April 2021
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Contents April 2021
04
MPs to PM ‘Put manufacturing skills at heart of national curriculum’
06
Platform Housing Group set to launch wellbeing fund
09
Kier to deliver brand-new £7m depot in Leeds
14
Beard bags a brace for Bristol Sport with new training facility
15
North Wales construction company to deliver much-needed new school
16
Construction work begins on new 300home development in Market Rasen
20
Major Parisian Data Centre Specifies KPS Piping To Fuel Backup Generators
28
Willmott Dixon becomes the first contractor to achieve Level 3 of the Carbon Trust’s Supply Chain Standard
30
Arbicon: Retention in Construction Contracts – Five Top Tips for Recovery
34
Amey pledges to continue drive for positive impact in Social Value Report
38
Machinery Feature - Demand for used machinery: the upward trend continues
42
Challenges for construction in 2021: Everything you need to know and how to prepare
Front cover image by Juan Pablo Malo
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Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 03
Latest News
MPS TO PM: ‘PUT MANUFACTURING SKILLS AT HEART OF NATIONAL CURRICULUM’ A group of MPs has today urged the Government to hardwire manufacturing skills into the heart of the national curriculum. An Early Day Motion signed by some 18 MPs calls for the Government to prepare young people for a career in manufacturing in a bid to close the sector’s growing skills gap. The motion is the brainchild of Merseyside-based valve manufacturer Heap & Partners. The skills gap will only grow larger in a sector which is vital to the UK’s economy if the Government fails to present it as a viable career path, the MPs warned. UK manufacturing accounts for some £191 billion of output, while British manufacturers collectively provide 2.7 million jobs.
RIBA REACTS TO GREEN HOMES GRANT AXE The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the Government’s £300m additional energy efficiency funding for green home upgrades and axe of Green Homes Grant scheme. “I’m disappointed to see the Government scrap the Green Homes Grants scheme without committing to long-term energy efficiency investment. While the scheme was clearly mismanaged, we must bring an end to this stop-start cycle of second-rate retrofitting policy. We need a comprehensive National Retrofit Strategy with adequate funding and clear roadmap for action. I hope that there will be lessons learned from this debacle. The additional funding pledged today and the focus on low-income homes
must be welcomed, but I’m concerned the Government fails to grasp the scale of the problem – at least 19 million UK homes requiring retrofitting. But we’re not only calling for more money; policymakers must also provide incentives for those ‘able to pay’ to update their own homes. By reforming property taxes such as stamp duty and council tax, the Government can help accelerate this urgent programme.” The RIBA’s ‘Greener Homes’ campaign urges the Government to make homes more energy efficient by bringing forward a National Retrofit Strategy and introduce a sliding scale of stamp duty, capped at £25,000, with the most energy efficient homes accruing significantly less tax than the least energy efficient.
I’m disappointed to see the Government scrap the Green Homes Grants scheme without committing to long-term energy efficiency investment. While the scheme was clearly mismanaged, we must bring an end to this stop-start cycle of second-rate retrofitting policy.
04 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
In 2019 manufacturing accounted for more than 17 percent of the UK’s GDP, while today the sector accounts for around half of the country’s exports. Despite this there is a growing skills gap in the sector, with 186,000 skilled individuals needing to be hired every year until 2024 to fill the void. Tabled by Labour’s Kate Osborne, the motion has been signed by a host of figures including Ian Lavery MP (Wansbeck), Zarah Sultana MP (Coventry South), and Mick Whitley MP (Birkenhead). Independent MP Claudia Webbe and Democratic Unionist Party MP Jim Shannon have also given their signatures. With the sector’s role in driving Britain’s economy forward, the MPs warned the national curriculum currently does little to equip young people with the skills required to pursue a career in manufacturing. They also raised concerns over a lack of nationwide awareness of manufacturing as a potential and viable career path. The MPs also highlighted the growing calls of small and medium-sized manufacturers, who want an urgent review of the curriculum in a bid to see the industry receive greater representation. The motion was welcomed by business leaders, who called for the Government to use education to close the skills gap and help the sector thrive going forward as it recovers from the pandemic. David Millar, Heap & Partners Managing Director, said: “Manufacturing is vital to the UK’s economic wellbeing and we desperately need to protect it going forward.
With the threat of a growing skills gap education is the silver bullet, but there is currently nothing in the curriculum which inspires students to pursue a career in manufacturing. Presenting it as a viable career path is crucial if Britain’s manufacturing is to continue to grow, and I strongly urge the Prime Minister to use education to empower young people to enter the sector.
Latest News RECYCLED PLASTIC ROAD KERBS WILL BECOME ‘THE NEW NORMAL’ The use of polymeric kerbs in major road construction and maintenance has been given the green light with their recent inclusion within the Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works (MCHW-Clause 1118). The latest amendment to the key document used by road construction professionals is a landmark achievement for innovative manufacturers like us and removes all legislative barriers for use in the UK. Since 2003, Dura Products has manufactured Durakerb, a sustainable kerb unit comprised of 88% recycled polymer, and has long advocated the benefits of plastic kerbs, thanks to their high recycled content and lightweight composition. The company has seen demand for its environmentally friendly solutions grow in recent years, driven by legal obligations outlined in the 2015 CDM regulations and a renewed focus on climate change. This increased demand for polymeric kerbs is expected to be fueled further after their
classification as “Standard” under Clause 1118 in the MCHW. The inclusion in this document, which has been the primary source of information regarding the design, construction, and maintenance of major roads in the UK since 1992, will encourage uptake by marking their effectiveness and removing legislative barriers. Steve Bennett, Managing Director at Dura Products, added: “For the construction industry to have a sustainable future, innovative green products must be officially recognised to assure contractors of their quality and trustworthiness. This has been an incredibly important and time-intensive journey for us, as highlighted by Durakerb’s first accreditation success back in 2008 by BBA/HAPAS. But after 17 years, we are incredibly proud that our kerb units are now accepted as standard for use on major highways. It is a true example of the construction industry adopting change and preparing the ground for future innovation.”
PROMINENT FIRE STOPPING BUSINESS REVEALS MOST COMMON FIRE RISKS FireArrest surveyed experts to shine a light on the biggest fire risks Prominent fire stopping business, FireArrest, recently performed a study with a range of fire professionals to understand what, in their experience, are the most common fire risks. As we all know the management of fire risks within a property is the single most important factor when it comes to saving lives, protecting properties and the contents within them. The survey looked at three key areas of fire safety: • Buildings. • Liabilities. • Hidden risks.
When FireArrest asked what kind of building was at most risk of fire, seven out of ten said that the most fire risks were present within private homes. FireArrest then asked what the biggest fire risks were in terms of materials, 39% said combustible materials, 35% said electrical materials and 23% said vulnerable infrastructure. Finally, they asked the experts about the most common hidden risks, 31% of the responses agreed that walls and ceilings present the biggest dangers since they aren’t immediately visible. 23% said that entranceways were the biggest hidden fire risk within a property.
Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 05
Latest News
NAVIGATING THE POSTBREXIT PPE SUPPLY CHAIN – ARCO PUBLISHES AN EXPERT GUIDE TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE Following the UK’s exit from the EU and the transition period finishing at the end of December 2020, new rules for businesses came into effect on 1 January 2021. For many businesses, the challenges of adapting to the changes may seem overwhelming, particularly for those buying PPE, who want to ensure the products they purchase meet the required standards. With its experience of the global supply chain, expertise in PPE regulations and standards and in-depth knowledge of product compliance and quality assurance Arco, the UK’s leading safety company, is in the unique position to advise its customers on the changes. The company has created an Expert Advice sheet which includes essential information for those purchasing PPE, guiding them through changes in Regulations, the
PLATFORM HOUSING GROUP SET TO LAUNCH WELLBEING FUND A Midlands-based social landlord has announced the launch of extra funds to support people within its communities. Platform Housing Group’s £1.4million Wellbeing Fund will be available from 1 April this year. The aim of the fund - which was originally launched in 2020 – is to provide fast and flexible support to customers during challenging times; the fund can help cover the cost of food, essential items such as school uniforms, energy and utility costs as well as helping to bridge the gap between a benefit application and the first payment.
Standards and assessment bodies and providing an overview of the introduction of the new UKCA marking. Arco also advises on the transitional arrangements in place for existing manufactured products and CE marked products. The Guide also covers key aspects of the new UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking, that will be placed on products as a means of showing conformance with the relevant UK legislation, it will become Great Britain’s equivalent of the CE mark. Category I PPE will remain self-certified however, Category II and III PPE for sale in Great Britain will need a UKCA certificate from a UK Conformity Assessment Body. (Or a CE mark during the transitional period). Arco’s Expert Advice sheet summarises the essential information that those purchasing PPE will need to know and explains:
The fund also offers support packages for the following: Employment and training – this includes help with training or accreditation costs or sponsorship for tuition or a course. It can also cover help with travel costs or workwear for a new job. Online career coaching is also available through the tech social enterprise expert, Stay Nimble; Household furniture – this includes white goods and flooring for those who have moved home or need help replacing fridges or washing machines; Digital inclusion – the fund can also help with costs for broadband, devices and a host of other digital needs. Health and wellbeing – to increase physical and mental health and wellbeing, the fund can be used to join classes, activities and groups. Elizabeth Froude, Group Chief Executive at Platform Housing Group said : “We plan to balance the impact of the increase on customers that need help by boosting our Platform Wellbeing Fund to the tune of £1.4million for 2021/22. Established in 2020, the fund has already provided more
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With 2020 dominated by the UK’s response to the Corona virus- pandemic, our exit from the EU has dropped down the news agenda but there are some critical changes to deal with and businesses buying and producing PPE need to be prepared. Our expert Advice Guide is designed to help all business get a better understanding of their obligations, to make sure conformity is guaranteed and that people remain safe at work. • Geographical regions • Where to look for a UKCA marking • Relevant dates and timeline from January 2021 Neil Hewitt, Arco’s Divisional Director Quality and Technical Standards, says: “With 2020 dominated by the UK’s response to the Corona virus- pandemic, our exit from the EU has dropped down the news agenda but there are some critical changes to deal with and businesses buying and producing PPE need to be prepared. “Our expert Advice Guide is designed to help all business get a better understanding of their obligations, to make sure conformity is guaranteed and that people remain safe at work.”
than £173,000 of immediate and practical help in the form of payments to cover fuel and water costs, benefits delays and other essentials. We have also supported local foodbanks and Christmas toy and gift appeals across our areas with donations of more than £57,000. The fund is flexible and is designed to recognise that customers have many needs that go beyond the homes we provide, focussing on financial and emotional support that makes a tangible difference, impacting positively on local lives.” 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. To apply for extra support customers should visit https://www.platformhg. com/wellbeing-fund.
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Company News
NEW LOGISTICS MANAGER AT ROOF TILE FIRM TO MEET GROWING DEMAND Leading pitched roof tile manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles has strengthened its management team to meet growing customer demand. Nicola Trainor, 30 from Cannock, Staffordshire has joined Russell Roof Tiles as Logistics Manager at its Burton HQ. She joins the manufacturer with over a decade’s worth of experience in the transport sector. Nicola’s appointment comes at a significant time for Russell Roof Tiles, currently employs 140 staff across its three sites (two in Burton) and in Lochmaben, Scotland.
As Logistics Manager, Nicola’s primary focus is plan and manage the dedicated transport team and hauliers, despatching goods from its three plants to construction sites across the UK. Russell Roof Tiles runs its own fleet of vehicles and its Transport team includes Transport Planners – who manage the fleet across delivering to customers across the UK. The team manages availability and resource level, performance management and compliance to meet all Covid safety regulations to ensure tiles and accessories are delivered on time and in the best condition. Nicola comments: “I will be looking after the whole of the logistics sector – from overseeing the day-to-day planning, making sure we keep scheduled deliveries running in the most effective way possible and most importantly making sure we are keeping our customers happy.” Russell Roof Tiles’ innovative community work originally attracted Nicola to the company, she comments: “Russell Roof Tiles has great company values especially
Russell Roof Tiles has great company values especially regarding its local communities and this really drew me in – I look forward to getting involved and helping where I can. regarding its local communities and this really drew me in – I look forward to getting involved and helping where I can.” Andrew Hayward, Managing Director at Russell Roof Tiles said: “Despite the construction industry ‘bounce back’ we appreciate there is a shortage of some construction materials so it’s vital that we focus on delivering fast and efficiently to meet demand. Nicola is a key addition to the team and will help us run the transport team in the most effective way possible. “We are pleased to welcome Nicola to Russell Roof Tiles and know she will be a valuable asset to the team.” Russell Roof Tiles is a leading independent pitched roof tile manufacturer supplying products for the top housebuilders and high-profile social housing and commercial projects. The company produces thousands of tiles every week that are used on roofs across the UK, for all of the UK’s premier housebuilders and developers.
AMEY LAUNCHES MATES IN MIND PARTNERSHIP TO SUPPORT EMPLOYEE WELLBEING Leading public service provider, Amey, has partnered with mental health charity, Mates in Mind, to promote positive mental wellbeing across the business. Mates in Mind, established to tackle the challenges of mental ill-health specifically within the construction sector, will help Amey drive positive change for both its employees and the industry. The partnership will enable Amey to roll out a comprehensive, bespoke mental health and wellbeing programme that will include all employee mental health awareness training, as well as people manager training, to provide vital guidance and support when it comes to managing mental health within the workplace. Taking proactive steps to address mental health in the workplace has never been more important as everyone continues to adapt to the challenges of the pandemic. Taking steps towards building a thriving workplace and a positive mental health culture that supports all employee’s mental wellbeing is essential.
Emma Shakespeare, Amey’s Group Wellbeing Manager, said: “By implementing a comprehensive programme, we are encouraging a positive mental health culture that supports every employee’s mental wellbeing. We hope that as the training will provide a better understanding of mental health issues and how to address them, everyone at Amey will feel supported in better managing their own wellbeing and that of others across the business. We are incredibly proud of the role our employees play across the country and it’s important we look after them in every way we can.” James Rudoni, Managing Director of Mates in Mind, said: “We are delighted to welcome Amey as the latest major employer to join Mates in Mind and create a mentally healthy workplace that will ensure vital advice, guidance and support is there to help individuals take control of their mental wellbeing.” Amey has also recently introduced Wellbeing Wednesdays, which give employees the opportunity to focus on a different wellbeing topic each month and normalises the conversation around
08 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
wellbeing. Amey has also launched a wellbeing podcast that supplements its wellbeing hub, that acts as a one-stop shop for wellbeing and mental health resources – including support on financial, physical, social and workplace wellbeing. All of Amey’s wellbeing initiatives are supported by a large network of Wellbeing Ambassadors and Mental Health First Aiders from the business that receive ongoing training, development and support to enable them to have the confidence and skills to deal effectively with whatever situations they are faced with.
We are delighted to welcome Amey as the latest major employer to join Mates in Mind and create a mentally healthy workplace that will ensure vital advice, guidance and support is there to help individuals take control of their mental wellbeing.
Company News
ASITE ACHIEVES BSI KITEMARK™ FOR BIM SOFTWARE In a landmark achievement for the pioneering software company, the Asite CDE is one of the world’s first to achieve certification to the new BSI Kitemark for BIM software Asite has announced that the Asite Common Data Environment (CDE) is one of the first organizations globally to achieve the BSI Kitemark for BIM software by BSI (British Standard Institution), the business improvement company. Asite has positioned itself as a key player in the industry and the benchmark in best practice, notably providing extensive experience consulting on the implementation of construction projects supporting compliance with the ISO 19650 suite of standards and boasting an industry-leading fully-compliant CDE. Rob Clifton, Asite Chief of Staff said: “We are delighted with this achievement and the work that our team has put into building such a resilient and innovative platform. We have always been proud of the services and products that we provide to clients, so to have this independently verified and certified by BSI as being best practice in the industry is a great achievement. “Developing our software to enable compliant delivery of BIM processes against the ISO 19650 framework is just one milestone; Asite will continue to lead the way in engineering and construction technology and help the world build better.” Andy Butterfield, Managing Director of Built Environment at BSI said: “As the demand for digital transformation in architecture, construction and asset management continues to grow, and the number of potential software support tools escalates, it is becoming increasingly difficult for organizations to identify appropriate software to support their needs. “Asite has become one of the first organizations globally to achieve this mark of trust and I would like to congratulate them all for their commitment to encouraging a collaborative approach across the life cycle of a built asset.” The Asite CDE was subject to a comprehensive assessment and audit of its functionality, development, security, resilience, support, and customer satisfaction. The certification gives assurance that the user-functionality of the Asite CDE enables information management in accordance with the relevant process requirements of the ISO 19650 framework. The Asite Digital Engineering team is also one of only a few organizations worldwide with a British Standards Institution’s Associate Consultant Programme (BSI ACP) certificate of membership. It consults on the BS EN ISO 19650 standards and supports clients in their journey to achieve BSI BIM Kitemarks.
KIER TO DELIVER BRAND-NEW £7M DEPOT IN LEEDS Kier has been appointed by Leeds City Council to deliver its new £7m Newmarket Approach depot in Leeds. The project includes three storey-office accommodation, fuel filling, vehicle wash facilities and extensive electric vehicle charging and parking for Leeds City Council’s fleet of operational vehicles. The scheme includes the relocation and merger of the current facilities, to take them from three sites onto one. This will lead to maximised efficiency of the services bringing the teams together onto one site adjacent to the new Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility. The project is being delivered with sustainability in mind, and as well as
the electric charging points it will have a positive impact on sustainability for the local area. Kier are installing an attenuation tank to collect and store rainwater, which will then be used within the vehicle wash facilities, reducing the amount of freshwater used. Areas at the front of the building will incorporate significant soft landscaping which greatly enhances the biodiversity of the existing area which is predominantly an industrial area. The project is due for completion in the spring of 2022. Dan Doherty, regional director at Kier Regional Building North & Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to be working alongside Leeds City Council at Newmarket Approach to further rationalise its existing estate. Our regional business is underpinned by public sector clients such as LCC and key frameworks such as YORbuild2. We look forward to a successful completion in due course.”
Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 09
People On The Move
HANEVO APPOINT DAVE SHAW AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER HANEVO, the national MEICA, civil engineering and critical environments contract partner, are pleased to announce the appointment of Dave Shaw as their new Chief Operating Officer. Dave brings over 30 years of industry knowledge and experience to the business having previously held the position of Regional Director for Barhale. Dave will work with the board on the strategic development of the company and will be responsible for day to day management of the operational delivery of multi-disciplined activities. Key will be focus on the role the business plays in achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. With a recent AMP7 Water framework award being a first for the company and exciting new opportunities being developed, Dave will build on the sustainable growth strategy HANEVO has followed to date. Sorcha Hanley confirmed: “We are delighted Dave has agreed to join HANEVO. The shareholders have taken time in finding the right person with the right values and knowledge to fit within our business. This is an important board appointment as the role will be key to how we develop within our challenging and exciting industry. With a proven track record in civil engineering, coupled with a strong background in contracting, Dave brings a wealth of industry experience to HANEVO and we wish him every success in his new role.” Dave Shaw noted: “I am delighted to be joining Hanevo who are a business with a great reputation with their existing clients and who live and deliver by their values”.
OLLIE HUGHES APPOINTED AS PORTFOLIO DIRECTOR FOR GEO BUSINESS AND DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK Event organiser Diversified Communications UK has announced the appointment of Ollie Hughes as Portfolio Director for GEO Business and Digital Construction Week (DCW). David Maguire, Group Event Director says: “Ollie founded DCW seven years ago and joined Diversified in early 2019, when the event was acquired. Ollie came to the business with a wealth of knowledge and experience having launched his own event, coupled with his experience of working at UBM prior to this. “Ollie has been instrumental in the success of DCW and with GEO Business co-locating in 2021, he is, of course, the perfect person to drive both brands forward.” This comes alongside the news that Caroline Hobden, former Portfolio Director of GEO Business, will head up Diversified’s Accountex portfolio of trade shows and virtual events.
Ollie Hughes comments: “I’m excited and honoured to be running both GEO Business and DCW under the same portfolio. While both will remain separate events with their own audiences and identities, there are a number of opportunities I’m keen to delve into. Both events are incredibly community orientated. As the influence of those two communities grows, I’m eager to explore how the two can align closer together.
Crucially, I’m looking forward to working with the GEO Business community and committee in delivering a great event this year. And to carrying on the incredible work done by Caroline and the team in developing GEO Business into the show it is today.
NEW EURAMAX HIRE TO SPEARHEAD CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT Euramax Solutions, a manufacturer of fenestration products to the construction, modular and leisure markets, has appointed an expert to spearhead constant improvement processes within the business. Tom Howard joins the company as the new Continuous Improvement and Process Engineering Manager, and with extensive experience in the military equipment sector, he’s the perfect man for the job. He brings with him a wealth of expertise, having previously worked as a Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer at Naylor Industries, and as a Production Engineering Manager at Niftylift, where he had complete responsibility for all production engineering staff. But it’s the skills and knowledge he gained as a Senior Project Engineer at MTL Advanced, a manufacturing specialist in the metal sector, that really sets him up to push innovation at Euramax. Here, Tom was the project lead for the manufacture of armoured vehicle cabins, responsible for the external supply chain management for projects.
10 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
“Since starting at Euramax, I’ve leaned on my experience in the military equipment sector, using this methodology to implement constant improvement processes within the company and create a more automotive, military precision approach to production,” Tom comments. “This allows us to offer better service and faster delivery times, enhancing our customers’ experience.” Working from their 205,000 square foot factory in Barnsley, Euramax is a leading manufacturer of PVCu windows and doors, supplying to the off-site and modular construction, DIY and home improvement, new build, holiday home and leisure markets. Euramax Managing Director Nick Cowley comments: “Tom is a motivated manufacturing professional with a proven record of success in the sector, and comes with a wealth of transferable skills. He’s been working to streamline our manufacturing processes, enabling us to deliver better quality products, faster lead times, and an overall better service to our customers. “He’s a welcome addition to the team, and we look forward to seeing what he can do for the company in the coming months.”
Latest News
OROCCO MOVES TO FOUR-DAY WEEK! Edinburgh building contractor Orocco has this month made waves within the industry by implementing a universal four-day working week. The forward thinking move is the result of a consultation had with its 42-strong workforce and it’s believed to be one of the first construction companies in Scotland if not the UK to adopt the new working model. The company, which specialises in highend building and renovation projects, also includes a bespoke joinery manufacturing workshop MadeByOrocco as part of its core business, and in recent years has expanded to include Trinity Decorating Services within its portfolio. The full team of skilled trades, painters and decorators, and office staff are all set to take up the new four-day week from May 2021. The change to their working week will see all employees working compressed full time hours Monday to Thursday, giving them Fridays off and a longer weekend. For the client, there will be no reduction in the total number of hours spent on a project each week.
The idea behind the change is to boost employee wellbeing and to improve work/life balance. Already an established model in Europe, more flexible patterns of working look set to become a growth trend here in the UK too. Orocco hopes to reflect the recent shift in working patterns which are already being seen across many other workforce sectors. The new four-day working week model offers several well-documented benefits. Not only does it reduce a business’s carbon footprint, but it’s also been shown to increase productivity, as well as improving staff happiness and reducing stress. For the team within Orocco and their group of businesses, they will offer employees more flexibility to work around home life or childcare responsibilities. Managing director Mark Ivinson explains, “When we spoke to staff after the recent changes that the Covid-19 pandemic had brought to our working lives, it became clear that people enjoyed having that extra time at home, either to catch up on home projects or to spend more time with loved ones. We listened and wanted to make a permanent change to how we work.” The benefits of better working patterns on mental health and wellbeing are increasingly being promoted. The team at Orocco clearly believe the timing is right to introduce a four-day week. Joint managing director Jonny Blurton adds, “We hope that this pioneering move by Orocco will lead the way for change within the construction industry.”
‘DANGEROUSLY RELAXED’ – RIBA EXPRESSES SERIOUS CONCERN ABOUT NEW PLANNING LAWS The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has responded to the Government’s new planning laws to turn unused commercial buildings into homes and fast-track the expansion of public buildings. RIBA President, Alan Jones, said: “I’m seriously worried about the Government’s ongoing obsession with extending Permitted Development Rights. “These new freedoms are dangerously relaxed, and lack critical safeguards to prevent further damage to suffering high
streets by turning essential community amenities into, all too often, substandard homes. “We urgently need well-designed, mixed use developments that provide long term value for their communities and residents, delivered by sufficiently resourced local authorities – not a race to the bottom. “I call for urgent reconsideration of this legislation that fundamentally contradicts the Government’s wider aim of revitalising town centres and developing better homes. This is not the answer.”
We urgently need well-designed, mixed use developments that provide long term value for their communities and residents, delivered by sufficiently resourced local authorities – not a race to the bottom.
12 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
NEW BUSINESS PARK TO PROVIDE 500,000 SQ FT OF EMPLOYMENT SPACE - MARKET HARBOROUGH An outline planning application has been submitted for the development of a new high quality business park which has the potential to create hundreds of new jobs for the town. Wellington Business Park is strategically located to the north-west of the town on a 25-acre site within one mile of the A6 and forms part of the wider Market Harborough Strategic Development Area. The site is allocated in the Harborough District Council Local Plan for a mix of uses including offices, industrial and warehousing. The masterplan includes flexibility for a range of employment units and will also feature extensive landscaping with pedestrian and cycle links into the town centre. Historically, the site formed part of the airfield that was used by the RAF in World War II and was home to the Wellington Bombers of No. 14 Operational Training Unit of RAF Bomber Command. Commercial property agents, Prop-Search has been appointed as sole agent to market and promote the new business park, which has the potential for up to a total of 500,000 sq ft of space for offices and manufacturing and distribution occupiers. Director at Prop-Search, Richard Baker, said: “Wellington Busines Park represents an exciting opportunity to create a significant number of jobs for the Market Harborough area.” Buildings will be available on a build to suit basis with industrial/warehouse units from 10,000 sq ft to 100,000 sq ft and office buildings from 5,000 sq ft. Opportunities will be available on a leasehold or freehold basis.
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Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 13
Project News
BEARD BAGS A BRACE FOR BRISTOL SPORT WITH NEW TRAINING FACILITY Bristol construction firm Beard has completed a state-of the-art training facility for Bristol City Football Club – its second high profile development for Bristol Sport in less than a year.
The family-run building company has delivered on the Robins High Performance Centre at Failand, which follows the completion of rugby club Bristol Bears’ facility last year, also for Bristol Sport.
Images: Rogan/JPM
The development represents an important project for Bristol City FC as it will bring together the club’s academy and senior team on a single site for the first time, as well as being a central hub for the players and coaching staff outside of match days. The facility includes three full-size pitches, including a floodlit show-pitch capable of hosting the club’s under-18 and under-23 matches. There is also a stand, tactical pitch and goalkeeping pitches, medical and rehabilitation facilities, gym, sports science facility and space for physiotherapists and coaches. Away from the pitch there is a kitchen and restaurant area, office space, and education and welfare facilities for City’s young players. The development took almost 18 months to build, but despite working within coronavirus restrictions was not subject to any major setbacks or compromise in terms of the vision for the project. The impressive design and quality finish in the construction further cements Beard’s status as a leader in the sport and leisure sector. Mike Hedges, Beard Bristol director, said they had developed a great working relationship with Bristol City and Bristol Sport over recent years due to the work with Bristol Bears. He said: “We’re really proud to have delivered this state-of-the-art training facility, just a couple of miles from Ashton Gate.
As a construction firm Beard has always believed in the importance of inspiring spaces, whether that’s for learning, working or performance. That is very much at the centre of this new training facility which will bring together the club’s academy and senior team on a single site for the first time. “To enable the next generation of Bristol City players to share the same space as the senior team is really important for their development and therefore the future prospects of the club. “This site is much more than just a training ground as the facility will provide a central hub for players and coaching staff outside of match day. “There is a clear vision for how this facility will help with the development of players at all levels, and we have been able to draw on years of experience of working in the sport and leisure sectors to bring that to life.”
14 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
Project News
NORTH WALES CONSTRUCTION COMPANY TO DELIVER MUCH-NEEDED NEW SCHOOL A North Wales construction company has won a £4.0m contract to build a muchneeded new primary school in Cricieth. Bodelwyddan-headquartered Wynne Construction is to deliver the new Ysgol Treferthyr on a greenfield site on the western approach to the Gwynedd town, around 500m from its current location. The project is being funded by the Welsh Government under the 21st Century Schools programme alongside Gwynedd Council. Ysgol Treferthyr is currently using a school built in the 19th century with a 1970s-built prefabricated extension in the centre of town with capacity for 119 pupils plus pre-schoolers, offering Welsh medium education for ages 3 to 11. Once completed, the new site will have space for around 150, as well as a nursery. This will include six classrooms with external access, a hall, kitchen and a multipurpose room, all on one floor for ease of access.
Outside, there will be a hard surface space for play, a multi-use games area and a grass playing field for PE lessons and community use when appropriate. Chris Wynne, managing director at Wynne Construction said: “We are very pleased to be working with Gwynedd Council on such an important investment in education in Cricieth. This is a significant project for the local community and throughout the construction of the new school, we will look to leaving a lasting legacy, by creating job and training opportunities, working with our local supply chain partners and engaging with pupils as well as showcasing the wide range and variety of job roles available within the construction industry. “Providing a modern 21st Century School facility where young people can learn and develop in an inspirational environment that serves the local community is paramount and reinforces our commitment to delivering a legacy within the town. “We look forward to getting the project underway.”
Work is currently slated to start in November and scheduled to take 18 months. As part of Wynne’s commitment to environmentally-friendly construction, 15 per cent of the materials budget will go on recycled products, and the finished building will achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainability at both design and postconstruction stages. Councillor Cemlyn Rees Williams, Gwynedd Council cabinet member for education said: “As a council, we are delighted to be able to develop plans for a new home for Ysgol Treferthyr. “The current building has seen better days and we look forward to seeing work start on the new site later this year.
It will provide Cricieth children with a new school offering modern facilities and a teaching environment reaching 21st Century Schools standards which that will help them to reach their full potential. Wynne Construction operates throughout Wales and the North West of England, and regularly leads on projects in sectors including education, healthcare, and sport and leisure. The company is also on the North Wales Construction Partnership (NWCP), the South-East and mid-Wales Collaborative Construction Framework (SEWSCAP3) and the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework (SSWRCF). In November 2018, it was named SME (up to 250 employees) of the year at the UKwide Constructing Excellence awards.
Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 15
Project News
LAND & WATER STARTS FINAL PHASE OF WORKS AT PEAK FOREST CANAL Leading wet civil engineering specialist, Land & Water, has started its final phase of dredging works at Peak Forest Canal in Manchester on behalf of the Canal & River Trust. The works which started in September 2020, and are due to finish this month, has seen Land & Water dredge 14,000 tonnes of material, the equivalent of 3,111 Indian elephants, from Whaley Bridge up to Portland Basin. The material has been disposed of via Augean’s Waste Facility with various off-load locations along the canal.
We have loved being part of this project, helping to preserve a canal which contains such important parts of British history.
CONSTRUCTION WORK BEGINS ON NEW 300-HOME DEVELOPMENT IN MARKET RASEN Chestnut Homes has commenced infrastructure works for the first 101 homes at a new development in Market Rasen. The homes represent the first phase of Chantrey Park, a development which is set to deliver 300 homes on land off Caistor Road, at the northern edge of the town.
The works are to improve the efficiency of the Canal for boaters, safeguarding it for years to come as it boasts two Scheduled Ancient Monuments, the historic three-arch Marple Aqueduct and Bugsworth Basin, in its 15 mile length. Lucy Lee, Contracts Manager at Land & Water, said: “We have loved being part of this project, helping to preserve a canal which contains such important parts of British history. “As part of the works we were able to use our brand new, purpose built, bespoke narrowbeam dredger, Sedge. This piece of machinery is perfect for restricted areas, allowing us to dredge materials from places which may usually not be accessible.” Land & Water has worked alongside the Canal & River Trust for over 20 years, providing environmental solutions, from dredging to vegetation clearance, to
The initial phase will deliver 81 houses for private sale, comprising a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes, while 20 properties will be provided as affordable housing. As well as new homes, the development will include areas of green open space towards the north of the site, creating a seamless transition with the existing countryside. David Newton, Managing Director of Chestnut Homes, said: “With construction work at Chantrey Park now underway, we are hoping to release the first homes for sale at the development this summer. Situated just over half a mile from the town centre, Chantrey Park will be a logical extension to
waterways up and down the country. This is part of the wet civil engineering firm’s commitment towards delivering, maintaining and sustaining the UK’s natural capital.
Market Rasen. Residents will be within a 20-minute walk of a wide range of amenities, including shops, schools, health facilities and the town’s railway station. “We are proud of our 30-year history in providing high-quality new homes in locations across Lincolnshire. As with our other sites in the county, this development will feature traditional house designs that reflect the existing style and character of the local towns and surrounding villages. Designed with contemporary lifestyles in mind, these homes will meet the demand from a variety of house-hunters, from first-time buyers seeking to step onto the property ladder to families looking to find their forever home.” In line with planning agreements for the initial phase of Chantrey Park, Chestnut Homes will be contributing £199,859 towards improvements to Market Rasen Primary School, £42,975 towards improvements to Market Rasen Surgery, £45,000 towards providing a skate park in the town, and £3,500 toward signage / white lining to make a foot and cycle path between the development and Church bridge. Further contributions will be confirmed in line with subsequent planning approval for the remaining 199 homes. The Lincolnshire housebuilder will also be retaining a majority of the site’s mature trees, vegetation and habitat areas, as well as planting new vegetation within the development. Chestnut Homes is expecting to welcome the first residents to Chantrey Park in early 2022.
16 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
MASKING A PROBLEM? The UK Construction industry has improved substantially on its Safety record over the last few decades, but certain Health issues in the industry are under some scrutiny at the moment. Respiratory complaints such as COPD and occupational Asthma caused by exposure to harmful dusts, gases and vapours are often not immediately diagnosed, and are on the rise. Symptoms do not manifest themselves for a number of years or even decades, by which time it is often too late to reverse debilitating medical conditions. The health issues caused by Silica dust (Silicosis) are a top priority for the HSE who are looking to reduce the worrying increasing number of sufferers. With over 35000 workers reporting they currently have breathing/ lung problems, caused or made worse by work, the cost to the construction industry in both lost time and expertise is enormous. Are you masking a problem? Sundström are a third generation family company with a passion for designing and manufacturing respiratory equipment. We have 90 years experience, and are proud of our reputation for quality and innovation. Our range includes a solution to most environments found in construction from half masks to airline, powered solutions to escape hoods. UK Sales Manager Tony Smith added; ‘It is not only about understanding the contaminant, but also the needs of the wearer, the employer and their legislative requirements. The equipment must be acceptable to all parties but above all it must be comfortable and compatible with all other PPE used by the wearer.’
SR 900
Sundström’s extensive range provides a solution to all your ‘masking problems’.
SR 200
Sundström are a third generation family company with a passion for designing and manufacturing respiratory equipment. We have 90 years experience, and are proud of our reputation for quality and innovation.
SR 500/580
The SR 100 half mask is widely used as the product of choice in the asbestos industry due to its excellent face fit performance. Due to the popularity of facial hair and the legal requirement to undertake face fit testing, the use of negative pressure masks may not be acceptable. Our powered units offer a comfortable and highly effective solution to extended respiratory practices whilst not requiring a face fit.
18 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
Our new SR 900 respiratory system gives the user the option to use a remote housing worn on a belt which takes the cumbersome heavy filter away from the face. This facilitates usage under visors, welding masks or just to improve on wearer acceptability. The same mask can be used on both powered and airline equipment offering a complete inter connective respiratory solution.
With a team of technical experts UK wide Sundström are happy to visit your sites. Give us a call and ‘unmask’ your respiratory problems!
For further information please contact Tony Smith (tony.smith@srsafety.com) or visit our website www.srsafety.com
Specialist Solutions for Complex Projects Swantest is a specialist company providing structural testing, investigation, remedial and strengthening solutions for complex projects. We are a team of multi-disciplined engineers who can provide a wide range of specialist site services to the demolition, construction and civil engineering industry. We specialise in: • • • • • • •
Load capacity tests Geotechnical tests Balcony & barrier tests Anchor & fixings tests Weld inspections Nondestructive Testing Bespoke Testing
• • • • • • •
Structural surveys & investigation 3D Point cloud surveys Structural alterations & strengthening Hydraulic lifting & jacking Preloading & torque loading Concrete repair & remediation Composite solutions
When it comes to site solutions, we want to provide our clients with a complete package of works. Therefore, Swantest can carry out all required elements for any complex project. Including initial site investigation and surveys, structural testing, subsequent remedial and strengthening solutions and design works if required. We can also provide ongoing monitoring and inspections where necessary. Swantest are part of a specialist temporary works design consultancy; Swanton Consulting Ltd. This gives us the advantage of having capability to carry out complex design solutions in house. We are UKAS accredited and have been working with industry leaders for over 10 years.
For more information call us on 0370 950 7707 Website: www.swantest.co.uk Email: info@swantest.co.uk 52-54 St. John Street, Farringdon, London, EC1M 4HF
Case Study A new data centre facility in Paris, France specified KPS double wall piping to fuel backup generators
MAJOR PARISIAN DATA CENTRE SPECIFIES KPS PIPING TO FUEL BACKUP GENERATORS This facility required a highperformance piping system which would allow a 933 litre/minute flow rate
A renowned international data centre management company required a conductive, leak free zeropermeation plastic pipe system for their new data centre in Paris, France. This system supplies diesel to the backup generators that provide electricity to the facility in case of interruption of the regular power supply. KPS piping was specified for this project to connect the diesel tanks with the backup generators on the roof, and to connect the remote fill points to the diesel tanks, providing an easy-install electrostatically safe solution.
Problem A power outage at a facility like this could be catastrophic to the service it provides, making a reliable emergency power system critical. To solve this problem, the facility has several backup generators in case of an interruption of the regular power supply.
KPS 2” (75/63mm) conductive double wall piping connects fuel tanks to backup generators
This French data centre required a high-performance piping system for their generators which would allow a 933 litre/minute flow rate. Due to the data centre’s location in an urban centre, generators were installed on the roof of the building, while the fuel tanks were located below ground.
Solution KPS’ conductive double wall polyethylene piping proved a perfect solution for this data centre. Installed following the installation of the fuel tanks and chambers, KPS’ 4” (125/110mm) double wall piping was installed to connect the remote fill points (the point where fuel tankers deliver fuel) to the below ground tanks, and KPS’ 2” (75/63mm) double wall piping was installed to connect fuel tanks to metal piping running up the outside wall of the facility, and from where the metal piping terminated on the roof, to the backup power generators.
20 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
Case Study Key Features Of KPS Piping For This Project • KPS 4” (125/110mm) piping allows a flow rate of 933 litre/minute enabling fast fuel delivery • KPS double wall piping includes an interstitial space between the inner and outer pipes, providing an extra layer of security • Electrostatically safe (conductive), avoiding potential static build-up • Installed by a certified professional (KPS offers an installer training and certification programme) • Fast, simple installation (compact electrofusion fittings)
KPS provided a liquid tight solution, including watertight entry boots
• Zero permeation: liquid/watertight • Corrosion-free
Results KPS’ plastic (polyethylene) pipe system provides data centres and cloud facilities like this one with reliable, safe fuel transfer solutions to supply facilities’ backup generators in case of an interruption of the regular power supply.
KPS’ 2” (75/63mm) double wall piping was installed to connect fuel tanks to metal piping running up the outside wall of the facility
KPS’ 4” (125/110mm) double wall piping was installed to connect remote fill points and below ground fuel tanks
As the use of data centres has increased, their requirements have evolved significantly. In recent years, this has led to an increasing need for efficiency, reliability, and reduced downtime risk, driving an increased focus on value over cost.
Visit the KPS website for more case studies
KPS piping has zero permeation (liquid/watertight)
KPS’ conductive piping is electrostatically safe, avoiding potential static build-up
Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 21
NUMBER 1 FOR SCAFFOLD ALARMS Panthera Group’s Security Division is the UK’s largest Scaffold Alarm installer. It’s also the country’s first and sole NACOSS Gold accredited supplier. This offers customers the peace of mind that Panthera is certified to National Code of Practice NCP115 and can install scaffold alarms for any project where scaffold security is required. Working with many of the largest organisations in the UK including banks, estate managers, surveyors and local authorities, as well as small businesses and construction clients, Panthera has a range of standard and customised security solutions that can be tailored to requirements. ScaffCam™ is an entry level video-verified alarm unit. Perfect for small areas on site, it is housed in a rugged casing for tamper free operation and can be connected to additional devices and peripherals. Its integral PIR securing camera captures 10 second, full colour clips when triggered which are transferred to a 24-hour monitoring centre where an appropriate response is determined. The unit operates on lithium batteries with a 2-year life expectancy and the fixed camera position prevents blind spotting caused by accidental or deliberate movement of cameras. This trademarked unit can be fixed to scaffolding, hording panels and buildings. Customised alarm solutions for bigger and more complex projects throughout the whole of the UK can be designed by Panthera Security Division and these can be mains powered or mains free. Whatever the project, Panthera will deliver and install a bespoke, networked solution to cover every corner of scaffold for full site protection. All solutions from Panthera are cost-effective, insurance company approved and supported 24/7, 365 days a year. To learn more about National Security Inspectorates Code of Practice and to mitigate the risk when specifying scaffold alarm systems, Panthera offers a CPD Certified Seminar that can be completed virtually or by a safe, socially distanced session at Panthera Group premises in Surry or on site at the customer’s location. More information can be found on www.pantheragroup.com/cpd-application. For more information on scaffold alarms visit the website: https://pantheragroup.com/scaffold-alarms/
CM0421034- Panthera Group-QP.indd 1
ULTIMATE PROTECTION, FULLY COMPATIBLE – JSP’S EVO®VISTA® HELMET AND FORCE™8 HALF MASK Compatibility in PPE is not only about products fitting correctly, but also working correctly when worn together. Some products that fit together are not necessarily compatible in terms of performance. To ensure products are suitable for use in combination, it is best to buy all PPE from the same manufacturer, who have developed the products to work together. JSP PPE is designed to be compatible across the range, offering complete above-the-neck solutions. The popular EVO®VISTA® helmet is fully compatible with other JSP PPE, such as the award-winning Force™8 PressToCheck™ respirator and Sonis® helmet mounted ear defender range. JSP’s Research and Development team were inspired by feedback received from users who regularly wear head and eye protection together. In addition to problems with compatibility, a common theme in the feedback was the amount of eyewear lost or damaged on site after being issued. EVO®VISTA® is an innovative, feature-rich helmet incorporating optical class 1 faceshield or overspectacle. The eyewear is fully integrated, allowing users to retract and deploy as needed, which helps to prevent traditional safety eyewear being lost or damaged, saving companies money, time, and worry, whilst also allowing prescription spectacles to be worn safely. The EVO®VISTA® helmet is manufactured in the UK for immediate delivery with option to brand. When combined with the Force™8 half mask you can rest assured you are getting the ultimate in head, eye, and respiratory protection with complete compatibility, plus the option to add Sonis® ear defenders for a 4-in-1 solution. Website: www.jspsafety.com
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27/01/2021 13:21:04
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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22 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
08.03.21 14:13
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SPECIALIST FAÇADE INSPECTIONS (SFI) Specialist Façade Inspections (SFI) is one of the UK’s leading external cladding consultants. Established in October 2019, the business has over 100 years of combined experience in the UK and European field of external cladding systems. Their consultants and technicians are relied upon by architects, surveyors and landlords to provide expert knowledge and impartial advice. Within this short time, the team of experts have completed over 200 inspections on existing buildings and delivered a range of consultancy services to all sectors, including industrial, commercial and residential, all to the highest standard. They’ve also had a 94% client retention in the first year of trading. Currently, they are conducting investigations and verification works for developers and building owners right across the UK, such as warehouses, factories, office blocks, residential/student accommodation, care homes, hotels, shopping complexes and airports. Offering a range of specialist services such as new build design assistance, intrusive inspection, façade compliance coordination and drone surveys, SFI always provide a first-class service tailored to individual client’s needs. If you are completing a new build, they can act as a third-party individual consultant to help with design and material advice to ensure your façade is compliant with building regulations and MHCLG guidance.
This service is not only suitable for new builds, but existing builds who wish to verify the safety of their cladding. We can complete a comprehensive report to determine the integrity of existing cladding and the suitability of the system, for the review of a competent third party to complete an EWS1 SFI’s newest service to be added to their portfolio is their drone/aerial inspections. Drone surveys (UAV surveys) have become an increasingly popular method of carrying out surveying projects, from domestic roofing surveys to full structural assessments. Capturing data can be quicker, safer and cheaper than traditional methods due to the versatility drone surveys offer your project. Drones are an excellent option for previously inaccessible or potentially hazardous areas, as they can easily collect data that would otherwise be almost impossible to gather, and they offer a safer alternative to working
Offering a range of specialist services such as new build design assistance, intrusive inspection, façade compliance coordination and drone surveys, SFI always provide a first-class service tailored to individual client’s needs.
SFI’s newest service to be added to their portfolio is their drone/aerial inspections. Drone surveys (UAV surveys) have become an increasingly popular method of carrying out surveying projects, from domestic roofing surveys to full structural assessments. Capturing data can be quicker, safer and cheaper than traditional methods due to the versatility drone surveys offer your project. at a height. They also save the use of inspection scaffolding which saves time and money; drone surveys take a fraction of the time on site and provide more detailed data. From bridge dilapidation reports to visual databases monitoring construction progress, SFI’s drones collect high quality visual stills and video using 4k footage and a 32x zoom, with the option of thermal imaging, ensuring that you have all possible information available to you. If any ongoing or potential problems are found during the drone surveys, SFI have an in-house specification team available to offer cost-effective solution programmes, so you don’t have to go elsewhere to finish the job; SFI can do everything for you in one place.
If you are undertaking a new build, worried about the safety of your existing building’s cladding, or need a high-rise roofing survey completed, or if you have any other façade needs, then get in touch with SFI today at 01495 687 366, or visit www.specialistfacadeinspectionsltd.co.uk
24 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
Straightforward, expert cladding consultancy services Specialist Façade Inspections (SFI) are one of the UK’s leading external cladding consultants. Our clients benefit from over 100 years of combined experience in the UK and European field of external cladding systems, and our consultants and technicians are relied upon by architects, surveyors and landlords to provide expert knowledge and impartial advice. Our professional in-house team allows us to provide a cost-effective service that informs the design specification of high-rise properties and commercial buildings.
How we can help
Why choose us
• EWS1 Certification
• Over 30 years’ experience in the field of external cladding systems.
• Cladding & Façade Inspections • New Build Assistance • Refurbishment & Re-cladding • Remedial works, costs & monitoring • Curtain walling checks • Façade condition reports • Pre & post tender advice • Drone UAV inspections
• Extensive knowledge of all UK and European Cladding products. • Surveyors, field and qualified Cladding Operatives. • Cost-effective, in-house team.
Need help or advice? For a free, no obligation conversation about your project, speak to us today
01495 687 366 hello@sfilimited.co.uk www.specialistfacadeinspectionsltd.co.uk
Interview
Q&A: ALAN GRANT, AGILITY3 – LEADING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN CONSTRUCTION Construction is one of the least-digitised industries in the UK, and this lack of digitalisation could be hampering construction companies in a very competitive marketplace. We speak with Alan Grant at Agility3, a leading solutions provider in the development of bespoke, high quality virtual 3D content and interactive 3D applications, who shares his thoughts on digital transformation in construction and how he believes we are now at a critical turning point for the industry. What does digital transformation look like for the construction industry and what challenges does it present? Digital transformation is, in essence, replacing old ways with new ways. It is utilising the technologies that are available, such as BIM, Digital Engineering, Big Data and 3D/4D visualisation, to improve operational processes, efficiencies and performance within construction. It is not a new concept by any means, but the construction industry as a whole has been slow to adopt new technologies. This is understandable and can be attributed to a number of common challenges. Firstly, an unclear definition and understanding of what digitalisation actually means. Lower margins and restricted R&D budgets, which reduces the investment available for new technology. A fear of and resistance to change. Fragmentation of the industry, with a typical construction
project involving large numbers of suppliers and subcontractors, making implementation of digital solutions across multiple companies and users complex. Silo working, which brings with it un-standardised processes and data, and can prohibit a collaborative approach and inability to train multiple users in new technology. Indeed, recent reports show that about 32% of firms are currently spending less than 3% of turnover on digital technologies. How can construction companies overcome these challenges? 3D and 4D modelling, simulation, AR, VR and immersive technologies are almost limitless. They offer so much more insight and knowledge to projects that a simple 2D format just can’t – being able to have a virtual walkthrough of a building before, during or after a project, is immensely powerful. It is a fascinating and exciting area that offers significant benefits to the construction industry, and one that I am deeply passionate about. In order to utilise it to its full potential, we need to see a cultural shift within construction companies. Getting people across the whole organisation to adopt a mindset, behaviour and approach change to realise the value it can bring. No easy task, but when you consider that research shows digital transformation can result in productivity gains of up to 15% and cost reductions of 6%, it is change that construction companies cannot afford not to make. For me, the key to achieving this is what I refer to as PPIT – People, Process, Information and Technology. You cannot enforce technology and process, without first bringing your people on board – it just won’t work and companies will fail to embrace the new digital technology. Through educating and explaining the technology and process, they can start to use it efficiently in standard work processes and witness the benefits for themselves. LEFT: Alan Grant
26 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
Some of the bigger names in the industry who are adopting these technologies are making significant gains. We are seeing an uplift in desire to embrace these new and emerging technologies and realise all the efficiency savings they bring. The transformation starts with the individuals and radiates out throughout the organisation. We need to educate that digitalisation is not just simply installing new IT solutions. It is as much about operational change as it is about technological change. It will fix pain points, enable collaboration in real-time, reskill teams and ultimately unlock increased value and performance, whilst significantly reducing time and costs. Only by understanding this can the entire workforce, from the C-suite to the frontline, truly harness the power of digital transformation. What are the benefits that it brings? The benefits of adopting digitalisation are vast. From increased business and employee productivity, improved health and safety rates, business growth and new wins, closer collaboration with realtime feedback, improved training, through to reduced operating costs. Why do you feel we are now at a critical turning point? This isn’t something that is going to go away. It isn’t some sci-fi vision of the future. This is happening now and it is a case of construction companies coming on board or being left behind in this competitive market place. Some of the bigger names in the industry who are adopting these technologies are making significant gains. We are seeing an uplift in desire to embrace these new and emerging technologies and realise all the efficiency savings they bring. At the start of my career, I worked for one of the UK’s leading contractors and experienced first-hand the operational difficulties and inefficiencies they had due to out of date processes, as well as the alarmingly high health and safety and
SOMETIMES ITS GOOD TO GLOSS OVER THINGS Bond It, which ranks as one of the UK’s fastest growing manufacturers of sealants, adhesives, fillers, waterproofing compounds and other building chemicals has recently launched a new High Gloss Block Sealer for enhancing and protecting concrete paving. To compliment the Drive Alive range, Bond It have now developed a ready-to-use, high gloss, solvent based sealer to provide a clear, glossy protection barrier against oil staining and weed growth. Suitable for use on paving, blocks and patios, the sealer is hard wearing and resistant to chipping. It boasts long lasting weather resistance, even against UV, water and ice and once cured enahances the colour of the substrate, offering a glossy enriched finish.
accident rates. Through my passion for visualisation technology, I worked with them to develop a number of apps to help improve efficiencies. These included virtual simulations of any accident, to improve training and prevent future health and safety risks, as well as 3D modelling to predict accurate excavations volumes. The result? Technology created a process which provided savings of £5 million and significantly reduced health and safety incidents.
the next 5 years. The 4D functionality allowed full view of the construction activities that would take place on any one day, giving clear visibility and significantly improving stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
This belief and passion in what technology can do for the industry, is what brought me to Agility3. The team here create bespoke interactive 3D and 4D visualisation applications, helping clients to visualise proposed complex plans in a virtual world. These applications allow for an ease of understanding, realisation of the impact on surrounding areas, and the ability to watch the progress of development throughout a project’s lifecycle.
The challenges construction faces are real, but they can be overcome. With what we at Agility3 offer, as well as others, I predict
The impact that these technologies offers to the construction industry is truly significant. What does the future hold?
The product also stabilises and reduces weed growth between sand joints meaning less interim maintenance is required. Supplied in 5L tins, High Gloss Block Sealer is a simple application by brush, roller or squeegee, it is quick curing and can be applied all year round. Its deep penetrating properties provide a long lasting protective finish for up to 2 years and will maintain the performance life of the substrate. For more information on Bond It contact our Sales Team on 01422 315300 or visit www.bonditgroup.com
that instead of a resistance to change we will start to witness an increased demand for these technologies. The industry is only going in one direction – digital. It offers abundant opportunity for the construction industry to evolve and grow and the time for digital transformation within construction is now. If you’d like to learn more about how Agility3 can develop interactive visualisation applications to support your development project, please get in touch at info@agility3.co.uk or call on (+44) 01438 488066.
A recent project we worked on here at Agility3, saw us developing a bespoke 4D visualisation application for an industry leader in the delivery of major rail and highway infrastructure projects. The application helped their prospective customer to understand and visualise the proposed plans for the construction over
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Company News
BAM SELLS SUBSIDIARY BAM SWISS TO IMPLENIA Royal BAM Group nv has reached agreement to sell the shares of BAM Swiss AG (a subsidiary of BAM Deutschland AG) to Implenia AG. It is anticipated the transaction will close in May. Financial details of the transaction are not disclosed. BAM Swiss is established in 2011. The company employs approximately 45 people, with annual revenues of approximately €45 million. Current projects include the new Aarau cantonal hospital ‘Dreiklang’, which is being delivered in joint venture with Implenia.
Ruud Joosten, CEO Royal BAM Group: ‘With this transaction BAM is taking a step forward in line with our new strategy ‘Building a sustainable tomorrow’. “Our strategy is to focus on growth markets in the Netherlands, United Kingdom and Ireland, where we have scale and competitive advantage. “In other markets we will manage our subsidiaries for value. With Implenia, we have identified a trusted partner who will support the future development of BAM Swiss.’
André Wyss, CEO Implenia: ‘With this transaction Implenia strengthens its market presence and becomes a leading player in healthcare construction in Switzerland, which is a key driver in real estate with a large growth potential. “The acquisition is in line with our strategy and the goal of Implenia’s Buildings Division to increase its market share as a total contractor for complex large-scale projects. The Division’s Consulting unit will ensure early access to clients and collaborative involvement of all stakeholders in the preconstruction phase.’
WILLMOTT DIXON BECOMES THE FIRST CONTRACTOR TO ACHIEVE LEVEL 3 OF THE CARBON TRUST’S SUPPLY CHAIN STANDARD Willmott Dixon is the first contractor - and one of only three companies globally - to achieve Level 3 of the Carbon Trust’s industry leading Supply Chain Standard. Achieving a score of 82%, it builds on the company’s knowledge and skills gained through the award of the Carbon Trust’s two previous standards, with this version recognising organisations that can demonstrate they are measuring, managing and reducing carbon emissions from their supply chains. To achieve Level 3, Willmott Dixon worked closely with two of its category A supply chain partners; TJL Plastering and McDermotts Building & Civil Engineering. Together, they created carbon management plans which included measures to reduce fuel use on site, reduce office energy use and create a more sustainable approach to transport. Both partners reported significant carbon and cost savings between 10-20%. Willmott Dixon also examined the embodied carbon of the materials purchased on their projects, with a particular focus on concrete, developing carbon reduction strategies as a result.
Achieving Level 3 builds on six years of work, with Willmott Dixon achieving Level 1 of the Standard in 2015, where initial investigations showed that Willmott Dixon’s supply chain emissions (scope 3) are 99 times greater than what they emit in their own operations (scopes 1 and 2). In 2018, Willmott Dixon achieved Level 2, after helping three high-impact supply chain partners baseline, monitor and reduce their footprint, with McDermotts achieving ISO50001 as a result. The criteria for Level 3 also required Willmott Dixon to expand the approach developed during Level 2 and to engage with more of its supply chain. They worked with three further groundworks companies, helping them baseline their carbon footprint. Marta Iglesias, associate director, The Carbon Trust, said: “Willmott Dixon is the first company in their sector to be certified to Level 3 of the Supply Chain Standard. This achievement is a reflection of their robust strategies and plans for climate action in their supply chain, and their successful engagement with suppliers. We hope this is a step towards extending their positive impact and building a net zero future.”
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Julia Barrett, chief sustainability officer, Willmott Dixon, said: “We are delighted to have met the criteria for the award of the prestigious Carbon Trust Supply Chain Standard at Level 3. Achieving this accreditation is key to meeting the objectives of our ambitious ‘Now or Never’ 2030 Sustainability Strategy, where we have set some of the toughest science-based targets in the industry.
Through our strategy, we will continue our work to reduce our scope 3 emissions, this is driven by our ambitious target to achieve a net zero carbon supply chain and deliver net zero embodied carbon on our projects by 2040. Further to its collaboration with the Carbon Trust, Willmott Dixon is also working closely with the Climate Action Group, part of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. Together the organisations are developing a carbon footprint tool to help the industry’s shared supply chain better understand their own carbon emissions and take steps to reduce it.
Company News QUARTET OF PROMOTIONS FOR LEADING GEOSPATIAL FIRM
Colin Simpson
Trevor Moore
Paraic Quirke
Paul Kearney
One of the UK and Ireland’s leading land surveying companies has made a quartet of senior promotions across the business. Murphy Geospatial, which has offices in six countries across Europe, has promoted Paraic Quirke, Paul Kearney, Colin Simpson and Trevor Moore into associate director positions. Niall Murphy, director of Murphy Geospatial, said: “These individuals have demonstrated great commitment throughout their years with the company and are contributing factors in the company’s success and growth. “Their skills and wealth of experiences will support and bring Murphy Geospatial closer to achieving our vision of being first-choice partner for geospatial certainty. Our team is hugely important to us and we encourage all employees to be ambitious, helping them gain the skills to thrive personally and professionally. “As a business we offer a range of services across the construction lifecycle, and support and develop our people to explore their career path and gain a breadth of experience and skills across our business. We actively create an open and supportive environment that inspires
and empowers people to grow – and these promotions are an example of that.” Colin Simpson has spent more than a decade at Murphy Geospatial while Trevor Moore joined the firm in 2012 in a head of infrastructure role and now focuses on geospatial business development. Paraic Quirke has worked at the firm since 2017, managing the innovation and R&D department from its Kilcullen office in Ireland and Paul Kearney has over four years’ experience at the firm.
Niall added: “Developing our people is of huge importance to us and we are delighted to see Paraic, Paul, Colin and Trevor take up their new roles within the business and look forward to their involvement in driving our operation forward.” Murphy Geospatial employs around 300 people across offices in six countries and works with its clients to capture, collate, verify and govern geospatial data, allowing them to reduce risk and make strategic decisions with confidence.
CALEDONIA WATER ALLIANCE SECURES WATER AND WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRACTS WITH SCOTTISH WATER Caledonia Water Alliance (CWA), a Morrison Utility Services (MUS) and AECOM joint venture, has secured a sixyear extension (2021–2027) to its water infrastructure contract with Scottish Water. In addition, Scottish Water has appointed CWA to expand its scope of services to include the delivery of all wastewater infrastructure work for Scotland for the same period. Following confirmation of the new agreements, from 2021-2027 CWA will deliver an estimated £600m of water and wastewater infrastructure works in Scotland on behalf of Scottish Water.
Peter Carolan, Executive Director, Morrison Utility Services and CWA JV Board member, comments: “We are delighted to have secured these agreements with Scottish Water. Since 2015 we have delivered over £380 million of water network interventions including capital maintenance, water quality, network enhancements and improvements in overall resilience of Scottish Water’s water supply network all aimed at achieving world class customer service for our client.” David Sanderson, Scottish Water Account Director, Morrison Utility Services, comments: “This reappointment and expansion of our scope reflects CWA’s excellent work and collaboration with Scottish Water over the past six years. This provides an excellent platform to drive further innovation and efficiency.” Chris Gray, AECOM Head of Water for Europe and CWA JV Board member said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for AECOM and Morrison Utility Services to further improve our integration over the next six years, developing our water and wastewater teams in Scotland, driving efficiency,
innovation and Net Zero Carbon with Scottish Water, whilst creating jobs for local apprentices and engineers - leaving a lasting legacy for Scotland.” CWA was first appointed to support the delivery of the water infrastructure element of Scottish Water’s future Quality & Standards IV (Q&S IV) Capital Investment Programme for the regulatory period for the regulatory period 2015 to 2021. Since 2015, the scope of work delivered on behalf of Scottish Water has included programme management and the design and delivery of essential water network infrastructure works across the whole of Scotland including new assets, renewals, modifications, maintenance and refurbishment of water networks and pumping stations. Moving forward into SR21 CWA will also deliver wastewater infrastructure works including sewer flooding, sewer networks/ overflows, pipe bridges and wastewater pumping stations.
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Feature
RETENTION IN CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS – FIVE TOP TIPS FOR RECOVERY Most construction contracts use retention, a percentage, often 5%, of the gross value due to the contractor, which is withheld by the paying party to ensure that the contracted works are completed to the specified requirements. This retention is typically released in two stages upon achievement of certain ‘trigger events’; often the first stage is released on practical completion and the remaining half released on the making good of the defects in the works at the expiry of the rectification period. Unfortunately, retention is a welldocumented source of problems in the construction industry, with retention often not released on time or, in some cases, not at all. With the effects of Covid-19 and the current climate a difficult one for many businesses, unduly withheld retention only adds to the difficulty, leaving contractors and subcontractors at a higher risk of cash flow problems and even insolvency.
contract to ensure the retention is claimed on this date. The recovery of retention is easier to manage where you have a defined process and timescale, which in turn leads to improved cash flow. 3. Records, Records, Records It is crucial to keep good records in the construction industry for a multitude of reasons. Where retention is concerned it is especially important to keep records that relate to the ‘trigger events’ to prove that they have been achieved. Examples
Simon Dunkling out when the retention is due to be paid, together with further clauses allowing for interest on late payment. If you have not been paid, simply highlighting that your retention is due with cross reference to the contract terms can result in a swift payment.
Below are Arbicon’ s five top tips for recovering retention:
Ensure you are satisfied with the retention provisions before you commit to the contract and avoid common pitfalls including: • Excessively long defect liability periods • Unduly high percentages being withheld; and • Prohibited illegal clauses such as those which make payment conditional upon performance under another contract or on a paid-when-paid basis
1. Check your contract terms Your construction contract should contain clear and unambiguous terms setting
2. Monitor when the retention is due Record the date when your retention will be due and monitor progress of the
• If the first half of retention is due on Practical Completion and the second half is due 12 months later, ensure you have a practical completion certificate documenting when the work was completed. • If the retention is due for release after making good, a specified list of defects produce contemporaneous evidence by way of report, photographs, emails and letters that proves the work has been undertaken. By collating this evidence, you can demonstrate you have fulfilled your contractual obligations and in turn demonstrate your entitlement to be paid, making recovery easier. 4. Follow the contractual process Now that you have your dates correct and evidence of entitlement, you should check your contract for the process that must be followed to request and release your retention. It is not uncommon for subcontractors and contractors to chase their retention by only issuing a letter asking for its release, yet the contract often stipulates they need to follow a specific process such as issuing an application for payment. If you do not follow the correct process, the sum is unlikely to be released. 5. Get help demanding payment Recovering unpaid retention can be challenging, time consuming and burdensome. Consulting and utilising the services of a third party such as Arbicon can be of great assistance. Arbicon know how to challenge parties who are unfairly refusing to release retentions and frequently assist our Clients in the recovery of retention using a combination of contractual expertise, debt recovery techniques, and referring payment disputes to adjudication to obtain a quick decision in favour of our Clients. If you would like advice on recovering your retention, please contact Arbicon on 01733 233 737 or visit www.arbicon.co.uk.
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With advanced designs and high-tech fabrics that are windproof and water-repellent, all the garments have durable, colour-fast protection that will last for wash after wash, retaining shape and comfort throughout the life of the garments. Added to which, Snickers Workwear Hi Vis garments can be custom-profiled to ensure ‘stand out’ coverage for your corporate brand. Getting more information on the Snickers Workwear range of ProtecWork and Snickers Workwear Hi-Vis protective wear is easy. You call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk and download a digital catalogue; or you can email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk
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Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 31
12/04/2021 09:44:08
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR We design and manufacture world class respiratory protection
Switchboard +44 330 808 8935 Email ukhelpdesk@srsafety.com
Construction dust
Many building tradesman may be exposed to construction dust in a construction environment. Anyone who inhales construction dust should be aware of the health risks this may cause. Regular inhalation, of even small quantities of construction dust, can damage the lungs and respiratory airways over the course of time. Some diseases can develop quite quickly, but in many cases, it can take 10 to 30 years before symptoms become apparent. Unfortunately, by the time the problem is noticed, irreparable damage is often done, and it can be difficult or impossible to treat.
What is construction dust?
Construction dust is a broad term, there are many different types of dust one may be exposed to in a construction environment. The largest particles, which are visible, are captured by the body’s natural defences, and remain, in most cases in the nose, mouth and throat. The small particles, which are invisible to the human eye, are the most dangerous, and can cause scarring of the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
Examples of construction dust:
Silica dust arises during work with materials containing silica, such as concrete, mortar and sandstone. Wood dust arises during work with softwood, hardwood and woodbased materials such as MDF and plywood. Other types of dust arise during work with plaster, glass wool, mineral wool, marble, etc.
Health risks:
Lung damage such as silicosis, lung cancer, asthma or chronic
32 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and includes diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Construction dust can also cause allergies.
Respiratory protection
When all other measures have been taken to reduce dangerous exposure levels, respiratory protection equipment is the last, but an important, means of preventing hazardous air contamination entering the body, via the airways. The choice of respiratory protection depends, amongst other factors, on the type of dust present, its WEL (Workplace Exposure Limit), and the nature of the work, i.e. the degree of physical exertion and the length of exposure. Facial hair, such as beards, moustaches and sideburns, reduce the level of protection offered by tight-fitting respirators, and create a need for Powered Air Respiratory Protection to ensure adequate levels of contaminant reduction.
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Company News
AMEY CONSULTING WINS PLACE ON TFGM PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FRAMEWORK Amey Consulting has won a place on Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) £88m Professional Services Framework. Spanning a three-year term, the engineering consultancy has proposed several exciting innovations to drive performance improvement across transport in the North West. Among the proposals is utilising Quartz, Amey Consulting’s award-winning data science application, currently used by Network Rail. Quartz uses to-the-second train movement data to understand station performance, identify the causes of delays, and devise targeted actions to drive efficiency. Furthermore, Amey Consulting wants to harness green technology, including the use of hybrid technology to help TfGM reduce CO2 emissions, as well as investing in digital connectivity to provide passengers with electronic ticketing systems for seamless journeys. Today’s announcement also means Amey Consulting will now invest further in attracting and developing new talent in the North West. Amey Consulting will target local graduates through its award-winning Railway Engineering degree apprenticeship scheme and partner with social enterprises to hire ex-armed forces personnel. This builds upon Amey Consulting’s existing commitment to Greater Manchester, as the current operators and maintainers of Manchester Metrolink, with Keolis, and as having also been appointed to TfGM’s 2016 framework.
AMEY PLEDGES TO CONTINUE DRIVE FOR POSITIVE IMPACT IN SOCIAL VALUE REPORT Leading public service provider, Amey, has today released its 2020 Social Value Report which reveals its progress in delivering against social value initiatives, along with its ambitions for the year ahead. Report highlights include Amey becoming a real living wage employer, purchasing 100% renewable energy and spending £4.7m with the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. Whilst carrying out the critical services the country relies on every day, Amey has recognised the opportunity to have a positive impact on the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the communities in which it operates. By embedding social value practices across the business, Amey is delivering real change in local communities and helping Britain build back better. Amanda Fisher, Amey Chief Executive, commented, “After launching our Social Value Plan early last year, COVID-19 has highlighted the important role we play at the heart of our communities. Our teams have kept essential services running and demonstrated their personal pride in public service on a daily basis. I’m delighted that our 2020 Social Value Report tells the story of our increased investment and commitment to our employees. “Looking beyond Amey, we recognise that COVID-19 has hit the least privileged hardest. As a business our ambition is to contribute to the most vulnerable in our society. So we will be backing young people through the government’s Kickstart programme, as well as investing in apprentices to create our future industry leaders. We will continue to support small business and local enterprises through our supply chain - creating jobs and boosting new skills. And we will provide opportunities to the
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Our aim is to leave communities in a better place than when we arrived, and as an organisation that delivers public services across the UK, it is our role and our commitment to work with and empower our employees, our suppliers, our customers, and our wider networks to genuinely be a force for positive change and longterm benefit to society. long-term unemployed, military veterans and prison leavers. “This is my commitment for 2021 and beyond because the decisions we make today will have an impact on the years to come as the effects of the pandemic continue.” Emily Davies, Head of Social Impact, commented, “Our aim is to leave communities in a better place than when we arrived, and as an organisation that delivers public services across the UK, it is our role and our commitment to work with and empower our employees, our suppliers, our customers, and our wider networks to genuinely be a force for positive change and long-term benefit to society. “We can’t underestimate the growth in inequality that the pandemic has laid bare and the damaging impact it will have. “Our focus in the coming year will continue to be based on partnership, working with local experts and organisation to reach out and provide development and employment opportunities across our communities. “We also recognise that climate change is no longer the concern of the few and this year we achieved milestones that saw 100% procurement of renewable energy however we also recognise that beyond our own emissions our real commitment for change is through ensuring net zero principles sit within the design and maintenance of the assets we manage – from schools, to prisons, to roads and rail.” Amey’s 2020 Social Value Report provides updates against the roadmap for delivering positive social impact set out in Amey’s Social Value Plan. The plan sets out 12 priorities under four key pillars; investing in our people, supporting our suppliers, reducing our carbon footprint and transforming local communities. To read the full 2020 Social Value report, please visit: https://www.amey.co.uk/ social-value/social-value-report-2020/ To read Amey’s Social Value plan, please visit: https://www.amey.co.uk/social-value/
Company News £13M ORDER BOOK PROVIDES STRONG START TO MILESTONE YEAR A family-owned construction company has made a strong start to its golden jubilee year with a £2.5m contract to build an extension at a Cheshire school, taking its order book to over £13m. MC Construction, which is based in Salford, has begun work on the scheme at Park Lane Special School in Macclesfield. The contract has been awarded by Cheshire East Council, procured through the North West Construction Hub framework. It follows a project completed at the school which saw MC Construction build an emergency temporary mobile classroom block for the new pupil intake last September. The latest Park Lane project means the company has secured more than £5.5m of education schemes for Cheshire East Council in the past couple of years. These include one at Elworth Church of England Primary School in Sandbach, where MC Construction is building an extension to house four classrooms,
offices, toilets and other facilities in a £1.5m scheme. The project also includes the creation of sports pitches and courts and a forest school area with trail paths. Founded in 1971 by Charles Lowe and John Purcell, MC Construction has entered its milestone year with a strong order book, having secured contracts totalling more than £13m across the education, public sector, healthcare, leisure, heritage and industrial sectors. The company is extending and refurbishing a two-storey building at Park Lane School alongside associated external works to form a new teaching block. Park Lane School provides education for children with severe learning difficulties, complex needs and autism. The development will enable the school to increase pupil numbers from 82 to 122, in line with the council’s strategy of increasing specialist provision in the Macclesfield area. David Lowe, managing director of MC Construction and the son of co-founder
Charles Lowe, said: “We are delighted to be working with Cheshire East Council once again and are immensely proud to be involved in this and other vital education projects in the area. The works will significantly boost educational provision in the borough. Improving the facilities and teaching environment at Park Lane School will enhance the outstanding resources that it already provides for its pupils. “The school remains fully operational during the project, which has been carefully planned to minimise disruption, with an emphasis on ensuring the children feel safe and enjoy the construction works. Park Lane School and Elworth have welcomed us with open arms as we work together to ensure the construction works are delivered safely. With a strong pipeline of contracts across a number of sectors, we have begun our 50th year in business in great shape and look forward to the future with optimism.”
ADSA LAUNCHES LANDMARK APPRENTICESHIP A landmark apprenticeship scheme to bridge a skills gap and ensure quality standards within the automatic door industry has been launched this month (March) by the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA). The Powered Pedestrian Door Technician Apprenticeship realises more than five years hard work – from initial idea, active partnership working and Government green light, to devising structure and content and commissioning a suitable training provider. ADSA Managing Director Ken Price said that this was “a landmark moment” for the industry which will serve it for years to come – delivering professional entry level training and qualification, underpinned a consistent approach to safety and standards. “Our members clearly identified that there was a skills shortage for entry level technicians in our industry. Alongside this, there was a need for a consistent approach to ensure that those entering the profession were able attain a high-quality standard of knowledge in theory and practice,” he said. The two-year level two apprenticeship comprises of 23 modules: six electrical and mechanical engineering, the remainder industry specific. Each module has been selected to ensure that all apprentices attain essential core skills. Level two Maths and English will also be provided if the apprentice does not already hold these qualifications.
Details of the apprenticeship can now be found on the South Staffordshire College website https://www.southstaffs.ac.uk/southstaffordshire-college-official-apprenticeship-training-provider-forautomatic-door-suppliers-association/
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Latest News
NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH NATIONAL CHARITY HELPS VETERANS AND SERVICE LEAVERS BUILD A NEW FUTURE AT SHERFORD A new partnership has been forged between City College Plymouth and Building Heroes, to deliver construction skills courses at a specialist training centre at Sherford, to help service leavers and veterans retrain, gain valuable skills, and access new careers in an industry crying out for new talent. Building Heroes is a national charity that supports veterans, service leavers and direct family members, offering practical skills courses to those interested in a career in construction. Delivering accredited courses across the UK, its first course with Sherford Skills Training Scheme took place last year and was the first Building Heroes course to be conducted on a live construction site and not in a purely educational setting. A full programme of nine courses is planned across the current and next academic years, with the first underway this month. Currently, 12
BUILDER RESTORES WW1 MEMORIAL TO FORMER GLORY 100 YEARS ON The easing of lockdown came right on time for the official rededication of a restored World War One Memorial in the Midlands - exactly 100 years after it was first unveiled. It ensured the perfect finale to a painstaking two and a half year quest by Leicestershire builder and developer Adrian Burr to renovate the desecrated and damaged monument in time for its centenary. Burr, chairman of award-winning developers Springbourne Homes in Market Bosworth, discovered the
36 Construction UK Magazine - April 2021
learners – a combination of military personnel in a resettlement period and unemployed veterans – are onsite and taking part in the fully-funded Building Heroes construction skills course, with the aim of seeking future careers in construction. During each five-week programme, learners will be tutored by education partner City College Plymouth, with hands-on tuition in various areas of construction and safety, resulting in Level 1 Construction Skills, and Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment qualifications. Trainees also take the fully-funded Construction Skills Certification Scheme test to get their CSCS Card, necessary to work in any construction environment. They will also benefit from mentoring and gain insights into the industry from Sherford’s housebuilders and contractors, and offered support in finding employment through regular networking events.
overgrown and abandoned memorial shortly after acquiring the site for his current Hornsey Rise development in Wellsborough, Leicestershire. He explained: “It was covered in brambles and weeds, its plaque had been stolen and it was in a very sorry state. “Clearly it was a monument but it wasn’t until I launched a nationwide appeal for information that I finally discovered its full story and significance.” That appeal went out in November 2018 and proved a resounding success. The archives at a London Library revealed that the Memorial had been erected in 1921 in memory of 380 members of the NATSOPA printers union who were killed in WW1 between 1914-1918. Old photographs showed it had been the centre piece of a Remembrance Garden at the former NATSOPA Memorial Care Home which had once stood on the Wellsborough site.
Latest News The courses will take place at Sherford in its revolutionary £370,000 Skills Training Centre, which was developed to address the region’s skills shortage. It was funded by the Sherford Consortium – a partnership between Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Partnerships – and opened its doors in 2018. The centre has supported the training and development of hundreds of apprentices and armed service leavers, helped create over 280 jobs, and enabled users to retrain and upskill across trades. Steven Ricketts, Sherford Skills Training Scheme Coordinator, said, “This new partnership will have a positive impact on the lives of our learners, as well as the local construction industry. More than half of those we teach are former members of the armed forces, and it is an honour to help them gain new skills and pursue an exciting new career path.
Navy and still hosts Europe’s largest naval base. “We are also excited to be delivering on a live construction site, with all the potential employment opportunities and experience that can offer. The success of this delivery model is something we plan to replicate in other areas of the country in the future.” Johnny Mercer MP, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, made a visit to Sherford to meet the first intake of learners taking part in the Building Heroes course back in September 2020. He said, “We have a proud military past and large population of service personnel in Plymouth, which makes it especially vital for us to do all we can to support and provide for our veterans.
“We now have two major flagship programmes on offer – Building Heroes and CITB Onsite Experience – and the bigger picture is that, by providing this training, we will boost employment opportunities and economic growth.”
“The work of the team at Sherford and Building Heroes shows what collaboration and commitment can achieve. This course is a fantastic example of leaders in construction, education and the charitable sector uniting in the best interests of our veteran community – and I hope to see more of this across the UK.”
Karen Jefford, Chief Operations Officer of Building Heroes, said: “We are thrilled to be working with skilled staff at City College Plymouth and Sherford Skills Training Scheme to deliver this programme in Plymouth. It makes perfect sense for our charity to provide support in a city that is synonymous with the Royal
Course dates are scheduled for March, May, June, September, November 2021, and February, April, May and July 2022. Anyone interested in finding out more can contact sricketts@ cityplym.ac.uk or register online at sherford.org/working-at-sherford/ skills-training-scheme/
The work of the team at Sherford and Building Heroes shows what collaboration and commitment can achieve. This course is a fantastic example of leaders in construction, education and the charitable sector uniting in the best interests of our veteran community – and I hope to see more of this across the UK. to the restoration project, also attended alongside local historian Nigel Palmer from the Market Bosworth Society. Unite union chief Burke said: “It is wonderful to see this memorial restored and resplendent again so we can once again commemorate the sacrifice of the NATSOPA print workers who sadly lost their lives in the first world war.”
A book charting the history of the NATSOPA union also provided all the names of the 380 victims. Burr immediately commissioned the renovation and relocation of the imposing granite relic into a new Peace Garden at Hornsey Rise and held an uplifting rededication ceremony on Monday March 29, fittingly on the centenary of the opening of the old Memorial Home. He added: “We desperately wanted to celebrate the Memorial’s restoration and relocation on its centenary but the Covid restrictions had us really sweating over whether the timing would be right. It turned out to be perfect and I’m so happy and
relieved that we managed to make it happen exactly 100 years after it was first unveiled. At Springbourne Homes we always strive to do the right thing which is why we’re so pleased to have been able to safeguard an important part of the history and heritage of our Hornsey Rise site.” BBC TV filmed the rededication ceremony which included VIP guests Tony Burke, Assistant General Secretary of the Unite Union, which absorbed Natsopa, David Humberston from the At Risk War Memorials Project and Valerie Jacques of the Western Front Association. Ann Field, from London’s Marx Memorial Library, whose research was so valuable
Humberston said: “Far too often we hear of memorials being lost forever and far too rarely do we hear of companies or individuals investing both time and money to preserve the history of a Memorial and the memory of the men it commemorates. “The role of Adrian Burr and his company Springbourne Homes in both reconstructing and researching this NATSOPA Memorial is therefore exceptional and worthy of the highest praise.” Burr has even acted to ensure the full history of the Memorial, the NATSOPA Care Home and the Hornsey Rise site is now accessible to all via a QR code situated in the Peace Garden.
Construction UK Magazine - April 2021 37
Machinery Feature
DEMAND FOR USED MACHINERY: THE UPWARD TREND CONTINUES As many industries continue their journeys back from a challenging 2020, global demand for used equipment continues to increase. Many businesses remain wary of making big investments in new machinery, while supply chain issues have hit delivery levels for new equipment. All told, it makes the market for used heavy equipment a place of exciting opportunities for both buyers and sellers, explains Karl Werner, President International at Ritchie Bros.
supply chain issues due to the pandemic. Others reduced production volumes in 2020 to protect employees during lockdown, and this has also impacted new machine deliveries. “Longer waiting times for new equipment are fueling the demand for used machinery, which is available immediately. All these factors combined have created a perfect storm that’s driving the strong demand for used heavy equipment, resulting in good price-performance for sellers,” continued Werner.
Global asset management and disposition company Ritchie Bros. saw sales in most categories of used machinery perform above expectations in 2020. While the construction industry was unquestionably hit hard by the pandemic, the slowdown has not been universal. In many countries, infrastructure projects have seen construction work back at pre-pandemic levels. At the same time, many sectors such as agriculture, forestry and mining have increasingly turned to used equipment to meet their current machinery needs.
EARLY DEMAND INDICATORS OF 2021
“We’ve seen tremendous global demand for used machinery,” says Karl Werner, President International, at Ritchie Bros. “There’s still a lot of work going on, and credit is still available. In times of uncertainty, businesses tend to buy used machinery rather than new equipment to avoid big financial commitments.” This shift to used machinery purchases has coincided with several OEMs reporting
For many, bigger equipment auctions early in the year are indicative of the state of the market. High demand was perfectly demonstrated at Ritchie Bros.’ most recent auction in Orlando, Florida, the company’s biggest auction of the year. In total, more than 12,000 items were sold for over US$191 million during the six-day event in mid-February. Strong pricing across every asset category was seen, confirming the positive trend Ritchie Bros. is seeing. Truck tractors, skid steers and backhoe loaders saw a particularly strong price performance, followed closely by wheel loaders, aerial equipment and dozers. Participation in the Orlando auction also reached record highs – attracting more than 22,700 online bidders from over 80 countries - 25% more than the same auction in 2020. In Europe, Ritchie Bros. is also seeing a strong appetite for used machinery. At a recent auction in Moerdijk, The
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Netherlands, bidder registrations were up 19% compared to last year. With more than 2,580 online participants from 92 countries, the auction recorded the highest number of bidders in five years. Around 80% of the machinery was sold to bidders outside of The Netherlands, at strong prices: boom lifts, crawler tractors, hydraulic excavators, scissor lifts, and wheel loaders, on average, fetched 5% above the auction price of the Moerdijk event last November. “Shifting to online-only bidding has allowed us to attract new types of customers to our marketplace,” says Karl Werner, noting that Ritchie Bros. has seen a rise in end-user participation in auctions, people such as construction equipment owner/operators, who in the past did not represent a large portion of participants at ‘live’ auctions.
Newer services, such as our Ritchie Bros.’ online Timed Auction system are making used equipment auctions more accessible, especially for smaller and medium-sized businesses. The Timed Auctions are intuitive and there’s more time to place bids continues Karl. SHIFT ONLINE ACCELERATED The Covid-pandemic has accelerated trends that were already well underway,
People On The Move
EXPERIENCED SITE MANAGER DAVID NATUSCH APPOINTED PROJECT DIRECTOR AT CALMA GROUP Experienced site and project manager David Natusch has been appointed project director at leading Scottish development company Calma Group. With a wealth of construction management experience as well as from running his own project management consultancy, Staunch Projects, since 1999, he joined Glasgowbased Calma Group last year. Working as a construction project manager over the past nine months, David has overseen several multi-million pound new developments. Now his responsibility will extend across the whole group, encompassing sites in London, the South East and Scotland, reporting to managing director Andrew Lafferty, who founded the business nearly 10 years ago from a practical trade background. This will include overseeing teams for new build, strip out, refurbishments and refits for clients all over Scotland, the UK and Europe on commercial, hospitality, healthcare and high-end residential projects. Current projects include the prestigious new-build, five-star Windsor Fairmont Hotel; a 100-bed care home refit and
including online bidding. In 2020, Ritchie Bros. saw website traffic increase by 35%, while bidder registrations were up by 71%. More than 470,000 new users downloaded the Ritchie Bros. mobile app, which is an increase of 78% compared to 2019. Throughout 2020, customers carried out more than 24 million equipment searches and viewed 30 million items in Ritchie Bros.’ mobile app. Today, mobile app users represent approximately 30% of the customers of rbauction.com. According to Mr. Werner, this shift to online transactions not only widens the market for equipment buyers and sellers, it also creates new data insight opportunities.
extension in North London as well as heritage refurbishment projects in Scotland. Originally founded in 2012 as a family-run business, A.L. Interiors, the Calma Group, which rebranded in 2018, now employs more than 60 staff. Recent projects have included a flagship new gym in London’s Chelsea district for Gymbox and refits for global hotel chains, such as Holiday Inn and Premier Inn. MD Andrew Lafferty said, “We’re looking forward to David’s new role, which will be a key part of our ongoing expansion as we continue to focus on high-quality construction projects, with a high degree of client care.” A former captain in the Royal Welch Fusiliers and Merchant Navy master, David Natusch began his career in super yacht construction, surveying and project management. This included establishing his own surveying consultancy, a tech start-up utilising innovative methods and techniques for geospatial analysis to identify potential locations for renewable energy initiatives. “I’m really looking forward to this new role,” he said.
Rouse Services, Ritchie Bros. is on track to making this kind of tailored insight a reality for its global customer base. “This is a really exciting time in the industry,” Karl concludes. “Although the global pandemic has caused instabilities across all sectors, it has forced us to adapt the way we do business and accelerated remote working and online asset disposition. We don’t see this subsiding when restrictions are lifted. The future will most likely be a hybrid model giving our buyer and sellers access to a wider global market.”
Throughout my career I have always striven to achieve objectives in the most efficient manner possible. I enjoy developing the skills of those around me, to achieve the same efficient practice whilst maintaining the quality required. Karl Werner, President International has spent the last 25 years working at Ritchie Bros. During this time, he has worked closely with customers and has helped drive value across the organization. As of March 31st, 2021, Karl will be transitioning out of the company to pursue personal interests. As a result of Mr. Werner’s departure, Kari Taylor, President, North America Sales, will take on the newly created position of Chief Revenue Officer to focus on driving sales growth globally.
“Data is the new oil,” says Karl. “It’s becoming more and more valuable and obtainable every day. Not only does it help Ritchie Bros. but it also allows us to help our customers. We have a lot of data on used machinery transactions – we sell more machinery than any other company in the world – we can gather and present data to help our customers run their businesses more efficiently.” This sort of market insight opens new possibilities for equipment owners. They’ll be able to understand when the best time to sell or buy an asset is – depending on the machine type, hour usage, machine age and more. With the acquisition of data firm
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Project News KIER HANDS OVER TWO KENT SCHOOLS IN TIME TO WELCOME STUDENTS BACK AFTER LOCKDOWN Kier, a construction and infrastructure services company, has handed over two Kent-based schools. Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School and Hartsdown Academy were handed back to client, Department for Education, in time to welcome student back after the lockdown. Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School is a 1,100-pupil capacity school, which provides 7,500m² of teaching space across a range of traditional classrooms and learning areas with specialist areas for art, science and technology. Kier is still onsite delivering phase 2 of the works which includes the demolition of the existing school buildings and the construction of a new staff carpark. Throughout the project, Kier worked collaboratively with Kent County Council’s planning and heritage team to ensure that homage would be paid to the original school building which had stood strong for over 80 years. Hartsdown Academy is a 1,000-pupil secondary school for students aged 7-14-years. Kier constructed a brand-new three-storey teaching block, installed pre-fabricated modular building and demolished existing buildings on site. As part of the project, the Academy wanted to extend its science and music facilities, as well as expanding on support facilities for SEN students, students with hearing difficulties and those pupils reliant on ICT equipment for writing. To achieve this, Kier constructed specifically assigned SEN rooms and a hearing loop system; a specialised sound facility used by people who are hard of hearing. Additionally, there are now brand-new ICT spaces provided for students. Richard Bysouth, operations director at Kier Regional Building London and
South East, said: “We’re delighted to hand both projects over to the Department for Education and Kent County Council in time for schools to reopen on 8 March. Throughout the projects it has been a priority for us to support the local communities and we have been able to support a number of local people with employment and training opportunities, including five apprenticeships, and we have also worked with our specialist localised supply chain partners who are based throughout Kent. Working collaboratively with both the Department for Education and Kent County Council allowed us to deliver first-class learning facilities that will benefit pupils, their families and the local communities at both schools for years to come.” Paul Pollard, Head Teacher had Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School said: “We are delighted with our new school building and know that it will have a tremendous positive impact on both our students and staff. Throughout the process, from the hours pre-planning, design and FF&E, through to construction and completion, Kier offered constant support and guidance. Our Project Manager, Clive, was always available to answer our many questions and ensure we knew what was happening each step of the way. A build the size of ours can be very daunting when it is something so outside of our expertise, but Kier guided us through the process step-by-step, and we are very happy with how things have gone.” Maureen Igoe, Business Manager at Hartsdown Academy said: “The whole build process received at Hartsdown Academy has been professional and the standard of work outstanding. Added to this Kier went out of their way to involve both students and staff from start to finish even offering work experience placements to several students. “For the past 3 years the Kier team have been such a big part of Hartsdown and it has been a pleasure to work with them.”
WORK TO BEGIN ON EAST LEAKE AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT A housing association will start work on a social housing development in the Loughborough area next month. Platform Housing Group – which has its headquarters in the Midlands – will start work on 195 new homes on Lantern Lane in East Leake in April, the first time the social landlord has built in the village. The development will offer a mixture of affordable homes for shared ownership and rented units. The homes – which are due for phased completion from the end of this year through to 2025 – will be made up of one, two, three and four bedroom houses and bungalows, 103 to be let at affordable rents and 92 for shared ownership. The scheme – which is costing £42million - has been made possible by grant funding from Homes England, Recycled Capital Grants Fund and Platform Housing Group funds. Those involved in the new development include homebuilder Miller Homes, solicitors Gately PLC and Browne Jacobson and employers’ agent Richard Morris Associates. The site – which is a greenfield one – was granted planning permission earlier this month by Rushcliffe Borough Council.
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Project News WILLMOTT DIXON APPOINTED TO HELP KICK-START REIMAGINING OF BROADMARSH CENTRE SITE Willmott Dixon has been appointed by Nottingham City Council to prepare the Broadmarsh Centre site in the city centre for future development by knocking down the North West section of the existing half-demolished structure.
Ian Clyde, Area Development Manager at Platform Housing Group said: “These new homes will form a high quality and sustainable affordable housing development that meets the needs of local people, particularly people who cannot afford to buy properties on the open market. “We will work closely with the local council to ensure local people have access to these homes. We look forward to completion of the project and welcoming residents into their new homes.” Tom Roberts, Land Director at Miller Homes said : “We are pleased to be working with Platform Housing Group to bring much needed new homes to East Leake. As part of the plans for the development we will be making a contribution towards local transport, footpaths, healthcare, off site outdoor sports and local schools. We are looking forward to starting work on site next month on the new homes, which will feature a mix of one to four bedroom properties including bungalows.” East Leake – which has a population of around 7000 – is a large village and civil parish in the Rushcliffe district of Nottinghamshire, although its closet town and postal address is Loughborough in Leicestershire.
It comes after Nottingham City Council took control of Broadmarsh last year following the collapse into administration of intu, which was behind the original redevelopment plans. Now the council has secured £8 million from D2N2, the Local Enterprise Partnership, via the Getting Building Fund, along with a further £4 million from the Transforming Cities Fund, it has appointed Willmott Dixon through SCAPE, the UK’s leading public sector procurement authority, to demolish the remaining North West part of the former shopping centre. This will see the area from the NCP Arndale Car Park to the current covered right of way connecting Lister Gate and Collin Street demolished, which will enable a new and wider pedestrian street that improves the busy north-south route into the city centre that used by over two million people a year
of the shopping centre now rather than try to modernise and rebuild it. This removes part of the barrier the shopping centre created in the city centre and will be far more welcoming to residents, visitors and workers coming in to Nottingham than the current ‘patio doors. This first phase of demolition is the start of our plans to redevelop this area, opening up the city centre and extending the excellent new public open spaces being built on Sussex Street, Collin Street and Carrington Street.” Nick Heath, director of delivery at Willmott Dixon’s Nottingham office, said: “Reimaging the Broadmarsh space will be a critical factor in driving Nottingham’s growth for many years and we are delighted that our skills have been called in to play a part in this crucial next step. As a local business ourselves with an office close to the site, we’ll be ensuring that Nottingham-based businesses benefit from this work as we join forces with Scape to create a bright new future for the city.”
Nottingham City Council will also use the Getting Building funding to produce a new masterplan to transform the whole of the former Broadmarsh Centre, while a further £4 million from the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund will be used to create the new safe and attractive open street between Lister Gate and Collin Street that Willmott Dixon will also deliver.
The project has been procured through SCAPE Construction, a direct award framework designed to drive collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings. Mark Robinson, group chief executive at SCAPE, said: “The demolition of the remaining Broadmarsh Centre site marks the start of a transformative plan to regenerate the area and breathe new life into its surrounding communities. By accelerating the project through our framework, Nottingham City Council has been able to respond to intu’s collapse and plot a new course for the centre’s future.
Councillor David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “The Broadmarsh Centre is one of the largest regeneration areas in any UK city, and presents us with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to renew our city centre and our city’s character. It makes sense to take this opportunity to start to demolish this part
The combined experience of Willmott Dixon and the Council will ensure the area better serves residents and visitors whilst creating value for the local economy.
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.
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Construction in 2021 CHALLENGES FOR CONSTRUCTION IN 2021: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW AND HOW TO PREPARE From the introduction of the VAT reverse charge to Brexit, experts predict even more change in the construction industry this year. Specialists from Chartered Accountancy practice, Sheards Accountants look at some of the biggest changes and themes within the construction industry in the next 12 months. As well as how they might affect businesses and how accountants can support.
SKILLS SHORTAGE: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the construction industry was facing a skills shortage. Looking at construction output in the UK over the past 12 months, all construction work fell by 12.5% compared with 2019. This was the largest decline in annual growth since 2009 where output fell 13.2%. This decrease hints that the issue of labour shortage is set to continue into 2021. In November of last year, data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed that redundancies during the pandemic had resulted in the lowest number of people employed in the construction sector since 2013. However, with work now beginning again across many sites, it’s anticipated that more positions will become available. Kevin Winterburn, director at Sheards Accountants says: “The pause in training and completed projects in 2020 could mean that the skills shortage has worsened, with fewer trained individuals ready to enter the workforce. But businesses should be encouraged to think about the future and the role they can play in upskilling new workers in the industry.” “The government has recently announced a number of new grants and support measures which aim at supporting businesses to
employ new workers including apprentices. For many construction firms looking to grow their workforce in light of an anticipated pick up in work, making use of these new and improved schemes and grants could be a good way to strengthen their teams in 2021.
Firms should speak to their accountants about the schemes and how they can take advantage. VAT REVERSE CHARGE: HMRC’s new VAT domestic reverse charge for building and construction services came into effect on the 1st of March 2021. The reverse charge applies to all CIS registered businesses buying and selling construction services that are subject to CIS reporting, apart from those that are zero-rated, up to the point in the supply chain where the customer is the end-user. At this point, the normal reporting and collection of VAT resume. Where the reverse charge applies, rather than the supplier charging and accounting for the VAT, the recipient of those supplies accounts for the VAT. In practice, this will mean that where there is a chain of contractors/subcontractors working on a building project, for example, none of those entities will add VAT to their invoices, other than the main contractor who is invoicing the end-user of the property. One of the biggest challenges for businesses in the sector is cash flow and a recent survey revealed that 1 in 5 construction companies say cash flow is a constant problem, as well as 84% of construction companies reporting that they had problems with cash flow.
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Kevin comments: “With the new VAT domestic reverse charge from 1st of March 2021, we predict this could have a negative impact on the already stretched cash flow issues in the construction industry. “It’s important for firms to review their existing work pipelines and relationships in light of the change.“
IR35: The changes to the IR35 legislation come into effect on the 6th of April 2021. From this date, medium and large companies will be responsible for determining the employment status of any contractor and personal service companies (PSC). Essentially meaning that companies must determine if these workers are ‘inside’ or ‘outside’ IR35. This change means contractors and PSCs are no longer responsible for performing this assessment or for the potential tax or National Insurance contributions liability. The change to the legislation will bring the private sector IR35 in line with the public sector, which saw the same reform in 2017. Kevin adds: “In light of the upcoming change, we recommend undertaking a review of your contractors and PSCs, as well as your wider supply chain to ensure you are fully aware of your obligations and any liabilities in the event of non-compliance.”
BREXIT: One of the biggest challenges businesses will face in 2021 is Brexit. The end to the right to free movement and the introduction of a points-based immigration system could put an end to construction firms employing workers from the EU. Based on this, experts predict these changes could drive up the cost of labour by as much as 10%.
HIGH VIS ‘SUPER STRETCH’ COMFORT FROM ENGEL WORKWEAR A new range of high visibility, flexible workwear which stretches to follow the movements of the body giving maximum comfort in any work situation has been introduced by Danish workwear specialists ENGEL. Called ‘Safety - Super-Stretch’ the collection consists of a wide variety of garments with elastic fibres woven into a polyester and cotton mix; the strong yet extreme flexibility of the material allows each garment to return to its original shape thereby retaining all the inherent advantages of their design and style. Comfort as much as durable practicality is important to any wearer as not only does the high visibility workwear provide protection throughout the day or night, it also helps reduce tiredness, further minimising the risk of accidents.
friendly, ‘Sustainable-Safety’ version which incorporates 50% regenerated polyester fibres made from recycled plastic bottles; This method of yarn production with the brand name of ‘REPREVE©’ has been developed by Unifi, one of the world’s most advanced recycling centres; waterproofs, T shirts, sweatshirts and a zipped hoodie using the same material are also due to be added. 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
The ‘Super-Stretch’ collection, which includes high-vis ‘Safety’ work jackets, trousers, shorts and bib-overalls will also be offered during 2021 in an Environmentally
On top of this, Brexit could mean supply issues with construction materials. The EU/ UK post-Brexit trade agreement, which came into effect on the 1st of January 2021, introduced measures to ease restrictions on the flow of goods between the EU and the UK. However, increased customs checks, assessments, duties, and restrictions on products from outside the UK and EU could cause delays, shortages, and an increase in costs. The Builders Merchants Federation (BMF) has already warned that congestion at UK ports is affecting the availability of construction materials. It has also been reported that material prices are up 20% on certain products. Kevin says: “Now that the UK is no longer a member of the EU, it has lost access to the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF). Historically, these institutions have invested large amounts in major infrastructure projects and SMEs. This loss of funding could cause issues with the delivery of large infrastructure projects and start-ups in the UK.” “If your business moves goods between the UK and countries in the EU, you’ll need to follow new customs and tax rules due to Brexit. We understand this means a lot of changes, and HMRC can help you navigate with the SME
Brexit Support Fund. Firms should contact their accountants or HMRC directly to learn more about the available support.”
accountants to form a realistic time plan and look at work funding or grants that may be available to support these changes.
SUSTAINABILITY:
“To encourage capital expenditure and business growth, the government recently unveiled a new ‘Super Deduction’ tax relief. The idea is that companies will be able to claim a deduction from their tax bill if they invest in new plant and machinery for their business, which could help construction firms move towards a more sustainable way of working. Under the super deduction, you are allowed a capital allowance of 130% on your qualifying plant and machinery investments. We’ve developed a full guide to this new measure which you can see here.”
A critical issue that the construction industry has been facing in recent years, is adopting sustainable practices. This challenge comes with many areas for consideration, including the cost of changing ways of working to be more sustainable. The World Green Building Trends 2018 Smart Market Report revealed that almost 40% of UK firms reported affordability as the biggest challenge posed by adopting sustainable construction practices. Almost 50% stated that they expected green buildings to incur higher first costs. However, construction firms can also see cost savings by implementing sustainable methods such as reducing waste and increasing energy efficiency. Other benefits of sustainable building products are the increased demand for them in the market. Kevin says “In order for businesses to upgrade their tools or move to a more sustainable way of working they’ll need to think about cash flow and how much they can afford to invest. We would suggest working with your
Summarising the challenges facing the industry in 2021, Kevin Winterburn adds: “With new regulations and ways of working coming into play in 2021, the industry is set for another busy year. It’s essential for businesses of all shapes and sizes to understand how these issues and changes may impact them and speak to their accountants about how they can best prepare.“ To find out more about the challenges facing the construction industry in 2021, please visit https://www.sheards.co.uk/ news/sheards-blog/archive/article/2021/ March/the-biggest-challenges-facing-theconstruction-industry-in-2021
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