing 17,500 square foot of space. The site is close to an important business district for the North East, which includes offices for Orange, Northgate, Darlington Building Society and Cummins, which sits within a Grade II listed factory building. The main contractor is Marshall Building Contractors (Elland) and the architects are Wake Architects Ltd and BMS. Peter Liddle and Matt Turner are Project Managers on the project. The mechanical and electrical consultant is Farrel and Partners and the structural consultant is JPG (Leeds). The project began in early 2012 and is due to be completed in November 2012, the project is currently undergoing finishing touches. The main materials that have been used in the construction are blockwork, render, curtain walling and single ply roofing. Externally, the building is finished in render and cladding. The building is highly energy efficient with solar panels and CHP unit. There is also some external work and landscaping involved in the project. The Travelodge will house 60 bedrooms on the upper floors with reception and office staff facilities at ground floor level. There is n site dining at the Toby Carvery and more facilities will

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be provided through the adjacent speculative retail opportunities. The site provides excellent access to the A67 and A66 which then in turn provide access to the main motorway network. Darlington also has direct links to London Kings Cross in 2 hours 30 minutes. Gary Wake, Director at Wake Architects said: “It is a very important project to the practice in today’s market and represents a significant undertaking from the developer. We are pleased to have been involved.”

Midlands & East Anglia

Constructing MIRA Technology Park A £300 million project to create a new UK business and technology park in the north west of Hinckley is underway. The MIRA Technology Park is being built for independent vehicle engineering consultancy, MIRA. The project comprises the creation of a new state-of-the-art Engineering Centre and Technology Park to replace existing buildings with modern low carbon designs, and the creation of new community cycle paths and sporting facilities. In addition, new lakes will also be created on the site whilst a number of trees will be planted around the development. Once work is complete on the project, MIRA Technology Park will provide a unique opportunity for transport sector companies to base their European R&D operations in a central UK location. Deeley Construction is the main contractor on the MIRA Technology Park project, whilst Geddes Architects is providing all architectural services. Work began on the project in early 2012. The site spans 87.5 hectare and at present work is divided into a phased programme which will take place over a ten year timeframe. Throughout the planning and the construction stages of the project, MIRA is working closely with local authorities - including Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council - to keep an open line of communication regarding the work. In addition, MIRA received a significant investment of £19.4 million from the Regional Growth Fund to help the company to increase its business growth. MIRA Chief Executive Officer, George Gillespie, said: “This is a pivotal moment in our 65 year history. It paves the

way for an unprecedented period of growth for our business and will turn the international spotlight on our region – attracting investment, boosting jobs and benefiting local businesses. “We worked closely with both councils and the Highways

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Agency throughout the planning process and are delighted that this show of local support equals that which we received from the government - which saw us granted Enterprise Zone status and awarded £19.4 million from the Regional Growth Fund. “Having met with Nick Clegg MP to explain our engineering capabilities, the job creation potential and inward investment opportunities that our expansion represents, I was very gratified with the result – which will help to create 2000 jobs. “This is an excellent example of government working together with the private sector to encourage growth and investment – which in our case was critical for the creation of the 155,000 sq m MIRA Technology Park development which incorporates a new MIRA engineering centre and firmly establishes both the region and the UK as a centre of excellence in transportation R&D.” The money provided by the Regional Grant Fund will be used to improve roadways around the park – including junctions along the A5 – whilst at the same time will reduce the need for future private investments. Commenting on the Regional Growth Fund investment Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council Leader, Councillor Stuart Bray, said: “I was delighted with the fantastic news which is great for MIRA and great for the Borough. This will help guarantee the delivery of over 2000 new jobs to the area, many highly skilled. It will also secure major, much needed improvements to the A5, particularly at the notorious Redgate, Longshoot and Dodwells junctions. “The Council worked closely in partnership with colleagues at MIRA on the bid and will continue that work on helping to deliver the exciting plans for the new world class transport Technology Park.” MIRA Technology Park is scheduled to reach completion in 2020.

Construction News

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New medical centre breathes life into old hospital The £5 million Hume Street Medical Centre, built on a disused part of the Kidderminster General Hospital site, is almost complete.

The project for a new primary care centre is to replace the premises of the Aylmer Road and Northumberland House surgeries. Planning work on the project began in 2005 with a successful competitive bid by the consortium led by Haven Health properties Ltd and it is due to be completed on 2nd October. Main contractor on the 3-4 storey building is Wildgoose Construction and the architect is BRP Architects. Alan Sankey, Director of BRP Architects and project architect said: “The project is extremely complex – the only available suitably located site was occupied by several disused buildings and a staff car park at Kidderminster General Hospital. In order to make the site deliverable we had to demolish 7,000 square metres of redundant hospital building and relocate a 250 space car park. The site slopes significantly and there was

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insufficient area to satisfy the needs of both our developer client and the Hospital Trust. “The site is divided into two levels – the upper level which is the primary care centre and its car park turning itself away from the hospital – and the lower level which is the re-provided staff car park for the hospital that sits partly underneath the building as an undercroft and partly in the open air.” The new building will house two doctor’s surgeries, a pharmacy and a private clinical suite. Alan told Premier Construction: “The site is very much an area of transition between Victorian terraces- being traditional and small in scale- and the monolithic blocks forming the rest of the hospital. We have created an environment which tries to respond to the brutish scale of the hospital on the one side, to the more interesting and varied scale of the residential properties on the other and at the same time through the careful consideration of the scale, massing and external wall finishes break the building down into manageable forms and create a strong presence with an identity of

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it’s own. “In terms of the design of the building the central entrance is flanked either side by the private suite and pharmacy and leads directly into the heart of the building crossing the light airy axial spine to the combined reception desk of the two GP practices. The waiting areas, off either side, are both top lit by substantial light wells and present themselves to the exterior of the building with full height glazed corners. In some respects we have created a central naturally lit mall with glazed ends and roof running between the two and three storey elements. “We’re pleased to have been involved in this high profile project and look forward to seeing the facility benefit the local community.”

Restoration of St Barnabas Church St Barnabas Church in Birmingham looks ready to reclaim its crucial role as the hub of Erdington High Street after being destroyed by fire five years ago. The £4 million project was granted planning permission in September 2010 to repair and rebuild the Grade 2 listed Victorian church. The church was set alight by arsonists in October 2007, completely gutting the church apart from the basic stone walls and church tower. The roof and internal floors, which were timber, were completely destroyed, as well as many of the church’s beautiful stained glass windows. Reverend Freda Evans said: “This church was built 150 years ago to meet the needs of its community. Those needs have changed and the church can now change with them. “The additional spaces we have been able to add through this rebuild are suitable for church occasions, as well as providing incredible areas for community use including a large first-floor meeting room, a huge second floor lecture hall and a welcome space that offers cafe facilities. For the first time in the church’s history, we are also able to offer full disabled access and facilities throughout the whole building. “Our nomadic existence as a worshipping community during the last few years has certainly confirmed the need for a visible and central place to gather.” The works are being completed by Oldminster Developments Limited as main contractor in succession to Linford Bridgeman Limited who ceased trading last year. The architect is Brownhill Hayward Brown. Charles Brown, Project Architect from Brownhill Hayward Brown said: “It was essential that we were able to make the space usable

and versatile, and make the most of the original parts of the church which remain. Included in the restoration is a predominantly glass side extension creating an open community space. “Much of the materials used are steel and glass, as we didn’t want to simply recreate what was there before but give the church a new lease of life for a modern congregation. St Barnabas now offers a peaceful and uplifting environment, which could be used to provide meeting and conference facilities for up to 150 people, a concert venue, and inspirational spaces for wedding receptions and parties, in addition to the spiritual activities within the building” The project is on programme to be completed in December 2012.

Midlands & East Anglia

Constructing Woodcock House A £900,000 project to construct a new unit on Compass Point Business Park has reached completion. The project was implemented by Boden Properties and comprised the construction of a 5,200 sq ft building, which was divided into a dance school and office space. Work began on the project in February 2012 and reached completion in August. Northampton based contractor, Warwick Burt Construction was the main contractor on the project, whilst Pick Everard provided all architectural services on the project. Boden Properties Ltd Managing Director, Nick Bould, said: “To be building another phase on Compass Point Business Park is extremely important to both Boden Properties and the town of Market Harborough. The completion of this latest phase on the park has proved that there is demand for a unit like this and has allowed us to continue the expansion of the development in spite of the current economic climate. “The dance school which is now housed at Woodcock House has served generations of children in Market Harborough for the past 30 years and now that work is complete on this unit it will be able to provide an even better service for the town.” Situated in Market Harborough, Compass Point Business Park is a 12 acre site which includes a number of office spaces, boasting a range of features including open plan layouts, air conditioning, designated car parking and ready equipped tea points. Woodcock House is the latest development to be constructed on the site and is split into two very distinct facilities. The two-storey building was constructed from a steel frame, with a slate roof, aluminium powder coated windows and a brick and cedar wood clad exterior. The dance studio – which forms three fifths of the unit – includes purpose built sprung dance floors, whilst additional work on the project included car parking, external lighting and soft external landscaping.

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Nick said: “Compass Point Business Park is located on the edge of the rural market town of Market Harborough, bordering the open countryside. The materials we used to construct Woodcock House were chosen so that the building would blend sympathetically with the environment. “As part of the overall design of Compass Point Business Park there is a landscape scheme which sets the standard for the whole of the site, so we ensured that this new development also incorporated this design. “The project ran very smoothly and this was a credit to Warwick Burt Construction. They ran a very tidy and efficient operation providing a high quality of workmanship completed on programme and impressing both ourselves and the building’s purchaser. “Prior to work taking place on this site, we completed similar phases which included the construction of smaller office buildings, as well as larger B1 units. The master plan for the site allows for more of the same to follow.”

BGL Group expands head office BGL Group, one of the UK’s leading Personal Lines insurance groups, has expanded its Peterborough headquarters as the business continues to grow. The 30,000 sq ft building was officially opened by the Mayor of Peterborough, George Simons and will house the 200 people that make up two of the company’s business divisions – comparethemarket.com and ACM. The building also has space for a further 100 to support future growth requirements. The new £10 million Saxon House is next to the BGL Group’s existing head office Pegasus House. The company employs 2,400 people and 1,600 are based in Peterborough, making it an important company for the city. Peter Winslow, Group Chief Executive of the BGL Group, said: “The BGL Group started out in Peterborough almost 20 years ago with just a handful of staff. We have grown steadily ever since and now have more than 2,400 employees across the Group. “We’re continuing to expand and are proud to be building our own premises for the first time, to ensure we have the space we will need for the future. It is an attractive building and the design means that the construction had a minimal impact on the local environment.” Planning permission was granted in April 2011 and construction work began on the project in June 2011. The build was completed in July 2012. The architect was David Turnock Architects and the main contractor was Watson and Cox. The office has unique references to the company, for example two floors of the new comparethemarket.com office take inspiration from the successful ‘compare the meerkat’ advertising campaign. This includes murals of Aleksandr Orlov as you enter the third floor office.

ACM, the company’s claims management business, is another successful area of the Group and has also moved in to the new building. ACM provides an immediate response to claims from customers of the BGL Group’s own insurance brands and those of its partner brands, such as organising courtesy cars or repairs. Peter Winslow added: “The BGL Group has grown significantly over the past few years and our new building provides us with the flexibility for further expansion without having to move from our current location. “We are all extremely proud of our new building and have worked hard to ensure that the design – both inside and out – is attractive and reflects the BGL brand. This is the first time we

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Midlands & East Anglia

have owned our own premises and it is a move which further cements our commitment to future growth.” There are also plans to construct a second building to support the ongoing expansion of the company.

Watson and Cox (Construction) Ltd Watson and Cox (Construction) Ltd is a Wellingborough-based main contractors in the traditional and design & build construction sectors. It has developed a long established reputation since its formation over 40 years ago, delivering a portfolio of projects in both public and private sectors across a wide range of industries and markets. These include industrial, commercial, retail, education, residential, leisure and healthcare, with values ranging from £250,000 to £6 million. Darren Wallace, Construction Director, said: “We were the main contractor for the new BGL Group offices, appointed to initially obtain planning consent and thereafter develop the design and then construct the building from start to finish. “It was an exciting and interesting project and we were

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involved right from the inception by BGL to design and build the project to meet specific requirements. However, part way through the design and build process, BGL’s usage requirement for the building slightly changed. Due to our flexible approach, we were able to ensure its contemporary requirements could be delivered without detriment to the project delivery or its performance. “Originally designed as open-plan office space, the primary challenges were to ensure that the mechanical and electrical services installation was adapted to deliver the required internal environment. The changes part way through the project involved the introduction of significant cellular offices and meeting rooms. Whilst challenging, this was successfully managed and is testament to the efforts and flexible approach of the team involved. “Our customer-focused approach enables us to fully understand what our clients require from each facility – from the design to the building process. Our strong reputation for delivery has been earned because we finish projects on time and we consistently deliver projects of the highest quality.”

New apartments at Four Oaks Located on the Four Oaks estate in Sutton Coldfield, Wyvern Court is a brand new apartment block comprising 13 stunning apartments and a 16-space basement car park. Work began on Wyvern Court in January 2011 and was completed in May 2012. The £2.2 million project was part-funded by BA Cashmore Ltd, with additional funding provided by private investment. BA Cashmore Ltd’s construction contractor, Cashmore Contracts Ltd, was the main contractor, whilst The E Studio was the architect on the project. L&R Interiors (Midlands) Ltd was responsible for the interior partition and ceiling work on Wyvern Court and was also responsible for boarding the rafters in the building’s penthouse. The company were involved with the project throughout the duration of the works. L&R Interiors (Midlands) Ltd Company Director, Lee Roydes, said: “We were happy to be involved with the Wyvern Court project at Four Oaks as it presented us with the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the quality of our work. A project like this is exactly the type of work that L&R Interiors (Midlands) Ltd specialises in.” Wyvern Court was built using traditional methods of construction, using brick with a standard 4inch cavity and platinum eco beading insulation. Each floor in the building is constructed from 200 mm concrete planks, whilst windows feature A Rated double glazing and the roof is tiled. A lift was also installed into Wyvern Court to provide residents with access to each level of the building. In addition, sound dampeners were also installed in the building – to reduce outside noise to 32 DB – whilst solar panels were included on the roof to reduce energy costs.

Features of the apartments at Wyvern Court include open plan lounges, fully fitted kitchens – complete with fridge/freezer, washer/dryer, an oven and dishwasher – as well as contemporary bathrooms and bedrooms. Additional features of the development include underfloor heating and high-specification condensing boilers. BA Cashmore Ltd Managing Director, Simon Edwards, said: “Wyvern Court is a very interesting building to look at. The exterior building incorporates a mock-Tudor design on the facade and around the gables, whilst internally it is a very contemporary development. “Throughout the construction of Wyvern court we encountered no major problems. We had to close a couple of roads whilst the utilities were being installed, but this was just standard with a project like this and everything ran on programme and within budget. “Wyvern Court was built close to a section of woodlands, so we

RLP Roofing Contractors Ltd are pleased to be associated with BA Cashmore and happy to have been part of the Wyvern Court project.

Tel : 07863 397128 Email : rphollidayroofing@hotmail.com

RLP Roofing Contractors Ltd 40 Heygate, Aldridge, Walsall, WS9 8SD

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Midlands & East Anglia kept many of the existing trees and then planted some new, four meter high young trees which have perfectly blended in with the surroundings. The trees will mature nicely on the site and along with additional planting and the inclusion of some barked areas the landscaped sections of the site work very well.” Simon added: “Getting a project such as Wyvern Court off the ground was very important for us. We have a lot of staff and subcontractors who rely on projects like this and without new builds such as this getting off the ground then work would be few and far between. “Wyvern Court turned out to be a fantastic job, with great finishes and top-of the range fixtures and fittings and we were very pleased with the end result.” RLP Roofing Contractors conducted most of the roofing works on the project, including the installation of the pitched roof, guttering, porches and all of the vertical tiling. The company has worked on a variety of projects with BA Cashmore and is soon set to work with the contractor again on the Walney Ash Road project. Paul Holliday, RLP Roofing Contractors Ltd, said: “Working on Wyvern Court was very important to us, especially

during a period of the year when work is sometimes quiet. Wyvern Court was the largest project that we have worked on with BA Cashmore and we look forward to continuing our great working relationship with them.”

Kettering General Hospital is transformed An exciting £30 million project has seen the creation of a new three-storey development at Kettering General Hospital in Northamptonshire. The Foundation Wing includes a new paediatric outpatient department with six consulting exam rooms and an acute 28-bed medical ward on the ground floor; a 16-bed intensive care unit on the first floor and an integrated 32-bed paediatric unit on the second floor. The acute care ward features a central nurse base, which is essentially the ‘hub’ of the unit. All of the spaces between the beds are designed to facilitate extra beds in the case of an emergency, whilst the beds can also be separated in their individual cubicles if required. Two isolation rooms are available to aid infection control, whilst important facilities such as overnight stay areas and waiting rooms are also available. Further facilities include ward administration offices and staff rooms. Designed with flexibility in mind, the centre also takes into account the patients’ need for privacy and dignity. Most of the rooms in the paediatric unit are single rooms, with overnight facilities for parents available in either the room itself or adjacent to the ward. The Foundation Wing is set to achieve BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ due to the significant emphasis on sustainable construction and the innovative use of the building. The project has been delivered through the ProCure 21+ framework with main contractor Interserve. Architects for the project are Devereux Architects Ltd. Action Demolition Ltd was responsible for the demolition and soft strip works. As work took place next to live wards, Action Demolition Ltd worked sensitively to minimise dust and disruption at all times. Action Demolition Ltd Contracts Manager, Paul Richardson, said: “It was great to be involved with this project as it offered us a new challenge and allowed us the ability to adapt our skills.” On the Kettering General Hospital project, Approach Personnel Ltd is supplying site staff included skilled trade’s people, cleaners, laborers, machine operators and drivers, in order to back up the on-site workforce. Approach Personal Ltd has been involved with the project throughout the duration of the works. The project marks the first time that Approach Personal Ltd had supplied personnel for Kettering Hospital but the company has vast experience working on a variety of similar schemes. Approach Personnel Ltd Managing Director, Alan Spalding, said: “Kettering Hospital is a high-profile, prestigious project, so we

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were very happy to be selected to supply personnel on this project.” KGH Director of Strategy and Partnerships, Mike Smeeton, said: “The new development is really moving ahead quickly now and we have seen a lot of progress. The facilities it will provide will be a superb and enable us to really modernise the way we provide care – particularly intensive care and care for children. “For example, the new intensive care unit will have 16 beds when fully open – twice what we have the moment – and each bed area has been designed with 360 degree access so that in an emergency there is plenty of space for teams to work in. “The paediatric unit will also have flip-down beds at the side of each child’s bedside to make overnight stays more comfortable for parents. “Overall, this will be a major improvement to the facilities at KGH and it will also help us to free up space in the main hospital for future developments.”

Action Demolition Ltd Action Demolition Ltd was responsible for the demolition and soft strip work on the new link building which connects the old hospital with the new hospital. As work took place next to live wards, Action Demolition Ltd worked sensitively to minimise dust and disruption at all times. Action Demolition Ltd Contracts Manager, Paul Richardson, said: “It was great to be involved with this project as it offered us a new challenge and allowed us the ability to adapt our skills.”

Approach Personnel Ltd are proud to have worked on the Kettering General Hospital Project with Interserve. Tel : 0844 8709703 E Mail : enquiries@approachpersonnel.co.uk www.approachpersonnel.co.uk Approach Personnel Ltd, Castle Cavendish Business Centre, Dorking Road, Nottingham, NG7 5PN

For over 17 years, Sylvan Furniture has designed and manufactured bespoke and contract furniture for use in the leisure industry, specifically hotels. Sylvan Furniture specialises in the manufacture of casegoods, which includes headboards, bedside cabinets, wardrobes and desks, as well as free-standing furniture. Sylvan Furniture is able to work with clients at all stages of the design and manufacturing process and manufactures its products at its UK-based factory in Nottinghamshire. Throughout its operation Sylvan Furniture has worked with many leading hoteliers, including Ramada Hotels and InterContinental Hotels Group, amongst others, and has provided furniture for a number of boutique hotels. In addition, Sylvan Furniture has completed furniture fit-out schemes for many office projects, designing and manufacturing a range of products, from boardroom tables and reception desks to office separation screens. The company has also manufactured furniture for care homes and private schools. Whilst working on an office scheme with Defra – Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs – Sylvan Furniture achieved a BREEAM Award for environmental excellence.

Sylvan Furniture produces a diverse range of furniture to suit the needs of a range of clients: The Milanese Range – a free standing cost effective range, available in both veneer and MFC. The Arlington Range – influenced by Shaker in design, a robust free standing range aimed at those clients with more individual non modular requirements.

The Matrix Range – a contemporary range of high quality furniture, offering bespoke flexibility. Boutique – through design and manufacture Sylvan Furniture is able to provide good quality exclusive ranges ideal for boutique hotels. Executive Contract Furniture – the combination of up-to-the-minute design awareness and flexibility enables Sylvan Furniture to develop and manufacture high tech executive furniture. Sylvan Furniture Sales and Marketing Manager, Amanda Page, said: “When manufacturing our products, Sylvan Furniture works within the industry timeframes of between six and eight weeks, but we always aim to turn around our work as quickly as possible. “Sylvan Furniture is a family-run business and some of our members of staff have been with us since they left school. We run an apprentice scheme and this has helped us develop many professional, skilled cabinet makers within our business.” Amanda added: “Sylvan Furniture specialises in working with independent designers and independent hoteliers, turning their concepts into furniture. Our company has two directors and between them they have expertise in both the design and production of high quality furniture.”

For more information about Sylvan Furniture please visit: www.sylvan-furniture.co.uk

Or call: 01623 812565 Mill No1, Pleasley Vale, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG19 8RL

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New Asda store comes to Ferring A new Asda store in Ferring, West Sussex, is almost complete. The new single-storey store will be over 120,000 square foot in total, with a selling area of over 60,000 square foot. The value of the project is between £12 million and £15 million. The build will be a bespoke Asda store in order to comply with planning regulations. Built on the site of the former Country Fayre Garden Centre, the store will have Rockspan clad walls and a Scandinavian softwood timber clad front in order to blend in with the surrounding buildings. Ian Gallaway, Construction Manager at RG Group said: “It’s an area that Asda have been trying to get into for a long time. It’s what they call a non-model store, which is something they don’t normally do. They have different model store sizes so it’s been quite challenging from a design point of view. “There were a lot of planning conditions with regard to the look of the building – it’s bespoke for an Asda store. We used timber cladding on the front to try and match in with the many garden centres in the area and there is a lot of landscaping and planting to blend in to the current surroundings.” The project started in March 2012 and the store will open on 5th November. The principal contractor is RG Group and the architect is HGP Architects. The store will provide a range of facilities including an opticians, George clothing range, pharmacy and photo department. Services provided include a bakery, fish counter, pizza counter, rotisserie and butchers. There will be a car park with 522 spaces and highway works are underway to create a new entrance to the store. Ian said: “Everything has been on programme and gone smoothly – the only issues we’ve had are due to the poor

weather over the summer, particularly as the site is close to the coast. It’s a large site and when you’ve got plenty of space to play with it makes life a lot easier, with logistics and material storage during times of bad weather. “The project is now 90 per cent finished. We are just finishing the highway works and the car park. The service yard is complete and the store is almost complete – all we are doing now is finishing some partition walls, plastering and decoration. We have also begun to lay floor coverings, both vinyl and soft flooring. The mechanical and electrical installation is eighty percent complete and the roofing and glazing are both finished. As this has been a one-off design rather than a model Asda store, RG Group and HGP Architects have been able to introduce new projects to the build. “The FSC timber cladding is something that’s new to Asda. On the environmental side of things we have cut down on waste and muck away – everything that’s been on site has been reused on site. The old concrete slabs from the old car park were crushed to form the foundations. “This is a big project for RG Group, both in terms of size and monetary value. We have done some projects of bigger value for other clients but this is one of the biggest we’ve done for Asda. For the community, the store will bring around 500 new jobs to the area.” The new Asda store in Ferring opens on 5th November 2012.

Walter Watson Ltd Walter Watson Ltd is the largest family owned structural steel fabricators in Northern Ireland. The company has the ability to provide a high quality service to a wide portfolio of clients

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throughout Ireland and mainland UK. Established in 1967, Walter Watson also manufactures agricultural equipment overhead cranes. Their reputation for a quality product, flexible approach, and the backup of trained service engineers has led to hundreds of satisfied customers. Walter Watson Ltd fabricated, supplied and erected 425 tonne of structural steelwork, including all purlins and galvanised plant steelwork for the Asda store in Worthing

Active Pump Services Active Pump Services provide a fast, reliable service in a range of specialism’s such as the supply, installation and servicing of sewage pumps, sewage treatment plants, cold water booster pumps and borehole pumps .They also empty septic tanks and cesspits and provide a rapid response emergency breakdown service. The business has been trading for 16 years, with a total of 45 years experience in the pump industry. Nigel Smart, Director of Active Pump Services said: “We’ve installed sewage treatment plants for domestic and commercial properties, and similarly with pump stations. We work anywhere, for example we carry out projects for managing agents in London on cold water booster pumps for large blocks of flats or similar sites.” “On the Asda store in Ferring we used our tanker division for regular waste removal on the temporary toilet block. When the project first began, they had offices and toilet blocks for the

workers but nothing was connected to main sewers. We’ve been working there on a weekly basis to empty the toilet facilities. “We’ve got 45 years experience within the company and a wealth of experience in what we do. We offer a 24/7 rapid response time for emergency breakdowns and we are very conscious of the speed of response given the liquids we’re dealing with.”

Creating Castle Court A £1 million project to construct a four-storey mixed use retail and residential unit has reached completion. Castle Court, located at 346 Seaside, in Eastbourne, comprises a retail unit and nine high-quality modern flats. The retail unit is located on the ground floor of the development and will house a new branch of supermarket chain Co-Op. Meanwhile, the nine apartments will be split throughout the remaining three levels of the building, with three flats located within each floor. Prior to work taking place on the development the site was home to The Castle – a public house from which the new development derived its name. Funding for the Castle Court project was provided by Peak Developers – a residential and retail property development company that specialises in the acquisition of land for a varied selection of projects. Hilife Construction was the main contractor on the Castle Court project, whilst Cooke Associates provided all architectural services on the site. Hilife Construction Contracts Manager, Peter Screen, said: “Work began on Castle Court on 28th November 2011, we started Pilling on 3rd January 2012 and was completed in September 2012.” The new unit was built from a traditional build of brick and block from the ground to first floor with a steel frame and a Milbank wide span concrete 1st floor slab, with a 3 story timber frame and a render board finish round off the remainder of the building. The unit also includes a fibre glass roof and UPVC windows which were designed to remain in keeping with the style of the building and all of the apartments include a range of high-quality fixtures and fittings. A notable green feature of the building is the inclusion of low energy lighting which has been installed throughout the development. Throughout the final stages of the project the retail unit underwent a complete fit-out to transform it into a Co-Op ready for its grand opening at the beginning of October. Hilife Construction Site Manager, Kevin Groves, said: “We have completed this project to the best of our ability, with an excellent safety record including no accidents. “The temperamental weather which we have experienced

throughout 2012 caused a few delays and extended the programme by a few weeks, but we worked around this challenge to successfully complete the build.” Kevin added: “This building looks beautiful and we have received some great feedback from all of the neighbours around the site. The building has a brilliant white render, with a fantastic curved window which makes it look very striking. “Peak Developers are very happy with the work that we have undertaken and this is certainly one of the best looking projects that I’ve been involved with during my career. “Two of the apartments have already been sold and with another five close to being sold this is already shaping up to being a successful build.”

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Restoring the Cutty Sark A £50 million project to conserve and restore the historic Cutty Sark has been completed. Work finished in April 2012 following a complex series of works to restore the vessel back to its former glory. As part of the project a number of new visitor facilities were also installed around the museum ship to highlight the historic significance of the vessel. Alongside the restoration of the Cutty Sark a number of additional projects, including the redevelopment of Cutty Sark Gardens, also took place. Located within Greenwich in South East London, the Cutty Sark is the world’s last surviving tea clipper and is one of just three vessels in London to be listed in the Core Collection of the National Historic Ships Register. On Wednesday 25th April, Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh officially reopened the Cutty Sark to the public during a ceremony that marked the first time since 2006 that the site had been open to visitors. Now that the vessel is open to the public, Royal Museums Greenwich will be responsible for the operational management of the site. Ellmer Construction was the main contractor, whilst Grimshaw Architects was the architect. The construction manager was Gardiner & Theobold, Buro Happold was the structural engineer and Lorne Stewart was the service engineer. Specialist Construction Managers Fraser Randall were employed to manage the delivery of the interpretative exhibition works that detail the historic story of the Cutty Sark. Fraser Randall has a long history of collaborating with the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich and some of the Museum’s figure head displays feature in the exhibition. Funding for the ship’s conservation and restoration programme was provided by many different contributors including: Greenwich Council, Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), DCMS, Greater London

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Authority, The Stavros Niarchos Foundation, Berry Brothers & Rudd, Sammy Offer Foundation, Michael Edwards and Alisher Usmanov. Chairman of Royal Museums Greenwich and the Cutty Sark Trust, Lord Sterling, said: “Cutty Sark holds a unique place in the heart of the people of Greenwich, Great Britain and indeed the rest of the world, and it is splendid that she is re-joining the London skyline once again. Cutty Sark is set in the newly-landscaped Cutty Sark Gardens, created by Greenwich Council - one of our strongest supporters. “We are indebted to those members of the public from all over the world who have generously contributed to the preservation of this much-loved national treasure. We are also deeply appreciative of the many other major institutions, government bodies and foundations that have played a key role in providing the funds. In particular our deep thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund, who have supported the project and stood by the Cutty Sark through difficult times and allocated £25 million of public money raised through the National Lottery.” Lord Sterling added: “Cutty Sark’s re-launch comes in an exceptional year for Greenwich, which was granted the status of Royal Borough in February 2012 and will have the eyes of the world upon it during The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic Games this summer. “On 25th June 1957 Her Majesty opened the Cutty Sark to the public the first time and we were delighted that The Queen and HRH Duke of Edinburgh – who has been President of the Cutty Sark Trust since 1951 – returned to reopen the ship.” Work began on the restoration of the Cutty Sark in November 2006 with the dismantlement of the ship. Unfortunately this initial phase of works was interrupted in 2007 by a fire, which caused damage to the ship and delayed the programme by six months.

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A recovery operation then took place before the project was restarted in 2008. As a result of the fire a number of structural problems were uncovered that had not been encountered during the initial stages of work. This led to contractors having to devise new ways to strengthen the structure of the ship in order to move forward with the project. This period also allowed for a few alterations to other areas of the project. Cutty Sark Trust Director, Richard Doughty, said: “It was recognised in the 1990s that the ship’s structure was very fragile and that it was likely to become a dangerous site in a matter of years. That’s what propelled the structural refurbishment work, however the fire made us aware of additional problems that didn’t present themselves in the initial surveys. “Although the fire did cause us a number of delays, the recovery period presented us with time to rethink the more detailed areas of the project and redefine our vision. As part of this rethink, we changed the design of the glass canopy on the ship, altered the basement area and increased the size of the access tower.” The next phase of the project involved raising the ship 11 feet off the ground to address issues with the weight of the vessel. As the bulk weight of the ship bears down on the lower sections of the vessel, the weight needed to be transferred to the ground in order to create a more even distribution. Twelve support beams were installed into the lower hold of the Cutty Sark to help with the reconfiguration of weight and then a new structure was installed below the ship. Located underneath the ship is the Sammy Ofer Gallery, a newly created glass-covered facility that acts as a viewing area for visitors. The gallery is named after late philanthropist and international shipping magnate, Sammy Ofer KBE, and for the first time ever allows visitors to walk underneath the hull of the ship. Due to a long-standing relationship with London s shipping community,

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Sammy Ofer KBE donated £3.8 million towards the restoration of Cutty Sark. In 2008 Sammy Ofer was appointed an Honorary Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his support for maritime heritage. Fit-out works were then conducted to complete the project, including three main trade package contracts across the interpretative fit-out works. SI Electrical undertook the lighting and electrical works, whilst Workhaus was responsible for all set works and graphic elements and Integrated Circles undertook the audio visual hardware and software works. Royal Museums Greenwich Director, Kevin Fewster, added: “Cutty Sark is an iconic London landmark and a much-loved part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site. Bringing Cutty Sark into the Royal Museums Greenwich family strengthens the links between some of the key attraction of this unique World Heritage Site and helps us to explore the extraordinary maritime stories we have to tell.” Global banking company HSBC is the primary sponsor of the Cutty Sark restoration project whilst trading partners include tea and coffee specialist Twinings, leading textile manufacturer The Woolmark Company and international premium spirits company The Erdington Group. HSBC Group Chairman, Douglas Flint, said: “HSBC was founded in Asia to finance trade with the West five years before Cutty Sark first set sail in 1870. Although times have changed, we still see trade as the biggest driver of economic and business growth. So while Cutty Sark is an emblem of past glories, she is also a reminder of the opportunities and excitement that global trade represents. HSBC is delighted to have this opportunity to support the Cutty Sark.” Richard Doughty said: “The Cutty Sark Trust was set up for the conservation of the ship and the fact that we’ve completed this restoration project to real-

ise the Trust’s vision is something we’re all enormously proud of. “Everyone who has been involved on this project has come from all works of life and from all around the country. Everybody – including myself – has gone the extra mile to complete this restoration and it’s been a privilege for all of us to have played a part in giving Cutty Sark a future. “We worked down to the wire to complete this project on time for the official opening ceremony and what we’ve achieved has been fantastic. We have preserved this ship for future generations and in such a way that will ensure that we can maintain the Cutty Sark’s upkeep in the future.” Richard added: “The Cutty Sark is unique in all sorts of ways. The vessel has been in Greenwich for the last 55 years and it symbolises the importance of trade to this country. It is very unique to have a merchant ship like this still here and it indicates an important time in our history where a vessel such as this helped to create employment and prosperity in this country. “The Cutty Sark serves as a reminder that the sea was very important in transporting goods around the world and she captures that excitement and adventure of sailing across the open water. “The ship was built to have a working life of 25 years, so the fact that it is still here is quite simply amazing. The Cutty Sark represents hundreds of year’s worth of design and development which is perfectly personified in the quality of the structure. As the Cutty Sark has inspired generations before, she will continue to inspire generations to come.”

Cutty Sark Gardens Situated adjacent to the Old Royal Naval College Grounds, Cutty Sark Gardens forms an integral part of Greenwich Town Centre and is the major arrival point for visitors arriving by boat. Alongside the restoration of the museum ship, Greenwich Council

organised the redesign of the Gardens to reinvigorate and reflect the improvements being made in Greenwich. Although Cutty Sark Gardens is predominately an area of hard landscaping, an extensive planting scheme took place and a new lighting system was installed as part of the redevelopment works. The lighting scheme not only enhances the Gardens, it also accentuates the lighting scheme of the Cutty Sark. As well as the redevelopment of Cutty Sark Gardens, a number of redevelopment works also took place at Greenwich Pier and the Old Royal Naval College and the Greenwich Foot Tunnel. Cutty Sark Trust Director, Richard Doughty, said: “With all of these projects taking place within a close proximity of each other and within similar timeframes, everyone acknowledged that there would be a number of inconveniences on their project, including access to their site. “Each contractor made allowances and it was extremely satisfying for all involved parties to be able to coordinate a complex programme of works that would take into consideration everyone else’s needs.” Royal Borough of Greenwich Council Leader, Councillor Chris Roberts, said: “The Cutty Sark is an iconic symbol of our Maritime Heritage and I’m proud of the role we played in restoring and conserving the ship and the surrounding Gardens. “A significant number of local residents were employed on the project and hundreds of local school children enjoyed welcoming The Queen and HRH Duke of Edinburgh when they visited Greenwich for the first time since bestowing Royal status upon us. “Whilst it was a day to remember for everyone involved, the ship will provide a lasting memory for the 18 million people who visit Royal Greenwich each year and view the borough’s most iconic gateway.” ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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Bishops Park is set to blossom Bishops Park was officially opened by Sir John Hutton, chairman of the London County Council (LCC), in 1893. In October 2011, the implementation phase of an exciting project to restore the park and the grounds of the adjacent Fulham Palace commenced. This followed a successful application by Hammersmith and Fulham Council to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and the Big Lottery Fund (BLF) as part of the ‘Parks for People’ initiative. Main contractor Vinci Construction has overseen the successful restoration of both Bishops Park and Fulham Palace Grounds. The Park restoration included improvements to what is known as the central core and new children’s playgrounds, which have already reopened to the public. An interactive waterplay feature, beach and restored lake and bridge also reopened in early May 2012, followed by the restored cafe and new community buildings. Drew Bennellick, Head of Landscape & Natural Heritage for HLF, said: “The Heritage Lottery Fund and the Big Lottery Fund have invested over £600 million in public parks since 1994. Over the next three years, we will invest another £30 million each year in around twenty park projects across the UK. “Britain is unique in having an amazing legacy of public parks and we are keen to protect this legacy. Many of the parks are Victorian and as a result of the competitive tendering and best value initiatives of the 1970s and 1980s have been left in appalling condition. Luckily in the late 1980s there was a realisation that parks are important for the community and quality of life, and this is a message that we are keen to promote.” The multi-million pound project has been funded by a joint investment between HLF and BLF, along with funding from Hammersmith & Fulham Council. An important aspect of the project was community involvement, as lead landscape architect Mark Holland from Chris Blandford Associates explained: “Public consultation has been central to every stage of the project. To date this has included events at the park along with regular meetings, newsletters, questionnaires and surveys. During the scheme’s implementation, neighbouring residents have been informed of the works taking place at each stage and have therefore been kept in the loop throughout the project. “We also maintained a good relationship with the conservation officer and with English Heritage in order to insure that we maintained their confidence in the work as it progressed. “Given the sensitivity of the sites and in particular the listed status of the buildings and Scheduled Monument status of the Palace, the client, contractor and design team has sought to establish a good working relationship with the conservation officer and with English Heritage in order to ensure that their confidence was maintained as the work progressed. “This has been a complex project given the nature of scheme, in which we are dealing with an important historic site. We are also working in a park that is open to the public and have therefore had to manage public access whilst working on a live site. “As a result, it was essential that the contractor was experienced in this type of work and that he had both safe methods of working and an effective communication strategy in place – and I believe VINCI Construction managed to rise to this challenge. “The restoration of Bishops Park and Fulham Palace has been a very rewarding project for us.” For the project, Ramboll’s archaeological consultants were commissioned to develop the cultural heritage and archaeol-

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ogy elements, including the design and implementation of the archaeological mitigation strategy based on assessment of heritage, constraints, risks and opportunities. Their role in the project included: preparing archaeological and built heritage appraisals, impact assessments, mitigation strategies and applications for listed building consent applications. During the implementation stage, Rambolls were responsible for overseeing the archaeological fieldwork and ongoing consultation with English Heritage and stakeholders. Drew Bennellick commented: “It is important to note that projects such as these represent a considerable investment in the construction industry – particularly the landscape construction industry. “Investing in parks helps to create jobs, provide new free facilities for people to enjoy and improve people’s quality of life. Most crucially, they help to ensure our parks remain in good heart for future generations to enjoy.”

Pre-Construct Archaeology Pre-Construct Archaeology are specialist archaeological and historic building recording contractors and have worked on some of the most important and prestigious heritage projects in the UK, including the 2012 Olympic Park. The company was very pleased to have been selected for works undertaken as part of a £8 million improvement programme to Fulham Palace – an Ancient

Monument located at Bishop’s Park – which was funded by Hammersmith & Fulham Council with a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. PCA worked closely with archaeological consultant Phil Emery who led the project on behalf of the Council. Amongst the notable results of the investigations were part of lintel of a Tudor-style door perhaps dating to the 16th century and the excavation of nearly 100 meters of the 14th century moat that encircled the Palace and its grounds. The archaeological work generated considerable interest with H&F cabinet member Greg Smith commenting: “We have been watching the archaeological work with huge interest and it is thrilling to uncover one of the hidden treasures of the borough.” The works also generated interest in the media and featured on the BBC News – http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-12602103 - and the results of the archaeological works were displayed at a recent successful public Open Day. As ever, such a project involves a number of specialist companies and PCA were especially pleased to be part of the project management team under the overall leadership of Vinci Construction IK Ltd. In their first newsletter [http://www.friendsofbishopspark.com/ newsletters.html ~ see Issue No. 1, November 2010] Vinci set out the role of PCA in the project. PCA congratulate Vinci on their well-deserved Considerate Contractors award and look forward to working with them on other projects.

Leading Lights of London Ltd Leading Lights of London Ltd are specialists in the restoration of

stained glass and leaded light windows for projects in and around London. The company also provide bespoke designs for many of their clients. Previous restoration projects include St Mary-onPaddington Green, St John the Baptist Church, N8 and St. Pauls in both Ealing and Furzedown. On the Bishops Park restoration project, Leading Lights of London Ltd restored and made new box quarry leaded light windows in the Gothic Lodge. The company also supplied and fitted clear restoration glass to the stables along with various specialist glazing works to buildings in the park. Leading Lights of London Ltd, Director Jonathan Hunt, said: “At Leading Lights of London Ltd, we aim to source glass to the client’s specifications and we use antique glass wherever possible. As this is not always available we use traditionally made crown glass or restoration glass. All materials are checked and agreed by our clients before starting works.”

SureSet UK Ltd SureSet UK Ltd supply and install permeable resin bound paving solutions for use in commercial and domestic projects across the UK. The company has a team of approved installers and has been in operation for over 15 years. On the Bishops Park project, SureSet UK Ltd resurfaced pathways using resin bound natural cast materials. SureSet UK Ltd Marketing coordinator, Yvonne Philp, said: “At SureSet UK Ltd we provide our customers with high-quality, environmentally friendly, surfacing. “Our product has been developed to offer customers a permeable solution to meet their paving requirements and we offer a 15 year guarantee – one of the longest guarantees for this type of product on the market.” ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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Tottenham Court Road transforms Tottenham Court Road Tube station is currently undergoing an extensive redevelopment programme that will dramatically reduce congestion and provide vital links to Crossrail services. The £500 million redevelopment of the Tube station will create a huge amount of new underground space, with stunning new entrances, step-free access to all platforms and a direct interchange with Crossrail services when they arrive at the station in 2018. When Tottenham Court Road station was built over a century ago, it was not designed to cope with the 147,000 people that currently use it every day. As one of the most important stations in the heart of London, the station serves the Central and Northern lines that bisect the city. To combat increasing levels of congestion, an intensive upgrade programme is now underway. Preparation work began back in 2007, when a three-year programme of utility diversions, strengthening and replacement commenced. This work effectively created the space below Charing Cross Road for the new ticket hall to be constructed and culminated in the strengthening of old cast iron trunk utilities below Oxford Street to protect them from the potential effects of settlement. The main works contract to build the station got underway at the start of 2010. London Underground appointed a joint venture of Taylor Woodrow BAM Nuttall (TWBN) to deliver the works over a seven-year construction programme. London Underground Programme Manager, Les Hamilton, said: “Anyone who has visited the area recently will recognise that

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construction of the station is a huge logistical challenge. “Our site is surrounded on all sides by busy streets, offices, shops and homes, not to mention a Grade II* listed church. “Space on site is at a premium so co-ordinating the works efficiently is hugely important – our contractor simply has to make the most of every inch of space.” The site includes the northern end of Charing Cross Road which now diverts around Centre Point. Multiple works have been carried out simultaneously including the construction of the new ticket hall, an entrance from Oxford Street, a new emergency escape shaft, new tunnels to the Central and Northern line and a deep shaft that will link the new ticket hall with Crossrail below Goslett Yard. Taylor Woodrow BAM Nuttall’s Project Director, Jez Haskins, said: “London Underground’s new ticket hall is a huge double basement excavated within a secant piled box. “The new ticket hall will be nearly six times bigger than the existing station which will ease congestion once it’s built, but for now the challenge is civil engineering – during 2012 we will excavate around 30,000 cubic metres and pour around 20,000 cubic metres of concrete. “The engineering challenges posed by the project could hardly be greater. The design required the Northern line platform tunnels to be reshaped during an 8 month platform closure in 2011.We had to create space between the tunnels to install new lifts and staircases to platform level.” Jez Haskins added:

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Lo n d o n & S o u th E a s t “Over the 8 months our tunnel gangs removed around 800 tonnes of old cast iron segments and installed around 1000 tonnes of new steel props. This was all done in the narrow worksite down the length of the platforms in very difficult conditions. “All materials and plant were lowered down to platform via a 4.5 metre diameter shaft that will ultimately be fitted out for passengers to access services step-free – and vitally for London Underground we handed back on time as planned.” While the majority of the Tottenham Court Road improvement scheme focuses on providing better facilities for passengers, external areas will also be transformed as part of the project. London Underground’s project team, including architects Gillespies, have been working with Camden and Westminster councils to develop a brand new urban environment. This centres on a large new piazza which includes glass station entrances at the foot of Centre Point. Reinstating the urban realm in this way will help improve pedestrian routes to Soho, Covent Garden, Fitzrovia, Bloomsbury and of course, Europe’s busiest shopping street – Oxford Street. Capital Programmes Director, David Waboso, said: “The upgrade of Tottenham Court Road station is underway. The station is currently operating with heavy congestion, which is why it is essential to upgrade the station. The new ticket hall will be 6 times that of the current ticket hall and the station will also have step-free access along with new lifts. “While the entire Crossrail project will be the biggest construction project in Europe, no-one should underestimate the scale and extent of the work that will take place at Tottenham Court Road. This will be one of the biggest station redevelopment projects ever undertaken in central London. “By 2018, Tottenham Court Road station will be one of the most important stations in the West End, serving both London Underground and Crossrail. The expanded tube station will be integrated with the new Crossrail station to form a major interchange.”

Ardent Services Ltd Formed in 1998 Ardent Services Ltd specialise in fire protection and specialist builders work services for rail and infrastructure sectors. Ardent Services Ltd is UKAS 3rd party accredited by FIRAS alongside their PROMAT licensee and Approved Installer status for Fire Protection. The company are also LINKUP Audited annually for Builders Work activities. Ardent Services Ltd’s Fire Protection expertise include diaphragm and tunnel walls, hoardings, ceilings & partitions, duct work, glazing, steelwork protection & Durasteel systems. The company also have in-house trades to carry out minor builders’ packages that invariably arise as part of their works. With an extensive background in construction projects for rail services Ardent Services Ltd has completed over 150 rail projects including Blackfriars and Kings Cross for Network Rail and Elephant & Castle and Warren Street for London Underground. Projects range from 100k to 2m. On the Tottenham Court Road project Ardent Services have been involved during the early stages of the project engaging with the engineers through the design process to the construction phase sub-contracted with Vinci BAM. Ardent are currently also substantively deployed at Blackfriars and Farringdon Phase One. Ardent Services Ltd Operations Director, Jonathan Davey, said: “When working on rail infrastructure projects health and safety is of paramount importance and we are committed to meeting all of the requirements. Our clients’ commitment to the Fair Payment Charter ensures we have the capital to invest in health and safety from the start of these demanding and complex projects. “We are working with our suppliers to ensure the creation of local jobs and adherence to the principles of the Cross Rail Skills pledge and CBH scheme. “At Ardent Services our ethos is quite simply in our company name.”

A disused college becomes Oak Hall Care Home The former Wispers School on the northern edge of Haslemere in Surrey is being refurbished and redeveloped into a care home and independent living accommodation. The project lead by RMH (Wispers) Care LLP comprises the extension and alteration of existing buildings and erection of replacement buildings with associated car parking. The main building on the site was Oak Hall, a substantial building constructed in 1910. There was also various extensions and other school buildings to be dealt with on the project, including a large gym building, modern extensions to the north east of Oak Hall, a large detached single storey building, two large prefab-

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ricated classrooms and various sheds and outbuildings around the main Hall. Also on the site was Willow House, a detached two-storey building which formerly comprised the sixth form block and a small bungalow. Land around the site includes Weydown Common, which is owned by National Trust. RMH (Wispers) Care LLP acquired the property in 2008, achieved planning consent in 2010 and began construction in May 2011. The project was completed in September 2012 and in October 2012, the first residents moved in.

The proposal involved a variety of construction projects within it. They included the refurbishment of Oak Hall, a three-storey extension to the Hall to provide communal facilities for the care community, and new-build supported living units. There has been a total of 112 independent living and close care units created within the existing building and additional buildings, consisting of single and double-bedroom accommodation. The main contractor was Galliford Try and their architect was Accord Architects, from Guildford. The interior designer was Etre, from Winchester. The total development cost was approximately £20 million. Drew Wrintmore from RMH (Wispers) Care LLP said: “The original buildings were an existing girl’s school. The project involved the demolition of some older buildings, the refurbishment of a Grade II listed building and further new builds to create a retirement village with 58 independent living units, a 54 bedroom care home and a country club. “We had to keep within the strict requirements of a listed building but that brought an interesting aspect to the project. “The bulk of the new build construction is timber framed, while the cladding and care home extension are a mixture of glazing and brick facade. The other buildings are a mixture of cedar cladding, render and brick.” The project was a joint venture between RMH (Wispers) Care LLP, Nicolas Roach – owner of Harbour Hotels Group – and Marcol Ltd – a large London based property company. In addition to the main building works there have been other site improvements, such as the creation of a car park, cycle storage, electric buggy parking and bin store. There has also been some landscaping including additional tree planting and the creation of a wildlife pond. Drew added: “Recently we have finished the new Radisson hotel in Guilford which is a £75 million development. This is the second of the care villages in our group, the first of which was in Torquay, so we have been able to build on that experience for this project. “The vision has always been that it would have a very high qual-

ity of finishes throughout. It was a redundant old school and a real mixture of old buildings – like a lot of old college campuses they don’t have a master plan design but they add buildings as they get funding so its effectively a smorgasbord of varying materials and design merit. “We’ve been able to co-ordinate a scheme that benefits the care community and the retirement community, which we’re really pleased about.”

MTE (Leicester) Ltd Established in 1994, MTE (Leicester) Ltd are timber framed structure specialists who use farmed wood from renewable resources. They can supply any type of timber framed system to any specification. Offering a professional, friendly and reliable service they help clients build longer lasting environmentally friendly homes and structures that are quicker to construct, cost less to maintain and are kinder to the planet. Kirk Eversfield from MTE (Leicester) Ltd said: “As well as working for Galliford Try on this project we’ve worked on many other projects. We work with the leading national builders and developers nationwide including companies like Leadbitter, Denne Construction, ISG and Jarvis. We work with a lot of major developers as well as small and medium sized businesses- right down to individual private clients who want a one-off design. “On Oak Hall Care Home we had a £1 million contract with Galliford Try to design, manufacture and erect the timber frame super structure. All components including wall panels and floor and roof cassettes were manufactured off site at our Leicester HQ, delivered and then erected on site within the program timescales given. “It was one of our first significant sized projects with Galliford Try. There were three different types of buildings so it was quite challenging in terms of design, engineering and technicality. We viewed it as flagship project by virtue of the size of the build.” ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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Completing Hanwell Locks A brand new luxury housing development in Hanwell is complete. The finishing touches were made to the second phase of the Hanwell Locks project in May 2012 with work carried out on behalf of property developer Frendcastle. The £ 3 million Hanwell Locks project comprised the construction of twelve private houses on the site of a former factory. Phase One – 6 Saddleback Lane – comprised the construction of six 3-bedroom houses and was completed at the end of 2011. All of the houses are now occupied by new owners. Phase Two of the project – 6 Jessop Place – saw the construction of six 4-bedroom houses. Hanwell Locks is located in the midst of West London and is just a short walk away from Hanwell Flight of Locks and Hanwell town centre. The site is surrounded by Elthorne Park and the National Trust’s Osterley Park and offers direct access to M4 motorway links, along with a number of railway stations. Work began on the project in March 2011, with Andrew TownsWadey (Builders) Ltd as the main contractor and Edward Hill of Hill Mitchell Berry Architects as the Architect. R & G Electrical Contractors Ltd was the electrical contractor on the scheme and was responsible for installing lighting and telecommunications for all of the units on the site. A number of external landscaping works were also carried out at the development including the construction of pathways to improve access to the nearby Grand Union Canal. Andrew Towns-Wadey (Builders) Ltd Project Manager, Gary Matterface, said: “We take pride in our work and it’s great to see a project like this complete. The work we’ve conducted here has really transformed the site.” Frendcastle Developer, Bill Bailey, added: “We are delighted to have worked with Andrew Towns Wadey Builders and the professional team, with whom we have done many projects in the past. The project went well, everything was approached with a positive attitude and the attention to detail was superb. “The development demonstrates that high quality new build family houses with generous room sizes and a good specification continue to sell well.” The six units at Jessop Place have all been constructed around a private courtyard. All of the houses have been built using a timber frame with a brick clad external facade and each unit includes double glazed aluminium windows and roofs decked out in natural Spanish slate. Each unit includes a number of stunning features, such as en-suite bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows and grand master bedrooms. On the ground floor of each property, the entrance hall includes a cloakroom and under stair cupboard, whilst the living room features oak wood floors. The kitchens have been custom designed with quartz worktops, stainless steel and chrome fittings, whilst floors are finished with heated porcelain tiles. Brand new appliances have also been installed and these include a gas hob, an integrated multifunction oven, a dishwasher and a combination washer dryer. On the first floor, new owners are treated to two double bedrooms and a large bathroom with a bath and high-pressure wall mounted shower and a storage area. The bathrooms also include built-in medicine cabinets and colour backed glass splashbacks, whilst bedrooms include LED lit bed bulkheads and built-in wardrobes. The second floor of each unit also includes another two bedrooms and an additional bathroom. Both the first and second floors are carpeted throughout. Additional features include: TV/FM and cable points, virgin cable TV and radio services, wiring for broadband connections, mood dimmer switches and under cabinet lighting. Bi-fold doors open out onto timber-decked external areas, which also include

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a lawn and shed. An additional landscaped communal garden with a play area is also included on the site. Security features include intruder alarms with room sensors, panic alarm buttons with internal and external sounders, and high-security door locks. Gas fired boilers provide the units with heating and were installed by PGS Plumbing & Heating Ltd. The company was involved with all of the plumbing and heating on the site, which included underfloor heating on the ground floors of each unit. Wall mounted slim panel radiators also provide the upper floors with heating and heated towel rails were installed in the bathrooms. PGS Plumbing & Heating Ltd Managing Director, Peter Howes, said:

“Work ran very smoothly on the project and one of the benefits of working on a project like this was the fact that they were all quite similar in design. Once work on one house was complete, we knew what we need to do for the next one – which made each unit easier to complete. For my team, we were able to just flow through the work with ease and it really helped to bring this project in on time and to schedule.” R & G Electrical Contractors Ltd Managing Director, Mark

Richards, said: “Working on a project like Hanwell Locks was very important to us as it has allowed us to demonstrate our expertise in electrical installations.” All of the dwellings on the scheme were built to achieve Code 4 Sustainable Homes and sustainable resources were used on both phases of the project where possible.

Preserving the heritage at Grove Farm A £1.4 million project to create a new heritage centre in Cookham, Berkshire is currently underway. The Grove Farm Heritage Centre project is being implemented by John Lewis and comprises the construction and refurbishment of three buildings at Grove Farm, to form a heritage centre. The two new buildings on the site – the archive centre and the pattern-view building will house a large collection of memorabilia and a variety of carpets and fabrics. Meanwhile an existing derelict pottery building – which made items for John Lewis during World War II – will be refurbished in order to house a permanent pottery collection. Once work is complete on the site it is hoped that the pottery building will also provide the perfect space for craft workshops and activities. Work on the new heritage centre is currently scheduled to reach completion in early 2013, ahead of two important dates for John Lewis – the 100th anniversary of the John Lewis Partnership and the 150th anniversary of the first John Lewis store in London. Conamar Ltd is the main contractor on the project, whilst Catherine Bailie of FSP Architects is responsible for all architectural services on the site. Work began on the project in June 2012 and is being implemented to modernise the facilities whilst at the same time ensure that new builds blend in with the existing structures. Aspects of the project include the installation of new cladding, new windows and new lighting and the implementation of a new flood defence system. Bespoke furniture designer, Furniture By Martin is responsible for some of the architectural joinery works on the Grove Farm Heritage Centre project as well as the installation of internal furniture, including bespoke reception desks, staircases and internal oak shutters. The company is also responsible for installing the external cladding on the site, which incorporates a very distinctive paisley design pattern. Furniture By Martin Managing Director, Martin Haswell, said: “This project is very important for us and is very much in keeping with the type of work that we conduct on a regular basis. It

is great to be involved with a brand like John Lewis and this project allows us to cover a broad spectrum of works on one site.” On the Grove Farm Heritage Centre project architectural stonework specialists E A Building Services (Oxford) Ltd is responsible for the brick and block work on the archive centre, in addition to completing some repair work to existing walls. E A Building Services (Oxford) Ltd Managing Director, Marc Adams, commented: “We specialise in renovation work and often complete works on a similar projects. The Grove Farm Heritage Centre project is a high profile site and is exactly the type of project that we excel in.” Whilst work takes place at Grove Farm, main contractor Conamar Ltd is making all efforts to ensure that local residents are informed of the ongoing works. Conamar Ltd Site Manger, Tony Litchfield, said: “Conamar Ltd is part of the national Considerate Contractors Scheme, so we are liaising with local residents to keep them informed of the projects progress, we are keeping noise pollution to a minimum and are mindful of dust pollution. “We are also being careful to retain as many of the site’s existing features as possible. “Conamar Ltd completes work on a variety of projects, from one-off new build projects, to refurbishments and shop-fitting schemes for many leading retailers. We have worked with John Lewis on projects for over 20 years so they are a very important client for us. “In terms of our work for John Lewis, this project is something completely new for us. Within the three buildings there’s an existing building, a concrete frame structure and a timbre building, so there is pretty much every aspect of construction taking place on this development. “Grove Farm Heritage Centre is a very enjoyable project to be involved with.” The Grove Farm Heritage Centre project is currently on programme and is scheduled to reach completion in February 2013.

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Upgrading Hamilton Bus Station A £5.5 million project to upgrade services at Hamilton Bus Station, Strathclyde is continuing to make great progress. Construction work on Phase One of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport’s (SPT) upgrade work is now complete and is currently open to the public. Once work is completed on Phase Two the station will deliver a number of modern passenger facilities along with an improved interchange for rail station and taxi services. The work on Hamilton Bus Station is being phased in order to reduce disruption to both the bus services and the general operation of the station. An additional improvement on Hamilton Bus Station will include the installation of covered walkways which will link the state-ofthe-art station building to 17 local bus and coach access points. All waiting areas will also be enclosed and will include automatic doors and information screens providing passengers with important departure and arrival times. SPT Vice Chairman, Councillor Denis McKenna, said: “Over three million passengers use this bus station, making it a vital transport hub for the area. The significant investment by SPT is in no small part down to the tireless work of local councillors in the area. “The project has been a collaborative approach between SPT and South Lanarkshire Council and we’re delighted to be working with them to deliver a fantastic transport legacy for Hamilton, Lanarkshire and the wider Strathclyde area. Passengers will certainly notice a big difference when the new facility is complete.” The upgrade of Hamilton Bus Station is a joint venture between SPT and South Lanarkshire Council. SPT has provided £5 million of funding for the project, whilst the remaining £500,000 was provided by South Lanarkshire Council. Chair of South Lanarkshire Council’s Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Chris Thompson, said: “People expect a certain standard of comfort and information when using major bus stations and this upgrade will certainly provide that. “We are delighted to be working in partnership with SPT on such a major project that will benefit so many people throughout South Lanarkshire and beyond.” Whilst work is taking place at Hamilton Bus Station, temporary bus stances have been provided for customers. The temporary provisions have been put in place along Brandon Street, to the west of the existing station, whilst coaches will be redirected to an old MFI car park located nearby. Bowmer and Kirkland is the main contractor on the Hamilton Bus Station project, whilst Austin-Smith: Lord is the architect. To date, Bowmer and Kirkland has completed approximately

70% of the project, which includes the new Travel Centre building, a coach stance waiting area and the enclosed bus stance area. Work is now taking place on the main site entrance and the remainder of the enclosed bus stances. SystemGlaze conducted work on the external facade of Hamilton Bus Station, which included installing the glazing, the curtain walling and automatic doors. In addition, SystemGlaze’s sister company BSW, worked on all of the shelters and waiting structures located outside of the station. SystemGlaze Commercial Director, Adam Elford, said: “We were involved on the upgrade works at Hamilton Bus Station for approximately three months. Although for us this is a reasonably small job in comparison to some of our other operations, it has been fantastic to be a part of this project. “Two of our companies – SystemGlaze and BSW – have been involved and this is has made the work very important to us as a group. Once work is complete this station will be very beneficial to local residents.” The upgrade works on Hamilton Bus Station are due to be completed in winter 2012.

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Cambeltown New Quay helps the renewable energy industry Work has started on the £4.6 million New Quay in Campbeltown. The contract is being carried out on behalf of Argyll and Bute Council and is part of the Kintyre Renewables Hub project which will see Campbeltown and Machrihanish develop as a centre for the renewable energy industry in Scotland. The area already has strong links with the renewable energy sector and the works will assist in creating a national “hub” for the renewable energy industry. The project will create significant employment opportunities and will promote sustainable economic development at the local, Argyll and Bute and Scottish levels. The project began in February 2012 and is due to be completed in October 2012. The contract is being carried out by BAM Nuttall Limited. South Kintyre Councillor Rory Colville said: “I’m delighted to see this work getting underway. It will make a real difference to Campbeltown. I’m confident it will encourage more business to the area. This project is just one of a number in development which will soon reach implementation stage.

“Elsewhere in Campbeltown work has already begun on the construction of 32 new flats and terraced homes at the Kinloch Road regeneration site. It’s expected this will be finished in early 2013. A tender is also out for the construction of passing places between the Machrihanish junction and Campbeltown also in connection with the Kintyre Renewables Hub.” The work involves putting new piles along the length of the New Quay on the inner harbour side, constructing a new concrete ground slab over the Quay, dredging the adjacent sea bed and widening the road at the Old Quay head by reclaiming a small part of the inner harbour. This will make it easier to transport wind turbine components and other freight. Allan Finlay, Technical Officer at Argyll and Bute Council said: “In essence the works are designed to help future proof the port of Campbeltown for

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changes in both vessels and equipment, particularly for the renewables sector. Whilst the improvements are not necessarily visible there will be enhanced capacity for deeper draughted ships and the quayside is specifically designed to accommodate crane loads up to 1000t. With the prospect of major renewable projects in the waters off the west coast of Argyll, these improvements will place the port of Campbeltown in a strong position to help service the proposed schemes.”

Raasay House: Rising from the ashes A £3.7 million project to restore a former stately home ravaged by fire is nearing completion. Located on the Isle of Raasay, the 18th Century Raasay House is currently undergoing an extensive programme of works to restore and upgrade facilities. The project is the second restoration scheme to take place on the site, following a previous programme of restoration works which took place between 2007 and 2009. Raasay House owners Raasay Community Company is implementing the works, working alongside the Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) – the Scottish Government’s economic and community development agency. Work began on the project in September 2010. Once the restoration is complete Raasay House will be rented to Raasay Outdoor Centre, and all of the income that is raised from the rent will be re-invested in subsequent work around the site. Mansell is the main contractor on the Raasay House Restoration project. HIE Skye and Wester Ross Area Director, Robert Muir, said: “The restoration of Raasay House will provide a welcome focus for the economic and social life of the island and play a pivotal role in the long term future of the island. “Community ownership of the house and associated land to-

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gether with the other developments – new village hall, harbour, school extension, new play park, affordable housing, better medical facilities – will position Raasay for a fantastic future.” Chairman of Raasay House Community Company, David

Westgarth, added: “Raasay House will look externally the same as it always has, but will be a modern efficient building inside; a landmark for the Highlands and the economic driver for a fragile community. “The rebuilt house will be fully insulated, sound proofed, have double glazed windows throughout, the majority of the bedrooms will have en-suite facilities, and there will be an internal fire escape stairway. “The public rooms will be fully restored to as near original as possible.” Raasay House is over 250 years old and once belonged to the Clan Macleod. When the site began to operate as an activity centre in 1984 a great deal of the property was derelict so a series of restoration works took place in 2007 to improve facilities. The original programme of works was scheduled to run from 2007 for two years, however in January 2009 – days before work was due to be completed – a fire broke out at the site and devastated most of the building. The fire caused a significant amount of damage, leaving all but the west section of the building a roofless shell. Speaking in 2009 about the tragic event, David Westgarth, said: “What has happened is absolutely tragic, particularly as the house was looking so fantastic. “We are all a bit dumbstruck at the moment, but this is not the end of things by any manner of means. “We will build a new centre. There is a huge amount of community support for the scheme and whenever you get a setback in a small community everybody gets together to overcome it.” With work on the restoration project now nearing completion, the Raasay Outdoor Centre will continue to develop the site – as originally planned prior to the fire – so that it can create full time employment opportunities for young residents on the island. Raasay Outdoor Centre Director, David Croy, said: “It’s a new beginning for us that will give us the opportunity to develop year round business in this stunningly beautiful part of

the world. Thanks to renovation of Raasay House we will be able to operate throughout the winter months and create more full time positions. “Activity holidays, adventure sports and corporate events are all markets that we are keen to grow, and we now have great potential for one-off events, where the use of the house will be a particular asset.” Chair of Highlands and Islands Enterprise, William Roe, added: “Raasay is an outstanding example of how small island communities can focus local skills and experience to achieve their ambitions through self determination and teamwork.” The Raasay House Restoration project is scheduled to reach completion in December 2012.

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Lothian Buses: Upgrading services A £7 million project to create new engineering facilities for Lothian Buses is currently underway. The Longstone Garage Engineering Facilities project is taking place at the Longstone Depot in Edinburgh and comprises the construction of new garage workshop pits, the installation of fuel and wash facilities, vosa test lanes and stores. In addition, offices, training rooms and engineering welfare facilities will also be included on the site. Work began on the site in May 2012 after planning permission for the project was granted in February 2011. The project is being implemented by Lothian Buses to bring its old 1940s depot up to current standards in order to bring the facility in line with key services. Lothian Buses is one of the most modern bus fleets in the UK and the work on the new engineering facility compliments a ten year modernisation scheme which has recently taken place across all Lothian Buses depots. Luddon Construction is the main contractor on the Longstone Garage Engineering Facilities project, whilst leading chartered surveyors Graham + Sibbald is providing all architectural services. Prior to work taking place on the project the site previously housed a car park which was used by Lothian Buses’ employees. The car park is now being relocated. Construction work on the project comprises the erection of a 50,000 sq ft single-storey main garage, with two-storey ancillary stores and a training suite. The building is being built using a steel portal frame with concrete floors and roof and insulated cladding and block walls. The site will undergo a complete internal fit-out, including mechanical and electrical works and will include staff washrooms, a shower, a canteen and locker and drying room facilities. In addition, some landscaping work will also take place on the project and will concentrate on the areas around the site’s pe-

rimeter road. A sound attenuation gabion basket wall will also be installed. The site has been designed to achieve current building regulations Section 6 and includes high efficiency lighting, heating and ventilation systems. Lothian Buses Managing Director, Ian Craig, said: “The company has been delighted to commit the substantial capital investment to upgrade Longstone Depot, which will complete a longstanding programme to improve our facilities throughout our portfolio. We have been delighted with the professional service offered by Graham + Sibbald Chartered Surveyors throughout various projects undertaken over the years.” Lothian Buses currently operates over 70 services in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas of Midlothian and East Lothian. Lothian Buses is the UK’s largest publicly owned bus operator – with The City of Edinburgh Council being a major shareholder – and has over 2000 employees, with three-quarters of its staff employed as drivers. The transport operator has a fleet of 650 vehicles and has been providing much needed transport services since January 2000. The company has recently invested in improving its buses and currently has a low-floor easy-access fleet of buses with an average age of 4.9 years. In addition, Lothian Buses has over 30 open-top buses covering its Edinburgh Bus Tours service and 14 specially branded low-floor AIRLINK vehicles for use on the dedicated Airport Express service. Lothian Buses’ Longstone Garage Engineering Facilities project is currently on programme and is scheduled to reach completion in April 2013.

Blake Group Blake Group is one of the UK’s leading multi-discipline steel fabricators and tank manufacturers working on infrastructure, regeneration and major new build construction projects for the both the public and private sectors. The firm provides bespoke steel products to projects that range from ports, airports and railways to hospitals, housing and now even the new Forth Bridge Crossing. Established in 1938 by James Blake, this fourth generation family business has gone from strength to strength to a key employer in East Scotland today. From its early beginnings as a blacksmiths located by the Port of Leith in Edinburgh, the business has evolved to an industry leader today with sites across East Central Scotland. Blake Group’s client list spans some of the biggest names in oil and gas, engineering, construction and utilities including

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Barratt, Miller Group, BAA, Rolls Royce, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, Northumbrian Water, Total and Shell. Major projects the firm has supplied to include Heathrow T5, Edinburgh and Glasgow Airports, Carlisle Rail Hub, Northumbrian Water’s tank replacement programme, Dynamic Earth, and EuroCentral. The firm was also responsible for manufacturing the UK’s highest steel bunded fuel tank at the Snowdonia Visitor Centre at the summmit of Snowdon. Blake Group’s Environmental Tank Division has been supplying Lothian Buses with all their storage tank requirements for decades. This is due to the firms expert position advising Lothian Buses on the specifications required to ensure compliance with the Oil Storage Regulations. Blake Group has been instrumental in introducing industry standards and regulations through its membership of BSI, APEA, OFTEC and the Energy Institute. As part of a major multi-million pound contract, Blake Group

is delighted to have been awarded the supply and installation of the storage tanks which included two 140,000 Litre diesel bunded tanks, additional oil tanks and an Ad Blue tank. For 75 years, Blake Group has set industry benchmarks through thought-leadership, quality craftsmanship and superior customer service. As the first company in the UK to be awarded an OFCERT Licence by OFTEC to manufacture both the EA and SEPA’s recommended oil tank the OFS T200, the Environmental Tank Division advises industry leaders on oil storage regulations and tank design. Additionally, year on year the Fabrications Division wins industry awards for service and quality, such accolades all adding to the firms specialist status leading industry with engineering excellence. Blake Group wishes Lothian Buses every success continuing to be the No 1 bus company in the UK.

Heating improved for housing tenants Falkirk Council is looking to improve the way council tenants heat their homes. In 2011, a project got underway to assess and improve the heating within social housing, in order to meet standards set by the Scottish Government. New guidance for Scottish Housing Quality Standards (SHQS) published in March 2011 included clauses on energy efficiency, whilst the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 set a statutory duty on the Scottish Government to remove fuel poverty in Scotland by November 2016. With both these pieces of legislation in place, Falkirk Council decided to improve the way thousands of homes are heated, by installing new heating systems. Falkirk Council wants to provide as much support as they can for social housing tenants, who can often be vulnerable, so it is looking at the future servicing and maintenance implications of provisions. In addition it is also arranging for in-house maintenance staff to carry out any necessary repairs. Often using gas instead of electricity can help to save energy and make homes more energy efficient however there are some homes which experience difficulty with their gas supply. As it is not always viable to have a gas system, which would make meeting energy efficiency standards easier, alternative heating methods have to be considered. In terms of efficiency, electrical systems are not always the best systems to use, so Falkirk Council has had to consider the proposed changes carefully. After much consideration on what would be the best system, the heat store system has been chosen for the project, as this method includes a hot water storage component. Heat store systems are essentially a hot water cylinder with the abilities of a boiler, so they can provide hot water and heating simultaneously. Another benefit of heat store systems is the maintenance implications. The maintenance of heat store systems are quite minimal, unlike boilers which rely on gas and electricity, and the majority of the electrical components are readily available and inexpensive. In terms of implementing this improvement programme, Falkirk Council is looking to identify properties which are currently failing the SHQS energy efficiency components. The current contract value for the project up to the end of this financial year is £6 million. After various tenders, the preferred contractor was Neat Heat. The council is working on making up future investment programmes – essentially they are trying to tie in not only the Housing Quality Standard but also to end fuel poverty. In terms of the community benefit, Falkirk Council is trying to provide the same level of controllability to the heating systems of rural communities as urban communities and also provide a reduction in fuel costs.

Neat Heat With over 25 years experience in the industry, Neat Heat is a Cumbernauld-based specialist working on the installation and repair of gas and electric heating systems and boilers. Neat Heat’s business has been built on reputation which has been achieved through their high quality, friendly and professional service and has provided many satisfied, returning customers. Neat Heat is thorough in their delivery, making them an excellent choice as preferred contractor on Falkirk Council’s Framework Agreement for Electrical Energy Efficient Heating Works. They provide fully qualified engineers and all necessary joinery, building, plumbing, electrical work and disposal of redundant equipment is part of the service.

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Social housing on Auchinairn Road The £4.8 million Auchinairn Road development north of Glasgow is almost complete. The site comprises 36 flats and ten houses all to rent as social housing. The ten houses are formed around a landscaped square and the 36 flats are arranged round a car parking courtyard with shared gardens to the rear.

The client is The Link Group, while the main contractor is McTaggart Construction and the architect is Assist Design. The project began in September 2011 and is due to be completed in November 2012. Douglas Taylor, Director of Assist Architects said: “The site was a bit of an eye-sore before. Previously it was a site compound for Taylor Wimpey who have built hundreds of houses in the area. The build has been designed to blend in with this nearby private housing with the idea being to try to match social housing to the

materials used for the adjacent private estates.” The development is being constructed using light coloured brick with white render and concrete roof tiles. The 36 flats are in two blocks which are both three storey’s high – with six flats off each stairwell – and are within two “L” shaped buildings to form a courtyard. All the flats have two bedrooms.” Douglas said: “Of the ten houses, all are semi detached. Six of them are threebedroom and two are four-bedroom. The other pair comprise a three- bedroom house which is joined to a specially designed two- bedroom wheelchair bungalow. The bungalow is bespoke with a carport, specially adapted kitchen and bathroom. “One of the other interesting features is that there is an existing reed bed which we are keeping. We are augmenting the landscape around the reed bed and have a programme to clean it out. It’s a bit of local biodiversity which we have retained and enhanced.” The Housing Association chose many of the interior features in the new buildings. The local council also has a strategy for developing a cycle way infrastructure in the area

City Chambers transformed Fife Council is refurbishing the City Chambers in Dunfermline in order to improve services and reduce costs. Alistair Hutton, Architectural Technician at Fife Council, explained the development to Premier Construction: “The project has come about because the council is going through an office rationalisation programme to try and reduce the number of properties it maintains. The City Chambers has been selected as one of the properties to be retained due to its historic nature. “We are trying to refurbish the space to make it more useable and fill it with as many people as we can while retaining the historic aspects of the building.” The £1.2 million project began in April 2012 and it is due to be complete in November 2012, after which a second phase will start to refurbish the roof and undertake various stone repairs. The main contractor was the building services division of Fife Council. Alistair said: “One of the main functions was to introduce a local office service, who act as the public facing element of the council. From the public point of view, all the main council services, for the Dunfermline area, will be centralised in this location within the high street in Dunfermline, so it should be much easier for people to access the council. “We’ve opened up quite a large area for various council departments to move into and attached around ten interview rooms which will be used by a local office and social workers to conduct their interviews/consultations. We’re also going to re-

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and the site is integral to that ambition. There is also a new play area incorporated and a new access path that will shorten the journey time for the whole community to get to the local shops. Douglas added: “The buildings are all up and are wind and weather tight, it’s really down to the finishing touches. There is mainly external landscaping to be completed which has been difficult due to the weather over the summer. “The project is a further demonstration of our ongoing relationship with Link Housing Association. We’ve been lucky enough to partner with them on a number of successful projects and are really pleased with this brilliant development.”

introduce the local councillor accommodation in the form of offices and back offices. “The final thing we’ve done was to bring in a comfort break scheme. This is a council initiative to provide publically accessible toilets in high demand areas such as high streets, and provides more disabled facilities.” The build is now in the final construction stages including floor coverings, wall finishes and few minor alterations. Previously the building had been used as an office and provided accommodation for both councillors and some council services – but it was vastly under-utilised. Alistair added: “In terms of the building fabric we have essentially

started again as far as the services go. We have done a full re-wire and re-plumb of the building. The systems were archaic and needed to be refurbished. “It also serves quite a significant civic purpose. All the committee meetings are held in the City Chambers as well as wedding ceremonies and other events. “What we’ve done is retain the main historic features, identified in the planning process. The only part of the building we’ve really had a major impact on is the main reception which has been redesigned to suit the new layouts inside. We’ve tried to incorporate some of the historic panelling features and remain true to what was there before. “We have a corporate standard that we like to achieve for the local offices and we’ve tried to incorporate that into this building in a subtle way. It doesn’t look like a modern office block when you go in – it still looks like a historic building and it’s very apparent that it is a historic building, which is what we wanted. “The project has been about trying to utilise the building as much as we can and give it value in the community again, rather than it being an empty building sitting on a high street. We are bringing a historical building back as a focal point for the community.”

Multi-million pound water project will deliver massive environmental benefits Scottish Water is carrying out an exciting project that will deliver massive environmental benefits for rivers and coastal waters in Ayrshire. The Meadowhead and Stevenston Work Package 6 (WP6) was designed to significantly improve the environment for those living in North and East Ayrshire. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has identified water quality and aesthetic failings in inland and coastal waterways within the River Irvine, Kilmarnock Water and Irvine Coastal Water. The scheme comprises several projects to construct new pipelines and pumping stations, along with the modification of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) in order to address the drivers for these waterways. These drivers include: the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive, the Bathing Water Directive, the Freshwater Fisheries Directive and the Water Framework Directive. As one of the biggest projects of its kind to have ever been undertaken in Scotland, the storm water management work will improve water quality in the River Irvine and Kilmarnock Water and the bathing waters of Irvine Bay. The scheme will also help Scottish Water meet Scottish Environment Protection Agency regulations and stringent EU directives. MBV, a joint venture between contractors Morrison Construction and Black & Veatch and their design partners Halcrow, has now completed the first phase of the project. This

£31 million phase comprised the installation of a new water network between Irvine and Meadowhead Waste Treatment Works. The Irvine-Meadowhead project will improve storm management in the Irvine and Kilmarnock areas through

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S c otl a n d collection and transfer system which will allow better control of waste water discharges and substantially reduce unsatisfactory intermittent discharges (UIDs) to the rivers and the Firth of Clyde. Covering a geographical area of approximately 125 square kilometres, the catchment consists of both urbanised and rural areas and has a population of over 300,000. The new systems in both towns will collect combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges that occur when there is too much water for the existing infrastructure to handle, usually during or after heavy rainfall. Excess flows will then be discharged into local watercourses in order to relieve pressure in the system and avoid flooding. Creating the new storm water network involved constructing approximately 12 miles of large pipelines and the creation of three new transfer pumping stations and a new storage tank south west of Kilmarnock. This has in turn provided 12,000 cubic metres of storage capacity that will prevent early spills to rivers by holding back waste water in storm conditions before it is pumped forward for disposal via an existing long sea outfall at Gailes Pumping Station in Irvine. Further works included additions to the inlet works at the Meadowhead WWTW, including a new screening chamber that provides preliminary screening to the storm water prior to discharge via the Gailes outfall. Now that the first phase of the project is complete, Morrison

Construction and Black & Veatch have secured a £17 million Scottish Water contract for the second phase.

KWH Pipe (UK) Ltd KWH Pipe specialises in the manufacture of polyethylene pipe systems for use in water, gas and waste water schemes and other similar applications. The company has produced polyethylene pipes since 1955 and in this time KWH Pipe (UK) Ltd has worked on a number of high profile projects including the Glencourse project in Edinburgh, as well as several marine pipeline projects throughout the UK. On the Meadowhead and Stevenson project, KWH Pipe (UK) Ltd supplied a 10,000m³ storage tank system in 2.6 m diameter and 300 m of associated pipework in 2.1 m nominal diameter. The pipes were manufactured in the UK by KWH Pipe’s Weholite licensee, Asset International. KWH Pipe (UK) Ltd Managing Director, George Merry, said: “KWH Pipe (UK) Ltd is a Scottish Water framework supplier, covering large diameter pipework, so working on a project like Meadowhead and Stevenson is extremely important to us. “On each project we work in partnership with Scottish Water and their appointed framework contractor to provide the best solutions to solve the problems that they have. “KWH Pipe is an innovative company and as we have been producing pipe for over 50 years we have a great deal of product knowledge.”

Community Centre taking shape in Townhead A £1.65 million project is underway to bring a new community centre to Strathclyde. The Townhead Village Hall project comprises the erection of a single-storey, multi-use building and associated landscaping. Once complete the building will measure 900 sq metres and will boast a café, a large hall, a learning centre and two nurseries, in addition to offices and changing facilities. A number of the rooms at Townhead Village Hall will also be made available for hire to local services providers. The construction of the community centre is a brand new initiative that is being implemented to improve facilities within the local community. The project has been in the pipeline since 2004, but has been the subject of discussion within the community for over 20 years. The project is being funded by the National Lottery through the BIG Lottery fund, Scottish Government Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, Glasgow Housing Association, Glasgow Community Planning Partnership, Hugh Fraser Foundation, Landfill Community Fund (LCF) and Glasgow City Council. Glasgow City Council Leader, Gordon Matheson, said: “I am very excited that this new hall will at last be built after all

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the efforts of the local community and partner organisations. “It will make a big difference to the lives of the local people and I thank everyone involved.”

Townhead Village Hall Chairwoman, Betty Dougan, added: “I have been involved in this project for many years. After all our hard work it is really good to see that this village hall is happening. I look forward to being able to walk into our new building early next year.” Work began on the project in April 2012. CCG is the main contractor on the Townhead Village Hall project, whilst Ingenium Archial is providing all architectural services. Bob Turnbull of CRGP Limited is the project manager. Prior to work taking place on the development, the land was a Brownfield site situated within a residential area of Townhead Village. The village is one of the oldest areas of Glasgow and the community centre is being implemented to provide residents with a facility that can cater for both elderly residents and young families. The new building has been constructed from a mix of masonry, timber and steel, with an aluminium roof and aluminium clad timber frame windows. The external facade of the building comprises a mix of facing brick and zinc panelling. The central café space is glazed on the north and south facades allowing the building to be open to both the main street and garden space behind. Once the centre is open to the public the café will act as the central hub of the facility and will create a social space that connects up all of the areas of the building. Ingenium Archial Architect, Simon Fisher, said: “At present construction is running on programme and the

building is almost wind and water tight. External walls are complete and the contractor is beginning to fit out internal areas. “Working on the Townhead Village Hall project has been a rewarding experience as it is a building which has been eagerly desired by the client group and will also bring benefit to the wider local community. “Witnessing the construction of the Village Hall is a great encouragement to the local community. In one way or another residents have been working to provide a facility like this for over 20 years and Ingenium Archial has been involved in the project for the last seven years. “The completed building will give residents the space that they have eagerly anticipated: a safe and pleasant place at the heart of the community for the residents of Townhead and their friends to meet and socialise.” CRGP Project Manager, Bob Turnbull, said: “The management of this project has been complicated and difficult however the various parties to the project, such as the community, grant bodies, TVH board and the design team have all contributed in a way that has engendered good team work. When this supportive environment is created it makes working on a project like this a pleasure and on completion everyone will be rewarded with a superb facility for the community in Townhead.” Townhead Village Hall is scheduled to reach completion in March 2013.

Argyll College Construction Skills Centre Lochgilphead: Phase Three Phase Three of the Argyll College Construction Skills Centre project has reached completion. The third phase of the project was implemented by Argyll College UHI Ltd, led by their Principal Mike Breslin. The project comprises the construction of a brand new workshop and associated services, creating a live teaching zone for students studying engineering services at the college. The site is gently sloping, framed by attractive woodland, with beautiful views out over Loch Fyne to Ardrishaig and provides an ideal environment to accommodate a first class training facility. Work began on the project in August 2012 and was completed in October 2012. The new structure was built from a modular steel construction with composite panels on concrete substructure. The Argyll College Design Team comprised Burnet Bell Architects, Cameron McDougall Mechanical and Electrical services engineers, and Binnie Murray & Hutton Quantity Surveyors. MacLeod Construction Limited was the main contractor on the project. Burnet Bell Managing Director, Iain Macrae, said: “Argyll College is a new concept in Colleges. It is decentralised, with a number of interlinked learning centres throughout Argyll offering a wide range of courses and training. Individually the centres are modest, however collectively they combine to create a significant College. “Lochgilphead is one of the principal towns in Argyll and presently houses one of these Learning Centres. On the outskirts of the town at Kilmory, Argyll College Construction Skills Centre – a relatively new addition to the network – has also been developed. “The need to offer apprenticeship training in mid Argyll was seen as overwhelming and led to this new enterprise. There has never been a facility like this in Lochgilphead – and as the site has developed and continued to prove successful it has continued to expand. “The workshop which was constructed during Phase Three is a hands-on, physical training area, where students can gain an understanding of what it will be like to work in a live construction environment. Phase Three is also supported by classrooms,

workshops and covered working areas which were built during the first two phases of the project.” Iain added: “This was an extremely challenging project and we are extremely proud of our involvement with Argyll College. The construction of this facility also means a great deal to the local people of Mid Argyll as it provides apprenticeship training in the construction industry without having to move away from home. “With work now complete on Phase Three of the project, planning permission is currently in place for the fourth phase of the development which will involve extending the classroom wing constructed during Phase One. This final phase has been designed to provide a best practice exemplar of different forms of construction technology and sustainability.”

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Ochil House fit-out A £4.3 million turnkey project to fit-out 87,000 sq ft Ochil House near Glasgow is nearing completion. Located in Hamilton International Park, Ochil House is the largest office development on the site, and shares a home with similar offices for companies including HSBC, First Direct, T Mobile, S&UN, First Engineering and ICM. ScottishPower currently occupy the adjacent 4-storey New Aspect House at Hamilton International Park and the move to Ochil House is of strategic importance to create a campus for ScottishPower’s business requirements. The Ochil House project is being implemented by Scottish Power and its new owner Iberdrola, a Spanish multinational utility company. The project is scheduled to reach completion in November 2012 and once work is complete Ochil House will allow ScottishPower to consolidate a number of its existing facilities. Ochil House is a four-storey building accessed by a central stairwell and has two, 13-person passenger lifts. Also, there is a rear stairwell with one passenger lift and toilets. The facility boasts suspended ceilings, raised access floors with recessed modern lighting, VRV comfort cooling, broadband access and DDA compliant toilets on each floor. The development also includes car parking facilities. Work began on the design and build contract in June 2012 with Manchester-based contractor Overbury Plc awarded as main contractor. Cooper Cromer is providing all architectural services, with Wallace Whittle responsible for the mechanical and electrical works and BREEAM. Structural works and acoustic services were also required. Internal work on the development includes the construction of new partitions to create individual office and rooms, along with the introduction of new facilities including showers and approximately 900 fully-equipped work stations. As well as the internal fit-out of the building, external work on the site includes the creation of footpaths, CCTV and access control, as well as a number of provisions for cyclists, such as covered cycle parking. To date the building has achieved a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’. Cooper Cromer Senior Architect, Graeme Greenock, said: “The facility is mostly for back office staff and the objective is to deliver a modern open plan office environment, along with ancillary meeting rooms, private offices, break out areas, a reception area, and a deli bar. The layouts of each floor reflects ScottishPower’s business and operational needs and also satisfies ScottishPower and Iberdrola’s design guidelines and brand requirements. “As toilet facilities, a lift core and stairs already existed in the building we are fitting out the office shell with new partitions, which combine a mix of traditional drywall plasterboard parti-

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tion systems as well as purpose-built Spanish demountable glazed and solid partitions. “With ScottishPower now part of Iberdrola, so it is very important that the Iberdrola brand is followed through in the design and detail for this new facility. This is the first major collaborative UK project for Iberdrola and ScottishPower. “Due to the nature of the work the fit-out is taking place on every floor, with some floors more advanced than others. Overbury Plc is working from the top of the building down in order to complete each floor. With ceilings and partitions almost finished, work is progressing well.” Graeme added: “At Cooper Cromer we have many years of valued experience working on fit-out contracts throughout the UK and with companies currently looking to modernise their workplace to keep abreast with current office standards and with cost in mind, many companies are now either refurbishing their existing premises or moving into newly refurbished premises. “This is the first time that we have worked alongside Overbury Plc and we’re are enjoying this new working relationship to deliver this very important project. We continue to work very closely with ScottishPower and Iberdrola and they are delighted with the work completed so far.”

School redeveloped to become St Columba’s High School The former Gourock High School is being refurbished to provide a new home for St Columba’s High School on Tower Hill in the town of Gourock, Inverclyde. The existing building, originally built in the 1960’s was in poor condition and in desperate need of updating. The 72 week refurbishment also has some new build elements, in the form of a new wing to the school. A new floor will be added to the main building and the facilities available will be upgraded, including a refurbished gym and games hall, new fitness suite, multi-use games area and allweather sports pitch. A main feature of the new building will be the school Oratory which will be the centre of faith, celebration and worship within the school community. Externally, the finish to the building will be brick with rainscreen cladding. The new building will provide a modern environment for the school to build on its excellent reputation and ethos as well as providing enhanced opportunities for achievement, attainment and personal development for students. The project is costing £14.67 million with funding coming from the Council Capital Programme. McLaughlin & Harvey are the main contractor ad S & P Architects have been appointed as architects and lead consultant by Inverclyde Council on the extension and refurbishment of the school. McLaughlin and Harvey Building & Civil Engineering Contractors have 150 years experience working on a wide variety of projects in a range of sectors; from retail and leisure to railways, roads and bridges. S & P Architects have the capacity and resources to take on projects of any scale throughout Europe and worldwide, with

offices in London, Nottingham, Glasgow and Dublin. On St Columba’s Academy, their initial explorations of the project were to carefully consider the existing form and fabric of the building, and how best to enhance and improve its appearance and performance. They also wanted to reorganise the circulation and social spaces especially as the brief called for a new – and vitally important to the ethos of the school – “oratory” gathering space. Work began on the site in February 2012 and the project is due to be completed in the summer of 2013, currently the development is running on programme. This is an important project for Inverclyde council, as one of the two largest education projects underway at present and a key part of the School Estate Management Plan. A spokesperson from Inverclyde Council said: “The new St Columba’s High School building on Tower Hill will provide a permanent home for the school and its community and will be fully equipped to support first class learning appropriate for the 21st century. The building has been designed to support the delivery of the Curriculum for Excellence and to facilitate the provision of the highest standards of learning and teaching in all areas. The full range of new and fully refurbished indoor and outdoor facilities will ensure that all students are provided with opportunities for personalisation and choice in their learning. The purpose built accommodation will comply fully with all requirements of the Scottish Government and of Inverclyde Council.”

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Breaking new ground with Bupa A £7 million specialist nursing and dementia care home is currently under construction in Bearsden, Glasgow. Mugdock House Care Home is a three-storey, purpose built facility providing care for people living with dementia. Construction of the 64-bed care facility is being implemented by Bupa Care Services and as well as offering dementia care the home will also provide specialist services for elderly people and those requiring general nursing care. Features of Mugdock House Care Home will include distinctive reminiscence activity areas, secure sensory gardens and memory boxes to help residents connect with the past. The site will also include a range of high-quality features, such as wet rooms, Wi-Fi access, a hair salon and a therapy room. The care home is conveniently situated close to high street amenities and is within close proximity to transport links to Glasgow City centre. Scotland’s leading construction company, Dawn Construction is the main contractor on the project, whilst world-class architectural practice Archial is the architect. Once complete, the new care home will form part of a much larger development which will include St Andrew’s Primary School, Bearsden Community College and a residential housing development. The construction of Mugdock House Care Home will also create 90 much needed jobs for the local area. Mugdock House Care Home has been specifically designed to encourage residents to engage with their surroundings and

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as such decorative features will include eye catching pictures colour co-ordinated corridors and signs to help residents manoeuvre around the building. All of the bedrooms will be fully furnished – many including patio doors branching into the gardens – whilst large communal areas will include spacious lounges and dining rooms. An activ-

ity suite will cater for a varied selection of activities – including home baking – and family rooms will provide over night accommodation for residents’ guests. Additional features of Mugdock House Care Home include a cinema and audio visual suite. Work began on the project in November 2011. To mark the occasion local pupils from Bearsden Primary School attended an official ‘ground breaking’ ceremony in order to bury a time capsule on the site. As the event also coincided with the school’s 100th anniversary, pupils attended the ceremony decked out in centenary costumes. Over 40 guests attended the ceremony, including Bupa Chief Executive Ray King and after the time capsule was buried guests were taken to Bearsden Town Hall where they were encouraged to take part in Bupa’s ‘Your Memories Matter’ campaign. The campaign encourages people to share their memories in order to help those who may require specialist dementia care in later life. In discussing the importance of Mugdock House Care Home, Bupa Regional Director, Kenny Valentine, said: “This will be a very special home in the heart of the local community. As experts in caring for elderly people and those living with dementia, we are proud to be offering the residents of Bearsden and Milngavie not only the very best facilities but the highest standard of care and support. “It was great to see the children planting a little piece of the present day on the site as it made it more personal to us all and should be a great discovery in years to come.” Bupa is the UK’s largest provider of dementia care, caring for over 2700 residents in Scotland and employs approximately 3300 members of staff. With no shareholders, Bupa is able to invest its profits to improve the services and amenities offered to its residents and to help improve the standard of care for older people. Bupa care homes are open to everyone – with over 70% of UK residents receiving state funding – and in addition to its UK coverage, Bupa has facilities in Spain, Australia and New Zealand. Bupa’s purpose is to help people lead longer, healthier and happier lives and the new care home in Bearsden will help the group to continue to achieve this goal.

Work on Mugdock House Care Home is scheduled to reach completion in early 2013. For more information about Bupa and its services, please visit: www.bupa.co.uk/care-homes.

Aid Call For over 30 years, Aid Call has specialised in the manufacture and installation of Wireless Nurse Call systems for use in the health care sector. Aid Call installs systems into sites including care homes and hospitals, and works on a range of projects from new builds through to extensions and temporary sites. Amongst Aid Call’s portfolio of projects which numbers over 3000 systems the company has installed Nurse Call Systems at BUPA Warren Lodge, a new £5 million 60 Bed dementia specialist care home in Ashford. In partnership with Spire Hospitals has completed work at the FA’s new centre of excellence St George’s Park Medical Centre at Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire and has completed extensive refurbishment work for the NHS Trust on the Royal Surrey County Hospital to name but a few. On Mugdock House Care Home project for Bupa, Aid Call is installing a Wireless Nurse Call system and staff identification system throughout the whole of the facility, including bedrooms, dining rooms and toilets. Aid Call began working on the project in August 2012 and will remain on the project until its completion in early 2013. Aid Call National Sales Manager, Christopher Donnelly, said: “Leading up to working on this project Aid Call has been involved with Bupa on a number of similar sites after spending the last 12 months developing the solution in partnership with the client. We hope that with the solution and partnership in place we will continue to work with Bupa on many more projects in the future.” Aid Call Marketing Executive, James Werb, added: “At Aid Call we are proud to say that our innovative approach and reputation for delivering reliable, safety critical solutions has positioned us as a leading supplier of wireless nurse call systems.”

Groundbreaking new development at Heriot-Watt University A new £12 million student village has opened at Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus. The project is part of a wider £26 million development programme that has created new residences at the University’s Galashiels Campus. Main contractor for the Edinburgh phase was Morgan Sindall, whilst the main contractor for the Galashiels phase is Miller Construction and the architect is RMJM Limited. As a further expansion of the West Student Village, the Edinburgh project has created 277 bed spaces. Designed as a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional ‘university quad’ courtyard plan, the buildings surround an outdoor social space that is intended to serve as an extension of the indoor living area. The residences have achieved a rating of BREEAM ‘Excellent.’ Following on from the success of the recently completed redevelopment of academic facilities at the Scottish Borders Campus, the Galashiels project will create 218 bed spaces. Both the Edinburgh and Galashiels residences incorporate single en-suite bedrooms, kitchens, lounges and ancillary facilities. Some of these rooms are arranged in five-bedroom cluster flats. Heriot-Watt University Principal, Professor Steve Chapman, said: “These new residences, the latest phase of the University’s dynamic programme of investment to upgrade its estate, are

a major improvement to student residences provision. They replace facilities which are reaching the end of their useful lifespan with modern, attractive and welcoming accommodation with generous space and of a standard which will be at the leading edge of market expectations. “The residence design was developed by a design team experienced in this sector but has also evolved in consultation with staff who will operate and maintain them and, crucially,

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S c otl a n d with students. “We are all delighted that the project has reached this important milestone, on time and within budget.” With work now complete on the Edinburgh campus construction continues to progress with the remainder of the project. Miller Construction Scottish Operations Director, Liam Hanlon, said: “We are delighted to be working with Heriot-Watt University. Miller Construction has a reputation for the delivery of first-class student residencies and I am confident that this new accommodation will further enhance the University’s offer for learners, and contribute to the overall experience of those who choose to stay and study at the Galashiels campus.” Established in 1821, Heriot-Watt University is regarded as one of the UK’s top universities for business and industry. The university delivers degree programmes to approximately 11,800 students in 150 countries and has campuses in Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders, Orkney and Dubai. For more information on Heriot-Watt University, please visit: www.hw.ac.uk.

New wind cluster for Scottish Borders A £4 million project to construct a new wind cluster is nearing completion. Brockholes Wind Cluster is a brand new site taking shape on Brockholes Farm, Duns in the Scottish Borders. The project comprises construction of three Enercon E48 turbines, each measuring 55 metres to the hub and 79.5 meters to the tip, and the installation of an associated sub-station building. Once work is complete on the project, Brockholes Wind Cluster will have a total capacity of 2.4MW of electricity. Brockholes Wind Cluster is being funded by the Co-Operative Bank, with Green Cat Renewables acting as the client’s technical advisor and engineer. Work began on Brockholes Wind Cluster in February 2012. Prior to any work taking place on the project, the site benefitted from good access however the access junction required minor widening and the council requested some laybys be constructed along the unclassified roads accessing the farm. On the farm itself 0.5km of existing tracks were upgraded to facilitate the construction traffic and the mobile crane, with 0.8km of new track constructed providing access to each turbine. The upgrade of the existing access track took the form of 100mm of aggregate with the new access track requiring 350mm of aggregate to accommodate the weight of a 96 tonne crane which is being used during the installation of turbines. Once the planning application for the site was approved a Construction Method Statement and Pre Construction Health and Safety Plan were developed. Surveys were also undertaken to monitor for any badger or bat activity in the surrounding areas, and as a result the council required mitigation measures to be undertaken including the planting of additional woodland to encourage wildlife to move away from the turbines. Currently concrete turbine foundations, provided by Enercon, have been installed on the site and work is continuing to remain on schedule. The installation of turbines began in early October. Andrew Aveyard, Green Cat Renewables, said: “We chose Enercon E48 turbines as Enercon has the best reputation in the industry for supplying high-quality products. Enercon provides a great warranty across all its products and offers services and maintenance through its own UK-based team. “Once the turbines are in place we shouldn’t encounter any major maintenance problems with the site. Enercon E48 turbines have excellent storm control, meaning they operate well through periods of high wind and they are also able to cope with stormy weather conditions.”

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Andrew added: “Getting projects like Brockholes Wind Cluster off the ground is great for Green Cat Renewables as a project like this is exactly what we specialise in. “When tackling a project we always look at different contract structures and what is applicable for each site. On the Brockholes Wind Cluster project we decided a multi-contract approach was preferable and this has helped us provide savings

for the client. Green Cat Renewables designed all the works on the project, including the roads and drainage operations and this allowed us to reduce costs and therefore reduce risks. “Currently we have around 50 projects at different stages of construction from commissioning through to construction and we are very pleased with the progress of Brockholes Wind Cluster.” Brockholes Wind Cluster is scheduled to reach completion in November 2012.

Green Cat Renewables Since 2005, Green Cat Renewables has been developing and building renewable projects throughout the UK. The company has over 50 completed projects with over 50MW of installed capacity, with over 150MW of projects in the pipeline. Green Cat Renewables operates from six offices based in the UK and currently employs a team of over 60 environmental consultants, engineers, geotechnical engineers and legal support, providing a range of services to renewable energy developers. The company works hard to tailor its services to meet the needs of individual developers throughout the entirety of a project.

Developing Kilncraigs Campus A £5.37 million refurbishment project in Alloa continues to make good progress. The Kilncraigs Campus Development project is being implemented by Clackmannanshire Regeneration LLP and comprises the refurbishment of two existing buildings – Patons School and Kilncraigs 1936 building. Once work on the project is complete, the buildings will provide office accommodation for Council staff. Marshall Construction Ltd is the main contractor on the project, whilst LDN Architects is providing all architectural services. Scott Bennett Associates is the structural consultant on the project, Irons Foulner Consulting Engineers is the mechanical and electrical consultant and Alan Booth of SCOT Sheridan is the development manager. Ninian Somerville, Clackmannanshire Council, said: “The Council own three former industrial buildings in the Town Centre in Alloa known as the Kilncraigs 1904 building, the Kilncraigs 1936 building and the former Patons School. “The contract was to develop and re-furbish the former Patons School and Kilncraigs 1936 building in order to co-locate all Council staff based in Greenfield and Lime Tree House within one location in Alloa Town Centre by the beginning of 2013. This will provide Council offices on five levels, for 300 additional staff and work station facilities for 75 external tenant staff.” Work began on the Kilncraigs Campus Development project in April 2012 and comprises the complete refurbishment of the ‘A’ Listed 1936 building and the derelict Patons School. Refurbishment works in the 1936 building include the installation of a proprietary plasterboard system on the walls, the introduction of a secondary glazing system on external walls and the installation of new timber flooring. Specialist glass partition system will be used for internal meeting rooms, whilst a new ducted air handling system will be installed in the office spaces. The site will also benefit from new furniture – to supplement some existing furniture – and the completion of associated decorating works. Work on Patons School includes the installation of a new reception, business staff accommodation, and offices, whilst a new first floor Council Chamber with IT presentation facilities will also be included. External work on the project includes the creation of a new public entrance, the installation of new footways and some mi-

nor landscaping works. A more efficient car park is also being included to provide parking provisions for both disabled and able bodied drivers. In addition, Clackmannanshire Council is currently in the process of finalising a Green Travel Plan to incorporate cycling, car sharing and electric car facilities at the site. Whilst work is being conducted on the project the 1936 building will remain vacant, however the adjoining 1904 building remains fully operational. Marshall Construction Ltd is making all efforts to ensure that all disruptions to services are kept to a minimum during the programme of works. Ninian said: “The project is crucial to the Council for improving efficient services for the community, delivering property revenue savings, and improving customer service and operational efficiencies. The project investment will also serve to promote regeneration of the town centre and retains an important ‘A’ Listed building as part of the Clackmannanshire heritage. “The refurbishment of the 1936 building completes and adds to the successful design award-winning refurbishment of the 1904 building, finally retaining in full a major building key to the Alloa heritage.” The Kilncraigs Campus Development project is scheduled to reach completion in July 2013.

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Shining new light on Sumburgh Head A £5.4 million project is currently underway in the Shetland Islands to provide Sumburgh Head with improved facilities. The Sumburgh Head project comprises the erection of a new building, the refurbishment of existing lighthouse buildings and the expansion of interpretive material for visitors. Once work is complete on the project the site will benefit from new office space, an interpretation centre, an education room and highquality accommodation for visitors. The redevelopment project is being led by Shetland Amenity Trust, working in partnership with RSPB Scotland, and an extensive number of funders. Project funders include: The Scottish Rural Development Programme; the European Regional Development Fund; The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF); Historic Scotland; Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE); and Scottish Natural Heritage. Funding is also being provided by the Wolfson Foundation; Shetlands Islands Council; The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and Shetland Amenity Trust. Leading organisation Shetland Amenity Trust sees its project partners and funders as a vital element to the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage at Sumburgh Head, which is an RSPB Scotland Bird Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. In addition, the organisation is also working with the Northern Lighthouse Board (NLB) – the General Lighthouse Authority for Scotland and the Isle of Man – who own and manage the light and tower at Sumburgh Head. Work started on the Sumburgh Head project in May 2012. As education and lifelong learning is a key factor of the project the Education Centre is a brand new element to the site that will be used to increase knowledge and raise awareness of the natural and cultural heritage of Sumburgh Head. The new centre will be used by school and visitor groups and with its floor-to-ceiling windows and exterior platform the Education Centre will provide the perfect place to see the awe inspiring views of the sea. As the Education Centre is the only new build element on the project, the majority of the work at Sumburgh Head will involve careful refurbishment and restoration operations to improve and develop the existing site. An existing accommodation block will be restored to its original layout, whilst a lighthouse design theme will be incorporated into the facility, along with the inclusion of modern finishes. Meanwhile, refurbishment work will be carried out on the radar station, alongside the provision of interpretive signage to provide visitors with a better understanding of how the site was used during World War II.

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Office accommodation will also be improved and extended during the redevelopment work. Existing RSPB Scotland office facilities will be reworked to become the upper level of the Marine Life Centre, whilst provisions will be made for residential volunteer opportunities with RSPB Scotland during the summer months. Additional work on the site will also be conducted to improve access roads and car parking, as well as visitor viewpoints. Corramore Construction Ltd is the main contractor on the Sumburgh Head project, whilst BogackiDesign is involved with the branding, exhibition and interpretive design of the site. Award-winning practice Groves Raines Architects Ltd is providing all architectural services on the project. In addition to the Sumburgh Head project, Shetland Amenity Trust has previously worked on a number of restoration projects with Groves Raines, including Hay’s Dock in Lerwick and Belmont House in Unst. Sumburgh Head is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in Shetlands and regularly attracts between 25,000 and 30,000 visitors each year. The attraction offers visitors detailed insights into the history of both the site and the surrounding area. This is one of the best places in the UK for close up views of puffins amongst the thousands of sea birds which nest here, and the chance to spot dolphins, killer whales or Minke Whales. The Sumburgh Head project is currently scheduled to reach completion in spring 2014. For more information regarding The Sumburgh Head project please visit: www.sumburghhead.com.

Wa l e s

Harnessing the wind in Wales A new onshore wind farm project continues to make great progress in Wales. The £70m Pant Y Wal Wind Farm is located between Ogmore Vale and Cwm Clydach Forest in South Wales. The project comprises the construction of two wind farms - Pant y Wal Wind Farm and Fforch Nest Wind Farm - which will be collectively known as Pant y Wal Wind Farm. The wind farm comprises 21 turbines, each with a capacity of 2.5MW and once the wind farm is fully operational, the facility will produce enough energy to power approximately 36,000 homes. The power from the facility will be managed and supplied by Nordex UK Ltd, under a 10 year operating and maintenance agreement. Work commenced on the project in late October 2011 when construction began on a 4.5km access road to the site. Foundations were installed on the site in mid-2012, whilst the turbines are currently scheduled for erection towards the end of 2012 and will continue through to the beginning of 2013. Funding for the project has been provided by Lloyds TSB and from an equity investment from Pennant Walters Holdings and its joint venture partners InfraRed Capital Partners. InfraRed Capital Partners Director, James Hall-Smith, said: “The development lead times for onshore wind farms are substantial and this project represents an important milestone for InfraRed’s environmental infrastructure investment programme and for the deployment of renewable energy capacity in the UK.” Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets Senior Director, Richard

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Simon Lewis, added: “The financing on a sole basis of one of the largest onshore wind transactions in Wales provides an illustration of the Bank’s ‘through the cycle’ lending credentials together with its commitment to supporting both its relationship clients and the UK’s burgeoning low carbon energy sector.” Walters UK is the civil engineering contractor and Powersystems Ltd is the electrical contractor. The project management is provided by Pennant Walters Holdings Ltd. In 2005 the Welsh Assembly Government implemented a planning exercise to concentrate wind farm developments within specific areas. Pant Y Wal Wind Farm is located within Strategic Search Area F (SSA F), which is eventually expected to host up to 430MW of wind farms. The existing RWE Npower Taff Ely Wind Farm is located outside SSA F, 5km to the south of the site.

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“Intégral Geótechnique are proud to have worked on the Pant Y Wal Windfarm, alongside Walters Group” Tel 02920 807991 Email: mail@integralgeotec.com

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The site was selected due to a number of significant benefits, including good wind speed, distance from residential properties, location in SSA F and good access. There were also limited ecological interests, no challenging ground conditions and a minimal number of trees that required felling. Before work commenced on the site, preparation works included the implementation of trial pits. A full set of test holes were also drilled at each of the turbine locations and tests were also conducted at other locations around the site. As part of the Environmental Impact Assessment works, a suite of studies were conducted on the site. Some of these recommendations were subsequently taken into consideration for the purposes of planning permission. With work taking place on the site during one of the UK’s wettest summers the tight construction programme has proved challenging, yet works are currently progressing on schedule.

Nordex N90 HS turbines were selected based on their proven technology and solid track record in the UK and Europe. German turbine specialist Nordex was awarded the contract following a rigorous tender exercise between major manufacturers. The turbines have a hub height of 70m and a rotor diameter of 45 metres, giving them an impressive tip height of 115m. Due to a grid constraint, the export capacity of Pant Y Wal will be 44MW. The turbines will be installed using 25oT and 500T mobile cranes. Pant Y Wal Wind Farm is Pennant Walters Holdings’ second wind farm construction project. The company completed its first site at Maesgwyn in April 2011 and the wind farm is now fully operational. Pant Y Wal Wind Farm is scheduled for completion in March 2013.

Gwynt y Môr wind farm Built eight miles off the Welsh coast, Gwynt y Môr is one of the largest offshore wind farms currently in construction in Europe. Once the project is completed, 160 turbines will produce enough electricity to supply 400,000 homes. The €2 billion investment is shared between partners Innogy, Stadtwerke München GmbH and Siemens, while being constructed by RWE npower renewable. The wind farm is due for completion in 2014 with the project providing a huge range of exciting business opportunities for UK and European companies. The partners involved are keen to place contracts in the UK where possible and such a large investment will provide a major boost for a huge range of businesses across the UK and

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Europe. A total of £200 million has been invested into the UK supply chain and as a result of the project, more than £70 million has already been awarded to Welsh companies. The wind farm has been designed to have a 25-year working lifetime, during which it is thought that over 100 new jobs are likely to be created in support of the Operations and Maintenance of the wind farm. In the delivery of Gwynt y Môr wind farm, the creation of and support for local jobs is deemed to be an important part of the project. A socio-economic study of the project found that a significant number of jobs could be created in Wales and a total of 1000 jobs could be created in the UK as a whole. As part of their commitment to helping the UK businesses get the most out of opportunities with Gwynt y Môr, in January 2011

RWE Energy hosted a Supply Chain Information Event in partnership with the Welsh Government. At the event businesses were given valuable information and advice from RWE npower renewable, Siemens and other contractors. This advice included details on how to best work with the renewable industry, and how to gear up to become more competitive in the future. Business Minister Edwina Hart said: “It is vitally important that large-scale energy projects such as Gwynt y Môr support the regional economy and create jobs locally. “Businesses across Wales should maximise on the economic potential of power generation to create jobs, wealth and growth as the Welsh government works to develop a new low-carbon economy.” Those companies already announced as being involved include Siemens Transmission and Distribution ltd, Siemens Offshore, National Grid, Prysmian Cables and Systems Ltd, Cammell Laird and Global Marine Systems. Contracts are still to be awarded with companies all over the UK and announcements are likely to be made throughout 2012 detailing those businesses to be involved in the project. There is also already a visible ripple effect in terms of job creation from Gwynt y Môr. Turbine Transfers, a family-run business based in Holyhead, announced that it was creating 20 jobs after winning a multimillion-pound contract to provide six crew vessels to ferry workers to the wind farm site. Turbine Transfers Limited was started in 2008 with two wind farm support vessels. Now it has 31, with more in 2013. The company has also commissioned new catamarans for the project. As part of the deal, announced at Mostyn port in July, Turbine Transfers will also operate two further crew transfer vessels at another wind farm off the German coast. There was also a three-month operation to lay undersea cables,

bringing electricity ashore from the Gwynt y Môr wind farm. The project also shows evidence of UK companies working together. In August, a 1,500-tonne platform, engineered by Siemens in Manchester and Harland and Wolff in Belfast, was transported from Belfast to the north coast of Wales. Harland and Wolff sales manager David McVeigh said: “It is great to see these major projects designed and built in the UK. These projects utilise a vast range of UK products, equipment, services and personnel. “The substations are a shining example of British companies working together to achieve great things.” The substation for the offshore wind farm was built near St Asaph, Denbighshire, to feed electricity into the national grid. The substation will be installed in Liverpool Bay and will power almost a third of homes in Wales.

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I re l a n d

Apex Housing Group: Supporting local communities As a leading name in housing association schemes, Apex Housing Group has certainly made its mark on projects throughout Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic. The group’s key areas of expertise include house & property management, accommodation construction and the provision of a dedicated care & support service and with over 3,000 units already completed throughout Northern Ireland the group continues to build on its impressive reputation. Apex Housing is registered with the Department of Social Development and provides housing and support for those in need, catering from young and elderly people, to those living with mental health and learning difficulties. The group also prides itself on its provision of housing for people who require emergency shelter. In addition, Apex Housing’s accommodation stock also includes nursing accommodation and hostels. Apex Housing Group employs over 500 members of staff and is responsible for a range of accommodation and mixed tenure developments. The group views the need to provide residents with low cost home ownership options as vital for providing a full service to its tenants. Current Apex projects include Tigers Bay in Belfast, a 10 unit terrace house development; and Church Bay in Rathlin Island, a 10 unit semi-detached housing development. Tigers Bay is being constructed on Limestone Road and Hallidays Road in Belfast and comprises six, three-bedroom houses and four, two-bedroom houses, with a completion date set for January 2013. Meanwhile, Church Bay comprises seven, three-bedroom houses and three, two-bedroom houses and is scheduled to reach completion in March 2013. In addition, Apex Housing Group is also working hard to complete the Rinmore Re-improvement Scheme which is currently taking place in Derry. Prior to work taking place on the scheme The Housing Executive transferred 38 dwellings in Creggan to Apex Housing Association for the purpose of improving the units. As part of the scheme Apex Housing Association has offered tenants the choice of two or three-bedroom houses to meet their individual housing requirements. The Rinmore Re-improvement Scheme is being conducted in five phases and with work already complete on Phase One the second phase of works is currently underway. Apex Housing Group always strives to ensure that its dwellings meet the needs of its tenants so has a dedicated property services department which includes a planned preventative and response maintenance programme. The programme is in place to protect and enhance the value of each property and key elements include response maintenance – a day-to-day repair service; planned maintenance – a con-

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tract refurbishment service; and cyclical maintenance – which include internal and external painting, equipment servicing and grounds maintenance works. In addition, the programme also includes miscellaneous maintenance, a service which takes into account fire precautions, asbestos management and other important aspects of health and safety. As well as providing services that maintain the life of each property Apex Housing Group is also interested in maintaining the well being of all its tenants. As part of this dedication, Apex Housing Group works hard to reduce anti-social behaviour across its accommodation portfolio, so that all its residents can live in a safe and friendly environment. Although Apex Housing Group’s work takes place largely in Northern Ireland the group is involved with a number of schemes abroad. Since 2001, Apex Housing Association has worked with international charity Children in Crossfire (CIC) to fund a variety of projects taking place in Kenya and Tanzania. Projects include Makutano in Kenya, which comprised the construction of a dam, a community food store and community centre; and more recently Milwaleni in Tanzania, which comprised construction of a community clinic and accommodation for clinic staff. In 2011, Apex also provided funding for the inclusion of solar panels on the clinic and accommodation unit. All of the projects that form Apex Housing Group’s charitable work are carried out by the local community and a representative for CIC, whilst funding is raised by staff and tenant fundraising activities and donations. For more information about Apex Housing Group please visit: www.apexhousing.org.

A s s o c i ati o n s

Learning new skills with the National Association of Chimney Engineers A Specialist Apprenticeship Programme (SAP) developed especially for chimney engineers has been set up to provide on-the-job and off-the-job training. The SAP has been developed by the National Association of Chimney Engineers (NACE), working in partnership with CITBConstruction Skills (CSkills), and with the support of HETAS. The programme comprises 65 on-the-job training days and 25 off-the-job training days and includes modules specifically designed to provide apprentices with the required skills for chimney engineering. The SAP modules for chimney engineers will cover all aspects of health, safety and first aid right through to an understanding of the principles of chimney and flue refurbishment. Apprentices will be able to learn the best ways to line chimneys, the correct ways to use hand and power tools, and basic chimney construction skills. As qualified chimney engineers are expected to work on rooftops in a safe and secure manner, one module will even focus on the best ways to undertake work at a height. This module will demonstrate how best to work with PASMA scaffold towers and roof ladders, which will be invaluable for apprentices who come to rely on these important skills on a daily basis. The use of flexible metallic lining systems, cast in-situ concrete lining systems, surveying and testing will also be taught as part of the programme. Most of NACE’s off-the-job training takes place in Derbyshire at Sure Fire Technical Services and regular assessments will take place throughout the two-year duration of the programme. The final assessment will take place on site and upon successful completion of the programme apprentices will receive the NVQ Diploma in Chimney Engineering level 2. Currently 1 in every 5 employers is hiring an apprentice as they continue to work their way through the current economic climate. Apprenticeships provide businesses with motivated team members who are keen to get ahead in life, and schemes such as SAP help apprentices to achieve their goals with the correct set of skills. The content of each SAP module provides apprentices with the necessary formal training they require to forge a career in the industry and the programme is open to candidates of all ages. At present SAP is limited to 8 places. However, there is scope to develop the programme beyond the initial placements if demand from employers is high. The registration fee for this SAP - including off-the-job training and assessment - is currently £4,590 + VAT and subject to conditions may be paid in instalments. A substantial grant is available for those interested in taking part in the programme. The grant is available for businesses that are registered with CITB-CSkills and may exceed the training and assessment costs over the two-year period of the programme.

All NACE members are trained to carry out installations to the highest standards of quality and can provide quotes for repair work, undertake surveys and provide clients with the best possible advice. All chimney engineers that take up membership with NACE are required to have an extensive knowledge of the industry and every chimney lined or installed by a member will include a NACE data plate stating the chimney’s compliance with relevant building regulations. To become a NACE member please contact info@nace.org.uk or call 01526 322555. For more information on grants and registration for the Chimney Engineers’ Specialist Apprenticeship Programme please visit www.cskills.org/apprenticeships

More about NACE The National Association of Chimney Engineers was set up in 1982 to maintain national standards of workmanship in the industry. The company promotes a high quality product and ensures that the safety of all UK and Ireland fuel users is the Association’s number one priority. NACE provides clients with a register of competent chimney engineers and they conduct all building and repair work in line with Building Regulation Standards. ROMA PUBLICATIONS

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Apprentices needed as construction sector faces potential retirement time bomb It has been announced that problems could arise in the construction industry due to an ageing workforce and a ‘limited injection of new blood’. Mark Farrar, Chief Executive of CITB-ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council and Industry Training Board for the construction industry, said: “When you look at the age profile demographics across the whole construction industry, there is a tendency towards older employees. Indeed, a significant number are coming up to retirement age in the next five to ten years. “Fewer people are coming through behind them because of the recession in the early 1990s. During this difficult time, the industry lost many people who never returned. “Statistics indicate that in the next 10 years there will be around half a million fewer 16 - 24 year olds in the country as a whole, and this at a time when firms are starting to fight hard for young apprentices or undergraduates to come into their sectors. As a result, the construction industry does have a fight on its hands;

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it has to make sure that it accesses good quality people from a significantly smaller pooler of talent.” He added: “The sectors’ ageing workforce will need replacing; therefore one of our main focuses is promoting the entry of new talent into the industry and driving young people to us for training.” CITB-ConstructionSkills has organised a series of events which have successfully increased the take-up of apprentices by 47%. The events were run as part of the CITB-ConstructionSkills Positive Image campaign and led to 65 employers signing up to get their hands on the UK’s best young talent. With over 200 employers now committed to offering apprenticeships in areas ranging from carpentry to craft masonry, CITB-ConstructionSkills calls on companies to follow suit and invest in the skills today that will drive future growth. CITB-ConstructionSkills ran a programme of employer breakfast meetings, construction challenges, careers events and oneto-ones with its staff and staff from the National Construction College (NCC) as part of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW). The event brought employers face-to-face with over 600 young people interested in the sector. Well over a quarter of the employers who attended an event committed to take on apprenticeships. One employer who attended the event, CMC Ltd’s Martyn Price, said: “I was delighted to be associated with National Apprenticeship

Week to support the benefits that apprentices can bring to any business. The pledge demonstrated our ongoing commitment which we anticipate will continue to benefit our business for many future years. The Positive Image campaign’s drive to recruit the brightest and best talent has really paid off.” CITB-ConstructionSkills’ Mark Farrar added: “The events helped show employers the wealth of keen young people who were eager to work in the construction sector. We were delighted to see so many firms sign up to offer apprenticeships. “However, there was an opportunity for many more employers to get involved and leave a lasting legacy for the construction industry. It’s only by investing in the workforce of tomorrow that we will survive.” In July 2011 research indicated that employers felt there were significant gaps in their employees’ skills, which seriously limited the potential for growth in the industry. In a CITB survey of 1450 employers in the sector, specific gaps in skills that were identified included understanding the implications of green issues (43%), identifying potential new business (39%) and not having sufficient IT skills (43%). A further 32% also stated that their management team’s ability to identify the training needs of staff was an area that needed improvement.

Hewden Training Hewden Training is a leading provider of specialist training

courses for the construction industry. All of the company’s courses are industry accredited and cover such subjects as health and safety, crane operation and access training. In addition, Hewden Training also offers a bespoke training service whereby courses can be adapted to meet the requirements of contract customers. Hewden Training has been in operation for more than 44 years – providing specialist training services to clients aged 17 and up – and has recently introduced a brand new online booking system. The new system allows clients to access information on all available courses and provides a one-stop-shop for customers requiring the company’s unique services. Hewden Training Manager, Danielle Rigby, said: “In order to operate machinery, everybody in the industry needs some form of training. We fulfil our customers’ needs by providing a training service that allows everyone to be trained to the correct level and this is especially important for teams working on the same site. “At Hewden Training we also provide a bespoke service which allows us to meet our clients’ requirements each and every time. We are currently developing a brand new course for Barratt Homes – which is very specific to the way the company operates – and this is something we can do for other companies. Not many companies offer this level of service and it certainly makes us stand out from the crowd.”

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Ensuring a bright future for the past English Heritage exists to protect and promote England’s spectacular historic environment and ensure that its past is researched and understood. English Heritage is the government’s statutory adviser on the historic environment. Officially known as the Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England, English Heritage is an executive non-departmental public body that is sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). The powers and responsibilities of English Heritage are set out in the National Heritage Act (1983) and today they report to Parliament through the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. Although sponsored by DCMS, English Heritage works with a range of government departments, notably CLG and Defra, to help realise the potential of the historic environment. English Heritage is funded in part by the government, and is also part funded from revenue earned from their historic properties and other services. In 2008/09 the organisation’s public funding was worth £132.7 million, and income from other sources was £48.1 million. English Heritage works in partnership with central government departments, local authorities, voluntary bodies and the private sector to conserve and enhance the historic environment, broaden public access to the heritage and increase people’s understanding of the past. The organisation meets these responsibilities by: acting as a national and international champion for the heritage; giving grants for the conservation of historic buildings, monuments and landscapes; maintaining registers of England’s most significant historic buildings, monuments and landscapes; and advising on the preservation of the historic environment. English Heritage also encourages broader public involvement with the heritage, promotes heritage-related education and research, cares for Stonehenge and over 400 other historic properties on behalf of the nation, maintains the National Monuments Record as the public archive of the heritage and generates income for the benefit of the historic environment. English Heritage is currently running a five-year investment programme for its properties. Based on an audit of all the organisation’s properties, £30 million is being targeted at those sites with the most commercial potential, in order to make as many sites as possible self-financing. Projects range from major refurbishment and restoration works at Kenilworth Castle to relatively small but significant improvements to exhibitions and interpretation, catering and retail facilities. In the construction sector, English Heritage has joined forces with ConstructionSkills to call for concerted action across the construction industry, the built heritage sector, educational establishments, careers organisations, funding bodies and government departments to tackle the continued shortage of heritage building skills. English Heritage has also published research demonstrating the shortage of craft skills across the country and a Skills Action Plan which they are now implementing. This includes raising the profile of vocational training and the built heritage construction sector and attracting more young people to pursue careers within it. The plan is also geared towards encouraging the use of suitably skilled and qualified people, and developing qualifications to ensure that traditional building knowledge and skills can be attained from GCSE to Master Craft level. Find out more at www.english-heritage.org.uk

Meet the conservation specialists Mike and Gary Simpson, a father and son team, run a specialist

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conservation firm called Heritage Consolidation from their base in Northumberland. Their specialities include stonemasonry and lime-based mortars, along with plastering and render. Recent years have seen them take the admirable and, some would say, bold decision to focus entirely on heritage restoration work. The duo has completed restoration work for both English Heritage and Natural England. Their experiences have helped them to reach the conclusion that not only is a conservationfocused business an extremely viable enterprise, but their traditional skills are lacking across the UK. And that’s without mentioning their love for the work.

Scotcourt Ltd Scotcourt Ltd is proud to have completed numerous traditional masonry contracts, both as principal contractor for masonry projects and as sub contractor for traditional lime works. This work includes re-pointing, lime repairs and masonry restorative cleaning along with replacement operations using traditional methods and techniques of conservation. All work is carried out by trained operatives which ensures that our built environment continue to be in safe hands. A spokesman for Scotcourt said: “Your building’s past is our future.” www.scotcourt-stonemasonsltd.co.uk

It’s official: The Limecrete Company Ltd is outstanding The Limecrete Company has been awarded a contract on an ‘outstanding’ BREEAM project at the University of Bradford. The Limecrete Company Ltd – a Norfolk based sustainable construction firm – has been awarded the contract to place the hempcrete at the Sustainability and Enerprise Centre at the University of Bradford. The SEC has been designed to BREEAM ‘oustanding’ standards and is aiming to achieve the highest BREEAM rating of any building in the world. The Limecrete Company will be using their cutting edge hemp spraying machinery while working for GB Building Solutions and placing Tradical® Hemcrete® from Lime Technologies. Louise Yallop from The Limecrete Company said: “We are proud to be entrusted with this innovative and prestigious project. This feels like the culmination of many years of hard work. We are lucky to have a brilliant team who impressed the main contractors with their attitude and workmanship when they visited us on site.” BREEAM stands for Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method and is the world’s leading environmental assessment method for buildings. BREEAM takes an holistic approach to measuring environmental impact and sets the standard for sustainable building design. Values of sustainability run through the whole design of the SEC from the materials used to the physics of the building and the renewable technologies employed. Hempcrete has been chosen along with other sustainable building materials such as timber and recycled aggregates. Made from combining UK grown hemp shiv with a lime based binder, hempcrete is carbon negative and therefore highly thermally efficient. The material regulates the temperature and

humidity of a building, benefiting health and reducing heating and cooling bills to a fraction of those on conventionally built buildings. The SEC will showcase truly sustainable design and promote sustainable living through its use as a research and learning centre.

Lincoln Castle invests in old skills Lincolnshire County Council is investing £2.1 million in a Heritage Skills Centre, which will provide training in old fashioned trades. The new-build, single storey building is part of Lincoln Castle Revealed, a project which aims to improve various parts of the castle complex. This phase of Lincoln Castle Revealed began in October 2011 and was completed in September 2012. The main contractor on the project was Robert Woodhead Ltd and the architect was Arrol & Snell Limited. Daniel King, Quantity Surveyor with Robert Woodhead Ltd, said: “I think this is the first new building in the castle walls for over 100 years. It’s going to be used to train people in old heritage skills such as stone masonry and stained glass” Within the building there is an entrance, reception area and male and female changing rooms. Towards the rear of the Heritage Skills Centre there are two workshops; the building will mainly house workshop and storage space.

The building is around 430 square metres, with a glulam timber frame and hemcrete panels for the external walls. The centre also has a green roof system and oak windows and doors. The site was previously a car park which has been relocated, and care is being taken to blend the centre into the existing area through landscaping. Daniel said: “The work has progressed well but has gone slightly over programme as there have been a few extra things we’ve had to do. Hopefully this is going to be an award winner for us. It’s quite a prestigious project and one we are pleased to have worked on.” “It’s a place where the local youngsters can continue to learn these special crafts, obviously with the cathedral being next door as well, there are quite a few historic buildings in Lincoln so hopefully they can continue the maintenance of them. “It’s a nice project for us to do, in a separate contract we’re also working on the repair of the south curtain wall, the first phase of the Castle’s wall repair programme. Overall, the whole Lincoln Castle Revealed project is a huge investment, with £22 ROMA PUBLICATIONS

Heritage

million being spent in total. It’s all going to be revamped- the skills centre is the first part to be completed and work is underway on the walls which are planned for completion by the end of 2014.” As the home of Magna Carta, Lincoln Castle Revealed involves plans to build a new vault to showcase it, along with the Charter of the Forest. There will also be a cinema space and the castle walls will be repaired with a complete wall walk circuit created for the first time, which will have disabled access. Within the complex are two prison buildings, which will be

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refurbished with the previously-closed Victorian male prison being opened to the public for the first time in many years. This will be complemented by a new cafe, shop, toilets and education space, whilst disabled access will be improved across the site. Access into the grounds through the East and West Gates will also become free during daylight hours. It is hoped that the entire Lincoln Castle Revealed project will be completed by the end of 2014, ahead of Magna Carta’s 800th anniversary in 2015.