Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 by Lapthorn Media

March 2021

CONSTRUCTIONMAGUK.CO.UK

Kier completes Phase 1B of Everards Brewery project

YHN supports Women in Construction

ECOGREEN PLANT HIRE – WATERLESS WHEEL WASH

STEELWORKS COMMENCED ON THREE NEW UNITS AT ST. MODWEN PARK

Containex: Modular buildings for your construction site

SCHÖCK: MODULAR THERMAL BREAK IS THE ‘GO TO’ SOLUTION FOR STEEL-TO-STEEL DETAILING

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Contents March 2021

Mott MacDonald reaffirms commitment to net-zero

St. Modwen pushes on with plans to deliver more than 70,000 sq ft of space at St. Modwen Park Broomhall

Kier completes Phase 1B of Everards Brewery project

Failing to plan is planning to fail – we must get procurement preparation right

Works start on key SEND schools in Lincolnshire as investment continues

Southwark Construction Skills Centre moves to Canada Water

What impact has lockdown had on the construction sector? By Paul Israel, Director at Simply

The Common Assessment Standard from CHAS: What you need to know

Women in Construction: YHN supports women in construction

Modular thermal break is the ‘go to’ solution for steel-to-steel detailing

hub South West partner, LDC, completes Airdrie school expansion project to increase pupil capacity

Is modular the future of sustainable construction?

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Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 03

Company News

DERBYSHIRE BASED PROPERTY GROUP, CLOWES DEVELOPMENTS PURCHASE A 55-ACRE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT SITE ON THE EDGE OF CONGLETON, EAST CHESHIRE

CARBON NUMBERS LTD. BECOMES SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC PARTNER Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, has partnered with Carbon Numbers Ltd, the energy management and carbon reduction specialists, to supply its EcoStruxure™ Building Automation and Control product solutions. The adoption of Schneider Electric solutions enhances the strategies that Carbon Numbers develop and deliver to their clients, resulting in further reductions in carbon and energy costs whilst improving working environment conditions across a wide range of facilities and applications. With energy management at their core, Carbon Numbers work with clients to create realistic plans tailored to customers’ energy, carbon, and financial objectives. The team have delivered their vision of superior building performance across a variety of business segments, from locations in Essex, London, North Preston and Aberdeen. The addition of Carbon Numbers Ltd. is also a further boost for the Schneider Electric EcoXpert partner programme. The variety of bespoke services based upon specialist knowledge and experience in energy management and carbon reduction offered by Carbon Numbers aligns perfectly with Schneider Electric’s core values and the capability of the EcoStruxure™ product offers.

“Our clients are looking for well-informed advice and support in meeting their sustainability ambitions as they move to net zero. The wealth of experience within Carbon Numbers, coupled with our ability to undertake every element of a complete energy solution and our commitment to deliver on the plans we develop for our clients enables us to make significant improvements to their energy spend and carbon reduction”, said Neil Fright CEO of Carbon Numbers Ltd. “Partnering with Schneider Electric brings the wide range of EcoStruxure products into scope for our clients. The product solutions and the close alignment between the values of our two businesses make for a perfect match. There is no doubt that, by applying the Schneider Electric solutions, we will accelerate our goal of delivering energy and carbon reduction solutions to our customers”. Westley Thurley, Channel Leader BMS System Integrators and Mechanical Consultants, at Schneider Electric commented “We are incredibly pleased to be welcoming Carbon Numbers to the EcoXpert programme. Neil and the team at Carbon Numbers are specialists in energy management and carbon reduction and their goals and values align so closely to those of Schneider Electric. I am convinced our pairing will enable end-user customers to rapidly benefit from the solutions we are able to provide together”.

Clowes Developments has exchanged unconditional contracts on a 55-acre site on the edge of Congleton. The site had been allocated in the Cheshire East Local Plan forming part of the wider North Congleton Masterplan. National land promoter Richborough Estates submitted outline planning permission which was considered by strategic planning committee on Friday 12th March and was given the go ahead to proceed. The mixed-use scheme comprises the 23-acre Viking Park which will form an extension to the well-established Congleton Business Park and is set to deliver in the region of 500 jobs. Also included within the scheme proposals are the development of up to 175 homes, a park and wildlife corridors plus a neighbourhood retail centre. Access will be via the new Congleton Link Road, which is due to complete within weeks. Nick Jones, Regional Director at Richborough Estates said: “We are thrilled to have secured planning permission and the sale to Clowes within just weeks of bringing the site to the market. “This is set to be a really high-quality scheme for people to live and work and supports Cheshire East’s aim of delivering employment-led growth, homes and community infrastructure. Clowes have been a pleasure to deal with and we look forward to working with them on the project going forward.Congratulations to our landowner and all the team, including agents Savills, Legat Owen and Hinson Parry.” Marc Freeman, Director at Clowes Developments said: “We are extremely excited about bringing this scheme forward and delivering a thriving new community with high quality homes and business space.

We’re confident that development of the site located on the fringe of Congleton Town will provide a number of economic benefits through the extensive commercial, employment, and residential uses.

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Company News GLENCAR EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH LEICESTER RIDERS FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON

From l to r, Joe Smith, Crew Leader, Graham Nicklin, Crew Leader, Philip White, Grounds Maintenance Operative, Tim Clarke, Grounds Maintenance Operative and Paul Reece, Crew Leader

Reigning British Basketball League (BBL) champions in action this evening in top of the table encounter vs. Newcastle Eagles to be shown on Sky Sports at 19.30. Glencar, an expanding construction company specialising in the industrial, logistics, distribution, manufacturing, life science and pharmaceutical sectors are pleased to announce that, after a successful initial sponsorship activation with reigning British Basketball League (BBL) Champions Leicester Riders back in December, they have agreed to extend their partnership as a key sponsor for the remainder of the 2021 season The club who are in action this evening against Newcastle Eagles are Britain’s oldest professional basketball team and currently sitting in top place in the league table. Commenting on the sponsorship, Glencar Managing Director Eddie McGillycuddy said: “Glencar is fully committed to corporate social responsibility, particularly in the communities in which we work. We see our role as being an active and supportive partner working in close co-operation and this continued partnership with Leicester Riders is a perfect example of that. We are supporting the club and its “community development programmes which has recently included a Camp for Key Workers as a massive thank you for all the work they done and continue to do throughout the pandemic. To be able to provide childcare provision and support children to stay engaged in basketball during the pandemic is a small step in supporting our community’s recovery of covid and return to basketball”. Also commenting, Leicester Riders’ Managing Director Russell Levenston said: “After the hugely successful activation for our Sky Sports game against Bristol in December, we are very happy that Glencar have agreed to continue to support the club for the remainder of the season and we are also discussing a multi-year deal to help support our pathway and community programme, “As a club we really value our community, the player pathway and the winning culture that we have created. There is a perfect synergy between what we are doing and Glencar’s own sense and spirit of community engagement and development initiatives. We’re excited to be working alongside Glencar and appreciate their support and investment into our club.

NEW GROUNDS MAINTENANCE CONTRACT REDUCES FUEL CONSUMPTION A property maintenance company has signed a new grounds maintenance contract which will reduce fuel consumption.

!We combine being a local family run business with more than 50 years’ experience alongside being one of the largest machinery suppliers in the UK.”

Platform Property Care – a subsidiary of Platform Housing Group, one of the UK’s largest social landlords – has announced Ron Smith & Co as its new supplier.

Simon concluded:

The new contract will see fuel cost savings of around 7 per cent. Simon Harris, Service Manager at Platform Property Care explained: “Having new up to date machinery will increase our performance and also drive efficiencies across our cyclical contracts. With any powered equipment, our carbon footprint is paramount; these new machines will reduce our fuel consumption by up to 7 per cent.” The new contract will see Platform Property Care leasing 15 new tractor mowers to tackle a substantial workload throughout its operating area, including maintenance of its sheltered schemes, villages, estates, public open spaces, pre-sale shared ownership units and its Rooftop Housing contract. The decision to appoint Worcester based Ron Smith & Co was part of a robust procurement exercise; the company was chosen for its competitive long term lease savings and its service back up. Rob Manton, Sales Manager at Ron Smith & Co said : “We are delighted to be the chosen partner for grounds maintenance equipment at Platform Property Care.

Our aim is to use suppliers with a proven track record in service and support, specific to our industry. Whilst having new machinery increases both productivity and utilisation, they must also work hand in hand with health and safety, meet homologation standards and vehicle compliance. Platform Housing Group’s operating area is from Herefordshire in the West to the Lincolnshire coast in the East, and from the Derbyshire Dales in the North to the Cotswolds in the South. Platform Housing Group – which owns 46,000 homes in total – completed 1448 homes in 2019/20 (1,598 in 2018/19) at an investment of £258m (£228m in 2018/19). The Group also built more social rented homes – at a figure of 981 – during the past 2 years in England than any other provider, 523 in 2019/20, almost 33% of the total homes built. Platform Housing Group’s operating area is from Herefordshire in the West to the Lincolnshire coast in the East, and from the Derbyshire Dales in the North to the Cotswolds in the South.

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 05

Company News

SOCOTEC ANNOUNCES NEW UK CEO SOCOTEC, the UK’s leading provider of testing, inspection and compliance services, has announced the appointment of Nicolas Detchepare as its new CEO. With a turnover of £140m and over 1,700 employees, the UK is the second most important geographical platform in the SOCOTEC Group after France. The appointment of Nicolas aligns with the Group’s ambition to become the leading trusted third party in Testing Inspection and Certification in the Construction and Infrastructure sectors. A graduate of the Ecole Centrale de Nantes, with a master’s degree from HEC Paris and an MBA from INSEAD, Nicolas joined SOCOTEC in 2016, bringing with him experience in operations management and consultancy from Strategy& - the global strategy consulting team at PwC - and Alix Partners. Nicolas has managed the Equipment and Industry activity on behalf of SOCOTEC in France for the past four years and is a member of the management board of the SOCOTEC Group. Nicolas takes over from current CEO, Ian Sparks, who is retiring having successfully managed the company for the last eight years. Ian joined the management board of the SOCOTEC Group after it acquired ESG in 2017. Nicolas comments: “I am delighted to join SOCOTEC UK and be part of the future of the company. The company has proven its resilience in these challenging times, delivering high standards of quality and service to its clients, something which I believe to be fundamental. Infrastructure, construction, compliance and the built environment are core to our business, and with a greater focus on safety, the sustainability of buildings and infrastructure, we will work together to help support our clients as they meet this critical challenge.”

MOTT MACDONALD REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO NET-ZERO Mott MacDonald has announced that it has joined Race To Zero; a United Nations initiative to rally leadership and support from businesses, cities, regions, and investors for a healthy, resilient, zero carbon recovery. Organisations that sign up to Race To Zero commit themselves to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The firm has long been at the forefront of sustainability within the construction and engineering sector and over the last decade has been instrumental in setting the global agenda to reduce carbon emissions in infrastructure asset delivery and management. Committing to the Race To Zero campaign is the latest in a long list of Mott MacDonald’s low-carbon policies. The global engineering, management and development consultancy has already pledged to reach net-zero by 2040 and set out a detailed 12-point plan on how this is to be achieved. Last year, Mott MacDonald became the first-in-class consultancy to be independently certified as carbon neutral and, having reduced its global carbon footprint by 45% per employee over the last five years, is on track to reduce the absolute figure by a further 25% by 2024. A founding member of the Net Zero Infrastructure Industry Coalition in the UK, Mott MacDonald also supports industry, the UK government and the devolved administrations on how to deliver the infrastructure needed to reach the UK’s carbon emissions targets.

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Mike Haigh, executive chair, Mott MacDonald, said: “The science on climate change is clear: greenhouse gas emissions must be contained, and global warming kept below 1.5C. “As a business, we have already pledged to reach net-zero by 2040; an ambitious goal but one we feel is necessary given the scale of the climate challenges we face. Joining the Race To Zero reaffirms this commitment and is an important and visible signal by Mott MacDonald in support of greater ambition on climate change and towards a successful outcome at COP26.” “We bring solutions that reduce carbon emissions to our clients by default, but we know it’s not enough to show our clients how to reduce their carbon emissions, we must also be part of the solution ourselves. That’s why we are committed to ensuring our colleagues also play a part in creating the climate-stable, sustainable future they and their families deserve. We will provide them with the skills to transition to a netzero emissions economy – informing and guiding our clients, driving change in our business and adapting as citizens.” Mott MacDonald joins Race to Zero through the Business Ambition for 1.5oC, a global campaign of industry leaders and businesses that have committed to set ambitious science-based emissions reductions targets. Organisations that join the campaign commit to reach netzero value chain emissions by no later than 2050 while also setting short-term science-based emissions targets.

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Company News AFFINITY WATER MIGRATING OVER 70 PROJECTS TO ASITE FOLLOWING MULTI-YEAR DEAL Asite will support the UK’s largest water-only supplier, in its daily delivery of 950 million litres of water to more than 3.6 million people Asite is proud to be supporting Affinity Water, the UK’s largest water-only supplier, in its commitment to deliver high-quality water services to communities across the UK. Affinity Water will be utilizing the Asite Project Portfolio Management (PPM) solution over their five-year Asset Management Period (AMP). In particular, the Asite Contract Management solution will be deployed across all Affinity Water’s capital works projects to assist with the delivery of an ambitious investment program. Over 70 live projects will be migrated onto the Asite Platform. The Asite Contract Management solution allows for real-time visibility and control across the contract process supported by built-in workflows, allowing users to efficiently manage compensation events and build reports to suit their requirements. Supported by comprehensive risk control methodologies, Asite offers risk profiling across all projects and complete financial management. Affinity Water will also benefit from the platform’s centralized auditable view of contract events. Owned by a consortium of longterm investors comprising of the Allianz Group, HICL (managed by InfraRed Capital Partners), and DIF, Affinity Water provides on average 950 million liters of water

each day to a population of more than 3.6 million people. The water provider’s Wholesale Investment plan for AMP7, which covers 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2025, provides for a total planned expenditure of £1.4 billion, allowing the company to deliver on its statutory obligations, outcomes, and performance commitments for customers and the environment. This also includes £347.2 million of investments on environmental enhancements. Additionally, Affinity Water is focused on improving the security of its supply for the future while reducing customer demand. Supply-side investments include the development of a new regional reservoir working with Thames Water, installing conditioning treatment for water from Grafham WTW, and putting in place a new strategic transfer route to move water abstracted from the River Thames further north in their central region as part of phase one of its Water 2040 agenda. Asite has vast experience across the water and utilities market, supporting some of the biggest players worldwide. This includes providing the CDE for Melbourne Water’s $100million Sewer Relining Program, which will see Asite support the upgrade over 15.9 kilometers of aging sewer pipes across the region, and for Severn Trent Water to work on the company’s existing and upcoming projects.

NEBOSH LAUNCHES A NEW QUALIFICATION TO BOOST HEALTH AND SAFETY IN CONSTRUCTION SECTOR NEBOSH, one of the world’s leading health and safety awarding bodies, has launched a new two-week qualification for the construction sector. Health and Safety Management for Construction will give learners the skills they need to take on health and safety responsibilities. Laying the foundations for healthier and safer construction sites, qualification holders will also be better able to influence their on-site colleagues to work more safely; gaining the confidence and technical know-how to challenge unsafe behaviours and offer practical solutions. NEBOSH Health and Safety Management for Construction is available in both UK and International variants. The UK version is closely aligned to Construction (Design & Management) (CDM) Regulations whilst the international option references ILO guidance. Whichever option is chosen, the qualification goes beyond legislation to focus on best practice so that learners can develop great health and safety practices. NEBOSH Chief Operating Officer, Dee Arp, said:

The very hands-on nature of construction sites is reflected in the new Health and Safety Management for Construction, one of NEBOSH’s most vocational qualifications. Everything people will learn is geared towards practical application back on a construction project. It’s not just for site workers moving into a safety role either – our use of case studies and scenario assessments mean that people looking to move into the construction sector can take the qualification too. Designed to reflect the highly practical nature of construction, learners will cover a broad range of topics from excavation, demolition and fire to culture, change and psychological health. Everything they need to make a construction site healthier and safer! This practical emphasis is continued in the assessment. Learners will be asked to complete a 48-hour assessment based on a real-life scenario to really reflect the requirements of a construction health and safety professional. James Irwin, Director of Irwin & Colton, is a specialist recruiter for the profession. He added: “NEBOSH construction qualifications are highly sought after by employers in the construction industry. It is a real stamp of quality for those who attain it and employers know they are recruiting a candidate with a solid base of knowledge within health and safety in construction which will allow them to hit the ground running in a role.” The NEBOSH Health and Safety Management for Construction (UK and International versions) will replace NEBOSH Certificate in Construction Health and Safety. For more information about the new qualifications visit: www.nebosh.org.uk/construction-uk or www.nebosh.org.uk/construction-international

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Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 09

Project News

ST. MODWEN PUSHES ON WITH PLANS TO DELIVER MORE THAN 70,000 SQ FT OF SPACE AT ST. MODWEN PARK BROOMHALL St. Modwen Logistics has been granted permission to build more than 70,000 sq ft of logistics space at its site in South Worcester. St Modwen Park Broomhall is a 12-acre site and will be developed in several phases, with the first phase set to commence in March this year. “Two units consisting of 42,711 sq ft and 30,240 sq ft will be delivered, providing high-quality warehouse and logistics space for the area. St. Modwen has also submitted plans to build an additional 79,907 sq ft in three units for phase 2 and, if approved, will be delivered in 2022. St. Modwen’s plans could create a further 300 new jobs across the region and will be designed to meet the growing demand for warehouse and logistics space in the area. Strategically located on the southern outskirts of Worcester, the scheme is less than one mile from Junction 7 of the M5 Motorway via the A4440 Southern by-pass. The M5 provides access to the wider Midlands region, the South West of England and South Wales. This site forms part of the developer’s biggest-ever committed industrial and logistics pipeline of developments standing at 1.5m sq ft nationally.

Gemma Butler, Leasing & Development Manager at St. Modwen Logistics, said: “Worcester is already established as a prime manufacturing and logistics location with several high-profile names in the local area. St. Modwen Park Broomhall is set to be an incredibly popular scheme and the first phase of development will help meet the growing demand for high-quality space that’s ideally located.” Joint marketing agents for the scheme are Fisher German and Avison Young. Richard Tomlinson, Partner at Fisher German, added: “The plans St. Modwen have in place will be sure to attract many high-quality businesses to the area. The location and quality of the proposed units means St. Modwen Park Broomhall is already looking like it will be a highly sought-after site and we anticipate significant demand for this first phase, especially given the success of St. Modwen’s nearby Nunnery Park development which was fully let within a month of completion last year.” Tesni Thacker, Associate Director at Avison Young, added:

The demand for industrial and logistics space in this region continues to grow, so it is great to see St. Modwen working to meet that demand with a range of new, innovative, design led commercial units.

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CONSTRUCTION WORK TO BEGIN ON 145-HOME DEVELOPMENT IN MEPPERSHALL Davidsons Homes has started work on a new 145-home development in Meppershall. The site, which will be known as Woodlands Rest, will comprise a selection of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes on land west of Shefford Road, at the northern edge of the village. As well as 145 new homes, of which 51 will be provided as affordable housing, the development will include public open space and a play area. Simon Tyler, Sales Director for Davidsons Homes South Midlands, said: “Work at Woodlands Rest is now underway, and we are hoping to release the first homes for sale at the development in the spring. “The site represents a prime location for new housing, offering an attractive rural setting on the edge of Meppershall which is within

Project News

PLANNING PERMISSION GRANTED FOR NEW TOWN CENTRE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION Northamptonshire based Architects, GSSArchitecture, have successfully achieved planning permission for a new student accommodation building in Northampton town centre.

Whilst Orient House itself is not a listed building, it sits within the Boot & Shoe Conservation Area, between the Unitarian Chapel and War Memorial, which are both listed.

The proposed plans involve a new building stepping up to 3 storeys on the site of a disused industrial unit to the rear of Orient House, a building on Kettering road near Abington Square. The proposed new building will provide 5 student flats each with 5-6 beds available, creating a total of 28 beds in this sustainable town centre location. Additionally, the ground floor area of the retained Orient House building will be refurbished to provide two retail units on Kettering road.

The designs developed by GSSArchitecture have been carefully developed, considering suitability of materials and overall appearance within this conservation area. GSSArchitecture have vast experience designing student accommodation, in addition to having a specialist Heritage team with experience of working on conservation projects and listed buildings, making them well positioned to design the extension and redevelopment of Orient House, on this important and sensitive town centre location.

GSS are working alongside Dishley 101 Ltd, who are the developers responsible for the new scheme. Director at Dishley 101, Danny Innes, said, “It is fantastic news that the project has secured planning permission and we are excited to see GSS’ plans come to fruition. It’s always great to have the opportunity to redevelop a disused site in an important town centre location, creating something that is going to bring significant benefit for the town.”

Tom Jagger, Associate and Architect leading the project at GSSArchitecture, said:

We are delighted to be working on another exciting project, which continues GSS’ long history of Northampton town centre regeneration schemes. Bringing students closer to the town centre will position them closer to amenities, with the added benefit of helping to increase footfall on the high street. It has been great working with Danny Innes at Dishley 101 Ltd, and Adrian Clubbe at Whites Estate Agents and with planning approval now granted, we can look forward to the project progressing further.

commuting distance of several large towns, including Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton and Stevenage. “Residents at Woodlands Rest will also be able to travel from home to Central London in around an hour by catching direct a train from Stevenage railway station. “We have a proud history of providing highquality homes and creating new communities in desirable locations across the Midlands. As with our other developments in the region, Woodlands Rest will be a seamless extension to Meppershall, featuring houses designed to reflect the existing character of the village.

Davidsons Homes will also pay £85,000 for play equipment and further £7,920 towards waste collection.

Davidsons Homes South Midlands is currently building new homes across Warwickshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and Leicestershire.

“We hope to complete the first homes at Woodlands Rest and to start welcoming residents to this new neighbourhood by autumn.” In line with planning agreements for Woodlands Rest, Davidsons Homes will be contributing more than £1.8 million to sustain and improve local services and infrastructure. More than £1.7 million of the funding will go towards education, including £614,218 for upper schools, £500,857 towards middle schools, £497,750 for lower schools and a further £149,325 towards early years learning.

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 11

Project News KIER COMPLETES PHASE 1B OF EVERARDS BREWERY PROJECT Kier has completed work on Phase 1B of its Everards Meadows project in Leicestershire and has handed it back to its client, Everards of Leicestershire. Phase 1B is the third phase of Everards of Leicestershire’s ambitious relocation strategy, has transformed an area opposite it’s old brewery near J21 of the M1. Phase 1B included Kier constructing 862m² of new office accommodation, 1454m² of brewery floor area and 1054m² of retail, food and drink space. Kier previously delivered Phase 1A, which involved the construction of a new cycle centre and café as well as site-wide green infrastructure works to regenerate an area of previous inaccessible green space, unlocking connections to the local community and providing local

employment opportunities. This phase of the project was awarded the prestigious PROCON Regeneration Award for 2019. Martin Williamson, operations manager at Kier Regional Building North & Scotland, said: “This has been an exciting project for us to be involved in and we are delighted to have delivered this brand new home for Everards. Throughout the build we have

worked collaboratively with Everards, the design team and our local supply chain, which has allowed us to hand over a fantastic project during a particularly difficult time.

Our team has worked safely throughout COVID-19 by following the Site Operating Procedures, which have been created using guidance from the government. Tim Ward, from Everards of Leicesterhire said: “On behalf of Everards, I just wanted to express mysincere thanks to Kier for the delivery of Everards Meadows. It is by far the biggest project our independent family business have undertaken since building the Castle Acres Brewery in the early 1980’s and we wouldn’t have achieved it without Kiers professionalism, experience, expertise and above all teamwork”.

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Case Study FIBRELITE COVERS AND KPS PIPING PROVIDE LONG TERM RETROFIT SOLUTION FOR NOTTINGHAM CITY HOSPITAL’S BACKUP GENERATOR SUPPLY LINES Hilton Bodill Construction contacted Fibrelite on behalf of their client, Nottingham City Hospital, who required a lightweight and strong modular covering system for their newly re-routed service trench, which relaced the traditional heavy concrete slabs. These protect and provide access to the hospital’s backup diesel generators supply pipes (diesel and oxygen). An easyinstall, corrosion-free replacement for their previously existing steel piping was also required.

Key Issues With Previously Installed Concrete Access Covers • Heavy concrete access covers posed a risk of injury to maintenance teams and required specialist personnel/machinery for removal and replacement • Concrete covers often fracture and chip over time • Some covers would need to be modified to accommodate pipework extending from within the trench to above ground networks

Problem The previously existing concrete trench access covers were heavy, requiring specialist lifting equipment to remove and replace them: a time consuming and expensive process. Due to their weight, they also posed a risk of injury to maintenance teams (quick access to the piping is vital for maintenance and inspection). Nottingham City Hospital also wanted to replace their steel pipework with a reliable plastic piping system, eliminating the potential for corrosion and subsequent fluid egress.

Key Issues With Previously Installed Steel Pipework • Steel pipework can corrode over time, resulting in fluid egress (leaks) • The traditional steel pipework was heavy and labour intensive to work with Solution OPW’s UK technical team put together a proposal combining lightweight Fibrelite GRP composite trench covers and KPS double wall polyethylene piping, which was accepted by the contractor and end user. Key Benefits Of Fibrelite Covers For This Project: • No specialist machinery or personnel required for removal and replacement • Strength-to-weight ratio. All trench covers can be safely removed manually by two people while strong enough to withstand sustained loading • Bespoke aluminium frame section supplied by Fibrelite to fit exiting rebate – ensuring minimal upheaval to site works • Bespoke Fibrelite covers modified to include apertures accommodating pipework extending from within the trench to above ground networks • Fibrelite covers are corrosion-resistant unaffected by water, underground gasses and most chemicals

Fibrelite covers eliminate the need for specialist personnel or lifting machinery during maintenance or operation KPS’ HDPE plastic piping provides a safe, easy-install fluid transfer solution

Hilton Bodill Construction specified Fibrelite covers and KPS piping for Nottingham City Hospital refurbishment

Apertures were required in some covers to accommodate pipework connecting from within the trench to above ground works

Key Benefits Of KPS Piping For This Project: • Engineered for easy installation. Compact, installer friendly KPS fittings weld both walls of a double wall pipe simultaneously • In house and onsite installation training provided (standard for clients new to the KPS piping system) • Lightweight • Corrosion free polyethylene piping • Zero permeation (liquid/watertight)

Visit the Fibrelite website for more Fibrelite case studies

Visit the KPS website for more KPS case studies

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 13

Feature

FAILING TO PLAN IS PLANNING TO FAIL – WE MUST GET PROCUREMENT PREPARATION RIGHT There is a big focus in the Construction Playbook on procuring for value and harnessing the power of SMEs within the industry. Chief executive at Pagabo, Simon Toplass, discusses how our approach to SME relationships and treatment, and the procurement planning process will deliver on several of the core principles outlined in the playbook. Programme versus project With social value to consider as well as physical delivery costs, there is a huge education process that needs to happen led by framework providers, contractors, and consultants to help identify what best value and whole life value actually is. Framework providers like ourselves need to work with public sector organisations to

define this, looking at whole programmes rather than on a project-by-project basis. We have an important role, especially as many clients seek to use frameworks to ensure they get the best possible outcomes. This outcome-based approach is another key focus within the playbook, and it is where the creation of a gold standard for frameworks would benefit absolutely everyone working in procurement.

For example, frameworks will vary in commercial offerings, so transparency of cost will be important, to ensure contracting authorities aren’t caught out by hidden extras. In the same way that the public sector needs to consider the suitability of a consultant or contractor, it also must choose a framework provider equally as carefully. This means providers must provide simple, affordable and accessible solutions, but more than this they must be transparent about their costs and compliance as well. An excellent example of the action of looking at outcome-based approaches of a programme of work is our recently launched developer-led framework. The projects procured via this framework will be many, and lasting for many years, so all parties must work together to examine the best value – not just simple, monetary cost – beyond the construction phase and across the whole lifecycle. This whole life approach to best value enables us to embed all the key elements we need to be considering for the built environment moving forwards, from delivering true social impact on a local basis, to working towards the government’s goals for net zero carbon. This can all be outlined and embedded into the procurement process, and even within the contracts themselves as KPIs too, particularly within the NEC4 suite of contracts. Preparation is key One of the earliest lessons of my career was that the biggest enemy of good procurement is lack of time, and that rushing the preparation should be avoided at all costs. This is something that has stuck with me throughout several decades of working in procurement, and feeds into our focus on excellent, expertise-led procurement services at Pagabo.

One of the earliest lessons of my career was that the biggest enemy of good procurement is lack of time, and that rushing the preparation should be avoided at all costs. This is something that has stuck with me throughout several decades of working in procurement, and feeds into our focus on excellent, expertise-led procurement services at Pagabo. Left: Chief executive at Pagabo, Simon Toplass

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Feature What has really resonated with us about the Construction Playbook is that ten of the 14 key policies outlined fall within the first of the five phases of procurement – i.e., within the preparation and planning phase. This section alone is half of the entire 83-page playbook, so it demonstrates the old saying ‘failing to plan is planning to fail’. A huge focus must be placed on getting the preparation spot on to make sure that project success is not threatened, and the best outcomes can be achieved for all parties involved. SMEs are the future of construction The Construction Playbook ultimately aims to deliver a better and fairer industry, including prompt and fair payments – something that is really important to focus on in the conversation around SME engagement. It’s clear that the government is keen to involve SMEs, and ensure their early engagement in programmes, but it’s crucial that this involvement is fair – including proper and prompt payment. This is highlighted even further when we examine the impact of the pandemic on these businesses. Insolvency practitioner Real Business Rescue recently released its Business Distress Index for Q4 2020, with the data revealing that the number of UK SMEs in significant financial distress is now 620,000. If this isn’t startling enough, that

figure had risen by 14 per cent from the previous quarter.

and digitisation – another two key areas covered by the playbook.

Construction is second only to fishing as one of the least innovative sectors in the UK, which means we have a real opportunity to make a huge stride forward in how we do things – and SMEs are central to this. They serve as the engine room of our industry, being best placed to bring forth the new ideas, products, services and tech adoption and will help us move out of this comfortable zone where we keep to ‘this is the way we’ve always done it’.

Pagabo’s relationship with industry SMEs goes beyond simply appointing them to our frameworks. We have a set of robust KPIs in place which ensure our suppliers are working with local supply chains on every project they undertake. By putting this process in place we’re able to track both the spend on and engagement each supplier has with local SMEs.

The industry has been banging the SMEs and innovation drum for years, but the important thing is to put words into action. At Pagabo, 70 per cent of the suppliers across our ten frameworks are SMEs, and during the latest episode of our ‘Building Blocks’ podcast it was great to hear from Peter Masonbrook at Faithful+Gould that 83 per cent of its supply chain are SMEs. Willmott Dixon’s national account manager Andrew Brookes also joined the podcast discussion. He shared the various innovations taking place within the main contractor organisation, from the small pockets that are constantly happening across its live sites and offices, to larger, business-led approaches such as investment in products for standardisation

Another example of this is our work with health tech brand Moodbeam. We’re currently undertaking a series of trials to understand how to best integrate its wearable wellbeing device into our on-site health, safety and wellbeing strategies in the construction sector. Simply put, we cannot afford to lose SMEs within our industry. They will be central to building the future – both literally and figuratively for the sector – and to deliver on the principles outlined in the playbook. You can listen to the most recent episodes of Pagabo’s ‘Building Blocks’ podcast on Anchor and YouTube, and for more information please visit https://www.pagabo.co.uk/.

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Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 15

Latest News

SOUTHWARK CONSTRUCTION SKILLS CENTRE MOVES TO CANADA WATER Southwark Construction Skills Centre (SCSC) is moving from its original base at Elephant Park, to a new home at Canada Water.

many people learn new skills and train to gain great jobs in the construction industry – we’ve simply had the best experience.

SCSC has been at the site in Elephant Park since 2016 and has been supported by major contractor Lendlease in providing training and upskilling to those interested in a career in construction. During this time, SCSC has contributed £40million in social value to the local economy, training more than 10,000 residents, and helped to create more than 3,000 jobs in the construction sector.

“The Skills Centre now looks forward to doing the same again for the community at Canada Water.”

Now the community-centred skills and training centre, supported by Southwark Council and run by The Skills Centre, is set to move to its new home at Hawker House, Canada Water in April, in support of the British Land Canada Water Masterplan.

SCSC will be offering the same opportunities at Canada Water as it did in Elephant Park, with employment prospects, apprenticeships and pre-employment training for local residents, as well as continuing its schools’ programme; inspiring Southwark school children to consider the varied jobs on offer through a career in construction. The move is a joint initiative between The Skills Centre, Southwark Council, British Land, and Art Invest.

Jon Howlin, Managing Director of The Skills Centre, which runs SCSC, said of the move: “The aim was always to move the training facility to support additional projects in Southwark and this is the first move it has made since opening in 2016 – and we’re hugely excited about becoming a meaningful part of the community at Canada Water.

Councillor Rebecca Lury, Southwark Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance, Business & Jobs, said: “Thousands of our residents have walked through the doors of Southwark Construction Skills Centre at Elephant Park to receive expert training and support, with many going on to secure real jobs at sites across the Borough.

“It has been an honour to work with the Elephant Park community and to help so

“With a 20-year programme of construction work at Canada Water, one of the Council’s

22 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

largest regeneration schemes, this is an ideal location for creating an exciting training venue for our residents. I’m excited to see SCSC and The Skills Centre go from strength to strength, with the help of new partners British Land and Art-Invest to create opportunities for residents from across the Borough.” Canada Water Masterplan is a joint initiative between Southwark Council and British Land, working closely with Art-Invest, to develop a 53-acre scheme that will deliver workspace to accommodate around 20,000 jobs, retail, leisure, entertainment, education and community spaces. There will be around 3,000 new homes, of which 35% will be affordable, as well as 12 acres of open space and a new town centre for Southwark; the first new town centre built in London for more than 100 years. Symon Bacon, Development Director for British Land, said of SCSC supporting the Canada Water Masterplan: “We’re delighted to contribute bringing the Southwark Construction Skills Centre to Canada Water. “The Centre will provide a local front-door and resource of information, training and guidance for residents interested in accessing some of the many construction employment and training opportunities that the Canada Water Masterplan will generate.

Latest News We know there is demand and interest locally, and we’ve already been able to support several local unemployed residents into training and roles with our enabling contractors. We look forward to working closely with The Skills Centre to maximise the number of residents from the local area and wider Southwark growing their skills and being part of delivering the Canada Water Masterplan. “We know there is demand and interest locally, and we’ve already been able to support several local unemployed residents into training and roles with our enabling contractors. We look forward to working closely with The Skills Centre to maximise the number of residents from the local area and wider Southwark growing their skills and being part of delivering the Canada Water Masterplan.” Construction of the new centre in Canada Water will begin in April, with a planned opening on June 21st. Opening hours will be from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Friday, with community-based activities planned for Saturdays. Ali Abbas, Managing Director and Head of UK at Art-Invest Real Estate said, “We were drawn to Canada Water due to its thriving community and real sense of opportunity, which we have been eager to both experience and support first-hand since we committed to the gateway Canada Water Dockside site neighbouring the wider Canada Water Masterplan in July 2020. “Through extensive meetings with the local community, albeit virtually, we have heard how much of a positive difference the Construction Skills Centre makes to Southwark and how this will truly benefit Canada Water residents in the future. “We are thrilled that we have been able to contribute to such a key commitment early on as we look to provide a further 10,000 jobs in our development of Canada Water Dockside.

MACE CONSTRUCTS A SMARTER WAY TO WORK WITH REALWEAR WEARABLES DURING PANDEMIC Enabling a reduction of travel by 75% with RealWear device running Microsoft Teams by its Façade Team, the construction leader plans to deploy more than 150 devices over the next few months RealWear, Inc., the global leader of handsfree head-mounted wearables, today announced that Mace Group (‘Mace’), a global consultancy and construction firm headquartered in London, deployed RealWear’s assisted reality wearable computers running voice-enabled Microsoft Teams, paving the way forward for the global construction industry. Throughout this global pandemic, the voice-activated RealWear HMT-1 wearable device has enabled hundreds of its workers and clients to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and reduce its carbon footprint via using the device for remote inspections during the construction process. Mace works on a number of construction projects both in the UK and across the globe. When the pandemic hit and travel restrictions came into effect, Mace envisioned an entirely new and safer way to inspect building façades. To operate as effectively and as safely as possible under seemingly indefinite social distancing restrictions, it needed a solution that would enable inspection work to still be carried out but with minimal people onsite than normally permitted. RealWear’s assisted reality head-mounted wearable computers require only a single site inspector to be physically present, while multiple others ‘view’ the site clearly and remotely from their own location, via a feed that streams from the innovative headset directly to the viewer’s handheld or laptop computer. The technology negates the need to physically travel to a site, while also delivering on Mace’s requirement for its workforce to be fully connected through remote collaboration. Furthermore, the deployment has banished the logistical and

planning complexities of trying to coordinate the diaries of several site inspectors to be present at the same time on the same day. Since the completion of the deployment this month Mace has been able to reduce in-person site visits, and its Façade team has seen a 75% reduction in travel; not only has this resulted in a reduction in carbon emissions, but the time saved has freed up staff to be more productive during the course of their day. Following an in-depth consultation with RealWear partner, SystemActive, which involved various demos via video conference, Mace selected RealWear’s purpose built, voice enabled HMT-1 over other solutions available in the market, including smart glasses. The RealWear headsets met Mace’s requirements for no compromises on safety, for hands-free operation and the ability to clip to the side of hard hats. The deployment began in June 2020. SystemActive worked with Mace’s IT team to create a bespoke operating system for the HMT-1, which was tailored so that many of its out-of-the-box features could only be used for collaborating with clients and colleagues who were not physically present on site. Once the operating system was set up, the wearable headsets arrived on site and were ready to use. Training from both RealWear and SystemActive included on-boarding sessions to bring Mace’s personnel up to speed on how to log on to video conferencing and join meetings, and a walkthrough of the functions of the camera and video stream. Based on this level of success, Mace plans to surpass the 150-unit mark over the next few months as it ramps up deployment of RealWear’s HMT-1 globally. The company has recently procured more units to go out to one of its sectors in Peru to help with monitoring of a project and its various phases, including safety inspections.

Mace was responsible for the construction of the iconic Shard in London

“We very much look forward to working further with Southwark Council, British Land, The Skills Centre and local residents in advancing the Borough’s post-pandemic recovery.” Local residents will also have access to a digital library, basic digital training as well as use of computer equipment, which will all be free. The centre will be run in a Covid-safe way, with Covid safety training also provided.

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 23

Feature

SOCIAL VALUE NO LONGER A ‘NICE TO HAVE’ FOR CONSTRUCTION SCHEMES Social value has long been considered a ‘nice to have’ when it comes to construction projects, but thanks to the introduction of the government’s Construction Playbook in December 2020, that is starting to change according to an industry expert. Chief operating officer at Social Profit Calculator, Sarah Coughlan, says that the playbook has given public organisations across the board confidence to demand social value is embedded into their schemes – and that the private sector is also starting to take note.

taking place via a framework where social value forms a key part of reporting.

There is no doubt that the construction industry has slowly been embracing social value and working hard to include it within the scope of a project, but it hasn’t necessarily been put at the heart of delivery. Instead, it was seen as something that ‘should’ be included but wasn’t essential – unless delivery was

However, we are now very much starting to see that shift from social value being something that must be ‘considered’ to that which must be ‘explicitly evaluated’ and built into a project from the outset – across the whole of the public sector, not just those schemes being procured by central government.

Embracing a change in ethos Since the introduction of the playbook, however, this is starting to change. The difference when it comes to publicly procured works really is like night and day. Social value is already of huge importance when it comes to framework appointments with providers such as Pagabo requiring it, but this approach hasn’t necessarily been replicated elsewhere.

Sarah Coughlan, Chief operating officer at Social Profit Calculator

We know that social value looks different to everyone and what benefits one community wouldn’t suit another, but there is now clarity that was lacking previously and that has already started to have a positive impact. In legislating at central government level, we are seeing a ‘trickle down’ effect to local authorities and into the private sector as the discussion about social value has been brought to the fore. We are starting to see that the playbook has had a really positive impact on local authorities too. While it relates specifically to centrally procured public works, it has given many local authorities added confidence to demand that their suppliers deliver against the policies outlined by central government and put social value at the heart of delivery. This isn’t something we have seen before and it is an important shift. It isn’t just the public sector that is making change either. The private sector is also becoming increasingly keen to ‘do good’ through development – there is a recognition that social value isn’t just something that those working in the public sector do, but also something the wider industry must take responsibility for, and provides an opportunity for the private sector too. Understanding social value In the past, social value has been somewhat of a mystery that often wasn’t fully understood, but again this is really starting to change now. Previously, a monetary figure would have been put against it for a project, but that simply didn’t cover the full breadth of what social value means and the impact it has on local communities in terms of things like job creation, environmental issues and the long-lasting legacy left behind. This is probably the biggest change that is taking place at the moment; there is a real move away from the need to monetise everything as we look towards a much more holistic view of what social value entails. Annex A of the playbook outlines five key themes for considering social value: COVID-19 recovery, tackling economic inequality, fighting climate change, equal opportunity and wellbeing, and make it very clear what ‘good’ looks like within those different areas which is a much-

24 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

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needed change that will undoubtedly help shape what social value looks like for a particular scheme. In giving structure to social value calculation, much of the mystery that has previously enshrouded it has been removed. Organisations procuring works can now much more easily consider what it is that is important to them and the communities in which they are active and consider their priorities more effectively within the matrix outlined by the playbook – something which aligns well with the early engagement of local supply chain and its knowledge of local priorities. We know that social value looks different to everyone and what benefits one

The key is collaboration. If businesses are more forthcoming with existing information, and work as a collaborative collective to develop these benchmarks, we can get a true picture of what good and true social value means to every area of the country.

17/03/2021 13:36:57

community wouldn’t suit another, but there is now clarity that was lacking previously and that has already started to have a positive impact. In legislating at central government level, we are seeing a ‘trickle down’ effect to local authorities and into the private sector as the discussion about social value has been brought to the fore.

sector which puts social value at the heart of delivery, but it is important that we continue to move forwards and see the industry embrace real social value and demonstrating its real impact.

This is what we’re always striving to do with our software, ensuring that we work to make improvements in line with the latest updates and trends so that we Legislation to require ‘doing good’ can provide the true measurement on This drive towards really understanding social value. We’re also looking at this what social value means for our more closely with a future-forward vision communities and the requirement for through theprint development offrom our ‘Smart Sharp, high-resolution quality Sojet ‘explicit evaluation’ of social value is a Construction Calculator’. This sees us printers. Hand-held or fixed position. hugely important one – and it is very working with companies from throughout encouraging that we are seeing local sales@timbermark.co.uk 0870 803 1877 the supply chain to| gain historical data on authorities and other organisations taking Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) on board the new guidance. projects in order to create a benchmark moving forwards for new and upcoming However, if this progress is something projects. we want to see continued and replicated across the industry, it is vital that the legislation extends to cover all public sector procurement. While we have certainly seen many local authorities embracing it, only by legislating will we see changes adopted wholesale. Measuring social impact The progress that has been made since the release of the playbook has been significant and is paving the way towards a more responsible built environment

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 25

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Feature

By Paul Israel, Director at Simply

365 DAYS HAVE PASSED SINCE THE UK FIRST WENT INTO LOCKDOWN BUT WHAT IMPACT HAS THIS HAD ON CONSTRUCTION – AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE SECTOR? We can all agree a lot has changed in a year as we reflect on the anniversary of the first COVID-19 lockdown. Businesses and individuals have had to navigate through such difficult circumstances, learning how to adapt whilst showing resilience. Many have lost their jobs, lost loved ones and had to deal with incredible stress and pressure. We’ve switched to working from home, changed our working practices, found challenges with efficiencies or struggled to keep afloat. Ultimately, this has had a major impact on workplace culture and changed the day-to-day running of businesses across the spectrum. As a leading environmental services specialist, we operate within the construction, waste management and events sectors. Over the past year, we’ve seen how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected businesses, with the events industry particularly hardest hit. However, despite this we’ve found that even in abnormal times our services have

remained essential for the smooth running of some industries, and in some instances we found ourselves working at a higher capacity than ever before. The construction industry is a case in point. The construction sector has seen its total activity index perform consistently above 50 since June 2020 showing significant signs of growth. We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have played a role in this growth, as a supplier, which at the end of the day has helped to enable our business to continue operations as much as possible. Over the past year, Simply has continued to provide environmental solutions, including fresh water deliveries and toilet waste removal, to a range of construction sites. This is in addition to supporting NHS COVID-19 testing facilities through the provision of environmental solutions – a new client base for us as a business which has highlighted how our sector is able to adapt and flex in times of need.

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Feature It has been vital during the pandemic that we provide our services quickly and efficiently in order to relieve the pressure on our clients. This has allowed our clients in the construction and waste management sectors to continue to work effectively from a health and safety aspect. There has been a heightened focus on hygiene with a vital commitment towards protecting the health and safety of employees, especially those out on site. COVID-19 brought in new measures to wash our hands regularly, adhere to social distancing rules, wear masks and avoid contact with others. The Construction Leadership Council’s Site Operating Procedures changed frequently throughout the year, as did Government guidelines, meaning that it could be difficult to keep track of new legislation, restrictions and policies. As a result, Simply, alongside many other businesses and suppliers in the construction, environmental and waste management sectors, had to think on our feet and keep abreast of the slightest changes to ensure that we were always delivering a consistent service which met the changing needs of our clients. We have seen a shift in not just Site Managers, whose responsibility it is to organise hygiene facilities across sites, but also other individuals who are becoming more conscious about sanitation too. What was once a tick box exercise amongst most construction firms has now become a top priority, and quite rightly so. The introduction of hot hand wash stations, increased portable toilet capacity and cleaning frequency as well as anti-bacterial gel stands, has meant that we have seen a significant improvement in hygiene practices across the industry.

There is no doubt in my mind that we form part the backbone of regenerating the country’s economy whilst delivering a range of Governmental policies in terms of housing, infrastructure and much more. I predict that this standard of hygiene will remain in place for years to come. Moving forward, our industry will continue to prove itself to be an integral part of the UK’s recovery plan. There is no doubt in my mind that we form part the backbone of regenerating the country’s economy whilst delivering a range of Governmental policies in terms of housing, infrastructure and much more.

With the construction and waste management industries showing no signs of slowing down, it also highlights a definite skills shortage going forward which is important for businesses to address. With many people having suffered job losses, Simply has been in the lucky position of growing its team to create more job opportunities for local people. This has shown how it is also a great time for those who may have been furloughed, or are looking to change career path, to search for positions within a sector that should provide a stable and lengthy career. What’s more, with 43% of 16 – 25-yearolds feeling like it will be harder than ever to get a job in the next couple of years, it is so important to showcase the careers available within our industry to safeguard the future of the younger generation and provide them with job security. Continued >>>

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 27

Feature Construction has a range of opportunities for both men and women when it comes to training programmes and job roles available and this will only improve as we look to attract more talent to the industry. Simply continues to invest in regular mentoring and training courses for its team to harness skills and allow individuals to reach their full potential.

The pandemic taught businesses, in most sectors, the importance of preparing for the unexpected, changing inventory needs and requirements to readjust. We fully understood the necessity in being able to adapt quickly so that we could protect our company and our team. This flexibility is something I believe will be here to stay as the construction sector continues to change its operating procedures and move forward into what is so often referred to as a ‘new’ normal.

The importance of seeing the value in a team, whatever sector you work in, has also very much been at the forefront of business over the past year and I believe employee wellbeing will continue to be a huge focus within the next coming years. In terms of the construction industry, it is largely well known for being male dominated and with this comes a stigma around mental health and men not speaking up and sharing their feelings. Simply is a Mindful Employer, recognising the need to safeguard the mental health of our team – something which has been incredibly important during the global pandemic. We also have many policies in place and an on-site company gym and breakout room which offers our team members space for time out at any point of their day. It is important, going forward, to create an open workplace where team members feel they can honestly communicate and voice their concerns. COVID-19 has presented us with an opportunity to end the stigma around mental health that can sometimes be apparent within the construction sector and I want my team to know that they can come to me for a chat whenever they feel it is needed. As a Director, I am committed to putting the wellbeing of my team at the forefront of business, making sure that open communication is received from the top down so we can help to create positive

28 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

change and ensure everyone feels valued and cared for. I feel that this is an important point which other Directors and Managers should also take on board. Being able to work throughout the pandemic, with a sense of job security, very much increased our team’s wellbeing. Of course there have been many unavoidable challenges, such as the need for social distancing and PPE, but the sense of teamwork really shone through. I am truly grateful to all the Simply team for all of their hard work and dedication towards going above and beyond for our clients. The increased workload during the pandemic was something that we could have never expected but Simply showed its resilience when it came to providing essential and emergency services across London and the South East. We saw ourselves adapting our offering, servicing new clients, whilst seeing an increase in orders for portable toilet and welfare unit hire. The pandemic taught businesses, in most sectors, the importance of preparing for the unexpected, changing inventory needs and requirements to readjust. We fully understood the necessity in being able to adapt quickly so that we could protect our company and our team. This flexibility is something I believe will be here to stay as the construction sector continues to change its operating procedures and move forward into what is so often referred to as a ‘new’ normal.

THE COMMON ASSESSMENT STANDARD FROM CHAS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW The rollout of a new data-sharing agreement between the Common Assessment Standard providers means the benefits of qualifying for and specifying the scheme are greater than ever. CHAS, Managing Director Ian McKinnon explains more. What is the Common Assessment Standard? Since its launch in 2019, the Common Assessment Standard has fast become the construction industry’s gold standard for prequalification. Led by Build UK, with the support of CECA, the scheme has been designed to replace multiple assessment schemes with one comprehensive industryagreed questionnaire, based on existing prequalification questionnaires, including PAS 91. Previously the PQ system was complex and repetitive, with an estimated 180,000 specialist contractors required to produce over two million pieces of paper every year for 5,000 contractors at a cost of up to £1 billion. The Common Assessment Standard cuts through this inefficiency while helping the industry manage risk across a wider range of criteria such as sustainability, modern slavery and financial performance. Who specifies the Common Assessment Standard? As the Common Assessment standard is resetting a long-established system, a phased approach is being taken to its rollout. This allows companies to adopt

with other approved assessment bodies, the data-sharing agreement means the details of everyone who passes the assessment can be accessed via any of the providers, regardless of which assessment body carries out the audit. For CHAS contractors, this means they only need to complete the Common Assessment Standard once a year with CHAS to qualify for a wide range of work rather than having to sign up to multiple schemes - saving time and money. Meanwhile, clients looking for pre-qualified contractors simply specify the Common Assessment Standard to find contractors accredited to a single, consistent industryagreed standard. Clients can access a database of these contractors via the services of any of the assessment bodies such as the free CHAS Client Portal.

Managing Director Ian McKinnon

the Common As-sessment Standard at a time that suits them; however, it has already gained strong support from both the public and private sectors. The Crown Commercial Service (CCS) requires that contractors appointed to its seven-year framework assess their supply chains using the Common Assessment Standard, and it is expected to feature in the details of the Government’s new Construction Playbook. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) also supports the scheme. Many major contractors have also moved swiftly to specifying the new standard, with this figure expected to rise now that the data-sharing agreement is in place. What’s the relevance of the data-sharing agreement? CHAS was the first accreditation body to offer the Common Assessment Standard in 2019 via the CHAS Premier and CHAS Premier Assured packages. Although contractors could now take the assessment

Why choose CHAS? As well as being the founder of third party accreditation and a trusted authority on supply chain risk management, CHAS is renowned for providing a friendly and efficient service and high customer satisfaction levels. CHAS contractors receive additional benefits such as access to e-learning resources, discounted fuel and shopping schemes and business insurance. CHAS is also committed to helping contractors who are not yet ready to complete the Common Assessment Standard to work towards higher levels of accreditation. Meanwhile, it is free, quick and easy for clients to sign up to the CHAS Client Portal where they will also find a suite of complimentary supply chain management and procurement tools. How can you find out more? To find out more about qualifying for, or specifying, the Common Assessment Standard, visit www.chas.co.uk or call 0345 521 9111

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 29

Interview STUART CLARK TALKS TO CONSTRUCTION UK MAGAZINE ABOUT THE TOP FIVE ISSUES FACING CONSTRUCTION SECTOR COMPANIES AS RESTRICTIONS EASE AND THE ECONOMY STARTS TO RECOVER Increasingly, nimble, smart, innovative companies stand out from the crowd. Take, for instance, Livingston-based Brewster Brothers, which has positioned itself at the heart of the circular economy as a successful construction recycling operator. After several incarnations, ranging from farming to property, haulage and residential development, the family firm now specialises in processing excavation and demolition waste and selling sustainable building materials to construction sites across Scotland. Or, Paisley-based Safer Scotland, which has used the latest technology to transform site security from its traditional man-guarding model to a remote and efficient operation employing techniques of facial recognition, mask recognition cameras, automatic number plate recognition and up-to-the-minute CCTV. Or, again, Cumbernauld-based Indeglas, which has developed links with the world’s leading glass manufacturers to push the boundaries of creativity in the application of internal glass as well as providing construction partners with a trusted, approved supplier. All three are dynamic Russell & Russell clients which, while many other services and manufacturing suffered badly, have bounced back from the Spring 2020 shutdown. What they have in common, aside from the commercial guidance we contribute, is a willingness to embrace the new and, as the pace of change in the construction inexorably quickens; this will prove to be an invaluable asset.

Reverse Charge VAT changes how cash flows through the supply chain as subcontractors will no longer charge VAT, which currently they can hold on to until it is time to pay it to HMRC. Instead, only the firm at the top of the supply chain will charge VAT to the end client, which will then be paid to HMRC.

More time in planning has also allowed firms to critically examine inefficiencies and challenge costing assumptions – directing them to the conclusion that doing less work at the right price instead of lots of work at the wrong price can have a positive and healthy effect on margins. Looking at the obstacles which have been placed in their paths, construction companies in the UK might have been expected to have endured a rotten year; but in many cases, as they advance warily into 2021, the opposite is true. But, as so many businesses clear backlogs of work and look for new opportunities, forward-thinking firms need to be aware of the huge number of issues which could blow them off course, not to mention the temporarily benign conditions which could navigate them to calmer waters. Here are the Top Five issues that should be on the boardroom agenda as the building season starts once again to pick up pace.

1. & 2. CASHFLOW, CASHFLOW, CASHFLOW. The money that is flowing in and out of a business can be just as important as profit when it comes to determining performance. As one of the Big Four accounting firms says, managing a small business without a cashflow forecast is a bit like driving at night with sunglasses on. You may be going in the right direction, but not for long. This is particularly relevant at the moment as the Government introduced Reverse Charge VAT legislation on March 1, despite strong warnings from trade associations up and down the country that it will restrict cashflow, especially for smaller firms, at the worst possible time. Reverse Charge VAT changes how cash flows through the supply chain as subcontractors will no longer charge VAT,

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which currently they can hold on to until it is time to pay it to HMRC. Instead, only the firm at the top of the supply chain will charge VAT to the end client, which will then be paid to HMRC. The changes will particularly impact SMEs that provide both services and materials, because they will have to pay VAT on the materials they purchase, but will not be paid the VAT by their customers. For a significant number of companies this will be unsustainable.

3. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS. One of the idiosyncrasies of the bizarre year we have just lived through is that some businesses which have had to spend more time planning safe, sociallydistanced working have actually seen their margins improve. This is most likely a direct consequence of looking at projects in more detail – on top of dealing with PPE, signage, distancing, guidance and training – and breaking work down, consciously or not, in line with the principles of Adam Smith’s division of labour. More time in planning has also allowed firms to critically examine inefficiencies and challenge costing assumptions – directing them to the conclusion that doing less work at the right price instead of lots of work at the wrong price can have a positive and healthy effect on margins. It is important to get reporting sorted, to root out under-priced or inefficient projects, to extract yourself from lossmaking contracts and to be able to clearly identify the margin on each job.

4. TAX PLANNING. Firms emerging from last year’s restrictions and considering capital expenditure should be ready to make the most of the current temporary increases to capital allowances. Another Covid-related opportunity is the extension to March 2022 of the VAT payment deferral scheme. If a company has already taken advantage of deferrals, it has the choice of paying the full amount before March 31 this year or opting in to the VAT deferral new payment scheme, which allows for interest-free instalments.

Interview Another Covid-related opportunity is the extension to March 2022 of the VAT payment deferral scheme. If a company has already taken advantage of deferrals, it has the choice of paying the full amount before March 31 this year or opting in to the VAT deferral new payment scheme, which allows for interest-free instalments. Companies should also be aware of the possibilities of research and development tax reliefs which, contrary to some popular misconceptions, are not confined to scientists in white coats. They can relate to processes and systems, or simply innovative ways of doing things, and can even generate a welcome lump sum. Companies should also be aware of the possibilities of research and development tax reliefs which, contrary to some popular misconceptions, are not confined to scientists in white coats. They can relate to processes and systems, or simply innovative ways of doing things, and can even generate a welcome lump sum. Tax liability should never come as a shock to anyone, and it is only responsible to work out your tax percentage across all obligations and make sure an adequate amount is lodged in the tax account.

5. GUARANTEES. Many people buying construction services are driven, by instinct or necessity, towards the lowest bid, but they can be persuaded in the direction of a higher fee if they feel that the quality of the work is likely to be of a significantly better standard. For many responsible small firms, the professional imperative to get it right for clients is an effective guarantee in and of itself, in terms of domestic construction work, the worth of the guarantee often comes down to the contractor’s personal integrity. In bigger work, a subcontractor’s personal promise of added value – for instance, that his teams will arrive on site on time and in good order and leave the site in good condition – can often be enough to secure a higher price and improve sales conversion rates. Here’s to a 2021 that we can build on!

Stuart Clark is Managing Director at Russell & Russell Business Advisers, based in Glasgow.

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Women in Construction Feature April Halligan

YHN SUPPORTS WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION Your Homes Newcastle (YHN) is celebrating Women in Construction Week by encouraging women to apply for new repairs and construction jobs. Women in Construction Week case studies April Halligan is 22 and originally from Birmingham. She moved to Newcastle, where her mum’s family is from, around ten years ago and started an apprenticeship with Newcastle City Council five years ago – she completed that over a year ago. She works as a bricklayer, with typical jobs including concreting and laying flagstones, building garden walls and fitting new drains when laying a new pavement. April said: “I’ve been wanting to do bricklaying since I was kid. I’ve always been fascinated with it. I was six and my grandad took me to a building site he was working on and that just stuck with me for the rest of my life. “I remember seeing scaffolding and big buildings; obviously I didn’t know what they were at the time, but I was really excited. My mum used to tell my grandad off for coming back and forth in the house with his muddy riggers on and I never really knew why – now I get told off for the same thing! “My favourite toy as a kid was Lego and I just used to love building things with the blocks. But at school, I never felt like construction

was an option for me to go into because there weren’t any other females who were interested in this profession.” How does she find working in a job that has traditionally been seen to be a male role?

For me, I think it has changed and a lot of it depends on you as an individual. Don’t get me wrong, I love getting dressed up in my heels, but I’ve got four brothers and grew up around males. Since working at the council, I’ve never felt uncomfortable and always had praise from the lads telling me it’s great I decided to get into it. “I have had a lot of customers who question me when I turn up to the job… “What are you doing here?” “I’ve come to do your pointing” “Well how are you going to lift the plant plots?” “Quite often I don’t get thanked by individuals when I’m working with someone on a job – they say “thanks mate, you’ve done a cracking

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job” but don’t address me. But then others are really complimentary. One man was driving down the street and stopped and said: “you’re a credit to us all, never seen a female bricklayer, it’s brilliant and you should be so proud of yourself”. “It would be great if more women were encouraged into the industry – I think a lot of women may think it’s too hard or that they’ll get judged, but it really isn’t like that. I like the challenge of coming across something I haven’t done before and then standing back and looking at the finished product i.e. I’ve just built a wall! “Why shouldn’t we do this work? We do just as good a job!” Hannah Porter is 26 and from Northumberland, she’s been an electrician with Newcastle City Council for almost ten years. She said: “I applied for an apprenticeship a few weeks after leaving school – without any interview experience I knew I would struggle trying to get job experience elsewhere. I didn’t expect to be offered the apprenticeship a few days later, which was amazing! “I chose electrical as my uncle is an electrician and, at the time, he was rewiring a research centre in Antarctica, which proved to me you could take this profession anywhere. I never ever thought I would end up in construction,

Women in Construction Feature “I was always leaning towards an art and design-based job, however, I knew at age 16 it would be a great step into a job where I had something I could fall back on if needed. “I personally think leaving school at 16 is such a young age to know exactly what you want to do in life, and an apprenticeship for me was a great thing – it built my personal skills going straight into an adult workplace, it was something practical which I knew I was good at, and it was a full time paid job at the end of the day; it meant I could buy my own driving lessons and save up to travel which at the time I thought was amazing. I chose electrical based on my uncle, knowing I could always ask him if I ever needed help through it. “This definitely wasn’t a career presented to me growing up; the school I attended never advised apprenticeships as something to do once you left school, we were always pressured into attending 6th form/college/ university. A skill-based apprenticeship was never spoken about, which to me, now, I find very strange as I always tell younger people to head towards apprenticeships rather than the other options.

Schools these days are very academic based, but for someone like me who wasn’t very good with the pressure of exams and coursework yet practically was really good, an apprenticeship worked. I got paid to learn on the job whilst having time to attend college, with support from every direction either from my mentors at work or by my college tutors. My school advised apprenticeships as something you do if you fail in school, but it’s the total opposite; I needed my main GCSEs, I needed people skills, I needed the mind set of wanting to work. In no way is it easier or harder than the other options you’re faced with leaving school, it just all depends on how your mind works; with me I’m much more hands on and practical that’s why it worked for me.

“Addressing this is actually something I have been involved in since I started my apprenticeship, with JTL who were the learning provider for apprenticeships. We got together a group of women across the country who worked in construction and we would meet up regularly to discuss how we could raise awareness of the lack of female apprentices in this industry, we even held an event in the House of Commons when I was 18 to promote our initiative/programme. “Still to this day it is a struggle for women in construction – the simple things like female uniforms have been hard to get hold off, female toilets on sites and even in main construction buildings are things we’ve had to ask for. “Every job you can predict they will say “eeeh a woman”! Me and my colleague female colleagues always laugh about it, especially if we are paired up on a job together and the customer is taken back by it. The majority of customers are really great about it, quite supportive of females working in construction, some have said that they wish they could have gone into a trade, yet it wasn’t supported. “I love the days where we are appreciated, as does everyone, however when we get a job and the customer doesn’t think anything different about you being female, it brings a bit of normality to your job role. “It’s also my favourite job when you get elderly tenants who really enjoy having the company, especially this past year through this pandemic, it has been a really lonely time for some people so I’m more than happy to chat away whilst I’m there doing a job for the customer, it puts a smile on their face and I could have been the only person they’ll see that week. I do like seeing people and when you make their day for something as small as fixing their light fitting or getting their cooker working, it just makes your day as well – I believe it takes nothing to be nice to people, and that’s when I enjoy my job.” Hannah Porter

How important does Hannah think it is that more women are encouraged to work in the industry? “It’s really important; because we need to knock down this barrier that thinks woman can’t do a practical, hands on job in construction. There have been times where it has been tough, where I’ve not been as strong as some of the lads, but over the years I have got much better at knowing my strengths in my job. “It also isn’t supported enough in schools I think, no girl is asked “Do you want to be an electrician or plumber when you grow up?”.

To any young women or girls reading this and thinking about a career in construction I would say go for it! The support is definitely there in the workplace and, if it isn’t, don’t stand for that. I couldn’t have finished my apprenticeship without the support from everyone at work. I’ve never come across one male that I work alongside who has said I shouldn’t be here or doing this job, they have all helped me along the way. “It also grows your people skills; you deal with customers and work colleagues every day. Don’t focus on the hard things that you may come across, like someone disagreeing that a female is in construction or that you’re having to ask for help because you might not be able to lift something on your own, it’s all about showing all of your skills and what you can bring to the workforce. “If more women stepped into construction, then the façade that it is masculine job would be gone I suppose.”

And how does she feel about working in an area where the majority of her colleagues are men and there is an expectation from customers that a man will do her job? “In the ten years I have been here it has changed for the better, yet in my opinion it will always be seen as a masculine environment. Not a day goes by when I don’t knock at a door and the response is “Eeeh a woman”. It’s not the known thing for women to be doing a job like this, to be fixing your toilet, installing your lights or fitting you a new front door.

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Women in Construction Feature WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION: MORE WOMEN AND APPRENTICESHIP GRANT CAN FILL SKILLS GAP SAYS RECRUITMENT EXPERT Recruitment expert Matt Wainwright is calling for employers to use the apprenticeship grants announced as part of the COVID support packages to attract more women in to careers in the built environment. Wainwright is head of construction for global recruitment group Nicholas Associates, which offers a range of HR and talent management solutions for a wide range of industries which also includes the Apprentice Employment Agency brand. Under the new plans announced in the Budget last week, the government will pay a £3,000 grant to an employer who hires a new apprentice between 1 April and 31 September 2021. This apprenticeship bonus is an increase on the previous scheme’s payment of £1,500 per new hire or £2,000 for those aged 24 and under. Unlike the previous scheme, this grant is applicable for apprentices of all ages. The construction

WOMEN EXPLAIN HOW THEY HAVE EXCELLED IN WELSH CONSTRUCTION Inspiring women into construction is the goal of a new video that has been created by CITB and partners. Released for International Women’s Day and Women in Construction Week, the short film showcases women who have pursued a rewarding career in the sector, explaining how they came to work in the industry as they answer a series of questions from young people across Wales. Explaining the range of opportunities available, a typical day’s work and what they enjoy most about the role are all covered by the women in the video. They also discuss the barriers they faced, how the industry is becoming more inclusive, the misconceptions that are being

sector employs over 2 million people and contributes £90 billion to the UK economy so women have a big part to play and are key to addressing the skill shortage. The focus of Women in Construction (WIC) Week is to highlight women as a viable component of the construction industry and to raise awareness of the opportunities available for women in the construction industry by emphasizing the growing role of women in the industry. Matt’s appeal stems from an email he sent to female candidates the Nicholas Associates Construction division had placed in roles asking them to share their success stories as part of women in construction week. Initially disappointed by the poor response (just three) he says these were enlightening as all spoke of having ‘fell’ into their career in construction but that they now thoroughly enjoyed their work and would not change careers. Commenting he said, “The UK has some ambitious targets for the built environment that include hundreds of thousands of new houses, commercial developments, regeneration projects around the new Freeports as well as huge sustainability targets and labour shortages are holding back progress. What better way to boost capacity than to use the apprenticeship grants to attract young people, particularly women into the industry. Women only represent 13% of the built environment workforce so as an industry we still have a long way to go to ensure these careers appeal to both sexes. This is also the age group who have challenged, and how the sector has a crucial role to play in supporting Britain’s post-Covid economic recovery. Victoria Walsh, CITB Customer Engagement Manager for Wales, said: “Construction is an industry with a reputation for being male-dominated, but there are increasing opportunities for everyone in the sector with such a wide range of jobs available. Here at CITB we’re supporting businesses and workers to realise the variety of opportunities available. This will enable students or those looking for a change of job to enjoy a rewarding career in construction, while employers can benefit from the plethora of advantages that come from having a diverse workforce.” Involved in the film are Wilmott Dixon’s regional head of sustainability Jo Charles, John Weaver’s contracts manager Jennifer Parker, Carter Lauren’s assistant quantity surveyor Hannah Brown, and Anwyl’s trainee assistant site manager Chloe Annis. Andrea Jones, Operational/Development Manager for Careers Wales, said: “There is extensive research that demonstrates the impact that engagement with employers can

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been most affected by a lockdown education and who are most passionate about caring for the environment. ” According to research by NAG, the shortage of women working in construction stems from the fact that just one in five applicants is female across the majority of skillsets and trades. These includes design, quantity surveying, project management, estimating, site management, bricklaying, joinery, plastering and decorating. Matt added, “There are so many roles in construction that much more needs to be done to increase the candidate pool by attracting more women. There are clear educational and vocational pathways that need to be promoted in schools, colleges, universities and the community. These are then supported by ongoing workplace education, training, mentoring and continued professional development to encourage women into leadership roles. Any barriers to equality or perceived ‘boys club mentalities’ should be openly discussed and addressed to foster a culture where gender is irrelevant, and experience, competency and reliability determine the best candidate.” The Nicholas Associates Group includes 8 separate recruitment brands including Ashley Kate HR and Stafforce. Group brands operate from a UK wide network with offices in Carlisle, Nottingham, Lincoln, Grimsby, Sheffield, Rotherham, Bradford, Hull, Liverpool, Immingham Humber, Wolverhampton, Woolwich. have on young peoples’ ability to make sound career decisions. Careers Wales is pleased to have been able to work with CITB to produce this video for schools so that despite the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, we are still able to inform and inspire females who might be considering careers in the construction industry.” Chloe Annis, apprentice assistant site manager for Anwyl Homes, who appeared on the video, added: “I really hope that the young women take on board the comments made in the interview when deciding on their future careers and that maybe even one comment may inspire them. Don’t be afraid or shy away from your decisions as you won’t know until you try. When I was deciding my future I never had videos of people within the actual industry talking about their experiences so I hope that the video was useful and answered any questions. I hope to be seeing some more females in the industry in the future.” With the increasing number of jobs in the construction sector to help meet Britain’s ambitious growth target, there will be more and more opportunities for women to begin their career in the industry.

MODULAR THERMAL BREAK IS THE ‘GO TO’ SOLUTION FOR STEEL-TO-STEEL DETAILING Steel has a very high conductivity when compared with other construction materials. In structures where steel elements are connected to other steel components, or where they penetrate the insulated envelope, careful design consideration is required if thermal bridging is to be avoided. The acknowledged method of reducing therrmal transmittance in these situations is by incorporating a structural thermal break. A product offering multiple benefits is the versatile Schöck Isokorb T type S. A load-bearing thermal insulation element for connecting cantilevered steel girders to steel structures in new construction or renovation projects. Penetrating support structures, such as balconies, canopy roofs, or frame system crossbars, can be reliably separated and thermal bridges minimised. It is the only thermal break product for steel construction that satisfies the load-bearing and thermal insulation requirements of steel design. And being a modular unit, it can be adapted to all profile sizes and load bearing capacity requirements. The T type S has been incorporated into a number of highprofile projects throughout the UK and three of them are highlighted here... Oxford Brookes University The redevelopment of the Sir Kenneth Wheare Hall at Oxford Brookes, creates an elegant, multi-use space for teaching, graduations and other key university events. Support for the external cladding was provided by cantilever connections to the universal columns; and it was critical to provide a structural thermal break at strategic connectivity points. By thermally separating the exterior steel structure from the interior steel structure, the modular thermal insulation elements with their stainless steel components, reliably mitigate the risk of condensation, mould formation and corrosion. Oxford Brookes University

Ridgeway Views

Greenwich Design District The T type S product

Greenwich Design District Greenwich Design District provides 14,000sqm of affordable creative studios and workshops. The sixteen buildings throughout the site incorporate a variety of Schöck solutions, but it is Building C1 that utlises the T type S Isokorb. This three-level workshop and studio has a basketball court on the roof. The external staircase and concrete cantilevered walkway; and also where the walkway encloses the staircase, involve particularly large cantilevers. Here the walkway slabs, supported by a main beam, enclose cast-in steel beams and three cross-beams, which are bolted back to the structural slabs using the modular Isokorb units. Ridgeway Views The former site of the National Institute for Medical Research on The Ridgeway at Mill Hill, in North London, is being redeveloped as a major new residential development. When complete there will be around 460 residential units, with apartments across nineteen buildings of three to nine-storeys and twelve three-storey houses. Also new offices, leisure facilities and a café. There are a variety of thermal breaks used throughout the scheme but there was a special requirement involving a steel balcony needing to be bolted down to a precast plank. To achieve this an L-shaped bracket was first fixed to the slab, then a stub bracket and balcony attached to the bracket using the modular Isokorb. For full information on the Isokorb T type S contact Schöck on 01865 290 890 or visit the product section of the website at www.schoeck.com

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Company News MC CONSTRUCTION HAS WON A PLACE ON A NEW THREEYEAR FRAMEWORK FOR IMPROVEMENT WORKS AT THE DARESBURY LABORATORY IN CHESHIRE Salford-based MC Construction has been appointed by the Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC). Part of the Science & Technology Facilities Council, STFC’s Daresbury Laboratory has more than 300 staff and is located at SciTech Daresbury, which spans nearly 200,000 sq metres.

MC Construction achieved the highest overall score in the tendering process for refurbishment, replacement and maintenance projects worth up to £500,000 in value. Its first-place ranking means it will be awarded all works up to £15,000 in value under the terms of the framework. The estimated total spend under the agreement will be up to £2m a year. Projects will range from minor construction works to extensions and lab and office fit-outs. Russ Forshaw, group operations director at MC Construction, said: “STFC’s Daresbury Laboratory is internationally recognised for its world-leading scientific research. “We are thrilled by our appointment to improve and maintain this inspiring campus via the new framework, and coming first in the tender process highlights that our experience, processes and personnel are of the highest standard to deliver a wide range of projects. The framework will enable us to showcase the flexibility we offer via our core construction business and facilities services division. In addition, our specialist local supply chain, who will be helping to deliver small and large projects, will have an important role to play in

TRANSFORMING DIGITALLY TOGETHER – ASITE LAUNCH NEW REFERRAL PROGRAM

The new program allows Asite clients to recommend the cloud-based platform and help more organizations with their digital transformation Asite is delighted to announce the launch of its new Referral Program. The new program will allow Asite clients to refer the Asite Platform to their business contacts, helping other organizations on their digital transformation journey. Clients

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the delivery of future schemes. We look forward to starting projects in the near future and to building a strong relationship with the client.” MC Construction undertakes building projects throughout the north west with a focus on the commercial, education, heritage, hospitality, industrial, local authority, social housing and healthcare sectors. Its other framework partnerships include Manchester Airport, Royal Mail Group, Transport for Greater Manchester, the University of Manchester, Salford City Council, Cheshire East Council, STAR Procurement, the Crown Commercial Service, North West Construction Hub and the Rise Construction Framework. The family-owned business is based on Oldfield Road, Salford, and employs 60 people. It is celebrating its golden jubilee in 2021. Phill Smith, mechanical project manager at STFC’s Daresbury Laboratory, said: “With plans to update and refurbish lab and office space across Daresbury Laboratory, we have a very busy schedule planned for the next few years. I’m looking forward to working closely with MC Construction at this exciting time.”

will play a vital role in helping a variety of organizations implement digital solutions and, ultimately, improve their processes. Asite will pay a ‘Referral Fee’ to clients if a recommendation or referral results in a new Asite user. Asite has a strong reputation for providing collaborative digital solutions for some of the most challenging and complex capital projects worldwide.

Company News Alongside Cambridge Street Collective, Henry Boot Construction will also work on the brand new Elshaw House – a visually striking dark metal building that will incorporate approximately 70,000 sq ft of Grade A office space over seven floors. This exemplar office will be net zero carbon ready and contribute to the Council’s long-term ambitions to create a more sustainable and greener city centre. Councillor Mazher Iqbal, Cabinet Member for Business and Investment at Sheffield City Council, said: “We are excited to see construction work on these key city centre projects gearing up. This is understandably an unsettling time for many of us, so it is particularly rewarding to see cultural and sustainable projects coming to fruition that will improve both our mental and physical wellbeing and help drive the local economy in the future.”

HENRY BOOT CONSTRUCTION APPOINTED ON SHEFFIELD’S LANDMARK HEART OF THE CITY SCHEME Sheffield based construction firm Henry Boot Construction Limited has been selected for two developments within Heart of the City, the cultural and social destination known as Cambridge Street Collective and Elshaw House – a brand-new low carbon office building.

with an adjoining new structure behind them, will deliver a 20,000 sq ft industrialstyled food hall and a 15,000 sq ft live entertainment venue.

This is a strategically important urban development project for Henry Boot Construction that will create a significant sustainable landmark in the cultural heart of the city. As part of our continued commitment to Sheffield and as a major local employer, we will deliver life changing social value outputs through our local supply chain and site-specific employment and training initiatives.

Being delivered by Sheffield City Council and their Strategic Development Partner, Queensberry, Cambridge Street Collective, which also incorporates Bethel Chapel, is viewed as the ‘cultural heart’ of the wider masterplan. The historic buildings fronting Cambridge Street, notably Henry’s Corner and Bethel Sunday School, are to be retained, and along

The Asite Platform creates one open ecosystem. It connects teams and enables them to build resilient businesses and supply chains and helps thousands of organizations in traditional industries

Throughout the construction process, Henry Boot will be striving to support the local economy through job creation, running a significant apprenticeship scheme and working with a range of local partners to create long term social value for the city. Tony Shaw, Director for Henry Boot Construction, said:

Located on the city centre site between Wellington Street, Carver Street and Cambridge Street, a planning application for the two developments was approved towards the end of 2020. Henry Boot Construction is getting work underway this week, with a completion target towards the end of 2022.

Through this work, Asite has been at the forefront of digital transformation globally and has developed to become a leader in the industry, helping connect the physical, digital, and human.

Andrew Davison, Project Director at Queensberry, commented: “We are looking forward to seeing Elshaw House and Cambridge Street Collective come together. The scheme epitomizes our ambition to create sustainable places with character and personality that will help to transform Sheffield city centre.”

automate their collaborative business processes and focus their attention on delivering innovative projects. The Asite Referral Program will allow Asite to bring its expertise to more organizations globally and work towards its commitment to ensuring the challenge of integrating digital technologies is one we meet together, equipping organizations with the capabilities to streamline how they work

and transform industries, ensuring no one gets left behind. Asite clients will be able to refer business contacts directly to Asite via email or by filling out a form on the Asite website. Clients will receive a ‘Referral Fee’ upon their referred contact taking out a new 12-month contract for an Asite product or products. The Asite Referral Program is open to both individuals and companies.

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Feature

SMARTER BUILDING CONTROLS WILL HELP SCHOOLS TO GO GREEN AND REDUCE COSTS J2 Innovations: schools need to take advantage of new innovative technologies to drive down energy costs and reduce carbon emissions. School improvement projects were given a major boost last year when a £560 million fast-track investment fund was given the green light by the UK Government. The funding, allocated for 580 building projects at academies, sixth form colleges and voluntary aided schools in England, will transform facilities and improve school buildings. “A vital and welcome boost for the education sector and schools building programme, the cash-injection must also act as a catalyst for investments in innovative energy-saving technologies to help drive down costs and reduce carbon emissions,” says Chris Irwin, Vice President Sales EMEA & VP Global Marketing J2 Innovations. “There will be projects to upgrade boilers to new green, energy-efficient models as well as the complete refurbishments of classroom blocks but what we could also see is the introduction of better controls for buildings. The implementation of ‘smart’ controls would allow schools to track and manage the energy performance of their building environments and improve the overall energy profiles of their sites.”

feature-rich management system to control buildings across multiple sites. The entry-level FIN-based system is a powerful simple-to-use plug and play solution for efficient building management that has removed much of the complexity found in many of today’s Building Management Systems (BMS). Maintenance staff can monitor, control and visualize all the operational and energy assets such as HVAC, lighting and security systems inside a building or buildings across numerous sites to optimize the comfort levels, safety and energy efficiency. A dashboard flags the status or health of assets as well as the maintenance requirements of all the connected devices while trend monitoring and utility metering are reported by the system. Plug & play simplifies the installation of any preconfigured hardware solutions. FIN Framework interfaces with BACnet, Modbus, KNX, OPC-UA and MQTT for linking to almost any system. “This is by no means a pared-down BMS but a compact fully-featured management system that retains much of the functionality found in costlier systems; making it ideal for education settings,” explains Irwin. “Data about energy usage can also be more easily shared via a common data standard, enabling leadership teams to plan more effectively.”

Natively built for tags and support for the Project Haystack 4 open standard, FIN provides an intuitive user-experience with intelligent data-management, analytics and simplified workflows. J2 Innovations’ latest Edge2Cloud capability provides operators with a secure remote connection to the microBMS for accessing building data, servicing and upgrading of the system. “Budget constraints have often meant school maintenance teams are smaller in size and reliant on the help of outside-contractors to come onsite to address issues or breakdowns,” continues Irwin. “While this arrangement has sufficed, the remote management of heating and other controls will dramatically reduce costs and save time. FIN microBMS with Edge2Cloud technology allows engineers or subcontractors to simply log into an Amazon Web Services session to gain access to building systems where they can diagnose faults from anywhere and on any device. Education set-ups, particularly schools are always under constant pressure deliver to greater efficiencies with limited resources. In the future, we think all schools will need to be connected by intelligent controls to manage lighting, heating and cooling. The use of smart building controls will help us create modern, fit-for-purpose spaces that are more sustainable and meet the needs of tomorrow.”

To address this underserved segment of the building automation market, J2 Innovations, creators of FIN Framework (FIN) - a state-of-the-art application suite for smart buildings, smart equipment and IoT applications, has developed FIN microBMS application suite - a compact

There will be projects to upgrade boilers to new green, energy-efficient models as well as the complete refurbishments of classroom blocks but what we could also see is the introduction of better controls for buildings. The implementation of ‘smart’ controls would allow schools to track and manage the energy performance of their building environments and improve the overall energy profiles of their sites.

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PVC MES

ECOGREEN PLANT HIRE – WATERLESS WHEEL WASH We live in a green and pleasant land – but only because it rains so much and that rain also has the unfortunate effect of turning our construction sites into brown and very unpleasant swamps. But work has to go on – and you’re required by law to take all possible steps to prevent that mud from leaving the site and making a mess of the roads. Mud is a tricky problem to deal with. Road sweepers are a normal reaction – but they can be expensive, are environmentally unfriendly as they create diesel emissions, can cause traffic chaos and sometimes just end up smearing the mess around.

Ecogreen Plant Hire Ltd have the answer with the DriveOn V-Tech waterless wheel cleaner. It’s a dry, raised ramp system but has around 60% less surface area than a rumble strip, so it creates more vibration, more tyre flex and more mud is removed, which falls into the void below. It can’t freeze up or break down, doesn’t incur water or fuel bills, doesn’t need supervision, creates no emissions, reduces road sweeper requirements and so saves you money.

Of course, it will also show your customers that you are an environmentally responsible company. We’d be delighted to survey your project and discuss our system’s suitability and implementation. www.ecogreenplanthire.co.uk info@ecogreenplanthire.co.uk 0800 130 3437

Wheel washes can just make more mud and make the situation worse. They can waste water, contaminate water courses, freeze up and break down in winter. They can also cause extra cost for extra hires such as bowsers, lances, pumps, generators (and fuel of course), and bunds. Considering a dry system? “Rumble strips” have been around for a while, but typically present such a surface area that much of the mud that they displace sits on the bars and re-contaminates following wheels – until they have buried themselves.

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Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 39 xx Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

Project News HUB SOUTH WEST PARTNER, LDC, COMPLETES AIRDRIE SCHOOL EXPANSION PROJECT TO INCREASE PUPIL CAPACITY hub South West’s Tier 1b construction partner, Linear Design Construction, (LDC) has successfully completed the extension of the All Saints & Rochsolloch Primary Schools in Airdrie. The Design & Build project with hub South West, on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council, involved the addition of an extension to the primary school campus. The extension has provided two extra classrooms to All Saints, whilst an internal courtyard space was reconfigured at adjoining Rochsolloch to create a further room.

the project was handed over on time with zero defects in December 2020. Ryan Broadley, Managing Director of LDC said, “We are delighted to see another vital education project completed to such a high standard. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with the teams at hub South West and North Lanarkshire Council to bring this project to fruition and look forward to working together again in future.”

Michael McBrearty, Chief Executive of hub South West said: “It is fantastic to see the extension of All Saints & Rochsolloch Primary School now complete. Students and staff can now benefit from an updated and more functional space that will enhance their learning environment. We have collaborated frequently with North Lanarkshire Council on educational projects and early years’ developments and are delighted to have worked alongside LDC to deliver this interesting project on NLC’s behalf.”

The new space will increase Rochsolloch’s permanent capacity to 313 pupils from its current 255, while All Saints’ pupil roll capacity will increase by 66 places to a potential 305. Appointed to the project in July 2020, LDC managed the project from inception to design conclusion with its design team, JM Architects and Blyth & Blyth (Structural & M&E). Working collaboratively, the team’s commitment and professionalism ensured

STEELWORKS COMMENCED ON THREE NEW UNITS AT ST. MODWEN PARK BASINGSTOKE St. Modwen Logistics is continuing to bolster its portfolio of urban logistics space with the commencement of steelworks on three units, totalling more than 185,000 sq ft, at its brand-new development in Basingstoke. St. Modwen Park Basingstoke is a 11.3acre site and will be developed in several phases with the first phase set to complete in Q3 of this year. Three units of 36,987, 51,572 and 97,781 sq ft will be delivered, providing sought-after urban logistics and

industrial space for the area. The scheme is scheduled for completion in late July 2021. Strategically located between Junction 6 and 7 of the M3 and within 2 miles of Basingstoke town centre, St. Modwen Park Basingstoke is well placed to capitalise on the town’s existing diverse economy, providing fast access to London and Southampton. St. Modwen Logistics’ plans could create a further 250 new jobs for the region, with the scheme designed to help meet the

growing demand for high-quality logistics space in the area. Alongside job generation, the company is also investing funds into the town to further boost prospects in the region. David McGougan, Senior Development Manager at St. Modwen Logistics, commented: “St. Modwen Park Basingstoke is a prime example of our purpose of Changing Places. Creating Better Futures. “The site will deliver much-needed urban warehouse space for the region at an industry-leading standard and we look forward to welcoming new occupiers to the scheme this year.” Marketing agents for the site are London Clancy, Hollis Hockley and Savills. Bonnie Minshull, Director at Savills UK, added: “We’re confident the new scheme will attract many high-quality businesses to the area. The position and quality of the units currently being developed at St. Modwen Park Basingstoke make it the ideal hub for businesses looking for an urban warehouse in an easy-to-access location.” Andrew Newman, Consultant at Hollis Hockley, added: “The demand for urban warehouse space in this region continues to grow, so it is great to see St. Modwen Logistics working to meet that demand with a range of new, innovative, design-led commercial units.”

40 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

Project News

GMI COMMENCES WORK ON NEW MANCHESTER CITY CENTRE STUDENT STUDIO ACCOMMODATION SCHEME The development situated less than 200 yards away from the Manchester Metropolitan University campus, will consist of the construction of 62 studio apartments. GMI Construction has commenced works on a new nine-storey Student Accommodation development, for client Alumno Group, at a site near the Manchester Metropolitan University campus in Manchester City Centre. The project valued at £5.5 Million will consist of the construction of 62 self-contained studio apartments that will feature their own kitchenette and bathroom. Each floor will typically feature eight studio apartments together with a communal area for residents. On the ground floor of the development which has been designed by Ben Kelly, the iconic designer of the world-famous Hacienda Nightclub in Manchester facilities will include a reception/concierge and ‘The Wash Bar’, together with a plant room and associated facilities needed to support the buildings operation. There will also be storage allocated for bikes. Construction commenced on site at the beginning of March with the first resident expected to move in by the summer of 2022. Speaking about the project David Campbell, Managing Director of Alumno Group said: “We are absolutely delighted to be on site with the team at GMI. The site is within the Manchester Metropolitan University campus boundary and just a five-minute walk from the University of Manchester. It will be an excellent bespoke and modern student community hub.

We have high hopes that this will set a new benchmark in this location and enhance the choice available to students, who continue to make Manchester a major destination for both study and the excellent student experience. Also commenting about the project GMI Divisional Managing Director Marc Banks said: “This project will regenerate a once uninhabited space into a vibrant and contemporary residential hub for students to thrive in and enhance their University Experience and so we are delighted to be working with our valued client Alumno Group and Consultants on this impressive new residential development. “With the interior of the development featuring designs by iconic Manchester designer Ben Kelly, the development is set to become a dynamic and creative environment for students to enhance their University Experience.

CASTLEWOOD BUSINESS PARK RECEIVES THE GREEN LIGHT FOR FURTHER DEVELOPMENT Clowes Developments have been granted planning consent to speculatively build out plot 5, Castlewood Gateway, at Castlewood Business Park. Ashfield District Council have given the green light for a 17,308sq ft single story industrial warehouse unit with two storey offices. The speculatively built unit will be located at the entrance of the business park which has already seen 1,500,000sq ft of industrial space built and occupied. Castlewood sits at the heart of a major centre for manufacturing and logistics located off junction 28 of the M1. It is within half an hour’s drive of all the East Midlands cities and East Midlands Airport, the busiest cargo airport in the UK. Castlewood is served by a large available labour pool that is used to shift work. The business park is home to the 480,000sq ft Co-Op distribution centre and Parker Knoll’s 100,000sq ft manufacture and distribution facility. Also located at the entrance to the class leading development is a range of

convenient amenities including Costa Coffee, Spar, Shell and Greggs. Christian Smith Director in the Savills Industrial Team commented on the announcement, “Savills are pleased to be involved in the next phase of development on Castlewood Business Park on plot 5, a high-profile site sitting at the front of the Park. Following on from the success of Castlewood Court, we are sure there will be great demand for a new detached, high quality unit at the front of the Business Park, given the lack of stock around J28 M1, we expect strong interest from local occupiers looking for a high quality, modern warehouse/industrial unit on a managed business Park”. FHP Property Consultants, Tim Gilbertson and Chris Proctor added, “More space coming available at Castlewood is great news for the market at a time when we continue to see remarkable levels of demand across all sizes and spheres of the East Midlands commercial property market from both tenants and potential purchasers alike. It’s terrific that our clients here, Clowes Developments, are being so proactive and looking to speculatively develop space again at Castlewood Business Park, one of the East Midlands foremost manufacturing and distribution locations just off Junction 28 of the M1. “We’ve now done over 1.5 million sq ft of deals here and I have no doubt with the latest speculative build planned that we will quickly receive good interest and hopefully agree a deal with a new buyer or tenant during the construction period.”

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 41

Editor’s Recommended Products NEW MAPLE FLOW PRODUCT FROM MAPLESOFT

UPONOR ADVANCES PRE-INSULATED PIPES WITH ECOFLEX VIP THERMO LAUNCH

Free-form tool offers virtual whiteboardstyle environment with live calculations Maplesoft™ a new mathematics tool that allows engineers to more easily brainstorm, develop, and document their mathematics and analyses. Maple Flow provides a virtual, whiteboard-style environment that automatically keeps calculations live as users refine, reposition, and develop their calculations. Maple Flow allows design engineers to easily sketch out and formalize technical ideas, revising and reordering content with simple drag-and-drop behavior. Users can add math, text, and images to a live, interactive document, and Maple Flow keeps all of the mathematics automatically updated. The Maple Flow environment handles the design calculations that lie at the heart of virtually all engineering projects. For more information, visit www.maplesoft.com/products/MapleFlow

ROOFSPACE SOLUTIONS LAUNCHES GARDEN BUILDINGS RANGE Roofspace Solutions, has launched a range of high specification garden studios to meet the growing demand for affordable extra home spaces. Manufactured from sustainable timber with insulation and floor-to-ceiling windows, the garden buildings have a low carbon footprint and thermal envelope for use 365 days a year. There will be no worries about planning approvals, as the height of the singlestory outbuilding is less than 3 meters, meaning they are not considered to be a permitted development, so planning permission is not required.

A high-performance pipe designed to make heating systems more sustainable than ever before has been launched by Uponor, total solutions provider of systems for the safe transportation of water around a building. Ecoflex VIP Thermo represents the next generation of pre-insulated pipes thanks to its ability to significantly minimise heat and energy losses. The product’s efficiency stems from its unique hybrid design which combines technology from bonded and unbonded insulated pipes to create a solution that delivers up to 48% lower heat loss compared to unbonded pipes, and 34% compared to bonded pipes. A further benefit of utilising Ecoflex VIP Thermo within heat distribution networks is that the outer diameter of the pipe is up to 30% smaller than other alternatives available on the market. Website: www.uponor.co.uk/ecoflex-vip

The timber framed building features three walls, a flat roof, exterior cladding and bi-fold doors, creating a bright, additional space for the home. www.roofspacesolutions.co.uk

COMPOSITE PRIME LAUNCHES NEW ONTREND COLOURWAY TO ITS DUAL RANGE Composite Prime, has launched a new duo of colours, slate and natural oak, to its HD Deck® Dual range.

WALKI® WALL TIGHT FR B 215 TAPE Walki has developed a tape that in combination with the Walki’s Wall Tight FR G A2 membrane renders a reaction to fire according to Euroclass A2. The adhesive tapes on the market typically have a reaction according to Euroclass E or F. This means that they burn easily.

The innovative range offers a reversible twocolour option that allows the deck to be laid with contrasting colours to create a bespoke finish or pattern. Composite Prime’s products are eco-friendly and socially responsible; made using recycled plastic and FSC® certified oak wood flour. The HD Deck® Dual features a capped layer to increase protection against fading, staining and other potentially damaging elements, the boards are low maintenance, slip resistant, durable, and barefoot safe so make the ideal option for high traffic, family outdoor living. Website: www.composite-prime.com

By making the system membrane and adhesive tape non-combustible, crucial seconds can be saved in case of a fire event. Walki developed a tape that in combination with the Walki’s Wall Tight FR G A2 membrane gives a reaction to fire according to Euroclass A2. Website: walki.com

42 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

CEMEX INTRODUCES NEW READYPAVE® CAMDEN ReadyPave® Camden is a modern twist on traditional rumbled pavers, which uses a new manufacturing process that ensures a more sustainable and environmentally friendly product. ReadyPave® Camden retains the classic appearance of a traditional stone sett without a secondary manufacturing process. This not only creates a more sustainable product, but also reduces manual handling. ReadyPave® Camden is available in a three-size multipack, which can be combined to form various patterns with consistent row widths, to suit any design. It is available in four colours, with bespoke options available on request. This product is ideal for the domestic market, particularly for use on driveways and housing estates. https://www.cemex.co.uk/readypavecamden-concrete-block-paving

Project News

PARTNERSHIP’S KEY TO SUCCESS A North East regeneration specialist, established 20 years ago to transform communities and economies in the Durham coalfields, has handed over the keys for its 2,000th property. Kate Shotton took ownership of the home at The Fell, Chester-le-Street, where Durham Villages Regeneration Company (DVRC) is delivering 78, two, three and four bedroomed homes. She said: “It was quite a surprise to find out I am moving into the 2,000th home. I chose the site because of its location, affordability and the quality of the homes.” For over 20 years, DVRC and its predecessor – Durham Housing Partnership – has been investing in former coalfields villages to create new homes, stimulate economic activity and encourage communities to flourish. The Fell is the 32nd development by the partnership, comprising Durham County Council and Keepmoat Homes. Other villages to benefit include Bearpark, Bowburn, Brandon, Cassop, Croxdale, Dipton, Esh Winning, High Pittington, Meadowfield, New Brancepath, Shadforth, Sherburn, Sherburn Hill, Ushaw Moor, and West Rainton. There have also been developments at Byland Lodge and Newton Hall in Durham City, Newton Aycliffe, Peterlee, Seaham and Spennymoor. Across these sites a total of 2,059 homes will be built, of which just over a quarter – 516 – are for affordable rent. With an average price of around £110,000, DVRC has consistently delivered homes for sale that are within the reach of local, young people. Over 80% of properties sold have been bought by those living within 10 miles of the development and around 60% were first time buyers. This £240 million investment includes around £150 million spent with local businesses and throughout the work, close relationships with Durham and

The DVRC initiative was formed to help revitalise former coal mining villages and communities across Durham. This has been achieved through major investment creating jobs and training opportunities for local people.

We want young people to be able to buy homes in the communities where they grew up or close to where they work, and to help first time buyers take that exciting first step onto the property ladder. Over the last twenty years, DVRC has helped 2,000 families and individuals to do just that, while also giving back to the community through apprenticeship and training programmes and investing in amenities, leisure facilities and enriching activities. Derwentside Colleges have ensured that, over the past 20 years, there have been between two and six apprentices employed on the sites at any one time. In addition, over £25 million has been invested in Freeman’s Quay swimming pool and leisure centre in Durham City, a new bowling green and community centre at Newton Hall, an 18,000sq ft community building at Ushaw Moor, access improvements to a school in Peterlee and a string of community initiatives such as arts projects, shop renovations, resurfacing of unadopted roads and a £100,000 Community Chest. To commemorate the 2,000th resident, DVRC will present the Shotton family an annual pass to Beamish museum – which stands as a strong reminder of Durham’s coalfield history and heritage. DVRC has won a Best Practice in Regeneration Award presented by the British Urban Regeneration Association (BURA), while Keepmoat won the Heart of the Community award at the North East Business Awards and the Larger Organisations Making a Difference in the Community Award at the North East Equality and Diversity Awards, for the work it does with the partnership. Ian Prescott, Land and Partnerships Director at Keepmoat Homes said: “The DVRC initiative was formed to help revitalise former coal mining villages and communities across Durham. This has been achieved through major investment creating jobs and

44 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

training opportunities for local people. The homes for sale have been targeted at first time buyers, helping to keep young people in the former coal mining settlements and preventing the loss of economically active people from the areas that were at risk of decline. The affordable homes created have helped those in housing need. Now, with 2,000 dwellings and after a £240 million investment, it is clear that the partnership between the council and Keepmoat has had a major impact in this respect across the county.” Cllr Carl Marshall, Durham County Council’s Cabinet Member for economic regeneration and chairman of DVRC, said: “Ensuring people have access to high quality affordable housing is a key priority for the council and it’s fantastic to see DVRC making such a positive contribution towards this aim. “We want young people to be able to buy homes in the communities where they grew up or close to where they work, and to help first time buyers take that exciting first step onto the property ladder. Over the last twenty years, DVRC has helped 2,000 families and individuals to do just that, while also giving back to the community through apprenticeship and training programmes and investing in amenities, leisure facilities and enriching activities. It has also supported the local construction industry and supply chain, boosting the economy and creating and safeguarding jobs. I would like to congratulate Kate and her family on the purchase on their new home and with them the best of luck for the future.”

Project News

80,000 SQ FT MILL REDEVELOPMENT COMPLETED IN YORKSHIRE INNOVATION HUB A major redevelopment, inspired, conceived and developed by The Hartley Group, has been completed. This is part of the strategy to regenerate Hartleys historic industrial investment in Yorkshire into the innovation sector and to form a major part of the Northern Powerhouse initiative. As part of the strategy, Hartley has transformed one of Kirklees’ most valued landmark buildings at the centre of its growing hub for innovation, with up to 80,000 sq ft of space available from May 2021.

Globe Innovation Centre Ltd, a partnership between Hartley Property Trust Ltd, 3M, The University of Huddersfield and Kirklees Council, has invested more than £5 million to transform The Globe in Slaithwaite, a stunning village within the hotbed of enterprise emerging in Kirklees. The Globe has renovated all five floors in the first of two significant buildings that were originally built in 1887 for textiles production. The site now provides a state of the art innovation centre, laboratory space, medical suites, offices and retail space complete with a unique Artisan Hall. The sympathetic renovation is impressive, retaining the industrial heritage but providing high specification, contemporary styled business space with superfast connectivity and IT faciliites. Features include the historic exposed timber floors and brickwork in open plan rooms flooded with light, exposed beam ceilings and 168 on site car parking spaces. Last year Hartley Property Trust agreed a 15 year lease with Colne Valley Group Practice and a pharmacy to occupy 6,000 sq ft of ground floor space in the building. Triton Construction is currently fitting out the medical facility, on behalf of Globe Developments Ltd, to provide consultation rooms, a minor operations room, nurse treatment rooms, administration space and a large multi use training room as well as the adjacent pharmacy. When it opens in May, it is believed that the medical centre will support over 10,000 patients .

Huddersfield, 3M Buckley Innovation Centre and Kirklees Council. Turnkey packages are being offered for research and development of medical, pharmaceutical and associated technologies. The Artisan Hall provides ‘shell specification ready’ opportunities for specialist food, drink and other local producers from 1,000 sq ft up to 7,500 sq ft. for larger restaurant and bar operators. Units are also available from 3,000 sq ft to 7,500 sq ft. at ground floor level for retail/convenience units with car park and canal frontages. The Globe commands an impressive canal-side position in the centre of Slaithwaite which is one of the most picturesque villages in the Colne Valley. It is located on the main A62 trunk road linking Huddersfield with Manchester with direct rail access to Huddersfield town centre, Leeds, Manchester and beyond. The redevelopment also includes a new pedestrian bridge over the canal basin, linking to Carr Street which is the main retail area and high street of Slaithwaite. Chris Smith, spokesman for Hartley, said, “We are delighted to bring to market this exciting new development which has already attracted significant interest with terms out to three major occupiers.

Kirklees is home to 14,000+ businesses with core sectors including advanced manufacturing and precision engineering, textiles, pharmaceuticals and medical technologies, and creative and digital industries. Sue Cooke, Chief Executive at 3M Buckley Innovation Centre said, “The Globe Innovation Centre is a stunning facility with the best of heritage and contemporary facilities, perfectly located between Leeds and Manchester on the Transpennine corridor. “The 3M Buckley Innovation Centre is supporting this opportunity for grow-on space for a number of our tenants, some of whom will be the first to occupy the prestigious top floor workspaces. Our relationships with the University of Huddersfield, the Council, the LEP and The Globe will create a strong eco-system of innovation and business support for such growing firms, helping to create high tech jobs.” Roger Marsh OBE DL, Chair of the LEP and the NP11 group of Northern local enterprise partnerships, said, “This new development in Kirklees provides a significant opportunity to support businesses in our region. Leeds City Region is a place where innovators are supported and have access to the very best talent, universities and businesses to collaborate with. The Globe Innovation Centre will be a space for true collaboration and will boost the already thriving innovation ecosystem in the Leeds City Region.”

“Kirklees is home to 14,000+ businesses with core sectors including advanced manufacturing and precision engineering, textiles, pharmaceuticals and medical technologies, and creative and digital industries. It was recently named the second best place in the UK to set up and run a business and we believe that The Globe is offering the right space at the right time.”

The remaining medical space on the first floor is being targeted at ancillary health services such as dentist, optician, physiotherapist and holistic services with suites available from 500 to 7,500 sq ft. Larger floor plates are offered for office occupation from 1,000 sq ft to 15,000 sq ft. The Innovation Centre offers incubator office and laboratory accommodation from 150 sq ft upwards with business support available from the University of

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 45

Feature

TOWN AND CITY CENTRES IN A POST-COVID WORLD Cities across the UK were experiencing an exciting urban revival before the pandemic hit. The face of the high street was changing, green spaces were cropping up, and the demand for city centre living was continuing to drive how people enjoyed and experienced their local communities. The pandemic stopped us all in our tracks as people have been staying at home for prolonged periods of time and reassessing their priorities when it comes to where they live, how they shop, and how they spend their money. James Cook, Head of Planning at Blacks Solicitors, shares his thoughts on how recent planning changes will impact our towns and cities as we begin to ease out of lockdown and move to a postCovid world. Covid has had a radical impact across almost every aspect of society, and it’s no different when it comes to town and city centre planning; it has accelerated many changes which were already being experienced. How has retail changed? The role of retail in our towns and city centres has changed dramatically in recent years. There are various reasons for this, from advances in technology and online shopping, to the lifecycle of certain retail formats.

We were already in a position pre-Covid where evolution was critical to maintain footfall and keep people engaged. The growth in city centre living combined with more varied working hours had also highlighted the need for easy access to flexible format convenience shopping and other services within our towns and city centres.

Post pandemic it will become even more crucial to offer a more diversified shopping experience alongside a wider mix of uses. From 1 September 2020 a new broad “Commercial, business and service” Use Class E was created, combining uses such as retail, restaurants, cafes, offices, gyms and health centres into one broad category. With certain exceptions, changes within this class will not require planning permission. The legislation has at its heart a more general desire from the Government to provide flexibility for businesses to adapt, diversify and respond quickly to the changing demands of communities. Supporting housing delivery in town and city centres, and on the high street Permitted development rights allowing the change of use of various premises have also evolved. In August 2020 a new permitted development right was introduced to allow the demolition of purpose-built detached blocks of flats, offices and light industrial premises, and replace them with purpose-built detached buildings for use as flats or a single dwelling house. Additional rights also provided for the construction of new dwellings on top of purpose-built detached blocks of flats; and certain other buildings. These rights are subject to certain conditions as well as a prior approval process. The Government has recently consulted upon further changes to support housing delivery including a new permitted development right to allow the change of use from a use or mix of uses within the new Class E to residential use, subject to conditions and prior approvals. The Government described this as going “significantly beyond existing rights, allowing for restaurants, indoor sports, and creches etc. to benefit from the change of use to residential under permitted development rights for the first time.” These changes are radical and controversial with questions being asked about the impact of the loss of commercial spaces and infrastructure investment the changes may generate a need for. Greener and healthier cities The pandemic highlighted the need for green infrastructure to be at the heart of the creation and regeneration of city centres moving forward, particularly to respond to the fact that many people living in urban centres have limited or even no private outdoor amenity space. This will not only enable us to adapt to climate change and reduce pollution, but make towns and cities more liveable. Looking ahead Covid has emphasised the changes that were already happening to our town and city centres. The Government has taken the opportunity to introduce further planning related flexibility for uses and changes of use which it hopes will kick start the post Covid economic recovery. It remains to be seen whether these changes strike the right balance between the flexibility and the correct amount of regulation needed to revive our town and city centres after lockdown.

For more information about planning matters, please visit: https://www.lawblacks.com

46 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

ENGEL HIGH-VIZ WORKWEAR HELPS SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT A brand-new range of high visibility protective safety clothing with 50% of the material made from recycled plastic bottles has been introduced by workwear manufacturer Engel Workwear.

The Danish firm has worked closely with Unifi, one of the world’s most advanced recycling centres which transforms the recycled bottles into a polyester yarn called ‘REPREVE©’

Called ‘Safety Light’, each item of clothing can be verified to consist of regenerated polyester fibres ultimately spun from a specific number of plastic bottles to make up 50% of its content. This is combined with 40% cotton and 10% standard polyester (245 g/m2) to produce a cool-to-wear, durable fabric. By using regenerated polyester which is equally as efficient as new, there are also significant consumption savings on energy, water and C02.

The smart, mix-and-match range includes boiler suits (containing 37 plastic bottles), work-jackets (20 bottles), trousers (19 bottles) with Cordura kneepad pockets and elasticated waistband, bib-overalls (23 bottles) and shorts (14 bottles). All have many practical pockets and comfort-design features. There is also a specific selection especially for women called ‘Ladies Light’, all with the same benefits. Commenting on the initiative, the CEO of Engel Workwear, John Engel said: “We are delighted to be able to make a positive contribution in helping to reduce the impact of the single-use global plastic waste crisis by putting many thousands of otherwise discarded bottles to further practical purpose. By doing so, we are able to not only do our bit to help improve the environment, but also be the first to use this versatile fabric to produce a unique range of lightweight, hardwearing and comfortable high-visibility clothing which will help keep our customers safe” The Engel ‘Safety Light’ collection is to be further extended during 2021. New garments will include Safety ‘Super-Stretch’ Jacket, trousers, Waterproofs, T shirts, Sweatshirts and a zipped Hoodie. Due to elastic fibres woven into the fabric, Engel 2-Way Super-Stretch garments are extremely flexible allowing greater comfort through freedom of movement whilst maintaining their original style and shape. For more details contact Gareth Bladen at gbl@f-engel.com Telephone +44(0) 7759 520034 or visit www.engel.eu/en & ENGEL Workwear - Catalogue (f-engel.com) Click here for more information. https://youtu.be/nc2se7xKKlE

Modular buildings for your construction site Fast availability in different sizes Effortless reconstruction when relocating Adaptable and expandable at any time www.containex.com

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Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 47 xx Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

Events & Awards News

RIA INNOVATION CONFERENCE ‘SHOOTS FOR THE STARS’ WITH NEW APOLLO ASTRONAUT HEADLINER The Railway Industry Association’s (RIA) Innovation Conference has today announced its new, exciting keynote speaker, Apollo astronaut Charlie Duke, who will share his insights into what rail can learn from space missions at an exclusive interview. During his time at NASA, Charlie was the flight controller on Apollo 11, part of the ground team in the Apollo 13 rescue and an astronaut on the Apollo 16 mission – he is also the tenth man to walk on the moon. Taking place from 28-30 April 2021, RIA’s award-winning virtual Innovation Conference will feature a wide range of keynote addresses, workshops, and extensive networking opportunities around the theme of the Railway of the Future. David Clarke, Technical Director at RIA, said: “We are very excited to reveal that Charlie Duke will be a keynote speaker at this year’s RIA Innovation Conference, in a ‘giant leap’ for our flagship innovation event. “Space exploration and rail actually have much in common, with large, complex, integrated systems required and a strong need for engineering excellence and collaboration. “We have invited Charlie to share his experience of the Apollo missions - perhaps the ultimate example of human innovation - and what the rail sector can learn from his career, as we examine what a railway of the future will look like. “The Innovation Conference is open to all, both from across the rail industry and beyond.

AMEY SCOOPS THREE PRESTIGIOUS HIGHWAYS ENGLAND AWARDS Amey and Amey Consulting are celebrating after picking up three prestigious Highways England 2019-2020 awards. The awards, that were announced virtually over three days last week, were split into Supply Chain and Highways England awards in categories that mirror Highways England three imperatives of Safety, Customer and Delivery.

“We look forward to what promises to be an exciting three days of events and networking on the pioneering innovation going on in the rail sector.” RIA’s Innovation Conference brings together innovators, clients and policymakers from across the sector and beyond, to showcase some of the leading technologies and projects, and help connect members of the rail industry involved in innovation.

There were over 370 entries into the awards, of which Amey picked up two supply chain awards and a Highways England award for the following innovative and collaborative projects in the categories; Safety – (Supply Chain) Excellence in Safety Learning The Impact Protection Vehicle (IPV) Strike and Traffic Management (TM) Incursions Group. This project has seen Amey teams work in collaboration with other sector professionals and the supply chain to create new innovations that will further reduce the safety risk operatives face whilst working on a live network. The judges commented on the project saying; “that this is an absolutely, essential piece of work that’s been well received by the supply chain.” Customer- (Supply Chain) Employee Engagement and Behavioural Change Area 10 Mobilisation

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Strategic Partners for the Conference include Network Rail and the UK Rail Research and Innovation Network (UKRRIN). The Conference’s confirmed sponsors are Platinum Sponsor Knorr-Bremse, Gold Sponsor Altran and Silver Sponsors Porterbrook and Harmonic – who are sponsoring the session with Charlie Duke. To find out more and register, click here.

The mobilisation of a new contract can have many challenges but the Amey team working on the mobilisation of the Area 10 contract, engaged with employees early on, alleviating concerns and introducing them to new processes and the Amey culture of delivering for the customer. On the award win, the judges decided that Amey had demonstrated a great example of working and engaging with employees to develop a really strong customer-focussed culture. Delivery – (Highways England) Excellence in Environment and Sustainability Area 13 Environment Team, Amey Consulting, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Ground Control and HWR Martin Traffic Management for ‘Get Cumbia Buzzing.’ Amey Consulting teams contributed to the creation of a pollinator scheme and improve the landscape for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, increasing their numbers on sections of roadside landscapes. The judges

Events & Awards News

LEADING SUSTAINABILITY SUMMER UNIVERSITY FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT LAUNCHED FOR 2021 Following the success of its 2020 online programme, Green.Building.Solutions. (GBS) - the renowned summer university on sustainable architecture and construction - will be offered again this year digitally to students around the world.

GBS is a UNESCO-awarded summer course, geared towards students of architecture and engineering sciences, primarily at graduate level. However, anyone with a background in a built environment-related field is welcome – both students as well as professionals.

Now in its 11th year, GBS deals with the ecological, economic, technical and social aspects of sustainable planning and construction, transferring Austria’s firsthand ecological knowledge and engineering expertise to an international audience.

Günther Jedliczka, CEO of OeAD student housing, said: “We were delighted with the response to GBS online and felt it was worthwhile running the programme again digitally in 2021. We were positively impressed and even surprised by how successful GBS was in 2020. Our motivated participants from all around the world proved without a doubt that working together across remote time zones, and from entirely different environments, is not only possible, but also leads to results of the highest quality.

Participants broaden their knowledge in the fields of passive house technology and energy efficiency and also get to work together with experts in practical workshops. The three-week programme – which is delivered entirely in English - takes place from July 17 to Aug 8, 2021. OeAD student housing, the organisers of GBS, is running the online version, after the successful 2020 digital format was wellreceived by students around the world.

highlighted their strong regional planning, delivery of greater benefits from corridorbased thinking, use of matched funding and wider community engagement. Peter Anderson, Managing Director for Transport Infrastructure at Amey, said: “To be recognised at the Highways England awards for our work across the three imperatives of Safety, Customer and Delivery is a fantastic achievement. “I’m immensely proud of all the teams that have collaborated with our sector counterparts to bring to life a new impact protection vehicle that will protect our people on the network, the Area 10 team who have been engaged and delivering for the customer prior to and post mobilisation of the contract and to our Amey Consulting team for their environmental project work on our Area 13 contract. “These achievements highlight the breadth of talent, skills and collaborative approaches we have at Amey to innovate, engage and deliver for our client.” Amey was also shortlisted in the Delivery – Supply Chain Collaboration category for the work undertaken on Area 7 as part of the East Midlands Asset Delivery (EMAD).

“Participants become the ‘next generation’ of green building specialists – and also act as ambassadors in their home country, applying and promoting the knowledge they have gained locally.” OeAD student housing – part of Austria’s national agency for international mobility and cooperation in education, science and research - operates GBS under a not-forprofit arrangement. Registration is now open and more details can be found at https://summer-university. net/gbs-vienna/ As well as GBS, OeAD student housing also runs the Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems (AEMS) summer university which, like GBS, will take place in 2021 digitally from July 19 to August 6. More at https:// summer-university.net/aems-vienna/

GBS not only adds on to the participants’ qualifications and education in a unique way, it also raises awareness about resources and climate issues in connection with building and construction.

I’m immensely proud of all the teams that have collaborated with our sector counterparts to bring to life a new impact protection vehicle that will protect our people on the network, the Area 10 team who have been engaged and delivering for the customer prior to and post mobilisation of the contract and to our Amey Consulting team for their environmental project work on our Area 13 contract.

outcome to restore the balance of biodiversity in the area. “This has contributed to the National Pollinator Strategy which is vital for helping pollinating insects survive and thrive and the species rich habitat will noticeably improve the journey for drivers too.”

Dean Kerwick-Chrisp, Highways England Principal Environmental Advisor, commented on the Delivery award win, saying: “This project shows partnership working at its very best and everyone involved can be very proud of what they have achieved.

These award wins recognises the work that is taking place across all Amey’s Highways England contract which includes, Area 7, Area 10, Avonmouth and Severn Bridges as well as the Area 12 contract which is currently being mobilised and preparing to go live in June this year. Amey Consulting’s contracts with Highways England include Area 10,13 and 14 Design Services, Data Science Partner, A66 Northern Transpennine Design Partner, Specialist Professional & Technical Services 2 (SPaTS2) framework, North East Regional Technology Maintenance Contract (RTMC), Collaborative Delivery Framework (CDF). Amey Consulting also delivers air quality projects through Innovate UK.

“Working with wildlife organisations, community groups and our contractors we have been able to agree the best locations, the right methods and the correct plant species to make sure we get the best

To find out more information about the awards and to re-watch the virtual ceremonies, follow the link https:// highwaysengland.co.uk/about-us/ highways-england-awards-2019-20/

Construction UK Magazine - March 2021 49

Feature

IS MODULAR THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION? For over a decade, sustainability has been one of the biggest buzzwords in British construction. But with less than thirty years until the UK’s legally-enshrined 2050 deadline for achieving net zero carbon, now is the time to take action. Nick Cowley, Managing Director of Euramax Solutions, argues that modular construction can make a major contribution. There’s no question that UK construction, and construction worldwide, has an enormous environmental impact. In recent years, businesses across the sector have gone to great lengths to cut their carbon footprints - but there’s still a very long way to go. The UK Green Building Council estimates that British construction produces around 400 million tonnes of waste materials every year – and globally, buildings and construction are responsible for 36% of energy use, and 39% of total carbon emissions. The stark reality is that we’re major contributors to the environmental crisis – which means that between now and 2050, we’ve got a lot of work to do. But while that might sound like an incredibly daunting prospect, it’s equally possible to see it in a different light – that as the sector with the biggest impact, we also have the biggest potential to make positive change. Making the case for modular Our obligations to act on climate change aren’t just ethical – increasingly, they’re legal, too. From 2025, the government’s Future Homes Standard is likely to bring sweeping changes to how our sector operates – and as we get

closer to the government’s 2050 deadline for achieving net zero emissions, we can expect sustainability legislation to become even more stringent. So how do we rise to this challenge? What should the sector do to achieve that urgently needed green transformation? Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer for a problem of this magnitude and complexity. But at Euramax Solutions, we believe modular construction has huge potential to help radically change how building impacts the environment. Why? Because it offers multiple ways to reduce the overall carbon footprint of a construction project. It allows builds to be completed in up to half the time compared to traditional methods using up to 67% less energy, and producing up to 90% less waste. According to Forbes, only 7.5% of UK buildings were constructed using modular methods in 2017-2018. But imagine if modular construction became the norm – those waste and energy savings would multiply dramatically, and make a vital contribution to cutting the sector’s overall impact. A game-changer for sustainable construction Of course, carbon footprint isn’t just calculated based on the materials and energy that goes into producing a building, or installing it on site – it takes account of

Nick Cowley

everything up to and including the number of delivery lorries a project puts on the road. Since so much of the work that goes into making a modular building takes place in a factory, that means modular projects can require up to 90% fewer site deliveries – another major benefit. As modular building becomes more popular, it’s likely that the number of factory sites specialising in it will increase – which could allow modular components to be made more locally, and further reduce the need for carbon-intensive long-haul deliveries as a result. Modular is still a relatively young field. But in years to come, I think we’ll see an increase in modular building components being recycled, too, which could be a real gamechanger for sustainability in construction. A long road ahead – but we’re going in the right direction The good news is that modular construction appears to be taking off around the world. According to the UK Commission on Employment & Skills, the British modular construction market has the potential to grow from £1.5bn to £6bn. At Euramax Solutions, we’re seeing rising demand from modular construction companies, and already supply some of the sector’s biggest names thanks to our cutting-edge lineside delivery system, that means everything our clients need arrive in dedicated stillages, exactly when they need it. Recent years have also seen the construction of Europe’s tallest modular building, the 28-storey Apex House in Wembley, which took just a year to build, with up to eleven apartment units installed each day. On the global scale, Fortune Business Insights expects modular to be worth over $107bn by 2026, up from $64bn in 2018. There’s no question – there’s still a long way to go. But with people embracing the potential of modular construction all around the world, we’re optimistic about the future. For more information on Euramax Solutions, its products and the sectors it supplies to, visit www.euramaxuk.com or call 01226 361639.

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Feature

WHAT WILL 2021 AND BEYOND HOLD FOR ARCHITECTS? Leading London networking business Urbano, recently posed this question to a group of senior architects in a webinar. On the panel was our own Annie Lieu, who joined representatives from other esteemed consultancies to discuss the impact that current events have had on the industry and what the year ahead is looking like. A RIBA statement in October last year, revealed that over £3.5 billion of work was scrapped, with a further £7.5 billion on hold. There is no doubt that times are tough and as a result, competition is fierce, which is bringing about a “race to the bottom” on price. It is up to the industry to retain consistency and standards without compromising on quality, which occurs when costs and corners are cut. For architects involved in retail, there are additional challenges due to the pandemic escalating the popularity for online shopping. The customer journey is changing, and we need to respond to this across both the retail and hospitality sectors, by looking into placemaking and taking a multi-faceted approach. The role of designers should be transforming experiences and collaborating in a more community-driven environment. There are going to be opportunities for architects as spaces need to be repurposed to adapt to the rapidly changing market and make them work differently. Post pandemic, making people feel safe is going to be an important criteria in

how space is utilised. Airport lounges for example will increase in numbers and popularity, as people feel safer in less crowded spaces and will be prepared to pay for this premium. The pandemic has highlighted the opportunity to be innovative. We will start to see the regeneration of town centres, with vacant office and retail units making way for more placemaking facilities, with spaces for people to live, work and play. What of rural areas? There is concern over the impact that Brexit has had on these communities, which have seen funding all but disappear. Rural estates need to be optimised to work a little harder, and to look into opportunities for change of use, such as including holiday accommodation, conference, leisure and lifestyle facilities. And what of London and the larger cities? Interestingly, certain sectors respond more slowly to change, and what is referred to as “critical impact” can take up to three years. What we will start to see more of is changes to the profiles of buildings and some environmental changes, with more and more green spaces. Overall, there is optimism about the residential sector. The large government debt will see the need for more jobs to be created, to generate taxes to help the economy recover. This will result in more employment in the construction industry. Advancements in construction methods will be explored more than ever, prioritising the use of off-site modern

Overall, there is optimism about the residential sector. The large government debt will see the need for more jobs to be created, to generate taxes to help the economy recover. This will result in more employment in the construction industry. Advancements in construction methods will be explored more than ever, prioritising the use of off-site modern methods of construction (MMC) to deliver homes at a faster pace than traditional methods. Schools can also take advantage of this form of construction to speed up the shortfall. methods of construction (MMC) to deliver homes at a faster pace than traditional methods. Schools can also take advantage of this form of construction to speed up the shortfall. However, off-site needs to think very carefully about the environment and sustainability, for what is basically moving boxes of air over vast distances. A way round this is to source things as locally as possible. There is no doubt that sustainability is going to be increasingly important regardless of sector. With government targets set to achieve net zero carbon by 2050, advancements in technology can support this initiative by utilising collaborative tools such as BIM level 2, which gives an accurate picture of initial costs and whole life costs, encouraging clients to implement sustainable solutions upfront. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) will become an increasingly important factor in architecture, being the world’s leading sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure and buildings. In conclusion, there are certainly going to be challenges, but also opportunities that arise from the shifting needs for buildings and spaces and how we will use them.

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Feature

CRITICAL COMPLIANCE: HOW TO AVOID WATER POLLUTION ON YOUR CONSTRUCTION PROJECT James Baylis, Technical Sales Engineer at Siltbuster, the leading water treatment specialist, explains how businesses can respect their duties when it comes to the management of water pollution through preventative and proactive measures.

vehicles in designated areas where adequate spill prevention can be provided.

It’s safe to say that most pollution events aren’t deliberate. Instead, they’re the result of negligence. Still, negligence isn’t an excuse in the eyes of the law. Today’s sentencing guidelines allow judges to enact swift, severe penalties for businesses that fail to take water treatment seriously.

The final major source of pollution on construction sites is concrete wash water, which is highly alkaline. One measure that firms can adopt to better manage concrete wash water is to establish a designated washout area well away from drainage gullies, surface water drains and water bodies. This serves to contain slurry, solids and any liquids generated during the washing down of equipment which has come into contact with fresh concrete.

The good news is that through preventative measures, firms can minimise the risk of creating onsite water problems and deal with any should they arise.

However, even after implementing such processes, silty, oily and cementitious waters can still arise, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. So, what can be done to treat these polluted waters?

Prevention In order to avoid serious fines for breaching environmental regulations, it is important that firms understand how to prevent the most common sources of onsite water pollution – silty waters, oil and concrete wash water.

Solutions Silty water can be tankered offsite, however this is often prohibitively expensive, with each tanker costing around £1,000. As a result, it makes more economic sense to treat it onsite.

Due to the ease with which it can occur, silty waters account for roughly 40 percent of the pollution problems on construction sites. When topsoil is stripped the land’s strongest defence against erosion is removed. The remaining surface has no protection from rainfall and run-off, which carries exposed soil particles to nearby drains and watercourses. With this in mind, preemptive measures can be put in place, including only stripping the minimum area necessary, installing silt fences in areas to minimise scouring – worsened when surfaces are compacted by the use of heavy machinery – and digging cut off ditches to divert run-off from flowing through the site. Hydrocarbons, such as petrol, diesel, kerosene and oils, can also pollute surface runoff. Historical spillages that have been absorbed into the land and unmapped pipe networks still full of product are the main sources of this kind of pollution, most commonly encountered on remediation projects. Again, there are measures firms can take, including providing oil spill kits and refuelling

One solution is the construction of settlement lagoons. These will help with the management of suspended solids, but do take up a lot of space on construction sites. Plus, these efforts may not work well in areas of geology with chalk and clay, due to the very fine particle sizes and poor settlement characteristics. A more compact solution is to use lamella clarifiers which are up to 20 times more space efficient than traditional baffle tanks or lagoons. If the silty waters have fine slow settling particles, such as clays, a chemical dosing stage may also be required to aggregate the particles and increase the settlement rate. Such systems can be hired or purchased to work in conjunction with existing lagoons or with portable clarifiers. In certain cases, such as site remediation projects, oil contaminated water may be hard to avoid and an oil water separator will be needed to remove the contamination. A floating hydrocarbon leaves a visually obvious rainbow sheen to water, whilst denser contaminants such as creosote and coal tar will simply sink to the bottom of a tank. Both can

52 Construction UK Magazine - March 2021

be easily separated from water by either flotation for contaminants with a lower density than water, or settlement for contaminants with a higher density than water. However, if hydrocarbons are found to be in a dissolved phase, treatment is significantly more expensive, and typically achieved by absorbing the hydrocarbons onto carbon through the use of GAC vessels. Care should be taken when working with free phase hydrocarbons as selection of the wrong sort of pump can emulsify the oils, making treatment harder. A low sheer pump, such as a progressive cavity or diaphragm pump, is best suited to these applications. Cementitious water is highly alkaline. In fact, its pH is between 12 and 13, which is equivalent to oven cleaner. This makes it highly damaging when discharged to the aquatic environment. For this, dilution isn’t a practical or cost-effective treatment method – it takes 10,000 litres of water to lower 1 litre of concrete wash water with a pH of twelve to an acceptable pH of eight. Mineral acids, such as sulphuric or hydrochloric acid, neutralise alkaline pH conditions, but they can be dangerous to handle, create secondary pollutants and, unless there is a high degree of acid dosing control and buffering, a highly alkaline problem can be swapped for a highly acidic problem. Treatment systems that incorporate carbon dioxide as a neutralising agent are typically cost-effective and fit for purpose. The gas generates no hazardous by-products in the water, is easy to store and, as the reaction is self-buffering, it is virtually impossible to overdose and acidify the water. Conclusion There are some simple, yet proactive, steps construction firms can take to deal with water pollution. The key lesson is to be pre-emptive rather than reactive; to anticipate the problems, prepare for the unexpected and know what the solutions are – in essence, to plan. To help companies remain compliant, Siltbuster provides CPD accredited courses, during which delegates learn about the reasons behind relevant legislation, the courtroom terms and measures designed to reduce the risk of pollution events occurring onsite. For more information, call 01600 772256, email enquiries@siltbuster.com or visit www.siltbuster.com

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