LGN December 2018

Volume 40. No4

Local Government News www.LocalGov.co.uk

Low carbon economy What funding is available for councils to deliver heat networks?

Going bankrupt?

The consequences councils face if unable to deliver statutory duties

New foundations An interview with Liverpool’s new housing company

December 2018

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Contents

Editor Laura Sharman T: 020 7973 4644 l.sharman@hgluk.com Sales Executive James Tyson T: 020 7973 4638 Commercial Manager Jason Pidgeon T: 020 7973 4645 Commercial Manager Samantha Marsh T: 020 7973 4619 Head of Local Government Sales Kasia Brzeska: T: 020 7973 4769 Sales Co-ordinator Adrian Bradnam T: 020 7973 4646 a.bradnam@hgluk.com Production Tim Malone t.malone@hgluk.com Production Editor Trent Nicholson Marketing Mustak Kothia m.kothia@hgluk.com Subscriptions Maggie Spillane m.spillane@hgluk.com Editorial Director Michael Burton m.burton@hgluk.com Managing Director Bill Butler b.butler@hgluk.com

finance

The consequences a council may face if it is unable to provide statutory services or deliver a balanced budget P15 legal

How councils can best manage roles in local authority companies P16 It & technology

The need for councils to close the digital attainment gap for children living in poverty P18 procurement & efficiency

Local Government News (ISSN: 02615185) is published by Hemming Media, a division of Hemming Group Ltd, 32 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London SW1V 2SS. Local Government News is published on a quarterly strictly controlled circulation basis and sent free of charge to readers who meet the publisher’s registered terms of control. To register, readers should call 020 7973 6694. Maximum life of registration is three years. Other readers can take out an annual subscription of £55.00 in the UK or £69.00 overseas (including Eire).

Every effort is made to ensure that the contents of this publication are accurate but the publisher accepts no responsibility for effects arising there from. We do not accept responsibility for loss or damage arising from unsolicited contributions.

Opinions expressed by the contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher. This publication is protected by copyright and no part may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher.

How local government procurement has changed this year and how councils can meet updated procurement policy P21 built environment

Does the publication of Letwin’s final report into tackling the housing crisis mean councils will take a more proactive role in development? P24 green building & energy efficiency

A new report explaining what ‘smart buildings’ are – and how councils can pay for them P26 What funding is available to enable local authorities to deliver heat networks P28 How councils can ensure their energy systems are prepared to cope with seasonal changes P32 public realm

Data from the Digging Up Britain report explains how common asset strikes are and how councils can stop them from happening P35 There has been an explosion of colours and designs in the asphalt market, so is time for councils to think beyond black? P39

HEMMING GROUP

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December 2018

News in brief this month Laura Sharman rounds up the most popular news stories from our website www.LocalGov.co.uk

Top 10 most productive councils revealed ‘Fetishising failure’ distracts increasingly scarce management time away from improving outcomes, according to a new report naming the top 10 most productive councils.

Former minister calls for end to ‘toxic’ permitted development The planning system is failing to address public concerns in its current state, a former housing

Capita to pay council more than £4m for poor performance

Council scraps plans to force staff to take unpaid leave

Outsourcing company Capita has agreed to pay more than £4m compensation to Barnet Council for its poor performance.

Somerset County Council has backed down over a plan force staff to take two days unpaid leave over Christmas.

Study launched into future of public libraries

Councils could save £16bn by refinancing LOBO loans

A new project to explore how libraries can be funded, managed and delivered in the future has been launched by Libraries Connected and CILIP.

minister has said.

December 2018

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Councils are failing to save £16bn by not replacing their expensive LOBO loans with ones from the Government, new research has warned.

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Web news

Northants can use £70m in capital receipts to plug finance gap

Don’t dump the rule book under pressure, ombudsman warns

Outsourcing firms forced to draw up plans in case of collapse

Northamptonshire CC will be allowed to use £70m in capital receipts to plug its financial black hole, James Brokenshire has ruled.

Councils have been warned not to let budget squeezes and disruption caused by change programmes to land them in trouble with the Ombudsman.

Outsourcing companies will have to draw up ‘living wills’ saying what would happen if they go bust under plans announced by the Government.

Councils should set up ‘food resilience teams’ to prepare for Brexit

Allied Healthcare saved from bankruptcy

Over 28,000 council jobs cut in Wales

One of the biggest providers of adult care has been sold to another company – just two weeks after announcing it was winding up its business.

More than 28,000 local authority jobs have been lost in Wales as a result of Whitehall spending cuts, a union has revealed.

Liverpool launches council-owned housing company

Councils on verge of ‘real-time data revolution’

Mayor agrees to buy airport in £40m deal

Liverpool City Council has launched a new housing company which aims to help residents onto the housing ladder through a Rent to Buy scheme.

Councils across England could be on the brink of a ‘real-time data revolution’, according to the results of a new survey.

Durham Tees Valley Airport (DTVA) looks set to be brought back into public ownership as part of a £40m deal.

Food policy experts are advising local authorities to set up ‘food resilience teams’ to prepare for different Brexit scenarios.

www.LocalGov.co.uk

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December 2018

William Eichler interviews the chair of Liverpool’s new housing company to find out how it plans to deliver 10,000 homes over the next decade.

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iverpool City Council has set up a private housing company in order to - in the words of Mayor Joe Anderson - ‘radically reshape’ the city’s housing market. In the midst of a national housing crisis and with council budgets stretched to breaking point, many authorities are experimenting with new ways of delivering much needed homes. Foundations, as Liverpool’s new company is called, is an ambitious example of what can be done.

‘There isn’t one housing crisis in the country,’ Foundations chair Frank Hont told Local Government News. ‘Each area has their own particular housing crisis.’ Only 47% of households in Liverpool are owner occupied, compared to a UK average of about 65%. Almost 30% of households are privately rented, a figure that increases to 50% in the more deprived areas. More — and more affordable — housing is needed, in other words.

In total, the council estimates the city will need 27,000 new homes by 2030 to meet demand. It is hoped that Foundations can help address the shortfall. Wholly-owned by the city council, the £500m private company — paid for by the Public Works Loan Board via the council — aims to work through public-private partnerships to deliver 10,000 new homes over the next decade. These will include bespoke properties for the homeless, foster carers, large families, the elderly and people with disabilities. When it was first announced in 2017, Mayor Anderson explained the rationale behind the name. It is called Foundations, he said, because ‘that is precisely what it will provide for generations of people.’

One way this will happen is through a new Rent to Buy scheme. This will allow people to pay reduced rent on Foundations properties, which would enable them to save enough money for a deposit to buy the home they are renting. This money can then flow back into more housing. ‘Our intention,’ says Mr Hont, ‘is that the money from both house sales and rents will then be reinvested back into the Foundations programme to help create even more homes and support more people in our city as they take the first step on to the housing ladder.’

Describing it as an ‘ambitious programme’, Mr Hont emphasises the homes will not all be

December 2018

new build. ‘Foundations has the ambition to refurbish and regenerate areas by using existing stock — some of which would have fallen into disrepair, some of which will be vacant,’ he says.

The housing supply in Liverpool is dominated by small terraced houses which, apart from skewing the city’s council tax revenue, were largely built before 1919 and therefore require refurbishing.

There are also homes which were abandoned when the Government stopped funding the Housing Market Renewal Initiative in 2011.

Foundations is predicted to create 2,000 new jobs in the city. On top of this, it plans to provide more opportunities for training, as the company’s chief executive Mark Kitts, a housing and regeneration professional, explains. ‘Foundations will be committed to delivering training and skills opportunities for young people in the city. We’ll be working with contractors who will be encouraged to use

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local supply chains and locally-sourced labour.

In addition, we’ll work with providers such as higher education colleges to deliver on-thejob training, including apprenticeships for young people who want to forge a career in the construction industry.’

‘This will be a win-win for everyone,’ Mayor Anderson says, ‘as the council will be able to increase council tax, influence the quality of the housing and support people who want to buy by turning rent into a deposit. This company has more than just a social value, its business model also stacks up as a serious investment in the future of the city.’

To date, Foundations has identified, and is assessing for feasibility, more than 40 potential sites across Liverpool. These are located across the city centre, neighbourhoods and on the waterfront. It is also taking an early look at some of the more challenged neighbourhoods in the

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News feature

SHUTTERSTOCK

at ion for Liverpool

“The biggest problems in housing across the country is that we have had more housing ministers than you can shake a stick at and housing policy nationally seems to change at the whim of those ministers.” city, such as Kensington, Wavertree and Anfield.

And with the possibility of Everton Football Club moving to Bramley-Moore Dock, there are also discussions in progress about the future of Goodison Park.

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Mr Hont is confidant in Foundations’ ability to deliver on its ambitions. Liverpool City Council, where he was the cabinet member for housing until May, had ‘quite a successful programme of partnership with builders and partnerships with landlords to make a difference in the city,’ he told LGN. However, Foundations ‘enables us to go up a step, to increase the scale of what we can do.’

There are no councillors on the company’s board. This was a deliberate decision. ‘Not having councillors on the board enables Foundations to take a strategic view of the city,’ he explains. They will not, in other words, be pressured to concentrate on areas they have a political interest in. His past experience as a councillor means, however, that he has extensive knowledge of Liverpool’s housing challenges. ‘I would not claim to be a housing professional,’ he says. ‘But what I can bring, and what other

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members of the board can bring, is a strategic vision, a view of what the city needs.’

The launch of Foundations is a response to a national housing crisis. So, what can Westminster do to help? Mr Hont says that more funding would be helpful but isn’t the most crucial point.

What he wants is more consistency from the centre. ‘The biggest problems in housing across the country is that we have had more housing ministers than you can shake a stick at and housing policy nationally seems to change at the whim of those ministers,’ he explains.

Flexibility to allow local areas to address their specific housing issues is also essential, says Mr Hont. ‘We know our cities. We know Liverpool, Sheffield knows Sheffield, and Manchester knows Manchester. We know what’s needed. It’s about Governments helping us to deliver it and giving us the space and consistency to do that.’ n

December 2018

News feature

Shopping for retail sites James Duncan explains why investing in retail sites could help councils diversify their income streams.

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s if the news isn’t uncertain enough at the moment, it seems that the retail sector continues to be buffeted by a gloomy outlook. The high street is under threat from all directions; the chancellor wants to make it easier to convert shops into homes; shopping centres are on their last legs; and major retail landlords are cutting their exposure to the sector and selling assets.

And yet councils are continuing to invest in retail sites. Over the last five years, local authorities have spent £3.8bn on commercial property with retail accounting for over a third of this. Taken at face value, this appears puzzling.

However, it’s not as misguided as it may sound, particularly when austerity has bitten.

And, if councils take an intelligent approach to maximising the use of land and bolstering retail assets to diversify income, they – and their constituents – will reap the benefits.

The headlines may suggest otherwise, but investing in retail presents a host of opportunities for the savvy investor. Last year, the proportion of retail sales made online was 16% – but that still leaves 84% and billions of pounds being spent in shops. Certain types of retail, for example outof-town-retail parks, are seeing an investment renaissance as they continue to attract local authorities and funds that spot their potential.

The keys to profitability have changed and prime placement in a town centre is no longer necessary for success. With many councils putting the squeeze on parking provision by selling or further limiting spaces, shoppers are finding it increasingly difficult to visit their high street.

A retailer’s location, while still a key comparator, is increasingly becoming less important to the overall offer for the new consumer.

The sector is moving towards more experience-based retail and looking for space to include desirable and different in-store concessions. And, as major draws for shoppers, strategic anchor tenants, such as discount supermarkets, continue to play a significant role in the success of sites. These often require large units and so cannot be accommodated on the high street. As such, retail parks offer the

December 2018

convenience and accessibility that town centres do not – often with free parking to boot.

It’s this availability of space that makes outof-town sites attractive investment options, offering a means to boost income streams.

There is still value to found in the sector; councils just need to understand the best way to secure it.

Retail isn’t just retail anymore – and councils should take note. To maximise the use of land and boost values, major retail landlords have been investing in plans to develop build-torent (BTR) homes on their flagship retail sites.

By repositioning these assets, landowners can boost and diversify income streams, helping to deliver returns that are sustainable over the long-term.

We are all well aware that we are in the midst of a nationwide housing crisis; retail sites can help address this. Aviva Investors estimates that 170,000 new homes could be built on the 24 million square feet of land currently occupied by

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retail parks and identified as suitable for mixeduse developments.

BTR housing is now better understood by local authorities which are setting up development and housing investment arms to stimulate housebuilding and provide future income for councils. The sector represents a long-term and stable mixed tenure asset class that is continuing to grow in popularity. BTR is particularly popular with young professionals and families; exactly the sort of cohort retail landlords need to attract, providing ready-made footfall for shops on these mixed-use sites.

Retail is facing severe challenges, but it would be a mistake to dismiss it as a viable investment option. Done intelligently, councils can reap economic rewards allowing them to protect frontline services and boost housing supply – that’s hard to argue with. n James Duncan is a partner in the real estate team and head of BTR at Winckworth Sherwood

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Those who should benefit from funded projects include: • Young people not in education, training or work, particularly where there are networks to help already in place • Long-term unemployed (for longer than 12 months) • Service leavers (who left military service at least a year ago) • Women wishing to join construction • Full-time learners (particularly those studying for construction and built environment diplomas).

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In association with

Supporting victims of d More than a year after the Government promised a domestic abuse bill, Neil Merrick explores what councils are currently doing to help protect victims.

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t is two years since Newcastle Council opened a purpose-built refuge for women who are victims of domestic abuse.

The refuge contains 14 flats for women and children and is part of an integrated domestic abuse service run by the council with independent charities.

Two years on, the service has received £600,000 from the Government - one of 63 projects to be granted money from a £22m fund operated by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Joyce McCarthy, Newcastle’s deputy leader, is pleased about the extra money. The refuge is a better option than bedsits in the voluntary sector, which is where the council generally placed victims of domestic abuse prior to 2016.

‘We want people to have the best accommodation so that they’re valued,’ she says.

But Cllr McCarthy is also acutely aware that the funding recognises what appears to be a growing problem - women, and sometimes men, coming forward to say they are suffering abuse at home.

The Government promised a domestic abuse bill nearly 18 months ago and has pledged to create a domestic abuse commissioner. Neither has yet come to fruition, despite a consultation earlier this year, with the bill apparently delayed

by Brexit.

In October, the House of Commons home affairs select committee recommended that providing refuges or other safe places should be a statutory duty on councils, alongside ringfenced national funding (though it did not say how much).

During 2016/17, 1.9 million people were victims of domestic abuse, according to the Crime Survey for England and Wales.

Cllr McCarthy says it would be ‘extremely helpful’ if providing protection was a statutory duty on councils as it would mean services

December 2018

were underpinned with adequate and ongoing funding.

The home affairs committee heard how austerity cuts have led to councils reducing or closing services for victims of domestic abuse. London Councils reported that about 64% of referrals to refuges in the capital are unsuccessful, while the charity Women’s Aid told MPs that 60% of referrals to its refuges are refused due to lack of bed spaces - equivalent to 94 women and 90 children every day.

Sian Hawkins, head of campaigns at Women’s Aid, an umbrella body for refuge providers, says increased reporting of domestic abuse may be down to greater public awareness and better police responses. But this increasingly means that demand outstrips supply.

While there are no precise figures, the Bureau of Investigative Journalism estimates about one

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in six women’s refuges have closed since 2010.

‘We know local authorities have huge budget cuts to contend with,’ says Hawkins. ‘Difficult decisions have to be taken at local level and in some cases that means domestic abuse services have been cut.’

Helen Jones, spokesperson for safeguarding at the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, says councils would welcome refuges and other safe places being made a statutory duty. ‘When local authorities are facing increasing pressure, it’s difficult to protect non-statutory services,’ she says. ‘Making it a statutory duty and having ring-fenced funding would help.’

Supporting victims of domestic abuse falls under a range of local government departments.

Less than five per cent of safeguarding enquiries carried out by adult social care departments

www.LocalGov.co.uk

News feature

f domestic abuse

“Difficult decisions have to be taken at local level and in some cases that means domestic abuse services have been cut.” relate to domestic abuse - mainly those affecting elderly people or people with disabilities.

Nor is it clear that refuges are always the best solution. Many councils, along with the Government, say it is often better to help people remain in their home, providing it is safe.

In Hampshire, the Making Safe Project coordinated by Hart District Council was another recent beneficiary of the MHCLG’s fund, receiving £1.3m. Without the injection funding,

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the project faced closure, says Kirsty Jenkins, Hart’s head of community services.

The project, involving 11 district councils and Hampshire County Council, tries to keep women out of refuges by increasing security in their homes through what is known as ‘target hardening’. Since 2014, it has supported 637 clients.

Councils work with the Blue Lamp Trust, a non-profit making body that provides home security and safety assistance to vulnerable people, with outreach workers carrying out risk assessments.

As a result, adds Jenkins, refuge spaces can be offered to women who require them most. The new funding will allow the project to be expanded into parts of Dorset. ‘It’s a well-thought out scheme and everybody is desperate to keep it alive,’ she adds.

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In November, the MHCLG issued new guidance on housing waiting lists. This urges councils to exempt from residency requirements people who are living in their district in a refuge or other safe temporary accommodation after escaping domestic abuse in another local authority area.

The new guidance is strongly welcomed by organisations such as Women’s Aid. ‘It’s important that anyone who has had to take the difficult decision to leave their home can easily access accommodation,’ says Sian Hawkins.

In addition to recommending the new statutory duty and ring-fenced funding, the select committee called for a review of welfare, including split universal credit payments within a household, and widening the role of the proposed commissioner to include all violence against women and girls It is unacceptable, said MPs, for women fleeing violence and other forms of abuse to be denied safety. While short-term funding must be provided to reduce the number of women turned away from refuges, the committee urged the government to create ‘a sustainable model that ensures the level of provision meets demand’.

In addition, says Joyce McCarthy, there is a need to address the causes of domestic violence, including poverty. Newcastle’s integrated service allows users to access a range of assistance, including outreach support if they remain at home. Independent domestic violence advisors are assigned to those at highest risk.

Delivered by the charities Thirteen Care and Support and Changing Lives, the service costs about £580,000 per year to run, but the bill to the local authority does not stop there. ‘ We know that increasing poverty is likely to increase incidents of domestic abuse,’ says Cllr McCarthy.

‘We’ve got more children coming into our core system because of domestic abuse in the home.’ n

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December 2018

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13/07/2018 16:24

Is bankruptcy an option?

Neil Merrick finds out what consequences a council may face if it is unable to provide statutory services or deliver a balanced budget.

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‘It’s a very broad power,’ he says. ‘Local authorities can go into receivership but it’s not equivalent to a private sector liquidation or receivership. Only parliament can dissolve a local authority.’

So, are we facing a scenario where councils no longer look like councils as we know them?

Jonathan Carr-West, chief executive of the Local Government Information Unit, says we are entering new territory when it comes to assessing the ability of councils to function and provide services.

‘Is there a point where a local authority is not a local authority in a meaningful sense?’ he says.

‘You can cut back to a bare statutory minimum. We don’t know what looks like, but it’s very grim. n

k

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and local government reorganisation, as is due to happen in Northamptonshire in 2020.

A council must continue to provide statutory services, including schools and adult care.

‘Northamptonshire has demonstrated that the stresses and strains are such that local authorities are going to struggle to provide anything beyond statutory services,’ says Goacher.

Serious consequences can stem from the Local Government Act 2003, which covers borrowing in relation to commercial activities.

Christian Wall, a financial consultant and former local authority officer, says the High Court may appoint a receiver if a council is on the point of defaulting over an interest payment, or principle payment, worth £10,000 or more, for two months or longer.

Not that this has ever happened. Mr Wall, director of PFM UK, an American-owned consultancy that advises local authorities over debt, stresses that the appointment of a receiver would not necessarily mean a council is insolvent.

It was in the United States that, five years ago, the City of Detroit filed for bankruptcy having run up liabilities of $19bn. In the UK, says Mr Wall, the receiver would have powers to collect money owed to the council, including council tax.

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an a local authority go bankrupt? With Northamptonshire having issued two section 114 notices and other councils warning they could run out of money, it would not be a huge surprise if this was a question on the lips of many councillors and officers.

The short answer is no. A council cannot go bankrupt in the same way as a private company or individual and may only be wound up by Parliament. Local authorities that run up debts as a result of commercial activities may still in theory encounter judges and receivers but, ultimately, they will not face the same consequences.

First and foremost, local authorities are required to set balanced budgets. A section 114 notice, issued under the Local Government Act 1988, is in effect a final warning - a statement informing councillors (and the public) that the council is entering ‘last chance saloon’ when it comes to expenditure.

Simon Goacher, head of local government at solicitors Weightmans, points out that section 114 notices, prohibiting councils from incurring further expenditure, are the first of four safety mechanisms.

In addition, auditors can issue advisory notices warning councils of the implications of not making cuts or savings. There are also the options of intervention by the secretary of state,

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Finance

December 2018

Legal

Roles and responsibilities Tiffany Cloynes and Martyn Davies explore how councils can best manage roles in local authority companies.

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he use of companies can give local authorities a range of useful opportunities, such as income generation, diverse ways of delivering services and access to additional resources. However, participation in companies should not be at the expense of local authorities fulfilling their roles as public bodies meeting the needs of their communities and should not compromise the ability of individual members and officers to fulfil their responsibilities.

Local authorities which participate in companies will need to nominate individuals to take roles such as company directors. Those individuals will be subject to directors’ duties under the Companies Act 2006 and will also be subject to codes of conduct and will have duties in their capacity as members and officers. This requires understanding of their different roles and careful balance of their duties.

If they achieve an appropriate balance, they will help their local authorities to use companies effectively. If they do not, they risk exposing themselves to sanctions and their local authorities to the risk of challenges over their decision-making.

Local authority officers and members need to take care over a range of issues when they are involved in companies.

These include: • Conflicts of interest. A company director will have a duty to act in the best interests of the company. It would be expected that on many occasions the interests of a company and a local authority participating in it would be compatible. However, directors should be alert to the possibility of conflicts between the company on which they serve and the local authority that nominated them and their own personal interests. They should take steps to avoid any such conflicts arising.

• Local authority decision making. Individuals involved in local authority companies must ensure that their company roles do not compromise their local authority’s potential to take reasonable decisions within its powers. Even if a decision-maker does

December 2018

not have a conflict of interests relating to a particular matter, he or she should consider whether their connection with the company might prevent them approaching a decision with an open mind. In that situation, the decision would be vulnerable to challenge for predetermination.

• Use of information. Local authority members and officers should be aware of the capacity in which they receive information from their local authorities and what this means for their use and disclosure of the information.

A lot of local authority information will be available to the public at large because local authorities are expected to be transparent and they have statutory obligations to disclose information on request. However, they have rights to withhold public access to some confidential information. In those circumstances, a local authority might make information available to particular members and officers but subject to particular constraints and restrictions.

Anyone who has access to information in such circumstances must ensure that they do not compromise the confidentiality of the information by disclosing it to persons within a company or to others outside the local authority.

• Compliance with codes of conduct.

Members and officers must not allow their roles in companies to cause them to act in breach of the codes of conduct of their local

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authorities when acting in the capacity of members and officers. They should also be aware that codes of conduct are subject to compliance with other legal obligations.

They could not use their obligations under the codes of conduct of their authorities as a justification for breaching company law.

These are examples of some of the common issues that arise when local authority member and officers take on roles in companies but there is potential for many issues to arise. Attention to the risks involved with the various issues should enable members and officers to achieve an appropriate balance between their roles. n Tiffany Cloynes is partner and Martyn Davies is senior associate at Geldards.

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IT & technology

Poverty and the digital divide Phil Walker explores how councils can help close the digital attainment gap for children living in poverty.

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he effects on children of living in poverty are malign and wide-reaching, but possibly the most damaging is the impact on their future. According to Department for Work and Pensions data, 30% of British children were living in poverty in 2016-17, a statistic that only scratches the surface of families trapped in a cycle of impoverishment that doesn’t just affect children’s health, but their literacy and communication skills as well.

A 2017 study by Education Data Lab found that children who are eligible for free school meals throughout their time in school see a drop in attainment of 8% in primary school, rising to 13% by the time they reach their GCSEs, when compared to children who have never been eligible. According to the report, attainment by this particular group of children – the long-term disadvantaged – is actually declining, despite the government’s introduction of the pupil premium.

Poorer children fall behind in schools due to a myriad of reasons, but for some it’s simply matter of resource. A study this year by uSwitch found that internet access is now required for about half of all homework set, with 69% of parents believing the internet is essential to their child’s education.

However, digital skills and access are at their lowest in the poorest households. Homes in the C2DE socio-economic categories show the lowest levels of home broadband use and device ownership in the country, according to the government’s 2015 Basic Digital Skills report. In fact, Ofcom statistics from this year show that working-age people in DE homes are three times as likely to not have access to the internet as others.

The subject of home internet access is not commonly addressed in local authorities’ digital strategies, where the focus is generally on the transformation of their own services and improving the digital skills of their residents.

However, with approximately one in 12 GCSE students without a permanent internet connection at home, it’s likely that 2-3 children

December 2018

“uSwitch found that internet access is now required for about half of all homework set, with 69% of parents believing the internet is essential to their child’s education.” in every classroom are struggling to complete the work asked of them as a result. Of course, schools and libraries do have PCs available for this reason, but research by NFU has found that children with regular internet access do significantly better in their GCSEs, improving their grades by up to 25%.

Of the major internet service providers, only BT has a dedicated package to help those on benefits or living in social housing to get basic internet access, but with a data cap of 12GB per month and penalties for using more, there is little incentive to make the most of the digital world.

Jake Berry, Conservative MP for Blackburn and Darwen, has argued that literacy, numeracy and aspiration could all be improved

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by enabling social landlords to provide free broadband access for their tenants.

This has begun to take shape, with Hyde Housing Association in London and Leeds City Council both trialling free internet for their social housing tenants in the last two years. In the Leeds trial, which was conducted in partnership with 6G Internet, 160 social housing residences were connected to free broadband, with approximately a third of residents going on to use it on a daily basis.

For private companies, the question here is how to deliver these services in a sustainable way - shareholders are unlikely to get excited at the idea of providing something for free.

In 2008, Bill Gates called on companies to develop solutions to social problems through ‘creative capitalism’, which is what we’re trying to do at 6G Internet.

Our answer is to dedicate 20% of our network to social causes, including free basic broadband for people living in social housing and an offer for families with children eligible for free school meals to access four hours of high speed, unlimited internet every day. Our hope is that this will help not just with school attainment, but provide an opportunity to access every positive aspect that being online provides. n Phil Walker is director of finance at 6G Internet

www.LocalGov.co.uk

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11/06/2018 16:27

8 16:27

Procurement & efficiency

Social value revolution Andy Preston explores how local government procurement has changed this year and how councils can meet updated procurement policy.

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s we move towards the end of an interesting but challenging year in local government, it’s plain to see that the focus has shifted in public sector procurement.

Since the June publication of the new National Procurement Strategy for Local Government in England, the emphasis on procurement with a social conscience has put community benefit at the centre of evolving strategies.

This was an evolution arguably set in motion back in 2013 with the enactment of the Public Service (Social Value) Act. The Act requires commissioners to consider the value added to society by each bidder in a tender; a requirement which was further expanded by the 2018 Strategy to specify that those wider values must not only exist but also be ‘explicitly evaluated’.

So, the pressure is on for local government procurement teams to get it right. Cabinet minister David Lidington’s announcement on 19 November that new social value contracts will ‘revolutionise government’ would certainly suggest a need for speed. His speech focused on the need to level the playing field for small businesses and social enterprises, lending further weight to the themes of the local strategy documents.

In turn, the procurement models already developed in the local arena will begin to shape central government’s processes for the years ahead. At first sight, it all adds up to a very different way of doing things – but what does it really mean for procurement teams on a practical level?

While the focus now rests heavily on community investment and social value, it’s important to recognise that cost and risk management cannot be left behind. Compliance too must be ‘delivered as a given’ according to Cllr Paul Betton’s foreword to the 2018 Strategy, and value for money remains front and centre.

Although new policies recognise the broad societal impact of procurement practices, they also have financial common-sense and risk-

www.LocalGov.co.uk

awareness at their core, with the formulation of new measures to spread spending across a greater number of smaller businesses no doubt hastened by the collapse of Carillion at the start of this year.

The demands on procurement teams are greater and more diverse than ever before.

Making supplier selections now requires teams to juggle all the traditional procurement considerations while also pushing for extra cost-savings in the face of austerity measures, making sure they have modern slavery policies and social value covered, and having one eye always on the ambition to spend £1 in every £3 with SMEs by 2020.

It’s not all bad news of course. While the transition to a different way of doing things will always present new obstacles to be overcome, the intention behind the updated procurement policy is strong and could create positive change for local government and local communities alike. The challenge rests with turning the spirit of the policy into tangible results.

On the most practical level, this means getting systems and processes in place that support the burgeoning relationships between small businesses and public procurement teams.

SMEs need tender processes to be simplified

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and streamlined; procurement teams need compliance claims to be vetted and capabilities verified.

Increasingly popular, Dynamic Purchasing Systems may hold one key to SME engagement and more innovative procurement practices.

Additionally, pre-qualification questionnaires and verification by trusted industry partners can reduce risk for procurement teams, as well as making it easier for them to reach SMEs, who in turn benefit from access to expert advice and a straightforward verification process that they complete just once - instead of once per tender.

Procurement platforms can be a significant support for procurement teams in helping them achieve their ambitions more easily. Access to prequalified suppliers and intuitive digital processes means that setting search criteria becomes easier, shortlisting becomes easier, compliance becomes easier and sourcing local suppliers becomes easier. And with internal resources ever-stretched, it’s more important than ever that industry adapts to support the ever-changing challenges of today’s procurement teams. n Andy Preston is head of public sector at Constructionline.

December 2018

Built environment

The drive for 100% Hackitt 100% Hackitt is a joint venture between the British Board of Agrément and Local Authority Building Control.

Here, Lorna Stimpson (pictured in the middle) outlines what the initiative is about, why it is important and how local government staff can get involved.

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ccording to Lord Porter, chair of the Local Government Association, building control is ‘intrinsic to doing what councils do’, but 30 years of deregulation, competition, red tape and self-certification have led to a system that is low cost and low compliance, with private providers stepping in where the LABC prefers not to tread.

This was nowhere more evident than a recent request to a regional public sector building control team to tender for building control services on a £60m mixed-use development of three tower blocks. The developer stipulated 10 inspections for the entire project, a service level LABC was neither prepared to quote for nor deliver as it was a complex project with heightened fire risk, mixing homes, retail and commercial activities. The idea that just a few thousand pounds for building control services would be adequate was a ludicrous and dangerous assumption by the developer.

The private sector has, no doubt, stepped in and signed up to deliver the service requested for this scheme. And this is one of the reasons LABC has, in conjunction with the British Board of Agrement, launched the 100% Hackitt initiative aimed at encouraging the adoption of all recommendations detailed in Dame Judith’s report, including the establishment of a Joint Competent Authority.

We want a modern and safe system, not one where clients can choose how much regulation they are willing to pay for.

Through 100% Hackitt, we and the BBA aim to unite influential individuals and organisations that support the systemic industry change proposed by Dame Judith. In addition to keeping pressure on ministers to adopt all 53 Hackitt

December 2018

recommendations it will provide opportunities for discussion of cross-disciplinary issues and the sharing of best practice. 100% Hackitt was formally launched in Westminster to more than 70 pan-industry and political representatives.

Dame Judith delivered a key note speech and other speakers included Clive Betts MP (LGA vice president), Emma Dent-Coad (MP for Kensington) and Sir David Amess (chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Fire Safety Rescue Group/MP for Southend West).

For local government, 100% Hackitt is a real opportunity to shape the future of construction, re-establishing the public sector ethos at the heart of government decision-making and preparing for additional responsibilities for local building control teams through the proposed Joint Competent Authority. To sign up to the initiative or find out more see www.100-Hackitt. co.uk The BBA is backing the initiative because, in-part, it believes the Hackitt report delivers a coherent way in which only contractors of

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good standing can bid for contracts with local authority and social housing providers.

BBA chief Executive Claire-Curtis Thomas is on record as stating that it ‘didn’t hesitate to support’ when LABC said it wanted to see 100% of the Hackitt recommendations implemented.

The issue is close to the BBA’s heart. Four years ago it began looking into the installation of insulation products and became very concerned at its findings.

Further examination and discussions with local authorities and housing associations revealed the impact procurement practices were having on the sector; major contractors were winning contracts and then returning to building product manufacturers and installers, who had won the work in good faith, to push for lower prices. Therefore improving the building regulations has to go hand-in-hand with addressing procurement practices. n Lorna Stimpson is deputy managing director of LABC.

www.LocalGov.co.uk

The rebirth of local authority planning?

Does the publication of Letwin’s final report into tackling the housing crisis mean councils will take a more proactive role in development? Neil Merrick investigates.

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ot only does Britain build houses too slowly, but it generally builds too many of the same type.

That is the main conclusion of a study into ‘build out’ rates (the rate at which homes are built once planning permission is granted)

by Tory MP and former cabinet minister Sir Oliver Letwin.

Letwin’s final report, published on the same day as the Budget, calls on developers to build more social and affordable housing alongside properties for sale at market prices. Crucially, it also calls for local authorities to play a key role in ensuring there is greater

December 2018

diversity on large construction sites.

So, does this signal the rebirth of local authority planning, with councils able to flex their muscles when it comes to housebuilding?

Richard Blyth, head of policy at the Royal Town Planning Institute, says the report may signal a revival of councils’ creative planning role.

‘It seems to be part of a broader rethink of total reliance on the market to solve local problems,’ he says.

Others are equally enthusiastic, while acknowledging that the government has yet to accept Letwin’s recommendations. Hugh

“Councils should be able to voice objections to homogenous schemes more strongly and suggest ways to make them mixed tenure.”

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Ellis, chief executive of the Town and Country Planning Association, wishes the review had gone further and tackled questions such as how much landowners make from selling sites.

But he is pleased that the potential of councils is being recognised. ‘If we want to solve the housing crisis and increase quality, then local government is the answer,’ says Ellis The Letwin review, which focuses on sites with more than 1,500 homes in southeast England, was commissioned by the Government in 2017. It clears developers of deliberate ‘land banking’ but

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Built environment

says the fact they generally build similar or identical properties that take time to sell is the main reason construction takes so long. Among Letwin’s recommendations are: • developers to be required to build different types of home, including more social or affordable housing • a national expert committee to advise councils on the types of property that might be offered on large sites and arbitrate over disputes • giving local authorities in areas with high housing demand the power to identify land that can only be developed as a single large site • giving councils greater power to set up local development companies

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Ministers will respond to the review early in 2019. Any changes could, in theory, be brought in through secondary legislation rather than requiring new law.

Barry Wood, leader of Cherwell District Council in Oxfordshire, would like to see greater clarity over what councils can potentially do, as well as the number of social or affordable homes that should be built.

‘The Government needs to be as clear as it can be as to what it sees the role of councils in terms of delivering well balanced communities,’ he says.

In theory, adds Cllr Wood, Letwin should lead to stronger planning departments. But at the same time, the fact many are not in the best of health could be a problem.

A review chaired by former housing minister Nick Raynsford, published in November by the TCPA, found widespread dissatisfaction with the planning system.

Many professional planners, it says, are ‘trapped in a process-driven treadmill’ rather than being able to develop visionary solutions.

While Letwin flags up shortages of bricklayers and other skilled labour, his review has less to say about recruitment of strategic planners. ‘Planning is on its knees in local government,’ says Hugh Ellis. ‘The service can’t suddenly be turned back on.’

Raynsford’s conclusions are in line with the findings of a survey carried out earlier this year by the RTPI. This revealed that 10% of local authorities do not have a postholder responsible for planning, while just 23% have a head of planning who reports directly to the chief executive.

But how do house builders feel about Letwin? Andrew Whitaker, planning director at the Home Builders Federation, says developers are happy to see

councils more involved in planning, but that does not mean them taking control.

‘The quicker you can turn a site around, the more return you’ve got to invest in more sites,’ he says.

‘That is in the interests of builders as much as it’s in the interests of local authorities.’

With the Government having announced the lifting of caps that limited borrowing through the housing revenue account (HRA), the next few years could see local authorities not just calling for more social housing but building it themselves.

Developers, says Mr Whitaker, would welcome the arrival of ‘more players in the game’ but says that any decision to build more social housing is likely to affect land values, and require more government subsidy or alternative funding. ‘Somebody has to pay,’ he says.

The National Federation of Builders, which represents smaller builders, is concerned by Letwin’s focus on large construction sites and large developers.

Rico Wojtulewicz, its senior policy adviser, recognises that planning departments are underfunded but says councils could be more robust in the way sites are allocated.

‘If local authorities were a bit more creative and worked with a range of landowners and developers, they would get a better mix of housing,’ he says.

Confusion surrounds Letwin’s proposal for an expert committee to advise councils and arbitrate in disputes with builders. How will this affect the role of the planning inspectorate, and is it likely to mean more or fewer applications going to appeal?

Andrew Whitaker says any committee would need to take account of local context and recognise why decisions were

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taken when they arbitrate between planners and builders. ‘It’s difficult to say what weight planning inspectors will give to the opinions of this group of people,’ he adds.

Ideally, says Richard Blyth, there should be no need for appeals if planners get decisions right in the first place.

Overall, he adds, local authorities are being offered a ‘turn in the driving seat’, though some may be more enthusiastic than others about taking on a more pro-active development role.

And there is no guarantee that residents will support large developments because they include social or affordable homes.

But providing Letwin receives government backing, councils should be able to voice objections to homogenous schemes more strongly and suggest ways to make them mixed tenure.

‘It’s an exciting opportunity but there is a lot of work to do around how that might look,’ says Mr Blyth. n

According to a survey by the RTPI, only 17% of councils have the head of planning as part of their top management team.

83% of councils put planning two or three tiers down from the chief executive.

10% of local authorities do not have a postholder responsible for planning.

December 2018

Green building & energy efficiency

‘Smart buildings’ as service

Mark Whitehead outlines a new report explaining what ‘smart buildings’ are – and how councils can pay for them.

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ublic bodies including councils are under pressure to cut costs and improve the services they provide. One way some are looking to do this is by harnessing the latest technology to make their buildings ‘smart’.

The costs of converting buildings could be a problem, but leaders in the field are talking about using the savings produced by reduced energy costs to enable the upgrade of existing assets. A report by Siemens Financial Services outlines how ‘smart buildings as a service’ could make this happen.

A smart building, according to Smart Start for Smart Buildings, is one that uses advanced technology to achieve a range of benefits.

Until recently, it explains, functions such as fire protection, climate control, ventilation, lighting and video surveillance had to be controlled separately. Now, the latest technology means they can be integrated into a single platform.

The new generation of buildings, the report explains, could save around 15% to 25% on energy costs, and with non-domestic buildings estimated to be responsible for between 10% and 15% of carbon emissions, reducing their energy consumption could help make urban environments healthier and more attractive.

December 2018

Further, because of the ‘intelligent infrastructure’ enabled by digitalisation, they could also improve the security and comfort of their users and reduce the cost of equipment installation, operations and service.

Data from smart building systems, according to their advocates, gives a facility’s infrastructure a ‘brain and a voice’ that can think for itself and maintain a balance between competing interests such as reducing energy use and keeping occupants comfortable.

Air-quality monitors, traffic tracking and other smart technologies mounted on the building allow it to measure, record and report building system efficiency.

But understanding the benefits of smart buildings is one thing, according to Siemens.

Finding an affordable way to convert existing buildings in these times of tight finances, is another.

With budgets under pressure, it may be assumed that investment in smart building conversion is unachievable. However, Siemens say, there is a way of allowing organisations to capitalise on the benefits of smart buildings at low or zero cost.

This can be achieved, says Siemens, by ‘smart buildings as a service’. This means the solutions provider agrees a contract with the owner to convert the building over a predetermined period, after which the owner benefits from continuing reduced energy consumption along with the other added benefits.

The building owner does not have to put capital at risk and has conserved their own

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funds for strategically important development activities – whether in commercial growth or improved public services.

Like other areas in which the ‘servitisation’ model is well established – in other areas of facilities management or in IT, for example – ‘smart buildings as a service’ frees the owner from making upfront investment while reaping the benefits of the latest cutting-edge technology.

The ultimate vision is that with advanced interactive technology buildings will be able to adapt to the needs of their users in real time. This could mean, for example, that a meeting room would automatically provide the resources needed for participants when they arrive including audio-visual aids and internet connections.

The building itself would do the thinking and preparation instead of fallible humans, basing its decisions on what has learned from past behaviours.

The industry is optimistic about the future of smart building techniques, with sales of the technology predicted to grow by about 30% a year. But it doesn’t stop with individual buildings: the talk is of ‘smart cities’ in which entire systems – energy, water, transport, communications – can be linked up through the ‘internet of things’ to make huge savings and massively increase convenience for residents.

In the meantime some relatively simple solutions described in the Siemens report could offer a way of converting buildings to smart technology in an affordable way. n

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Advertorial

The solar race is on as April deadline approaches

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pril 2019 will go down in history for many reasons. Not only is it likely to mark the start of some major parliamentary changes, it will also signal the end of one of the government’s flagship renewable incentive schemes – the feed in tariffs (FITs).

Launched back in 2010, the feed in tariffs were introduced to encourage the take up of small-scale renewable technologies, such as solar. And it worked! According to a report by the Solar Trade Association, 85% of local authorities now own solar panels, along with tens of thousands of home owners and businesses across the UK. Being silent to run, low maintenance and able to be fitted onto roofs or into the ground, it is no surprise that solar has grown to become the most popular renewable technology in the world.

The government’s feed in tariffs have helped drive this popularity, making solar a very attractive proposition, thanks to the healthy, long-term financial returns that can be achieved. Plus of course, the savings that can be made on energy bills.

Qualifying for FITs payments is never guaranteed but any solar scheme has the potential to receive money for both the electricity generated, and any surplus power that is exported back to the grid. The payments are index linked and locked in for 20 years.

However, the window of opportunity to capitalise on these payments is short. The scheme closes to new entrants on 31 March 2019.

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Solar projects under 50kW will need to be completed ahead of this deadline, to be eligible for FITs payments. For projects larger than 50kW the rules are slightly different. They can seek pre-accreditation as long as the works are then finished within a specific timeframe and the installation falls within the limits of the deployment caps.

For any local authority considering installing solar panels, the financial case for taking immediate action is therefore strong. Especially with local government needing to play a central role in helping the country meet its binding carbon reduction targets.

Climate change at a local authority level

While some progress has been made in reducing the country’s emissions and public awareness has dramatically increased, there is still a long way to go.

A recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has issued a stark warning that rapid action needs to be taken, if we are to avoid causing irreversible damage to the planet. Against this backdrop, central government has revealed a wish for the UK to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050 and public backing for environmental issues has reached a record high – all of which means the pressure is now on at a local authority level.

Reducing emissions, improving air quality and aiding the transition towards a smart energy system are all vital parts of the climate change puzzle, and councils will need to play

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a significant role, if these ambitions are to be realised.

But with budgets under pressure and so many contrasting claims and promises made within the context of renewable technologies, many council leaders may be unsure about the best way to proceed.

However, while renewables may traditionally have been regarded as high risk, they are increasingly been shown to be a strategic longterm investment that can prove valuable on many levels.

Indeed, since Anesco was founded in 2010 the landscape has evolved substantially. We are now at a point where we are delivering 5% preferred returns for the local authorities we work with and can provide the comprehensive data needed to drive forward the business case for such investments.

Whether it’s rooftop or ground mount solar installations, the use of battery storage units, EV charging infrastructure or the implementation of energy efficiency measures in council-owned buildings, there are multiple opportunities.

And the financial case for capitalising on them has never been stronger.

What we strongly believe is that the path to low carbon, renewable infrastructure is one that sees renewables driving growth and providing vital income for local authorities, whilst at the same time delivering the low carbon future that is essential for future generations. n Steve Shine is executive chairman at Anesco (www.anesco.co.uk).

December 2018

Green building & energy efficiency

Financing the low carbon economy

George Matthew explains what funding is available to enable local authorities to deliver heat networks.

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he Government recently launched its annual Green GB Week to highlight the opportunities clean growth offers the UK and raise understanding of how business and the public can contribute to tackling climate change. A key theme of the week was financing the low carbon economy and clean growth. Heat networks are expected to be at the forefront of this growth.

The Government has a legally binding commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% of 1990 levels by 2050. Heat currently accounts for around 18% of the UK’s existing greenhouse gas emissions (by way of comparison, power is around 21% and transport is 24%). Meeting such challenging climate change targets will therefore require complete or near-complete decarbonisation of heat.

Heat networks, as proven technologies for providing lower carbon heat to domestic and commercial customers, have the potential to

December 2018

play a key role in the long term decarbonisation of heating, and local authorities can contribute significantly to their success in this emerging sector.

Local authorities’ involvement, particularly as a principal driver in the development stages of a project, can help realise the many benefits of heat networks, while also delivering jobs and growth.

Many local authorities may recognise the potential benefits of developing a heat network, but lack the expertise and/or finance required to pursue such ambitious schemes.

The Government, therefore, is providing support to help facilitate the delivery of heat networks:

Heat Networks Delivery Unit (HNDU) Established in 2013, the HNDU seeks to address the obstacles local authorities face when considering developing heat networks by providing grant funding and guidance on project development. Since its inception, HNDU has run seven funding rounds – awarding £17m in total – and is currently running Round 8. Over 200 unique projects have so far been supported across 140 local authorities.

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Heat Networks Investment Project (HNIP): Launched by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) on the 16 October 2018, HNIP is a major Government investment project which will see £320m of capital funding made available for the development of heat network projects. The funding, made up of a combination of grants and loans, will be available from April 2019 and is offered as ‘gap funding’.

Local authorities are encouraged to apply for the funding for a period of up to three years and it is hoped that the scheme will leverage around £1bn of private sector and other investment to support the commercialisation and construction of heat networks.

Published Guidance BEIS have also commissioned various pieces of guidance relating to heat networks. As recently as August this year the following were published with a view to guiding local authorities (and others) on various aspects of heat networks. n George Matthew is a solicitor, projects & procurement, at Womble Bond Dickinson.

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Advertorial

GreenBlue Urban – Beyond the Tree Pit

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or over 25 years the GreenBlue team have endeavoured to combine the fundamentals of tree pit design with the sustainable urban drainage and air quality agenda. From root management and soil support systems to our holistic Arborflow SuDs tree pit system we have a solution that will enable local authorities to integrate urban trees into the most complex of hard landscaping projects. Most importantly we want to bring highways teams along for the journey and our load bearing modular systems can be utilised as traffic calming build outs whilst also attenuating storm water – what’s not to like?!

Our in-house design team and qualified urban planner provide so much more than just technical product focused guidance. We offer full onsite support during installation’s enabling contractors to learn first-hand how quick and easy tree pits are to install.

We are enthusiastic partners in two European projects – Water Resilient Cities Interreg 2Seas and Cool Towns Interreg 2Seas.

We also have a wealth of experience working to develop model guidance and policies for local authorities across the UK and beyond.

Our complimentary CPD service for local authorities is a bespoke and personalised service to suit the specific configuration of planning teams. We engage planners, highways engineers and landscape teams to facilitate a broad and multidisciplinary approach to integrating trees across a range of policy areas.

A suite of resources and guidance are provided online including video’s case studies and CAD drawings, provide ongoing webinars and podcast interviews so that local authorities can be sure they are getting the most up to date information from across the green infrastructure and SUDs industries. n

CASE STUDY: The Northwood Hills project received £1.3 million investment from the GLA and £461,000 match funding from Hillingdon Council. The high street in Northwood Hills has been restored as a gateway to north-west London’s unique green spaces and heritage. Shop fronts and public spaces have been rejuvenated to make the centre more attractive and encourage local people to make better use of it.

The Northwood Hills project delivered a comprehensive public space scheme which has rejuvenated the town centre including a series of improvements to roads and transportation arrangements. Prior to development many shops were vacant – within a year there was a waiting list.

Joel Street has been resurfaced and the parking bays redesigned to allow safer entry and exit onto the high street. A new central boulevard has been introduced which allows for safer crossing and it has been planted with 35

www.LocalGov.co.uk

carpinus betulus frans fontain trees to provide an attractive feature.

Sirous Ordoubadi of Hillingdon Council quantified that “the central boulevard has made the area attractive, fashionable and environmentally friendly for residents and visitors of Northwood Hills Town Centre. Initial concerns and challenges were overcome from the advice of GreenBlue Urban.”

GBU were pleased to provide an ArborSystem package to include StrataCells 30, Arborvents, RootDirectors, Geonet, Deadman AnchorSystems, & Precast Arboresin – the results speak for themselves!

Continued research, development and innovation and best practice methods qualify GreenBlue as the global leader in assisting trees in their battle to establish in urban spaces.

With UK onsite manufacturing using 100% recycled materials GreenBlue have con-

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tributed to over 405,000 trees to flourish world-wide providing long term tree canopy for many years to come.

To discover more on our ground-breaking products visit www.greenblue.com Enquiries@greenblueurban.com +44 1580 830 800

December 2018

Using your roof to control energy bills John Davidson discusses how a Solar PV system on a Power Purchase Agreement can save local authorities thousands of pounds every year.

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e’ve come to expect our energy bills to rise on average by 7-10% in any year, but there’s been a 20% increase in wholesale energy costs this year, which means our energy bills have risen sharply.

Harsh weather conditions in 2018 have been partly to blame, leaving gas stores depleted and reducing gas production which, in turn, pushed prices up. And, as electricity prices are closely linked to gas costs - the UK is dependent on gas to power electricity generators – we all took the hit. But the weather is not always the reason behind price hikes, yet we just take the hit every year and factor in ever-higher energy prices in our budgets.

We just don’t need to because we have options, and they’re not only better for the environment because they use solar energy, they’re free to implement too.

Remember solar photo voltaic (PV) panels?

The rush by both business owners and

December 2018

homeowners to take advantage of the Feedin Tariffs (FiT), a scheme launched by the government in 2010, was frantic, until the FiT rate fell, and the obstacle of Green Deal compliance criteria grew. But with or without the FiT, solar PV remains the only way to reduce energy bills (unless you happen to own a state-of-the art smart building).

The option that’s open to any and all local authorities with an appropriate roof is to install a Solar PV system on a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). A PPA should not be confused with FiTs or any government scheme, this is purely a private enterprise providing organisations with both immediate and long term financial benefits.

They’re immediate as the cost of installation is free and your electricity bills will go down as you’re generating some of the energy you’d normally pay your utility supplier for, and they’re long term as the PPA can last for around 20-25 years.

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Doncaster Rovers FC: Doncaster Rovers FC already had solar PV installed in some areas of club, so the PPA had to take the complex legal ownership into account from the outset.

In this case the existing self-owned system was brought into the PPA and a discounted rate, which was 25% cheaper than their regular energy supplier, negotiated.

• System Size: 178.41kWp • Panel model: Hanwha QCells • Inverter model: Solis • Annual output:162,000 kWh • Annual CO2 Savings: 56,802 kg

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Green building & energy efficiency

rating with no outlay and achieve compliance.

It’s something to think about.

Currently batteries aren’t available as part of a PPA for storing generated electricity, which means any electricity generated during the day and not used is wasted. With a battery storage system you would have protection against power cuts and, depending on how much is stored, potentially a charging facility for electric cars.

While prices and the hours of daylight fluctuate, the one constant of a Solar PPA is the benefit: there are no upfront costs or ongoing service fees involved, there’s no payback period to take into consideration, which means savings start immediately. Importantly, in an age where the pressure on budgets has never been greater, these savings can be reallocated to other areas where they can do most good.

It’s not often you can honestly say ‘this is a winwin situation’ but this is a win-win situation. n John Davidson is managing director of Eco-energi.

How the process works: • Onsite electricity consumption is obtained from the client’s utility company and this will help the installation company determine the optimum size system for the building.

• Authority from the District Network operator (DNO) to connect the solar PV system to the grid is sought and received.

Here’s how it works. Usually there are three parties involved: one to finance the installation, one to design, install and maintain the solar PV system, and you/property owner/tenant, who buys the electricity from them at a discounted rate. This rate is typically far lower than the current retail tariff from your utility supplier but, and this is where a Solar PPA comes into its own, the price is capped by the rate of inflation, so it can never spiral out of control. If you sell the building during the course of the PPA, the agreement passes on to the new owner.

If your electricity bill in 2018 is £30K, and we know that prices are likely to rise by around 10% each year, that bill could double by 2028 and quadruple by 2038 to £120k. With a solar PPA, where the projected increases are 2-4%, the same £30k bill would only be approximately £60k by 2038. This would be a very significant saving over 20 years. And, if you have more than one building, the savings could be phenomenal.

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• Structural survey is conducted to ensure the building can accommodate the system.

• If planning consents are needed, this should be undertaken by the installation company.

• A design is prepared, together with an estimate of the annual electricity savings over the period of the agreement.

• The solar PV system is installed and commissioned.

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) for domestic and commercial buildings became law in April 2018, which means if the EPC of a building is currently F or G, its lease cannot be renewed or a new lease granted to a new tenant. The installation of solar panels, as part of a PPA, could improve a building’s EPC

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• The system is monitored by the installation company to ensure the forecast savings are achieved.

• Business owner has 24/7 access to a remote monitoring system to check on the system’s performance.

December 2018

Green building & energy efficiency

Future-proofing energy systems LGN finds out how councils can ensure their energy systems are prepared to cope with seasonal changes.

T

he UK has experienced a year of seasonal changes, facing both very cold and hot weather patterns within the last twelve months. In March, the ‘Beast from the East’ swept the country with blizzards and freezing temperatures. In comparison, the summer saw us basking in a heatwave, bringing with it sweltering work and learning environments.

Such fluctuations in weather can have cumulative effects on energy management for local authorities, placing greater demand on the capacity of building technologies such as heating, cooling and ventilation.

During very cold periods, buildings take longer to heat up efficiently and users typically raise heating temperatures, placing added pressure on boiler components, particularly after a summer season when they are not needed as much. Similarly, as condensing boilers operate best at part load, their performance may not always be optimal when operating at maximum capacity. By contrast, spells of very hot weather can overwhelm cooling systems.

This can result in uncomfortable working environments, particularly for pupils and staff, with less efficient cooling capability.

Amplified use of technologies also has financial implications for councils, increasing energy bills, particularly if older, less efficient technologies are concerned, as these require longer operating hours to achieve desired temperatures.

Councils have many opportunities to ensure their energy systems are prepared to cope with seasonal changes and avoid high energy bills.

One way is to look at upgrading old systems such as outdated boilers, to more modern efficient technologies. With newer, less vulnerable components, upgrades effectively reduce energy consumption and associated bills, while reducing maintenance requirements.

During colder spells, the upgrades allow public buildings like schools to be heated to a desired temperature more efficiently whilst using less fuel.

December 2018

Building insulation, draught proofing and glazing can also reduce reliance on heating and cooling systems, retaining heat during severe cold weather, while simultaneously reducing cooling demand in poorly insulated, airconditioned buildings. Thermal storage systems are a further example of how the demand can be reduced on heating and cooling systems during times of high usage.

Installing Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) with intelligent controls, like weather compensation and minimum temperature settings, enable heating systems to react ahead of temperature changes, automatically increasing heating when cold spells are expected.

BEMS are particularly useful for local authorities, as they enable a range of technologies - including lighting, cooling and heating - to be controlled for multiple buildings from one single location. This streamlines resources and ensures systems are only used when required, reducing costs and preventing some areas from being warmer or colder than others. By closely monitoring systems, BEMS provide councils with useful statistics to see

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LGN 32

where they can reduce energy consumption.

During warmer periods, upgrading cooling plants to more efficient models, or replacing air conditioning with evaporative cooling, can effectively reduce energy consumption.

Free cooling systems, which take advantage of favourable weather conditions to enable refrigeration plants to be shut down for long periods, save significant amounts of energy and decrease carbon emissions.

The use of heat recovery in ventilation systems, which sees ventilation air pre-heated or pre-cooled by room air, is another option for councils looking to increase system efficiency at minimal cost. These systems reduce the effort needed by boilers or cooling plants to maintain correct internal temperatures.

While the replacement of technologies may require an upfront investment, newer models are able to run more effectively at a lower cost and are more resilient, leading to fewer maintenance costs. These benefits are key during periods of cold weather, where there is a greater need for heated spaces over extended periods. In addition, new, more efficient technologies are developed with weather fluctuations in mind.

The benefits of upgrades are clear; however, financial barriers can often prevent energy upgrades from being implemented.

Fortunately, funding is available from notfor-profit, government funded organisation Salix Finance, which provides 100% interestfree loans to public sector energy efficiency projects, to help with these obstacles. Visit www.salixfinance.co.uk for further details. n

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Public realm

TER AY

8 14:21

The risk of pipe and cable strikes Richard Broome draws on data from the company’s recent Digging Up Britain report to highlight how common a problem asset strikes and looks at what local government should be doing to stop them from happening.

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he accidental striking of an electrical cable or gas pipeline has major implications for local authorities – damaging infrastructure, disrupting services, undermining reputation and potentially causing life-changing injuries to workers.

Scale of the Work It has been widely estimated that more than four million excavations take place across Great Britain each year. In 2017, only 2.25 million of these involved a thorough search for pipes and cables before the work commenced. This means that 44% did so without detailed examination for existing underground assets. This suggests critical utility infrastructure is at constant risk of being accidentally damaged.

So, how big a problem is this for local authorities? Well, there is currently more than 1.5 million km of underground infrastructure already in situ. A considerable amount is owned by local government, yet less than one percent of councils make their asset information available for people searching on resources like LSBUD’s asset search facility. Due to the lack of information made available by local authorities, every time a spade or digger bucket hits the ground, there is a significant chance of an asset being hit.

Reality of Strikes It is a stark fact that there are entirely preventable strikes happening each year, meaning we are seeing avoidable injuries, asset damage and financial losses, all because underground assets

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have not been registered. So, just how big an issue are pipe and cable strikes?

Our report gauged the scale of the problem by reviewing the level of electrical cable and gas pipeline strikes that are reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) each year. Although awareness around the subject of asset strikes is improving, the sheer scale of construction work taking place means there are still high levels of

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incidents and this problem is growing fast. For instance, the number of ‘safety related electrical incidents’ reported in 2012/13 was 162, whereas the incidents reported in 2016/17 was up to 1,244. This is an increase of 668% over five years, doubling in the last year alone.

Reported strikes to gas pipelines are falling, but still managed to clock up 1,264 in the last year. It is important to remember that these

December 2018

Public realm

numbers are for ‘reported’ incidents, so they do not factor in the significant volume of incidents not brought to the HSE’s attention.

Impact of Strikes The implications of a strike are evident on both an individual and organisational basis and will heavily depend on the level of strike severity.

The safety of workers should always be the number one priority, no matter the financial ramifications. Strikes whilst digging can cause serious injuries, or in the most severe cases, fatalities. In the five year period between 2012 and 2017, the HSE reported 318 injuries and fatalities caused by underground electrical cable strikes. Again, this is only the number that was reported to the HSE, so it is likely that many more strikes went unreported.

When focusing on gas pipeline strikes, it is easy to see why they are likely to cause more widespread harm. One example often used to reiterate the importance of asset searches is a near miss in Birmingham from 2005. A subcontractor was undertaking an everyday connection to the gas network in a densely populated area that was close to Spaghetti Junction. The subcontractor mistook a 12” multifuel pipeline for a 6” gas pipeline, so when drilling started the contractors were unaware that they were drilling into a pipe with petrol running through it at very high pressure. Thanks to a regular patrol by the pipeline technicians, a strike was avoided by millimetres, but it would have been Britain’s most extreme fuel pipe incident if work had continued for a matter of minutes longer.

In addition to health and safety there is the financial impact of strikes to local government, which can be significant, with each ‘hit’ needing repair work. This not only costs money, but also means that the pipe or cable will need to be removed from action whilst it is repaired, disrupting services in the process. The potential ramifications for local businesses or schools if a utility pipe is struck could be enormous.

You only need to consider a school having to temporarily rehouse pupils or even close while work is completed, with a knock on effect on working parents to appreciate that no council wants this situation to arise. Similarly, imagine the impact on a local high street in terms of retail sales lost and customer and traffic disruption, if a utility is hit. That is not to mention the myriad of other micro-businesses whose livelihoods depend on a smooth running local retail sector.

In a bid to quantify the cost of a utility strike we looked into previous research by the University of Birmingham that calculated the cost as a ratio of indirect and social costs compared to the direct cost of repair. The result is 29:1, which means that for every £1,000 of direct cost arising

December 2018

from a pipe or cable strike, the true cost for the owner is £29,000.

As well as the financial burden of a strike and the disruption to businesses and communities, the damage to reputation is also huge. The disruption to any service harms customer perception, and with outlets like social media becoming increasingly popular as ways for customers to vent their frustrations, a complaint can quickly reach a mass audience.

enables them to proactively help those working around their assets with the appropriate advice.

Lastly, if every council registers their assets in this way, every network will be more protected, and every worker involved in excavation will be safer.

To download a copy of the Digging Up Britain report, go to www.linesearchbeforeudig.co.uk/ digging-up-britain-report. n Richard Broome is managing director at LSBUD (Linesearch BeforeUdig)

Next Steps So what can actually be done? Improving the ease of access to councils’ underground infrastructure data to those actually doing the digging needs to significantly improve.

Therefore, a prime step has to be for senior decision makers within local government to ensure that their pipe and cable networks can be found on resources like LSBUD’s portal. This offers a free, easy online search service that quickly provides underground utility mapping records across the UK. In addition to making their data available, local authorities can ensure that all contractors who work on their behalf are briefed to check the LSBUD portal before any spade or digger is used. This instruction would actually speed the process up, because any contractor using the LSBUD service, who previously had to wait up to 28 days to receive asset location data, now gets it within minutes. LSBUD currently provides over 10,000 searches every day; a figure that grew by 27% last year, so it is vital that all local authorities understand the benefits of the collaborative approach.

In addition to avoiding asset strikes, those registered gain many other benefits. They receive data on all the searches taking place in and around their assets – giving them a much clearer picture of the vulnerability of their infrastructure – and they receive warning alerts when work is planned near sensitive assets. This

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Case study: In 2017, a tier one contractor was fined £600,000 after a worker employed by one of its subcontractors was set on fire and left ‘physically and mentally scarred’, when he hit an electrical cable with a pneumatic drill. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Amey, which was working for Gloucestershire County Council, did not provide adequate information on the location of the underground network. The worker suffered life-changing injuries as a result.

Helena Tinton, principal inspector at HSE, was reported to have said: ‘Had the contractor given adequate information to the team working on site, and had the contractor ensured the work was properly planned and supervised, this incident could have been avoided.

‘This case should act as a reminder to local authorities and their contractors of the risks of working underground and the danger of severe electric shocks.’

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Public realm

Going beyond black

As modern construction practices and building design have evolved, so has the choice of asphalt with today’s market offering an explosion of colours and design to meet virtually every conceivable requirement. Victoria Smith argues that when it comes to modern applications, it’s time to think beyond black.

A

sphalt today is not the same product that it was 20 years ago. Where once it may have been limited to the standard construction of roads, highways and pavements, increasingly modern solutions, which have advanced at an unprecedented rate in recent years, now offer more applications than ever before.

For instance, the Government, under its cycling and walking investment strategy (CWIS), pledging over £1.2bn to expand the nation’s cycling facilities, asphalt has become increasingly recognised as one of the most appropriate surfacing choice for cycleways.

More recently, evolving specification requirements of construction which put aesthetic appeal aligned with functionality has prompted the need for greater colour capabilities of building materials such as asphalts.

Indeed, colour is now increasingly playing an important role in the design of our most

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valued public spaces, and whether its parks and green spaces, or roads and football pitches, black asphalt is no longer sufficient to meet the requirements of modern culture.

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As such, a whole host of distinctly coloured asphalt products have now been developed, to be used where colour differentiation is deemed important such as private drives, cycle ways, green spaces, and pedestrian areas and sports applications.

For contractors and building specifiers, which are already overwhelmed by the abundance of different asphalts now on the market, the task of asphalt specification can be inherently more complex.

However, this needn’t be the case. The advice for incorporating coloured asphalt into construction design is to start early, during the planning stages, where understanding how the surface will be used and the stresses it will need to endure is vital.

Consider playgrounds and sports pitches, for instance, where one of the overriding objectives is water permeability, open graded (porous) asphalt mixtures are typically used in bold primary colours to ensure a striking result that offers longevity.

Meanwhile, for bus lanes and cycleways, where safety is of paramount importance, choosing a coloured asphalt that uses a translucent binder, can often be the best option. The special binder, which can be readily pigmented in bold colours including blue, green and red, allows clients to enhance safety and traffic management through colour-coded demarcation areas.

Durability is also key, and given the move away from using black asphalt on footways, parks and natural areas, there has been a shift towards materials that give a more natural finish reflective of the surroundings while providing long-wearing properties.

To cater to this rising appetite for natural landscaping, other more specialist or bespoke coloured asphalts have also been developed.

This includes asphalts which gain their colour by exposing the natural colour of the coursing aggregates used in the mix across a range of colours including red, green and gravel shades.

In order to sufficiently expose the colour of the aggregates, a shot-blasting process is used to remove the surface bitumen after application.

Understandingly, then, given how easily coloured asphalts lend themselves to a wide variety of applications, underpinned by clear safety and aesthetic benefits, it’s no surprise that UK demand for such materials is now at an alltime high, particularly in the South East, where it is increasingly used for private drives, bus lanes, cycle lanes, sports landscaping and parks and natural areas. n Victoria Smith is general manager for express asphalt at Aggregate Industries

December 2018

Company announcement showcase Airtech Environmental Systems

Alpha Heating

Cistermiser Ltd

Fitzgerald Lighting

Airtech Environmental Systems, the ventilation specialists, is delighted to support UK Radon Awareness Week. Run by the UK Radon Association the theme for the 2018 campaign is Healthy Living with the focus being on raising awareness of how radon can affect all aspects of life, from home to workplaces.

Airtech, offers social housing providers a complete solution to help protect residents from the risks caused by Radon gas in the home.

Airtech has 30 years of experience in radon prevention and can offer a full range of products and services.

To ensure accurate testing Airtech leave test pods in properties for a three-month period to help ensure correct radon readings are collected.

Tel: 01823 690 292 or visit www.airtechenvironmental.co.uk

Danestrete NHS Health Centre in Stevenage has been fitted with an Alpha Heating Innovation Ares Tec 200kW modular condensing boiler. Chosen for its reliability, built-in redundancy and efficiency, the self-modulating boiler proved to be the ideal solution for a public sector facility that cannot afford any down time.

The Ares Tec 200kW was installed at the centre along with Alpha’s plate heat exchanger kit to protect the boiler from any possible sludge build up within the existing central heating system water. It also allowed the secondary side of the system to remain open-vented by utilising an existing feed and expansion cistern.

Tel: 0344 871 8760 or visit www.alpha-innovation.co.uk

Cistermiser Ltd and sister company Keraflo Ltd are jointly presented in a brand new corporate website www.ourworldiswater.co.uk which reinforces a shared commitment to producing smart, efficient water management solutions that optimise control, deliver savings and help to ensure the safety and preservation of the earth’s most precious resource.

The two companies boast proud histories spanning over 35 years of service to the UK construction industry, with design and development of proven and innovative products.

Ourworldiswater.co.uk includes a handy Downloads resources section where the very latest Cistermiser and Keraflo-branded specification catalogues can be accessed.

Tel: 0118 969 1611 or visit www.ourworldiswater.co.uk

Fitzgerald Lighting has just launched a new industrial luminaire designed for subways and walkways as well as prisons, police cells and stations.

The LED Stronghold is a high specification, high quality luminaire manufactured from mild steel with a white lacquered finish and a flat, vandal-resistant opal polycarbonate diffuser. It has been tested to BSI 66662 up to and beyond an IK10 impact rating.

The new LED Stronghold luminaire is designed to attain Anti-Ligature status and is tested to the requirement of the National Offenders Management Services.

Tel: 01208 79524 or visit www.fitzlight.co.uk

Nortech Control Systems

Pegler Yorkshire

SWARCO Traffic Ltd

Vent-Axia

For an automatic access control system to function, it requires a means of identifying individuals to determine their access rights. The form of identification can be anything from a memorised password or PIN (personal identification number) to biometrics (measurement of a human characteristic). Since the early days when access was granted when an authorised PIN was entered into a keypad, access control systems have evolved to support many forms of ‘physical’ credentials.

Recent technological advances have made the need to carry identity cards unnecessary. Two completely different approaches have been used - biometric readers and virtual credentials.

Tel: 01633 485533 or visit www.nortechcontrol.com

As the momentum for using an integrated piping system for HVAC applications gathers pace, leading manufacturer Pegler is thrilled to launch a press thick wall solution to its ever increasing portfolio.

VSH PowerPress is a range of fittings and valves for use on thick wall steel pipes particularly in the HVAC market.

The VSH PowerPress range is set to rival competitors by its innovative design and engineered credentials.

Suitable for a range of applications including heating, cooling, sprinkler, air and oil the range will connect steel systems including black steel, epoxy coated and galvanized. This system also combines the best press technology, for which Pegler is renowned.

Tel: 01302 560 560 or visit www.pegleryorkshire.co.uk

An innovative Vehicle-Activated Sign (VAS) system from SWARCO Traffic Ltd that is remotely monitored and controlled is helping increase the safety of schoolchildren and reduce maintenance costs for Cornwall Council.

SWARCO has installed 16 of its signs at three school sites across the county to advise drivers of the advisory 20 mph speed limit during school times.

SWARCO’s innovative remote monitoring system is an easy to use web-based software which allows the council to set timetables, on/ off times and set temporary speed limits on school roads.

Tel: 01748 824624 or visit www.swarco.com

Vent-Axia’s next generation PoziDry Pro™ Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) unit has been updated to include a Radon mode to help tackle the problem of radon gas in affected areas. Designed by the UK’s leading ventilation company specifically to tackle condensation and mould and improve indoor air quality (IAQ) in social housing properties, PIV is also a proven and effective way of significantly reducing radon gas levels. Contaminated air is forced out of the home by the introduction of fresh, filtered air into the property.

In areas where radon gas is a risk, the PoziDry Pro™ can be commissioned to run in the optional Radon mode. This mode ensures that the unit runs continuously to protect the residents from harmful radon gases.

Tel: 0844 856 0590 or visit www.vent-axia.com

December 2018

LGN 40

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Company announcement showcase ECHO Tools

Gerflor

J McCann & Co. Ltd

Intratone

Battery power for garden and groundcare tools has been around for some time now. However, it’s only since the advent of powerful lithium-ion batteries that electric power could really become a serious contender against petrol two-stroke. Now, a new generation of lithium-ion products has arrived and ECHO outdoor power tools are at the forefront with their new range of 58 Volt battery products. This includes a battery hedgetrimmer, trimmer, lawn mower, power blower and chainsaw for semiprofessional and domestic use.

The ECHO interchangeable battery system is available with two options, 2Ah and 4Ah. Tel: 0800 597 7777 or visit www.echo-tools.co.uk

When Monmouthshire Council’s St Mary’s Roman Catholic (RC) Primary School in Bulwark, Chepstow, needed a new flooring to replace the old granwood flooring within two multi-purpose halls and a corresponding corridor, something suitable which was both quick to install and cost-efficient was required.

The solution was found in Gerflor’s Attraction®, a highly durable, looselay, fast track floor tile system which could be quickly and easily laid directly over the existing flooring, thereby avoiding the time, cost and mess that would have been involved in lifting the original granwood, which typically creates a lot of dust.

Tel: 01926 622600 or visit www.gerflor.co.uk

Nottingham-based civil and electrical engineering firm McCann has committed significant additional investment in its approved training organisation, after an increase in demand for its range of industrywide courses.

McCann has received requests for further training to be added to its portfolio from a number of Clients due to the popularity of its existing courses. These include electrical courses covering wiring regulations and initial and periodic electrical inspection testing for public lighting.

The company is also looking to introduce additional health and safety courses surrounding electrical safety, moving and lifting, legislation and standards and, emergency preparation.

McCann has employed Tony Sexton to support the delivery of training and to ensure the full compliance of the company’s training needs.

Tel: 0115 954 0166 or visit www.mccann-ltd.co.uk

Intratone, one of Europe’s leading access control specialists, has appointed David Bell as its new UK Country Manager to head up the sales team, enhance brand awareness working together with the marketing department, and oversee the opening of its UK head office. David will have overall responsibility for the business in the UK including a team of eight Area Sales Managers an Inside Sales function managed by Andre Kazadi will act as coach/mentor to all staff.

Following the establishment of the UK subsidiary earlier this year, the head office is due to be opened in Chiswick in December.

Previously David had been General Manager at Intertek, a provider of Assurance Testing, Inspection and Certification solutions.

Tel: 0207 092 6613 or visit www.intratone.com

Remeha

Saint-Gobain PAM UK

Titon

Glasdon UK Limited

Saint-Gobain PAM UK, leading ductile iron drainage solutions manufacturer is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Warrior, a surface box used extensively in the utility sectors which has been the industry benchmark since its launch in 1993.

The product was first released to the market in late 1993 and was designed to offer a fast and efficient access point for emergency and below-ground services.

Unique to the marketplace, the Warrior product range has had no design alterations since its inception 25 years earlier, as a strong and robust solution The ‘Warrior’ truly embodies its given title.

Tel: 0115 930 5000 or visit www.saint-gobain-pam.co.uk

Titon’s Venture and Adventure friction hinges have attained Secured by Design (SBD) certification, adding to the company’s range of ‘Police Preferred Specification’ products.

Both types of hinge have been developed by the experienced window fittings team in Titon’s ‘AREA 24’ hardware development and testing laboratory, with all dimensions and opening geometries calculated and designed to fit the most commonly used window profiles.

The Venture range is suitable for domestic and light commercial applications on side or top hung windows. The Adventure range has been designed for larger, heavier sashes or commercial applications.

Tel: 0800 970 4190 or visit www.titon.co.uk

Glasdon is ‘in its Element™’ with latest GRP Housing.

The high quality, cost-effective Element housing range incorporates corrosion, vandal and weather resistant modular GRP panels for ultimate flexibility.

Customisation is available with a choice of optional fittings: door stays, vent and gland plates, and a range of locking systems.

Delivered fully assembled, Element can quickly be put to use. Typical applications include: electrical and switchgear enclosure, transformer housing, control room or generator housing.

With 50 years of Buildings and Housing experience, Glasdon is renowned for quality, design and cost-effectiveness.

Tel: 01253 600410 or visit uk.glasdon.com/Element

South Ayrshire Council has reduced annual gas costs at its County Buildings headquarters in Ayr by an outstanding £35K since replacing dated boiler plant with highefficiency Remeha Gas 310/610 Eco Pro condensing boilers.

Data from the Council reveals a fall in gas consumption of 1.2GW when comparing its usage in 2015/2016 with 2017/2018 and taking into account degree days. This equates to an impressive carbon emissions reduction of around 217 tonnes per annum.

The Remeha boilers are designed for optimum operation, with the ability to modulate from between 100% down to 18% using their own on-board control system.

Tel: 0118 978 3434 or visit www.remeha.co.uk

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LGN 41

December 2018

Company announcement showcase AkzoNobel

Building Additions

Contour Heating Products Ltd

Crowcon

At AkzoNobel they know that an industry recognised standard assessment which tests various common ‘problems and challenges’ faced daily by its furniture lacquers is crucial in determining quality and longevity.

In undergoing a Furniture Industry Research Association (FIRA) testing programme for a range of their products AkzoNobel can provide an unbiased, holistic and pragmatic set of results.

AkzoNobel have had some very positive results regarding FIRA testing on six of their most popular interior paint coating systems. In each product type FIRA tested a clear and opaque system with the AkzoNobel products achieving a full house of six passes.

Tel: 01254 687950 or visit www.sikkens-wood-coatings.co.uk

Folding partition specialist Building Additions has helped to transform the inside of Addiction Recovery Community (ARC) at Montague Hall, Hounslow, with the installation of six of its operable walls.

Hounslow Council wanted to install operable walls in order to make the best use of the space available.

The partitions were fitted to create individual meeting rooms to provide privacy and security to those visiting the facility.

Building Additions designed and installed a tailor made solution for Montague Hall, enabling them to create space for individual meetings more easily.

Tel: 01373 454577 or visit www.buildingadditions.co.uk

Safe surface temperature specialists, Contour, have recently completed a project with Walton Hall Academy to provide LST safety radiator guards to the school that will protect students from burns and reduce the risk of injuries around their radiators.

Walton Hall’s previous radiator covers needed to be replaced to allow staff easier access for cleaning and maintenance as students were often pushing small items through the grilles.

Contour provided 19 DeepClean LST radiator covers with radius edges and bullnose corners, which eliminated the risk of children injuring themselves on sharp edges.

Tel: 01952 290498 or visit www.contourheating.co.uk

To support the oil and gas industry in the Middle East, Crowcon has developed a high-temperature hydrogen sulphide (H2S) sensor to work alongside its XgardIQ fixed point detector and transmitter.

Crowcon has developed a sensor capable of operating at 70°C, improving on electrochemical technology to produce a sensor to retain moisture levels, so preventing evaporation of the electrolyte, even in the harsh Middle Eastern climate.

Crowcon’s new HT H2S sensor works with the XgardIQ. The optional remote sensor housing means the sensor can be installed for optimal leak detection.

Tel: 01235 557700 or visit www.crowcon.com

EnviroVent

STANLEY Security

Steelway

Wrekin Products

EnviroVent has revolutionised its Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) range and added a whole collection of new features and functionality to make it even more appealing for homeowners, self-builders, social housing providers and private landlords.

Atmos® is the first smart range of PIV solutions with five different units available designed to improve indoor air quality and eradicate the problem of condensation and mould growth in all types and sizes of homes.

In addition, there is a wall mounted Atmos® unit suitable for apartments and flats that do not have a loft space.

Tel: 0845 27 27 810 or visit www.envirovent.com

STANLEY Security, one of the UK’s leading security companies, has been accredited with ISO 9001:2015 - the very latest Quality Management System Standard.

For STANLEY Security customers, ISO 9001:2015 accreditation provides clear proof that its products and services work and meet legal and industry standards and that, if there is an issue, a process is in place to rectify it and ensure it doesn’t happen again. It’s also designed to make staff more efficient by standardising systems and procedures, whilst still allowing for flexibility so that STANLEY can work with customers in a way which suits them.

STANLEY Security has been accredited to the previous quality standard, BS EN ISO 9001:2008, for many years.

Tel: 0844 254 0032 or visit www.stanleysecurity.co.uk

If you are looking for a manufacturer you can trust then Steelway’s knowledge and expertise is unparalleled. Steelway have delivered steel fabrication excellence and expertise since 1928. They are able to design, manufacture and install fire escape staircases for industrial, commercial and residential environments.

Where required a fire escape staircase can be replaced and or extended to match existing specifications, even when access is limited. Steelway’s team of engineers can visit your site to assess the proposed installation area and accurately prepare a scheme for fire emergency use.

Tel: 01902 451733 or visit www.steelway.co.uk

Residents being kept awake by rattling manhole covers outside their properties in Sunderland is becoming a thing of the past after the City Council took expert advice on an issue which generates reports nationwide.

Sunderland City Council (SCC) approached its ironwork supplier and explained the problem.

They suggested replacing the cover with one designed and manufactured by Wrekin Products.

Called Unite, it is full of patented design features including being the stiffest cover in its class. Unite’s unique features help prevent the root causes of rattling.

Tel: 01543 440 440 or visit www.wrekinproducts.com

December 2018

LGN 42

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Company & Product Focus Clark-Drain Limited

Marley Alutec

Investing in good product design makes a significant contribution to safe installation and use, longevity and aesthetics. In the case of utility access, these are core to the function of an installation and the use of well-designed access covers can save money later on.

An example of this can be seen in busy town centres and retail developments, where the simple addition of a high tolerance cap reduces the common problem of heels getting caught in exposed keyholes and causing a trip hazard; a common cause of public litigation.

Further to this, good design also supports manual handling with the use of easy-to-remove slide out trays reducing the risk of injury during routine maintenance. Other design features can lessen infill movement, lowering the risk of damage and improving the public experience.

The use of concealed locking systems, sometimes with additional security options for high risk installations, can act as a theft deterrent but also provide added security against unauthorised access.

Clark-Drain is dedicated to meeting construction needs with innovative and high quality products.

Tel: 01733 765 317 or visit www.clark-drain.com

Requiring little or no maintenance, products from Marley Alutec’s Evolve rainwater and Evoke eaves solutions ranges were recently specified for the renovation of PA Housing’s The Fairway, to reduce the scheme’s operational costs long term.

In line with PA Housing’s mission to provide safe, pleasant homes and neighbourhoods where people have pride in their surroundings, the renovation of the three-storey building in West Moseley included the replacement of the rainwater system, fascias and soffits, which had reached the end of their life.

PA Housing teamed up with Building Surveyor Ian Manley from Churchill Hui, who recommended Marley Alutec’s products due to their performance, quality and longevity.

Marley Alutec’s Evolve deepflow round guttering and Evoke fascias and soffits were chosen, as the aluminium systems have a life expectancy of up to 50 years or more. Highly corrosion resistant, they will never rust or need re-painting. In addition, the Evoke range is also available in a choice of 12 PVDF paint options.

Tel: 01234 359438 or visit www.marleyalutec.co.uk

Cistermiser have updated their market-leading IRC® infrared urinal flushing control valve, with improved aesthetics and an array of practical new design features.

The IRC® employs motionsensing infrared to automatically control the flushing of cistern-fed urinals, minimise water wastage and ensure compliance with Water Regulations. The PIR sensor detects movement and activates the solenoid valve, allowing water into the cistern.

Incorporating the same proven and robust brass valve, new IRC® design features include a stylish and compact body shape, an “economy” mode option to provide even greater water savings, a new-style mounting bracket for recessed installations and an improved design which allows clients to replace batteries with ease by simply removing the front fascia to access the battery compartment.

The success of the IRC® is due in no small part to its design flexibility. Battery or mains-powered, the IRC® can use batteries as back-up power to mains supply if required. The sensor can be pipe, wall or ceiling mounted, surface-mounted or recessed to conceal the unit and reduce the risk of vandalism.

Tel: 0118 969 1611 or visit www.ourworldiswater.co.uk

Vista Engineering

Ashtead Technology

SGS Online Services

Vista Engineering has issued two new brochures which provide full details of the company’s ranges of windposts and masonry support products.

The new publications provide a handy specification guide for architects, engineers, builders and other construction professionals.

The windpost publication details Vista’s windpost, parapet and spine post ranges, which provide rugged support for masonry panels subject to higher lateral loads, but without the need for extra columns or a greater wall thickness. It details the different product variations which are available, it references associated Vista products such as setscrews and anchors, and it provides sample illustrations of typical applications. Performance tables showing section sizes and recommended resistances are also included, along with a windpost design sheet which can be used to create bespoke product design specifications.

Vista’s comprehensive selection of high quality, value-engineered masonry support products are featured in the second new brochure. These include a variety of masonry and stone support solutions which can accommodate many different project requirements. Specification details are included, along with illustrations of common applications.

Tel: 01663 736700 or visit www.vistaeng.co.uk

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Cistermiser

As a Health Safety and Environmental Consultant, Matthew Brown is often asked to investigate indoor air quality because of its effects on staff health and performance.

In a recent project, in response to health complaints in an office complex containing 800 people, he rented a TSI QUEST EVM-7, one of the latest monitors from Ashtead Technology.

“In the past, it would have been necessary to operate several instruments simultaneously,” Matthew explains. “But the QUEST monitors multiple parameters, so the investigation work was quicker and easier.”

The QUEST EVM-7 monitored Temperature, Relative Humidity, Air Velocity, Particulates, CO2, VOCs and a toxic gas. Data were compared with workplace exposure limits and were found to be acceptable; however, CO2 levels rose during the day.

Matthew says: “The instrument arrived clean, calibrated and ready for immediate use with an easy-to-use start-up procedure, and we were able to present a very professional report; appeasing the concerns of staff and recommending future actions for management.”

Tel: 0845 270 2707 or visit www.ashtead-technology.com

LGN 43

SGS is launching an online portal, SGS Online Services, to make its testing, inspection and certification services accessible to all in one click.

The platform offers a dedicated range of services to help companies reduce risk, streamline processes and operate in a more sustainable manner.

The platform is also open to individuals who can benefit from SGS’ expertise.

SGS Online Services works like an online shop: customers can access information about the various services, including fuel testing, pesticide analysis and supply chain solutions, add them to their cart and pay online.

Now open in the United Kingdom, China and Germany, the portal will expand to a vast number of countries and offer more than 100 services in the coming months.

The platform relies on an easy and effective process to bring SGS international network of experts to customers’ door step. To test the state of lubrification or hydraulic oil for example, customers can now buy a sample kit online, follow SGS instructions to extract the sample and send it back to SGS laboratory with a pre-paid envelop.

Tel: 01276 697670 or visit https://onlineservices.sgs.com

December 2018

Company & announcements/New Product Focus products ENGIE

Leafield Environmental

Klober

Leafield Environmental has launched an automatic fire suppression system for its popular Square Heritage litterbins.

ENGIE, the leading energy and services group, has been appointed by West Yorkshire Combined Authority to provide a new network of at least 88 rapid electric vehicle charging points across the region. The new initiative will help improve air quality in West Yorkshire and also aims to encourage the use of electric vehicles.

To deliver the network, West Yorkshire Combined Authority has secured almost £2 million funding from the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV). The Authority will work together with ENGIE and its district partners, the Councils of Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield - who are providing an additional £1.2m of match funding.

Under the agreement, ENGIE will install, own and operate the charge points for a period of at least 10 years. They will also provide 100% renewable electricity for the charging network.

Work will soon get underway to identify suitable and convenient charge point locations, with installations beginning in 2019.

Typically, the charging points will provide a full charge to an electric vehicle in around 20 to 30 minutes and will be free to use until late October 2021. Visit www.engie.co.uk

Klober has received a significant boost for its market-leading low resistance air-open underlay Permo® air with certification by Local Authority Building Control (LABC) for its Registered Details scheme.

In the past, variable performance of vapour permeable underlays led to the NHBC and BSI deciding that only air-open membranes could be used without supporting high level ventilation.

Designed to meet this requirement and prevent condensation forming in the roofspace, Klober Permo® air offers an exceptional level of breathability. It has a water vapour transmission sd-Value of 0.009m and a water vapour resistance confirmed to be as low as 0.045 MNs/g. As a result, it has been specified for roofing upgrades of many high profile and historic buildings.

For new builds, particularly those with complex roof designs, underlay performance is put under greatest strain during the critical drying out period.

Permo® air’s use on both cold and warm roof installations avoids the additional cost of supporting ventilation and offers the additional benefit of having been tested for wind uplift resistance by the BRE. Tel: 01332 813050 or visit http://klober.co.uk/shop/category/ air-open-underlay

Should a fire breakout inside a bin, the device activates by a sacrificial bulb that bursts at a given temperature, releasing a powder discharge from an extinguisher. Extensive tests have shown the device to be extremely effective in putting out fires before they “take hold”, with bins remaining fully serviceable after the fire has been extinguished.

The optional extinguisher unit is fitted neatly within the twin skin of the bin hood. It is barely visible from the outside and does not interfere with the passage of litter.

Discharged extinguishers can be removed and replaced easily, thanks to quick-release mechanism of the holder.

The Company recommends that a regular emptying, inspection and maintenance programme should be instigated to ensure the extinguisher remains serviceable or has been discharged and needs replacing.

The Square Heritage is an exceptionally strong bin, rotationally moulded from medium density polyethylene. It has four large apertures to allow easy ‘walk by’ access and is equally suitable for internal or external use. Apertures may be blanked off where a location dictates it.

Tel: 01225 816541 or visit www.leafieldrecycle.com

Merriott

Sutcliffe Play

Vent-Axia

A primary school in Kent has opted for brand new low surface temperature (LST) radiators from Merriott as part of a complete overhaul of its antiquated, underperforming heating system – improving safety standards, boosting efficiency, cutting bills, and maximising comfort for pupils and staff in the process.

Specialist M&E contactors JT Edwards specified and then installed 175 NHS-compliant Merriott Protecta LSTs over a six-month period. These were located primarily in the school’s communal areas (such as halls), as well as in offices and classrooms.

Independently tested in an EN442-accredited laboratory, the Merriott LSTs installed at Morehall Primary School are certified to meet BS EN442 standards. They comply with NHS Safe Surface Temperature guidelines of maximum 43˚C when operating at a maximum flow temperature of 80˚C (and a return of 60˚C), or at a maximum flow temperature of 75˚C (and a return of 65˚C).

In line with NHS Estates guidelines, they are also designed without sharp edges, and the top grilles ensure no foreign objects or small hands can reach the emitter. Tel: 01633 657 000 or visit www.merriottuk.com

Sutcliffe Play is pleased to announce the completion of a new junior and toddler inclusive play area at Kirkdale Recreation Ground in Liverpool; the first installation to be undertaken by the company in the City of Liverpool for nearly 20 years.

The unit - which is designed to enhance play for local children and encourage inclusivity - forms part of a regeneration strategy by Liverpool City Council for the design and installation of 20 new and improved play areas across the city, utilising Cabinet funding.

The new play area offers an abundance of play opportunities for local children, with vibrant colours and equipment which is designed to stand the test of time.

Situated within a circular fence perimeter, there are a variety of play options available for younger children, including the Two Slides Multi-play unit and Dish Roundabout enabling children of all abilities to play together, with more challenging equipment available to older children in the surrounding open space, including the Trim Trail; featuring a variety of balancing, climbing and traversing activities.

Tel: 01977 653 200 or visit www.sutcliffeplay.co.uk

Leading British ventilation manufacturer Vent-Axia has launched its updated Lo-Carbon Revive fan with a range of new and improved features that ensure it continues to meet the specific needs of Social Housing. Boasting powerful, quiet and efficient ventilation, the intelligent LoCarbon Revive is a filter-less unitary fan and now includes an adjustable trickle speed option, an interchangeable intermittent mode and smoother humidity boost transition, as well as a raft of useful original features. This extra functionality in the software means even greater flexibility, making this a truly universal fan so installers need just one fan for their van.

Condensation and mould are directly linked to poor indoor air quality (IAQ). The new features help tackle these issues even more effectively with the ability to commission the fan to meet the needs of the property and with resident acceptability in mind. Installers can quickly and easily select from a range of options. Add to this Revive’s innovative Multi-Vortex™ technology which powerfully, but quietly removes moisture and stale air helping ensure good IAQ and comfort for residents.

Tel: 0844 856 0590 or visit www.vent-axia.com

December 2018

LGN 44

www.LocalGov.co.uk

Company & Product Focus DW Windsor

Imperial

JSP Ltd

Designed by city surveyor William Haywood, Holborn Viaduct (otherwise known as Farringdon Street Bridge) was constructed between 1863 and 1869. Until recently, modern lighting, above shop entrances provided the only light to the highway under the bridge.

DW Windsor worked closely with TfL and the City of London to agree and install traditional globe lanterns, echoing the style of the original luminaires and bridge architecture, which is now grade II listed.

DW Windsor were asked to replicate the original lanterns based on a copy of preserved blueprints.

The proposed design imitates details of the original filigree, with a shortened stem to reduce windage.

The appealingly simple spherical form of the Polar luminaire, by DW Windsor provided the foundation of the replica lanterns. With ornate gilded infills added to the brackets and luminaire to echo the original design. An opal polycarbonate cover was selected to help diffuse light within the upper hemisphere of the lantern, whereas the lower bowl is a clear polycarbonate to maximise light output, where needed, on to the road and pavement.

Tel: 01992 474600 or visit www.dwwindsor.com

Finding the right digital partner helps Canterbury to drive service transformation “Our appointment of Imperial was the turning point in our transformation programme to improve customer services,” says Peter Davies, Head of Digital Transformation and Policy at Canterbury City Council.

The management of parking permits for residents and businesses and service constraints in the area of parking enforcement presented the most challenging operational and cultural issues for Peter Davies and his team.

“The support of Imperial has provided immediate and ongoing customer benefits,” says Davies. “The company’s partnership approach and the flexibility of its digital end-to-end solutions have provided the catalyst for implementing far-reaching digital service improvements. Over 80% of transactions are now completed easily on line, operational efficiencies have improved considerably and revenue is continuing to rise due to improved take-up of permits by local businesses.”

The significant progress in service transformation has prompted the authority to harness Imperial’s advice and ICT expertise across other service areas and has set a new standard for its work with other suppliers.

Tel: 0117 925 1700, visit www.imperial.co.uk or email sales@imperial.co.uk

The NEW Force™10 Typhoon™ is an extremely lightweight, easy to maintain full face mask at only 365g with a completely clear panoramic visor to maximise light levels within the mask giving optimum visibility.

The optical class 1 panoramic visor conforms to EN166.B offering impact protection at speeds of up to 270 mph (tested using a 6mm steel ball bearing).

The visor can have the option of a replaceable peeloff visor protector to prolong its life.

Extensive research has been carried out by NIOSH (ISO16976-2) to distinguish the world’s 5 most common facial shapes. Using this research JSP have digitally optimised the ergonomics of the Force™10 Typhoon’s™ face seal to maximise wearer compatibility. The Force™10 Typhoon™ is available in 3 sizes (small, medium and large) as comfort and fit is a key feature of this ultra-lightweight mask.

The unique Typhoon™ exhalation valve has been designed to reduce breathing resistance, heat and moisture build-up. The valve is unaffected by any moisture, and therefore can be used with the same performance under very low temperatures (-40°C tested).

Tel: 01993 826050 or visit www.jsp.co.uk

Keraflo

Oxehealth

Safeguard Europe

The British Standards Institute (BSI) has accredited Oxehealth’s vital signs measurement software as a Class IIa medical device in Europe.

This is the first time that software enabling a digital video camera sensor to remotely measure vital signs has been approved as a medical device.

No global medical device regulator, including the US Food and Drug Administration, has previously approved a device of this nature.

To detect pulse rate, the device works in the same way as the familiar pulse oximeter, which detects the slight changes in skin colour caused by the blood being pumped around the body.

However, unlike a pulse oximeter, which must be attached to a patient’s skin, it can be used to monitor pulse rate remotely. The device also detects the movements of the body caused by breathing to count breathing rate.

The Oxehealth vital signs measurement software will now be marketed alongside the company’s existing suite of contact-free activity tracking tools, which are already being used by NHS trusts and care homes.

Tel: 01865 781 343 or visit www.oxehealth.com

Stormdry Masonry Protection Cream from Safeguard Europe – the UK’s leading specialist in damp- and waterproofing, and masonry repair solutions – has been granted ‘verified’ status by the Energy Saving Trust (EST) in respect of its contribution to improving the energy performance of buildings.

The Energy Saving Trust’s verification scheme provides independent evaluation of performance for energy-efficient products. After considering peer-reviewed scientific papers and the results of extensive long-term testing, the EST awarded the prestigious recognition to Stormdry for its claims to enhance thermal performance of masonry walls.

For instance, according to tests conducted on solid wall constructions by the University of Portsmouth, Stormdry treatment of masonry can provide energy savings of up to 29%. It does this by providing a high-level of water repellency, preventing rain penetration of brickwork and keeping walls dry. Bricks have twice the thermal resistance when dry than when wet, making them insulate more effectively.

Crucial to the high performance of Stormdry is the depth of penetration into masonry; and the concentration of active ingredients in the formula.

Tel: 01403 220130 or visit www.safeguardeurope.com

A primary school in Uxbridge has retired its Aylesbury cold water storage tank valve after 24 years of service, so its successor can now take the strain.

Spare parts were no longer readily available to fit a valve of that age, so manufacturers Keraflo recommended that the best solution was to upgrade the system by fitting the modern version of the Aylesbury K-Type valve.

A small leak caused by wear and tear could have led to possible flooding in the offices and school rooms sited adjacent to the water tank, so the decision was taken to install a brand new Aylesbury ‘K’ valve. A local plumber installed the new replacement valve quickly and easily. This was the quickest and easiest way to solve the problem and ensure the school’s daily life was not disrupted.

Neil Weston, Keraflo’s Technical Sales Manager, said: “Whilst not unusual, it is still a pleasant surprise to visit a site and see a float valve of this age in such an excellent general condition.”

Tel: 0118 921 9920 or visit www.keraflo.co.uk

www.LocalGov.co.uk

LGN 45

December 2018

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Local Government News Appointments In association with

Go to jobs.localgov.co.uk for these roles and more JOB OF THE MONTH Head of Planning ◊ Cheltenham, Gloucestershire ◊ Up to c£60,000 per annum ◊ Cheltenham Borough Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 07 Jan 2019 “We will look to you to lead the team to deliver an excellent, coordinated range of planning and

development services to residents and businesses, working with our partners and with the community to secure consensus on future planning and deliver high quality outcomes. Under your leadership the team will drive our ambitious place making agenda, deliver consistent performance improvement and provide an outstanding service to our customers. ”

Career Grade Planning Officers

Chief Financial Officer

◊ Brent, London Borough ◊ £25,746 - £40,887 p.a. inc. ◊ Brent Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 11 Jan 2019

◊ Based in either Melton (near Woodbridge) or Lowestoft ◊ Up to £74,291 pa ◊ Suffolk Coastal District and Waveney District Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 02 Jan 2019

“We need a great town planner to deal with some really interesting applications and pre-application proposals. Brent has a big growth agenda and is serious about securing good quality, sustainable development in the Borough. We work hard with applicants to achieve this.”

“The ability to lead, inspire, motivate and manage.”

Democratic Services Manager ◊ Horsham, West Sussex ◊ £36,153-£39,960 pa plus attractive benefits ◊ Horsham District Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 02 Jan 2019 “To succeed as Democratic Services Manager, it is essential that you have substantial experience of committee administration, preferably within local government or other public body, and have a detailed knowledge of local government functions, structures and procedures.”

Executive Director Economic Growth & Neighbourhood Services ◊ Reading, Berkshire ◊ c. £130k ◊ Reading Borough Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 14 Jan 2019 “You’ll accelerate the pace of activity across all economic sectors – retail, health, education, professional services and knowledge businesses – and engage with emerging projects as an influential venture partner.”

Occupational Therapist

Social Worker – Children with Disability Service

Assistant SEND Officer

◊ England, London, Woolwich ◊ £38994 - £41847 per annum + Car Park Pass ◊ Royal Borough of Greenwich ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 22 Dec 2018

◊ Bexleyheath, London (Greater) ◊ £31,878- £41,109 (inclusive of Choices Flexible Benefits of £2,322 pa) ◊ London Borough of Bexley ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 03 Jan 2019

◊ Brent, London Borough ◊ £25,746 - £27,342 per annum (pro rata) ◊ Brent Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 13 Jan 2019

“Ideal candidates will possess highly developed knowledge in children’s social work practice and ideally will have experience of working with children with disabilities. Do you think you have what it takes to join our team?”

“You will need to have a flexible approach and be able to respond to changing work demands.”

“We are looking for an experienced, autonomous and highly motivated practitioner who wants to influence practice and who is looking for a new challenge in the work place. We would value a keen, creative individual who thrives on developing services and the profession.”

Assistant Director - Community Services ◊ Wirral, Merseyside ◊ Competitive salary ◊ Wirral Borough Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 07 Jan 2019 “We want someone who can create new models of delivery, someone who can turn the traditional model of delivering old-fashioned services on its head and instead find new ways of meeting our residents’ modern needs. You’ll get the help you need, but you must be a leader.”

Principal Policy and Projects Officer ◊ Camden, London (Greater) ◊ £44,612 - £51,751 ◊ Camden London Borough Council ◊ Full time ◊ Closes: 01 Jan 2019 “You enjoy mobilising people to tackle complex challenges.”

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December 2018

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